Soho-Ku is a non-profit, non governmental association which aims to improve the living conditions of the disabled people in Shanghai. It was founded and financed in July 2003 by a group of disabled individuals.
Soho-ku's works to aid those with special needs in taking their first steps toward self-help and self-fulfillment. At the same time, they encourage others to give their love and time in bringing new hope to the lives of handicapped men and women, build their strength and self-confidence, and receive disabled persons with an open heart and warmth.
Soho-Ku English Teaching program was started in 2004 by HOS volunteers. Initially, volunteers donated equipment for the elderly and disabled adults. As the program grew, HOS began offering English classes to children and adults with disabilities and financially-troubled families. Hands On volunteers now hold English classes every weekend for Soho-ku members.
In partnership with Talk Da Talk, Hands On moved its English Language program for Soho-ku to the Talk Da Talk facility, enabling Hands On to double its program size.
In addition to teaching classes, volunteers also participate in special events such as parties and outings for Soho-ku members.
Time Commitment: Volunteers must commit for at least one semester and teach two months during the semester (1 semester = 4 months). A volunteer can choose to teach two consecutive months or in alternating months.
In the months that he/she has committed to teaching, a volunteer must conduct classes every Saturday or Sunday morning.Children’s classes are held Saturdays. Adult classes are held Sunday.
Teaching plan: Classes focus on oral English and are based on the students’ request. There is no formal curriculum for the teaching as we understand every teacher has their own style. Our aim is to provide an enjoyable learning experience for both the teachers and students.
However, in order better manage courses and the transitioning teachers, we require our volunteers to submit a simple monthly teaching plan before they begin teaching. The Program manager will oversee the teaching plans of the whole course and make adjustments if necessary.
Class Handover:
Due to the nature of rotating volunteer teachers, smooth class handovers are important to the next teacher as well as students. A class handover summary is necessary to inform the next teacher of topics being taught and the status of students. It should be emailed to the next teacher and program coordinator before the next teacher starts. The incoming teacher will be introduced by the outgoing teacher in her/his last classes. A short handover meeting between the two teachers after the class is beneficial to both.
Other Items:
Students of the two classes are people with disabilities or from financially difficult families. Please be sensitive to their needs during teaching.
Special events like parties or outings can be arranged in a semester. Please contribute your ideas to program coordinator.
Talk Da Talk Club House (580 Xin Hua Road 新华路580号）
