- Saying, “Is it?” instead of “really?” even when it’s not grammatically appropriate. For example:
“We were supposed to start at 1:30, we’re late.”
“Is it?”
- Saying, “ne” (pronounced nay) to confirm information. For example, a learner’s name. “John, ne?”
- Asking questions in the negative. “Don’t you have a stapler I can use?” “Do you not have a teacher?”
- Using “have” in the present continuous all the time. “We are having a class.”
- Adopting made-up words like “footing” (walking) and “schooling” (Where are you schooling?).
At least we still notice when we say these things. Maybe after two years we’ll be doing it without thinking. Doesn’t bode well for our grad school applications…
A quarter of the way through our service, we are also almost finished with our first teaching term! This is Dylan’s last week of teaching as his school is starting exams next week. I have one more week to teach and then my school will also be having exams. I managed to fit in all those eight CASS marks I was freaking out about somehow, but there’s no doubt it’s been a pretty stressful term. We’re counting down to the April holiday and a visit from my parents!
One thing I will say in favor of this whole Peace Corps/teaching venture – I have never spent a single day being bored, something that can’t be said for any of my previous jobs! I never dread coming to work (aside from waking up so early) because there’s always something to keep me busy. I get to be creative every day in making lesson plans or talking to learners. I’m constantly challenged to do something new or more or better. It’s pretty awesome.