Thus begins the life of Adam-sensei. Whether he come to be famous, or infamous or merely serve his tenure and retire into obscurity remains a mystery. But by god, it is going to be fun.Thanks to the 3rd and 4th years from Kamikatetsu Elementary for the snazzy backpack upgrade. And for bringing me 6 names closer to knowing every student on the island.
I'm going to their Obon festival (google it) later tonight with the 3,4 year teacher.
Salient points from today:
1) Elementary school children, are fast.
2) My stomach has returned to it's Japanese standard size, which means I can eat about half of a school lunch, at least in as much as they insist on giving me more than everyone else so I can maintain my gaijin prowess. But I do so prefer the 6-10 small meals scattered throughout the day approach...no really, it's awesome. You're never hungry and you're never full.
3) Having successfully taught a day of classes with nearly zero idea of exactly what the hell a day of classes would look like, I have few doubts that I will, at least, survive this year. The fact that the day got easier and easier supports this theory. Also, that the same 3 games could be fairly easily adapted to not only multiple subjects, but also levels of competence. Times 9 grade schools, annnnd chuckle.
4) There's always one. I don't know if you actually want to go google "kancho" but it's basically a concerted effort by small Japanese children to stab you in the asshole with their fingers. For the most part, the school seems fairly kancho-averse, or at least kancho-neutral. But there's that one damn kid who has made it his mission in life. Fortunately, he is 7, and not particularly stealthy. Also I am ten times his size. But it does require an extra degree of diligence on my part.
I'm going to go eat spaghetti.
Moms always hope that the first day of school goes well for their child- no matter their age. It is great to read your enthusiastic report. Love, Mom
ReplyDeleteWikipedia has quite a description of "kancho." You have my sympathy.
ReplyDeleteGlad the first day went well.
Hi Adam. I would be wearing metal under wear or putting a book in my pants. That always helped when being spanked. Sounds like your life is full of all kinds of action. Take care.
ReplyDeleteAdam-sensei,
ReplyDeleteYou are making me wish I had chronicled my first year so I didn't just have vague memories of the most memorable students and events. The year will fly by even though it will seem some days will never end. Enjoy them all. Peace, Uncle Jim
Third grade is the best. My students would never in a million years try the "kancho". They just make comments about my poky leg hair and endlessly play with their feet. Other than that I love them. While kids can have a lot of energy, they can also be really mellow. There's a time for both. Music is really an effective teaching tool as is anything done with matching movements. Both go into the long-term procedural memory. So games sound great! Gambatte!
ReplyDelete