news - sumy window on america center

Welcome to Window on America Center!

2012-02-17T04:41:00.000-08:00

On February 15 we presented resources of Window on America center for students of the Machine Building College.
The students were informed about books, collection of movies on DVD, program Rosetta Stone. Also were shown website and literary blog of the center.
Besides students received information about clubs and courses which work in our department.
Of particular interest was the information about exchange educational programs in the Universities of the USA.
At the end of the presentation the students had the opportunity to learn about and work with the new gadgets such as iPads and Kindle.
The meeting took place in a warm and friendly atmosphere.

Teaching Excellence and Achievement Program (TEA) | IREX

2012-02-09T05:40:00.000-08:00

Discussion

2012-02-07T05:16:00.000-08:00

Welcome to English-Speaking Club. Last month we had a variety of topics discussed: 17.01 Idioms, 24.01 Playing “Mafia”, 31.01 Discussion.
At our meeting we had discussions in groups and expressed our points of view on some interesting topics:
- how I imagine my life in 20 years;
- if I had a chance what religion I’d like to study;
- if I were an animal what animal I’d like to be;
- if I won one million $ what I would do.

Conversation Circle

2012-02-03T03:21:00.001-08:00

In January there were two meetings of the Conversation Circle. The topic of the first meeting held on 11 of January was “Old New Year”. People discussed Ukrainian traditions related with its celebration. Members of the circle also played the “Bean” game.
The second meeting was devoted to the life of Martin Luther King the fighter for the rights of black residents of the United States. The meeting participants discussed in details the ideas and actions of Martin Luther King. They also expressed their views as to his life and the influence of his legacy on the government and citizens of the USA.

Kindle and iPad in the library

2012-01-18T06:18:00.000-08:00

On 18 of January our center gave a presentation on “Kindle and iPad in the library” for librarians from Sumy region. Two of the best-selling readers in today’s market Amazon’s Kindle and Apple’s iPad are available thanks to a contribution from the American Embassy in Kiev. While both are ground breaking and very cool technology, they both have their own pros and cons for being used as a reading device. Every person has different reading habits, and each device can be used in different ways to fit into those habits. We demonstrated how to use Kindle and iPad, how to install new application, how to search the library catalog, how to create bookmarks, notes, and highlights, and view the annotations you created on your Kindle.

Christmas Party

2012-01-09T04:30:00.000-08:00

Welcome to English-Speaking Club. Last month we had a variety of topics discussed: 6.12 Soul mates.
13.12 American Music.
20.12 Christmas and New Year.

Winter is a wonderful time of holidays and presents. Everybody is in anticipation of marvelous celebration time. On that day waiting for New Year Eve and Christmas to come we shared joy with our volunteer Arden and were lucky to watch Christmas American movie and to have some cookies and sweets.

Conversation Circle

2012-01-06T00:32:00.000-08:00

In December 7th and 14th were only two meetings of the Conversation Circle. The topic of the first one was “Hobbies”. People told about their hobbies, why they chose them and how they help them in everyday life. It is very interesting how many different hobbies have people. Some of them doing sports, some like to read, to cook or study foreign languages. Many people like visiting Cinemas and Theatres, some like to sing or dance and even knit. So it is makes no difference what kind of hobbies have people the point is they make them happier. During the second meeting people played special board games for English learners.

Christmas and New Year are Coming

2011-12-23T01:22:00.000-08:00

On December 22, the kids of the orphanage took part in Christmas party.
They got a lot of information about Christmas and New Year around the world and knew many interesting facts about these holidays in the USA. Games and a lot of competitions were organized and participants of the event took part in different contests with sweet prizes. They declared New Year poems, sang songs and played different games.
We look forward to seeing them at the next time in our WOA center.

Seminar for English Teachers

2011-12-20T03:33:00.000-08:00

On 20 of December Window on America center hosted an event for the teachers of English. Our guests learned about our resources and services and especially about events that are organized in our center for English learners. We also acquainted our guests with iPads and Kindle, with the books collection, devoted to the methods of teaching English as a Second Language and presented the newest Internet-resources available to the teachers.
Our guests expressed great interest in learning about Window on America program, our resources and of course Window on America Center events.

Drawing Competition.

2011-12-07T00:31:00.000-08:00

Welcome to English-Speaking Club. Last month we had a variety of topics discussed: 1.11 Birthday Party, 8.11 How do you feel, 15.11 Idioms and Set Expressions, 22.11 Thanksgiving Day, 29.11 Drawing Competition.
Are you found of drawing? Have you got imagination? You can come and show your drawing skills. Our participants worked in pairs and the task was to copy the picture but….without seeing it! One of the partners was given the picture and he gave instructions to the other partner, so that he could draw the picture without looking at it. In the end we presented our pieces of art and results were amusing!

Conversation Circle

2011-12-05T05:10:00.000-08:00

Window on American Center hosted this month meetings of Conversation Circle for our patrons. In November the sessions devoted to various topics “Halloween”, “Developing countries”, “Creation of a magazine”, “AIDS”, “Thanksgiving Day”, were conducted by Jennifer Alton, US Peace Corps TEFL Volunteer. Discussions were very lively, useful and insightful. Our patrons asked many questions, shared their views, participated in several quizzes and games. All participants were glad to improve their English in such a wonderful way.

