Day 7: Danielle Fortin

Day 7 With Danielle
Thursday May 30, 2013.

Today started off as one of the roughest days (teaching wise). Our first (science) lesson was central around atoms, neutrons, protons, and the different states of matter. The first two groups we taught went great! The kids were responsive and participated as much as they could, though they didn't seem to know much about our lesson plan. It was so rewarding to see the students learn something new. In the past it seemed that the students knew more about the topics we introduced then we did. This time, it was the other way around.

While most of the students didn't know all about chemical reactions and how particles react in the different states of matter, they (again) surprised us with how much they already knew. The students never cease to impress us with their understanding of scientific definitions. Their ability to recite definitions of atoms, protons, neutrons, and electrons was striking at such a young age.

After crazily acting out how the molecules and particles of the different states of matter react with one another we introduced to the students to static electricity. They were highly amused by the balloons we brought to class. I think us teachers, however, were more amused watching the students try and create static on their bald/shaved head. Most of the balloons were popped on the short hair of the students. It was fun to watch how excited they were over the static electricity they created. With the balloons they were able to “magically” pick up pieces of paper.

After the balloon activity, we moved onto bubbles! As an amateur photographer I quickly took the opportunity to capture as any pictures of the students as possible. I got some really good shots that I can’t wait to share.

Our third group however, was the most disappointing. Throughout our entire lesson the students seemed to just stare back at us with blank expressions. It was so difficult in getting the students to respond and participate in our discussion. This made one of the most educational-lasting impressions on me. I secretly vowed to myself to not be that student that just sits and stares at the teacher- when I return to Lasell.

The second session of the day went way better than the first. We split into smaller groups, and discussed the human body. Using the diagrams and miniature versions of the body donated to Arlington, we had a very good afternoon! The students (again) surprisingly knew a lot about the human body, the brain, and the heart. We also were again, able to teach them new concepts and facts that they were sure to remember forever.

Just like every other day, on my journey home to the guest house, I was able to see the exact reason why I love not only this country but this village. I made friends with students walking down the streets of Bumwalakani. We asked each other questions, and they taught me many words in their language. I love how friendly the people are here. They are so willingly to say hi and wave back to every one of our greetings of, “Molembe.” I’m going to miss the friendliness and willingness to communicate with all of us Americans.

I can’t believe today was our last full day of teaching at the Bulobi school. It seems like we just started to get to know all of the students. I wish we had 10 more days with them, to teach them, inspire them, and hear their stories. Every day I spend here I fall more and more in love with the people, the surroundings, the language, the food, and the overall experience.

Do we have to leave???