So the weekend after my week at École Annexe, we went to Paris for a little day trip. Once again, I'm blown away by this city...as if that's even a surprise. We decided to explore Montmartre a bit. After taking the train into Gare du Nord, we had to get a metro day pass and find our way to that quartier. That part wasn't too difficult, but then we had to walk up these ridiculously steep streets to get to Sacre Coeur, the white basilica that is sort of the unofficial face of Montmartre. Although I've never been to San Francisco, I'd imagine that the streets we were having to walk up were pretty similar. We finally made it up the streets and came out into this clearing that was full of cafés and cute little stores. We were definitely in the right place. Although Montmartre is full of tourists, it's a must-see if you're in Paris. It is so charming and so quintessentially Paris. If you want to have the ideal Parisian experience, this is a good neighborhood to start in. We decided to climb the stairs up to Sacre Coeur. Talk about a work out.
We got to go into Sacre Coeur, which was absolutely incredible. It's amazing how beautiful the architecture is here. It doesn't seem like real life. After, we found a restaurant and had lunch. I had cheese penne, which was a bit strong for my taste. It was good, but the cheeses were all strong, French cheeses. Not a subtle taste, that's for sure. Later on, we were able to go to Notre Dame, Shakespeare and co, and La Sorbonne. It was a great re-introduction to Paris. I left with sore feet and a thirst for more. That sounds silly, but Paris has almost been like this great challenge for me. Just when I think I've seen a lot, I realize I've only seen a fraction. It's kind of like a gift that keeps on giving.
Now, I guess it's time to move past Paris and talk about my second week in French schools. I spent my second week at another primary school called École Delpech. This school is much bigger than École Annexe. Where Annexe has 5 classes, Delpech has about 15 classes. It's much bigger in regards to students and faculty. The principal is the only man in a faculty of all woman. I don't think I've drank so much coffee in my life as I did this week. They have several breaks throughout the day, and it's a normal thing to grab a coffee or two during break. I liked it because it gave me time to practice my French and be social with adults.
The kids are so sweet. They were so eager to learn about where I come from, and were so eager to have me as their new friend. They are all incredibly smart. I'd say they were all exceptionally literate and strong in math. I think that's because they start a few years ahead of kids in the US. I had several little girls who wanted nothing more than to hold my hand all week. They would fight over my two hands to the point where they were satisfied holding a finger each. I'll never forget walking down the hall with about six little girls holding onto a finger. Made walking a bit difficult. I have learned that if I were to teach younger kids, I prefer 1st and 2nd graders. They are still so sweet and eager to learn, and they aren't quite as jaded as some of the older students. Don't get me wrong, I love the older students too, but it's amazing how quick some of these kids learn to have an attitude. :) Here are some pics:
I still have so much more to update on, but at least I'm sort of catching up. Miss you all!
Definitely learning more than I'm teaching...
Love from France,
Taylor
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