International Day of Persons with Disabilities - 3 December 2011

2011-12-02T03:41:00.000-08:00

Book exhibition devoted to the International Day of Persons with Disabilities with theme for 2011: “Together for a better world for all:
Including persons with disabilities in development”
was organized in Sumy Oblast Research Library. This exhibition attracted special interest thanks to documentary film about people with disabilities titled: “First of all we are people” This film helps to increase the understanding of the issues around disabilities and pays attention to the dignity, rights and well-being of persons with disabilities.

Online English Language Teaching Resources

2011-12-02T03:22:00.000-08:00

On 30 of November the English school teachers of Sumy and Sumy region gathered at WOA center. We conducted a presentation on “Online English Language Teaching Resources” for 14 teachers. Our guests were exposed to the WOA book collection and trained to use Kindle and iPads. All educators enjoyed the meeting.

Undergraduate Exchange Program

2011-11-15T23:04:00.000-08:00

On November 11 Window on America center hosted the presentation of program of the Open Society Institute Undergraduate Exchange Program for students of Sumy universities.
The presentation was held by Nataliya Bulgakova the director of the Kharkiv Educational Advising Center Osvita. The Undergraduate Exchange Program is a two- year fellowship involving one year, non-degree liberal arts study in the USA and one-year community service leadership in home country.
The students were informed about content of the program, its opportunities, application and selection process.
The presentation revealed a great interest of the students to the studying in the universities of the USA.
For more details and On-line Application Form please visit: www.soros.org/initiatives/scholarship/focus_areas/undergraduate_exchange.

Innovative technologies in the library work

2011-11-15T05:23:00.000-08:00

On November 10th a meeting with librarians of district libraries of Sumy Region took place in Sumy Oblast Research Library.
The librarians learnt the specificity of the department work, its books and DVD collections.
For the specialists of library science was presented information about department’s work with the Internet resources: website of the department, literature blog, Facebook page and EBSCO resources which help in the work of professionals.
The most interesting information for the librarians was the information about work of the Window on America Centre.
At the end of the meeting our guests worked with the new gadgets: iPad and Kindle. Meeting took place in a warm atmosphere, the librarians were very much interested and at the same time admired by the work and opportunities of our center.

What would you do to make our city better?

2011-11-02T00:20:00.000-07:00

Welcome to English-Speaking Club. Last month we had a variety of topics discussed:
4.10 I’d like to make my city better.
Sumy is a wonderful city with a plenty of places of interest, but still it needs improvements. Today our guests tried to answer the question what would you do to make our city better? They played the game “Mayor election”. Each candidate presented his program on Sumy improvement and spoke about the problems to be solved in our city. At the end participants of our club had to vote for the best candidate.
11.10 Describing a Picture
18.10 Writing a letter to your friend
25.10 Synonyms and antonyms

Mobile Technologies for Libraries

2011-10-23T23:47:00.000-07:00

On October 20, a presentation on Kindle and iPad technologies for libraries for directors of regional libraries was held in Putivl (Sumy region). iPads and Kindle are now available for in-library use thanks to a generous contribution from the American Embassy in Kiev. Director of WOA center demonstrated how to use iPad and Kindle, how to install different applications. All librarians enjoyed the presentation and confessed that
when we will have enough users using this technology – we (libraries) can offer new services, and make e-book’s more accessible

Conversation Circle

2011-10-17T23:46:00.000-07:00

Window on America center is pleased to announce that it hosts a weekly Conversation Circle.
You will:
- practice conversational English;
- take part in a number of activities and games;
- get interesting materials for discussion.
The Conversation Circle is led in a form of a natural conversation among friends.
The best way to practice a language is to speak it!

Every Wednesday at 17.00
Looking forward to welcome you here!

System of education in the USA and Ukraine

2011-10-14T04:00:00.000-07:00

On October 13, teachers of the Sumy Branch of Kharkiv National University of Internal Affairs discussed with the Peace Corps Volunteer Arden Stone system of education in the USA and Ukraine, higher education in our countries They also were acquainted with new technology – iPad. Only time will tell the extent of the iPad’s influence, but it is undoubtedly an emerging technology worth teachers and librarians attention.

US Government English Language Teaching and Learning Online Resources

2011-10-12T06:17:00.000-07:00

On 12 of October Sumy WOA center was happy to host the meeting for 14 teachers of English language of Sumy and Sumy region. We presented US Government English Language Teaching and Learning Online Resources and also acquainted our guests with iPads and Kindle and spoke how they could use such devices for beginning foreign language learners. The tablet computer is capable of running many different applications, several of which are quite useful for learning a new language.

iPads and Kindle in Sumy WOA.

2011-10-07T05:13:00.000-07:00

On 6 of October Sumy WOA center hosted meeting for first year students of Sumy State University. We gave them a brief demonstration on something how to use iPad and Kindle such as how to locate ebooks, how to make photos, how to install new application, how to search the library catalog.
Our guests agreed that library is the perfect place to use an iPad much more than a classroom because we have Wi-Fi.

