What have I been up to?

Hello all,

I am sure some of you might be wondering what has James been up to since August 29th, the date of my last post.

I have been getting to know my teaching team members, and exploring the city. They are great! I also have been preparing for classes.

We are prepping in a rather unorthodox manner, but I am going with the flow. One the first day we were all given class activities to organize for corresponding book chapters in which all of the classes have to participate. Then, we were all given chapters to pick exercises in the book to work on in class. Next, we were supposed to make a power point presentation of certain chapters.

So none of us have actually completed one whole lesson's work. In theory, this will allow us to do less work. I find myself thinking that this is great and other times, asking myself how it will work out.

We all have different students and different personalities, so although it is not the way I would do it I am. And I trust the English Department head's judgment. I am anxiously awaiting the start of classes which is in about two weeks.

I am also looking forward to hearing from you.

By the way I have been reading that book by the unknown author (some say Paul what's his name) and find chapters three and four quite fascinating.

On Saturday, I was given the opportunity to work at an Orphanage in the city. It was quite nice. There were 3 children that we were allowed to teach English and play games. One of the children was from Tibet. Someone from his home town had tricked him into going to Dalian. He said that he could make a lot of money in Dalian. He looks to be about 9-11 and it kills me that he is worried about money at that age. Anyway he found himself here with no place to stay, so he went to a local orphanage.

On Friday the orphanage posted his picture in the paper and in the local Tibetian paper, so hopefully his parents will see it and be able to get their son back. He is a very respectful young man. When I called on him in class, he stood and eagerly answered each question. I am sure if I were married, I'd have to adopt one of these children.

Oh yeah, I had two great Meals on Sunday. In the evening we had chicken salad!

Love ya,

James :0-)