Fulbright Exchange to America

Epilogue

2010-01-08T14:10:00.004Z

So this is where my story ends. When I have some time going spare, I may post pictures and videos of some of the fab work my US students produced over the course of last semester but other than that, I have completed my journey and have no more to write about.

Normality for me has been restored. After about five minutes, a very warm welcome and many hugs from both colleagues and students at Faifield, it felt like I'd never been away. I've picked up my social life where I left it and home is beginning to feel like home again.

It has been a challenging and emotional few months. I've been priviliged to work with some fantastic students and to be part of the Fulbright programme; I've gained an insight into another culture few are fortunate enough to have and hopefully I've been able to give my students, colleagues and friends an insight into mine; I've become stronger as a person; developed professionally and I've made some fantastic new friends. Conversely, I've encountered some of the worst personal and professional moments of my life (though, ironically, not where the students are concerned!) which will impact on me for some time to come; there have been times when I've felt so low I didn't think it was atually possible to feel that bad and that's been difficult to cope with.

Good or bad, it's all been experience and so can be learned from.

Most of all, this exchange has taught me to value what I have: it is the people in our lives that make our lives. It is so easy to take those people for granted or to become fixated on 'things' and that is something I'm clearer about than ever. This Christmas, spent with my boyfriend and parents, was the best I've ever had because I have a newfound appreciation for just how lucky I am to have them. Seeing how much they'd missed me also showed me just how much they value me too, though I've been fortunate enough to have grown up with my parents' unconditional love and support. I've always known I was lucky in this respect but now it's something I'm acutely aware of and extremely grateful for. Similarly, I am aware of just how lucky I am to have the friends I have; it makes me rich. 'They' say that it's when times are really bad you find out who your real friends are and that couldn't be more true. I know who mine are and I will never take them for granted. I will always put these people first in my life.

I would recommend a cultural exchange to anyone - especially with Fulbright as they're a fantastic organisation - but, if I could have my time again, I'd take closer heed of the advice given. Potential exchangees are told NEVER to exchange housing and as financially, most exhanges would not be possible without doing so, most exchangees go ahead and swap accommodation anyway. Don't. There's a reason for this advice and with hindsight, it would have been better not to do the exchange at all rather than to exchange houses. Also, unless you're used to being away for extended periods of time, I wouldn't recommend an exchange to people with pets or significant others. Ensure you and your partner are absolutely clear on exactly what you are, or are not, arranging or setting up for each other and don't be afraid to ask questions.

Over and out.

An Epic Adventure

2010-01-07T21:24:00.004Z

The flights for these exchanges are booked via an agency and paid for by the British Council. My return journey was therefore due to be rather complicated: Logan to Washington DC; Washington DC to Heathrow; long car journey home. Having heard that heavy snow had been forecast for Washington for my day of departure, I called United to try and arrange an alternative flight, direct from Logan, in the aim of avoiding delay, or potentially becoming stranded at the airport. United helpfully informed me that they were unable to do anything until the flight was actually cancelled - despite the 100% chance of precipitation - adding that the next direct flight from Logan with availability wasn't until late on Tuesday 22nd.

I therefore had no choice but to wait. My last morning was spent in front of my laptop, refreshing the flight information page. Eventually, both my flights flashed up as 'cancelled', and I immediately dialled the number on the screen. Three-and-a-half hours later I was still on hold, waiting to speak to someone. After discussing the pros and cons of going against advice and heading directly to the airport, I decided that at least there I'd get to speak to someone face-to-face and so I said my final goodbyes and Michelle and I left for Logan.

Once there, we discovered the United desk had 'closed' and I was brusquely advised to call the number on the website. I implored the gentleman to help me, explaining I'd been in a queue on said number for hours already and just wanted to get home. He responded by telling me to return the next day but that I probably wouldn't get a flight until at least Tuesday. Fairly desperate to get home, I refused to back down and reminded him an airline is obliged to place a passenger with a cancelled flight on the next available flight, even if that's with a competitor. I scored a place on an American Airlines flight, due to leave at 9am the next day.

As the snow storm was heading to Boston that night, I made the judgement call to stay at Logan rather than return with Michelle. I found a quiet corner and made use of the free wifi to while away the hours until the American Airlines desk opened at 4am; I'd been told as they overbook, my seat wasn't yet guaranteed. By 3.30am a substantial queue had already formed. My heart sank as an operative began telling us to go home and call the number he was distributing, as most flights had been cancelled. Fortunately, my luck had turned and the Heathrow flight *was* still scheduled to leave; I checked in without any problems and was able to relax over a plate of french toast and some much-needed coffee.

My flight was slightly delayed as it needed to be repeatedly de-iced and taking off on what appeared to be Arctic tundra was an interesting experience but eventually we were airborne. It was a pleasant flight, with good company (I made a friend!) and it wasn't that long before I was looking down at the lights of Ireland, my heart swelling with elation. We passed over Wales (and I swear, my house) before landing smoothly at Heathrow at 10pm. Best. Feeling. Ever.

The drive home was also eventful as we battled through snow flakes the size of saucers and un-gritted roads. It was slow progress; we arrived at the bottom of my hill at around 2am. Determined to be 'home', I declined the offer of a warm bed and walked the final leg of my journey, through the snow, with just the clothes on my back.

I found my little house to be colder than the snow itself; the heating had broken and my first night was a tad chilly, to say the least. There's nothing like one's own bed though. Luckily, the next day the boiler kicked back into life - it seems sediment had got into the oil as the tank had run low - and I've been toasty-warm ever since. I was also reunited with my clothes the next day and able to get to work on the things that needed doing - so slowly, things began to return to normal.

Bizarrly, I discovered that driving would take a little re-adjustment; after five months of driving an automatic, using the clutch took concentration! I didn't have time to ease myself back into the driving though, as as soon as the snow was passable I had to get one of my cats to the vet for a £300 welcome back present. She's worth it though.

Other than that, it's like I never left!

Goodbye Dinner

2010-01-07T21:18:00.003Z

My final evening was spent with some of the closest friends I made during the course of my exchange. They treated me to an impossibly huge, but delicious, dinner at a lovely restaurant and presented me with gifts. At the end of the meal, I was momentarily confused by a cake being placed in front of me while everyone - waitress included- began to sing 'Happy Birthday' to me: as my birthday was the following Wednesday they'd wanted to celebrate it with me then. I was very, very lucky to meet such fantabulous people and although we will meet again, I will miss them very much.

It was the perfect evening: good food and good company!

Student Appreciation!

2010-01-07T21:16:00.002Z

5,4,3,2,1...

2010-01-07T19:43:00.008Z

My final week was a tad hectic, to say the least. Lesson-wise, there were loose ends to tie up to ensure as smooth a transition for the students as possible plus final grades to input and progress reports to distribute. I also worked with PAVE, the 'alternative' classroom, and the PE department to inject some British culture into NHS and spent some time in the middle school, observing and setting up links for online collaboration and, potentially, future student exchanges.

On my final day, I was treated to no less than two surprise parties from my students! My AP class brought in an array of goodies and drinks, wrote 'Thank You' on the board and presented me with striped socks and a fab pair of slipper boots, plus the loveliest card in the history of ever. Several of the students had baked their own goodies - all of which were delicious. My Honors Period 6 class had organised their party for me on Facebook! They too brought in a table full of goodies, including a chocolate brownie cake iced with 'We'll Miss You Miss Sheppard' (which, as it turned out, proved to be of great interest to the sniffer dogs patrolling the school that morning as part of a scheduled lock down!) and presented me with a fab card. Even my College Prep students showed their appreciation - one student even sang me a song he'd 'written'(!). I was surprised and touched by these gestures; I will miss each and every one of my classes and they remain far and above the best thing to come out of this exhange for me.

At close of play, I was ushered into a colleague's room to find two huge cakes and most of the faculty. The Principal presented me with a card from the faculty and a certificate deeming me to be a 'RAM', plus a voucher for a 2009/10 yearbook (they're around $60 to buy). He told the faculty that I will always have a home at NHS, which meant an awful lot. He then asked me to make a speech, which I fumbled through (I never know what to say and hate being the centre of attention!). I also received gifts and cards from individual colleagues, a plethora of hugs and many, many compliments: guidance told me they'd not received one complaint or request to switch out of my class (which is apparently unusual) and that the students love me and many other colleagues reaffirmed the latter, saying what a smooth semester it has been with me here. In dark moments, I will think of those comments and they'll help me to smile again.

Leaving NHS for the final time was an emotional moment, all-in-all.

NY, NY

2010-01-07T18:40:00.002Z

Christmas in New York

2009-12-20T04:43:00.006Z

For my final weekend, Michelle took me to the Big Apple, as I'd expressed a desire to see it at Christmas-time. A native of Long Island, we stayed with Michelle's friend, Kim, travelling up on the Friday after school.

We stopped briefly to explore the Yale campus and grab a coffee (it was a bitterly cold weekend) before entering New York state. My first glimpse of the city was across the water from our bridge: it looked beautiful.

I instantly liked Long Island; the streets and houses are more reminiscent of those in the UK. We ate in a fab diner on the Friday evening and picked up some rather tasty bagels to take into the city the next morning.

Heading in via train, we arrived at Penn Station to a rather surreal sight: multiple Santas - everywhere! To this day, I'm not quite sure why there were so many but I did capture some of them on film.

We began our day at Central Park, which is impossibly huge. From there we checked out the large piano, as featured in 'BIG,' in FAO Schwarz and drooled over diamonds in Tiffanys. We then made our way to 34th to gaze at the infamous Macy's Christmas window displays before heading down Broadway to Times Square. From here we passed the Saks' light and music display on 5th before meeting friends for dinner.

It was then time to brave the crowds (think sardine tin - crazy busy) surrounding the Rockefeller Centre, where we witnessed a proposal under a tree adorned with sparkly lights. The ice rink wasn't at all like I'd imagined but the tree was suitably impressive.

We then headed to, and up, the Empire State Building for panoramic views of the city at night. Incredible! A NYPD helicopter even entertained the tourists by hovering at balcony level before looping the skyscrapers.

After a leisurely brunch in another fab diner, we headed back to Massachusetts. New York wasn't at all what I'd expected (noisy, dirty, packed) and I'll savour my bite of the Big Apple for many years to come. Thanks Michelle :)

Winter Wonderland

2009-12-20T03:26:00.008Z

On the 9th December, at approximately 5.30am, a magical thing happened: the phone rang.

Ok, so phones ringing aren't usually especially magical but this particular call signalled a snow day and thus bonus snoozing time!

After a few extra hours in bed, I ventured out to explore the picture-perfect landscape: New England is particularly magnficent in the snow!A fair few inches had fallen and my walk through the forest was particularly peaceful - there weren't even any other tracks in sight.

As most houses are already decorated for Christmas, the sparkly white stuff served to infuse the day with a festive air and was a welcome addition to my experience. Sadly, my colleagues weren't quite so happy as days are added to the end of the school year when a school has to close during term time. That's a cultural difference I don't think I'll be taking back!

2009-12-09T02:42:00.001Z

A new bathroom duty record was set today: 32 students!

Super Bowl Saturday

2009-12-08T00:45:00.008Z

Last Saturday was the Super Bowl game between NHS and David Prouty High School. As a self-confessed sports-phobic, please excuse me if I get any of the following details wrong, but 'super bowl', is essentially an American football final and the name comes from the Championship game of the National Football League, which traditionally takes place on a Sunday.

The game was scheduled to take place at a larger stadium on a college campus some distance away from Northbridge. Fans could be bussed there, but we opted for a car. School games are popular, high profile events here and generally generate a huge turnout. Entry to the game costs $10 and talent scouts are often present.

Not deterred by the driving blizzard or bitter cold (it snowed the whole time - sitting on cold, wet metal benches in the open air wasn't exactly pleasant), both sides had a decent representation in the stands - mainly fellow students and family members. Each side is supported by the school band and a cheerleading squad and it's clear who's sitting where as everyone wears the school colours and merchandise (I didn't disappoint on that score, although it wasn't obvious under my hat, coat, scarf and gloves!). NHS's colours are maroon and white and the school has the ram mascot (a student dressed in a ram suit accompanies the cheerleaders and generates school spirit). The fans are a passionate bunch, too - cheering, shouting and stamping their feet throughout the match.

The match itself was confusing to me, as despite the best efforts of my colleagues, I just can't get my head around the rules - but then I don't really understand the rules of football/soccer, either! I know the game is divided into four quarters and that the time for each section can be stopped and re-started and that teams can call 'time out' to discuss strategy, but I still haven't really got to grips with what's actually happening on the field - the teams will assemble, go into a sort of rugby scrum (which I believe is called a 'fumble') and then stop. This process is repeated until one team gets the ball to the end of the pitch (which I think here is called the 'field'). I used the crowd's reaction to judge whether what was happening was good or not and responded accordingly!

Sadly Northbridge didn't win on this occasion (the final score was 11 - 7) but they did, I think, play a fine game. Watching my students play, cheer and dance in a ram suit was, in itself, rewarding. Go Rams!

Pastures New

2009-12-08T00:29:00.003Z

On Friday, I ventured to Shepherd Hill Regional High School, which is a larger school in a different district, as I'd been asked to present to a class of students who have been following my exchange. Situated outside of a town and serving several, Shepherd Hill has a very different demographic to Northbridge and so I took the opportunity to observe some lessons whilst I was there, including a Science lesson, as one of the teachers I'd been scheduled to observe was absent. It's a rare opportunity for a teacher to observe in a cross-curricular capacity and I found this lesson just as interesting and useful as the English lessons I've sat in upon.

In some schools in the US, Drama doesn't really have much of a profile and Drama as an elective subject has only recently been introduced at Shepherd Hill, though they couldn't have a more enthusiastic or able teacher. We engaged in a lengthy discussion about the subject - he was surprised at how our Key Stage three students are given a Drama allocation as part of their normal timetable and are taught the skills that we teach them at that age - and I was treated to a tour of the theatre. Mrs Williams will be pleased to note that the Drama teacher and I will be remaining in contact, sharing resources and collaborating upon my return to the UK!

My presentation was well received; the students had prepared many questions for me and I enjoyed sharing my culture with them.

It's an interesting school, filled with magnificent murals all along the corridors, which create a welcoming atmosphere, and I thoroughly enjoyed the experience of being there. Thank you, Miss Ganger for inviting me :)

Rachel's Challenge

2009-12-06T03:24:00.010Z

'I have this theory that if one person can go out of their way to show compassion, then it will start a chain reaction of the same. People will never know how far a little kindness can go.'

Rachel Joy Scott

Last Thursday, a change took place at Northbridge High School. Students and staff alike were profoundly affected by a presentation given by Craig Scott, a survivor of the Columbine school shootings and brother of the first victim, Rachel Scott. Having seen the presentation at Hyannis last year, members of the School Council raised the money for it to be brought to Northbridge with the aim of creating a permanent positive culture change and it certainly was a powerful experience; one I will never forget.

On Tuesday, April 20th, 1999, two students at Columbine High School launched an attack which resulted in thirteen fatalities and twenty one injuries. Most of the killings took place in the school library, where Craig Scott was located, and that was also the location where the killers took their own lives. Scott led the survivors out of the library, only to later discover that his sister had been the first to be killed.

Rachel Scott had been the kind of person who sought out isolated students and befriended them. She wrote an essay detailing her vision of creating a 'chain reaction' of compassion, through doing kind deeds for others, and on a drawing of her hands wrote that one day those hands would touch millions of people's hearts. Her family have made this vision a reality. The organisation tours schools and businesses internationally, promoting Rachel's ideals.

The presentations last an hour and are targeted to the given audience (we had different presentations according to age during the school day and a community presentation in the evening). The events at Columbine are only touched upon; the focus is very much upon Rachel's life and her vision. The message is clear: life is short and should be lived to the full. The audience are left with five challenges to accept, these being:

1. Choose positive influences.
2. Dare to Dream (and write down your goals/ keep a journal)
3. Engage in Kind Words and Acts.
4. Look For The Best.
5. Start A Chain Reaction.

