Taking Children Out to Have Fun! --Nina

In China, there isn't a common word for "field trip," so whenever discussing our plans to take our kids on field trips with the principal, bus drivers, etc, I had to say, "the thing where we take children out to have fun." I organized two field trips this year, one to the Shaanxi Nature Museum for the 4th graders, and the other to the Big Wild Goose Pagoda and the Terracotta Warriors for the 6th graders. Both of those field trips have been organized before by past fellows, so that made the planning process much easier. It was great getting to hang out with my students in a more relaxed, fun environment. I put some of the most mischievous kids in my chaperone groups on purpose, since they are often the most funny and lovable outside of class (during which they can sometimes wreck havoc). I think the kids had a great time and (hopefully!) learned many things that sitting inside a classroom all day couldn't teach them. Unfortunately, car sickness is a huge problem for our kids (since they aren't used to that kind of transportation), but beyond that, there were no problems!

My Students' Masterpieces --Nina

Abby and I both love teaching art class. Once we've picked a fun project to do (thank goodness for the thousands of art teacher bloggers who provide us with inspiration), it is the easiest class to plan and execute. The kids are generally well-behaved in art class, and it's great seeing the creative sides of our kids. I wanted to share some pictures of some of the great things our kids have created this year!