November was a very busy month that emphasized cultural exchange. ETA Angela Zhu prepared for International Education Week, where students learned about various opportunities in scholarship meetings, engaged in-class activities about various countries, and wrote pen-pal letters to students in America.

Over the first few weeks, students in 10th grade at SMAN 1 Tana Toraja worked on descriptive texts. Using what they learned over a few weeks, the students made brochures about different countries, including the US, Japan, Spain, the Netherlands, Mexico, Brazil, South Africa, Russia, and India. These brochures became part of a display Angela made in the library for International Education Week, where students and staff visited and read the works made by the 10th graders. Student advertisements were also displayed. Students thought of things that were not real but would help the world become a better place. Ideas ranged from a hydroelectric motorcycle to bread that would help you remember things quickly.

Aside from International Education Week, November also marks Día de los Muertos, the Day of the Dead. Lesson plans surrounded the theme of honoring and remembering people’s lives. Angela was inspired by Torajan culture and traditions that honor those that passed away through grand funeral ceremonies. Students learned a little about Día de los Muertos, including some customs and the meaning behind the day. Using sugar skull worksheets, students wrote about their past memories with their loved ones and how those memories made them feel.

Meanwhile, in the English Club, members worked hard to build their pen-pal letters to be sent to American students. Students learned about how to write introductions, talk about their daily activities, describe their culture, and form questions for their American pen-pals. The students were excited to put together their letters!

Angela Zhu is currently teaching at SMAN 1 Tana Toraja, South Sulawesi.