哭笑不得

（上課前剛畫好腮紅，走進教室以後...）

學生（用生澀的中文說）：老師，妳的臉今天好像一顆大．蘋．果！（滿臉笑容）
我：．．．．．．．．．你可以說像蘋果就好，前面不用加個「大」字......

－－－

他應該是想稱讚我的意思（吧？）

語出驚人 - 好想當文青

[1]
生：「老師，contact lenses 怎麼說？」
我：「Contact lenses...」
生：「是『微眼鏡』嗎？」
我：「不是···」

[2]
我：「這個點心是台灣製造的，叫做『小饅頭』。」
生：「喔，很好吃！小饅頭···那也可以說『微饅頭』嗎？」
我：「不行···」


到底是有多想當文青．．．

語出驚人 - 失之毫釐，差之千里

<一> 動物的名字


生︰「其實動物也有左右撇子之分。

我︰「真的嗎？」

生︰「對啊，像狗就是，你跟牠握手的話，牠會用習慣的那隻腳跟你握手。還有···老師，monkey怎麼說？」

我︰「Monkey是猴子。」

生︰「對，像狗、猴子、馬子都有左右撇子的分別。」

我︰「嗯···是馬，不是馬子。」





<二> 度量衡（兒童不宜）


（老闆來課堂上旁聽，坐在角落）

生︰「老師，在中國講到距離說公里，但美國說英里。」

我︰「嗯，對。」

生︰「在中國談到重量，習慣用公斤，那在美國重量怎麼說？」

我︰「嗯⋯」

生︰「英斤？」

我︰「（內心震驚）不，中文不這麼說，是磅，中文用英鎊！」（故作鎮定，偷瞄一旁老闆，也是一臉鎮定···）

語出驚人 - 聖誕節

學生B：我小的時候，我們家的聖誕節傳統之一是我媽媽會把絲襪掛在壁爐上。
我：......你是說襪子吧。
學生B：對，對，應該是襪子，哈哈哈哈哈～～～
學生A：你媽媽通常把甚麼東西放在絲襪裡？（尚未會意過來）
學生B：腿。

我：我們去年決定每年要買一個代表當年的聖誕樹吊飾(Ornament)。去年我們買了華盛頓櫻花季的吊飾，因為我們是那時候結婚的。
學生：喔，這是一個很好的家庭傳統。
我：我們也這麼覺得，今年我們聖誕節會在台灣過，不知道到時候要買甚麼吊飾。
學生：嗯...你應該可以買一個臭豆腐的吊飾。

學生A：你今年打算送你太太甚麼聖誕禮物？
學生B：我們說好今年不送對方禮物。
學生A：為甚麼？
學生B：我知道她很愛我，她知道我很愛她，這樣就夠了。
我（心想）：（哇～真有道理，這樣的傳統也不錯。）
學生A：這樣不行！你一定得送她一點禮物，這樣她會更高興～是一個驚喜！
我：你應該相信他，畢竟他很有經驗。（皆已婚，年齡相差二十歲）
學生B：真的嗎？嗯...讓我再考慮一下。
學生A：你可以送她兩個耳朵。
我：......你是說耳環吧。

語出驚人 - 感恩節

《美國人談感恩節》

學生A：

我們家過感恩節的傳統是每年到不同的親戚家，一起聊天、看電視、打派等等。

學生B：

我們其實不知道清教徒第一年是不是真的有吃火雞，不過應該是有吃一些野尿。

Busier and busier

最近好幾個人問我：「你是不是最近很忙？」
開始上班以後，確實感覺時間被壓縮不少
但說實在的，也沒忙到喘不過氣那麼嚴重
所以請大家不必擔心，我會儘量多po一些照片/文章報告近況的...（亂開支票）

工作至今轉眼已經兩個半月，一切都相當順利
已經習慣7點起床，8點出門，5點半下班回家的規律生活
感覺每週時間都過得飛快
交了不少新朋友（同事、學生），也頗受到主管信任
學生中有幾位是教會的弟兄姐妹，每次遇見總有種他鄉遇故知的親切感
目前為止覺得挺喜歡這份工作
教成人最大的好處，就是可以和學生聊大人的話題（時事、政經社會問題等等）
學生年紀幾乎全都比我大，甚至也有父母輩的
上星期上課時不小心透露父母的年紀，讓某同學當場晴天霹靂：
「什麼？我...我都可以當你爸爸了？！」
當下只覺得自己實在太白目，何必戳人痛點？
後來接連後悔懊惱了好幾天...

