Tuesday, December 11, 2018
Week 13: SSAEM- Sharing Stories of Asia Pacific Education Movement
On 29th November 2018, I attended SSAEM- Sharing Stories of Asia Pacific Education Movement conference and participated as the presenter. I presented my project "Teaching English through Fusion of Malaysian and Korean Drama". I also get to listen to other teachers from Malaysia and other countries presenting and exhibiting their projects. It was fascinating to learn from them.
Week 12&13 : Alia's Korea-Malaysia Teacher Exchange Programme 2018
In week 12 and 13, cultural lessons and project was carried out. The project "Learning English through Fusion of Malaysian and Korean Drama" was carried out successfully.
The students paid attention and did carry out the activities very well. There
were few challenges in carrying out this lesson. First, is students had low
proficiency in English in terms of understanding the script and reading aloud.
Hence, it took some time to explain the lessons and practicing the script. They
were closely guided with translation, actions, pictures and videos. Moreover,
their team also helped them during their practice/rehearsal time by teaching
and correcting each other on how to read the script, in other words, peer
teaching. In the end, the students
understood well and able to read aloud well.
Another challenge was the
students had low self-confidence or were really shy to go to the front and
speak English. However, this was overcome as soon as they get to wear Malaysian
costumes and act out a story from a different country. They were excited to
experience, even just for a few minutes, how it is like to be a Malay.
Moreover, they were less scared as they were not alone and had to perform in
front of the class with their team members.
Overall, this activity has
given the opportunity to the students to practice speaking and reading aloud in
English. They have shown positive behavior in trying to speak English and they
were able to speak well. There is still room for improvement. I believe with
more practice, students can become better in English.
Moreover, analyzing 2
folklores has encouraged the students to be aware and analytical in comparing
values practiced by 2 different countries. Students realise the similarities
and differences of 2 countries and realise that as human, we practise the same
universal values, in terms of these folklores, children must always love and
respect their mother. Students were also amazed whilst discovering about
Malaysian culture,history and architecture. The students showed their
appreciation for the culture as they shown how enjoyable and excited they were
while wearing the Malaysian traditional clothing and learn few Malay words
while performing.
It is hoped that readers’
theatre is used by other teachers as an English teaching and learning technique
as it could provide opportunity to the students to use English orally and
increase students’ confidence to use English together with their peers as well
as allowing the students to discover and experience different culture. Hence,
students will start to have a wider view of the world and appreciate the beauty
of each culture.
Suggestions to enhance
students’ creative thinking skill are students could also do spontaneous
role-play presentation by giving them a picture and they create a story and
perform base on the picture. Students could also create a new story by
combining all the characters from different folklores from different country in
one story. Then, the students will start to pay more attention to each of the character’s
culture and think of a way to fi t them in one story.
In conclusion, this
project has proven that readers’ theatre is useful and effective to build
confidence in using English language orally. Moreover, it is beautiful and colourful that various cultures
were exposed through folklores and theatres to the students. With the awareness of the similarities and differences of
various culture, understanding, respect and harmony can be built through
communication. By using lingua franca, society can achieve an understanding
easily albeit the different views.
As an
educator, experiencing teaching students in another country makes me realize that
even though we are from different school in different countries, the challenges
in education is almost the same. I am glad to learn and exchange knowledge with
the teachers and students in the past 3 months and realize that we should
address educational challenges together and improve our global education in
order to create an advanced world nation together.
During the final week, the school brought us to an Educational Fair in KINTEX,Seoul. It was an interesting environment I get to experience. There were universities and colleges promoting their places such as medical, fashion, agricultural and aerospace. Each booth has different activities for children and teenagers. They get to build robot, structures,mathematics games, car models, airplane models and listen to short briefing. It was interesting.
Week 12
Week 13
Week 10&11 : Alia's Korea-Malaysia Teacher Exchange Programme 2018
The project has been carried out extensively this
past 2 weeks. Students had practiced the script and had rehearsal as a group.
Then, they presented the drama for scene 1 until 9. At first, the students were
shy and had low self-confident to present as they kept on mentioning that they
are not good in English. However, as a teacher, I told them to try and speak.
Then, I prepared for them costumes, which arebajumelayu, bajukurung and hijab.
The students got really excited to try one the outfit, be in character and
wanted to perform their best. By the end of the project, it
could be seen that the students were reading aloud, improving their
pronunciation, vocabulary, showing self-confidence and team work in using
English with their friends in front of the classroom. Post-test was given to
see the effectiveness of the activities. Results shown that they had improved
in their vocabulary as the number of students improved is more than 50%. Finally,
after this project ended, I have compiled all the activities and created a “Reader’s Theatre in South Korean Classroom: An
Exploration Of Malaysian-Korean Folklore”module
as part of “Global Citizenship in Education” initiative and material to be used
by teachers for future GCED drama lessons. It is beautiful and colourful that various cultures were
exposed through folklores and drama to the students. With
the awareness of the similarities and differences of various culture,
understanding, respect and harmony can be built through communication. By using
lingua franca, society can achieve an understanding easily albeit the different
views. As an educator, experiencing
teaching students in another country makes me realize that even
though we are from different school in different countries, the challenges in
education is almost the same. I am glad to learn and exchange knowledge with
the teachers and students in the past 3 months and realize that we should
address educational challenges together and improve our global education in
order to create an advanced world nation together. Besides project and lessons
in class, the school had given us opportunity to learn to take up ceramic lessons
and cjoined cooking academy: make cheese bread with the students. I learned
these skills and appreciate the art and knowledge in creating them. I would
like to expose my Malaysian students to these skills too. Next, the school also
had a school trip for us to Nami Island and rail bike. At the rail bike, we
experience the amazing view of Chun Cheon by cycling and the track had led us
to 3 creative tunnels, such as elf tunnel, bubble tunnel and music tunnel. I
was amazed by how creative the track was. Nami Island was amazing as it was
filled with beautiful nature. The students and I ate at a halal restaurant
there for lunch, hence the students were exposed about halal food through this.Next,I
am also amazed by the teachers’ team work as they had a small celebration and
foot soccer tournament to celebrate the vice principal’s homecoming. I really
like how simple it was as it does not consume other teacher’s time to prepare
the event but still able to gather theteachers.This is how to build the spirit
of teamwork. I also learned that the government provides fire mentainance check
twice every year. I was also lucky to listen to a career talk by Musical
theater production and watched them perform. I really admire that the way
teacher create programmes in school as it shows that the teacher treats
students like an adult by exposing them to serious content, such as career. Few
subjects thatI feel amazed about is technology and career subject. These
subjects allow students to explore the potential careers they can venture into.
