Teachers: Leslie Douglas & Michelle Chapman [email protected] & [email protected]
My name is Leslie Douglas, and I'm from Franklin, Tennessee, a town which is about a twenty-five minute drive from Vanderbilt University here in Nashville. I don't know what I want to focus on in my studies just yet or what job I want to have, but I like English and history. I love to read, and I have a pretty good memory when it comes to visual learning. I also like to play tennis, but I'm not very good at sports otherwise. I'm really excited to work with all of you, and I hope you guys are pretty excited, too!
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I'm so excited to teach you guys again this year! Our class has a great connection, and I can tell everyone is getting more confident in their English abilities. I'm so proud of how far you all have come and where the future will take each and every one of you!
As always, if you ever have any questions or just want to talk, my email address is: [email protected] I would love to hear from you! |
2013-2014
April 3rd
Today's Lesson:
http://www.cnn.com/2014/04/02/world/asia/malaysia-airlines-plane/index.html?hpt=hp_inthenews
The Malaysian government has been criticized for its lack of truthful communication with the public about the missing airline. At the beginning of the investigation, about 27 days ago, they reported that the last words from the pilot were, "All right, goodnight," but recently, they changed that story, saying the last words were, "Goodnight, Malaysian 370."
We also talked about wisdom teeth!
The Malaysian government has been criticized for its lack of truthful communication with the public about the missing airline. At the beginning of the investigation, about 27 days ago, they reported that the last words from the pilot were, "All right, goodnight," but recently, they changed that story, saying the last words were, "Goodnight, Malaysian 370."
We also talked about wisdom teeth!
Homework Assignment:
Do you think it's important that governments communicate truthfully with the public? Is it our right to know everything that goes on, or are there some things we're better off not knowing? More generally, do you think "honesty is the best policy"?
March 27
Today's Lesson:
Today, we talked about first impressions and how our perspectives on certain people or activities change over time. I was so impressed with everyone and how well you spoke. Everyone was so involved and willing to learn, thank you! Please do the homework and think a little bit more about how/when your perspectives can change. We look forward to meeting with you next week!
Homework Assignment:
Write down a time when your perspective changed. When you first met your best friend, what did you think? How did you meet? After you got to know one another, how did your perspective change? What new things did you learn?
March 6
Today's Lesson:
Today students presented their homework from the assignment from February 27th. Responses were very eloquently worded and profound! The film crew came in and LOVED the class. They were so impressed by your answers and your English skills, and we'll share the video with you once that comes out.
Homework assignment:
The students who didn't present today will have a chance to go next week!
February 27th
Homework:
In the year 1908, G. K. Chesterton was asked by the London Times to write an essay answering the question, "What is wrong with the world?" He wrote the following letter back to the magazine:
"Dear Sirs,
I am.
G. K. Chesterton"
His answer inspired the naming of the documentary film entitled "I am" that was created over 100 years later (in the year 2010). The documentary attempted to answer two questions:
#1: What is wrong with the world? and #2: What can we do to fix it?
Homework Questions: Chesterton was a very average man. He had never done anything to intentionally harm any other person, animal, or thing in his lifetime, and yet he responded to the question about what was wrong with the world with the answer "I am."
...What do you think he meant?
...What is wrong with our world?
...What can we do to fix it?
In the year 1908, G. K. Chesterton was asked by the London Times to write an essay answering the question, "What is wrong with the world?" He wrote the following letter back to the magazine:
"Dear Sirs,
I am.
G. K. Chesterton"
His answer inspired the naming of the documentary film entitled "I am" that was created over 100 years later (in the year 2010). The documentary attempted to answer two questions:
#1: What is wrong with the world? and #2: What can we do to fix it?
Homework Questions: Chesterton was a very average man. He had never done anything to intentionally harm any other person, animal, or thing in his lifetime, and yet he responded to the question about what was wrong with the world with the answer "I am."
...What do you think he meant?
...What is wrong with our world?
...What can we do to fix it?
February 20th
Today's Lesson:
Students discussed which super powers they would want to have, and why.
Homework:
Since the boys have exams coming up, we did not give an assignment other than a posted article about the Winter Olympics in Sochi, Russia, because they are currently underway and the world is watching. Here again is the link for the article:
http://www.timeforkids.com/news/let-games-begin/144911
Students discussed which super powers they would want to have, and why.
Homework:
Since the boys have exams coming up, we did not give an assignment other than a posted article about the Winter Olympics in Sochi, Russia, because they are currently underway and the world is watching. Here again is the link for the article:
http://www.timeforkids.com/news/let-games-begin/144911
February 13th
Today's Lesson:
Today we talked about the holiday Valentine's Day; students asked what the holiday is like in the United States.
