class

We had a problem solving math class yesterday. Teacher handed out little logic games. I walked around, as usual. As I passed by Rebecca and Jacqueline, they were both looking puzzled. The girls read me the problem: Ellie bought a fish and was told that it needed to be put in 1 litre of water. She only had a 7 and a 4 litre container. Could you help her get the 1l?

They explained their ideas, I gave some clues and after a while of trying (and I'm sure, feeling they'd been tricked with an impossible one to resolve), Jackeline looks at me, dead serious, and says: "the fish is gonna die". It caught me so off guard... I started laughing and found it so hard to stop. The girls looked at me with their sweet faces, half smiles, probably even more puzzled... I would've given all my pennies to know what they were thinking. The whole moment was precious.

The other funny comment happened after having one of our reading sessions of The Famous Five. I was sitting by Emma, when she looked at me and said: "The Famous Five are wonderful books, aren't they?... But they are so expensive" I was curious so I asked, "how much are they?". Emma: "SEVEN euro!" I nodded, loving her grown-up tone, then suggested, in that same kind of seriousness, she saved 1€ a week and she might have enough to buy the next one by the time she's finished hers. She nodded too. Will she do it?

Sophie is another of my "favourites". She has a heart of gold and an inquisitive mind. Loves to learn and asks questions that just show how much she's thinking about what you say. She motivates me to do better and makes teaching rewarding and exciting when I see her so aware, sitting straight, eyes wide open as she listens/discovers.

Then there's proper class Clodagh. An independent, resolute soul and such an active mind! Short, dark hair, red framed glasses, she's the fun-nerdy girl in the class. Always with her dictionary, ready to answer as fast as possible -and it will be correct.

I have to mention Roisin K and Nicole. Roisin was my "best friend" the first weeks here. She came up to me, took me by the hand and made sure Carolina was involved, had a partner and learned the dances, new songs, etc. Always smiles and friendly looks, even hugs and positive comments after a class she liked (usually PE). Friendly, innocent and happy about life. Nicole is the athlete, loves running and Gaelic football, focused worker and simply good.

Of course there are rockier moments/classes, but really, it is a very neat group. I can't complain at all about my 4th class :) If I was their age I'd want to be best friends with these girls.