Reflective thoughts and notes from Teacher Training workshop at Taipei American School        by Nancy Tseng     

Day one 7,29,2008 I came to the workshop with a cautious, suspicious state of mind wondering what the instructors will make us do in the workshop. Would I be embarrassed in front of all the fellow teachers of Taipei County? Would this be terrible long boring day? Why made us come to a workshop during summer vacation? All these questions I had on mind before the beginning of the workshop. At the end of today’s session, I happily went home with a hopeful, joyful, and fruitful spirit thinking that tomorrow there will be more fun and learning, I believe.Thanks to the presenters, Peter, Lynn, and Leslie. Your jokes made time flew faster. Thanks to Annie, the pizza, snacks and drinks were just nice. 肛溫啦～～ Let’s get down to business.What you presented, made us do and learn…1.    Do be on time. Be supportive, open up our minds, etc.2.    Ways to get students attention—clapping hands, gestures, etc.3.    Number Heads and glyph activity to get students involve in discussion and report findings.4.    Knowing the differences and applications with BICS and CALP.5.    Discussion on reasons for learning English, i.e., job, technology, traveling, friendship, and culture. 6.    Discussion on our school’s English Program about its advantages and further possible developments.7.    How to do a book reading/story telling that motivate students’ interests in listening and reading the story. I’m ready for tomorrow.