Homework:
If you could choose any super power to have, what would it be, and why? Think about super heroes and their super human abilities to fly or stop time, for example. If you could have a super power like these heroes, which would you choose?
Today we talked about the holiday Valentine's Day; students asked what the holiday is like in the United States.
Homework:
If you could choose any super power to have, what would it be, and why? Think about super heroes and their super human abilities to fly or stop time, for example. If you could have a super power like these heroes, which would you choose?
February 6th
Today's Lesson:
Students and teachers were unable to have an extended class, because the audio and the video connections on Skype were not working well.
Homework:
Though the teachers did not get to the powerpoint about Pakistani inventors, students were asked about inventions. Specifically: if you could invent anything in the world, what would you choose to create, and why? How would it help you in your life or other people in theirs?
Students and teachers were unable to have an extended class, because the audio and the video connections on Skype were not working well.
Homework:
Though the teachers did not get to the powerpoint about Pakistani inventors, students were asked about inventions. Specifically: if you could invent anything in the world, what would you choose to create, and why? How would it help you in your life or other people in theirs?
January 30th
Today's Lesson:
Students shared what they had done on Eid Milad Nabi, as well as what the customs and practices are on this holiday in Pakistan. Class did not meet last week because of technical difficulties/connection issues, but thankfully those were mostly resolved this week.
Homework:
Though the teachers did not get to the powerpoint about Pakistani inventors, students were asked about inventions. Specifically: if you could invent anything in the world, what would you choose to create, and why? How would it help you in your life or other people in theirs?
Today's Lesson:
Students shared what they had done on Eid Milad Nabi, as well as what the customs and practices are on this holiday in Pakistan. Class did not meet last week because of technical difficulties/connection issues, but thankfully those were mostly resolved this week.
Homework:
Though the teachers did not get to the powerpoint about Pakistani inventors, students were asked about inventions. Specifically: if you could invent anything in the world, what would you choose to create, and why? How would it help you in your life or other people in theirs?
January 16th
Today's Lesson:
Students discussed what they had done over the break between classes last semester and this semester, and teachers talked about their experiences over winter break.
Homework:
Tell us about what people in Pakistan do on Eid Milad Nabi. Enjoy your holiday and share your experiences with us next week!
November 20th:
Today's Lesson:
Students shared their buildings. Teachers talked briefly about Thanksgiving.
Homework:
This is the last class of the semester. Be safe, and we can't wait to see you all again in the Spring!
November 6th:
Today's Lesson:
Students asked the teachers questions about anything they wanted to know about America and its culture. Teachers and students then discussed the differences in architecture between Pakistan and America.
buildings.pptx | |
File Size: | 4024 kb |
File Type: | pptx |
Today's Homework:
If you were an architect, what kind of building would you build?
Draw a picture and describe what that building would be used for. Would it be a mosque, a school, etc?
Draw a picture and describe what that building would be used for. Would it be a mosque, a school, etc?
October 29th:
Today's Lesson:
Today we talked about weddings in Pakistan and in America.
Today's Homework:
This is your chance to ask us absolutely anything! Think of a question you'd like to know the answer to, and ask it next week!
October 23rd:
Today's Lesson:
Today, the boys shared about the Eid holiday, and we shared our dance. This led to the topic of dances at weddings.
Today's Homework:
Tell us about weddings in Pakistan - about the food you eat, the people you invite, and so on. We will compare American and Pakistani weddings next week!
October 9th:
Today's Lesson:
Unfortunately we have run out of time for class today...We're so sorry to the boys who didn't get to perform, but we can take time at the beginning of class next week to share dances. Leslie and I will have something prepared by next week too! To the boys who did share their dances: You guys are so good, and we enjoyed watching your performances! There is no homework for this week. Again, we're so sorry the connection failed. Have a great week everyone!
Today's Homework Assignment:
No homework!
October 2nd:
Today's Lesson:
lesson_4.pptx | |
File Size: | 1613 kb |
File Type: | pptx |
Today's Homework Assignment:
Think of songs and dances you would like to share next time, and we will share one as well!
September 25th:
Today's Lesson:
Students shared what they would do if they were Access teachers. Class ended early so the students could pack and gather things for their trip to Lahore.
Today's Homework Assignment
Tell us about your trip to Lahore! What are some things you saw, and what are some things you did? Have fun and be safe!!
September 18th:
Today's Lesson:
lesson_2.pptx | |
File Size: | 2874 kb |
File Type: | pptx |
Today's Homework Assignment
Is your glass half empty or half full? (American metaphor)
A glass that is half empty or half full has the same amount of water inside it, it just depends on how you view the glass. Saying the glass is half full is a positive way to view the glass, and saying the glass is half empty is a more negative view.
