FIRST WEEK ON PRACTICAL TRAINING (One Day of a Teacher and Student) 09.10.

2012
I and my three friends Neslihan, Gkhan and Deniz- are the trainee teachers under the supervision of an English teacher, erife Yksel at Hrriyet Anadolu Lisesi, Dikmen. We go to that school on every Monday (08:00-09:30) and Tuesday (09:40-11:20). Our very first day at Hrriyet Anadolu Lisesi has been a delightful one. On our way to school in the morning, our supervisor has called us informing that she wouldnt come to school at that day because her daughter has been sick and we will be teaching alone in 9/D on our first day as trainees. Also, she has said that we should get her books at the school and try to be prepared (!). As you might guess, we have been really surprised; then nervous, excited. Now I will try to tell how an English teacher spends a day before and after the school- but with a difference; we are the teachers. One day of a Teacher

On the way, I have grabbed my phone and searched for warm-up games that are suitable for the first meeting with a class on the internet. Weve found a game called Crossword Names. After we have arrived at the school, we have also grabbed our supervisors books and take a look at the parts we will work on. After 10-15 minutes, its been the class time! Assistants principal has entered the classroom with us, he has introduced us and told the children that they be careful and supportive during the lesson. After he has gone, we introduced us personally and moved onto the game. The game is to put ones name and by using a letter of that name, the other one writes her name as we do in crossword puzzles. We introduced the game and set an example with our names; they have come one by one and wrote their names. It has created an opportunity for us to learn the students names. However, the class size was large and it has turned out boring in last minutes. After the game, we have worked on the book. They have had homework on their books; we have checked the answers and provided explanations for the ones they have done incorrectly. At some times, we have worked on pronunciations for the common errors they have made. At the end of the two lessons, we asked for feedback on the last two hours. As for the overall experience, we really liked the students. They have been very helpful, hard-working, and cheerful. Also, they have told us that they have liked us and would be very willing and excited to welcome us every week.

One day of a Student

At the break, we have asked a few students about their one routine day at school. Here is what I refer: A freshman student at Hrriyet Anadolu Lisesi arrives at the school at 08:00 a.m. and leaves at 15:15 p.m. She has courses some fundamental courses like math, science, grammar, and some selective courses such as astronomy, Quran and she is not allowed to go out at the launch except the ones whose homes are near the school. She has eight hours of English classes. Generally, our students are willing to learn English but they have some prejudices and fears about learning. We have tried to encourage them by saying All of you are clever, dont panic, but try to learn and be cooperative. Finally, Id like to say that our first day has been a terrific one. At first, we have really panicked because we would teach without any preparation and motivation to teach. As the class has gone by, we have had a great time. Now that we have been successful even without a proper preparation, we may be a little bit confident for the next weeks.

Sedef Civelek