Academic morning with some Ugi Time (porridge) and then sports. I was able to work with the teachers on lesson planning. They took it remarkably well today! They are doing early childhood, but a little planning can go a long way in class management and active learning. Even though they only have a chalkboard and exam books, interesting teaching and learning can happen. I have seen this without a classroom just an open space under a tree. Currently the teachers are stopping in the middle of the lesson to write everything down in the little exam books for the children to copy...for 30 students this is call crazy time! So, a little planning and writing prior to class can be helpful.
I introduced active learning by making letters shapes and letters with our bodies. We are counting fingers, toes, colour recognitions and flip cards, as well. The problem so far has been memorizing letters and only knowing those bad boys if given in order, recognition and out of order just doesn't click. I am trying to create differentiation at the most basic level, the teachers feel a 3 year old should be able to do what a 7 year old can do. Ouch! So, we work on this...but new ideas are coming along, even if a bit slowly.
Badaye!