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Katie Brooks
Major/s:
English Literature
Spanish Language
Hometown:
Lecanto, Florida
Expected Graduation:
May 2009
Service:
I translated and presented JA lessons in Spanish for a bilingual class at Palmetto Elementary as part of a Service Learning course: Advanced Spanish Conversation.
Memorable Moment:
On the first day of class, I told the kids that my goal was to learn Spanish so I could work in a Spanish-speaking country. This made them especially proud of their Hispanic backgrounds; they eagerly blurted: "I can speak Spanish!" and took turns telling me which country they were from. I loved seeing them so proud of their heritage!
When I didn't know how to say something in Spanish, the kids jumped in to teach me! Many of them struggle to speak English in school, so watching me practice my Spanish made them feel better about their own language-learning. We made an agreement that I would teach fun JA activities and they would help me with my Spanish.
Lessons Learned:
I learned oral communication skills in Spanish. I also became familiar with the bilingual education system in Orlando.
Horizon Broadened:
It gave me a sense of the large Hispanic community in Orlando and some of the difficulties the children and their parents face. I learned how my Spanish education at UCF is directly applicable to the community I live in -- I find that very motivating.
Education Value:
My Spanish-speaking skills vastly improved! I felt more comfortable practicing my Spanish with children because we were all learning together. Also, if you make a mistake with your Spanish in front of the kids, they often think you're making a joke and will laugh with you! It is a no-stress way to practice a second language.
Service to Career:
Teaching in a foreign language gave me the experience I need to use my Spanish skills in a professional setting. I hope to continue teaching JA to bilingual classes each semester so I can practice speaking to the kids, teachers, and parents in Spanish. This will prepare me for life and work in Spanish-speaking countries abroad.
