ESOL Term 3 Reflection

 Term 3 Reflection

This term in Esol we worked on language features, language skills, punctuations. This term we've been doing some tests to test our listening, writing, and reading skills. One of our lessons that I really enjoyed was watching the film "Cool Running" this film is about a Jamaican sprinter who gets disqualified from the Olympics Games, he enlists the help of a dishonored coach to start the first Jamaican Bobsled Team. "Cool Runnings" explores themes of perserverance against great odds, cheating, second chances, and developing self-esteem. I really enjoyed watching this film and hope that we do more film studies in class. One of the tasks I was proud of was my Presentation I did on places to visit and do In New Zealand, I think I did really well with speaking and putting in effort in my presentation. What I could do differently next time is getting my work done on time and using my time in class given to complete tasks.

Teuila Festival - ESOL

 Teuila Festival

Since it was established in 1991, Samoa's Teuila Festival has grown to become one of Samoa's most celebrated annual events and one of the South Pacific's biggest cultural festivals. The festival is named after the bright red teuila flower, the national flower of Samoa and is frequently seen around the islands. This year's festival will be running from 01 to 07 September. Visitors will experience Samoan dance, arts, gastronomy and even traditional tattooing. Every year thousands pour into the capital to witness the extravaganza that is the Opening Ceremony, held this year on 01 September. The opening is a proud display of Samoan culture with a floral parade, the Siva Afi fire knife dancers and native music setting the scene for a further five days of festival fun. Another spectacular display is the Chief's Fiafia show, where iconic dances and entertainment represents the cultural heritage of different South Pacific Islands. The festival has much in store for those who like to dabble in the creative side of things, with arts and crafts fairs providing the opportunity to partake in traditional weaving lessons, wood carving and cocktail competitions, which take place every day at the Samoa Cultural Village. Visitors can also see the long-established art of tattooing the Samoan way, a skill that has been passed down from generation to generation to create distinctive warrior - like designs. Food lovers will find their calling among the many food stalls serving up Samoa's local specialities and a traditional Umu demonstration on the Wednesday will see food from an underground oven to feed the crowds. There are many other activities and events taking place throughout the week including the Police Band Flag Raising Parade, the Best of Samoa show, Miss Samoa Pageant and the Teuila Movie in the Plaza. As the festival draws to a close, visitors are encouraged to come to the official prize giving ceremony to honour all those who have participated over the week.

Respect - ESOL 10

 Respect

The Psychology of respect

Respect is an important component of personal self-identity and interpersonal relationships. It tends to be a self-reinforcing behaviour. Treating someone with respect means:

- showing regard for their abilities and worth

- valuing their feelings and their views, even if you don't necessarily agree with them

- accepting them on an equal basis and giving them the same consideration you would expect for yourself.

Respect begins with oneself

Each of us has our particular way of coping with the world. Some of us are assertive - we take charge of situations, we make decisions, we exude self-confidence. We expect to be listened to and respected, and we generally are. In contrast, some of us can lack self-confidence and under-value ourselves. This can negatively impact our ability to form relationships and engage effectively with others. We can struggle to share and reflect on our emotions, we find it difficult to adapt to change, and feel ill-equipped to tackle our challenges.

Simple strategies that can reinforce our sense of self, give us the courage to find our voices and earn us the respect of those around us, include the following:

- Use body language- Act as though you are confident e.g. a positive posture

- Speak positively and project confidence. Don't be boastful, but don't diminish yourself with your words.

- As far as possible, surround yourself with people who are positive and supportive of your best interests.

Why is respect important?

Receiving respect from others is important because it helps us to feel safe and to express ourselves. Being respected by important people in our lives growing up teaches us how to be respectful towards others. Respect means that you accept somebody for who they are, even when they're different from you or you don't agree with them. Respect in your relationships builds feelings of trust, safety, and wellbeing. Respect doesn't have to come naturally - it is something you learn.