Social issues round-table discussion.

2011-10-04T05:03:00.000-07:00

Welcome to English-Speaking Club. Last month we had a variety of topics discussed:
6.09 Summer vacation.
13.09 What would I do if I received 1 million dollars.
20.09 Brasilia.
27.09 Social issues round-table discussion.
At the meetings of our English-speaking club we’ve made plenty of various interesting activities. We’ve talked about summer most remarkable events, foreign countries and their culture. One of our meetings was devoted to the social issues and undoubtedly it was of great interest for all of us. We were to express our opinion on the following topics: whether it’s necessary to wear a uniform in Ukrainian schools, whether it’s necessary to tell a child that he or she is adopted, what influence mass media have on children and many others.

American Movie Night

2011-09-22T03:53:00.000-07:00

Come and watch the best American movies in our department! You’ll be pleasantly surprised with our collection of films! Every Sunday at 3 p.m.

Flex Alumni Meeting

2011-08-08T00:45:00.000-07:00

On 5 of August Flex alumni of Sumy and Sumy region gathered in WOA Center for a one-day seminar after one year of study in the US. They have a great opportunity to meet other alumni and share their thoughts, to learn more about each other and become friends. Everyone felt free to share their impressions of various states they lived in and visited, of school, school subject, teenager relationship and everyday life of American families. They spoke about some difficulties in the beginning of their staying in the USA and about an important and useful experience.We welcomed guests and told about the opportunities that the WOA center can offer to them, about our resources, events and programs which are conducted here.
We hope to see them in WOA Center again.

American English Online portal

2011-07-21T06:36:00.000-07:00

We’d like to present you American English Online portal http://americanenglish.state.gov/ that will be useful for those who teaches and learns English as a foreign language. Here you’ll find various words and grammar games, reference materials, classroom activities, lesson plans and other useful information about American life, history, culture.

English courses for beginners

2011-07-19T00:29:00.000-07:00

In June we hosted not only English – Speaking Club (7.06 Idioms, 14.06 Playing the Game “Scramble”) but also English courses for beginners. Our PCV Arden organized the courses for beginners. The main goal was to help our users whose level of English was not enough for participating in the meetings of English – Speaking Club. We had few classes which were extremely popular among people of different age and professions because of effective teaching strategies and methods.

Native American Indian Wisdom

2011-06-01T22:39:00.000-07:00

Welcome to English-Speaking Club. Last month we had a variety of topics discussed:17.05 Liberia
24।05 Native Americans – history of USA
31.05 Native American Indian Wisdom
Today’s topic was devoted to the sayings of native American Indians.
“One rain does not make a crop”
“If we wonder often, the gift of knowledge will come”
“Each person is his own judge”
These and many other sayings really keep much sense and undoubtedly could be applied to our today’s life notwithstanding they appeared long time ago. Our participants got acquainted with the offered material and discussed the meaning of each saying.

American and Ukrainian Educational Systems

2011-05-24T03:14:00.000-07:00

On May 24, WOA center was happy to host meeting with Turkey pupils, pupils from Sumy gymnasium and told them about the peculiarities of American and Ukrainian educational systems, dwelled on the advantages and disadvantages of each system. Americans place a high value on education. All participants remembered Kennedy’s words: "Our progress as a nation can be no swifter than our progress in education". Our guests showed a great interest and asked a lot of questions about the opportunities of getting education and internships in the U.S.

India. Watching the photo exhibition about India

2011-05-11T04:35:00.000-07:00

Welcome to English-Speaking Club। Last month we had a variety of topics discussed:5।04 “India. Watching the photo exhibition about India”

The participants of our English-speaking club were suggested watching the photo-exhibition “India. Culture. Traditions”. After that they were asked to share their impressions on what they had seen. Each of the participants expressed his or her opinion about what the life in India was like. After that they read an article about India and had a discussion about it.
12.04 “Interesting Facts about India”
19.04 Playing the Game “Scrabble”
26.04 Ethic Questions

Project Window on America centers in Sumy

2011-05-06T00:19:00.000-07:00

On April 29, Regional Interagency Scientific Conference"Innovation as a factor of Library Development” took place at Sumy Oblast Research Library. There was a presentation of the project of the US Embassy in Ukraine «Window on America Centers». The director of Sumy WOA center acquainted librarians with collections, services and activities of WOA center in Sumy. She provided the audience with information how we use new media tools: Facebook, YouTube, LibraryThing, blogs, online resources, host different clubs, games and innovative programs.

USA Quiz

2011-04-20T23:07:00.000-07:00

On April 20, the pupils from school № 8 visited WOA center. They were presented to WOA center’s resources, encyclopedias Americana and Britannica, dictionaries.
The main topic of our meeting was to know a lot of interesting facts about the USA, its geography, history, the presidents, it’s people. We had gathered together to hold the quiz. It was dedicated to the USA. We travelled about the USA, our trip was merry and interesting. This competition showed achievements and good knowledge of pupils.

