Xingxing Song (宋星星)

It was my honor to have the chance to attend UVA startalk program. I feel I was very lucky to have many opportunities to work with master teachers, teacher folks and have Dr.Tseng pointing out my teaching errors. I really enjoy every day at UVA.

After three weeks’ intensive studying, I felt like this program really help me gain confidence and enhance my expertise in teaching Chinese as a foreign language. It was very important for novice Chinese language teacher like me. Before attending this program, I had not ever worked with high school students. So I was nervous and not confident that I was able to teach this level students. I still remembered that when I prepared the first lesson plan I did not even know how many news vocabs and new structures that I should teach for one hour class. A series of great observation opportunities, rehearsal practice and teaching practices helped me answer my questions very well. I did not just gain practicum opportunities, what is more, these practicum was structured and sequenced supervised, in which helped teachers integrate a balance o theories and practice into the curriculum. Upon the completion of the 3-credit graduate course, I truly believe that I keep abreast of new developments in second language acquisition theories and practice in general and Chinese language acquisition and pedagogy in particular. I am able to create standard-based curricula, deliver effective instruction, and implement authentic performance-based assessment and instructional technology in a student-centered, highly communicative and interactive environment conducive to productive learning.

Although this program was very intense and demanding, it was not definitely overwhelming for me. I kind of enjoyed it. It was not hard to finish work load. So I still have some extra time to make friends, enjoy good food and go shopping, etc. UVA has one of most beautiful campuses in the USA。 Also the city Charlottesville is framed for its scenic spots. Humpback Ridge and Monticello are two magnets for me. All there is beautiful. Everything there is charming to the eye. I will never forget Dr.Tseng, master teachers, teacher folks and all my happy memories at UVA. I will bring all these good memories back and treasure all the support and friendship that I have had.