Education – Page 14 – Katherine Reilly

August 13, 2024August 13, 2024

Grammar Woes and Laughs: How to Thrive Amidst Linguistic Lunacy

by Katherine Reilly, originally published in ELT NEWS printed magazine

After more than two decades of teaching grammar, I can assuredly attest to the notion that language teaching has become the embodiment of God’s sense of humor. Bold claims to be held, albeit with concrete justification. I cannot begin to comprehend the turmoil and frustration faced by a language learner when interpreting Greek idioms which baffle them beyond explanation. “Slow the much oil” or “You’ll eat wood” are but a few examples to consider. Of course, this works both ways as learners of English would be scratching their heads when hearing the expression “Bite the bullet” or “I’ll spill the beans”. I can only imagine how upset a host would be upon hearing his guest say the latter, fretting for his clean, shiny floor. Admittedly, I have obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and preserving a spotless kitchen floor is a constant painstaking endeavor.

July 29, 2024

Teacher, I Soaked My New Textbook!

by Katherine Reilly – originally published by ELT NEWS

It’s 6.00 am and I find myself twirling in bed; my sheets wrapped around my body tighter than a tortilla. Although I hit the hay early, I feel as though I hadn’t slept a wink. Sluggishly, I get out of bed and commence preparations for the long day ahead. My teacher’s bag is equipped with all the basic necessities for teaching juveniles. No, I’m not referring to markers or books; rather tissues, adhesive bandages, cleansing gels, you know… the works! A bit of makeup, some finishing touches to my hair and off I go!

Upon arrival at the school premises, I take a moment to reflect upon last year’s predicaments before exiting my car. It doesn’t take a prophet to tell me this year will be no different than the ones before. I unlock my door and before I even have the chance to exit, I am greeted by familiar faces that have physically matured over the summer months. Some are most welcome as they wholeheartedly embrace me. Others strike a sense of dread for what is to come. The pranksters and smart-alecks, or the socially obnoxious and loud.

“Good morning, Ms. Katherine!” yelled one of my students directly into my ear drum.

“Good morning, Johnathon. I haven’t had coffee yet,” I reply, carrying a year’s worth of textbooks in my arms.

“You’ll need it!” shouted my student as he and his classmates trampled away giggling.

July 4, 2024

September Blues and Classroom Hues

by Katherine Reilly

Could someone please enlighten me on the matter of mandatory school attendance? Don’t get me wrong, I am clearly aware of the importance of education and identify as an avid supporter. Nonetheless, the fact that we dread the prospect of returning to our classrooms is, without a doubt, a surging feeling we have all experienced at least once in our careers. Is it our apprehension of the individuals who must surround us for the foreseeable future? The demands of our duties which, to be honest, consume a great portion of our daily routine? Bullying, demeaning behaviors, obnoxious colleagues and students, infinite papers to correct with little to no recognition of our endeavors, jeopardizing our own sanity and peace of mind…