Si Tanggang's Drama Project
Week 8 & 9 : Alia's Korea-Malaysia Teacher Exchange Programme 2018
Last
week,I was observed by APCEIU. I taught the students about ‘Kompang’, a Malay
hand drum and how to play it. The students enjoyed the lesson. After that, they
learned the song ‘lagu 3kupang’ and sang with my partner.Then,we played the
kompang and the guitar whilst the student sing the song. It was a good lesson.
Then, twostudents,my partner and I were interviewed by APCEIU.I was asked how
did I find teaching in Hong Cheon and what do I want to bring back to Malaysia.
Thisprogramme has broaden my horizon in terms of education system, especially how
Hong Cheon had shown efficiency in working,not wasting time as well as team
work among teachers, parents and students. They have shown me the significance
of having a supportive school that allows more programme to be able to carry
out smoothly and successfully. I also realise as a teacher, this programme has
encouraged me to keep on bringing the world to the students in the classroom,
either in HongCheon Middle school or SMK Taman Daya 2, Malaysian school. I would
like to keep on exposing to the students about differences and similarities
within various culture,religion and values that the world’s nation hold on to.
This will provide students with bird’s eye view of the world and teaching them
about understanding, appreciating and respect each other, showing to them potential
and opportunities what’s out there.Besides,last week, I joined School festival
and at the same time, my partner and I organized “Hong Cheon Malaysian Day”. The
poster and pamphlet were prepared by Hong Cheon Middle School beautifully and professionally.
Each department such as Mathematics department, Science department, technology
exhibit students’ beautiful work. Parents’ Teacher Association also had a booth,
selling tteoboki and other Korean snacks. There was also art booth where they
paint students’ cheeks. There was also traditional games going on. We also had
our 6 Malaysian friends came to Hong Cheon. Together, we set up a Malaysian
booth, exhibiting a banner, Malaysian flag, banner, information on comparison
between Malaysian and Korea, booklets,pamphlets,kompang,tiger,tampin, traditional
clothes and Malaysian food, roti jala and Malaysian curry. I taught the
students and teacher how to make roti jala and they tried to make it and eat
it. Students and teachers also tried Bajumelayu and hijab. We hoped that
our booth had given interesting input and view about how wonderful Malaysia is.
Then, in the afternoon, we performed traditional dance, kpopdance,sanga Malay
song and Kpop song whilst playing instruments. It was an amazing day to
introduce our culture. We also enjoyed Korean culture by watching the students,
teachers, principal and parents perform on stage. Students were playing
orchestra, playing the Beethoven with the piano, singing rap song,ballade song
and perform Kpop dance. At the backstage, students, parents, teachers and other
performers encouraged each other and said "fighting" and congratulated
each other after their performance. I also saw students performing. The
orchestra was majestic. They played avengers music with avengers video on
thescreen. Then there was a student who played piano beethoven perfectly. He
was skillful. Then there was Korean drum performance. It was amazing. Then,
there were group of students performing singing and rap song. Then there were 2
students and teacher perform kpop dance. The principal performed using
sexophone and showed our pictures in the background. Then,teachers and parents
also played sexaphone.It was amazing to see all of them working together,
giving a great performance. From everyone’s feedback, everyone enjoyed the
festival and the performance. They get to learn about Malaysian culture from
our performance and booth.Seeing students’ professional performance was
unbelievable. It felt like the teachers treat students like professionals and
produce professional product. After the festival, the schoolhad a sports’ day. The
sports were soccer ,futsaland foot volleyball. The tournaments are among
classes.I also had a chance to visit Special Education class. They explained
that the teacher attends to the student one at a time. A class only consists of
6 students. If the students are more, then they will create another classroom. In
their timetable, they will study in special education class as well as enter normal
class. They are encouraging the special students to mix witty other people.
They also have their own textbook for Hangeul, English and mathematics, but the
level is lower than actual grade. After that, we had a sharing session with the
principal. The principal is interested in saxophone. So he created sexaphone
club and invited teachers and parents into the club. They performed at school
festival! The principal explained that organizing school festival, sports day
and school excursion is to helpstudents to relax and explore their interest besidestudying.
Next day, it is the school trip day. All classes went out for school trip base
on the venue they choose with their homeroom teacher.This is an interesting
programme as it widens the students’ experience as well as bonding with each
other. Besides, carrying out my project plan is harder than I imagine as students
were a little passive and reluctant to come out to the front and perform drama.
However, I the project plan hasencouraged them to learn new vocabulary and
practice reading aloud when they were practicing their lines. Some were
inferior, saying they are not good in English, but encourage them to try. I had
2 presentation. I hope I will get more drama presentation next week.Based on my
conversation with a teacher about the school system, I learned that it is free
to enter Elementary and Middle school but students have to pay a little to
enter high school. Textbooks are given free to the students, but if they lose
it, they need to write a letter to get a new one. Students starts semester in
March and ends in July. Then they will have summer vacation. After that, they
start their second semester in August and ends in January. That will be the
beginning the winter vacation. Teachers are evaluated by other teachers and
students. I hope to learn more about the school system to comprehend the school
culture better. Lastly, I am also grateful that I get to experience in organizing
Malaysia Day in other school, that are Daeso Elementary and Seoul Technical
High School and we carried out various activities such as dancing,
cooking,playing instrument, trying out Malaysian outfit and accesories. I got
to experience communicating with elementary and high school students and
observe their school environment and culture.It was great!
