Sunday, June 23, 2013

Proud Mother of 21 Young Adults

14-15 June 2013

At first timid and hesitant, twenty one Form Six students from SMK Labis stepped out of their comfort zone, took the plunge, and flawlessly lead a half-day “Under the Sea” themed camp for 80 Standard Three and Four students from two different schools – SK Sri Labis and SK Felda Tenang – in Labis, Johor. I give them full credit for the success of the camp.

In the meetings prior to the camp, we brainstormed themes, activities, and the desired structure of the camp. From the beginning, the students understood that they were responsible for the success of the camp. Thus, they put all of their energy into planning the activities. I was available for clarification or to provide alternative ideas on how to design the camp sessions, but they were the real masterminds.

The night before the camp was to begin, twenty one students, four ETAs, and several English teachers from SMK Labis came to the school for the final camp meeting and also to have some fun. I had planned an English camp for the Form 6 students, complete with games, a scavenger hunt, camp fire and s’mores. We all had a great time and went to bed feeling tired but excited and prepared for the next day.

Camp Fire!

First S'mores!

Bright and early in the morning, the Form 6 students greeted the primary students as they arrived at the primary school where we were hosting the camp. One of the schools in attendance has never had an English camp before. The students looked scared, but the facilitators quickly began making them feel welcome. I took a step back and watched the magic unfold. The secondary students brought the primary students from the two schools together and began their interactions which will surely last beyond the duration of the camp.

Greeting the students

Introductions and Baby Shark Song

Throughout the camp, the Form 6 students maintained high-energy levels, reprimanded each other for not speaking English, ensured every primary school student was having a good time, made sure all of the activities ran on time, and of course, lead the activities – songs, games, relay races, water activities, and English water-themed Pictionary.


Flour power!

The aftermath of blowing flour

In addition to developing their leadership skills, this camp was designed to prepare the students for their MUET exams in July, specifically the English speaking exam. From their reflections, I know the students found the experience to be beneficial, as I hoped it would. Over the course of just a few short hours, I saw my students transform from quiet and nervous-excited individuals to confident, enthusiastic, and independent young adults. I couldn’t be more proud of what they accomplished or more content with the improvements they made to their speaking skills throughout this process.

Group photo

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