Family Law in the USA and Ukraine

2011-04-13T01:13:00.000-07:00

On April 12, the students of the Sumy Branch of Kharkiv National University of Internal Affairs had a chance to take part in the discussion with the native speaker, PCV Arden Stone on family law in the USA and Ukraine. The discussion was very informative and touched on marriages, divorces, adoption, prenuptial agreements, child custody, and property settlements. Historically, in the United States, family law was based on European feudalism. Marriage, as defined by law before the beginning of the 20th century, enabled the husband to become the owner of the wife property’s as well as her legal guardian, despite property laws that gave women more rights regarding property ownership.
It was interesting to know that child custody had been traditionally awarded to mothers from the onset of the 20th century, but as the father's role in the family evolved, laws changed to allow fathers custody, and eventually, the concept of joint custody was created. In joint custody, both parents share the responsibility of taking care of the child. Court decisions do not always make both parents happy.
Students got their interest in the event and expressed a great wish to meet again.

Speaking about Social Issues

2011-04-06T23:31:00.000-07:00

Welcome to English-Speaking Club। Last month we had a variety of topics discussed:15.03 “Idioms. World News” 22.03 “Eating Habits” 29.03 “Speaking about Social Issues” Is it possible for a man and a woman to be friends? Is it obligatory to wear a school uniform in Ukrainian schools? What musical style would you prefer if you could play a musical instrument? What school subjects should be added to the curriculum? These and other matters concerning social issues were discussed at the meeting of our English-speaking club. The participants were given various questions and talked them over in the groups of two. After that each participant had a chance to share his opinion with the whole group and to tell his pros and corns.

Discover America

2011-03-22T01:15:00.000-07:00

On March 21, WOA center organized a meeting devoted to the USA at the Sumy Branch of Kharkiv National University of Internal Affairs. The PCV Arden Stone told about history, traditions, education of the USA and answered student’s questions. More than 30 students took part in the event.

US Peace Corps

2011-03-03T05:25:00.000-08:00

A very special event took place in WOA center on 3 of March. Teachers of English of Sumy and Sumy region were welcomed by our guest, the Peace Corps Volunteer, Arden Stone. She told about the history of establishment of the Peace Corps, about its 50th anniversary, about US Peace Corps in Ukraine and activities of the volunteers in Sumy. Our volunteers teach English in Secondary Schools, Universities, and Pedagogical Colleges, organize Camps–Excite, programs for teacher, English – Speaking Clubs. Arden Stone invited our teachers to take part in all these events.

50th Anniversary of the Peace Corps

2011-03-02T00:24:00.000-08:00

In 2011, the Peace Corps will commemorate 50 years of promoting peace and friendship around the world.
In 1961, President John F. Kennedy signed an Executive Order establishing the Peace Corps. Over the past five decades, Peace Corps Volunteers have served in nearly 140 countries.
Peace Corps was established in Ukraine in 1992 when Ukrainian President Leonid Kravchuk and American President George Bush signed a bilateral agreement to establish a Peace Corps program in Ukraine.Since that time the United States Peace Corps has cooperated with numerous progressive organizations. American Volunteers work and live side by side with Ukrainian colleagues for two years sharing experiences.
If your organization wishes to invite a Peace Corps Volunteer to work with you, please contact Peace Corps to request an application.
Contact Information
Peace Corps Ukraine01032 Kyiv, PO BOX 204 Saksahanskoho 111A St.Telephone: 8 (044) 391 66 20Fax: 8 (044) 391 66 21

American movies

2011-03-02T00:16:00.001-08:00

American movies have entertained and enlightened audiences for more than 100 years. Westerns, thrillers, melodramas, comedies, special effects blockbusters from America have captivated people worldwide.
Our English-speaking club suggested learning more about “Hollywood” and American movie industry. The participants had also a chance to watch few American movies and to enjoy the skillful acting and fascinating plots on 2, 9, 16, 23 of February.

Language learning with Rosetta Stone

2011-02-14T05:42:00.000-08:00

On February 10, 18 students of Sumy Arts College visited the WOA for the first time. They were interested in the WOA center information resources and what public events related to the English language they can attend. The WOA coordinator made a presentation and acquainted them with the Rosetta Stone for learning English, the most popular world multi-media English language leaning software. It teaches language in a very dynamic way and help to teach what words mean without dull and boring.

Homes. Interiors. Traditions.

2011-02-04T00:23:00.001-08:00

Welcome to English-Speaking Club. Last month we had a variety of topics discussed:
11.01 New Year Celebration
18.01 Homes.Interiors. Traditions.

A home is a place where a person lives. And it’s also a good chance to get acquainted not only with the personality of its owner, but also with the customs and traditions of his country. A home can tell much about the way people think, live, spend their free time. Today we’ve made a virtual trip to American homes. We’ve visited few apartments and houses. Some of them were typical American homes. We’ve seen the way American people furnish their apartments and what color gamut they prefer. We’ve paid special attention to details of the interiors and various accessories that make homes more comfortable.

25.01 Belgium

Great thanks!

2011-01-11T23:17:00.000-08:00

We are very much glad to inform that Window on America Center had received nearly 50 new books. These books were donated by the Book Darien Aid Plan and the Cobb County Branch of the American Association of University Women (AAUW). The AAUW is a national women's organization that does a great deal to advance women's rights and promotes the higher education of women through the granting of scholarships.
The necessity of fiction books is very high here and they are very popular among our customers.
Thank you so much and if there’s an opportunity we are always welcome efforts of people sending us books.
Please come to view our display!

