English conversation class became a part of my daily afternoon routine in Dharamsala. Students ranged in nationalities - Tibetan, Vietnamese, Bhutanese and Thai. In groups of 5-6 people, monks, nuns and laypeople discussed topics such as social networks, advertising and boys versus girls. Occasionally my own knowledge of English grammar was tested and I would be asked "What is a noun? An adjective?" Or the one I actually couldn't recall top of mind (9th grade grammar class was 20+ years ago!) "What is an adverb?" "Very good question" I replied as I quickly google searched to make sure I had it correct. Now to come up with a sentence as an example - eek!
Students would ask me questions about where I was from and what it was like, jotting down words they didn't know and looking up translations on their smartphones or iPad. The range of ability varied dependent upon how long they had been in McLeod Ganj. Some freshly landed within the last 1-2 months to others who knew the ropes after a couple of years. Common among them to seek a better life and the desire to learn and practice English. An amazing group of people!
06.10.14
Shimla, India
8:11am
A topic was posted each class with a set of questions. We would go around the circle and each student would answer. Then each student would have to get up in front of the class and answer a question of their choice. They each began with "Hello. My teacher's name is Marta and she is from America."
This round table method was a great way from them to not only practice their English but also hear different view points. The most interesting was when it came to what do you think about men staying at home and they were fastinated to hear of the trend (new word!) of stay-at-home dads.
Thank you boys and keep up the great work!
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