Ulpan (Hebrew classes) started on Sunday. So far, it's been great. I feel that even in three days I've learned a ton because it's five hours a day and the teachers really drill the class on vocab. A lot of how we've been taught is what I would imagine the Socratic Method is. The teacher ("Moreh") asks us lots of questions using vocab--the class is very interactive and one cannot avoid talking. I'm really enjoying learning Hebrew, as are most of the kids in the program. I had forgotten what homework was like for language classes--busy work and fill-in-the-blanks. I catch myself continuously saying words in French and too often use French in the market ("Shuk"), class, and taxis. It's clear that I learned a lot of French over the years. I'm slowly starting to think that picking it up again would be a good idea.
The kids on the trip remain lots of fun and I definitely haven't been let down. My ulpan class has a great roster (worthy of Hall of Fame status as compared to classes I've had in the past). Yesterday I went to the Shuk HaCarmel (pictures to posted soon so check back). It is a great outdoor market that is exactly what you might imagine. When people think of the Middle East, this market is one of the first mental images that pops up. I bargained like a champ in an attempt to get some great red peppers, but the seller wouldn't budge. He won and I paid full price because time was running out. There was a big potluck dinner last night so I had to get back and cut up my veggies. The hummus was amazing: creamy and smooth.
My server just brought over the toothpick jar, so that means I've gotta go. I'm going to post photos later on, so check back to see what the dorm looks like, etc.
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