CO 2 On 4/6/2011

Betty J

In this class, the teacher, Felicia Ciappetta, conducted a class in Speaking on the lower advanced/advanced level. She “dances” in the class and had “light, happy” music playing before the class and while the students worked. I was asked to introduce myself and why I was taking my course. When I said I was planning to return to Kuwait, one of the women at the table where I sat became very excited and explained she is from Kuwait. She told me to contact her if I have questions and said we must meet when she is back in Kuwait. There was also a man observing the class. He is from Kuwait and returned to the US to get a Ph.D. in English, so he can return to teach. He has taught Arabic to High School students for 11 years in Kuwait.

The class discussed the question, “Should people over 40 have children?” You really need to get to know your students to know what subject matter is appropriate for them. They were also answering the question, “Does the use of the computer empower or deter progress?” They had written answers to read and answer out loud. It is interesting how to mix all the lessons in one. They will also practice interviewing each other and other groups.

One male student continued to talk while the instructor was talking and she gently touched his shoulder with her hand while she was talking. It was a very quiet, yet effective way to get his attention and he quieted readily without the instructor saying anything to get the attention of others or embarrassing him.

There were so many things to learn observing just one class.