Second Presentation Day

Today we presented to over 40 English teachers from the surrounding districts. They were an awesome group of teachers. It was also fascinating to present something that I usually do for science teachers to a group of English teachers and listen to their ideas on how they would adapt the key points (and even the "poppers" I used in the hands-on portion) in their classes.

We also had the pleasure of hearing a couple of Moroccan teachers that had completed a Fulbright program in the US on the same workshop day. It was so much fun talking to them and finding out about their experiences. It really reminded us of how there is a special connection between people that have done a Fulbright program. (Which is strange that it clicked during those conversations even though we'd already had some networking opportunities to meet with other Fulbrighters...guess it takes time for points to click for me sometimes. Lol.)

We had the honor of having lunch with our host teacher and her family. What an amazing group of people and the food was so impressive. I think both my partner teacher and I felt like we had barely made a dent in the food (We did! Really!) because there was so much that was so tasty. Even the presentation was gorgeous! It felt like we were having the equivalent of a thanksgiving meal. Random observation - the platter that it was served on was huge. I eventually asked how they cooked it all on the platter and if their ovens were huge. The person I asked was very sweet and didn't laugh at my question but explained that they placed and arranged the food on the platter afterwards. (So, considering all the Tangines and how big they could be, that's why I was think it was cooked together...even though it's obvious (now) that it's not cooked that way.)

Later in the evening we were treated to another home cooked meal at one of our host teacher's friends. It was such a treat to meet another wonderful family and be welcomed into their home as well. Once again, the food and the presentation of the food was gorgeous. The photos of the both home cooked meals don't do them justice on how beautiful they looked (and certainly don't let you know how amazing they tasted.) The family was so sweet in letting us join them and they were all a pleasure to talk with that night. It was sad that we had such a short time to be with them and then we were thrilled to find out the wife was going to join us on Saturday for our field trip to the beach! How fun!

Both homes had the traditional Moroccan sofas that line the whole room (or more than one room) and I could see it great for inviting numerous friends over for various celebrations.

Tips for future TGCers - The times at the homes (with our host teacher's family and also at her friends' home.) are definite highlights. It's rare to feel a part of a family when visiting another country so I highly recommend taking those opportunities if you are offered them. Even with my desire to go to sleep early, when you're at someone's home it feels some much more relaxing than a regular meal at a restaurant. Bring some extra gifts in case you have that opportunity. I gave a couple of token gifts to them but then went through my bags thoroughly before I left and gave my host teacher everything I could find for her to share with the family that let us join them and some others that needed it too.

Accessibility - Same usual suggestions since the homes will all have individuality in design. You may or may not have steps, etc. The Moroccan furniture style is beautiful and involves large sofas (with Moroccan designed patterns.) The sofas are great for being able to slide over to the corners, etc, by the tables for eating since the rooms are easily converted from living rooms to dining rooms.