學生請我吃巧克力（兩顆）－是他太太公司賣的（太太是大廚）

放了一個月的短短假期
下星期GLN又要開課了！
暑期班一週上課兩次，各兩小時（一/三 6:30-8:30pm），相當緊湊
原本擔心會太累，猶豫著該不該接
但想到當初「簽約」時答應過要幫他們教一年，所以就接下了
結果後來和其他同期的老師聊
才發現其他人都沒接暑期班，而是直接跳過，到秋季才要教（秋季班每周一次）
當下有種被擺了一道的感覺......
只能說我太老實守信用
而現在也只能硬著頭皮撐過去了～

往好處想，
雖然這六周會累一點，但也不失為另一個鍛練自己的好機會
而且會有許多之前班上的老班底和助教一起，必定又會是段難忘的回憶
塞翁失馬，焉知非福！

期末謝師宴　GLN經驗分享比賽第一名的獎品
大部分老師都分享上課中遇到好笑的事情　
我則感謝參加GLN幫助我得以找到現在的好頭路 （狗腿必勝）

謝師宴參加獎：GLN T-shirt (背後是LOGO)

成人中文班初體驗

昨天晚上GLN春季班開學
教的是中文初級班
大家幾乎都是第一次學
而我也是第一次教中文班/成人班
事前經過三次師訓 還有和TA開會討論
準備課程計畫 教材 投影片 和學生們email聯絡
我和我的TA都非常興奮 也非常緊張!

感想：
我只能說
實在太開心了!!!!!
I love working with people who can actually communicate and actually want to learn!!!!!!!
和兒童/幼兒教學比起來
這簡直就是天堂啊...
(學生都是職業人士 背景有顧問,工程師,公務員,律師,警察...)

不必再想盡辦法威脅利誘他們寫功課
不必再苦苦哀求他們開金口或閉嘴
不必再絞盡腦汁設計新遊戲 唱唱跳跳裝瘋賣傻吸引他們的目光 (最慘的是還不被領情)

第一次覺得如此有成就感......

附上我可愛學生們的Feedback
Awww how nice and cute they are... <3

I love my job!!!


----

Thanks for everything 老师!!!

I liked that we were able to practice a lot with the tones, I feel like that should be a review section in every single class.  Mainly because it is so odd for most of us to speak that way, it really is a new way of speaking.

I like the game and the competitiveness aspect, but one problem I see with it is that we all want to win, so our tones and pronunciation goes out the window in favor of speed.  Maybe, a slower game, where as long as the person speaks it accurately they get the point?

I like that you were able to take the time to see us each individual try the pronunciation of the different tones, I think that was very helpful, and maybe something that should be done again in future classes.

I also like the cultural section, I think it is important that we aren't just learning a language, but a different culture.  Perhaps in addition to our prepared presentation, the 老师 can provide another cultural topic, or facts in addition to the students.

Everything else was fantastic!  Quite honestly, having taken two other GLN Mandarin courses, this one has been by far the best.  I feel much more confidant in my abilities after one session of this class than all the other classes combined, thank you very much!  I feel like you both are able to focus on the individual student and really get the basics across, which has been difficult for teachers in past classes, where they didn't want to tell students that they were doing something wrong.  You're both doing an absolutely amazing job!

Thanks again,

T.

