Notice
Aricca
Hello, GG1s.
I write to introduce myself and to tell you a little bit about our classes for next week in Ariccia, because I need you to do a little bit of preparation for each class. (No reading, no over-thinking, but just a little bit of preparation.) This 'mini-preparation' you should do for most of our classes, and I will explain as we 'go along'.
First of all, I hope that you have all done well on your midterm exams and I look forward to meeting you next week - refreshed, relaxed and ready for some new challenges. Please keep in mind that my classes are highly interactive and active participation is essential. And, hopefully, they are highly enjoyable, too.
In our first class, in the morning of the 4th November, you will meet both Prof. Ibrahim and me, and together we will explain the aims of the two separate modules that make up the 'Applied English' course. We will talk you through the expectations and approaches to enable you to not only to be successful in the course, but to enjoy it and make the best of it. It is an intense two weeks!
For our second class, with me, in the afternoon of Monday the 4th, please think of three ’fun facts‘ about yourself or your family - that no one else in the class knows. These points should be about you, or someone in your family, and that are surprising, interesting - and true! Please keep your ideas, and these points, a secret from the others in your group. And please make them ‘fun facts’ that you do not mind sharing with me and with the class. So, think about these in advance and this is your first preparation.
For our third class together, on Tuesday morning, please think of some interesting words, phrases, or sayings - in your native language (or second language, or a dialect) that you can introduce to a small group. You can even teach us how to count. And, for you Italians, yes, you can show... gestures!
For our fourth class together, which is on Tuesday afternoon, wear something that prompts you to do a short talk or presentation or tell a story. In other words, wear something to talk about. (For the preparation, just write down a few notes about what you have chosen to show and how you want to do it - there are many ways.) Please aim to talk for about three minutes. So, it could be a favourite piece of clothing or jewellery or a tattoo or a ‘lucky charm’, and please remember to pack it and take it to Ariccia, unless you wear it all the time.
That will get us started.
Also, I see that the weather forecast for next week is good, but do note that the Palazzo Chigi can be a bit cold if it is windy, so do also pack some warm layers, as the wind can whistle up into the Main Hall from the Courtyard. Hopefully not, but do plan ahead just in case.
And also note that, regarding food, Ariccia and the area is known for its Porchetta (roasted pork) which is at the top of most menus. So, if you follow a particular diet, you might need to look a bit further down the menu and then you will find something suitable. No need to go hungry, just ask.
And, please, do sign up for your group on DIDA where I will post messages and material.
Have a good weekend and I look forward to meeting you in class on Monday morning.
Best regards, Douglas Brown