So I was plesantly surprised today when I had my meeting with Emma about how I did during my classroom observation. She mentioned a few things that I needed to watch out for, but I already knew that I needed to improve in those areas. What I didnt' expect was a compliment! (apparently she doesn't give out a lot of compliments for some reason) She said that I didn't seem like a new teacher, but more like one who "has been teaching for 2 years". HA. I nearly fell out of my chair! That was the last thing I expected to hear from her. That was a slight exaggeration on her part, but I was just happy she wasn't mad! Its still so difficult to read the Korean staff. I have no idea where I stand with anyone.

So when she observed me during my Junior 1 class I was a lot more relaxed. The kids were great! It was as if they didn't even notice that she was there. A co-worker who has been here for 9 months said it was because the younger kids like to suck up to the Korean staff in hopes that they will tell their parents how well they did. Aww, they're cute!

Tomorrow I have another meeting with Emma, this time to discuss the students and their progress (or lack of), how they behave in class etc. Its too bad that I've only taught 5 days and I don't have a good enough grasp on how each student is doing so far! I can't even remember all their names. Luckily most of my kids have made up english names for themselves, but there are still a few that I can't even pronouce, nevermind remember... Han-seul, Chi-sok, Won-bae, A-ra, Ye-Ji, Gun Moo, Min-Ha, Eun-bi, Yong-hwan.....and the crazy thing is that the names are usually even longer. They just cut them down so its easier for us teachers I guess. I understand what Alex said about not really wanting them to have to change their names just for us, but man, let me tell you, it sure does help and if they don't mind, than neither do I! The funny part about their english names is that they choose them. Here are some of my faves : Buffy (yes, from Buffy the Vampire slayer) , Harry (he used to be K-2-the name of a gun apparently), Potter (yes, Harry Potter), Mars (I guess he really likes that planet!)