註: T昨天第一個到教室(提早來停車),和他聊了一下,他說之前已經上過兩次初級中文,但是都沒有打好基礎,最令人沮喪的是他試著和中國朋友講中文,結果對方都聽不懂(大部分是發音和聲調的問題),這學期是他最後一次的嘗試

--

T,

Thanks for your compliments and suggestions! I'm very glad that we decided to teach the tones even in our first class. We're definitely going to review them again and again. We'll invent more different types of games in the future - thanks for your good advice! For the cultural moment, we will also give some input in addition to the student's presentation.Thanks again for being an amazing student! I really appreciate your feedback and your experience as a Chinese learner. So excited about our new semester! :)

Best,
Amber

----

Dear Hsiao-Ting Chen,

I really enjoyed the class yesterday. To respond to your questions:
1) the thing that i enjoyed the most is that you made it really fun and are honest when we are really off the tones, but in a very nice way.
I think that the cultural moment was very interesting and mostly new to me.

2) the most difficult part will always be remembering what i learned the previous class, since it is hard to relate the chinese sounds to something familiar to us in english. But i think you made a good effort in trying to associate chinese words to english concepts.

3) i think that both of you are bubbly and energetic, and it's a breath of fresh air after a work day in the office. The only issue with the room might be that it is a little small for such a big class. Perhaps laying out the desks in a different way may work (such as in rows).

Thank you very much for everything!!
Sincerely,
K.

--

Dear K,

Thanks for your kind compliments and suggestions! I'm glad that you enjoyed it. 
I was also surprised that everyone on the list showed up! Although from what I've heard, the class usually gets smaller and smaller each week due to people's busy schedule. So hopefully it won't always be so crowded. (I'll talk to NYU and see if they can get us a bigger classroom if everyone keeps coming.) The reason why we asked everyone to sit in a "U" pattern was that it makes it easier for me and Wenyan to reach out to everyone when needed. Also I like it when the whole class are able to see everyone's face in the classroom, which makes the atmosphere more casual and fun. However, we'll definitely reconsider about it and try to make more room for everyone. 

Thanks again for your feedback and for being a great student! Have a great weekend and Xin1 nian2 kuai4 le4!

Best,
Amber

----

Thanks Hsiao-ting.  I thought the class was great!  (and difficult, as I expected)  I'm hoping to improve enough to move to the next level in the coming semester.  You have your work cut out for you!

My feedback:

1.   I loved the personality, expertise and enthusiasm of the teachers.  The most interesting thing were the tones.

2.   The tones were also the most difficult.  Hopefully patient practice, practice, practice will help us conquer this challenge  together.

3.   The class moves very fast and I'm not sure everyone has "got it" before we move on; however they told us in the preliminary emails that this would happen, so this may not be something that you "can improve on".  If I think of anything else I will let you know.


恭禧發財

S.

--

S,

Thanks for your nice compliments and suggestions! I'm glad that you liked our lesson and I really appreciate your determination to learn the language well. 

I understand the tones are really abstract for most Chinese learners, especially for beginners. (In fact, when I first went to elementary school, I thought they all sounded the same to me.) So just like what you said, patience and consistent practice are definitely needed. We will make sure we have enough practice each week in the future. And don't worry, it will come eventually. I have friends who started learning Chinese when they were adults, and now they speak like natives! It is just a matter of time and effort.

Since it was my first time teaching a class like this, I was trying to get a sense of how fast / slowly we should go. Repetitive demonstration is a critical part in language instruction, but sometimes we as native speakers tend to forget this. Thanks for reminding me - we'll try to slow down a little bit next time. If you feel you haven't got it and want to spend more time on something before we move on, please feel free to let me know. For me, it's better for everyone to fully chew the materials instead of swallowing everything down and getting choked.

Thanks again for your feedback and for being a great student! Have a great weekend and 新年快樂!

Best,
Amber

New job(s?)