Week 8
Week 9
Week 6 & 7 : Alia's Korea-Malaysia Teacher Exchange Programme 2018
There were few events happening these 2 weeks. I taught grade 1-7 and they were able to finish the
hands-on activity,that is making Malaysian Hat. They enjoyed the lesson. Then, I
was invited to have dinner with the principal and Parents-Teacher Association.
Meeting with parents was pleasant. We discussed about Malaysia and we discussed
about how determine Korean parents are in sending their children to academy
after school, ensuring thestudents achieve good results. They also explained
how supportive they were of the school and the students. They explained they
had a programme by having a market. By the end of it, they donated their profit
to the needies. This school has shown that parents support is important, making
a good team work among parents and teachers in school, create a very supportive
environment for school. Then, I went to Daeso Elementary School to handle
Malaysian Day. We had a tent and 2 tables and we prepared banner, flag,brochures
about Malaysia, tampi, Harimau, kompang, a plan and Kuihcincin. We had information
about Malaysia on the board too. Then, we handled the dancing session. Every 7
minutes, 20 primary school students will visit our booth.We taught them 2 types
of dance called Waubulan and Endang,After dancing, they visited our booth,
viewing our materials and enjoyed the snacks we served. We did about 15
sessions of the short dance. It was a great Malaysian experience for the young
students and they had fun! I was also glad to experience handling younger
students. I also learned Korean language,especially from Lina who was explaining
the dance stepsusing simple Korean.We worked together that day.Then, on 12thOctober,
I went to APCEIU for mid-term review. Listening to other teachers was very good
as I got to learn from other teachers’ experience as everyone went to different
school, learned new knowledge and comprehend everyone’s different challenges.
There were teachers posted in elementary school,midde school, high school and
even special needs school. It was amazing listening on how they handledsituation
and solved the problems. It was also inspiring to know, for example, in a high
school, students learned about filming from experts.I am very inspired that
Korean education system that expose students to advanced knowledge at school
instead of at university. Then, during some of my lessons, some of them did not
go smoothly as students were not focused to the class. Hence, I used a teaching
technique which is rhythmic clap. If they are not focused, I would
do the rhythmic clap and they would respond by continuing the clap.This is a
good and positive way to capture their attention instead of shouting their
name. I also have a quiz and reward and these help them to pay attention to the important key words
on that day. Moreover, some students were able
to complete the task given. My project plan also is in the first and second
phase, where students are in the process of understanding Korean and Malaysia
stories, characteristics, setting and exploringtypes of facial expression and intonation.
I am a bit worried if the students will be a bit shy for the next lesson, that
is reading and acting out the script. So, I will prepare a little reward and
assigned roles to the students to ensure they carry out their role properly.
Besides,I also ask the homeroom teacher, asking how the
school is managed if students have discipline problem in the class. She said,
first, the teacher will motivate the students to pay attention to class. If the
problem is serious, the student will be sent to the discipline department. Then,
they will call the parents and the students will be suspended.Students are not
happy when the teachers called parents, so they will try not to make any
discipline problem. The homeroom teacher also showed their roll call book. The
students’ name is typed only on the first page. Then, the teacher would only
note which student is absent. Then, the teacher would use the first 10 minutes
(9.00am) to share information or advice. The students also submit their
handphone to the teacher. There is no assembly. Then, at 3.20 pm, students are
on duty to clean up the classroom and on Friday, there are students assigned to
clean the corridor. I am glad to know this information as I learn that this
process is efficient and effective as well as instill the value of
responsibility to the students.On Wednesday until Friday, I joined multicultural club camp at National Youth
Space Centre, Goheung. I learned about this
small robot that is controlled by a software in the computer. At National Youth
Space Centre, students are taught to use the software and navigate these little
robots and the mission is to capture QR code on the wall using the little
camera on the robot. Students are also exposed to descriptions of stars
and planets using advanced technology. Students are shown an inspirational
video on teenagers creating a rocket. Then, they are shown a shuttle cock and
how it changes the direction when it is hit. The task they had to do with a
given shuttlecock and paper is they have to combine them and make the
shuttlecock only move in one Direction and bit change movement. This is to make
stuents think creatively and use physics and understand centre point and air
pressure related to the shuttlecock. I am grateful to experience this camp
as I get to see the facilitiers that Korean has to educate young generation and
how equip the facility is.
Week 6
Week 7
Thursday, October 4, 2018
WEEK 5, DAY 34: Alia's Korea-Malaysia Teacher Exchange Programme KOMTEP 2018
Today and yesterday are examination day for grade 2 and 3 students. Thus, the school arranged that the grade 1 students to go on a field trip today. Interesting process of examination here. This is my 3rd experience during the examination period.
First was English listening test. Second was English writing test. These 2 days is examination for all subjects. Hong Cheon Middle school has exam starting at 9am and ends at 12pm. Teachers would be invigilating the whole period and not base on the usual timetable.
After 12 pm, students could go home and rest. Teachers as well. So, yesterday, the school organized teachers' excursion after 12pm.
I think they are trying not to pressurized the students as examination is really hard. According to my mentor, each school has different arrangement on examination process.
These are my notes and thoughts on homeroom session and school system.
1. students on duty for the week must clean class at the end of the day. On Friday, they have to mop the classroom.
2. On Friday, there will be students assigned to mop the corridors.
3. Homeroom teacher has a register book where she would write all students name on the first page. Then, they would circle who is absent. They would not rewrite the names each month.
