Celebrating the Joy of Teaching: Positive Experiences with Engaged Students
As an educator, it's important to acknowledge the good along with the bad, and today I want to highlight some of the wonderful experiences I've had with my students who have been a joy to teach.
These students are attentive in class and always come prepared with their materials. They show a great interest in learning and behave well in the classroom. Although they may be a little shy at times, they always try their best to participate in class discussions and activities.
One of the challenges I have faced with these students is their shyness when it comes to speaking. However, I have found that with encouragement and guidance, they have become more confident in their abilities. I make sure to provide opportunities for them to practice speaking in a safe and supportive environment. I always incentive them to participate in the English Corner activities, it is fun and can help them practice their speaking.
It's inspiring to see how these students have grown and developed over time. They take their studies seriously and are committed to their academic progress. They also demonstrate kindness and respect towards their peers, which creates a positive and welcoming learning environment for everyone. Since I am here in China for a few years, I have seem my students go on to live abroad and be successful in their pursuits, witch brings me a lot of satisfaction, some of the write me back and share their stories with me.
I always try my best, that is why I keep receiving messages like this one below:
Overall, these students represent the majority of my classroom and I am grateful for their dedication and enthusiasm for learning. As an educator, it's important to recognize and celebrate these positive experiences and continue to encourage and support our students towards success.
It's a well-known fact that bad things can happen to anyone, and sometimes they happen unexpectedly. However, there are instances where we knowingly put ourselves in risky situations by procrastinating and leaving things to the last moment. This is a common mistake that we all make, but it can lead to disastrous consequences if we're not careful.
Let's look at some examples of how putting things off to the last moment can lead to negative outcomes:
Missing a flight: Imagine you have an important flight to catch, but you decide to finish some last-minute work before heading to the airport. Unfortunately, you lose track of time and end up missing your flight. Now, you have to incur additional costs to book another flight, and you might also miss out on important opportunities that you were planning to take advantage of.
Late submission of assignments: As a student, you might have been guilty of leaving assignments to the last moment. However, this can backfire in many ways. For instance, you might have technical issues while submitting your assignments, or you might fall ill and not be able to complete the work on time. This could result in lower grades or even failure to complete the course.
Health problems: Neglecting your health can have serious consequences. If you delay going to the doctor for a check-up or ignore symptoms of an illness, it could lead to more severe health problems. It's always better to address health concerns early on rather than wait until the situation becomes critical.
Financial problems: Delaying paying bills or ignoring financial responsibilities can have serious consequences. It could result in late payment fees, penalties, or even legal action.
These are just a few examples of how delaying things can lead to negative outcomes. It's important to prioritize tasks and take action early on to avoid potential problems. This way, you can save yourself from a lot of unnecessary stress and problems in the long run.
As a personal anecdote, one time my kids were playing together, and one of them fell off the ground. He used some bad language and cursed his fate, but luckily, nothing was at stake, and we all ended up laughing about it.
As a final note, I would like to advise students not to leave their assignments until the last moment. As someone who assigns work to students, I know firsthand how important it is to start early and submit work on time. There are so many unforeseen circumstances that can arise, such as computer problems, internet dropping, or personal issues, which can prevent students from delivering their work. So, it's always better to stay ahead of the game and avoid the risk of such circumstances affecting your grades or academic performance.
Overcoming Challenges: A Personal Story and Lesson.
Let me share with you a story about my father, who was a successful entrepreneur in the computer industry. He had built his own company from scratch with a few more associates and together they were doing exceedingly well. Despite this, he received an unexpected invitation from a prestigious technology university in Londrina to teach a course in his field. Being the first expert in computer programming from outside the state capital, my father could refuse the offer because he did not need that job.
However, things took an unexpected turn when a student threw a paper at him while he was writing on the blackboard during the first semester. This incident left my father unable to identify the culprit, and as a result, he stopped writing on the board altogether. This led to students losing access to his notes, and it eventually led them learning every action has its consequences.
It's often said that "students have the teacher they deserve," implying that a teacher's effectiveness is a direct reflection of their students' attitudes and behavior. However, as a teacher myself, I know that this isn't always the case. Despite teaching in China for nearly five years and loving every minute of it, I've encountered a few classes that haven't quite lived up to my expectations. While these situations are few and far between, they can be just as challenging as the one my father faced years ago.
Here is some evidence of my challenge:
That's why I've decided to do something different for this class. I have a surprise planned for them in the next week class, and I'm hoping it will change their attitude towards learning. I'm excited to see the impact it will have on the class, and I'll definitely be sharing the results with you in a follow-up post. Stay tuned!
