Job Discussion Forums

[eihpos]

Hi,

I've just been given a job teaching a fairly small group of beginner and elementary Saudi women in my own country. I start tomorrow. Initially, I was pleased, but I am getting nervous now as I was told they could be pretty challenging! Does anyone have any ideas for some ice- breakers that might suit? I've never taught this kind of group before so any help would be great.

I would really appreciate it!

[freesoul]

� getting to know you� activity always works. And since they are a female Saudi group, this means that they come from different cities. So, have them not only introduce themselves and but also talk briefly about their city or region. This will also help you learn something about their culture. Moreover, they would love to know that you are interested in learning more about Jeddah, Makka, Madina, Riyad, Qassim, Dammam, etc. This will tremendously help in establishing rapport.

[Cleopatra]

Why are you nervous? On their good days (!) Saudi students can be the most charming and fascinating students you will ever meet. On their bad days... well, let's not get into that! Anyway, I would say that the type of Saudis who study abroad - presumably wives or daughters of men who are working or studying abroad - would be very pleasant students.

freesoul is right - start by asking about their home towns. Saudis tend to be very impressed by anyone who shows an interest in their country. If they have the linguistic ability (they may not) you could also ask them about such things as marriage traditions etc. You may find out that you end up learnign much more than they do!

[Mia Xanthi]

I had the same problem when I first started teaching Saudi women. All I could think was "what on earth do I have in common with these girls?" Turned out the answer was easy: television shows. They all know Oprah and Dr. Phil. They all know the commercials on Dubai One. Ask them what certain Arabic commercials actually say. They'll laugh their heads off if you try to memorize the Arabic phrase and say it to them. I did that for one little toothpaste commercial with a jingle in Arabic about brushing your teeth. They were still laughing and teasing me about it two years later!

Don't worry...just treat them like normal girls and enjoy developing a rapport with them. They're so willing to connect and so ready to laugh. They were the best part of KSA.