This past week at school I delivered a lesson to a class about American imperialism and I was able to work with students who were struggling with some of their math work. I proctored a test and I was in charge Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. It was a good week and I was able to work with the students one on one and help them study for upcoming tests in their other classes. Friday was teacher appreciation day where the school gave teachers a treat by giving them 50 reais toward a local grocery store, coffee and tea, treats, and a bag with some coconut water. It was a real nice thing they did and I was glad they let the student teachers be apart of it. It felt nice to be appreciated!! This weekend we went out Friday and Saturday night and last night we went to a samba with a group of people for our last weekend in Rio, our host mom’s birthday celebration and for her son coming home from college. It was a good night for celebrations. The samba is a cultural dance and type of music that Brazilians love. There is a big long table with about 15 men playing instruments and singing Portuguese songs. It was a fun night. Today we plan on going to Copacabana beach and getting dinner and doing last minute souvenir shopping with Rosana, her roommate and her son. We go home in 3 days and I know I am going to miss Rio and our experiences we were fortunate to have.

This past week I gave a lesson that I planned for only one class. The other class there was no power in the school so I was unable to do the lesson. However I started the lesson with that class today and will finish on Thursday. I am going to ask the students on Thursday for their feedback because I believe student feedback is very valid as a beginner teacher. Any criticism is good. I believe each lesson went well, the students were engaged and involved in the discussion and as planned discussion with each other as they walked around the room observing political cartoons about imperialism in America during the 1800s. It is very interesting their attitudes towards American history and American lifestyles. It makes for a good conversation. This past weekend we went out with some of the teachers from school we got food in Copacabana and drinks at a bar called Mudbugs. It was a good time the bar played American music which made it familiar and fun. Saturday we went to Escadaria Selaròn. These are famous steps in Lapa a part of downtown Rio. We got a little lost and found somewhere to eat burgers. All in all it was a good day to venture out. It’s been getting pretty cool out because it’s becoming fall down here so it’s a nice break from the 90 degree weather and humidity. Sunday we explored a soccer stadium and went to a fair with Rosana and her roommate. Very beautiful site. The countdown is on to come home and I couldn’t be more excited.

Maureen posts:  

McKenzie and I only have 5 more days at school.The last 7 weeks have flown by and if anyone has the opportunity to do international student teaching I highly recommend it. Yesterday McKenzie and I went to these famous stairs in Lapa called: Escadaria Selarón. These steps are beautiful and I have attached a few pictures. Today, we went with our host mom (Rosana) and our roommate Priscilla to a fair at the famous soccer club called: Fluminense Football Club. The stadium was beautiful and I also attached a picture from the fair. Can’t wait to do our last minute adventures before we leave in 10 days.