June 25, 2007

Ahh, back to teaching today. Sometimes I get so caught up in seeing the sights and living the relaxing Italian lifestyle, that I forget the reason why I am here....to fill young minds with the English language. As this is the beginning of a new week, we got a few new students, while many from last week remained for a second week of schooling. Now, not to worry...my dear little Pier Luigi is one of those who has chosen to remain for week 2. Indeed, he has had such a delightful time at camp that he has convinced his young cousin, Pier Guiseppe to join him. I must admit that I trembled in my flip-flops to see those two holding hands and running around the school this morning. However, to my surprise, Pier Guiseppe is very competent and is a delightful addition to my class! Just as Pier Guiseppe is a focussed and engaged learner, Pier Luigi is a haphazard and impetuous little soul...I hesitate to use the word "learner" in regards to Pier Luigi, as he does not take a noted interest in his studies. However, the child cannot be faulted for his enthusiastic inclusion of his classmates in all of his extracurricular activities.

We have been told that we are to prepare a song or brief sketch for a final show that will be held on Friday night for all of the parents....and villagers. As mentioned previously, Roccafranca is a small village, and the English camp is a dearly held tradition, with the final show being the culmination of two weeks worth of work and an entire towns pride. Anyways, it was made clear that this show should be somewhat impressive and really showcase our students skills. Well, in the spirit of bang-up theater, I have come to the conclusion that my students will be singing...and acting out...5 Little Green Frogs (changed to 9 Little Green Frogs...as I have nine students). I say "come to the conclusion", because I did try to teach the little fellows some more elaborate numbers...i.e. Going on a Lion Hunt and 5 Little Monkeys. However, these pieces proved too difficult, and so I have settled on 5 Green Frogs. Nonetheless, It appears that I may indeed have my work cut out for me. My little green frogs are enthusiastic about their parts and not only want to hop from the brown log to eat delicious bugs, but also enjoy a quick cartwheel and handstand in the pond...as they wait for their counterparts to join them in the "water". Pier Luigi was particularly energetic in his leap from the brown log, to the pond, and managed to land SPLAT, right on top of the sixth little green frog. Of course, tears ensued and we were forced to take 5 to recover from this ambitious exercise. Your thoughts and prayers are appreciated...