Join our English Corner to Improve Your Language Skills and Make New Friends.
Today marked the start of our inaugural English corner activities, and what an exciting time it was! It was the beginning of an exciting journey for all English language enthusiasts as our inaugural English Corner activities were held. It was an amazing experience filled with fun and excitement that left everyone with a smile on their faces.
If you are looking for opportunities to practice English, look no more! Our English Corner provides the perfect platform for anyone who wishes to improve their language skills. The activities are designed to be engaging and interactive, allowing participants to practice their English skills in a relaxed and informal environment.
One of the most significant benefits of attending the English Corner is that you get to make new friends and expand your social circles. It is a great way to connect with people who share similar interests, make new acquaintances, and strengthen existing relationships. The English Corner offers a diverse and inclusive community where everyone is welcome.
It is often said that this is where boys meet girls, and this is where girls meet boys. The English Corner offers a comfortable setting where participants can interact and get to know each other. It is a perfect place for anyone who wants to socialize and improve their language skills at the same time.
Learning is fun and engaging at the English Corner. The activities are designed to be informative, educational, and enjoyable. Participants are encouraged to share their opinions and ideas, which promotes a healthy exchange of knowledge and fosters intellectual growth.
Attending the English Corner is going to be one of your best memories from your college years. It is a fantastic opportunity to learn, socialize, and have fun all at the same time. You will make lasting friendships, improve your English skills, and develop a sense of belonging.
Lastly, attending the English Corner is how smart students improve their English without studying. The activities are designed to be fun and engaging, allowing students to improve their language skills without feeling like they are studying. It is an excellent way to learn while having fun.
I am not the organizer of today's English Corner activities, but I am pleased to announce that I have formed a WeChat group with almost 100 students who participated in the event. This group will serve as a platform for students to stay connected and engage with each other as they continue to improve their English language skills. As part of this effort, I also shared my book "The Key to Learn English" in the group to help students have access to valuable insights and practical tips that can aid them in their language learning journey. I believe that by sharing resources like this book, we can make the learning process more accessible and enjoyable for everyone involved.
In conclusion, our inaugural English Corner activities were a resounding success. It was an exciting experience filled with fun, laughter, and learning. If you are looking for opportunities to improve your English language skills, make new friends, and have fun, the English Corner is the perfect place for you. Join us, and you won't be disappointed!
Do Grades Really Matter in Job Interviews? What Employers Actually Look for
When it comes to job interviews, many candidates worry about being asked to show their grades or transcripts. It's understandable to feel anxious about this, especially if you didn't perform as well as you would have liked in school. However, the truth is that grades are rarely a significant factor in the hiring decision. What really matters to employers is whether you have the skills and experience necessary to perform the job.
Think about it: if an employer is hiring someone to speak English, they're not going to ask to see your grades in English class. Instead, they'll want to see if you can actually speak the language fluently. They may conduct the interview in English to assess your proficiency or ask you to demonstrate your skills through a conversation or presentation. The same principle applies to other skills and qualifications required for the job. Employers want to know that you can do the job, not just that you got good grades in school.
Of course, this isn't to say that grades are completely irrelevant. In some fields, such as academia or research, grades and academic achievements may carry more weight. However, for most jobs, experience and skills matter more than academic performance. In fact, many successful people have achieved great things despite not having a perfect academic record.
Consider the example of Steve Jobs, the co-founder of Apple. Jobs dropped out of college after just one semester and didn't have a degree or outstanding grades. However, he went on to become one of the most successful entrepreneurs in history. His success was based on his innovative ideas, entrepreneurial spirit, and ability to create products that people loved - not his grades.
So, if you're worried about being asked to show your grades in a job interview, remember that employers are more interested in your skills and experience. Focus on highlighting your strengths and achievements, and be prepared to demonstrate your abilities through examples and anecdotes. And if you didn't perform as well as you would have liked in school, don't let that hold you back. Your future success is not determined by your past academic performance.
As an educator, I strongly believe in creating a positive and supportive learning environment for my students. That's why I'm not harsh on my students when it comes to grading. Instead, I like to reward effort and hard work, even if the student doesn't get everything right. My principle is that if a student is trying their best, they're likely to improve over time. I also like to provide opportunities for students to volunteer in class and keep trying. I believe that if they take advantage of these opportunities and keep working hard, they will ultimately succeed. By creating a supportive and encouraging atmosphere in the classroom, I hope to help my students develop a growth mindset and the confidence they need to achieve their goals.