4. Students submit and retrieve their mobile phones at the beginning and end of the day and put them in a special handphone bag. The homeroom teacher would take good care of it.
5. Announcement is made by the homeroom teacher or the speaker. No assembly.
6. Korean flag is pasted in front of each classroom.
7. No record, but state the theme and topic taught in class everyday.
8. Grade 1 has no examination. They said Korean education system is trying to make Middle School as a period where children explore their interest and decide what they want to be in the future.
These are my observation in the school I am attending. It may differ to other schools, but I hope this is a good insight.
Overall, I find that the things done efficiently. Not wasting time but focus more on the big idea and purpose of schooling.
p/s: Today, 5th October, is my first birthday in Korea. All my colleagues did a great birthday videos and had a video call with dad. Life is kind and good :)
First was English listening test. Second was English writing test. These 2 days is examination for all subjects. Hong Cheon Middle school has exam starting at 9am and ends at 12pm. Teachers would be invigilating the whole period and not base on the usual timetable.
After 12 pm, students could go home and rest. Teachers as well. So, yesterday, the school organized teachers' excursion after 12pm.
I think they are trying not to pressurized the students as examination is really hard. According to my mentor, each school has different arrangement on examination process.
These are my notes and thoughts on homeroom session and school system.
1. students on duty for the week must clean class at the end of the day. On Friday, they have to mop the classroom.
2. On Friday, there will be students assigned to mop the corridors.
3. Homeroom teacher has a register book where she would write all students name on the first page. Then, they would circle who is absent. They would not rewrite the names each month.
4. Students submit and retrieve their mobile phones at the beginning and end of the day and put them in a special handphone bag. The homeroom teacher would take good care of it.
5. Announcement is made by the homeroom teacher or the speaker. No assembly.
6. Korean flag is pasted in front of each classroom.
7. No record, but state the theme and topic taught in class everyday.
8. Grade 1 has no examination. They said Korean education system is trying to make Middle School as a period where children explore their interest and decide what they want to be in the future.
These are my observation in the school I am attending. It may differ to other schools, but I hope this is a good insight.
Overall, I find that the things done efficiently. Not wasting time but focus more on the big idea and purpose of schooling.
p/s: Today, 5th October, is my first birthday in Korea. All my colleagues did a great birthday videos and had a video call with dad. Life is kind and good :)
WEEK 4&5, DAY 23 - 34 : Monday, 24th September 2018 - Wednesday, 5th October 2018
This is the summary of my learning experience in Korea for week 4 and 5 in visual form. Learning happens throughout my stay, not just in school, but through discussions with teachers, students, locals and Malaysian colleagues. More future activities to come!
word of wisdom from my brain
I realize and learn….it is not about you are the
best. Because everyone is the best in their own way. Everyone is the winner in their own way. They dealt with what they need to deal with, so they are winners! So, all you got to do to survive in this world is be the best version of yourself. I don’t like
competition.so be the best based on my own standards is the best way to live peacefully :)
p/s: somehow, surroundings judgement still affect you, but take it as learning experience, not as a standard to be compared to.
p/s: somehow, surroundings judgement still affect you, but take it as learning experience, not as a standard to be compared to.
Week 5, Day 33 : 4th October 2018
I am utterly grateful with class 1-7 today. I was excited to start my drama project and lesson with the students, but when I arrived, I saw on their table they had my last week's flag project! the white and red stripes. oh, they remembered! I was glad I brought sweets in my pocket. I could reward them for participating. Everyone participated well! Everyone was able to produce the Malaysian hats and at last, I got to take pictures with them! I was so thankful to God for sending the technology teacher to always observe and control my class. I am also thankful for the students' enthusiast. I postponed my drama project as I could see their eagerness to complete the Malaysian hats. I hope in the future, they will enjoy my drama project.
Then, on that day,Grade 2 and 3 were having examination and ended at 12 pm. After that, they could go home. Iwant to ask the teachers why next time. Then, the teachers went out for an excursion. We went to the contryside, had lunch (vegetable and rice), then we did "suspension adventure rope course". It was crazy and increadible!!!! I was scared of heights. Ifelt like crying, at the same time, I just kept walking and pray that I will be safe. Walking on it felt like exercise as I had to balance and pull myself up. I think I enjoyed balancing myself but I seriously did not like the heights. When I did the flying fox, I almost gave up. I went back and felt like I want to take off my clip. But in the end, the instructor pushed me and I did not look to the front. The other female Korean teachers were not making any sounds. I could not help myself but scream!! haha. This is going to be one and last time.
But I realise doing this, I was able to share how scared I was with other teachers. Ryan and Kim songsannim explained how to walk and handle the gears and the female nurse and teachers just kept motivating each other. I learned that to be in a good relationship with your colleagues, I think this kind of activity is needed to bond ourselves in other ways, because we may not be able to bond due to different subject or different working area, but, through this activity, we could connect with one another through feelings, and from here, we would see the other side of the person that maybe, we could have a better conversation with that person, better yet, better friendship.
This makes me reflect on how teachers in Korea talked to each other.It is in their culture to always greet each other by bowing their head a little and said anyohasayo, and when they said goodbye, they would say anyohegesayo (i am sorry if i am spelling it wrong) and also choshimhassayo(take care) or kapshida (let's go). so, this nature of being polite makes the environment is always in a polite situation. it is beautiful and calm working culture indeed.
I was glad to have a great conversation with an English teacher, who is very much interested in observing culture and places. We shared the same interest, hence we discussed about education system, world culture, documentaries and movies. It was fun and I am looking forward for future conversation with her.
I also saw the principal was choosing who he would like to pour drinks to. The eldest would pour drink to the young ones and the young ones would bow and said thank you, kamsahamnida. this is like saying that the elder is giving blessings to the young ones, hence, creating a respectful environment. everyone is doing something in return. pouring, bowing. it is very good.
