In September, ETA Nathan “Nate” Kumar has learned that, at times, it can be difficult to get students engaged in class. For many students, English is their third language, they have been in class since 6:30 in the morning, and they are often in the same room all day. As such, it is understandable why students may have low levels of enthusiasm.

That’s why Nate has enjoyed seeing flashes of excitement when his students particularly connect with a certain activity or aspect from a lesson. For example, when playing the song “I Will Wait” by Mumford and Sons for a lesson on intentions, one student searched for the song on YouTube because he wanted to learn how to learn it outside of class.

In a different class, another student was thrilled to act out being a member of the Avengers during an activity on congratulations. Nate has found that these moments of excitement encourage English learning and provide energy in classrooms where it was otherwise lacking. Nate will continue to search for activities that elicit these passionate responses.

Nathan “Nate” Kumar is currently teaching at SMA Nahdlatul Ulama 1 Gresik, East Java.