Since I had taught a Western culture class last semester, this speech was pretty fun and easy. I just went over some pictures that represented some key differences and added in a few more of my own. I've shown these pictures before in a previous blog post.
The students seemed to like the discussion and were particularly intrigued by the pictures of Western food, tanning salons/beds, and the type and cost of Chinese food in America. To be honest, I think they were more interested in the introduction of my hometown and family than anything else because I showed a lot of pictures.
Next week David is talking about Kung Fu in America, then Sean will talk on Baseball and American football and Jordan will finish the lecture series up with the view of men and women in the U.S.A. Should be interesting!
Tonight we had English Corner and many students that attended had also gone to my speech the night before. When I asked if they liked it these were the responses I got (not surprisingly):
"You could have shown a lot more pictures of you and Sean together. We are interested in this."
"We want to hear about your wedding."
"You should have sang a song. We all want to hear you sing."
"Maybe you could have talked more about why Americans don't have to study a second language like we Chinese do."
I'll keep these in mind for next time . . .
Hi Sarah,
This is Julie Zwart, Amy's sister. Your mom ran into Amy the other week at church and gave her your blog address, which she passed on to me. I enjoy reading about your experiences in China and find that I can relate-- I'm teaching at a university in Hangzhou, and also have a mosquito infestation problem. I have a blog too, but don't write nearly as often as you. It you're interested: www.thisredlife.wordpress.com
Take care, and enjoy the rest of your time in China!
-Julie