WEEK 4&5, DAY 23 - 32 : Monday, 24th September 2018 - Wednesday, 3rd October 2018
Today,
I tried my project with grade 1-2. It was haywired. Why? First of all,it was an
abrupt change, from a lesson to project. So, in my mind, I am thinking how to
speed up my prject, at the same time, I need to teach step by step to help the
students understand better. In the monerning, I came early to school to print
and cut the papers but in the end, because I was so haywirde, I could not go
through the process of the lesson step by step. So,when I was in class, I could
not carry out the lesson systematically. It was here and
there.
Students may not be able to see the continuation of it all. So, next class, I
will do it step by tep. First, pre test, next vocabulary, next video, then,
rearrange story, then moral values.maybe that’s it for today. Try next
class…try try. I also realize these students need more help with viocabulary
because they are grade 1. So, I must add the vocabs for the young graders.
I
entered second class for Tuesday, 1st graders. I was co-teaching
with an English teacher. She was helpful as she explained when students could
not understand my instructions. She also helped in correcting my Korean
translation. Students paid attention and tried their best.
After
3 weeks in Hong Cheon, I realize, teachers’ work ethic is really high. They
would get to class on time and elave on time, modeling to the students to be
punctual too whilst not taking their precious time. Students would also be back
in class on time to start the class. Students are also determine in their stiry
as they would onctinue going to stody at extra tuition acadmy out of school.
Students also keep on nurturing their interest, for example, they play magic
tricks or drawing or foot volleyball practice and keep on practicing during
recess or after school programme. I also notice the working and documenting
process is done efficiently. For example, the register is written only once at
the front and students are marked only based on their absentise. Then, students
does not have exercise books but they have handouts,givne by their teacher. The
teacher would also carry out experiements in class by demonstaringt if the
science experiments could be done fast. So, students get to learn more.
I
am also amaze at how responsible the students are in keeping the class and
school corridor clean. Everyday, at the last period they ouwld have 10 minutes
cleaning time. Then, on Friday, the students on duty would mop rooms and
corridors.
Patriotism
is essential in korea, throughout education as well as around areas.graceful
and good etiquette is also important as I notice Koreans are much quieter and
always greet each other and have high value of seniors.
My
Korean mentor, Yenny is very helpful. She is not good English but she is determined
to improve. My partener and I area also determine to learn Korean language, be
it reading and orally. So, we always exchange information about language and
culture. She teaches us how to say phrases and reading and I would help her
with English words and explains Muslim and Malay culture, especially since I am
wearing hijab. I am glad I am in the school wearing hijab,especially for
students. I want the students to understand that the world is filled with
various types of people, culture and religion. I want them to get used to
it and be aware and understand the
existence of different culture and places and not be too shock to see different
people and culture.
Last fortnight, I went to Seould
during Chuseok Holiday. I saw on television where family went back to their
hometown, visiting families as well as visiting graves. Some went to
Gongbeokgung palace or other famous places to celebrate by playing games and
looking at the full lunar moon. It was very festive. On Tuesday, I went to I
went to Gongbeokgung palace.itwas free to enter the palace that day. Many
people were wearing handbook and taking pictures. Family came and enjoyed the
day.
Last weekend, my mentor, Yenny,
brought me to Seoul for Hanbook and Korean experience. We visited Gongbokgeong
Palace. Yenny had taken for us an English guide to explain about the history of
the palace. The guide was informative as tehey shared about the decoration of
the palace paintings, such as the sun and moon represent queens,and the number
of claws on the dragon, the meaning of them, the function of fireplace under
the palace which explains the floor heating in Korea and the importance of
having clean floor, the function of each building, the king’s place, work
place, meeting place, sleeping place, wives’ rooms and garden. Then, we stayed
in a traditional house. I love it as I get to learn little details about the
house like they used charcoal to make sure the air is clear and there were duck
decorations where it explains to have a good wedding life. Then there was open
rooftop with chairs.the staff explains that the alley beside the guest house
was from KDrama “goblin”. The next day, we walked around Samchondong area,
observing the traditional residential area. It was amazing.we went to the
observatory and saw the Blue house where the president is and see the
mountains. Then, we went to a traditional knot-making-craft. I crafted a
dragonfly keychain knot. Then we ate Korean noodle and Korean vegetable. We
also went to Namsan tower. It had an amazing view of Seoul city, mountains and
Han river. We also saw buchechum dance there, and the dancers are elders but
they were very professional. Then they dance using Hyangbal, a small clinking
music instrument. It was very inspirational and graceful. It was beautiful experience. It was amazing to learn about the history of
another country as it shows the beauty of the country and how the country work
hard to make it properoous.The architecture of the palace and the traditional
house was majestic and increadible as how beautiful the designs were and how
strong the wood and bricks are.
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Tuesday, September 25, 2018
WEEK 3, DAY 20: Friday, 21st September 2018 Alia’s Korea-Malaysia Teacher Exchange Programme
Today, we observed an art class for grade 3 students (15/16
years old). The teacher was teaching students how to draw a moving picture. The
teacher showed videos of examples how picture moved. Then, the students started
making storyboard and drew. They were creative and talented as they drew
beautiful pictures. One student drew Alice in Wonderland, chasing the rabbit.
One student drew princess. After the class, I asked the teacher whether will he
teach students to use software to make moving animation. He said he will use
Movie Maker to teach this. My partner and I were amazed how fast they learned
to use creative software.
After that, I had a
multicultural class. I started to carry out my project plan, that is LEARNING
ENGLISH THROUGH DRAMA. I gave a pre-test on vocabulary before they watched the
video. Then, I showed a short folklore story on the ‘”Disobedient Frog”, a
Korean folklore. Then, together with the students, we listed outthe characters
and their characteristics. I was glad students were able to respond. Then, I
showed 3 types of videos of Si Tanggang, a Malay folklore. Again, we listed the
characters and characteristics. Then, students were given van diagram and they
started to compare the characters. Mother Frog and Si Tanggang’s mother, the
frog son with Si Tanggang. It was a pleasure to see students were able to
compare the characters as they saw similarities and differences between the
characters.
