Student News

First of all, there appears to be a trend sweeping Chilean classrooms that I did not realize was a trend until after it happened to me.  One of my adorable freshmen raised his hand to ask me, 'Maddie, how do you say "vayanse" in English?' Without even looking up from what I was doing, I answered, '"go away,"' and half the class stood up and started walking towards the door!  Luckily, this is one of my favorite classes and they were only doing it as a joke--none of them actually left, they just thought it was hilarious that I had fallen for it. I also thought it was hilarious. But later I saw a bunch of youtube videos of high school classes tricking their unsuspecting grammar teachers and actually making a break for it. A bunch of hoodlums.

On a different note, I have been practicing a LOT with our team of English debate students over the past two weeks, and yesterday we had our first competition day.  The topic was "rap music has a negative influence on youth," and our team was arguing opposition (so saying that rap music does NOT have a negative influence).  They tied for second place!!! I was so worked up about it and then so obnoxiously proud of them. They're fantastic. I brag a lot about how awesome my students are to the other volunteers, and it was pretty satisfying when my friends admitted how impressed they were. YEAH COLEGIO SAN FRANCISCO.

last-minute rehearsal in the library

then showtime!

somehow sheepish about having their picture taken even though they had just killed it up at the podium

there we go!

We have to go back to do proposition on Monday. Still practicing, but I already know they'll be great!


[host family postscript:] my host dad has taken to calling me Maddieboots.  Glad to know the appeal of my full name is more powerful than any language barrier! My host mom was getting on his case about it but I had to step in and explain that actually a lot of people call me that and it's totally fine.  It's kind of a nice little taste of home, actually! So he happily continues to do it. Just thought you would all appreciate that : )