On Friday, I arrived at school in full business attire - black pants, jacket, collared shirt. It felt weird to be in such stuffy garb. As someone who usually where's jeans, a sweater, and scarf, I felt a bit awkward in my old work clothes. One of my fourth graders commented, "Teacher! You change style?" I explained, "No. KBS."
The Korean Broadcasting Service arrived at school around 10:30 for my brush with fame. Their goal was to shoot a commercial to promote my employer and the goals of English education in our province. I was to be one of the stars...
I've been in front of the camera before, but this was just bizarre. My co-teacher setup a fake class that we would run together. Students shuffled in and the director called for more students to fill the empty seats. Our strange mix of 2nd and 3rd graders (8th and 9th graders US) were just as confused as I was. My co and I awkwardly recited an old text the students learned last semester, and then I was told to go around the room and assist students with their memorization (which they already knew). I did my usual work, as well as quite a few staged teaching situations. The supervisor from the head office kept directing me using words like "fun" and "laughing" ...Have you seen the terror in my students' eyes?
Keep in mind: Between these interjections of English, I was primarily directed in Korean. I was just trying to keep up with people pulling me this way and that. I was constantly told to crouch down and talk with students (Yes, I'm a tall foreigner) or get closer (I don't know if that's because of the personal space cultural difference or the way the producers were shooting). My students were horrified and embarrassed the whole time.
My last required scene was supposed to be a casual conversation with my students (remember, 'fun' and 'laughing'?). But any native teacher can tell you that "casual conversation" at school is usually limited to 'how are you?' 'how's the weather?' 'what did you do last weekend?' 'He crazy.' Beyond these points, my students seek out Google translate, phone pictures, or you tube music videos...and many throw in the towel and give up. I think it's a mixture of shyness, frustration, and minimal motivation. I really appreciate the one's who try.
So, this casual conversation was going to be a challenge. My students were REALLY REALLY nervous. I tried to engage them in the weather and foods, but apparently it wasn't working. After several shots and line-up changes the director called it quits. Instead, he wanted us to walk slowly down the hall as a group chatting. The supervisor said the students could speak Korean/English mix so that it just looks like we are interacting...After walking too fast, and then looking too stiff, the director ended the shoot with two boys embracing and me holding a girls hand.
Oh Korea...
Hopefully, the ad turns out. If I get a copy, I'll share it on the video page...in all it's awkward glory.
No autographs, please,
-Bets
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