Both students and staff can then sign a huge banner to show that they accept the challenges and this banner will be left permanently on display in the foyer, as a reminder to all.

The presentation is followed by a workshop for a select group of students, who will then found a Friends Of Rachel club. These students will be responsibile for implementing the wider cultural changes within the school and will become ambassadors for the Rachel's Challenge message; they are asked to model kindness and compassion in all that they do. Initiatives such as a programme to befriend new students and write letters of thanks to auxiliary staff will be implemented in addition to projects to raise money for charity and make links with less fortunate children globally. Ultimately, the aim is to foster an 'atmosphere of kindness' and ensure that students are provided with character-building opportunities in addition to a standard education whilst at school.

At the workshop, students were asked to say what impact the presentation had had on them. Responses included: "It made me realise I've been mean to people who really didn't deserve it and I'm going to try and change that", "It made me realise it's time to act" and "it made me want to be a better person." I was struck by just how profoundly students were impacted; at the end of each presentation the audience - even the stereotypical 'Jocks' - were openly in tears and the desire to change was audible for the rest of the day. Although Scott lightened the dark content of his presentation with comic moments, he spoke of how the last words his friend heard before being shot that day were words of racial abuse and the last words he spoke were, "I want my Mom." He asked the audience to close their eyes and imagine being on the opposite side of a room to all the people that you care about in the world...and that it is the last time you will ever see them. It was these moments that were the most powerful and which had the most impact on the audience. If the Friends of Rachel group can successfully maintain that mindset then Rachel will not only have succeeded in touching millions of people's hearts, she'll have changed them for the better.

Find out more about what you can do here

A Night To Remember

2009-12-06T01:48:00.004Z

His name has, in recent years, become synonymous with horror films, such as The Devil's Rejects and the 2006 remake of Halloween and it is this inherent showmanship that makes Rob Zombie one of the best live rock/ metal acts there is. Massachusetts born, Zombie is currently touring the US to promote his forthcoming album, Hellbilly Deluxe 2. Having last seen him perform in London on the original Hellbilly Deluxe tour, eleven years ago (he's not performed in the UK since), it was with eager anticipation that I headed to Boston last Wednesday to see him play at the infamous House of Blues.

Security for gigs is much tighter in the US than the UK - perhaps due to incidents like the shooting that killed Dimebag Darrell five years ago - and before entering the venue we had to show ID (my Welsh driving licence required the verification of 'The Expert' - a fellow Brit), remove all items from our pockets and be patted down. Cameras were strictly forebidden. Once the gauntlet had been run, I (quite literally) bounced my way into the venue, only to discover that our tickets were for the mezzanine level on the second floor (I hadn't booked them). This was disappointing as that level offered limited views of the stage; indeed, aside from Scott, who's six foot three, we couldn't see a thing. I was, however, accompanied by no less than two Scotts that night, the other of which discovered we could get down to the ground floor level by expressing the desire to purchase merchandise. So that's exactly what we did.

We were then able to procure ourselves a prime spot near enough the front to have both a good view of the stage and elbow room. The atmosphere was super-charged, despite the lack-lustre performances by the support acts; the fictional (they featured in Zombie's Halloween II) Captain Clegg & The Night Creatures and Necromantix.

The headline act opened with a clip from Zombie's recently-released animated film The Haunted World of El Superbeasto. The band took to the stage to the rather eerie What Lurks on Channel X? and then launched straight into Superbeast, which sent the crowd into a frenzy. Zombie worked the crowd, playing on the rivalry Boston has with New York (Sox vs Yankees), as he'd played there earlier in the week. We were treated to a veritable aural banquet, including Living Dead Girl, Never Gonna Stop (The Red Red Kroovy), American Witch and Demon Speeding, along with White Zombie classics, such as Super-Charger Heaven and More Human Than Human (at which point a giant robot with glowing eyes took to the stage). To ensure that our eyes were equally happy, immense screens projected a plethora of horror-related images from old films and manga cartoons.

Half way through his set, Zombie left the stage to focus the audience on Tommy Clufetos' impressive drum solo and during a rendition of ThunderKiss '65 (which he made the audience beg him to play), he walked right through the crowd, from the back of the venue to the stage, accompanied by John 5's epic guitar solo. Sadly, he turned to head back to the ailse two people away from Scott and I, so I didn't get to high five him but I did get closer than I ever thought I would!

Only two songs from the forthcoming album found their way into the set and Zombie cleverly ensured that these were well received. "This isn't a gig, it's a party," he told the crowd, "and nobody likes a party when they don't know what's going on." Dividing the crowd by gender, he allocated key words from the chorus to Sick Bubble-Gum and engineered a competition (females got the word with the most syllables!); thus the crowd were able to sing this yet-to-be-released song along with the band. For the second number, What?, Zombie ordered all males to vacate the mosh pit to allow an all-girl - 'safe' - mosh pit to ensue.

Despite two encores, ninety minutes of Zombie-action just wasn't enough: the crowd lingered long after plecrums and drumsticks had been scattered amongst us (I was lucky enough to procure myself one of the former). Despite having to be up incredibly early the next morning, Scott and I lingered too - it was a phenomenal show. For me, seeing Rob Zombie play on home turf was the experience of a lifetime and is a definite highlight of this exchange.

Meeting the Parents

2009-11-30T02:56:00.002Z

Prior to Thanksgiving week, Northbridge held its first round of parent-teacher conferences of this academic year. Having been told of the power parents hold in the US and how vocal they are should they be unhappy with any aspect of their child's educational experience (it is not unusual for teachers to be contacted, or challenged, directly or for complaints to be made to the Principal), I was a little apprehensive as to what their reaction to me would be.

I needn't have worried.

The day before the first conference (there are two), at another 504 meeting, I met one of the parents I have been engaging in (requested) weekly email communications with. I was aware that she has been pleased with her son's response to my lessons as she has repeatedly provided me with positive feedback, telling me I have a 'rare gift' in bringing out the best in him which 'few teachers possess' in addition to how much of a difference I have made in him (I'm not sure if this can be entirely accredited to my teaching but he is certainly noticably more enthusiastic and focused that he was at the start of term). That said, I still wasn't prepared for her reaction upon being introduced to me: I offered her my hand but she instead opted to bear-hug me. It was a shock, but a pleasant shock, none-the-less!

Parent teacher conferences here occur twice-yearly, each over the course of two days, following the issue of report cards. Report cards provide a 'final' grade for a term, which occurs approximately every 45 school days. The grades for that term are final and will count towards the students' GPA (grade point average) and the next term's grades start with a clean slate. On the first day, school finishes early and after a short break there is a two hour time slot in which parents can meet with teachers. On the second day, there is a two hour slot after school, from six to eight pm. Parents have to call the school to arrange appointments, which are usually five minutes in length. The system works well, as those parents who cannot attend the evening session have the option of coming in the early afternoon instead. Teachers are provided with a list of parents and times, which enables them to print off a progress report, detailing the students' grades and assignments. Parents and teachers meet 1:1 in the teacher's classroom. At high school level, turnout isn't traditionally that high, although this year was fairly busy. Very often though, as is the case in the UK, the parents who the teachers need to see aren't the ones who make appointments!

On both days, I had a good range of appointments for all my classes, which was pleasing. Most parents seemed more interested in asking me about the UK than discussing their child's progress but I was relieved that, overwhelmingly, I was told that my students have enjoyed my teaching, have learned a lot and will miss me when I return home. Even those parents of students who aren't doing well didn't have any complaints; I could have not been more relieved!

Turkey Day

2009-11-30T02:02:00.006Z

Ever since receiving confirmation of this exchange, I have been looking forward to experiencing a 'real' American Thanksgiving with eager anticipation. It's a tradition which dates back to the seventeenth century, when the Pilgrims received help from the Wampanoag tribe to enable them to survive the harsh winter. The original feast lasted three days and records state that one of the foods consumed was 'fowl', which is probably where the tradition for having turkey originates from. Since 1941, the holiday has fallen on the last Thursday in November and has, just like other 'holidays', become increasingly more secular. It's now also commonly called 'Turkey Day'.

There is no half term in the US, so the Thanksgiving break is a welcome relief from school for students and teachers alike. I've been told that the Wednesday of Thanksgiving week is usually a half-day of school but this year we were fortunate to have the whole day off, making last week a two day week! As this is the holiday that most people head home for - moreso than Christmas, I've been told - I imagine it must have made travelling a whole lot easier.

The result of most people returning home is that Thanksgiving eve is traditionally the biggest night of the year in terms of going out. It's the time to reconnect with school friends and bars are therefore packed. Not one to miss out on the action, I decided to embrace this tradition whole-heartedly. We started the night at a Chinese restaurant - at a table for 20 - and then undertook the equivalent of a pub crawl - except here the distances between venues are so great that to do so requires the use of a car (there's no public transport either)! Our evening finished at lights up, at 2am. I think bars are open later as clubs are mainly only found in the major towns and cities. The vibe was very much New Year's Eve-esque, though without the extortionate door fees.

Thanksgiving day had very much the feel of Christmas to me, just without the presents and decorations. After a brisk walk through the woods, we headed over to a relative's house for a huge gathering - this time exceeding twenty - and LOTS of food. Being an only child of two only child parents, the sheer number of people was initially overwhelming but I relaxed over drinks and appertisers and chatted easily to my hosts and their various family members, all of whom seemed genuinely interested in me, this exchange and the UK.

The dinner itself was laid out on the counter and we all helped ourselves before sitting at the dining table(s). Again, it was reminiscent of Christmas: roast turkey, stuffing, gravy and cranberry sauce (which can sometimes come in cans!). There was also a green bean casserole, mashed potatoes, straight green beans and yams. This was followed by a plethora of desserts, all home-made: apple pie (pictured above), pumpkin pie, pumpkin cookies, chocolate chip cookies and vanilla ice cream. I don't think I've ever felt so full! I thoroughly enjoyed every mouthful though.

After dinner we all curled up to watch Home Alone on the hu-u-u-u-u-u-ge flat screen tv (a tradition with this family - Thansgiving signals a daily Christmas movie), played games and chatted. It was a truly lovely day and I couldn't have spent it with a nicer or kinder group of people: thank you so much!

The day after Thanksgiving is known as 'Black Friday' and is the most important shopping day of the year. It also signals the the beginning of the Christmas shopping season. Our closest equivalent would be Boxing Day, as all shops hold sales, with extended opening hours. Black Friday is on a more epic scale though; some shops open at midnight, others at 4 or 5am and shoppers have been known to get violent. Now, I'm not a shopper. In fact, I hate shopping but a small part of me felt as though I should sample this tradition too. I therefore decided to head to an outlet village which was opening at midnight, as, being a night owl, that appealed far more than heading out at 5am and I'd somewhat naively believed that most people wouldn't be doing the same. I couldn't have been more wrong. At 11.30pm, the queue of cars running in one direction from the village was a mile long and police and workers had been drafted in to assist with traffic control and parking. Many of the shops had a line of people at least fifty deep just to get in and have a look around! Needless to say, I perused the less popular stores, bought myself some half price Curls Rock (Tigi) and headed home. Not one of my wiser decisions, but an experience, none-the-less.

All-in-all, I thoroughly enjoyed my Thanksgiving experience; it was certainly worth the wait and was almost like having a bonus Christmas day. Certainly, Christmas is now the focus of New Englanders: most people put their trees up this weekend and houses everywhere are fast becoming adorned with wreaths and twinkling lights. I shall endeavour to capture some on film before I leave as they're picture-book pretty.

Stop All The Clocks...

2009-11-28T06:40:00.002Z

At every stage prior to undertaking this exchange - selection, induction and orientation - the British Council and Fulbright go to great lengths to ensure that exchangees are aware of the potential hardships and pitfalls of the experience. Nothing, however, can fully prepare you for how deeply bad news from back home can affect you when you're an ocean away from all that is familiar; how utterly isolating it is.

RIP, Jim Pascoe.

Cross Blog-ination

2009-11-25T00:04:00.002Z

Tenuous title, I conceed, but the English department at NHS has developed its own blog, which we have all been asked to contribute to.

You can find my first instalment here, if you're interested.

Memes really do come true(!)

2009-11-19T01:57:00.005Z

Think of a student giving their teacher a gift. What comes to mind? Probably an apple, right? It's a meme that I can remember being aware of from a very young age, though I've never actually known of any teacher actually being given one and, until now, I'd never received one myself. I'd believed it to be the fabric of movies and idealised fantasies of school.

It was therefore a lovely surprise to be given a glossy red apple as a gift from one of my Sophmore students this week (pictured above).

Perhaps it's another cultural difference, as UK students rarely give their teachers gifts - at least once they reach high school age - and yet teachers in the US are treated to 'Teacher Appreciation' week! Or, perhaps not: I really don't know.

Either way, the gift was very much appreciated; thank you, Matt! :)

11/11

2009-11-12T02:54:00.005Z

'They shall not grow old, as we that are left grow old. Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn. At the going down of the sun and in the morning. We will remember them.'

There are so many more cultural differences between the UK and America than I could ever have anticipated before taking part in this exchange; I love discovering them, which is fortunate, as they are an almost daily occurance! It's almost like living in a parallel universe, where everything looks familiar, but when examined, nothing's truly the same.

This week, during a lesson with my AP class, as part of our current focus of honing their ability to provide a fully developed analysis of specific devices, we were discussing Seamus Heaney's poem, 'Mid -Term Break'. Surprised that not one of my bright, articulate students had picked up on the plurality inherent within the phrase 'poppy bruise', I questioned them about their take on it. Most didn't even know what a poppy was! Drawing it on the board for them, I explained the significance of the poppy in the UK; that in the UK, paper poppies are sold in the run-up to November the 11th and people wear them to remember those who died in the World Wars, the proceeds going to servicemen and women who are injured today. Adding that the poppy emblem was chosen due to the large number of poppies which bloomed in the battlefields at Flanders after WW1, so symbolising the bloodshed of trench warefare and that, in the UK, we also have two minutes' silence at 11am on 11/11, to respect those who lost their lives.

So, upon waking this morning (aside from thinking 'hurrah, it's not 5.30am ;)), it struck me that, for the first time in living memory, I would not be wearing a poppy on Armistice Day. My parents are currently out visiting me and they too had left their poppies behind as they would not have been allowed the pins on board the aircraft and they didn't think to pack them. I felt slightly perturbed by this, as both my grandfathers fought in WW2 and so, for me, it's been a time to remember and respect what they went through.

In the US, Armistice Day is called Veterans Day (offically there's no apostrophe) and it's a national holiday (hence my lie-in). There is also a further national holiay at the end of May, Memorial Day, which also commemorates those who have served in the armed services. I am unsure whether there is an official period of silence, as, being a non-working day, I wasn't in public at eleven am. There are definitely no poppies, or equivalent: my students weren't the first to ask about their significance!

With no school, my parents and I decided to venture to Plymouth (or 'Plimoth'). There, we happened upon a British shop (who'd have thought touching a packet of Angel Delight could have inspired such happiness?!) which had a British Legion box of poppies! So I did get to wear my poppy this year, after all.

In the true spirit of the Fulbright exchange, where two cultures are intertwined to further cultural understanding, I was able to wear my UK poppy with pride, whilst celebrating Veterans Day, US-style! We may have different ways of remembering, but the sentiment is the same. And, for once, whether British or American, we're both seeing the date the same way: 11/11.

It's a dirty job but someone's gotta do it...

2009-11-03T01:43:00.004Z

Duty here is very different to that expected of a teacher in the UK. Break time doesn't have the same function and isn't for teachers, so there isn't any break duty. Neither is there bus duty.

Instead, once every seven days (because that's how the timetable rotates), during a free lesson, teachers are assigned a location to monitor. I struck lucky and got bathroom duty.

Bathroom duty consists of sitting at a table opposite the male and female student toilets (bathrooms here) with a clipboard, a clock and a pencil. Students who need to use the toilet must get their subject teacher to sign their 'passport' - a card which shows why they are out of lessons and for how long - and it is the job of the teacher on duty to sign when they leave the toilet, noting the time. Students must also fill in the form on the clipboard. Only one student is allowed in the toilet at a time. The system clearly works here and has helped to eliminate smoking in the building.

