@FIONA SMITH
@DATA TYPE: RETROSPECTIVE
@LANGUAGE: ENGLISH
@COUNTRY: FRANCE
@PARTICIPANTS: S 
@SETTING: PRIVATE
@TIME: LATE
@SCHOOL: SECONDARY

Timetable

My timetable was ready in the second week although for the first two weeks I observed classes, just to familiarise myself with the classes and the language.  I have all of the classes from the 4/3ime up until the Terminale (and some BTS).  The last few weeks I have been replacing an English teacher in the collge who has been off for three months.  My timetable is very busy and changes every week.

Examinations

I am responsible for the preparation of the BAC and so often we will spend time working on a set text and oral practice.  This adds to the general English class.  It is an extra hour for them to work on their knowledge of English literature.

Language

I feel that I am able to speak English with the older classes at an almost 'normal' level; their English has improved a lot and they find it easier to understand native speakers.  However, with the younger classes, I do often speak French, to explain a task for example, or when they have a problem. This works just as well since it helps them to understand what is expected of them.

Confidence

My confidence has really increased since I first began teaching; my students are enthusiastic and responsive as regards to my lesson.  The teachers are appreciative and respect me.  This really made me feel at ease.

I feel that I gave the right impression of myself in this recording.  However, the recording was taken at the beginning of my sjour and so I was still getting to know my responsable.  I do feel that the recording was as natural and relaxed as could have been possible.

My relationship with my responsable has gone from strength to strength and I really believe that I am seen as a respected member of staff.  Our relationship is a personal one and she is extremely helpful.  I am lucky enough to be able to spend the weekend with several different teachers and so I now feel that there are several people whom I can relate to and confide in wherever a problem may arise.

I feel that my tmoignage only shows the beginning of our relationship because of the date.  I feel perhaps a second recording would be beneficial so that a clearer understanding can be gathered.

I am told that I have really adapted in to the 'French way of life' and that I have made an impression on both staff and students.  I have a positive relationship with my responsable.  I feel that positive feedback is essential in a sjour like this as it give us confidence that we need when starting teaching in a foreign country.  Even if the comments that are given are not always 100% correct!  It still give us the confidence we need to progress on a personal and professional level.

There are several students who have specifically asked me for an extra hour aweek tuition.  This enables me to interact a lot more on a personal level with them whilst at the same time being able to help them with their homework etc.



2


