Yvonne's Class

I created quite the stir when I walked in the door behind Yvonne. We agreed I would watch her 1st two classes. They are different from what I’ll teach – vocational students while I will have comprehensive students. The difference is my students will be aiming for higher education and hers are learning a skill in order to enter the workforce.

I hadn’t even considered the response to my presence. During student teaching I would simply sit in the back of the room. There would be some questioning stares, but nothing like this. You would think it’s something special – an American in the class. Oh wait, it is.

I started out at a student’s desk, but Yvonne had me come to the front when she introduced me to the class. They bombarded me with questions (after figuring out how to say them in English) and then had me sit front and center. Lovely.

They asked all kinds of questions, including “Will you marry me?” So there! I’ve had a marriage proposal. :) I just laughed, and maybe shook my head no. They asked how I like Taiwan, how old I am (I wouldn’t tell) and if I like Taiwanese boys. (Resulted in another chuckle from me and a resigned nod.)

One girl wanted my nose, another wanted my legs, and another loved my eyes. She stared at me for a good 5 minutes. It was weird. One boy in the back was staring and smiled each time I looked his way. He was the one who proposed, I think.

They also asked how tall I am. Then they had Yvonne and I stand next to each other. I was obviously taller (nearly a full head and she had heels on). Then they had a kid in the class come to the front. As he walked up I could see he was the winner. He stood next to me and I looked up. (You know, that may be the first time I’ve done that since arriving here :) The class clapped and cheered. I suppose because one of their own was the victor. But it was an unfair competition. What can I do to change my actual height? (Besides wearing tall shoes.)

Today is Valentine’s Day so 2 boys sang to me (separately & different songs). It was funny. Wish I could have captured the Kodak moment. One student explained his friend wanted to drink coffee with me. Result: another chuckle and head shake. And the girl obsessed with my eyes gave me a chocolate. Ferrero Rocher is their symbol for Valentine’s and they give them away. I ate it on my way home. It was tasty.

Overall it was enjoyable. Yvonne was happy because they spoke English with new motivation. Even during the break they sat and asked me questions.

The room was air conditioned which was nice. But after 2 hours of just sitting I was cold. And now the normal air feels really sticky. Ick.

I sort of wish I could have recorded the whole experience. I would set 1 camera in the corner for a full-class hot and then put one on my head so it shows what I saw. That would be great!