As an interesting aside, the watch today was set according to the 24 hour clock, when usually it's not. The vast majority of students, even those of high ability, struggled to ascertain what the time was when faced with '13.23', or whatever. Some took guesses, "That's twenty three minutes past two, right?" and others just asked me. One student even offered to alter the settings on the watch! I've heard that this may be because there aren't any 24 hour clocks at the middle school but I'd not encountered students trying to tell the time this way before.

I've certainly got to know a lot more students doing this duty! As mine falls last lesson of the day, I get a frequent flow (excuse the pun) of students - twenty eight in today's lesson. It does, however, mean that I can't really multitask!

Halloween

2009-11-03T01:35:00.008Z

For my first American Halloween, I experienced proper Trick or Treat-ing, with some small people in costumes. It's less about teenagers out for some spare cash here and more about children and sweets (or, rather, 'candy'). Households actually enjoy the process, stocking up on goodies and leaving their front light on to invite people to call. Participants carry pumpkin-shaped containers, or goody bags and everyone wishes each other a 'Happy Halloween'.

Some people really go to town on decorating their houses too - they vary from cobweb-draped bushes to a veritable mini movie set!

Homecoming

2009-11-03T01:06:00.004Z

The lovely Homecoming 2010 t-shirt my Seniors gave me as a gift on Saturday.

Last weekend wasn't just Halloween, it was Homecoming for NHS. Homecoming traditionally occurs earlier in the Semester, as past students who have gone on to college attend. Luckily the weather was fine - even balmy - and the turnout was still impressive.

The festivities commenced with a 'Pep Rally' on the Friday afternoon. The whole school gathered on the bleachers in the Field House whilst the school band played and the student wearing the school ram mascot costume geared up school pride. Once settled, the Seniors facilitated a series of activities for our amusement, which mainly involved embarrassing teachers! I participated in the 'new staff' musical chairs and, although foiled in my plan to be first out (I actually made it just past the halfway mark), I was happy when my turn came to leave the 'stage', as I'd begun to sustain injuries - Principals here fight dirty! ;) Students were also directed in how to perform their 'Fight Song' - which they clap along to, en masse and encouraged to compete to spell the RAMS mission statement aloud.

The rally was followed by the Homecoming dance, which I'd volunteered to chaperone. Think of pretty much any High School-based movie you've ever seen and you've got it. The Field house had been transformed by some rather snazzy lights, a curtained area for a dance floor and a big screen showing music videos. Carved pumpkins adorned tables and at the entrance were Halloween-themed balloons. Luckily, the chaperones didn't encounter any incidents - the students mainly huddled together in the centre of the dancefloor for the duration of the night - which was almost a shame as my colleague had his torch to hand! The Homecoming court was announced and the King and Queen crowned. Highlight of the night was when the majority of the students present danced, in formation; just like in the movies! 'What song?' I can hear you ponder. Thriller? Nope, only some danced to that, though I wish it had been. The song that broke these students out of thier huddle was...Cotton Eyed Joe *face/palm*.

The following day, Halloween, saw a series of sporting fixtures being played at the middle school. In addition to the games, there are stalls and food - I bought some very tasty fries from Admin (SLT to you), run by students and teachers alike. Luckily I escaped being put in jail or being annoyed (people could pay for students to do either, or both, to specified individuals) although all the money goes into various fundraisers for the school, so it's all in a good cause. There is a definite vibe at Homecoming - a party atmosphere - and the students love it! It's a whole community event, as well.

My first...

2009-11-03T00:59:00.003Z

...504 plan review meeting.

Students here with specific needs can be put on a 504 plan, which provides accommodations that must be made for them. When the review of this plan is due, a meeting is called where subject teachers and Guidance meet with the student in question and his/ her parents.

Teachers must provide a print out of all the students assignments and grades to date and be prepared to provide feedback, respond to the parents' questions and suggest grades which the student can 'make up'. This then leads into discussion of any changes necessary for the student to ensure the 504 plan is still relevant to them.

My first meeting of this nature was an interesting experience, not least because I did not expect the student to be in the room, witnessing and participating in the discussions; though as it is about them I can see the logic in it, especially as High School students here are older. It was also interesting to hear what other subject teachers had to say about that student; there were striking similarities!

My first...

2009-11-03T00:54:00.002Z

...Hostess cupcake, given to me by a student. Mmm! Thank you, Genni!

Good Times...

2009-11-03T00:47:00.003Z

Mrs Williams and I had a fab time during her short stay, doing all things 'American'. We ate some truly epic food, went mansion-spotting in Newport and perused Super Walmart for Thanksgiving goodies.

She too came to school with me, spending time with each of my colleagues and conducting a formal observation of one of my lessons for my professional development at home (thanks for that, Ms Conway :p).

It was lovely to have a little bit of Fairfield here in Northbridge. :D

Cotton Eyed Who?

2009-11-03T00:11:00.004Z

The Fulbright in-service workshop for exchange teachers and their mentors took place from the 21st - 24th October in Nashville, Tennessee.

My mentor, Paula, and I flew from Providence, Rhode Island. We boarded the smallest plane I have ever been on - the overhead compartments were only big enough to store a handbag - and I was suddenly thankful we didn't have a direct flight: it felt like we were flying on a model plane. Luckily, we arrived safely at our final destination and caught a taxi to the hotel (much to my amusement, the man at the taxi rank congratulated me on my achievement of being at such a good 'school', which bemused me somewhat until I realised that I was wearing my MIT sweatshirt and he'd taken me for an *actual* student!).

Arriving at our base for the workshop, the Vanderbilt Holiday Inn, I was greated by a flurry of hugs and a real Welsh cwtch from my UK counterparts. Spending time with them, catching up and comparing notes, was brilliant; we had a fab few days, despite the early starts and hard work!

AED surpassed themselves with this workshop; dull lectures were kept to a minimum, being replaced by interactive sessions and time, in an actual school, observing American teachers teach. This, for me, was the most valuable experience as it's something that is difficult to find time for in a normal teaching day. Interestingly, whilst some lessons were delivered in a very different way to the lessons a UK teacher would teach, watching other teachers was like watching myself. I made lots of notes, took on board the learning points and gained a new wave of enthusiasm for my classroom experience. We were also fortunate enough to be based on the beautiful Vanderbilt university campus.

As all work and no play makes Jack a dull boy, we left him in the hotel and spent the nights on the town. For a metaller, the home of Country was quite an experience. Cowboy boots and hats were, quite literally, everywhere. We took endless photos of neon signs and even attempted a bit of line dancing - and yes, they did play Cotton Eyed Joe. Fail. Whilst I won't be doing *that* again, it beat sitting watching everyone else do it and it was certainly entertaining. Epecially the line dancing version of YMCA and when a dedication was called out to the 'Pocket Monkeys' ( a misunderstanding of the request for the Fulbright Pocket Moneys, being as the surname of our Fulbright guy is Money, and, well, you can guess the rest).

Parting on the Saturday was a sad experience - Gil from Canton and I stocked up on cwtches - and I shall miss my fellow exchangees, though no doubt most of us shall see each other again. I'm certainly not short of offers of places to visit thoroughout the US and, after the year is done, Europe too. I couldn't stay sad for long though, as that evening was the evening of Mrs Williams' arrival. Plus, as I was collecting her from Boston Logan, I got to say that I'd 'done' four states and three airports in one day!

Crumpets and Garlic Chicken. Tasty!

2009-11-02T23:51:00.004Z

As the majority of my students here had held the stereotype that Brits have tea and crumpets each day (which I was quick to dispel, I may add) but didn't actually know what a crumpet is, Ryan brought a veritable banquet of them with him when he came over, as he spent a day in school with me.

My Honors and AP classes performed their 'Beowulf vs Grendel' skits (drama performances to you and I - all very impressive) that day and once we'd reflected upon and assessed them, they were treated to a crumpet - or two. The consensus seemed to be that they are similar to English muffins here but still fairly unique in taste and texture. Most students seemed to rather like them though! :)

After school, some of the Seniors took Ryan and I out for dinner; a very bizarre concept to me but they were keen to do so and I was touched by the gesture. There is an institution here, known as 'Wright's (Chicken) Farm', which is an all-you-can-eat establishment renowned for its succulent chicken and tasty fries. Sounds good? Sadly, for me, it wasn't.

"We only serve steak and chicken here," the waitress informed us.

Fine by me. I asked for the chicken, adding that I have an onion and garlic allergy and therefore would need plain pasta and salad.

"You can't have the chicken; it's cooked in garlic," she informed me cheerily.

We ordered the steak. She brought out salad containing onions and pasta coated in sauce.

"It's a shame you can't eat the chicken; it's so good," she added helpfully, as she served the fries.

Despite the waitress-from-hell, the meal was entirely pleasant. My students took the opportunity to ask a million questions about the UK and the differences in the school systems; I took the opportunity to find out more about them. They also told me what they've liked most about my lessons and how much they feel they're learning.

I may not have been able to eat the infamous chicken, but I left that night with a Ready-Brek glow anyways. Thank you Seniors!

Back In Black

2009-11-02T23:34:00.003Z

Missed me?! Thought so ;)

October proved to be a busy month, with visits from my lovely boyfriend and my friend/ colleague, the equally lovely Mrs Williams (thanks for the socks!!), plus a Fulbright workshop in Nashville, Homecoming and Halloween, all in addition to school stuff and other shenanigans. I have therefore not had time to post anything at all.

November is likely to be even busier ( grades for the first quarter close, my parents visit, it's Thanksgiving, etc) and so my posting is likely to remain sporadic but, for now at least, and by popular demand, I'm back!

The Hungry Caterpillar

2009-10-06T02:47:00.002+01:00

You Can't Stop Progress (or so say Clutch)

2009-10-06T02:01:00.005+01:00

At just five weeks into the new school year, teachers here have been busily printing off 'Progress Reports' for every student they teach. These are computer-generated and contain the grades, and average overall grade, for each students' work to date. Each assignment (homework/ classwork, quiz, test, writing/ book project) has a different weight towards the overall score and the aim is that by the end of the term, students will have multiple grades for each category. By the time I leave, I believe I'll have generated two further reports for each student in additon to a day and an evening meeting with parents.

As an aside, parental involvement is far greater here: each week I have to email several parents directly with updates on and the homework I've set for their child (although the silver lining there is that I get some lovely replies, feeding back the positive impact I've had: it's time-consuming but it can be rewarding) and they can call a teacher's classroom phone directly; no buffering secetary or opportunity to speak at a time convenient to the teacher! I get the impression that parents have far more 'power' here than they do in the UK - they're certainly more actively involved in the minutiae of their child's daily education.

Every student has a guidance counselor, who assigns their classes and generally takes care of the pastoral side of their school career. Guidance also monitor their grades and can tell students what their current attainment levels are. I have therefore had several students approach me - and even email me on my school email - over the past few days, asking what they can do to boost their grades before their reports are printed. Mostly, these are students who have not submitted work: if work isn't in on time, ten points are deducted. And ten more are deducted each day the work is late, up to a maximum of five days, when it receives zero. Receiving zero can seriously impact on an overall grade. Pupils who play sport, such as football, require a certain grade level, so in a school as sports-focused as Northbridge High, it's mainly been students who 'need' a higher grade in order to be able to play this week.

As is the norm in any school at report time, generating them has been a logistical nightmare; not least because our printer has been out of order for some time now and so to print anything, we have to go to the school library. Having used the Moodle application on the school network to 'teach' me how to generate the reports, it took me several attempts to complete all the necessary stages (I had to ensure each included a disclaimer, in addition to the setting-up stages) but I got there in the end and managed to print off all my classes' reports in a relatively pain-free, if time-consuming, process.

Teachers distribute them directly to the students and they aren't in an envelope, so I'm anticipating being challenged over some of the grades tomorrow!

Fact #3

2009-10-06T01:58:00.001+01:00

A high proportion of cars here have red indicators.

Fact #2

2009-10-06T01:57:00.001+01:00

Being poorly when one is over 3000 miles from home is NOT fun.

Though I did learn how to make chicken soup. Bonus.

Pumpkin, pumpkin everywhere, but ne'er a...

2009-10-06T01:49:00.003+01:00

...ok, so it doesn't *quite* work, but you get the gist, right?!

As fall descends upon New England, pumpkins have begun to take over: the porches of houses are adorned with them; farm stands are littered with them, of all conceivable shapes and sizes; pumpkin festivals are being held; coffee shops sell pumpkin spice coffee, pumpkin doughnuts (or donuts, this side of the pond) and pumpkin muffins and I've begun to spy pumpkin pies for sale. Pumpkins, it seems, are so hot right now!

Fall

2009-09-25T20:14:00.000+01:00

= pumpkin spice coffee.

Oh yes.

Pressure

2009-09-24T17:57:00.002+01:00

As mentioned in my previous post, students here are very grade-conscious: there is the expectation that they will be graded for everything that they are asked to do and if they're not, it can affect the way that they apply themselves to the task. Having seen the work some of these students produce, I think perhaps an ongoing system of assessment can, and does, help to ensure students give their best; I'd love my students back home to give as much of themselves to a task. However, the flip side of this seems to be that students here can often feel under enormous pressure. The majority of both my Honors and AP students were relieved that they were not being graded on the game-show 'quiz' (I explained the objective was to consolidate their understanding and knowledge of the topic as this will enable them to perform better in subsequent tasks). We've discussed the difference in the system and have agreed that whilst I will regularly employ the range of assessments they need in order to maintain their GPA, I will also be setting tasks UK-style where the focus is very much on the outcome of the task itself and how it will benefit their learning experience. I'll also be using AfL, which is something they do do here, just not as extensively. My AP class were especially delighted with this suggestion, I imagine because for them, the stakes are even higher.

These students are also currently under the additional pressure of applying for a place at college (i.e. university). In the US, each college-bound student will write and submit a resume to Guidance, as these will be used by both them and teachers to write references. There is an online application system called 'Common Apps' which enables students to write a single application for use with over four hundred colleges. Some colleges require individual applications. The vast majority of colleges require students to write an essay (usually on a general topic which will ultimately provide an insight into the individual) and pay an application fee. Whilst they choose a subject to 'major' in, they will continue broad studies at college (English, Math etc) and degrees usually last four years. Also, colleges here differ from UK universities as a significant number are faith-based; so a Catholic college, for example. Over the coming weeks, students can attend open days at the college(s) that interest them. The whole process is therefore an added stress in their final year.

I am therefore interested to see how my mixture of UK and US assessment methods will pan out: it could go either way! With the context collaborative presentations, the students knew they'd be getting a classwork effort grade, so if in future I assign a similar task without such grading, I will be taking note of whether they apply themselves with as much enthusiasm and dedication. Either way, they're really responding to my methods, which is fantastic.

The AP class presented their context collaborations today and they somehow managed to be even more impressive than with their previous efforts: they devised a five act puppet show on the Epic Warrior and chivalry, a cookery programme complete with eggs that cracked to reveal Saxon, Angles and Jutes yolks and accurately measured props in order to bake Angle Saxon cookies, and an amazing dramatisation on religious change. Videos of these presentations should be uploaded soon.

The Honors classes have furthered their knowledge of context - and also the key features of Anglo Saxon poetry (our warm up focused on definitions and examples) - through looking at a short Horrible Histories clip on ritual and exploring the fate of bog bodies through the analysis of some of Seamus Heany's poems (most rewarding moment of the day was a student who has now developed a love for his poetry). Somewhat fortuitously, British news today revealed a significant discovery of an Anglo Saxon treasure trove in Suffolk: one million pounds worth of Anglo Saxon gold and silver which is likely to change our view of the period entirely. We therefore read, watched and discussed the news articles (which even contained reference to Beowulf!). Tomorrow we'll be listening to the Prologue in actual Old English before getting stuck into the text proper.

The success of this weeks' lessons has also helped me to feel less pressured, as I feel as if, for this week at least, I've done what I came to do: a good job.

