THURSDAY 6/29
Today I had the opportunity to visit the school pool three times. In the morning, I visited the pool while the 5th grade swam. I watched them do their warm up exercises and then exercise in the pool.
I think they are very lucky to have a pool at their school and wish the same for children in my community. Apparently, all elementary schools have a pool. The expense of the pools is justified as an emergency water supply, if the need should arise.
Right after I headed to the gymnasium to watch the 2nd grade students greet the kindergarteners.
Kinders do not attend elementary school in Japan; schools are grades 1-6. The second grade students read many speeches, and several games were played. My favorite was a combination of rock, paper, scissors/ musical chairs and conga line.
Not only did I go to the pool, but also I assisted in three English lessons with Kaori. We visited the 4th grade class and helped them prepare for a presentation to a group of visitors about Japan and England. Each student had learned a few lines in English about their picture and we practiced correct pronunciation. Many students were timid to share their lines with me, and I noticed their teacher actually forcing some of them to stand in my line and read their lines to me. Overall, I think the students spoke very clear English.
Right before lunch, I went back to the pool to see the sixth grade swimming. Their teachers made them swim many laps. One boy was more interested in pouring water on my legs than in doing the physical exercise.
After lunch, two English lessons with Kaori. We visited with the second grade and sixth grade. The second graders had many questions for me. They were fascinated to find out details about my house and family.
Finally, the day ended with a project meeting. At this point, everything is still "flexible." We have a lot to discuss at our meeting next Thursday.
Uji should have arrived in Japan today, so I am looking forward to seeing him Monday evening.