This blog post is going to seem a little random as it's inspired by some random pictures that I thought were worth sharing.
The first is a map of Mozambique, showing the location of my site, Moamba. Moamba is located only 40km from the South African border and 51km from Maputo. Although we are closer to Komatipoort than Maputo, since it is part of South Africa, we still have to get pre-approved permission to travel there. Also notice, Moamba is nestled right next to the infamous Kuger Park. Someone told me that because poachers cut the nets of the park, animals sometimes wander near my site.
The second picture is of my yard during laundry day. This was a big "load" so I needed all three lines to hang my clothes.
This is a picture of me playing crab tag with some kids during reading activities. We are still holding reading activities every week with primary school kids.
 |
| Photo credit: Amy Mallozzi |
These next pictures are my 10th grade students working with some molecule models. My former coworkers at the Wisconsin State Laboratory of Hygiene sent me a package FULL of science teaching materials. One of my biggest challenges in teaching chemistry last year was trying to teach the concept of atoms and molecules without any materials. This year, I have periodic tables, pictures of atoms and molecule model kits.
We are learning simple alkanes, alkenes and alkynes and as an exercise, I made six models of various molecules. The kids had to go around to each molecule and do the following: draw the molecule, write the chemical formula, and name the molecule. The really liked the activity because it broke up the monotony of teaching with chalk and chalkboard. I think they also liked it because they really understood how molecules are organized and the difference between the various hydrocarbons.
Only three months left at site!! I will try to update as often as I have interesting things to share!