After that, we discussed about the setting of place in Si
Tanggang. First is it happens in Malaysia. I showed the traditional Malay
House. Then, we decided there is a ship.. We watched a short clip of Pirates of
Carribean.
Then, we practiced facial expressions. Students showed the
feeling of anger, sadness, happy, confused and surprise.
Overall, I am really glad I am able to start my project. I
hope next week, I could start showing the Malay clothing and script.
Today, I am really happy I get to teach the students
directly. Mr Kim was really helpful translating certain words. Some students
were attentive. They were more attentive when I showed interesting videos.
Overall, they could get distracted sometimes but they are kind and focus when
needed. I hope I could handle the class again next week.
WEEK 3, DAY 19: Thursday, 20th September 2018 Alia’s Korea-Malaysia Teacher Exchange Programme
It was 9 am. Students had English written test in 10 minutes
and they are very focused memorising how to write in English to introduce
themselves.
We observed 2 classes today.
First is History lesson. The content of the lesson is very interesting. The
topic was about French Revolution. The lesson was taught in Korean of course,
but I recognised the year as the teacher mentioned “Marie Antoinette” and
“Napoleon”. The teacher used pictures and informs the students thoroughly on
French History. Most students paid attention,responded and understood the
lesson. I am amazed with the History
syllabus as students’ as young as 15 years old (Korean age) are learning about
Europe. When I asked the teachers, they said that history is taught based on
years. So, for example in the year 1880, the syllabus explains about what
happen in Korea, Europe, Asia during that year.
Then, we observed Music class. The teacher introduced
students to various types of instruments using Youtube. The teacher chose
interesting performance, such as performance by deaf musicians and autisme.
Besides, the teacher also showed celesta, which is rarely known. Then, the
students filled in a handout given on descriptions of instruments and which one
they like. This has proven that types of videos that we show to students played
a big part. They showed videos that teaches students to have big dreams.
Moreover, the way they handled the lesson is by showing videos or experiment
that could explain a lot, in other other words, short demonstaration but means
a lot to the students.
WEEK 3, DAY 18: Wednesday, 19th September 2018 Alia’s Korea-Malaysia Teacher Exchange Programme
I realised that students can play during play time in the
morning, before school starts and during recess time. In the morning, there is
also reading time at the library. Students are given choice to play or go to
the library to read books.
Then I saw the homerorom teacher of 2-4, Miss Moon, has a
roll call book or register. The Register only write name once and mark students
who are absent. It is also being keyed in online.
We observed a Korean language lesson. Some students were a
little sleepy as it was already afternoon. I saw the teachers being very
patient in the class, not shouting at sutdents, even reprimand them in a way
that does not make them sad. All the teacher asks them to do is stand up at the
back for awhile until they are fully awake. Students even stand up and go to
the back willingly.
A student told us that they received textbook from the government
for free. Based on observation, teachers also received digital textbook and
textbook. So, most teachers we observed will show the textbook on the
television screen provided in each class.
WEEK 3, DAY 17: Tuesday, 18th September 2018 Alia’s Korea-Malaysia Teacher Exchange Programme
The first class we observed is a History class. The books is
very interesting as it contains history on old and royal government. The
teacher used digital textbooks and show it to the students while explaining.
Then, the teacher showed a historical
movie and everyone focused on the movie. Then, the teacher gives a handout
where students have to complete in groups of 4. The students were competitive. I
observed at the textbooks and they have cute cartoons.
Then, we entered social studies class, teaching Ethics. The teacher
showed a video on previous warriors who had fought for Korean Independence.
Many classes are showing to the students videos of previous
Korean history, instilling value of patriotism.
Then, during recess, a student came to our place and start
drawing Malaysian Airlines and finished it. While other students were playing a
similar game to “Batu Seremban”.
After that, our mentor, yenny, brought us to Agriculture
School. We were amazed with the school equipment eventhough it was just a short
visit. There were huge green house filled with plants. Then, there were teacher
and students handling the tractor. I was amazed how real-life-like the lesson
was.
Then, we arrived at the place where they collect eggs. Agriculture school
really focused on real-life skills.
WEEK 3, DAY 16: Monday, 17th September 2018 Alia’s Korea-Malaysia Teacher Exchange Programme
Today, I observed an
English classroom, Mr Kim. The teacher teaches English grammar in complex
sentence construction “so that”. He explains in Korean, translates and give
example in English. Then, finally, he gave handouts for students to construct
sentences.
During English class, the teacher gave few minutes for
students and us to get to know each other better. First, my partner and I,
Malaysian teachers introduce ourselves, and answer questions students asked.
Then, they asked about my head scarves. Why am I wearing
hijab? What is that for? So I explained that it is God’s instruction in Islam
and I am a Muslim.
Next, they asked about where is Malaysia on the map. We
explained it is beside Singapore and Thailand, or Taeguk as they said.
Suddenly, a boy said “Dokdo Island”. My partner knew about this issue and she
talked about the same thing happen with Batu Putih. Dokdo Island is claimed by
Korean and Japan, while Batu Putih is claimed by Singapore and Malaysia. I am
glad we were given this opportunity. We get to explore and understand their
curiosity that they have about us and we get to clarify them. Moreover, we also
get to bond by talking to each other. I really hope I get to make a positive
and harmony bond between me, as a teacher, and them, the students. I hope they
can see me as one of their teacher.
Next, we observed a lesson learning Korean language or
Hangeul. It was interesting as by the end of the lesson, the teacher shows a
video on a man who is trying to earn money for his family in Korea during
Vietnam war. Eventhough it was animation, I was touched by the difficulty
people faced. I realised, while teaching the language, the teacher had
indirectly depict the culture as well as instil the value of patriotism,
appreciating the difficulties faced by previous generation within the students.
