Tips for New ALTs

                     
                         Being a foreign teacher in Japan is quite stressful yet it's a rewarding experience. A lot of first timers get nervous and confused when they start going to Japanese schools. I also used to feel disoriented on my first few days here so now that I'm on my second spring semester in Japan, I'd like to give some pieces of advice for new ALTs.

1. Dress to impress.
                 First impression lasts so it's better to show a nice image of yourself on your first day at school. ALTs are usually required to wear suits but in some rural areas, it's ok to wear sweatpants. Just to be safe, it's still better to wear suits on your first day and ask the teachers if it's ok to wear sweatpants next time. Be sure that you don't look tired or sleepy, it's always better to show a happy disposition at school. Japanese are very observant so you might also want to clean your fingernails, shave your beard and have a proper haircut before going to school.

2. Always be on time.
                 You should neither be very early nor late at school. (Well, maybe at least 15 minutes earlier is ok). Time is money for many Japanese so please don't be late or should I say, please don't steal money from them. It's also good to go to classrooms at least 5 minutes before class hours so you can talk to some students freely.
           
3. Be polite and friendly to everyone.
                 You might be the only foreigner that the teachers and students at your schools know so show a good example of someone from outside Japan. A lot of them might really be nervous when you are around, some might even avoid you but try to be friendly with them. A sincere smile can never fail you. If possible, it'll be great if you can memorize some common Japanese words such as ohayou gozaimasu (good morning), konnichiwa (hello/good afternoon), sumimasen (excuse me/sorry for troubling you) and otsukaresamadesu (thank you for your hard work). They wouldn't expect you to say them but they'd be glad to hear you say those words.

4. Put your feet on the ground.
                 Being down to earth is a must in Japan if you really want to have a harmonious relationship with your workmates. In relation to teaching, some of us might feel quite aggressive at times because we think we are better than the Japanese teachers but please try to control yourself. Observe everything first before you speak, you might be surprised with the difference of Japanese education system with the one that you have in your country. If you really can't stop yourself, then try to ask the Japanese teacher in a very subtle way. Make suggestions and talk about what you are planning to do instead of sounding authoritative.

5. Don't be troublesome.
                 Mendokusai (troublesome) is a common Japanese expression. And no you wouldn't like to be one. Japanese teachers are often busy so as much as possible, don't disturb them. Ask for help only when you think you have no choice but to do so (such as when using copiers etc).

6. Ask for permission.
                  Everyone is careful when using the school's materials so it'll be appreciated if you'd ask for permission first before using some things at school. Just say kore o tsukatte mo ii desu ka? (May I use this?).

7. Watch your moves.
                 Because that is what people around you are doing. Try not to be absent-minded while at work. Even staring outside the window for a few seconds would make your workmates think you have a big problem though you really have no reason for doing it.

8. Keep yourself busy.
                 You might not have classes sometimes but try to do something other than using your phone or sleeping. It's awkward to do nothing in the middle of hardworking people. Think of English lessons, study Japanese, talk to some school staffs, check students' papers etc.

9. Observe and imitate.
                  This can save you from many problems. When you are unsure of what to do (such as how to eat an unfamiliar school lunch), just observe the people around you and you might find the answer to your question. In this way, you can save yourself from shame.

10. Bow sincerely.
                   Last, don't forget to bow! It's the best way to show how humble you are in Japan. Don't forget to use your back instead of your neck when doing this.

                   I hope these reminders can help you to have a better teaching experience at school. It's not necessary to follow them but they can help you to have a better life at your workplace. Gambatte kudasai (Please do you best)!