This same "view" can be applied to every day life. Do you focus on the good things in life? Or do you focus on the bad things?
For homework, focus on the good things!
Draw a picture of a glass container (it can be any shape) and fill it with pictures of things that make your life good.
A glass that is half empty or half full has the same amount of water inside it, it just depends on how you view the glass. Saying the glass is half full is a positive way to view the glass, and saying the glass is half empty is a more negative view.
This same "view" can be applied to every day life. Do you focus on the good things in life? Or do you focus on the bad things?
For homework, focus on the good things!
Draw a picture of a glass container (it can be any shape) and fill it with pictures of things that make your life good.
2012-2013
The Students
Haroon Qureshi, Jaffir Raza, Shahryar, Usman Qadri, Usama Raheem, Ehsaan Ramzan, Ghazi ul Haq, Amir Aslam, Muhammad Osama, Muhammad Waseem, Atif Quddoos Ansari, Muhammad Ali Aslam, Israr Javed, Muhammed Zeeshan, Faizan Elahi, Muhammad Asif
September 19th
Today's Lesson:
wavin_flags-1.pptx | |
File Size: | 123 kb |
File Type: | pptx |
Today's Homework Assignment:
Create a flag that represents YOU. Include what you love, who you love, any hobbies you have, and things about your country or religion. Just make it your flag, and remember, there's no wrong way to do that! We'll talk about the flags we make next week!
Student Work:
September 26th
Today's Lesson:
lesson_2_.pptx | |
File Size: | 325 kb |
File Type: | pptx |
Today's Homework Assignment:
1.) Imagine that you are a teacher. How would you make sure that your students were learning the best that they could? What would you do? How would you help your students? How would you help your students help each other?
2.) Think about your future goals and dreams. What are they? How will you reach them? What will you have to learn? How will you learn it?
Pick one of the above topics, and write a short response. You can do both if you want to!
2.) Think about your future goals and dreams. What are they? How will you reach them? What will you have to learn? How will you learn it?
Pick one of the above topics, and write a short response. You can do both if you want to!
October 3rd
Today's Lesson:
pakistan_3.pptx | |
File Size: | 572 kb |
File Type: | pptx |
Today's Homework Assignment:
Make your own riddle, or find a riddle to share with the class next week. This will be group work, so find pick a partner! The riddle can be extremely difficult or really easy. It’s completely up to you!
October 10th
Today's Lesson:
pakistan_4.pptx | |
File Size: | 1293 kb |
File Type: | pptx |
Today's Homework Assignment:
Your homework is to choose an event or
holiday in Pakistan, and to write one paragraph describing how people dress,
what people eat, and what they do during the celebration (feel free to draw a picture).
October 17th
Today's Lesson:
pakistan_5.pptx | |
File Size: | 1165 kb |
File Type: | pptx |
Today's Homework Assignment:
Think of a folktale or legend from your own country. Write a paragraph about it to share with us next Wednesday. Try to keep it as short as possible to make sure we have enough time!
October 24th
Today's Lesson:
pakistan_6.pptx | |
File Size: | 940 kb |
File Type: | pptx |
Today's Homework Assignment:
Come up with something you would like to learn more about, and we’ll see if we can do a lesson on it! In addition to sharing in class, please turn in these requests to your teacher, so they can report them to us!
November 7th
Today's Lesson:
pakistan_7.pptx | |
File Size: | 1257 kb |
File Type: | pptx |
Today's Homework Assignment:
This has nothing to do with Halloween, but find an English word you didn’t know before. Share its definition in class next week!
Class Pictures!
Photos of students and their work.
November 14th
Today's Lesson:
pakistan_8.pptx | |
File Size: | 2700 kb |
File Type: | pptx |
Today's Homework Assignment:
This isn't in the powerpoint, but in American colleges (this may be true for Pakistan; I hope you'll tell us!) there are many different 'majors' you can specialize in. A major is a path in which you can take classes that you are completely fascinated by! If you are interested in art, you can major in art. If you are interested in European history, you can major in European history. This is true for math, biology, chemistry, neuroscience, Asian studies, economics, German, and theater as well. Think of what interests you the most (something you could major in) to share with us! If you want, you can draw a picture of a job you hope to have in the future.
Class Pictures!
Photos of students and their work.
November 28
Today's Lesson:
pakistan_9.pptx | |
File Size: | 1943 kb |
File Type: | pptx |
Today's Homework Assignment:
We will spend a lot of next week's class listening to you tell us about your political system and important people from Pakistan. Be sure to have something you want to tell is!
