The purpose in coming to Costa Rica is to student teach. I find myself talking more about my adventures and experiences outside of the classroom. Back in the States I was constantly focused on teaching; afterschool hours and on the weekends. My time outside of school here is spent embracing the culture. When I first began working with my cooperating teachers here I was frustrated that they did not have lessons plans. This way of planning coincides with the way of life here in Costa Rica. The people here do not stress and worry. The lifestyle is easy going as well as the teaching style.
Teaching my students has taught me patience. Knowing that English is not the native language here I have to empathize with my students. I may have to repeat Englsih concepts more that once in different ways. It is worth my time to do this to ensure that the students grasp the concepts. I am challeged to be flexible. If a lesson does not take long for the students to understand I must be prepared with another activity or lesson on the spot.
The students enjoy teaching me words in Spanish. It makes them feel like they are teaching me. I really surprise them when I use Spanish with them. I can´t wait for the day when I can say that I am bilingual!
