----- Original Message -----
Sent: Thursday, November 27, 2003 12:47
AM
Subject: [norse_course] Jed re teaching
elements of Old Norse in adult community education
Dear All
Since September I've been attending a course on
teaching adults in the community. After weeks of studying theory and the evil
machinations of beaurocracy, we are now getting down to the nitty gritty of
producing lessons. My original intention was to cover local history but I
thought I would have a go at Old English, so I gave a short lesson on it.
I was just testing the water because I thought the people in general aren't
interested in that kind of thing. What joy!. The response was very
enthusiastic. For me! At my time of life! Our tutor actually said that if she
had been taught Chaucer in the manner in which I presented Old English, she
would have carried on with Middle English in later life. Gosh, what flattery -
it's turned my head!
So I thought, why not have a go at Old Norse
as well.? Why not? Our area was settled by Norwegians in the tenth
century and our dialect still retains a lot of Scandinavian
terms. My intention is to integrate Old English and Old Norse
into a study of place-names and of local and national history. I might only be
two or three steps ahead of the class, but at least I can show them
how Old Norse has influenced our language and introduce them to some
of its wonderful history.
I already have quite a few ideas buzzing
about in my head, but if anyone has experience in adult education or teaching
Old Norse or Old English (language and history) and can offer advice or other
assistance, I'd be very grateful.
Yours still in a state of euphoria,
Jed
A
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Homepage: http://www.hi.is/~haukurth/norse/
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