The Teaching Excellence and Achievement Program (TEA)

2011-01-06T01:34:00.000-08:00

The Teaching Excellence and Achievement Program (TEA) provides international teachers with unique opportunities to develop expertise in their subject areas, enhance their teaching skills and increase their knowledge about the United States. The international participants will travel to the United States in spring or fall 2012.
Application deadline: 4 April, 2011.
More about the program:
http://ukraine.usembassy.gov/programs-grants/current-programs-and-grants.html

Study in the USA

2011-01-05T06:25:00.000-08:00

Academic ProgramThe Global Undergraduate Exchange Program provides opportunities for undergraduate students from Ukraine for one year of full-time, non-degree study in the United States. First-year students will attend two-year community colleges and live in campus housing (dormitories) or with American host families. All other students will attend four-year universities and colleges and will live in campus housing.
Information on the program, criteria and application process are below, as well as at the IREX website (http://irex.ua/en/education/ugrad).
Applicants are urged to apply online at http://oas.irex.org/ugrad.
Deadline January 14, 2011

Christmas is coming…

2010-12-22T23:55:00.000-08:00

Welcome to English - Speaking Club. Last month we had a variety of topics discussed:

7.12 Playing the Game “Mafia”

14.12 Christmas Carol ( party and movie)

Christmas is coming… It is the time for the whole family to get together at Christmas dinner. Christmas is one of the most popular and important holidays in the USA. And today we had a chance to learn more about Christmas traditions of the American people. We watched the film “Christmas Carol”. And it was a pleasant surprise for us that our volunteer Arden arranged a small stand-up party. So we enjoyed the national American drink and food.

Thanksgiving Day.

2010-12-01T03:50:00.000-08:00

Welcome to English - Speaking Club. Last month we had a variety of topics discussed:

2.11 Communication

9.11 Playing the game "Let's get Acquainted"

16.11 Thanksgiving Day

23.11 Thanksgiving Party. Thanksgiving is a holiday in November and it is a time for people to think about the things they are thankful for. Families and friends come together to celebrate Thanksgiving. They gather around a large table to give thanks for all blessings they have received during the year.
On Tuesday our volunteer Arden decided to make a Thanksgiving party and everyone was welcome to enjoy the warm atmosphere of the holiday. Every guest tried to bring something to eat: fruit, sweets, chocolates, cookies, juice, rolls, and buns. Some people made their best to cook something themselves so they brought home-made food. Before sitting down to dinner, all the participants paused to give their thanks in turns. Then they learnt about Thanksgiving in the USA, discussed interesting issues, took part in playing activities and just communicated with each other. The party was of great success.

30.11 Signs of the Zodiac.

The Launch of the Virtual Library Databases

2010-11-16T05:57:00.000-08:00

WOA center is pleased to announce that access is now available for the global virtual library databases
All EBSCOhost Resources - Cross Searchable A set of databases from EBSCO Publishing - mostly full-text periodical collections, with an emphasis on peer-reviewed journals. Major components are Academic Search Premier with over 4,600 full-text journals and Business Source Premier with more than 2,150 full-text journals. Smaller, more specialized full-text databases include Library, Information Science & Technology Abstracts with Full Text, Regional Business News, and Fuente Academica.
All Gale Resources - Cross Searchable
Gale Virtual Reference LibraryGale Virtual Reference Library is a database of encyclopedias and specialized reference sources for multidisciplinary research. These reference materials once were accessible only in the library, but now you can access them online from the library or remotely 24/7.
Ebrary Public Library (with Elibro & Elivro)Online, full-text collection of over 20,000 books in English, and 35,000 books in Spanish and Portuguese. Covers a wide range of topics, including sociology, psychology, history, political science, medicine, language and literature, philosophy and religion, education, business, the hard sciences and more.
Encyclopedia BritannicaBasic introduction to over 75,000 different topics, including encyclopedia articles, maps, news, definitions, and statistics.
Encyclopedia Britannica for KidsPerfect for students 8 years and above, this resource includes thousands of images, videos, animated timelines and of course, encyclopedia articles. It also has learning activities for English and language arts, mathematics, science and social studies.
Pop Culture UniverseAn authoritative digital library of information on American and world poplular culture, past and present, in a dynamic package. Built on hundresds of award-winning titles for all levels of researchers, PCU provides a safe haven for investigating topics that appeal to students-without the bias, advertising, suggestive content, or questionable authorship of commercial of fan sites.

English Language Teaching

2010-11-11T04:11:00.000-08:00

On November 11 WOA center hosted a seminar for teachers of English language of Sumy and Sumy region. We acquainted them with teaching materials ( books,magazines,CDs, DVDs collections), presented online resources for teachers(English Language Learner Reference Center, Encyclopedia Britannica, Pop Culture Universe). A lot of request for future seminars of this kind were received.

