Despite being dead broke. Oh well! It was still a great time. Why? you ask. Well...I think the main thing is that I finally found a way to control my Sunchild kids. Really, I have come up with a system that makes them WANT to participate, WANT to behave, and WANT to not make fun of the silly American trying to teach them in not-so-good Armenian. It is B E A utiful!
It is very basic. I made a chart that had all of their names on it (with lots of open space after each name) then explained to them that from now on, I will be awarding stars for participation and good behavior, and would be drawing minus's for not-so-good behavior. When one person reached 20 stars, I would bring something in for the whole class.
When I first introduced the system, I thought they would laugh and think it was stupid, but oh no sir...they LIVE for stars, they BREATHE for stars. Even the 16 year old boy has become enraptured by the prospect of earning stars! hahahahaha i love it! Even the minus's do their job, just the threat of a minus or a gesture toward the chart with a not-so-happy look on my face brings about the immediate fixing of whatever behavior I did not like. I LOVE IT!
It is going to make my classes that much more effective and that much less chaotic (and stressful!).
Other things that are probably contributing to my happiness:
The amazing time I had hanging out at the Marine house last weekend. It included a real grill, with REAL burgers, and REAL cheese. We also relaxed playing pool and Guitar Hero. It was a nice, all-American night!
The upcoming hockey game on Saturday night, or more correctly games. It is going to be a great time with a large group of PCVs going...what fun! and who doesn't love a hockey game!
36 days and counting to EGYPT and DUBAI!!! That is right, the tickets are bought and (almost) paid for..which means I can officially start my countdown! Myself and 2 other volunteers will be visiting Dubai, Cairo, Alexandria, and Luxor, and more than a few places in between. If anyone has suggestions for places to go...let me know!
Well..I just found a free ride to Yerevan tomorrow, but my host mum has to call and let them know..that means internet time for me is over for a little bit.
Enjoy the beach!
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