Chandan Gill
September 15, 2023
Getting accustomed to life in Madrid has been a mix of fun and amusing challenges. I really do wish I spent more time on Duolingo before arriving… but shoutout to Dora for teaching me the basics! I have found that grocery shopping has become a great way to get to learn the language better. I find myself recognizing words on labels and checking with google lens to see if I’m right. Not to mention, there’s not alot of pressure that comes with walking around a grocery store and reading labels… that is until someone approaches you to tell you the store is closing (true story by the way). Although the language barrier has been a big adjustment, I find myself being able to understand what people are saying a lot better than when I first arrived based on certain words I recognize. Hopefully I can become more comfortable attempting to put together full sentences in Spanish!!
As for teaching I have been assigned to the year 1 classrooms which consist of students aged 5-6. The teaching methods are somewhat familiar – there’s “carpet time,” smartboards, attention grabbers and plenty of desk work. However, there are a few differences that caught my attention. One of the main things is the students’ outdoor “break” time. They enjoy a generous 30 minutes in the morning, a full hour during lunch, and another 30 minutes in the afternoon. But what truly stands out is the way they signal that it’s time to head inside. Instead of bells or whistles, the teachers on duty simply start clapping rhythmically- and although not as loud, it works the same as a bell!
Now that I’m settling into Madrid life, I’m eager to embrace new adventures. I am looking forward to meeting new people, exploring in and around the city, and taking on more roles and responsibilities at the school. So, here’s to Madrid, the city of sunshine (and lately a lot of rain)!
