Kelly CP-8

On Wednesday I met with Rose at CIES during lunch hour. I noticed that Ted and Butsawan were meeting for the same purpose, so I asked if we could join them. I find that being in a group helps facilitate more conversational, rather than tutor-esque chains of dialogue.

I asked Ted about the bike shopping which led us to explain the different kinds of bikes available. (road, hybrid, mountain). This led to a discussion on bike and bike tire theft in and around campus. Apparently we all know someone that has been affected! 

Ted mentioned some things they were working on in tutor sessions which led us to talk about regional accents. I eagerly demonstrated such accents as Florida vs. Alabama, Boston, New York, Australian, and Cockney British. On American English, Rose's Uncle often says, "Americans need to learn English!" Just like we get stumped with grammar questions from our students, those that have had to learn proper English as a second language sometimes get frustrated at how poor our English can be. 

Somehow the subject of dancing came up. Clubs were mentioned, (umptcha umptcha umptcha) and I subtly tried to dissuade Rose's interest in such a place. Because she has a strict family she would probably not be able to go to clubs, but I would hate to see her horrified face in that environment. She is a very nice young lady after all. On dance, the girls were curious as to what exactly was a culturally sanctioned form of American dance. Ted suggested that perhaps swing dance or ballroom dancing could fall into these categories. I mentioned perhaps ballet. The latter two, however, have roots in European culture. Rose and Butsawan found it strange that was not an immediately recognizable form of American cultural dance. In both Vietnam and Thailand (as well as many other countries) there is a traditional form of dance that is celebrated, known, and taught in their culture. I am somewhat familiar with Thai dance and gave my best impression. The ever giggling Butsawan and Rose approved. 

Thanks Ted for letting us join you! 

Traditional Thai Dance