John Gray Highwelcomes a Cayman Scholar
Teacher AmberBothwell, a former Cayman Scholar.
Amber Bothwell who recently graduated asan English teacher is putting her love of reading to work in herJohn Gray classroom.
Ms Bothwell, who has a master's degree in children's literature,teaches English language, English literature, and reading to years10 and 11 students at the government high school.
She says an unexpected benefit of her backgroundis the opportunity to introduce students to basic literary theory.The master's programme also taught her the use of various mediato teach literature and reading, something she says has been extremelysuccessful with her students.
"I use TV, the newspaper and the computerso that children are doing more than just reading. With televisionwe look at some of themes that are being presented. In additionthey respond well to newspapers, which provide them with an opportunityto learn about current affairs; the new fishing laws were of particularinterest to some children. They also love to use the computers,but where they do have problems sometimes is focusing on producinga written piece of work," she explains.
While completing her postgraduate certificateof education course (PGCE) in England she noticed that educatorsthere faced similar challenges.
"Schools in the U.K. have many of thesame problems that we do. There are so many distractions competingfor students' attention that teachers have to work very hard tokeep them interested. Of course it is also rewarding when studentssubmit quality work that shows that they have understood materialand are working hard," she adds.
As a first year teacher, she works withall ability levels in years 10 and 11, as well as observing andteam-teaching year 12 exam classes. Her duties routinely bringher in contact with a number of students who speak English asa second language. In all cases she says, fellow staff have beenextremely supportive of her efforts.
Ms Bothwell received the Cayman Scholaraward in 1996, in recognition of her academic achievements. Shehas a bachelor's degree in English and linguistics from the Universityof Kent, a master's degree from the University of Reading andher PGCE from the University of Cambridge.
Noting that it has been three years sincea Caymanian graduate returned to teach at the secondary level,John Gray Principal Debra McLaughlin, adds: "She is a giftedteacher with a strong interest in other area of school-life. Hermany contributions include helping with the 2001 Christmas production.I am pleased with her performance in all aspects of the job."