Here's one I made earlier...

2009-09-24T03:40:00.002+01:00

Both Honors classes have now presented their collaborative context research pieces and overall, their presentations were as impressive as those given by the AP class (see above for examples of both their work and that of the AP class). I was treated to a Town Crier, a poem, recipe, map, several timelines, a menu and 'Did You Know?' lists. Even more unique was the 3D warrior head, decorated with stained glass mosiac and musical notes to represent how the stories of a warrior's achievements were told, a rather realistic issue of Time magazine and a rap!

The sports-themed game show quiz (complete with opening theme music) also seemed to work well as a consolidation task: students were given ownership of writing both the questions and finding the answers beforehand and their answers demonstrated a solid grasp of the contextual information. They seemed excited by the theme music and prizes and became quite impassioned at times! I did get several students requiring clarification on how they were being graded though, as the expectation seems to be that I would grade them for such a task (and even the word 'quiz' itself has a very different meaning for them; I had to emphasise the 'game show' element in order to enable my students to fully grasp the nature of the activity). In the end, I opted to give them a class participation grade as their true understanding of context will become apparent in their ability to apply it to their analysis of Beowulf.

Little Pleasures

2009-09-22T02:42:00.004+01:00

I had a good day today. A REALLY good day.

Teaching here so far has been relatively uneventful. I've been pleased with my lessons and have enjoyed working with my students; I believe I'm establishing a rapport with all my classes. I've had sunshine moments (where the sun seems to shine that bit brighter), such as when a College Prep student told me he's stuck the essay he'd got an A for on his fridge, so he can feel good about himself whenever he goes to get a drink and when a parent praised me on my 'astute' observations on her son (it is usual here to have to email a parent with a brief summary of lessons and homework by a specified day each week; I have to do this for three or four students. I've also picked up the phone in my classroom to find a parent on the other end!). That said, I've also had moments where I've fretted over all the forms of assessment I need to undertake and also how to plan using textbooks and an entirely different curriculum.

I'd therefore been worrying about how to approach Beowulf - specifically the ten or so pages of contextual information at the start of the unit in the textbook - with honors students when I've only previously taught it to twelve year olds, and British twelve year olds at that (I do think there is a difference in terms of contextual knowlege, due to cultural differences). I'd mulled over approaches for days, setting the reading as homework before I'd made a final decision on the route I wanted to take. So today, I was delighted when the route I took seemed to be a resounding success.

In addition to writing the lesson objectives on the board, I also wrote up two columns: A and B. Column A contained a range of presentation methods, such as a recipe, flow chart, images, etc. Column B listed the five key areas covered by the contextual information in the textbook. After a brief starter, I explained the class was to be divided in two and that the two teams would be competing against each other (this always ups the ante!) for a prize. The teams were told that they should decide amongst themselves who would work on which area but that by the end of the lesson I wanted all five pieces of work from Column B, presented using a range of methods from Column A (one of which was 'other', so that they could be as creative as the bounds of their own imagination). The teams will be presenting their work next lesson, enabling them to further consolidate their understanding of the topic (as they are more likely to retain the information if they have to explain it to someone else) and me to decide a winner. In both classes, all the teams threw themselves into the challenge with gusto and the standard (and creativity of the) work they produced was phenomenal. I even got asked by several pupils if they could do further research and add to their presentations for homework! Additionally, the students were very vocal in their praise of the task, which was satisfying to me.

I'm looking forward to the presentations and intend to consolidate the introduction to the unit by getting them to submit their own quiz questions (of the game show kind as opposed to the US school kind) and we'll culminate with a version of the Talking Football game, adapted to suit the rules of American sport (as most students here are very sports-focused).

My AP class also blew me away today with their presentations on mythical allusions. Even when I taught A level students I don't think they ever gave so much of themselves when presenting work - or allowed themselves to be quite as creative - as these students. Some had made actual children's story books, complete with illustrations, and delivered the story in the form of 'circle time'. Others made huge poster boards or professional PowerPoints (in one case, where each slide had been physically drawn by her on the computer too). The highlight of the lesson though was the presentation given by the token male of the class, who'd made a series of masks (see above) and acted out the tale of Medusa, playing every role.

Having worked in schools, and with classes (and I'm not talking about Fairfield here) where even the most interative, creative, 'bells and whistles', lesson seems to have little effect, even on the able, to be able to harness the creativity and enthusiasm of these students is in turn infusing me with possibilities: this could be fun!

Black Sunshine

2009-09-22T01:28:00.007+01:00

Last weekend I was joined by a fellow UK Fulbrighter, Matt, who is spending the year at an elementary school in Washington DC. Matt flew in to Boston Logan Friday evening, so collecting him from the airport was my biggest driving challenge to date. I managed to get there without any problems and even persuaded the surly police man to let me stop at arrivals for, "two minutes" (how one is meant to collect anyone from the collection point if they're not allowed to stop is beyond me). Fortunately, Matt was able to get to the car within the allocated time slot. The journey back was slightly more eventful, as the SatNav I was using (yes, *me*, using a SatNav!) took us into central Boston, instead of out to the Mass Pike. This was rather daunting, to say the least, but I kept telling myself if I could drive central London at rush hour (which I have done, albeit many moons ago now) then I would be just fine. And I was. Just.

Saturday started with a drama, but thankfully not a crisis. We'd decided to get the train to Boston from a nearby station but alas, on a Saturday, we had a choice between 9.38am and sometime between two and three in the afternoon. Neither of us are natural early risers, so the former didn't appeal, but the latter wouldn't have afforded us enough time. We made it to the station, or rather, platform (as passengers must buy their tickets on the train) with only minutes to spare. Expecting to have to place a parking ticket inside my windscreen, I left the driver's door of the car open whilst we went to pay. The system for payment, however, was so strange to us both that I decided it warranted a photo (see above). Basically, there was a metal plate containing lots of teeny tiny metal slots. To pay, we had to insert $4 (either in coins or notes) into the teeny tiny hole that corresponded to the number of the parking space we'd parked in. A metal implement on a wire was provided to help jam everything in. To take said photo, I placed my purse and bag on a top of a handy bin. I then dashed to lock the car and we headed to the platform. We quickly realised (by the fact everyone else was facing us) that we were actually on the wrong side of the platform and legged it across the bridge, making it on to the correct side just as the train drew to a halt. Relieved, we boarded.

Saturday was a beautiful day; unadulterated azure skies and pleasantly warm. We settled back in our seats and chatted away happily. That is, until the ticket collector arrived and I discovered my purse wasn't actually in my bag, or anywhere else about my person. I imagine I must have looked just about as distressed as I felt as the ticket collector told me to take some time to decide what I wanted to do, talked me through my options and left us to mull it over. He'd mentioned calling Grafton police and it was at that moment I realised that I didn't have a clue how to do that, or even how to find their number. I decided to call Christina, who's been a good friend to me since my arrival and who is a colleague at my school. She lives fairly close to the station too. She was fantastic, immediately leaving to see if it was still at the station. Waiting for her call seemed to take forever though - I felt sick, scared and very, very stupid. Luckily for me, the purse was where I'd left it - on top of the bin - complete with all its contents. As Matt didn't want to miss out on the full Boston experience, Christina agreed to hold on to my purse so that we could continue our journey.

Rather ironically, I was to be Matt's tour guide in Boston. Luckily for me, I have been there several times now with Michelle and Michele, both of whom have told me about the various sections we've been walking around and we've also taken a guided tour of part of the Freedom Trail. We began our day at Boston Common and then followed the Freedom Trail to its end. As we walked, all the snippets of information and history I'd gleaned began to slot together and I was able to tell him a fair amount, I think. We also ventured onto parts of the Trail which were new to me too: we climed all 294 steps of the Bunker Hill monument and boarded the USS Constitution, which at almost 212, is the oldest commissioned battle ship in the world (HMS Victory is older but she's permanently docked).

The afternoon was entirely pleasant: we talked, we laughed and we ate ice cream. We'd decided to take the eight thirty train home but I'd somehow not read the train timetable properly and we discovered that train only went part of the way back. We therefore had a further four hours to kill before our train home (which also happened to be the last train home). Matt suggested the cinema, so we navigated our way to a rather lovely one near the Common. Alas, our film choices were limited to three films which fell within our time slot and the best of these appeared to be the latest Matt Damon offering, The Informant. If you were thinking of going to see this, don't bother. Seriously. Experiencing a cinema in America was, however, interesting as it made a cultural difference apparent that never would have occured to me: the audience react far more to the events unfolding in front of them. The film was peppered by loud, hearty laughter from a fair proportion of the audience and several people even shouted out comments to the screen! Despite the film not being to our taste, it passed the time (and I discovered a fab white cherry slush drink) and we made the final train without further incident.

Sunday mainly consisted of a leisurely brunch - blueberry pancakes for me, cheese and ham omlette for him - and then a return to Logan. And yes, I *did* end up in central Boston on the way home. Again. I really need to figure that one out by the time Ry arrives! Despite the dramas, I thoroughly enjoyed both Matt's company and the weekend. Good times!

School Daze

2009-09-16T21:38:00.002+01:00

Win!

2009-09-16T20:33:00.002+01:00

'Leadership is a quality of those who earn the respect of others through the wisdom of the combination of their words and their actions.'
Walter Grant IV

A school is only as good as the people who lead it; I have, in my time, taught in many schools with fantastic staff but weak management and making any form of progress is virtually impossible. Part of the reason I knew Fairfield was for life and not just for Christmas was because of the exemplary leader we have in Chris Barker. As a teacher there, I feel supported and enthused with possibilities.

Northbridge High School has a shiny new leadership team - here known as 'Administration' - and thus even to those who work here permanently, they are still a relatively unknown quanitity. I was therefore pleasantly surprised today, upon being asked to meet with the Principal, to find that they are also both strong and supportive.

In my previous post, I told of my anger at being called out of a lesson by the local intrepid reporter. As it turns out, he had neither the permission nor the blessing of Administration to do so and furthermore, they will ensure this does not happen again - to anyone. I was told that they support me and if this instance should reoccur then I simply have to make a call and they will deal with it. It was reassuring to hear that they too feel the most importance place for me to be is in the classroom. Additionally, they are highly visible within and around the school - the Principal often 'walks through' lessons and this too is a sign of good leadership.

I shall now relax, breathe and return my focus on the most important people in my working life: my students.

Seri0sly* Tamping

2009-09-14T20:42:00.003+01:00

I actually got genuinely angry today, which is a rare event for me. What was that? A difficult student? Nope. An annoying colleague? Absolutely not. Red tape? Not even close.

As I was teaching a class of seniors, the phone in my classroom rang. Upon answering, I was asked to go to the school office. I explained that I was teaching but the secetary insisted I was to report there immediately, suggesting I ask a colleague to watch over my charges. Cold fear began to trickle down my spine: I was sure only bad news could await me.

My mind racing with potential scenarios, all of them horrific, I left the adjoining door between my classroom and Matt's open and hurried to the office, only to find...

....the local intrepid reporter.

As aforementioned, this gentleman has been after me since day one. I have evaded his attempts to photograph me to date, as is my right, but as I am aware that it's good publicity for the school and how prestigious the Fulbright scheme is here in the US, I have maintained that I will co-operate with him in every other respect. He's twice been provided with my contact details with the promise of an interview if he is to arrange a convenient time yet, until today, I'd heard nothing.

Evidently he has no awareness of the professional responsibility of a teacher or respect for the job that we do, as he had the audacity to ask me for quotes he could use in his feature and a photograph - right there and then! He'd refused to take no for an answer from the office staff, insisting he see me immediately. I explained to him, as calmly and politely as I could, that should he wish to arrange a mutually convenient time to talk I will provide him with anything he wants to know...except a photograph. I instead offered him a number of equally relevant photographic alternatives, none of which he was prepared to accept. Clearly, he was determined to go round in circles so, eager to return to the purpose of this whole exchange, I firmly told him if he really wants the feature, he needs to arrange a more suitable time to talk. Honestly! The cheek of the man.

* I do know how to spell 'seriously' - it's deliberate corruption for use on the interwebs and 'tamping' is Wenglish for really angry...or heavy rain...

Life Is Peachy

2009-09-12T02:46:00.002+01:00

School life, that is. As I write this, I have completed my second week of school and I'm really rather pleased with myself. All my lessons to date have gone smoothly (here's to them staying that way) and I've even mastered the discombobulating rotation of classes and strange end- times to lessons: I've finished each lesson bang on time.

Aside from having to bombard Kristin with questions about the way she assesses the tasks she sets (to ensure that everything's the way she wants it upon her return), I think I've managed to ask the minimum of my colleagues - or at least I hope I have. They're incredibly supportive but I do like to be independent and am perfectly used to hitting the ground running, in a strange system, and just going with it. Also, as teachers here can really pretty much do as they please, lesson-wise, many of my colleagues haven't used the same tasks or texts. Assessment is definitely the only area in which my confidence wanes: it's become clearer over the last week but I still get confused over the exact difference between a test and a quiz and when you use them. The fact that students can and do get graded on doing work in class (basically, staying on task - American students expect to be graded for literally everything they do and are highly unlikely to produce anything if they're not getting credit for it) is also confusing to me as deciding on a mark out of one hundred for each student for classwork feels a bit like I'm basically pulling a grade out of the air!

I'm still stuggling with the early starts too: I've been early for work every single day but I really do feel very ill until around half way through the morning. The actress in me (the one that only comes out when I'm in a classroom...I think) has enabled me to do what I believe is at least a passable job at my usual enthusiastic delivery of content, even if I'm actually feeling below par. Even though school is over by two in the afternoon, I'm not really making the most of the rest of my day: to me, it feels like about 8pm. I've actually been going to bed here much earlier than ever before during my adult, or even teenage, life.

I love my classes though. Even the surly College Prep class are now responding to my greetings and my teaching. They've tried it on a few times, so I've reaffirmed my expectations and even the lesson which crossed both sides of lunch today - Friday - wasn't a problem. Drama games work well as starters and plenaries and I even got them to adhere to a period of silent individual work. The other College Prep class are sweeties. My seniors and AP students are simply delightful - as much as I love Fairfield, I've missed having A Level students and so it's been nice to teach at that level again. They're providing me with a brilliant insight into local culture in addition to enjoyable lessons. Diligent and enthusiastic, they produce high quality work on time, every time. This week we've been working on resumes and college application (read 'university') essays, which has been an enlightening process. Most rewarding of all, several students in every single class that I teach have repeatedly asked me to stay for the year! It's probably just talk, with an agenda, but it's still nice to hear. That said, I do miss my younger students, my form class and all the bouncing around in my socks that would usually be an integral part of my teaching.

I'm also on top of all the grading - marks get entered in a 'rankbook' on an application called IPass - and hope that I can remain so. I've been using my prep time effectively: I've also put up a display of the bio poems produced by every class and planned and prepared resources for the next week. The computers in the library are booked (another unfamiliar system successfully navigated) and I've begun getting my head around the Literature textbooks. Teachers here don't routinely get taken for cover for most of the year (though that's now also true of the UK too, except for Fairfield where the teachers have less classes on their timetables than the national average, so any cover isn't actually eating into the preparation time they're entitled to) though their 'duty' is an entire 67 minute lesson every seven days, as opposed to a fifteen minute break duty once a week. My duty is in the foyer, which I'm told is a good location. I must sit at a desk and check on any students who pass/ try to leave the building. Staff on duty can use the time to mark or read, though they will most likely be routinely interrupted. Mine seemed very long indeed, and I'll be sure to have a fleece with me for the next one: it's cold down there!

Teachers must also attend an hour-long after school meeting once a fortnight on a Tuesday. Our first one was this week. Facilitated by the local police, we received a presentation on 'lock downs'. Since Columbine, American high schools all have a lock down system where, upon a tannoy announcement, teachers must check the corridor, gather in any straggelers, lock their classroom door and herd their students into the corner furthest from the door and windows. Lights and any equipment must be switched off and everyone is to remain in this position until a signal is raised. In the event of a real scenario, local police would not wait for a SWAT team, as was the case with Columbine. Instead, they would immediately enter the building in search of the attacker(s). Disturbingly, we were also shown a video of the weapons high school students have brought into schools and where they've hidden them. The guy in the film had a grand total of one hundred and twenty concealed about his person, including a pen that has a blade concealed within it. I really hope that these precautions never become necessary in the UK.