Rosetta Stone

2010-11-05T05:37:00.000-07:00

On November 5 over 30 pupils of secondary school attended our "Window on America" center for the first time. Pupils were told about the activities held in our center and were acquainted with the center's collections of books, CDs, DVDs. Our pupils were acquainted with the Rosetta Stone for learning English.This program uses a combination of images, text, and sound, with difficulty levels increasing as the student progresses, in order to teach various vocabulary terms and grammar without translation. They call this the "Dynamic Immersion method".
Our pupils took an interest in this program.

Michael Jackson, legendary king of pop

2010-11-02T05:48:00.000-07:00

Welcome to English - Speaking Club. Last month we had a variety of topics discussed:

5.10.Elvis Presley

12.10. Quiz

19.10. Social issues

26.10. Michael Jackson

For two weeks the main topic of discussion was American culture and especial attention was paid to American music. We learnt much about two singers, who had taken the top of popularity not only in the USA but also around the world and both of them undoubtedly, had become the symbol of the American pop culture. They are Elvis Presley and Michael Jackson. Our volunteer Arden made the meetings full of activities to make the new information easier to capture: the participants watched music videos, listened to music, read and discussed the articles concerning the topic.

American Exchange Programs

2010-10-29T01:41:00.000-07:00

On 27 and 8 of October our guests Nataliya Bulgakova, director of Educational Advising center "Osvita"(Kharkiv) and Oleg Tseluyko, program coordinator PH International USAID Community Connections program( Kyiv) delivered presentations on american exchange programs for students( Undergraduate Exchange Program) and for office employees, specialists, leaders of local commynity on topic law enforcement and preventive measures in dealing with crime among young people. Our local TV Channel put this event in it's evening news program.

Study in the United States

2010-10-14T05:10:00.000-07:00

The Undergraduate Exchange Program provides an all-expense scholarship for one year at an undergraduate institution in the US. UEP fellows lead, learn, volunteer and receive project funding to improve their home communities! Eligible applicants must be in their second year of Dnipropetrovsk, Donetsk, Kharkiv, Kherson, Luhansk, Mykolaiv, Odessa, Poltava, Sumy, or Zaporizhia university studing: American Studies, Art History, Economic Theory, Fine or Performing Asrts, History, Jornalism, Law, Literature and Languages, Sociology.
Applications due December 1, 2010.
For eligibility requirements and applications, please visit:
www.soros.org/initiatives/scholarship

WOA center and the English teachers

2010-10-12T04:17:00.000-07:00

On October 12 a presentation for 16 teachers of English of Sumy and Sumy region took place at the Window on America center. The event included an exhibition of literature, an overview of center's resources and Internet resources for English teachers. We presented also the Virtual Library Databases (Encyclopedia Britannica, English Language Learner Reference Center and Pop Culture Universe) and invited our guests to take part in numerous WOA center events.

Making - up Poems

2010-10-04T00:46:00.000-07:00

Welcome to English - Speaking Club. Last month we had a variety of topics discussed:
7.09. Getting acquainted.
14.09. Making - up poems.
Are you fond of Shakespeare, Byron, Burns? Are you dreaming about composing verses yourself? Aren't you aware of how to do it? Then you are welcome here to make a try! Our new volunteer Arden told about the main principles of writing verses. Everyone was given his own topic and was offered to create a small verse. The friendly atmosphere of the club encouraged the participants to open the hidden talents. The task was rather puzzling but nevertheless at the end everyone was ready to perform his work.
28.09. Asking questions.

English - Speaking Club

2010-08-27T04:51:00.000-07:00

We are glad to inform that sessions of our English-Speaking Club will take place every Tuesday at 5p.m. with participation of the Peace Corps volunteer. The English Speaking Club is a group of friends who meet on a regular bases. So if you want to speak or practise your English or make new friends from all over the world then come and join us.
You are welcome to English - Speaking Club.

Foreign Languages - Courses

2010-02-24T03:22:00.000-08:00

In the age of globalization, difference in languages should not become a barrier in communication. Keeping this fact in mind our center has started offering foreign language courses – French, Italian and Czech languages. If you decide to include foreign language in your studies, you will find that you have taken an important step in preparing for a career in today’s world. All the language courses at our center are designed to help users to learn and understand the language, literature, and culture of others countries. All foreign language courses are the fun, fast and effective way to learn a second language.
You are welcome!
If you want to join us, call 22-01-33.

Great American Writers.

2010-02-16T06:16:00.000-08:00

On February 16, 2010 WOA center in Sumy hosted an event devoted to the American fiction. We’ve opened book exhibition of such famous American writers as Philip Roth, Ian McEwan, L.Alcott. The books are granted by the American Embassy in Kiev.
32 students from the Machine Building college gathered to listen presentation about the famous books by great American authors such as Jack London, Mark Twain, E. Poe, J.F. Cooper. The event had a great success.

Teachers at WOA Center

2010-01-28T01:26:00.000-08:00

On 27 of January we welcomed teachers at our center despite of January crazy frost (-25C). We presented our resources for teachers, new e-journals and also the Popular Culture Universe database. We hope such resources will help the teachers in their work.

Presentation of "Window on America" Program

2010-01-22T05:36:00.000-08:00

On January 22, 17 teachers from Sumy and Sumy region came to visit WOA center for the first time. They were welcome by the center's director's talk about resources and activities and invited to visit us in the future.
All teachers enjoyed the meeting, after which one person confessed: "We are certain that Window on America is a unique and important program".