A very surprising message on my first day at my JHS. :)

Volunteering in Tohoku

                        I've been thinking of volunteering in Tohoku since I arrived in Japan. Unfortunately, there were many hindrances such as my location (it's more than 700 kilometers away from the area), money issues, my friends backed out, volunteer houses were full, those who couldn't speak Japanese well couldn't be accepted etc. It took time for me to look for a volunteer group but I finally found OGA for Aid. Angela Ortiz, the director of the administration, patiently replied to me and guided me all throughout the time I joined their group. Using seishun 18 kippu (cheapest way to travel in Japan), I traveled to Tohoku alone. From Sendai station, I needed to travel by bus for 2 hours to go to OGA's bunkhouse. I slept on the bus, when I got up, I saw nothing but a huge rice field. I'm used to seeing this scenery in Japan but when I checked  if we're already near using google map, I was shocked to realize that we were actually in the middle of the disaster-stricken area! I couldn't believe how the tsunami erased everything on its way.

                      I taught English to a junior high school student. The boy looked excited to see a new face in their town so we talked for quite a long time. I also happily helped in OGA's Green Farmers Association. From the top of the hill  where the farm is located, I stared at the seemingly peaceful ocean. I learned that before March 11, 2011, Minamisanriku residents were leading simple lives with fishing as the main source of livelihood.

                        Before going back to the bunkhouse, we went to Shizugawa, the place with the highest death rate during the tsunami. I can't help but stare at what I saw- the whole place was erased from the map. It is hard to comprehend that the place where hundreds of buildings were once located is now a ghost town.  I felt weak as I look at the swept away bridge (I honestly thought they were just starting to build it up), broken cars, pile of debris, twisted steel and all the reminders of the incident. All those reminded me how strong can nature be.

                   Schools are located in high areas so most of the students were safe. I went in front of Shizugawa JHS, it probably was a great spot for looking at the whole town but now the scenery is just an eye sore. I find it unbearable to imagine how the students survived watching their town with their family and everything they have be swallowed by the tsunami.

view from Shizugawa JHS

                    I remembered the JHS student I taught , I suddenly felt admiration for the boy for being so positive in life. The whole time we talked, he only mentioned the good things they have such as their famous products. He even convinced me to go to Sunshine Village, I learned later on that it's a small mall made up of tin houses, the only interesting place in the middle of the rubble. He didn't complain about not having lights in roads at night, few buses, no supermarkets etc.

                        During my short stay there, I was lucky to meet the community leaders in a party. All of them happily shared stories but they also seriously talked about how to revive their city. I've learned from Angela and Peter that they also lost their relatives, houses, businesses and almost everything they have. They didn't think of their personal problems, instead, they lead in helping those who need more help. After the tsunami, they starved for almost 3 months but they shared everything they have equally for everyone. Once again, the Japanese showed what most of us forget especially in challenging times- KIZUNA or unity in Japanese. No matter how strong was the tsunami, it didn't take away their relationships and will to survive.

                   You've probably seen a lot of impressive pictures of how the disaster-stricken areas were cleaned up. The truth is the devastated areas are so huge that they still need help in clearing things out. Aside from that, residents also need help in recovering from their traumatic experience. There are still a lot of things to do in Tohoku. Please don't hesitate to give a hand whenever you can, no matter how small your contribution will be. I will always be thankful that I was given the chance to volunteer with this group. I'm looking forward to future projects that will make Tohoku residents' lives better. I know the tsunami is not just the Japanese thing, it is a challenge to all of us, citizens of different nations to unite!

My White Valentine's Day!

                        I had a cold Valentine's Day this year because it snowed a lot (you can take it figuratively too if you want lol). In the morning, I braved my way on this overpass. That was really scary so I did my best not to lose focus or else I might be added to the hundreds of injured people in this year's winter.

                        At school, we piled up snow, I didn't expect it to be that tough! The shovel was heavy and digging the seemingly endless snow drained my energy. I didn't complain because I honestly volunteered to do that. I secretly found the joy in doing it simply because it was my first time and I could never do that in my country.

