Teaching English in Chinggis City

As many of you know, I came to Mongolia to teach English. I was expecting to work with Mongolian teachers and professionals, however I was placed with the Intro English speaking students, (which has turned out to be kids and teens, my hearts desire!). It has been very challenging because most of them only know basic English phrases and I do not have a translator.

Some of My Students

 The first day, I had one student walk into my class and take a seat. I asked all the students to write their name on a piece of paper for a name plate. She just looked at me and stared. I recognized her stare, it's the same one my 1st graders give me when they don't understand, I felt right at home! I quickly found out not only did she not understand a word I was saying, she had no idea how to write her name in English. She had never seen the English alphabet before. I was in shock! 

Needless to say, she is slowly improving and now able to write her name in English.

As a whole,  Mongolia has a very high need for teachers because  students are willing to do whatever it takes to take an English class. For many Mongolians, it means they have a shot at a better paying job.