This week I was teaching grades 4 and 5.

Licia’s grade 5 learnt all about phonics (the same as last week’s grade 3), and they did so well! Their English isn’t as developed as others but they more than make up for that in their enthusiasm and passion about learning.

The rest of grade 5 carried on learning about how Mocky, a character in one of their school books, was having a bad day. I developed the ‘touch’ game further and I think it really is a game that can help solidify language skills. I would go through the story/new vocabulary and pick out the words that the students were finding a little harder to grasp. Then I would use these words for the ‘touch’ game, making sure to switch up the placement of the words and the actual words themselves.

Grade 4 were learning a section in their school book called ‘Their new clothes’. They learnt new phrases like; ‘Anna was wearing a red shirt and a purple skirt’, and ‘Bob is wearing a blue tie and brown trousers’. We also played a game in which the students had to guess which student was which. They did very well!

This week also marks my final week at Tanghu Primary School. Due to familial problems, I will be leaving for England soon. I have never felt sadder at the prospect of leaving a workplace, but everyone here has made me feel so welcome and I feel a real friendship with them.

I am saddened that I will not be able to see the students grow and develop their language skills, but they are in such good hands with the teachers at Tanghu Primary that I know they will excel!

 I would like to say a special thanks to Jeff, a real and true friend I have made in China. Jeff has been here for me since I started teaching in Shuangliu, and I would like to make sure he knows that his friendship and help has been very much appreciated! If ever I have a problem or need help with something, no matter the time or place, Jeff has helped me as much as he can and he has made sure I know all the beautiful places to see here. I will miss him very much!

I am so lucky to have spent the time I have in this school and this beautiful country. Goodbye Tanghu Primary School, you have been amazing!