Later, we went to the Health room. My friend felt
uncomfortable with her legs after we walked around Seoul during the weekends.
It was a good opportunity to talk with the school nurse. School nurse is a
professional nurse, posted in schools around Korea. They teach students about
Health Education and provide small treatment on injuries and light sickness.
The health room also has proper equipments like in the hospital
and clinics.Then, I asked if the hospital come to school and give free
injections to the students. The nurse says the students get free injection at
government hospital themselves.
It is amazing to know that Korea equip their school with
professionals.
Thursday, September 13, 2018
Week 2, day 13, 14 SEPTEMBER 2018, FRIDAY
In the morning, as I entered the school, I saw 2 high school
teachers asking students to be fast to school while clapping hand. The teachers
look very positive.
Every morning in school, they switched on a tune. Monday untuil
Wednesday would be soft classical melody. Thursday and Friday will be KPOP
song. The teacher says the boys like girls’ song ins tead of boy band. They are
funny, but having songs create a peaceful environment. I asked the principal
why there is songs, during English listening exams intervals and before school
starts. He says is to help students relax and be less stressful.
Our mentor, Yenny, informed us that we are in Hong Cheon’s
newspaper, explaining that we are here to share Malaysian culture with Hong
Cheon Middle School. We were speechless.
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Then, we observed our mentor’s class, Chinese character
lesson. She was teaching how to write the name of the Chinese years. What I find
interesting is she used an interesting Youtube video about astronaut and showed
it to the students. This opens to the students’ mind.
We observed Physical Education class for grade 1-8 According to our conversation with Mr Ingil,
P.E teacher, every grade will learn and practise different sports. The students
warmed up using a set of choreographed moves. According to the teacher, the
choreograph of the warm up is known by all teenagers in Korea. It reminds me of
Japanaese drama “My Boss My hero” where they have to do warm up and say “Agnes!”.
I like the moves as it helps the students practice their motor skill for
complicated movement. They also warmed up by squatting and jumping. Then, they
practiced playing basketball by throwing the ball to each other as well as
bouncing the ball and move towards their friend and circle around their friend
and coming back to their place. After that, they had short competition where
they bounced the ball to the cone and coming back to the line. If their group
get to do it fast, they win. It looked fun! It is very refreshing to see this
as I am not used to various ways and fun in practising basketball.
Week 2, day 12, Thursday, 13 SEPTEMBER 2018
As I climbed up the hill, I saw a familiar smile. It was the
grocery store’s son. He smiled and I waved back. Actually, I met him 2 days
ago. I was scanning the vegetable at the grocery store and he came and shoueted
“Asalamualaikum!”. I was shock! I asked how did he know and he said he was
exchange student from UPM for 6 months. He mentioned about Mee goring , nasi
goring and even recommended ‘Iced Nescafe”, saying it tastes like the ais! It
was cute.
It was my second time entering
homeroom class. Homeroom teacher enterd the classroom at 9.00am-9.10am and
3.20pm-3.40pm. At first, I only introduced myself. Then, I teach them how to
start a Malay conversation, that is “Apa Khabar”, “Khabar baik” , “dah makan?”,
“belum”.
I discovere 2 interesting Korean stationery.
First is the chalk holder. So, teachers hand won’t be white because of holding
a chalk. Second is the duster. The duster needs to be wet to clean the
backboard. Even the board is different as in we cannot wipe the chalk off with
our hand. To make the duster wet, there is a special container to wet the duster.
Interesting items!
I learned that there is a sports names Foot Volleyball. The students played like volleyball but only with foot.how cool is that!and Physical education teacher know what is sepak takraw too. I was surprised!
I learned that there is a sports names Foot Volleyball. The students played like volleyball but only with foot.how cool is that!and Physical education teacher know what is sepak takraw too. I was surprised!
I observed Korean, Science,
Maths. In the first class, I was surprised as a student had printed out list of
malay greetings that he searched from the internet. It is so cool as student
had interest to search about Malaysia. I am very touched.
Then, in Science class, the
teacher used a famous and funny Youtube video that showed a teenager making an experiment, which is another
cool point. I realise choosing an interesting and eye catching video helps the
students to be attentive. This teaches
me that the choice of interesting video is important. Moreover, I think
they carry out experiments very quickly by using the videos.Then, in Maths class,the teacher is teaching ‘probability’.
The teacher plays kai-pai-puk or hand scissors stone or obejus to teach maths.
So far, base on today observation, teachers and textbook use daily activities
and students' games as the idea of the content in their teaching.
Based on our observation in a Korean language class, the teacher is teaching Korean language using literature setting during old times. Indirectly, this is teaching the value of appreciating the difficult times.
Based on our observation in a Korean language class, the teacher is teaching Korean language using literature setting during old times. Indirectly, this is teaching the value of appreciating the difficult times.
We also flip through the textbooks. We noticed that the way they introduced a certain topic is by talking about daily life experience. For example, in science, a picture of mother cooking and the pan is hot and the son came and touch the pan. Another example is in maths book, where there is a picture of a mountain and mathematics theories on calculating the height of mountain is shown on the picture. Relating real life to content will make it relevant why students have to learn in school.
There was also surprising incidents
throughout the day. One student had printed out from the internet lists of
malay words. So,suddenly, he was saying to me, Selamat pagi. Nama saya Lee. ON
em more student is tremendously interested in aeroplanes and fast cars. He drew
them very well. I told him about Malaysian Airlines the day before. And today,
he showed me a picture he drew of Malaysia Airlines in KLIA! Never thought that
our presence would make such an impact in their heart.
Week 2, Day 11, Wednesday, 12 SEPT 2018
I entered a technology laboratory,
observing a grade 1 class. The teacher started the class by ringing a small
bell to get their attention. Students start working on building their model
house.The teacher prepared the plan and the paper and students have to cut the
pieces out and paste them according to plan until it becomes a model of a
house.
