The ambiance heats up at the Village Chief’s as Mr.

Lopez, the Village School teacher is called

to explain himself to the villagers who are not pleased with his teaching methods.

“in his class,” says an older man, “there are children who are just starting and there are also ones
who failed the entrance exam last year. I’ve also seen students who were enrolled three years
ago!” how can Mr. Lopez teach all these students?”

“ we want a school not a Koranic school! I said a school!” interrupted another villager. “ Each
grade should have its own teacher. You’ve got to stop this Mr. Lopez. We’re going to send a
delegation to the inspector to ask for another teacher!”

“The other day,” said a woman, “ on the way to the well, I was surprised by the silence I heard in
Mr. Lopez’ classroom. When I came close to the window, I saw that students were cheating.
They were writing each other and speaking in soft voices while he went from group to group
looking as if he was searching for something. I even saw the John’s son helping the little Gwen
hold his pencil! I’m going to pull my child out if things don’t change!”

The Village Chief, who was visibly disturbed, asked for silence: “Mr. Lopez has been in the
village for only two months. You have seen that he practically lives at the school and that he
always takes care of our children. He hardly has salary. The students say he never gets sick. Let’s
listen to him! Don’t worry Mr. Lopez, this isn’t a court. The village just wants to understand.
We’re listening to you, and don’t let anyone interrupt.

What do you think are the problem of the villager?

If you are the chief of the village, what would you do? Would you fine another teacher?

If you were Mr. Lopez and you will have to speak/talk to the villagers, what would you say?

Suggest a good teaching strategy to Mr. Lopez.