I will end with an observation that amused me when travelling home one day this week. I've been staying after school most days, but on this given day I left at quarter past two. As I reached the junction for my street, I discovered I was behind one of the yellow school buses (which cannot fail to make me think of South Park, for some reason). It turned right, as I needed to do, and then immediately stopped - literally at the end of the road, meaning I could not make the turn. Initially puzzled, I watched as a little red 'Stop!' sign popped out of the driver's side and the students begin to disembark. As there's no public bus service here, there are no bus stops. Therefore, the bus has to stop in the middle of the road and the 'Stop!' sign becomes necessary. I aim to capture this digitally before my exchange comes to an end: it's a must-see!

Marmite: you either love it or hate it....

2009-09-12T02:30:00.003+01:00

...most people here seem to hate it!

On Labor Day itself, I attended a cook out (that's a BBQ to you and I) at my friend Michele's house in Worcester. We were asked to bring something to share, which I did, but I also decided to take along a jar of Marmite as it was something Michele and I had discussed and she was up for trying it.

As it turned out, several people got in on the act. Unsurprisingly, it turned out to be none too popular on the whole and the jar ended up accompanying me home at the end of the night! The consenus seemed to be it'd be better as an ingredient in a soup or some other concoction, as opposed to spread on toast. Watching the expressions as each person had their first taste of the rich, yeasty goodness was a joy to behold: I captured them all on camera. I think Marmite-tasting sessions may well become my entertainment option of choice at times when there's not much else on!

Aside from torturing my new friends, the day was really rather pleasant: good food, good company and lots of laughs. Michele even made me a special garlic-free dip so that I could join in with the eating-of-nibbles, a gesture that really touched me.

All-in-all, the Labor Day weekend was a good un'; definitely a good alternative to a British bank holiday (which don't exist here). I look forward to the next one, Columbus Day, with eager anticipation...especially as Ry will be here then, experiencing it with me *bounce* :D

G33k H34v3n

2009-09-12T02:08:00.007+01:00

'There are only 10 types of people in this world; those who understand binary and those who don't'

(I don't know the original source, so I'll instead credit Mr Neil Lewis for that one ;))

Last Sunday, Michelle and Ronnie took me on a tour of Boston. We parked under Boston Common and embarked on a tour of the Freedom Trail (a brick line that weaves its way round all the historical places in Boston - what a fantastic idea!) led by a costumed guide. Finally, all the snippets of American history I'd been hearing slotted together. The tour only took us through a section of the Trail and I fully intend walking the rest at a later date. A Duck Tour (which takes you around the city in a vehicle that travels on both land and water) is on the cards, too.

The highlight of the day, however, was a trip to the Massachusetts Institute of Technology - aka the MIT. My primary reason for wanting to see the campus was not because it's known for producing some of the greatest minds, possibly in the history of ever, or its technological prestige: I'd promised my very good friend, Tom (mykins) that I'd go there and provide a pictorial tour. The campus has some amazing architecture and interactive glass-walled buildings which could keep me occupied for hours (I'm easily pleased!). I fully intend returning to the campus to spend some time at the museum: so expect more on this place in the coming weeks.

WaterFire #2

2009-09-09T01:35:00.000+01:00

WaterFire #1

2009-09-06T17:36:00.006+01:00

WaterFire is an event held in Providence, Rhode Island several times over the summer season. Once dusk falls, around one hundred bonfires are lit on the canal system. Music is played and visitors can take a gondala or boat ride past them. There's also a fire juggler (he's above and also in #3). Whilst I'd have liked more of a history to the event, it is pretty magical and smells just like Bonfire night!

Press play on the eye before you start reading...please:

2009-09-05T23:08:00.007+01:00

*assumes best Geordie accent*

Day One - 06.50

Day one teaching at Northbridge High School. Having been told by a colleague to aim to arrive before 7am as the traffic situation isn't especially easy to navigate once the buses and parents are there, I pulled up in the 'parking lot' with ten minutes to spare. Despite it being early September, my alarm had gone off when it was still dark, and, being a night owl, I was feeling far from my best...unfortunately for me, this is to be my life for the next sixteen weeks.

The high school system here is very different to the UK equivalent. School starts at 07.20 (aka stupid o'clock). There is no registration (the electronic attendance taken at the start of period one counts for this purpose) and so teachers here are teaching by 07.25. I'm pretty sure most of the students are struggling as much as I am to function on any level at that hour, so just how productive this start time is remains to be seen. Being the first day, the timetable was a one-off seven period day, meaning lessons were on average around 45 minutes. As there's only a ten minute break after lesson one (for this teachers remain in the corridors or with students - I'm missing Kath and her flapjacks already) and a twenty five minute lunch around 11am (yes, 11am!!!!! That's technically breakfast, not lunch, if you ask me). Lunch also forms part of an extended lesson, based on a rota according to the floor you're on. So I have students for twenty minutes, then we go to lunch and after twenty five minutes they return and the lesson resumes for a further hour. Teachers here teach pretty much straight through from 07.20 to 11.23 without any sort of break! Lesson-wise, the seven period day was like a weird form of speed dating (minus the dating part, of course).

Being used to Fairfield, I was initially surprised by how rude the students seemed: they wander into classrooms without knocking or even acknowledging the teacher; no one lines up; chewing gum is generally accepted (although staff *are* free to make their own rules - the words 'fighting', 'losing' and 'battle' come to mind) and, with my first college prep class, only one of the 17 or so students responded when I greeted them at the door. Also, when I invited said class to note down a stereotype and/ or question about Wales or the UK and post it under a series of magnets on the board, I had zero response. Not one student wanted to know anything. They did, however, sit in silence and followed my instructions without any problems.

As the day progressed, I realised that that class were not indicative of all US students. Most are genuinely interested in the culture difference and pleased to have me teaching them: I have some lovely classes. The youngest students I teach here are sixteen years of age, so it's a little different to what I'm used to but I'm really enjoying having 'A-level' students again. I was also pleased that nearly all my seniors responded to me greeting them at the door! The rest of my classes seemed pleased to have the opportunity to ask questions about my country. The stereotypes were interesting: having tea and crumpets was a frequent one but I also had the 'bad teeth' stereotype cropping up - again. One student even wrote that Brits don't have much need of electricity as we mainly live in huts in the hills! Most heart warming were the comments that appeared, several times over, from each class ' 'it's true that you have cool accents'.

Each lesson passed quickly and by the end of the day, I felt I'd started to gain an insight into the students who will be in my charge until Christmas. The school day ends at 13.55, but to someone who's only had a twenty five minute break in seven hours, it feels more like 20.55! Goodness knows what coming home to hours of marking every night is going to feel like.

Day Two - 12.50

My timetable is somewhat jammy, in that I have a free period every afternoon, after lunch. Teachers here have one - sometimes two - free periods a day, though the timetable runs over a seven day period so the total number will vary each week. Lessons last for sixty-seven minutes and one of these free periods will be spent on duty, supervising the foyer, but for now I have been able to enjoy the time to prepare for the next day. As there is a four minute passing period between each lesson, they all end at really weird times - like 10.48, 11.23 and 12.56. Today was the first day of a 'proper' five period day (which has entirely different times to the seven period day) and although I am still bemused and confused by the times on the schedule, I successfully managed to end each lesson right on time!

Having only taught my Honors and AP students, today was really rather pleasant. Which was fortunate as I'd had even less sleep than afforded by the ridiculous start time due to a rather horrific non school-related nightmare. We worked on letters of introduction and chatted about cultural differences. I'm starting off doing pretty much excatly what Kristin would do, though I did build in some of my own activities and a smidge of AfL, which seemed to work well. Within the first two lessons,the Superintendent of the district and both Principal and vice Principal came in, at various points, on a 'walk through'; they were doing this to everyone (I did wonder!!), I later learned. The Administration seem very supportive, which is nice.

One thing I simply cannot get used to is the tannoy system. Every classroom has a speaker built into the wall and every morning at the end of lesson one, the call will come for us to all stand and face the flag to pledge allegiance. This is followed by announcements. However, the tannoy frequently crackles into life, mid-lesson, to make an announcement, meaning the teacher and students have to pause in the middle of whatever they're doing/ saying and listen. One tannoy message instructed us teachers to check our emails! My students tell me sometimes a message will be delivered to individual teachers this way, too. Personally, that's a little too reminiscent of the telescreens in 1984 for my liking! Similarly, teachers can be contacted mid lesson via the phone in their room, even for matters which do not relate to the class that they teach.

Day Three - 15.30

I am pleased to report that my first week ended smoothly. I had the vice Superintendent walk through with the Principal today and she commented that she liked my lesson objectives; she also seemed impressed with what we'd been doing. Good times! I am aiming to keep the grading systems here in place but introduce more AfL too, along with my own style of delivery, as it's worked well thus far.

All the lessons went well - even with *the* college prep class. They did try it on initially but I reiterated my expectations and remained calm and consistent, despite the best efforts of one student who was really quite rude. Gradually, they began to meet my expectations (at least, for now!) and they ended up being the first, and only, class to applaud my letter of introduction to them! I don't believe they were employing sarcasm, either: they've finally started to ask questions about my culture and the difference with schools. Bizarrly, the turning point seemed to be when I told them that when I'm happy, I bounce. Go figure!

The rest of my classes were as lovely as ever. I was touched when reading through the letters of introduction written by the honors classes as many had said how pleased - more than one even used 'honoured' - to have me here, teaching them and that they hope I have a fantastic term. I'm encouraging them to dare to be an individual, injecting originality and creativity into all that they do, and their letters showed promise. I've also had several students imploring me to teach them for the whole year!

My students have given me the best insight into the school system so far. UK students have it so much better, I think. High school students here have to pay a sum of money at the start of each school year to entitle them to participate in any school-run activities. Those who play sports pay an additional fee - and it's not cheap. They are also expected to equip themselves with notebooks (in place of exercise books) and for some courses, they must buy textbooks also. And this is the comprehensive system, not private! Many of them work, meaning they finish school around 2pm and then work from 3 - 9pm. Only then can they start on their homework. Due to the grading system, where *everything* counts, if they are late submitting their homework they will probably get a zero. Homework has a much lower percentage in terms of their grade point average but it is still a tough penalty. I'm interested in how much of an effect it has on the sort of students who are perpetually in detention in the UK for not having their homework.

So it's all been good so far, but I've not yet had to really get my head around the multiple deadlines for each class each week: vocab tests, pop quizzes, tests etc etc...that bundle of joy awaits me after the Labor day weekend (like a bank holiday weekend, though I'm still trying to find someone who can tell me the background behind it).

Will I manage to cope with the amazingly complex grading system? You decide!

Professional Development. Ish.

2009-09-02T02:02:00.003+01:00

Today was my first taste of professional development for teachers in the US. The District has employed Teacher's Consltant Dr Jerry Goldberg to facilitate the next three PD days (there will be follow-up days in October and November too). Goldberg's theme was the District's focus for this year: High Expectations and Active Engagement for All Learners. Teachers from the middle and high school gathered in the Media Centre for an 8am start. Upon signing in, we each received a packet (booklet to you and I) containing information and activities on: high standards; VAK strategies and learning styles (called modalities here); building context and prior knowledge; using the 10-2 rule (basically breaking down lesson content and allowing time for processing); having whole class, group, paired and individual activities in lessons; self reflection and assessment; student engagement (and what it looks like); Carousel Brainstorming (it's ok to say 'brainstorming' here (!)); differentiation and the jigsaw technique...pretty much, in fact, everything a UK teacher covers as part of their training (I know I did back in 2000 - 2001). I imagine it's the same for US teachers too...though some of the terminology differs: no one here has ever heard of a plenary!

Goldberg took us through each of the aforementioned areas, probing us with questions and asking us to complete the exercises in the packet. I did rather like the exercise he used, which he himself got from a course, where he asked us all to fold our arms and then look at whether our right or left arm was in front. He then asked us to try and fold them the opposite way, which, for most, is more difficult. Try it! As a general rule, those who have their left arm to the front (like me) are visual learners (correct), those who have their right arm to the front are auditory learners and those who have no preference or who didn't agree with their category are usually kinesthetic learners. We were then allocated a number and asked to stand next to a sheet of flipboard paper. The paper contained a question. Two groups worked independently on each question (there were five in total), writing in a particular coloured pen. Every five minutes we were asked to move in a clockwise direction (this will sound familiar to some of my colleagues and students, I'm sure) and add to the ideas on the next question...and so on, until all five questions had been answered. The questions were all based around the theme and I was surprised at my level of input: everything we do in the UK, daily, basically addresses them. After a short break, we then teamed up with the group who had been working on the same question as us with the aim of summarising the content into three key points, which we then had to present to everyone.

Goldberg encouraged us to use his praise system, which involved counting to three and then giving a single clap, after each presentation. We were also encouraged to provide feedback on what we'd liked about the presentation, much like Fairfield students habitually do, especially in Drama.

After another short break for lunch (which, for me, was spent in my classroom, frantically trying to prepare for my students' arrival tomorrow), Goldberg continued to take us through his packet. The main focus of the afternoon was differentiaton (again, I was reminded of my PGCE as it was definitely a buzz word then too). This time, we were divided into home groups for a jigsaw activity. We chose numbers and then moved into expert groups, with the aim of reading a page of text on 'Differentiated Instruction' and synthesise the information so that we could feed it back to the members of our home groups. Each 'expert' was given four minutes to provide feedback...I managed it in one minute and four seconds. Read into that what you will!

Finally, we were again assigned a number and put into one of fourteen groups, each working on one of seven tasks (it was, I think, meant to be competitive, though this wasn't really followed up, possibly as we ran over time). The tasks were all meant to show us what we could do with our students to get them to synthesise information. Our objective was the same: to summarise what differentiated instruction is and isn't. The tasks ranged from making to columns of bullet points, to making an acrostic poem, drawing images, writing a recipe and providing a 3,2,1 of features. My group were asked to divide our paper into four and think of four common objects. We chose: a pencil; a chair; a car and a shoe. We were then asked to think of similes we could make using these objects and differentiation, such as 'some pencils are sharper than others' or 'everyone needs a different kind of shoe'. Once again, we had to present our work to everyone and by the time we'd all finished, we were almost fifteen minutes after our scheduled finish time of 2pm.

The rest of the packet will be covered in October. A quick flick through tells me the areas we have to look forward to are: higher and lower order thinking; power words; what learning will look like; tiered activities and scaffolding; KUD (which is like KWL) and cubing (for my department, this last one is on the 'Boys will be Boys' course feedback on commonstaff).

Ish

2009-09-01T03:01:00.003+01:00

I am not a morning person. Therefore having to be in school by 7.30am for my very first day at Northbridge High School this morning (and that's late by 'normal' standards - I'll be aiming for 7am from Wednesday onwards) was somewhat of a shock to the system! I arrived not-so-bright and early, joining teachers from all over the district for coffee, pastries and a chat in the bright and airy foyer.

This was a 'teacher's day', no pupils; more of an easing-in to the new school year. We gathered in the vast theatre (of the like I've never seen in a school) and were greeted by the Superintendent of the district, Susan Gorky. She introduced the Administration team (SLT to the UK contingent) and asked the new teachers to stand: each introduction was punctuated with applause. The auditorium was then asked to stand, en masse, and pledge allegiance. Witnessing this was incredible - every person around me stood, with their hand over their heart, speaking in unison. The only other time I've ever experienced anything close to it (and it wasn't really *that* close) was when on a day's supply at a Catholic school in Cardiff a class and the Headteacher chanted and made a series of hand gestures at the start of a lesson. This was followed by a recent graduate, Susan, singing the anthem. She did so without accompaniment: a beautiful rendition. The Superintendent then spoke of her vision for the coming year. The theme of the district for this year is 'High Expectations and Active Engagement for All Learners'. She spoke of what this might look like in the classroom: an Ofsted lesson!

