Program Description
China is a fascinating country rich in culture and contrasts. With one of the fastest growing economies in the world, China is rapidly becoming a major player in global affairs. The last fifteen years of economic reforms and international contact have produced sweeping changes for Chinese society. As China begins to face these challenges, the need for quality, modern education has become more pressing. To access opportunities in an increasingly international economy and society, China’s younger generation will need English language skills and the ability to communicate effectively with people from other cultures.
The WorldTeach Summer Program provides a rare opportunity for middle school students in Hunan Province to learn English from a native English speaker (“middle schools” or zhong xue are China’s secondary schools; the students are aged 11-18). The China Summer Program brings volunteer teachers and students together for cultural exchange, language learning, and the chance to gain a broader perspective on each other.
As a volunteer teacher, you will offer students a needed skill—English fluency—while learning about Chinese language and culture. You will gain insight into China’s history, traditions, and the changes shaping modern society today. And you will have a lot of fun!
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Volunteer Role
Your service in China will begin with a week of orientation. Orientation includes discussions on
TEFL teaching methods, teaching practice, Chinese language lessons, health and safety issues, and an introduction to Chinese culture. After orientation you will teach oral English to middle school students in school-based summer English camps. In addition to teaching groups of students and encouraging them to use English, you will have opportunities to learn and practice Chinese (Mandarin) and to participate in cultural activities with your students. You can learn Chinese arts such as tai chi, calligraphy and karaoke, and share your interests and talents in sports, music, drama, or arts. During the course of the program you may teach, alongside other volunteers in the program, at two summer camps at different schools in different cities. Each summer camp will last about three weeks. Between each summer camp there is usually a short break for sightseeing or a conference to share teaching ideas with your fellow volunteers.
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Placements, Housing, Food
Summer volunteers will most likely begin the program with orientation in Changsha, the capital city of Hunan Province. During orientation, volunteers will live in a dormitory or a guest house on a school campus. After orientation, volunteers will be placed at language camps in middle schools throughout Hunan Province. When teaching at the camps, volunteers will ideally live with host families. If not, they will live in a dormitory or guest house on the school campus. Meals will be provided by the school or host families. On some days volunteers may eat in small groups at local
restaurants.
Chinese food is rich in variety. The food in Hunan has a southern flavor with many spicy dishes. Rice is the staple in Hunan although noodles are also eaten. Meats, fish, eggs, tofu, and vegetables are cooked in myriad of ways, and there is plentiful fresh fruit. An adventurous palate is key to enjoying all the foods and flavors.
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Length of Program
Two months, from mid-June to mid-August (depending on availability of flights).
Cost of Program
$3,990. This includes pre-departure information and preparation, round-trip international airfare from a U.S. departure city, one week in-country orientation, health insurance, in-country transportation, meals and housing during orientation and teaching service, and 24-hour field support.
Note: WorldTeach summer programs may qualify for international internship and travel funds awarded by colleges and universities. Students are encouraged to check with their schools for eligibility.
Requirements
WorldTeach summer programs are open to qualified individuals over the age of 18 (including undergraduates) who are looking for a meaningful, short-term volunteer teaching experience. Volunteers must be native English speakers for this particular program. Prior teaching experience is helpful but not required. Successful volunteers will be flexible, mature, creative, and have a genuine interest in teaching in China. Due to the intense heat and long hours of teaching expected from the host schools, volunteers over the age of 40 are not encouraged to apply.
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