I have been in kokshetau, Kazakhstan for the better part of eight months now.  This continues to be an enlightening experience both as an educator and as a person.

As an educator, and an American,it it amusing, and frustrating to teach English at times.  I find myself wondering if my colleagues and I actually speak the same language ( and they are native English speakers as well!).  More often than not I will come across words and phrases that  I am dumbfounded by.  I was under the impression my language difficulties would be with the local language! Lol!! I have learned a new vocabulary, a new curriculum,  a new grading system, a new scheduling system, a little Russian, even less Kazakh, and my year isn't even over!

The curriculum continues to morph as we move along, but basically follows a version of Cambridge CAE English curriculum.  I have worked on IELTS testing, and found the structure quite interesting.
I continue to work on the assessment strategies of the four strands of the test, and find it fascinating and quite wonderful to have a speaking and listening section, as well as writing and reading.  Developing practice tests, and lessons for speaking and listening in class has been both challenging and exciting.  I was thrilled to see the common core develop these two strands as well, if I'm not mistaken.

Culturally, I have become friends with quite a few locals, and happily visit and break bread with them often.  I continue to learn a great deal about the people of this unique and marvelous country.