A motivational speaker, children's author Peter Reynolds, then spoke to us of how to engage the disengaged and generally improve our teaching. His central message was that the key to success is to really endeavour to get to know your students as individuals and use this information to bring out the best in them - which is exactly what Fairfield does best! I think this must pose more of a challenge in a larger school such as NHS than at Fairfield but I wholeheartedly agree with the sentiment nonetheless! Reynolds also pressed the importance of creativity and encouraging students to think for themselves; again, exactly what we do in the UK! He read (and projected) some of his stories, one of which was called 'Ish', which emphasises the importance of being an indivdual and giving anything a go... it quickly became the word of the day and I suspect, will become a faculty in-joke for some time to come! How teacher-ish! ;)

Reynolds' speech was followed by a quick break, during which time the elementary and middle school teachers departed for their own buildings. The High School staff met in the Media Centre (aka the library) for housekeeping and a discussion of the policies for the coming year: NHS has a new Principal who, coming from the middle school, is known and respected by his colleagues. He nabbed me for the 'getting to know you' exercise on the new teacher orientation day and we chatted at length; I am going to enjoy working with him. New staff were again introduced and applauded - I was given a loud round of applause and even some cheering, much to my surprise! I think people are perhaps more openly enthusiastic here. It's nice but is taking some getting used to - especially as I hate being the centre of attention (I'm still evading the local press!). The staff of NHS appear to be down to earth, friendly and welcoming: I will be supported here.

We then moved into departments with a central set of questions to discuss and return to Administration. These were mainly focused on how to improve the school, teaching and learning - specifically student engagement. As with the UK, the consensus was on consistency and differentiation (which brings us back to knowing our students as individuals). I was asked to explain the House system at Fairfield as NHS doesn't have an equivalent system.

Finally, we were given time to prepare for the arrival of our students on Wednesday. I put together a rather hastily made display of all things Welsh, based on the most common questions I have been asked, and also a section for Fairfield. I hope to use this board to generate discussiona and dispel stereotypes!

Tomorrow we are in at 8am (a lie in!) for a Professional Development day. Which will be interesting...ish! Then, on Wednesday, the real work shall begin!

Vermont

2009-09-01T03:00:00.002+01:00

You know what they say...

2009-09-01T01:56:00.002+01:00

...about all work and no play, right?! I made the most of my final week of freedom, thanks to my new colleagues and friends.

On Thursday, Michelle took me to Vermont to see some of the covered bridges. Vermont ('the green state') is beautiful and reminded me very much of home. It's more open than the places I've been to thus far and predominantly farmland, with hills never far away (ahh, hills, how I've missed you :D). Some of the roads were interesting though - mainly gravel covered! We passed what appeared to be houses selling maple syrup (they tap it directly from the tree - I am to witness this process before I leave) and pretty little farms before arriving at the first of the bridges. Built in the 1800s, the bridges were covered to protect them. They became known as 'kissing bridges' as they were the only places lovers could stop and get privacy. Usually painted red, they are pretty structures and we spent a pleasant afternoon photographing them whilst eating my imported Curly Wurlys! I am told Vermont is spectacular in the fall, and that it makes great cheese, so expect more on this state in a few weeks.

Friday brought an injection of history and culture. Matt, who proved to be an incredibly knowledgeable tour guide, took me to Concord, home of the Transcendentalists (Emerson and Thoreau) and the authors of Little Women and The Scarlet Letter. Concord is also the location of several significant events from the American Revolution, most involving the loss of British infantry! Concord is a lovely little town in its own right, but enriched with Matt's knowledge, it was an enchanting place.

Michele provided me with my much-needed rock fix on Saturday; we went to a bar in Worcester where there was an AC/DC tribute band and several support acts. Touch 2 Much were an interesting ensemble, putting their own twist on playing the Highway to Hell and Back in Black albums, almost in their entirety. By the end of the show, half the females present in the audience were gyrating on stage which is something I have (thankfully) not witnessed before. Needless to say, I didn't join them!

Wheels

2009-09-01T00:38:00.003+01:00

'Wheels,
Burnin’ down the road, hitting overload'
AC/DC

I am pleased to report that I am now fully mobile! Good times! Aside from the occasional left-hand-randomly-changing-gear tick (!) and the odd clutch pedal moment, I now cruise the roads feeling pretty relaxed. I've driven at night, in torrential rain and on the highway, too. Being on the *right* side of the road is still a little odd, but I must have adjusted as Kristin's video of driving up the hill to my house made me feel distinctly nervous...as though the car was on the *wrong* side of the road. Bizarre. I'm becoming more concerned about my driving upon my return home than for the duration of my time here!

All I needed in the end was to believe in myself. Although credit must be given to WAAF FM (www.waaf.com - check it out as you can listen online for free and it's closest thing I can get to Bogiez!) as, as my constant companion, the rockin' tunes they air have been doing what good music does best: absorbing me entirely whilst simultaneously empowering me: some old school 'DC helped me to successfully navigate a tricky junction with ease! Having only brought one CD with me (as I have an ipod and itunes on my laptop) this station never ceases to brighten my day: Tool, Korn, old school Metallica, 'DC, 'Sabbath and Godsmack are all staples on the playlists. WAAF is a piece of Massachusetts I will definitely be taking home with me!

Armed with this musical artillery (no, not the Thrash band - no capital 'A' ;)), I have ventured solo several times now, exploring malls and the local 'shoppes' (I kid you not - that's the actual spelling for a retail park near Northbridge) in a bid to do some dreaded shopping for school trousers (aka 'pants') and shoes...seeing as I actually have to wear them this term (boo!). The retail park was much the same as those in the UK and the mall was a smaller version of Cribbs Causeway (though I have since been told there are better malls in the vicinity). Shopping in Macy's, a department store, the biggest difference I noticed was that there is no tag system for changing rooms - often they're individual and you can just walk on in - and even when a shopper uses a 'manned' one they are responsible for returning any unwanted clothes themselves.

Each state is responsible for determining its own taxes and the nice thing about Massachusetts is that clothes aren't taxed. I therefore found clothes shopping relatively inexpensive. Though, sadly, still traumatic! Food shopping is much the same, cost-wise, as in the UK, albeit more confusing as food isn't taxed but other products (such as kitchen roll) are...though the prices on display aren't inclusive of tax. Being somewhat numerically challenged (tax in Mass is currently 6.something %), I am therefore never *quite* sure what I'm actually going to be paying! It's the same in restaurants, where neither tax nor tips are included in the menu price. So whilst at face value it seems quite cheap, once the tax and a 20% tip have been added, an average meal is roughly equivalent to its UK counterpart (though minus the magical refills).

The experience of shopping, especially food shopping, is interesting in other ways, too. Being in a supermarket here is like being in an alternate universe - it all looks roughly the same at first glance, but on closer inspection, it's really not. The supermarkets here are a little bigger than those closest to my house, and more equivalent to the average size in the UK. There are, however, wider selections of some products, such as processed meats, dips and boxed goods. I think the ice-cream section is larger too, and some tubs are so large that they could come in handy for washing the family car when they've been emptied! Actually, most products come in larger standard sizes - economical for families but I'm conscious of the waste factor when you're buying for one: bottled fruit juice, for example, is generally sold in huge cartons or individual portion bottles. There is a large selection of chilled bottled coffee creamer - it's like the stuff you get in small pots in cafes in the UK but people use it instead of milk here, often flavoured with vanilla or some other substance. Boxed products seem popular, notably powdered drink mixes and dried mac 'n' cheese.

Being allergic to both garlic and onions, I've really struggled as they're in pretty much anything that's been prepared here, whether that's in a supermarket or a restaurant. Not that I mind too much as I usually prepare fresh produce myself anyway and there's a farm shop nearby that I can use for just such a purpose. I've noticed other differences with foods, too: bread products taste as though they have more sugar in them; recognised brands of chocolate (like Cadbury's) neither look nor taste the same; hot dog sausages are abundant but the sort of sausage we have in the UK is harder to find and brands are generally unfamilar and those that aren't look unfamiliar. It's really interesting as I'd not really considered the differences I'd find in the minutiae of these everyday things. I'm aiming to try as many unfamilar brands and products as possible in my time here in the effort to squeeze as much out of this experience as I can!

A question I'm often asked is what food I miss and I've struggled to answer as I'm not especially attached to anything to *that* extent. However, yesterday I had a sudden craving for a Sunday roast, something I don't believe I can actually get here...except maybe on Thanksgiving! Oddly, it's something I rarely have at home...go figure!

But I digress - I believe the focus of this missive was actually being on the road, not food! Although there are parallels between the two: again, there are many differences, aside from the obvious. Speed limits frequently alter on a given section of any road and they're generally slower than those in the UK. Near a stop sign (which are frequent and cars MUST stop at them), the speed will drop to 25 miles per hour. On a highway, the speed limit is usually 55 miles per hour. As I travel have to stay alert as the speed limit signs on a stretch of road may look something like this: 30 > 35 <25> 35 > 40 < 30. Junctions have a flashing red or amber overhead light and a 'first come, first served' system. At traffic lights, cars can turn right on a red light. Pedestrian crossings are just two painted lines and there aren't any lights to mark them so drivers have to be vigilant: they're meant to stop. Town pedestrian crossings have a 'countdown' system and a white man instead of our green one. Few crossings have buttons to press to control the lights. Round-a-bouts (aka Rotaries) are seldom found but if you encounter one you *have* to keep moving...and to the right! The biggest difference for me, is, however, that using a mobile whilst driving is legal, though it's currently in debate.

Having not driven abroad before I'm fascinated by these differences...my next challenge will be to navigate the many tolls and busy junctions to reach Boston Logan when my boyfriend visits. Wish me luck!

A day trip to Wales!

2009-08-25T05:42:00.004+01:00

Today, Kristin's friend Diane - a British ex-pat - took me to the town of Wales, Mass. There's nothing particularly special about Wales, Mass but I wanted to be able to say I'd gone there!

Diane lives in the town of Oxford, which is about a twenty-five minute drive from Northbridge. I'd resolved to get there under my own steam; no easy task considering I've previously only driven on actual roads a total of four times, under careful supervision and for very short distances. Actually, I think my previous fears were just that - completely in my head - as I completed the journey (even navigating lucky dip truck drivers doing silly things) with ease, feeling relatively relaxed and enjoying both the sunshine and the aural delights being delivered to me courtesy of WAAF FM: Disturbed, The Offspring, Metallica and Godsmack.

Diane's home is stunning - set on a corner plot of a peaceful lane, it is surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens, with a small waterfall cascading towards the decking area. Inside it is lovely and light and airy, with white walls, natural wood and neutral furnishings. She has a cat who could be the twin of my Willow - grey and white, with a dainty face. It is a peaceful home and I instantly felt relaxed there.

Diane drove us to the historic town of Sturbridge for lunch and then onto Wales itself. Most locals don't actually seem to know much about Wales; I guess there's not really any need for them to go there. It is, in actual fact, a rather pleasant little town (although, geographically, it's really not that small). Most towns here look rather alike: they have a centre which consists of a green (either sporting a bandstand or a flagpole); a town hall; a library and at least one (probably white slatted and very pretty) church. From this centre, roads spread in every direction. They will probably lead to a school, a police station and many, many forested roads dotted with large slatted houses, all individual yet also somehow rather alike. Wales is no exception to this. It even has its own lake with natural beach, which is another common feature of the towns here.

The only thing seemingly lacking from Wales was a shopping area or eating establishments (most towns have a smattering of pizza places/ a Dunkin' Donuts/ McDonald's/ Burger King/ a quirky cafe and/ or diner plus a small retail park, akin to Newport Road in the 'diff, or those in Merthyr or Cwmbran. Not that I minded this: unlike most of my gender, I hate shopping!

Diane and I explored the local cemetary, looking for Welsh names and concluded that the town had, in actual fact, acquired its name from a founder called Mr Wales (as there was a gravestone engraved with this very name). We also found a family plot reminiscent of the opening to Great Expectations: the graves of a mother and father, next to five small stones - those of their infant children.

After a delicious meal with Diane and her husband, I navigated my way back to Northbridge - in the dark and via a gas station, where a pump attendant filled my tank for me! I found it hard to get away from the attendant as he seemed fascinated by my reason for being there (as in, in New England, as opposed to in the gas station filling my car with petrol), asking me endless questions. I left to his assurances that I was going to be brilliant teaching here and his best wishes. Driving home also went smoothly; the roads seemed very like those back home in the dark. And, of course, I had a further dose of aural pleasure. Good times!

Red Sox, Fenway Park, Boston

2009-08-25T05:37:00.001+01:00

Me? Watching Sport?! Surely not…

2009-08-25T05:33:00.001+01:00

On Saturday Michele and her friend John took me to Boston to watch the two biggest baseball rivals – the Rex Sox (Boston) and the Yankees (New York) play at the infamous Fenway Park Stadium. Not that we were actually *in* the stadium; tickets are hard to come by as every game sells out and most season ticket holders have to inherit their seats! Now, back home, I would never so much as entertain the idea of watching any sort of sport as it bores the (British) pants off me, but when in Rome and all that. Baseball is incredibly popular here, possibly more popular than any sport in the UK and so I’m glad that I was able to experience this one as it’s given me a far better insight into the local culture than I could otherwise have obtained.

The area surrounding Fenway Park was awash with all manner of red and navy Red Sox attire, with a peppering of dull grey Yankees shirts for good measure. Adorned in a borrowed Red Sox t-shirt, I fitted right in! The atmosphere was electric – something I’ve only ever previously experienced whilst at a gig. Fans filled the streets and the humid air was heady with the aroma of hot dogs. The excitement was tangible.

Being in a bar, with good food, drinks aplenty and a generous sprinkle of cheesy rock music helped to make the experience all the more enjoyable for me. I was fascinated by the game at first – trying to make sense of it, with Michele’s help. Our closest equivalent would be Rounders, I think. A Rounders game which lasts an average of three-and-a-half hours! The bar was packed with supporters, every eye riveted to the huge screens displayed at every available angle. They cheered loudly, clapped madly and sung along to whatever song was played when the Rod Sox were scoring. I was fortunate enough to see a good game – the Red Sox beat the Yankees 14-1. These two teams had already played each other the evening before (and they were to play again the following day, with each game’s score counting separately). When the game was finally over, everyone – except me, it seemed – broke into a rendition of ‘Sweet Caroline’, which I now understand to be something of a tradition (Michele gave me the film ‘Fever Pitch’ to watch as ‘homework’ but I only saw it after the event) and this was followed, much to my surprise, by the Dropkick Murphy’s ‘Tessie’. I had no idea that they were affiliated with the Red Sox or that ‘Tessie’ is some kind of unofficial theme song for when the Red Sox (finally) won (they’d had years and years of losing every game) back in 2004.

I don’t think I’ll ever be a sports fan but I’m really glad I got to experience the atmosphere – all-in-all, it was an enjoyable day!

Cape Cod

2009-08-25T05:01:00.002+01:00

Top of the World**

2009-08-25T04:46:00.000+01:00

One of the best experiences I have had thus far was a mini-holiday in Dennis, Cape Cod. As aforementioned, I’d been invited to spend a few days at a holiday rental with Michelle and it turned out to be just the tonic I needed to shake off my negativity and turn that corner: I found myself again, there on the beaches and with good company.

The drive up was pleasant – a distance roughly equivalent of Abergavenny to Exeter passed quickly. Michele was a brilliant companion and we chatted easily. We drove up at night and arrived at the sweet little cottage just after midnight. I immediately liked it: it was light, airy and, well, beachy! Inhaling the salty air whilst being caressed by the sea breeze, the change in my temperament was pretty much instantaneous. We settled in, nibbling on pretzels whilst we waited for the others to come home. When they did, I took an instant liking to Sharyn, Matt and Monique...who seemed equally pleased to meet the ‘Wale-ish’ girl (!)