Thanksgiving Day

2009-11-30T01:07:00.000-08:00

Welcome to English-Speaking Club. Last month we had a vatiety of topics discussed:03.11. Mafia (Game)
10.11. How to express yourself when you’re sick. Idioms.
17.11. The Difference between American and British Variants of the English Language.
24.11. Thanksgiving Day.
That day we were saying goodbye to the volunteers Rebecca Rogers and David Becker. It was the last time they held the meeting so before leaving they wanted to learn more about Ukrainian traditions. Each participant was asked to choose any tradition and to prepare a small report on it. We are very grateful to our guests from the USA for their active participation in the work of our English-speaking club. The meetings of the club have been extremely fascinating and everybody really enjoyed them. A lot of various interesting topics and situations that were of great use for the English learners were discussed during the latest period. Good luck, Rebecca and David!!!

Gaming in library.

2009-10-30T04:27:00.000-07:00

Welcome to English-Speaking Club. Last month we had a vatiety of topics discussed:

6.10 The most favourite thing about Ukraine, differences between the USA and Ukraine.

14.10 Word scramble. Games are widely used all over the world by teachers and learners of foreign languages. Games stimulate and make the learning process fascinating. We have prepared lots of word games, puzzles, scrambles. At one of the meetings we made up a quiz. The participants were handed out papers with the tasks. They had to complete few tables according to the instructions. The instructions were like this:
- Write a word that rhymes with each word (use both in one sentence)
- For each phrase choose formal, informal or casual forms.
- Write opposite for each of these adjectives
- Say, what each of these people do
and so on.
20.10 Speaking Etiquette.
27.10 Halloween Word Scramble.

French and Italian Clubs

2009-10-05T00:00:00.000-07:00

We are glad to inform that sessions of our French Club will take place every Monday at 17.30 p.m. and Italian Club every Friday at 16.00 p.m.
with participation of native speakers.
Everyone who wants to improve speaking skills, learn more about different countries, discuss different topics or just find some new friends is invited to our clubs.

Debating

2009-10-02T03:35:00.000-07:00

Welcome to English - Speaking Club. Last month we had a variety of topics discussed:
1.09.Computer Safety
8.09. Common English Errors
15.09. Debate. Debate is a formal method of interactive argument. There were two teams to debate - one team is proposing for and one team is opposing (against) the argument. The proposing team went first. The first person on the opposing team rebutted the argument. Then the second person on the opposing team stated their argument and the second person on the proposing team rebutted. The judge announced the most convincing team as winner.
22.09 Four Step Rebuttal
29.09 Spelling Bee.

Innovative Outreach for American Corners

2009-09-15T03:20:00.000-07:00

Vienna, Austria three-day workshop was designed for AC Coordinators. We learned how to use new media tools: Facebook, YouTube, LibraryThing, Twitter and online resources. It was great to know how to set up a conversation cafe and host different games, such as spelling bee, taboo, scrabble, debate to increase the variety of "Window on America" center programs. We learned about innovative ideas for the successful work of our centers.

American Literature

2009-07-27T10:05:00.000-07:00

One of the most popular events among WOA center patrons are lectures delivered by american speakers. On July 27 Jay Treloar, Press Attache Assistant of American Embassy in Kiev, presented american literature and told many interesting things about american literature trends, famous contemporary and classic writers as John Updike and John Cheever. The lecture attracted an audience of more than 30 WOA center patrons, the Peace Corps volunteers, librarians of Sumy Oblast Research Library and had a great success.
Our local radio and TV channel put this event in their news programs.

Educational Resources

2009-06-17T01:23:00.000-07:00

On June 17, 17 pupils of secondary school №9 attended Window on America Center to find out more about our educational resources and to watch wonderful movie Toy Story, the first full-lengh computer animated feature film.We also invited everyone to take part in English-Speaking Club and Camp Excite where they have chance to practice their English with native speakers.

Gestures in our life.

2009-06-17T00:56:00.000-07:00

Welcome to English - Speaking Club. Last month we had a variety of topics discussed:
5.05.Mexico. Cultures and traditions of Mexico.
12.05. Hair. Hair Styles.
19.05. Debate: powerful words.
26.05 Gestures.

Gestures play a major role in many aspects of human life. People use gestures to express their thoughts and emotions. Some gestures are symbolic and international while others are used in particular countries and with particular peoples. It’s important to know the meaning of some gestures because sometimes it may lead to misunderstanding between people. At the today’s meeting you’ll get familiar with the following gestures: approximation gesture, Vulcan salute, good luck gesture, beckoning sigh and so on.
2.06 My Favorite Book

The Universal Declaration of Human Rights

2009-05-06T00:23:00.000-07:00

Welcome to English - Speaking Club.
Last month we had a variety of topics discussed:
7.04. Neural Linguistic Programming.
14.04. If you had million how would you spend it.
21.04. Ukrainian Holidays and Traditions.
28.04. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
Everybody should know what rights he or she possesses. That’s why the Peace Corpus Volunteers (Rebecca, David and Bruce) made up their mind to make this topic principal on the today’s meeting. Each participant was handed out the copy with the full text of “The Universal Declaration of Human Rights”. They read it aloud by turns and discussed if this or that right was fulfilled in different countries and cultures. Our visitors enjoyed the meeting and besides they got plenty of useful and significant information.