                        On the other hand, everyone was flying around at school, they were so excited to give and or receive chocolates. They were giving away either giri choco- courtesy chocolates or honmei choco-chocolates of love. Weird though, in Japan, it's women who have to give chocolates to men. I talked to some of my girls and they said this day is their "chance" to confess to the guys they like. After a month, March 14th is White Day and it's the time when guys have to give back the chocolates they received and answer if they feel the same way to the girls who confessed to them. This is really something I find hard to understand because in the Philippines, only men are expected to do the first move in courtship.

                        You're probably wondering if I gave away chocolates or not. The answer is no, hehe. Instead, I gave away these Filipino sweets. The other teachers and my friends here were delighted to receive and eat them since it's special and they can hardly find that in Japan. They're easy to make though, click on the names at the picture's caption to know the recipes if you're interested in making them.

Yema, leche flan and palitaw

                       Here's what I've got in exchange- a box of sinfully delicious chocolates from an old couple I know.  Those are vodka, rum and brandy truffles, I ate them all up but the taste is still so mouth-watering!

Hearts' Day at Yochien!

                       In my place, I have to teach English to Yochien (pre-school) kids three times in a year. My first time was quite a disaster because I really didn't know what to do since it was my first time to teach those energetic kids. The second time was quite better because we made it a Halloween lesson. Now was the third time and it was a Valentine's Day Lesson! Yey! I was so excited!

                        First, I gathered materials from the internet and luckily, I found great flashcards at MES, it's really a very good site for ALTs. Those cute activity sheets by the way are from Super Simple Learning, my kids really loved them!

                        We started the day by doing Yochien's usual morning routine which includes attendance and exercise. After that, I taught the Hello Song and Head, Shoulder, Knees and Toes. We repeated it for about five times, imagine how tiring it was! The kids were so excited and enthusiastic to learn so I didn't mind keeping up with their energy. 

                        Next, I showed them the Valentine's flashcards so they can memorize the English words related to this event. They actually know the words but they pronounce it in Japanese katakana so I emphasized the difference. After that, I taught Janken game in English and I told them to play it when I give them the worksheets. I didn't talk in Japanese when I explained it to them. I just used examples and gestures so they could understand. The Japanese teachers were also there to guide those who were confused but fortunately, most of them understood my instructions. 

   

                        This activity really gave me cuteness overdose! The kids laughed at themselves a lot because they knew they made silly heart faces. I couldn't stop smiling at them too. The feeling was so priceless!

                        When everyone was done, we decided to have a contest. They voted which one has the best worksheet. That was what the kids were doing in the picture below. The Japanese teachers asked them to sit  and make a line in front of the person/project they liked. This made me a little bit nervous because those who didn't have votes might cry but I guess they're very sport.

                        The last part of our lesson was about making pastillas or Filipinos' milk candy. It probably has nothing to do with teaching English but based on how I understood it, English subject in Japan is not just about teaching the language but knowing and appreciating other cultures as well. Besides, the kids already learned a lot of words on that day. 

                        As you can see at the link above, the recipe was so easy. The bigger students helped in mixing the ingredients. Then, we distributed small papers for students to wrap the milk candies that they shaped. Everyone enjoyed eating their pastilllas so the last word I taught for the day was "yummy"!

                         Finally, 2 hours of being with adorable kids was over. I didn't even notice the time because we did a lot of things. I've proven again that the best way to manage hyperactive kids is to keep them busy. Three days in a year might not really be enough but I made sure that these days will be unforgettable for these lovely students. Oh, and of course I gave them "very good" stamps. They proudly show them to their parents while they repeat the English words and expressions they learned.

Leopalace

                    Most ALTs from Interac stay at Leopalace Apartments. These apartments are all around Japan. They are good for those who just moved to this country because they are fully-furnished and rent includes internet connection. Above all, there is no need for a guarantor to rent a Leopalace apartment. 

                     One can easily identify a Leopalace apartment because most houses have the same designs anywhere in Japan. 

                    Usually, Leopalace in cities have lofts while those in countrysides have beds with storage shelves underneath.  Rooms on ground floors have big sliding doors while rooms on second floors are carpeted with smaller windows. 