I opted to sleep on the futon on the porch, as it was enclosed (and therefore private) and away from the noise of the fans. The sea breeze and welcoming quiet quickly lulled me into the best sleep I have enjoyed thus far, since leaving home. I awoke refreshed – and happy!

We breakfasted in the centre of Dennis. Cranberries are a local speciality (summat to do with providing sailors with vitamin C, I believe) and I enjoyed the buttermilk cranberry pancakes, though the portion was way to big to finish. The rest of the day was spent at West Dennis beach. Now, I have never been one for sitting on beaches as I never tan anyways and I’ve always preferred to explore. However, two days at the beach made for a nice change and I found the experience to be relaxing. Luckily for me, Scott, a fellow red-head, came armed with a large umbrella and we were able to enjoy sitting in the shade.

Being extremely self conscious, I was positively over-dressed for the beach in cut off leggings and a sun dress. I never show the general public my legs or shoulders, so I was shocked when I was ordered to remove my ‘pants’! Fearing Michelle’s wrath ( ;) ), I complied though that merely encouraged her to set off on a mission to get me down to my swimming costume. She won. I ended up in the sea – something I never thought I’d do – which was lovely and warm, though sadly quite shallow and with a rocky and seaweed-covered floor.

When we returned to the house, I discovered my new favourite thing: open air showers! I was a little reluctant to try it at first but actually it was very private and showering with the sky above you and the breeze on your skin is an experience I’d recommend to anyone.

That night, Michelle, Michele and I headed to a different beach, Mayflower beach, which is on the opposite side of Dennis – the Atlantic side as opposed to the bay. This beach has dunes which gently slope into the water and the sand is, well, sandier! It’s more of a Mediterranean beach: the sea is crystal clear. We lay on the sand and listened to the sound of the waves whilst gazing at the myriad of stars which studded the night sky, ooh-ing and ahh-ing at the shooting stars we observed. We even think we saw a comet. It was magical.

Day two saw a return to see the ‘sandier’ beach in daylight. It was beautiful and we spent another pleasant afternoon, in an out of the water. Miraculously, I escaped sunburn, though I have freckles in places I have never had freckles before! We ended the day with a lovely meal cooked by Michele on the grill before heading for home.

I slept. I laughed. I gained perspective: I shall now appreciate the opportunity I have been given.

** PM5K ;)

Stereotype(s) **

2009-08-25T04:40:00.004+01:00

Thus far, the most common stereotypes folk here have for British people are:

We drive using kilometres.
We drink warm beer and pubs don’t have any ice to put in drinks.
We all have bad teeth!

Fascinating!

'When you are a skunk, you learn 'ow to 'old your breath for a long time.'

2009-08-24T02:40:00.002+01:00

So said Pepe le Pew, and having smelt my first skunk when driving back from Boston t'other night, I can quite see why. Even when safely ensconced in a moving car, with the windows fully up, the stench was overpowering and lingered for a fair distance. I'm not even sure what an accurate comparison would be: it was like inhaling all the evil in the world. No wonder that cat kept running away!

Hiraeth

2009-08-24T02:16:00.003+01:00

In a recent email from my mother, she commented that, for me, to feel homesick is almost to be expected - because of my nationality. 'It's a well known fact,' she wrote, 'that the Welsh take longer to settle in a new place than anyone else.' I pondered this for a while and concluded that she was probably right: after all, the Welsh language does have it's own word to express a deep longing for home, 'hiraeth'. If I were a better linguist I may know whether other languages have an equivalent. I suspect, however, that they don't: the sense of cultural identity is strong within any Welsh person; especially if that person is no longer in Wales!

Yet I do believe I've turned a corner; I'm settling, slowly, into my new environment but I think that hiraeth will remain within me until my feet are firmly back on the soil of my motherland.

When I went to University in Exeter, I distinctly recall that even though I loved my time there, an underlying hiraeth remained deep within me, calling me back to Wales once I'd graduated. It was also the only time in my life I'd actively listened to a Male Voice Choir! And funnily enough, when browsing some of Kristin's photos of the area around my house, I again began to 'hear' 'We'll Keep a Welcome in the Hillsides', a traditional Male Voice Choir song. A little bizarre, I agree, but I think the lyrics are poignant:

Far away a voice is calling,
Bells from memory do chime
Come home again, come home again,
They call through the oceans of time.

We'll keep a welcome in the hillside.
We'll keep a welcome in the Vales.
This land you knew will still be singing
When you come home again to Wales.

This land of song will keep a welcome
And with a love that never fails,
Well kiss away each hour of hiraeth
When you come home again to Wales.

Pondering...

2009-08-18T02:01:00.002+01:00

When shopping for bits and bobs at a local supermarket with Amber earlier, I happened upon a British section on the shelves. Now, homesickess (which I now have in its most literal sense. Joyous.) is a funny old thing: for the first time in my life, a packet of Coleman's sauce and a tub of McVities chocolate digestives evoked strong emotions in me. It's ridiculous, I know, but the presence of something familiar (branding is different here, even on familiar brands, or the product is the same but the names have been changed*) was actually rather comforting, whilst simultaneously make me long for home even more (not that I ever actually eat Coleman's packet sauces, but still...). I wonder if that is a global phenomenon, or just my own eccentricity?!

* to protect the innocent.

Boston

2009-08-17T16:44:00.002+01:00

UPDATE

2009-08-17T15:40:00.001+01:00

I drove on actual roads today, without endangering myself or others. Result!

Falling to Pieces

2009-08-16T21:54:00.006+01:00

I’ve now been in New England for just over a week, and in the States for almost exactly two weeks, and the honeymoon period has well and truly ended: this here FNM video pretty much sums up my current state of mind! That’s not to say that things here are awful – far from it. Everyone I’ve met has been incredibly welcoming, open and generous and I’ve been spoiled by their generosity. I couldn’t possibly have a stronger support network, on either side of ‘The Pond’. Yet, despite all this, I am struggling with the thought of being here, or, more specifically, being apart from my loved ones, until Christmas: right now, I desperately want to come home!

True to the theme of my (recent) life passing in a blur, this past week has been incredibly busy. Kristin has shown me around her town and introduced me to a plethora of locals, paving the way for me before she leaves for the UK. We’ve run endless errands…and I’ve been introduced to my new classroom and to driving, US-style. It was at the point where I was in the school ‘parking lot’, struggling with Kristin’s SAAB, that I began to fear that everything was not, in fact, going to be fine. Driving here terrifies me: everything is so unfamiliar and I am scared that even having mastered the basics, I am somehow going to end up causing an accident by automatically heading for what I perceive to be the ‘right’ side of the road (as opposed to the *right* side of the road, which is where I absolutely should be driving!). I also had a go at driving her son’s automatic Saturn, which was much easier to get to grips with, though I still find that I’m reluctant to attempt the open road. Having always been highly independent, the reliance I have had on others thus far (nothing’s really in walking distance) hasn’t helped my state of mind!

As a platinum card holder in perfectionism, failure isn’t an option. But the inability to immediately feel confident driving here did chip my confidence, a chip that quickly became a chasm after I’d been talked through the curriculum I’ll be teaching in a few weeks’ time. The education systems in the US and the UK couldn’t possibly be more different. The focus here is very much on teacher assessment: pretty much EVERY assignment/ homework carries some credit towards the students’ grade average, which they need to pass the year (and if they don’t, they re-sit the year). If a student isn’t graded for something, they aren’t likely to do it. And grades come in a myriad of forms: homework, quiz, vocab quiz, test…and that’s before you get to the *actual* exams, like MCAS! Each have a certain percentage of the overall grade and there are ‘rubrics’ (English department: these are similar to our matrices!) for the type of assignment given. Grades equal a score out of a hundred. There are also textbooks for pretty much everything. Add to this mix a timetable which rotates through A to G days, seemingly at random and you will pretty much get the formula which sparked my allusion to Faith No More’s classic tune. We were told we’d feel like a newly qualified teacher: I feel like a newly qualified teacher who was just handed a teaching certificate when all I’d actually been doing is watching endless re-runs of Jeremy Kyle. I want to do a good (neigh – a bloody fantastic) job here, to make my own school and family, and friends proud but right now, I’m simply terrified.

I believe my current desire to say, “you know what, I can’t do this” and make for the nearest airport is born largely from my fear of failure, but also from the fact that I’m really not coping with being apart from those I care about most…[/emo] But I wouldn’t want you to think this week has been all diagonal floppy fringes and shoe-gazing – far from it.

Kristin threw welcome/ leaving ‘cook out’ on Thursday where I was welcomed and spoiled by her closest friends and colleagues. I was given a host of lovely cards and gifts from my colleagues: a Yankee candle with the scent of ‘Home Sweet Home’, a real (and I’m assured, much coveted) American League baseball, a fantastic super-sized mug adorned with Massachusetts/ Boston colloquialisms and a book of the area, so that I can decide where I want to go! Everyone reassured me that they’re going to be there for me and that I’m going to be brilliant (oh, how I wish I could believe that!!). I got further offers of tour guides and visits, plus a place to go for Thanksgiving.

On Friday, I was taken to Boston by Michelle and Michele (the former has invited me to the Cape next week and the latter will be driving me there – what lovely and generous people) for dinner, a stroll and dessert in a fab café in the Italian quarter. We saw a street festival too (the slideshow of the evening should appear above this post). Saturday saw more generosity, this time from my colleague-to-be Amber and her husband Adam, who enabled me to get to WalMart and took me to meet their friends over drinks and dinner. They then dropped me at The Raven, Worcester, where I met Michele and her friends to watch no less than four rock/ metal/ punk bands (\m/). I even scored a free pass to the next gig night!

I am therefore trying to focus on these (most excellent) experiences and the fact that I should be making the most of this opportunity, in the hope that everything will be ok in the end…as someone entirely anonymous once said: 'Everything will be okay in the end; if it's not okay, it's not the end’

Home Sweet Home...

2009-08-10T04:22:00.004+01:00

'My heart's like an open book
For the whole world to read...'

Motley Crue

After a mere 48 hours of being in New England, it does indeed feel like home: I could have been here for months! From the minute I arrived at Logan Airport in Boston, I immediately felt at ease. Being met by Christina and her boyfriend helped - just like with Kristin, I immediately connected with them and from the moment we hugged hello, it was as if I'd known them for years. I was immensly grateful for the help with my luggage, too! The journey to Northbridge revealed a beautiful landscape: endless shades of green, golden in the sunset. The slatted houses and picket fences are really pretty and the whole area is peaceful. I feel safe here.

Just like Washington, everything is on a bigger scale and houses are enormous! Kristin's dogs - two beautiful golden retrievers - are also enormous and being very much a cat person, I hope I'm going to be able to handle them alone! On Saturday, Kristin took me to a party which could have been taking place on the set of 'Desperate Housewives' - the road looked just like it! The house was simply stunning, and so big mine could probably fit inside the garage(!) There was also a pool in the back garden (or 'yard'), which is normal here. I got introduced to lots of people, all of whom were incredibly friendly and welcoming; I have several offers of a place to go if I feel lonely and a list of people who want to take me out and show me places, which is fantastic. I was also introduced to a Year 6 student who has just been awarded a place on an 'Ambassador' programe - he'll be visiting all four corners of the UK next July - and his reaction to being told my nationality was astounding. He could not have appeared more awed or excited to be talking to me if I'd been introduced as a film star...or possibly even God! It was a very surreal scenario...I could get used to it ;)

The party had a live rock/ blues band playing on the lawn, which, upon discovering I rather like the Foo Fighters, dedicated 'Times Like These' to me. I had to go on the mic first though, and say my name and a few sentences so they could all hear the way I talk - and people keep repeating the things I say, mimicking my accent, which is also surreal. Everyone seems genuinely interested though, which is nice (even if I was mistaken for an Australian at one point!!). I'm also learning American colloquialisms, and may post a brief list at some point, if I have time. I also had my first real American hot dog (which doesn't look especially appetising but tastes great) and burger (which was out of this world), plus shrimps (king prawns to the UK contingent reading this) and clam chowder, which was yummy. Clam chowder is a typical dish here, as are steamed clams and lobster (both of which I tried today, by another pool, this time olympic-sized) but my favourite food at the time of writing has to be the pecan pie!

So what's it like here? I hate to repeat myself, but it really is just like the films! I'm going to be living and working in what is essentially 'Pleasantville', fourty or so years after the town became technicoloured, I've been to a party in a 'Desperate Housewives' type house and I've even got shopping from the supermarket in a huge paper bag (which caused me much excitement, much to Kristin's bemusement). I've been fascinated by the wildlife: tree frogs, possums and hummingbirds. The people are the friendliest and most generous I've ever met - the lobster and clams dinner today occurred simply because I'd said at the party I'd never eaten either and everyone I've met has told me I'm welcome in their home anytime and that they're all here for me. Tomorrow, I get to see inside my new school, and have a go at driving, both of which should prove to be interesting experiences! That said, with such and incredible support network, and beautiful surroundings, I think I'm going to be just fine (...well, hopefully...).

I learned something today...

2009-08-07T13:15:00.002+01:00

William James once said: ''Wherever you are, it is your own friends who make your world' and whilst I've always wholeheartedly agreed with him, my current circumstances have given his words added poignancy for me.

After only a few days with Kristin, I already feel like I've known her for years and I trust her implicitly; I feel we've developed a bond and from day one her very presence put me at ease. Our bond has, I feel, been strengthened through the events of the past week (which I *will* be writing about - eventually! Honest.) and through walking (and talking) non-stop for four-and-a-half hours through the avenues of Washington!

To remove yourself from everything and everyone you know for x number of months is exciting, but it's also scary. As I prepare to leave for Boston and my final destination of Northbridge, Mass later today, I do so with more excitement than fear. This is in part due to my emerging friendship with Kristin, but it's also largely due to the contact I've had with Kristin's friends.

I've mentioned this briefly already but the fact that several of her friends and colleagues befriended me via email and Facebook before I'd even left the UK helped me enormously: it took some of the uncertainty away and reassured me I would not end up isolated and lonely. And Kristin's friends have risen way beyond their call of duty. I hope they won't mind me naming them, but Amber and Christina's wishes of a safe and happy journey and Christina's offer of a lift from Logan airport meant a lot to me: I can now proceed with the last leg of my journey secure in the knowledge that I'll be met by a friendly face and without the stress of having to find my way to Northbridge. Having had many - albeit typed - conversations with Michelle, I feel I already know her - almost as well as Kristin, in fact - and I can't wait to meet her! She's the main contact who's been offering me specific events to look forward to and I suspect we're going to get along very well indeed :D

And last, but not least, there's my colleague-and-friend-to-be, Matthew. I am mentioning him last because he posted a comment on my Facebook wall last night that really touched me and will stay with me, even in my darkest moments (and there *will* be dark moments, because that's life). Hopefully, he won't mind me quoting (some of) what he wrote:

'We'll make it home for as long as you stay here'.

So there you go: I'm going home.

:D

Cymru Am Byth

2009-08-06T22:08:00.011+01:00

So our last full day of Orientation is culminating tonight with a 'Cultural Fair'. Each country has to perform something representative of their culture. The UK Fulbrighters decided to break into groups that represent all four countries and the Welsh contingent (aka myself and Gil from Canton) plumped for 'A Pocket Guide to Wenglish': we'll role play a 'typical' Wenglish conversation (written by moi) and then peform it again using Standard English (marinally less embarrassing than performing 'I'm a Little Teapot', methinks, as the English are doing. Yes, they *really* are!). For those of you who have never heard of the term 'Wenglish' it's basically the dialect used by English-speaking Welsh people, which incorporates Welsh words and grammar. Here's our script:

A Hiya!
(Hello!)

B ‘right butt, how’re you, ‘en?
(Hello my friend, how are you feeling today?)

A ‘Been better, like – my bad leg’s been giving me gyp again
(I have felt better, in all honesty – my injured leg has been causing me discomfort.)

B Fair dos, you’ve had that bad leg for yonks. You under the doctor?
(Oh my, you have been suffering with an injured leg for a long time now, poor you. Have you consulted a doctor?)

