With the WORDS competition approaching, ETA Sydney Grafals in Makassar wanted to ensure her students felt confident and prepared. To spark creativity, her school hosted a two-night META ECamp, short for “Me & My ETA English Camp.”

Over three days, 10th- and 11th-graders participated in a range of activities designed to strengthen their English skills, build friendships across grade levels, and practice storytelling in preparation for their local WORDS competition in January.

On Night 1, students arrived in time to pitch tents and play English icebreaker games before dinner and a screening of “Forrest Gump.” The cries from students and teachers for Bubba were sweet enough to move you to tears.

The next morning, Sydney explained the WORDS competition and led a discussion on this year’s theme, “My Community.” Students worked individually to develop story outlines and artwork, then shared their ideas before splitting into groups to plan for the evening talent show.

After lunch, a treasure hunt full of riddles, secret passwords, and clues began across the school, as students worked together to assemble all the parts of a short story. After one team claimed victory, it was time to wash up and prepare for dinner and the big show.

Gathered around a bonfire in everyone’s coziest pajamas, Sydney and her students enjoyed singing, dancing, and skits. One teacher even demonstrated her karaoke chops.

The following morning, students helped clean up before heading home, leaving with new friendships, lasting memories, and increased confidence in English and storytelling.

Sydney Grafals is currently teaching at SMKN 8 Makassar, South Sulawesi.