Personally, I think the design
given was a little bit intricate, given that the shape is different from one
another. The houses looks like a castle, house with small and big squares. I am
of the opinion that it is good because it tests their motor skill as well as
their visual intelligence, testing to what extend they can make sense of a plan
and structure. This is good as this could give a snapshot of an architect to
the students. Plus, during the process, they could think of what elese they
could build. Hence, this is encouraging creative learning.
Today is the listening test. 3rd grade students
are having listening test. The listening test is using American English and
there is a short happy melody in between followed by Korean instruction.
Topic:
1.
Discussion what to write in school newsletter
and deciding to interview an art teacher
2.
Discussion on which society to enter for
extracurricular activity
3.
Dinner reservation
4.
Discussion on good website reference
5.
Discuss on where to buy a good speaker
6.
Short conversation of asking and answering
7.
Discussion about holiday
8.
Mother asking the son to buy grocery items
9.
Meeting a friend in Busan
During Physical Education observation, I get to learn an new
game called “Foot volleyball” or “cokker”. They have to kick the ball over the
net. It looks similar to takraw in Malaysia, bit Takraw’s net is higher and the
ball is made out of rattan.
Then, we observed an English class. It was taught by a
foreigner from the US, Mr Ryan. He was carrying out a speaking lesson:
“What do you think about (experience)”
“it was
(adjective)”
“I think A
is better than B”.
Some
students responded but some played around. Mr Ryan called out that boy’s name
and asked him to try what is on the board. The teacher handled the situation
well without shouting. Then, Mr Ryan gave an exercise on writing the sentences
with answers.
I had a chat
with Mr Ryan about English taught in HongCheon middle school. Foreign teachers
are considered as assistant teacher and another Korean teacher need to be in
the class. The function of the Korean teacher is to clarify to the students
some words they do not understand, as well as making sure they could give
instruction during emergency.
Foreign
teachers also only teach speaking and listening while Korean teachers teach
grammar, reading and writing. Hence, the classes are taught by 2 teachers.
In the
evening, the principal vice principal, academic director and all faculty
leaders had dinner with us. They welcomed us with warm smile and toast with
joyful speech. I had to give a speech too, and I mentioned how wonderful they
were who have accepted us with lots of sarang, love.
The principal said he believed we are the best teacher in Malaysia and
the best teacher in Hong Cheon middle school.
From the first day, they have found for us the best rent house with extra room,miss yenny brings us on a trip to
Sutasa temple, and later, we are going to Seoul to wear Hanbook at a palace.
How amazing is that! They have showered us with lots of love, and now, we felt
in debt that we have to give a lot back. Hong Cheon middle school! Sarangheo!
Maybe this
is a very good diplomatic way of doing things. Shower your colleages with good
things, believing that they will do good things as well.
Week 2, Day 10, Tuesday, 11 SEPT 2018
We roamed around the school to check out the facilities.
There were school library, computer room, science room, technology room,
cafeteria, health room, 3 staff rooms, court, broadcasting room, music room and
gym. There is also area for talent show.
I observed a society learning Korean drum. Female teacher is
teacher is teaching and students are doing it wonderfully. Kaja kaja kaja
kaja…. Meaning faster faster faster.
Yesterday, I requested a Korean-vietnamese student to show
me his taekwando moves. I ended up follow his moves. The move or taegyuk looks
similar to Malaysian syllabus. I am very proud that the student is brave to
show his move. I am glad that I get to celebrate his talent.
WEEK 2, DAY 1 AT WORK , Monday,10 SEPT 2018
Sunshine greeted my friend, Lina and I as we climbed the
hill towards Hong Cheon Middle School, our new work place. We will be teachers
for 3 months in this school. There was only butterflies in our stomach.
From afar, we heard the song “Rasa Sayang” and a banner
“SELAMAT DATANG” with Korean and Malaysian flag side by side. Students were
standing both on left and right, waving Malaysia and Korean flag. My heart
leaped with joy and surprise as I saw how welcoming they were to us. The teachers
gave us a bouquet of flowers and we took picture with the Principal, Mr. Choi,
Ms. Yenny,our mentor, Mr. Kim, teachers and students.
Then, we went to the staff room. Yenny introduced us to the
teachers. We gave a short speech, introducing ourselves, why we are in Korea
and how grateful we are. All teachers were giving a warm welcoming smile. After
our short 10 minutes welcoming session, school began.
Teachers went to class. We were brought to our staff room
and our desks. We sat beside Yenny. We met the principal personally . He
briefed us about the school background. The consist 71 stafff dab 600
Thye have close relationship with teachers.
Hong Cheon Middle school is very attentive with their
multicultural students. The school organized special programmes for
multicultural students (students whom family from other than Korean).
Every 5 years must change school. To be a librarian must
have a licence.
Week 1, day 8: Sunday, 9 SEPTEMBER 2018
Today, Yennny brought us to Sutasa Temple at Gongjak Han.
Gongjak means peacock. Han means mountain. It was full of green of forest and
there were people going there to hike. There were temples, a park, pond willed
with lotus and a clear crystal river. It
was serene!
There were art exhibition in the temple area and we observed
the traditional design of the temple and a bell. We were served hot tea and
rice cake (tteok) by Yenny’s friend who was a tea–making teacher. Yenny was
helping her friend serving Darjeeling tea to visitors. We roamed around the
area, appreciating God’s beautiful nature and silence. In the afternoon, we had
vegetarian lunch. It was delicious. Then, we helped Yenny and her friend
cleaning the tea cup. We washed it in 2 basin. Once to soak, the other to
rinse. Then, we dried them up. We had to do it fast if there were many
visitors.
Later, we went around to capture some moments and memories. Then,
we ate ice cream with our mentor by the stream. It was peaceful.
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