When garden sprouts begin to show, add some nutrient to help them grow. In October, sprouts were nurtured from the garden to the classroom.

Early October, students accompanied ETA Alexandra Gwynn and Ibu Sofi in making nutrient for SMKN 9 Malang’s garden. The process was researched and communicated in both English and Indonesian. The garden cocktail consisted of rice water, red sugar, and EM4 (effective microorganisms). After the mixture fermented it was added to soil and compost.

Subsequently, both teacher and English Clubs students learned about green schools across America and Indonesia. Both clubs discussed an article about California students who presented a bill about water conservation to the California State Assembly. The takeaway— how can students at SMKN 9 Malang problem solve local community issues? Throughout October, both English clubs researched schools that use project-based learning.

In class, students expanded their vocabulary (adjectives and verbs) knowledge with board games, flashcards, song lyrics, and cross word puzzles. They integrated the arts and English by making announcement posters for upcoming school events such as SMKN 9 Malang’s 13th school anniversary.

Alexandra hosted a healthy food campaign in mid-October. She made morning smoothies for teachers, and in exchange, teachers made treats like turmeric and sour leaf ice pops, rujak manis, asam (tamarind), and wedang uwuh.

Throughout October, Alexandra was introduced to the art of gamelan and batik making. She also started playing chess with students as a new way to connect.
Alexandra Gwynn is currently teaching at SMKN 9 Malang, East Java