December 5th
Today's Lesson:
Student's will share about their country's history and political system. There will also be an opportunity for students to ask any other questions they have about the American education system of election.
Student's will share about their country's history and political system. There will also be an opportunity for students to ask any other questions they have about the American education system of election.
Today's Homework Assignment:
Since next week is the last week, we will spend the entire class next week answering any other final questions you have, and we will try to come up with out own questions for you. If there is anything AT ALL that you would like to know about ANYTHING, ask us next week! We ask that each student comes up with at least one question.
December 12th
THANK YOU SO MUCH! We can honestly say that what you did for us was the best surprise birthday party one could possibly ask for. You are all such amazing people, and I hope we see each other again - both over Skype and in person. We appreciate everything you have done for us and all your kind words. Again, thank you, thank you, thank you!!!
Hope you are enjoying the break!!
We hope all is well in Pakistan, and we miss you all! We still smile every time we think about the birthday party you gave us during the last session. Thank you so much, and hopefully we'll have the same class next semester! If not, remember that you are all wonderful, beautiful, intelligent people and a true blessing to us.
NEW SEMESTER!!!
January 16th
Today's Lesson:
pakistan_1.pptx | |
File Size: | 532 kb |
File Type: | pptx |
Today's Homework Assignment:
Write two of your own metaphors comparing two similar things. Please read “A Special Present” for next class, and create a vocab list (around 10 words) for terms you may not know in the poem.
Challenge: Try writing a poem!
Challenge: Try writing a poem!
pakistan_1_hw.docx | |
File Size: | 66 kb |
File Type: | docx |
January 23rd
Today's Lesson:
lesson_2.pptx | |
File Size: | 5518 kb |
File Type: | pptx |
Today's Homework Assignment:
Draw a picture of what you would like to invent, if given unlimited resources. Try to think about something new! Also, write down or draw one of your favorite inventions! Is it the television, the bicycle, or the computer? You decide!
January 30th
Today's Lesson:
Today the boys shared their homework and talked about their holiday and culture. It was wonderful hearing the stories, so thank you all for sharing!
Today the boys shared their homework and talked about their holiday and culture. It was wonderful hearing the stories, so thank you all for sharing!
Today's Homework Assignment:
Look over these two pictures, and write a short paragraph about them. What do you see? What do you think it means? Do you like the painting?
February 6th
Today's Lesson:
lesson_4.pptx | |
File Size: | 1024 kb |
File Type: | pptx |
Today's Homework Assignment:
Write about a book you would want to publish. What kind of story would you write?
February 13th
Today's Lesson:
lesson_5.pptx | |
File Size: | 921 kb |
File Type: | pptx |
Today's Homework Assignment:
We want to hear about everyone's Valentine's Days!!! Also, read this poem, so we can talk about it at the beginning of class next week. You are all so wonderful!
From here on earth,
From my small place
I ask of You
Way out in space
Please tell all men
In every land
What You and I
Both understand . . .
Please tell all men
That Peace is Good.
That’s all
That need be understood
In every world
In Your great sky.
We understand.
Both You and I.
From here on earth,
From my small place
I ask of You
Way out in space
Please tell all men
In every land
What You and I
Both understand . . .
Please tell all men
That Peace is Good.
That’s all
That need be understood
In every world
In Your great sky.
We understand.
Both You and I.
February 20th
Today's Lesson:
lesson_6.pptx | |
File Size: | 67 kb |
File Type: | pptx |
Today's Homework Assignment:
So...we did not get to the lesson. There is no homework for next week, but you can look over the powerpoint posted for this week if you would like. We will take a few minutes at the beginning of class so the students can teach us how to say 'God bless you' in Urdu. Have a wonderful week!
February 27th
Today's Lesson:
lesson_7.pptx | |
File Size: | 62 kb |
File Type: | pptx |
Homework Assignment:
No homework! We will meet again the week of April 8th. We can't wait to see you again, and good luck on exams!
April 10th
Today's Lesson:
lesson_8.pptx | |
File Size: | 789 kb |
File Type: | pptx |
Homework Assignment:
Have the students write about what they are curious about and why. If they could do some research on it, that would be great but not a requirement.
April 17th
Today's Lesson:
We enjoyed talking to you. We are so lucky to have had you as our class.
We enjoyed talking to you. We are so lucky to have had you as our class.
No Homework!
This is the last class before the Summer Break. It has been a pleasure teaching you, and we hope to see you again next year! You all are wonderful people with beautiful futures ahead of you. You are already ahead of the game because you have shown dedication to this English class. If you ever need anything, or just want to know something else about America, e-mail us! Hearing from you over the long break would be fantastic! Be safe, and thank you for everything!