                         Each apartment has a tv, airconditioner/heater, intercom, microwave and washing machine. It also includes a small kitchen with narrow counter top and an electromagnetic stove.  Bathrooms (with dryers) and toilets are usually separated.

                         These shots were taken in Hatogaya, Kawaguchi-shi, Saitama. Hatogaya used to be an independent city in Saitama but it's so small the government decided to combine it to Kawaguchi. Hato means dove so there are pictures and statues of doves almost everywhere in this place.

                   
                         

When in Japan...

1.     Keep left! Especially on escalators, you must stay at the left side if you’re not on a hurry. The right side is for those who are on a hurry. Weird though, when you go to Kansai region, you have to keep right (the picture above was taken in Osaka)! 

2.       Clean your table after eating at a fast-food. I know this is followed in other countries too but not in ours so I included it here. 

3.   Separate your garbage well; biodegradable,non-biodegradable, cans, bottles etc. You should know the schedule for throwing each.

4.      Pack your groceries after paying at a supermarket. They’ll give you plastic bags; you have to do it on your own. Some supermarkets don't give away plastic bags so you have to buy one or bring your own reusable bag.

5.       Always take off your shoes when entering someone’s house (even at your own house actually).

6.       Don’t go out with wet hair.

7.      As much as possible, go to the toilet when you have to blow your nose (It’s more polite to sniff than to blow your nose in Japan). Also, never use a handkerchief when blowing your nose, they find it gross!

8.       It’s ok to use your phone but never answer phone calls when riding on a train. You even have to turn it off if you are near the priority seats (seats for senior citizens).

9.       Don’t eat while walking.

10.   Apologize (sometimes for no reason at all). Just say “sumimasen” when you are in awkward situations. This word can mean “thank you”, “sorry”, “excuse me” etc.

11. Use both of your hands when accepting something such as business cards, receipts, change etc.

12. Buy a business card holder since you'll receive a lot of business cards.

Arrival and Training Period

                         The 12 of us finally arrived at Narita airport. Thanks to Delta Air for the comfortable and hassle-free flight. We didn't have problems with the immigration too so we looked for Interac's staff  right away and we quickly found him at our meeting place.

                        Our eyes wandered freely as we rode on a limousine bus to Tokyo. We still can hardly believe that we were already in Japan. Dream came true indeed! The sudden change in temperature reminded us that we were no longer in our tropical country.

                       
                         We stayed at Korakuen Garden Hotel in Bunkyo-ku,Tokyo. Each of us was given a nice room. That was my first encounter with a Japanese bidet, it's definitely life-changing! haha Everyone was hungry so they looked for a restaurant as soon as we dropped our luggage but I stayed because I was waiting for my best friend who I haven't seen for four years. The hotel staffs called me when she arrived, it was quite hard for me to understand them. My best friend explained later on that they are Chinese, most of the guests in that hotel are Chinese too. Anyway, I was quite emotional when I saw her but we only talked for a short time because it'll be the start of our training the following day.

                         There were four free breakfast sets to choose from; American style, Japanese style and Chinese style porridge and noodles (no picture). Most of us liked the Japanese style; salmon, rice and miso soup.

                         Someone from Interac picked us up and guided us to the office, it was only about 15 minutes away on foot. The training period started and we were all busy with our demo lessons. I can  never forget our head trainer, Cedric, the South African guy who is quite strict but seriously knowledgeable in his field of expertise. I think of him as someone like my professors in university, he might be harsh in giving comments but I really learned a lot from him. I'm very grateful that he was one of my trainers.

                        During lunch time, we ransacked Japanese cheap restaurants and convenience stores. I didn't have much money so I only bought onigiri. It's cheap, filling and easy to eat. I wasn't good at using chopsticks yet so it's quite shameful  and annoying to go to restaurants whenever I'm really hungry.