In conclusion, nobody ever asked me to see my grades in a job interview because what really matters is whether I can do the job. Employers want to see evidence of my skills and experience, not just my academic record. So, if you're worried about your grades, focus on developing your skills and showcasing your strengths - that's what will help you land your dream job.
In the post about Networking, I tell how I did find my job as a teacher in China, here is a clear example of what I just explain in this article, they ask me to teach a demonstrative lesson instead of asking me to see my grades.
Tips and Strategies for Learning Vocabulary Words in English
Learning vocabulary is a crucial part of learning any language, including English. Having a good vocabulary will help you communicate effectively and express yourself more precisely in English. In this post, we'll go over some tips and strategies to help you learn vocabulary words in English.
1) Read widely and regularly: Reading is an excellent way to learn new words and expand your vocabulary. Try to read a variety of materials in English, such as novels, newspapers, magazines, and online articles. This will expose you to different types of vocabulary, including formal and informal language, technical terms, and idiomatic expressions.
2) Use context clues: When you come across a word you don't know, try to understand its meaning based on the context. Look for clues in the surrounding words or sentences that can help you infer the word's meaning.
3) Keep a vocabulary journal: Create a notebook or use an app to record new words and their meanings. You can also include example sentences, synonyms, and antonyms. This will help you remember new words and review them regularly.
4) Use flashcards: Flashcards are a great way to practice vocabulary words. You can make your own flashcards with the words you want to learn or use an online tool. Review your flashcards regularly to reinforce your memory of the words.
5) Practice with exercises: There are many online resources that offer exercises and quizzes to help you practice and test your vocabulary. Some popular websites include Quizlet, Vocabulary.com, etc,
6) Listen to English: Listening to English is an excellent way to learn new vocabulary words and improve your pronunciation. You can watch English-language movies, TV shows, and documentaries, or listen to podcasts and radio programs. See my other post about using music to learn English and improve pronunciation.
7) Use apps: There are many apps available that can help you learn vocabulary words in English. Some popular apps include Duolingo, Babbel, and Rosetta Stone.
8) Practice speaking: Practicing speaking is crucial to building your vocabulary. Try to use new words in conversations with native English speakers or with other learners. You can also record yourself speaking and listen to the recording to identify areas for improvement.
Combining the first two tips, reading widely and regularly and using context clues, can be a powerful combination when it comes to learning vocabulary words in English. By reading a variety of materials in English, you expose yourself to different types of vocabulary, including formal and informal language, technical terms, and idiomatic expressions. And by using context clues to understand the meaning of unfamiliar words, you avoid the need to look the dictionary all the time, making the process less boring and more engaging. Looking the dictionary all the time can interrupt your line of thinking and that is not good, you may want to finish the chapter or page before you go back and see all the words you could not figure it out the meaning by the context.
Furthermore, the same words often appear multiple times within a text, reinforcing what you have learned and increasing your chances of remembering those words. A few minutes of reading every day can do wonders for your improvement, especially if you focus on materials that interest you and challenge you just enough to learn new words but not feel overwhelmed.
Reading widely and regularly, and using context clues to understand unfamiliar words can be a powerful combination for learning vocabulary words in English. This approach allows you to learn new words in a more engaging way, while reinforcing your knowledge through repeated exposure to those words within a text. By making a habit of reading a few minutes every day, you can make significant progress in expanding your vocabulary and becoming a more effective communicator in English.
In summary, learning vocabulary words in English requires regular practice and exposure to different types of language. Using a variety of strategies, such as reading, using context clues, keeping a vocabulary journal, using flashcards and apps, and practicing speaking, will help you expand your vocabulary and become a more effective communicator in English.
Memories of University Life: Working on Projects in Agronomy Enginering with Wonderful Classmates
One particular memory that stands out was working on a project related to topography. It was a challenging assignment, but working together as a team made the task much easier and enjoyable. We spent many hours in the field, taking measurements and recording data, and then spent even more time analyzing the results and creating our final report. It was a great experience, and I learned a lot about teamwork and project management during that time.
Today , I came across a group of students working on a topography assignment (you can see the measure equipment on the picture),and it brought back memories of my university days. It was great to see the younger generation working together and learning, just as we did all those years ago. Although I do not have pictures of doing the assignment on those days, I do have some images from my topography notebook, which I often look at to remind myself of those wonderful times.
Lastly, I would like to add that my classmates from university remain my close friends until today. Even though we have all moved on with our lives, we still keep in touch and reminisce about our time together. Being a university student was an amazing experience, and I am grateful for the memories and friendships that came out of it.