前陣子因為朋友的介紹而有了兩個新的工作機會

1. More Good Foundation (http://www.moregoodfoundation.org/) - 翻譯(英翻中)

More Good Foundation (MGF)為非營利組織，宗旨在運用網際網路提供更多讓教會成員分享福音的空間，同時也將信息翻譯成多國語言，使更多人能有機會認識耶穌基督後期聖徒教會。（MGF為教會成員所組成，但並非教會官方組織）

最近，由於美國總統大選候選人Mitt Romney的宗教背景引來媒體大量報導，越來越多人對於"Mormon"感到好奇，然而上網搜尋的結果卻找到許多詆毀教會的不實傳言，令許多社會大眾產生誤解，甚至絆倒了部分原本信心堅強的聖徒；而MGF的目標，便是要在網路上增加更多正確的資訊，使更多人能認識"Mormon"的真正本質，學習復興的福音。

在尚未享有完全宗教自由的中國，網路成為傳播福音的最佳管道，許多人也透過網路接觸到教會進而歸信，前往香港受洗。然而有關教會的中文資料目前仍然相當有限，因此亟需中文翻譯及寫作人才的加入。

這對我而言實在是最理想的工作－工時彈性、不限地點（總部在猶他州，但人力遍布全球）、可以增進英文能力（順便維持中文寫作能力...），又可以為神服務，傳播福音，只能說一舉數得！！



2. Global Language Network (http://thegln.org/) - 中文教師

Global Language Network (GLN) 是一個以語言文化交流為宗旨的非營利組織，位於George Washington University校區範圍，也就是我們家附近...GLN提供60多種語言課程，強調低收費、以加強口語溝通能力為主，教師皆為無給薪義工，學生只需繳交手續費和押金（學期末可領回）。他們最近推出Teaching Fellowship計畫，應徵的教師不需要有教學經驗，但必須繳交履歷、線上報名、通過面試、試教示範，並經過他們所提供的教師訓練，以確保教學品質。

上周末我花了好幾個小時填寫他們的線上報名表，打字打到眼睛快脫窗，因為除了填寫基本資料之外，還必須回答整整十二個申論題！！！一頁寫完下一頁還有，寫完再下一頁還有，根本就是在考驗英文作文能力！感覺好像回到大學時代的考試，只不過這次是用英文，而且是為了找工作，所以不能亂掰！！但最痛苦的是大部分的題目都在鬼打牆，感覺他們只是要提供求職者大肆唬爛的機會...履歷表已經夠唬爛了還不夠嗎......

總之，寫到後來真的有種想加上「讓我們反攻大陸，解救水深火熱中的大陸同胞」的感覺。有興趣／耐心的人可以參考最後附上的essays...如果發現只有十一題，那是因為最後一題是「請問您有任何意見要提供給我們嗎」，但我已經沒有任何思考的力氣了...只填了"Thank you for your consideration. I look forward to working with you."，但其實真正想說的是"你們出的題目也太多了吧，請改進！"

我想，他們只是想確定來應徵的人都是真正有精誠所至金石為開的誠意又有鐵杵磨成繡花針的毅力又閒閒沒事做可以多上幾堂課的老師吧...真是用心良苦〜


不過辛苦總是有代價的，過了兩三天後就接到面試通知，要我星期六下午到辦公室去面試。面試時間約25分鐘，最後5分鐘示範教學，應徵者要表現出教師的「活力和熱忱」。

我準備的課程是「喜歡」，好久沒作教具，自以為很有創意...還蠻有成就感。

面試過程感覺還算順利，之後在附近的中國餐廳吃了飯，Fortune Cookie的籤詩內容令人無法理解...是要叫我放棄當老師的念頭，改行當醫生嗎？


總而言之，就且讓我們一起靜待佳音～



[ 特別感謝 ]
最親愛的老公提供專業修改作文/履歷服務、模擬面試練習（史上最可怕的面試官）、忍受我的緊張、神經質（求職症候群）...沒有你的話我應該已經撐不下去緊急送醫了吧。 <3

1.       Whatinspired you to apply for the GLN Teaching Fellowship? *

I was very excited when I first learnedabout GLN because I've been looking for opportunities to contribute my languageand teaching skills and to gain more experience in this field. I've always hada passion for teaching and have been an ESL teacher in Taiwan for more than 8years, so I believe that I would be a great fit for this position.

2.       Howdoes this Teaching Fellowship align with your personal and professional goals?What do you expect to gain from serving as a GLN Teaching Fellow? *

I've always been interested in education,especially in language education. However, although I've had a lot of TESLexperience, I haven't had the chance to teach Chinese (even though it was myfavorite subject at school). As a GLN Teaching Fellow, I hope I can gain moretraining and teaching experience in this field and help more others learn aboutChinese language and culture.

