All of the Mongolian teachers we have met are so creative.  For example yesterday, in less than 40 minutes, the students had completed 3 tasks – a short didactic review of the democratic concepts, an application of the democratic concepts in small groups, and then a role playing simulation of the concepts.  It was impressive how quickly they transitioned from one task to the next.  When I taught a lesson on Free and Fair Elections, I asked open-ended and critical thinking questions – they had excellent insightful answers. Indeed, most were raising their hands and participating, and I couldn’t call upon all of them who wanted to share a response because I was running out of time. I was so impressed with these students.  My colleague from Miami school district added to the discussion by stating that by one vote George W. Bush won the Election of 2000 with 271 electoral votes.  This led us into a quick 10 minute lesson on how the president is elected – the poplar vote, winner take all electoral system in most states, and the electoral college.  As my students and adults know this a complicated concept.  Yet the Mongolian kids who have been living under a democratic state for only 22 years got it!   They understand and value democracy.  They understand that elections and participation in government matters.

6:25 pm – gotta go to dinner – put on the boots, jacket, etc.    

Thanks for reading

Please see the Photo Gallery!  There are a few pictures from the last two days.   Sunday, 3/18 we visited a Gandantegchenling Monastery and Buddhist Temple Complex, the Zanabazar Museum of Fine Arts (excellent information on Mongolian history), and viewed important sites within the UB on a student-led democracy tour. We ended the full day with a cultural musical show.  Monday, 3/19 we visited a secondary school (senior high school students) Ulanbataar #33.  More details about photos to follow later. Honestly I am too tired and jet-lagged to write tonight!  Sorry…

Having a wonderful time!   Tomorrow we visit another school.

Today the Mongolian students (high school seniors) we met were so insightful, eager, and willing to participate during the US Teacher lessons.  We observed a Mongolian teacher lesson first.  In a total of only 40 minutes they reviewed the 12 Civic Voices democratic concepts, applied their knowledge in groups of the concepts, and then role-played a few concepts.  I was so impressed with their fluid transitions from one activity to another. They were incredibly smart, gracious, and so sweet.  I gave them seashells and Valentine candy!  They were so excited to receive these small gifts.  Also I noticed like in the US, the style for the girls is to wear are Ugg boots.  I told them how my  students wear Uggs (they say U G G), and they giggled.  I took pictures of their shoes!

This is random, but I think my current and former students will get a kick out of this one.  I am traveling to Mongolia  on March 16.  This is also James Madison’s birthday!  The purpose of the trip is civics education…maybe Jimmy is looking out for me?