One Month in 5th Grade

I have officially been in Nicaragua for over a month and have been in the 5th grade classroom for 4 weeks!  I have been teaching for the past 7 days and have enjoyed it.  There have been some rough moments, with bullying issues, too much chatting, and students not turning in their work, but I'm learning that these moments will come with teaching anywhere.  I still love going to the classroom every day, even if it is at 6:15 in the morning! 

My cooperating teacher and 5th grade team continue to be such a blessing.  They are not only helping me with the work in school, but they are also giving me advice about life, the job search, etc.  Their words of encouragement and support are so helpful and appreciated. 

In science, the students are working on the human body and the systems.  This is a really fun unit, and since there isn't a textbook, my cooperating teacher and I are coming up with some really creative ideas for the unit.  They've done body systems projects and will be doing a play later in the week.  I actually enjoy teaching science, even if it is the same lesson 3 times a day!  All of the kids are different though so each class is very unique. 

The lack of transportation in Nicaragua and the lack of sidewalks has started to become a bit frustrating.  I would really enjoy a safe transportation system and/or the availability to walk places, but that isn't advised in this country for foreigners.  I enjoy Nicaragua, but I miss the ease of travel in the States.  This weekend we were able to travel to the Laguna again, and each time I am just amazed by how beautiful it is!  We are also going to an internet cafe to work on lesson plans and the dreaded teacher work sample.  The next few weekends will be more adventure-filled, so hopefully my next update will be more exciting.

Below are some pictures some of my students presenting their projects and a picture of us at the Laguna!