3.       Why isit important to you to share your language and culture with others? *

My family has been running an ESL schoolsince I was in middle school. Growing up with such background, I've learnedthat language study is indeed one of the most fundamental and applicablesubjects. I know it can change lives because my life has been changed bylearning and knowing English. When people share the same language, the barriermagically collapses. Then when there's more understanding, more friendships arebuilt, and more opportunities are created. I love Chinese language and culture,and I'd like to share with those who are interested in either or both of them.

4.       What,in your opinion, is the role of foreign language learning in the 21st century? *

With the rapid development of technologyand transportation, people can travel to almost anywhere and meet people fromall over the world. Language skills have become even greater assets. Therefore,foreign language learning is no doubt substantial. It is definitely the bestkey to expand future opportunities in the global society.

5.       What doyou think GLN’s role is in the DC community? Why is GLN important to you andhow would you contribute to our mission? *

Being the center of international politics,the DC community is the best place to gain cross-cultural experiences. GLN is awonderful organization with great value because it brings people together fromdifferent cultures and helps them break down language barrier. Being both anexperienced foreign language teacher and a student, I understand the challengeof learning a new language, and I'd love to use my experiences to help peoplefind joy in learning Chinese language and the culture.

6.       What doyou find appealing about GLN’s methodology and learning approach? *

The "communicative approach" - Itotally agree that language learning should start with speaking and listeningsince they are the foundation of communication. It is critical to helpingstudents to build confidence when they try to speak a new language becausethat's how they'll really use the language and enjoy it.

7.       Howwould you define leadership? How is leadership relevant in the GLN context? *

Leadership is the ability to inspire, todirect and to guide a group of people. A good leader has a vision and caresabout of people he/she leads. A good leader hears the need of every individualin the group and helps them make the most of their potential. One of the bestways to develop leading skills is to teach, since a good teacher also has to bea great leader who strives to help the students achieve their goals in learningin spite of their different backgrounds. Through the training and teachingexperience with GLN, more people can become not only good teachers, but alsostrong leaders.

8.       Whatwas the best language learning experience you've ever had and what made it sospecial? How might that relate to your work with GLN? *

My best language learning experiencehappened two years ago when I was doing a voluntary service in Taiwan for 18months with most the people I worked with being English native speakers. Eventhough I had been studying the language since I was little, it was the firsttime I actually got to “use” the language on a daily basis. As a result, bothmy English communication skills and my confidence improved tremendously, and Ialso grew a deeper understanding of American culture. I learned from theexperience that the best way to really learn a language is to use it as much aspossible with the natives. As a GLN Teaching Fellow, I’ll give my studentspersonal attention and opportunities that I enjoyed to help them learn thelanguage for everyday conversation.

9.      What kind of teaching background do you have,if any? *

I have 8+ years of experience teachingforeign language to students at all levels in both classroom and tutoringcontexts. My work has included designing curriculum, administering programs,and teaching. Please see my resume for additional details.

10.  Describe the ideal GLN Teaching Fellow in termsof attitude, qualities, etc. How would you compare yourself to this ideal? *

An ideal GLN Teaching Fellow should bemotivated, passionate, proactive, creative and willing to learn and to share.Leadership and communication skills are also crucial. Throughout my teachingcareer, I have demonstrated that I have all these qualities. I believe that Iwould be a great fit for this job because I do have a great deal of teachingand leadership experience. I have a passion for language education and I loveinteracting and learning from with people from different cultures.

11.   Imaginemeeting someone on an elevator. You find out they’ve never heard of yourlanguage or culture. What do you share with them about its uniqueness beforeyou get to the 12th floor? *

Chineseculture is an ancient culture with astonishingly rich components which goesback thousands of years. It is one of the most influential cultures in humanhistory. Mandarin Chinese is the mostwidely-spoken language in the world. About one billion people, or one-fifth of the world'spopulation, speak it as their nativelanguage. Learn to speak the language and you will be able to communicate with millions of people around the world.