A Aye, but she’s proper didoreth like and a bit twp.
(I did indeed visit my GP but sadly she’s rather useless and more than a little stupid.)

B Is it?
(Really?)

A Aye
(Yes)

B Dew! It’s tamping down out there!
(Goodness me, it is raining heavily outside!)

A No change there then! Look – there’s Dai the Milk; he’s carrying on with Shinko’s girl now.
(It’s always raining in Wales (!) Look – I can see the milkman called David, who has recently started a relationship with Mr Jenkins’ daughter.)

B Where’s he to, ‘en?
(Where is he? I can’t see him.)

A He’s over by there!
(He’s standing there!)

B Oh aye, so he is. So, pub later, is it?
(Oh yes, I can see him now. So, would you like to accompany me to the pub later?)

A Tidy.
(I certainly would like to accompany you to the pub, yes.)

B ‘gis a cwtch then.
(I would like a hug goodbye.)

A + B Ta ra
(Goodbye.)

...I'll be glad when it's over!

I'll post more on Orientation when I have time: I have a role play to learn ;)

Cymru am Byth! ( which roughly translates as 'W(h)ales Forever' - the more observant of you will understand my addition*) :)

** Update**

So I survived the cultural dinner...just! It took all my willpower to get on that stage as lots of people were photographing the participants and those of you who know me will understand just how badly I wanted to run far away, in the opposite direction, at that point (Gil wouldn't let me out of her sight though. Foiled!) Our Wenglish sketch seemed to go down well though and the overall UK presentation (performed as if it was an episode of 'Britain's Got Talent'. Scotland won...we were a close second) was, according to the British Council peeps, the best they'd EVER seen!!!!1! Go us! I also got told by all members of a large American exchange family that they thought the Wenglish act was one of the best of the night; they'd 'voted' for us and thought we were really funny. Oh yes! *smug face* Personally, I enjoyed watching the other cultural presentations more, especially when they involved dancing.

Orientation proved to be an interesting week. I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know Kristin and meeting my fellow Fulbrighters from the US, France, The Czech Republic, Turkey, Ghana, India, Hungary, Mexico, Switzerland (apologies to any country I can't recall at the mo'). However, I would have liked more 'quality' time with both them and Kristin as opposed to sitting in endless lengthy lectures on the education system in the US and how to teach effectively (...) For those exchange partners who were heading to their respective posts on the Friday, there must have been a great deal of uncertainty as we were only given two and a half hours of allocated partner time all week: I feel fortunate to have ten further days with Kristin. Organised events, such as the bus tour of 'DC, would, I feel have been far more productive and effective. Kristin and I learned far more about each other and our exchange in the four-and-a-half hours we were browsing the museums and walking the streets of 'DC whilst chatting than we would have in any number of lectures. Still, I got to see a lot of the city, have dinner in Georgetown and attend *the* club to go to, so it was all good really!

* pro-tip: look *really* closely at the picture: comments welcome!

2009-08-05T18:40:00.000+01:00

Root beer is liquid Germoline. Fact.

The Next Chapter...

2009-08-05T12:47:00.005+01:00

As I write this, from my room at the Renaissance M Street Hotel in Washington DC, my first day of Orientation is drawing to a close. I find it hard to believe I’m actually here! My last month in the UK passed with ridiculous speed – a whirl of organising, sorting, cleaning and saying goodbye. The goodbyes were by the far the hardest part. Even though I know the next few months will probably pass far too quickly and I’m embarking on the experience of a lifetime, leaving my loved ones – especially my boyfriend, Ry – was the hardest thing I have ever had to do. I don’t think I’ve ever been so emotional; certainly not openly so.

Having been ill in the final weeks of school, the last week of term was an organisational blur. I was pleased with my final efforts though and am confident that I’ve left everything in good order for my exchange partner, Kristin. I was reminded of just how fantastic my department are when I was lured, under false pretences, into my Head of Department’s classroom to find they’d organised a ‘half birthday’ party for me as they won’t see me before my actual birthday on December 23rd. I was spoiled with an incredible range of presents – most of which were geared towards my travels – some lovely cards and a huge strawberry and cream meringue cake. I love my colleagues to bits anyway, but the fact that they’d done that for me made it very hard for me to retain my composure; I was genuinely surprised and very touched. My brilliant prefects, Bonnie and Sasha, also surprised me with flowers, chocolates, a card and a ‘Travelling Tunes’ CD which had been made with a great deal of thought and I certainly wasn’t expecting any of it: I don’t think I can adequately express just how much these gifts meant to me. It was great sadness that I closed the door on my classroom for the final time this year.

The past two weeks have been hectic. Obtaining car insurance for Kristin proved to be the most challenging process of the exchange so far but we worked together and many, many phone calls later we finally secured a policy. I made endless lists and methodically worked through them to ensure I had done everything possible to ensure I was ready to live and work in the US and that my house was ready for Kristin and Micaela to live in. In between ticking off items on my list, I spent as much time as possible with my parents, friends and Ry. The actions and reactions of my friends over the past couple of weeks has reminded me just how lucky I am to have them, and also affirmed that I am as important to them as they are to me – and as much as I miss them, that’s an unexpected bonus: I don’t think enough people have the opportunity or inclination to stop and reflect on the value of their relationships with others. This process has forced me to do so. I know that I will never, ever take them for granted.

Despite my growing sadness at the prospect of leaving those dear to me, my excitement began to build with each message I received from Kristin’s friends and colleagues, wishing me a safe journey and offering, in effect, their friendship to me before they’d even met me: I have, for example, been invited for a few days to a holiday home on Cape Cod in the coming weeks. Their generosity and kindness has helped me enormously: they have given me specific events to look forward to and I cannot wait to meet them.

When Monday 3rd of August arrived, I was forced to say the hardest goodbye of all. I never, ever want to experience that feeling again. Having barely slept, by the time I arrived at Heathrow I already felt shattered and emotionally drained. The United queue was huge and despite having a group booking, I had to wait in line even though the rest of the group – most of whom had stayed in a nearby hotel – were way ahead of me. We weren’t allowed to check in online and when we (or rather, I) finally reached check-in, we were told we wouldn’t be allocated seats until boarding, as during school holidays they only allocate seats to parents. Lovely. I must look somewhat dodgy, as I was the only one of my group asked to remove my shoes when passing through security (either that, or they’d heard of my dislike of any form of footwear and were kindly giving me a break from my trainers…somehow I think the former is the most likely explanation: airport staff universally appear devoid of a sense of humour). And thanks to United’s rather substantial queue, we barely had time to traverse the departure lounge before it was time to board our flight.

At boarding, we learned that we’d been upgraded from Economy to Premium Economy (which basically meant we’d still have fully functioning legs at the end of the flight. Hurrah), though two lucky sods were upgraded to Business Class. Alright for some. Having only travelled on planes with three seats either side of a central aisle, the Boeing 777 seemed huge to me – there was a bank of seats in the middle of the plane and two aisles. Typically, and as ascribed by the laws of a certain Mr Murphy, I’d been allocated a seat in the middle section, which was possibly the worst seat I could have been placed in; I like to see where I’m going! Luckily, a fellow Fulbrighter who wanted to sleep most of the way (I have an inability to sleep on anything that moves) swapped with me and I got a window seat, albeit one right on the wing! I made like a stereotypical tourist and photographed the view prior to taking off, the Lost Boy clouds part, an aerial view of Massachusetts, and several aerial views of our descent, including the Hudson river and touching down at Washington Dulles. The view was considerably more interesting than the so-called ‘in flight entertainment’ which consisted of a range of dire films and equally dire ‘music’ (ipods ftw), though I would never otherwise have known that Limp Bizkit’s ‘Nookie’ appears on the soundtrack for 17 Again…mainly as I would, under no other circumstances, have watched that film! Well, it’s trivia that *could* come in handy sometime. Maybe.

I’d been told to prepare myself for the fact that, despite having a common language and exposure to ‘American culture’ in the media, Britain and the US couldn’t be more different. This became evident to me from the moment we stepped off the plane: we were loaded on to…I don’t even have a word to describe what we were loaded on to; ‘contraption’ would be the first term that comes to mind: huge rectangular structures on wheels that appeared to have chimneys in them! We were then herded into long queues for immigration where I was tortured: after scanning in your fingerprints they take a photo. A happy bunny I was not. This wholly unpleasant experience was compounded by the fact that the immigration official seriously lacked interpersonal skills. I wasn’t exactly made to feel welcome! Luckily, my mood was somewhat improved by the fact that all my luggage met me at the airport (I’d read so many bad things about United that I’d packed all my essentials for Orientation in my carry-on bag!) and that the all-American guy at customs treated me like an actual human being and bid me welcome to the US. We finally emerged into the oppressive Washington heat (akin to stepping into an oven): the UK ‘cultural ambassadors’ reinforcing stereotypes by unanimously remarking on how hot it was!

Our transport to the hotel was some hybrid of a truck and a limo. As fascinating as this was, and as much as I wanted to absorb every part of the journey, to take in everything and store it for prosperity, by this point I was exhausted. Although only about 4pm, by my body clock it was 9pm and I’d been travelling since 6.30am, having barely slept. I’d been traumatised by separation and photographs and I badly wanted to reach my hotel room for some personal space. I think I’d reached the lowest point I have encountered as yet by this point: by the time I’d finally reached my (rather lovely) room all I wanted to do was cry. And then cry some more. I felt very, very alone and a little bit sorry for myself. I indulged in a brief spell of emo-ness and then forced myself to go and register.

The AED team, who run the Orientation programme, told me Kristin had been waiting for me (and that they love the word ‘brilliant’). I was also given some money and a Fulbright badge, Score! They helped me to look for her, to no avail. And then I heard my name. Or rather I heard ‘Samantha’, which I only really ever hear when my mother is angry with me! Despite this, I liked Kristin immensely from first sight. We hugged and chatted easily; I felt like she was an old friend and not someone I was meeting for the first time. Her friendly eyes and dazzling smile indicate she is a genuine, kind individual and I have no doubt whatsoever that she is going to fit right in at Fairfield; definitely within my department.

Day one of Orientation started, for me at least, in the computer room AED have provided for us (at the moment, the need to communicate with those back home as frequently as possible is strong within me). After a rather lovely breakfast and the most delicious illy moca (so delicious I imagine it must require some sort of health warning), we were given a lengthy talk by a collage professor on cultural differences. Lengthy would be the key word in that sentence! He did provide some interesting anecdotes and thinking points (such as comparing culture to an iceberg: it’s a person’s values, which may not be visible, which are the greatest part of their identity). This was followed by lunch and then a guided tour of Washington. The architecture here is fascinating; there are old houses preserved in their entirety yet (quite literally) surrounded by modern structures: they have become part of the new buildings. The oblisk at the Lincoln Memorial was especially striking and standing on the same steps where Martin Luther King gave his ‘I have a dream’ speech was quite a powerful experience. My only experience of the US to date is through films and tv programmes…and it all really is just like being in one! The tour was followed by a formal dinner with talks from a Senator of State and a descendent of Senator Fulbright and then a group of us spend a rather pleasant hour or so sitting outside a cocktail bar round the block from the hotel.

So what have I learned so far? Everything in America is on a large scale. The people too, are as I expected: the hotel staff are uber polite and accommodating (although the bus driver who took my bag qualified this gesture by explaining that he didn’t want me to fall and sue him!) and there is certainly a higher level of customer service. Conversely, I haven’t yet had a single “Have a nice day!” I’ve learned I really like the custom of instantly refilling your drink (free of charge) the moment it’s empty (or nearly empty) too. It’s magical! Whilst chatting at the bar with Kristin on our first night, I put down my glass and glanced back a few seconds later to find a brand new one in its place – at first I doubted my own sanity, wondering if I’d imagined drinking it (which was entirely possible in my discombobulated state). I definitely think the UK should follow suit! More importantly, I’ve learned that I couldn’t have been given a better exchange partner and I think I really *can* do this…only time will tell, I guess!

The final countdown...

2009-07-03T10:21:00.005+01:00

It's now exactly a month until I leave for my American adventure and I'm a veritable maelstrom of emotions. Last Autumn I applied for a place on the Fulbright Teacher Exchange Programme - run by the British Council in the UK - which enables British teachers to swap jobs, and lives, with an American counterpart. The programme is extremely prestigious in the US, so I consider myself lucky to have made it to the final fifteen. I'm excited about the opportunity to experience America, a country I've never visited, as a 'native' as opposed to a tourist, to really immerse myself in the culture and develop not only my teaching skills, but as a person too. That said, the sheer enormity of the preparation involved in organising everything is somewhat overwhelming!

Surprisingly, I'm not remotely worried about living and working in a different country, aside from a slight concern that I won't be able to teach my exchange partner's classes - an alien curriculum - efficiently or be able to adjust to driving on the 'wrong' side of the road! I thrive on challenging myself and find it easy to establish a rapport with virtual strangers, so am not daunted by the prospect of having to make a new social circle; I'm sure I'll come home at Christmas having made some fantastic new friends. It's those I'm leaving behind who are the cloud on my horizon. I'm lucky enough to have the most amazing boyfriend, family and friends and the thought of being without them for the best part of five months isn't exactly filling me with joy. We'll keep in touch using the interwebs but it's not the same. I'll also miss Fairfield, my colleagues...and even my students (well, some of them! ;))

I'm going to be teaching at Northbridge High School, a modern suburban school of 750 students - small, but still double the size of Fairfield! I'll be teaching Literature to grades 10 to 12, which is roughly the equivalent of years 11 to 13 in the UK. As I've missed teaching sixth form since coming to Fairfield I'm looking forward to working with older students again. I imagine I'll find it strange not having any Key Stage 3, though; I know my exchange partner is certainly amazed by the range of ages and aspects of the subject we teach here. Northbridge is a quiet mill town, about 40 miles from Boston and three hours' drive from New York, in central Massachusetts, surrounded by lakes and home to a large population of swans. We didn't have a choice in the location of our exchange - Fulbright and the British Council match applicants based on complex selection criteria - but I couldn't think of anywhere I'd rather be in the fall than New England. All that beautiful foliage and hopefully some snow in December: perfect! I'm looking forward to experiencing an American Halloween and Thanksgiving, too.

Henry Thoreau once said, "Wealth is the ability to fully experience life.” He was right. We only live once and I fully intend to grasp each and every experience within my reach. So, even though I will miss my loved ones, this exchange is a once-in-a-lifetime experience and I'm feeling pretty rich right now.

I shall be posting updates of my experiences here. Watch this space!

Fulbright Exchange to America

Epilogue

An Epic Adventure

Goodbye Dinner

Student Appreciation!

5,4,3,2,1...

NY, NY

Christmas in New York

Winter Wonderland

Super Bowl Saturday

Pastures New

Rachel's Challenge

A Night To Remember

Meeting the Parents

Turkey Day

Stop All The Clocks...

Cross Blog-ination

Memes really do come true(!)

11/11

It's a dirty job but someone's gotta do it...

Halloween

Homecoming

My first...

My first...

Good Times...

Cotton Eyed Who?

Crumpets and Garlic Chicken. Tasty!

Back In Black

The Hungry Caterpillar

You Can't Stop Progress (or so say Clutch)

Fact #3

Fact #2

Pumpkin, pumpkin everywhere, but ne'er a...

Fall

Pressure

Here's one I made earlier...

Little Pleasures

Black Sunshine

School Daze

Win!

Seri0sly* Tamping

Life Is Peachy

Marmite: you either love it or hate it....

G33k H34v3n

WaterFire #2

WaterFire #1

Press play on the eye before you start reading...please:

Professional Development. Ish.

Ish

Vermont

You know what they say...

Wheels

A day trip to Wales!

Red Sox, Fenway Park, Boston

Me? Watching Sport?! Surely not…

Cape Cod

Top of the World**

Stereotype(s) **

'When you are a skunk, you learn 'ow to 'old your breath for a long time.'

Hiraeth

Pondering...

Boston

** UPDATE**

Falling to Pieces

Home Sweet Home...

I learned something today...

Cymru Am Byth

The Next Chapter...

The final countdown...

UPDATE