A request, a suggestion, and a few updates

Saluton al ĉiuj!

An update from me and Esperanto@UIUC. First off, a request: a teacher in Arizona has a small class of 8th graders but is looking to start a kindergarten Esperanto class as well. Any suggestions for a course (preferably in book form) that they could use? He has "Teach Yourself Esperanto," but he's looking for something more appropriate for 5-year-olds.

Next, a suggestion to all: take a look at "Pasporto al la Tuta Mondo!" Newly released under Creative Commons--read: free! I get a kick out of the course, and so far with the Mazi videos, people respond really well to videos. They get some laughs in and feel excited to see how much they can understand. "Pasporto" is more modern and better quality. As live-action, I'll admit it's a little corny but that's necessary of any pedagogical tool I think ("Gerda" got so redundant in the early chapters... it got better though). Maybe we could have an online course with it....

In news for the group, we've progressed through the eighth chapter of "Gerda Malaperis" and I'm pleased to say that everyone's grasp of Esperanto is much better. There's a lot of excitement in the group and we're capitalizing on that by acting in full force. We're currently awaiting response from the Student Organization Funds people to see how much they'll help us to get to the LK (which several people have committed to, such that I think we'll have to ask the SOF people again and ask for two rooms). Also, we're holding a week long intensive Esperanto course to teach new people and to fill in any gaps that current learners may have. It seems like it will be really fun. I'll publish the syllabus at Esperanto@UIUC in a bit. It's our spring break now, and I only put up signs Friday morning because I had exams and was not thinking as I should have been. If this goes well, I think we'll have another more-publicised event. I will be advertising in a few of the University newsletters, however. That should help. We're also planning a bake sale soon, and I think I may try to get some recipes in Esperanto, or translate recipes into Esperanto. Can't wait!

In news of my life, I just had a very interesting conversation on a message board for my Japanese class. (CTRL+F "Esperanto", it's a looong conversation). We discuss aspects of culture and language, and I couldn't help but bring Esperanto into the light. Quite a few of them had heard of it, and I think a few more became interested. Once I find an appropriate opportunity, I'll speak in person to some of them about it. None of them have shown up to any meetings yet. If I personally invite them, they may be interested. Perhaps I'll keep in contact with them and talk to them over the summer about it. Exams continue to loom and I doubt people want to take on much more right now.

Once again, thank you E-USA for suggestions and feedback. It's always appreciated and very encouraging.

Ĝis la!

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