American Exchange Programs

2009-04-24T05:48:00.000-07:00

On the 24th of April it was special event and special guest in our city - Nataliya Bulgakova, director of Educational Advising Center "Osvita", who delivered lecture. The purpose of the event was to provide the students of the Academy of Banking with practical information on the current opportunities of studing in America under the exchange programs funded by the US Government. This very interesting lecture was very well attended. Almost 50 people came to meet with Nataliya Bulgakova.

Career and Job Opportunities

2009-04-15T01:28:00.000-07:00

One of the most popular events among our center's patrons are meetings with American speakers. On April 14, Rebecca Rogers, the Peace Corps volunteer, talked about career and job opportunities in the USA and Ukraine, studing through life, about possibility to receive different educations. All the students got interested in the subject and their participation in the conversation was very active.

Internet Resources

2009-04-15T01:12:00.000-07:00

On April 13, a presentation for students from University of "Ukraine" was held at our center. Students were introduced to the Internet resources on teaching English and trained to use them in educational process. All students enjoyed the meeting and we hope to meet them often in our center.

English Language through Movies

2009-04-08T05:34:00.000-07:00

Students of the University of "Ukraine" attended our center to watch movie. This event became an element of their educating process. The teacher was very glad to use such an opportunity and very grateful for it afterwards. Good movies as a rule reach good results. In our case it made teacher and students feel happy and more knowledgeable as to their English.

Resources of WOA Center

2009-04-08T05:23:00.000-07:00

More than 20 students from Building College came to visit WOA center for the first time. They were welcomed by the center's director's talk about resources and activities and the most interesting and exiting - movie show.

Discovering "Window on America"

2009-04-01T04:35:00.000-07:00

Students of the University of "Ukraine" attended our center to watch a movie and to find out more about center resources. Students were told about the activities held in our center and invited to visit us in the future. Undoubtedly, the information gained in our center would help them in their study.

Travelling is something that can open our mind...

2009-04-01T04:20:00.000-07:00

Welcome to English - Speaking Club.

Last month we had a variety of topics discussed:

3.03. NASA Exercise: Survival on the Moon
10.03. Types of Intelligence

17.03. Survival in Jungle
24.03. Proverbs and Sayings
31.03. Travelling is something that can open our mind...

Why do we travel? To see new places? To get new experiences? To meet new people? To get way from the daily routine? Is travelling something that can open our mind? All that and more are the reasons for the traveller and questions of discussion in our club.

American Movie Night

2009-03-10T02:15:00.000-07:00

Window on America center was enriched with huge and remarkable collection of classic and favorite American movies (including Academy Award®-winning dramas, comedies, musicals and documentaries). We have a movie watching program “American Movie Night”. Every Wednesday we invite our patrons to watch an American movie.
You are welcome to our program!

English - Speaking Club

2009-03-06T05:28:00.000-08:00

Window on America center is pleased to announce that sessions of our English - Speaking Club will take place every Tuesday at 5p.m. with participation of the Peace Corps volunteers.
Everyone who wants to improve english speaking skills, learm more about America, discuss different topics with americans or just find some new friends is invited to our Club.
Looking forward to welcome you here!

Lesson Plans

2009-03-04T00:13:00.000-08:00

It has become a good tradition to gather teachers of English at the Window on America center. We acquinted them with webresources on lesson plans. Our guest, Rebecca Rogers, the Peace Corps volunteer told about activities of the Peace Corps in Sumy: Camp Excite for teachers, organization of E.U.clubs and invite our teachers to take part in all these events.

The Best Adventure in your life

2009-03-03T23:21:00.000-08:00

Welcome to our English – Speaking Club
Last month we had a variety of topics discussed:
3.02. Logical tasks.
10.02. The best adventure in your life.
17.02. Comics. Super-heroes.
24.02. Interview. Interviewing people.
This week we’ve had a meeting that could be of great importance and use not only to students but to people of all age. The main idea of the event was to give the participants an opportunity to find themselves in real life situation when applying for job. The participants learnt how to behave during the interview, they found out what questions they could be asked and what tasks they could be given. If you had joined the club you would undoubtedly have gained much experience in this issue.

California

2009-03-03T22:59:00.000-08:00

Welcome to our English – Speaking Club
Last month we had a variety of topics discussed:

13.01. Peculiarities of different professions
20.01. California

What occurs to you when you think of California? Maybe you imagine Hollywood, Disneyland or Silicon Valley? Yes, you are quite right. You can find all this in California. It is a one of the richest state of the USA and its lifestyle is constantly followed all over the world. California is associated with luxury, expensive cars, mansions and celebrities. The main cities are Los Angeles, San Francisco, Santa Barbara, and San Diego. One more interesting fact is that in 2003 the Governor of the state California became the famous actor Arnold Schwarzenegger. If you want to know more about the USA join us!!!

27.01 Consumer and Consumer services