The Pedagogical Meeting of the Teachers of English on the Buzău Valley 21/11/2025

On 21 November 2025, an enthusiastic group of teachers of English on the Buzău Valley gathered for a methodological meeting dedicated to sharing good practices and strengthening professional collaboration. The central event of the meeting was the demonstration lesson on Thanksgiving Day, delivered by Mr. Șerban Daniel, teacher of English at Școala Gimnazială Sat Brătilești located in Brăești commune, Buzău county.

Mr. Daniel Șerban’s lesson provided an excellent example of how traditional cultural content can be revitalized through modern pedagogical approaches. The lesson successfully integrated digital tools, varied teaching materials, and elements of artificial intelligence, creating a dynamic and inclusive learning environment. The pupils were encouraged to participate actively through interactive tasks, visual support, and guided reflection, an approach which allowed all learners, regardless of their ability level, to feel involved and capable of contributing meaningfully.

A key objective of the lesson was the cultivation of gratitude, a value at the core of the Thanksgiving theme. Through interactive resources, vocabulary exploration, and reflective exercises, the learners of English were guided to recognize and express appreciation for people and experiences in their lives. The topic was warmly welcomed as it facilitated the pupils’ personal development.

The participating teachers highly appreciated both the structure and the pedagogical creativity of the lesson. They noted the students’ genuine engagement, the teacher’s efficient classroom management, and the harmonious balance between cultural content and language practice. Everyone valued the fact that the pupils had the opportunity to experience a modern language lesson that combined meaningful learning with emotional development - an approach that can inspire future teaching practices across the Buzău Valley and beyond.

A second highlight of the meeting was the presentation delivered by Mrs. Mădălina Costache, a teacher of English at Şcoala Gimnazială "Vasile Voiculescu" Parscov and Școala Gimnazială "Ing Oprișan Iarca" Unguriu, who disseminated insights from a job-shadowing experience, Digital Education and Emotional Intelligence in School, undertaken at Colegio Nuestra Señora del Pilar in Málaga, Spain. Her report provided a comprehensive overview of the host institution’s best practices in integrating digital competencies with social-emotional learning, illustrating how technology-enhanced instruction can coexist with, and even reinforce, the students’ emotional well-being. Mrs. Costache emphasized innovative approaches to classroom management, the strategic use of digital platforms to support differentiated learning, and structured activities designed to help learners identify and regulate emotions. The participants greatly appreciated the clarity of her presentation and the practical relevance of the strategies shared, many of which can be adapted to local contexts to enhance both digital literacy and emotional intelligence in English language classrooms.

Together, the two contributions - the demonstration lesson and the job-shadowing dissemination - offered a rich and forward-looking perspective on English language education in the Buzău Valley area. They underscored the importance of innovation, collaboration, and continuous professional development, reaffirming the commitment of the teachers of English on the Buzău Valley to creating engaging, inclusive, and future-oriented learning experiences for their pupils.

Special thanks were also extended to Școala Gimnazială, sat Brătilești, the host institution, for its warm hospitality and support for our pedagogical meeting. The welcoming atmosphere, the openness to collaboration, and the commitment to educational standards greatly contributed to the success of the event. All the participants expressed their sincere appreciation and left the meeting inspired, enriched, and motivated to carry forward the valuable ideas and practices shared.

A Happy Thanksgiving Day 2025!

Six Original Open Educational Resources Created for the eTwinning Project “A Song for Our Souls in an English-Speaking World”

On 18 and 19 November 2025, the participants in the eTwinning project “A Song for Our Souls in an English-Speaking World” had a special opportunity to engage with six original digital resources created especially for them. These interactive materials offered students a rich, creative way to explore music, language, and emotional expression.

At the heart of the experience was the song “See You Again”, a powerful piece that speaks about friendship, memory, and coping with loss. The learners discovered the song through a variety of formats, including:

Why Listen to the Song See You Again - an introduction to the song’s themes and impact

See You Again - a guided exploration of the lyrics

See You Again - Voki - an animated character presenting key ideas

See You Again (Exercițiu multimedia) - multimedia activity to deepen understanding

Coping with Loss - Lessons from the song "See You Again" by Wiz Khalifa ft. Charlie Puth - reflections on resilience and healing

How do we cope with loss? (a resource for eTwinning) - a dedicated eTwinning resource encouraging discussion and empathy

These two days allowed the Romanian students not only to practise English in an engaging way, but also to reflect on meaningful life experiences, strengthening emotional awareness and connection within the group.

Through music, technology, and collaboration, the project continues to show how powerful learning can be when hearts and minds work together.

A Song for Our Souls ... a communication workshop for the eTwinning project "A Song for Our Souls in an English-Speaking World"

On 18 November 2025, as part of our ongoing eTwinning project “A Song for Our Souls in an English-Speaking World,” the students enrolled in the humanities class 11U at Liceul Teoretic "Radu Vlădescu" took part in a dynamic communication workshop centred around the powerful song “See You Again.” The workshop was designed not only to improve their linguistic competence, but also to support their emotional growth, empathy, and overall well-being through meaningful interaction and creative expression.

The session began with a collaborative translation task which encouraged learners to consider subtle shades of meaning and emotion, opening the door to deeper cultural and linguistic awareness, followed by a guided listening activity in which the students explored the song’s themes of friendship, loss, gratitude, and hope.

Next, the project participants engaged in group discussions focusing on the universal experience of separation and reunion. These conversations helped them practise expressing feelings in English while building interpersonal communication skills and respectful listening habits. Such exchanges contribute significantly to emotional growth, as students learn to recognise, articulate, and validate emotions - both their own and others’.

A lively role-play segment allowed the participants to step into imagined scenarios inspired by the song. Some groups acted out scenes of saying goodbye, while others performed reunions or supportive friendships. This creative task fostered cooperation, improvisation, and confidence in spontaneous speaking.

To personalise the experience, the students were invited to write short reflections or messages to someone important in their lives. These personalisation activities encouraged introspection and emotional processing, offering a healthy outlet for feelings connected to gratitude, memory, and personal development. Many students volunteered to share their messages aloud, creating a warm and supportive classroom atmosphere.

Throughout the workshop, it became clear that music - especially a deeply emotional song like “See You Again” - can be a powerful tool for well-being. By combining language learning with emotional exploration, the Romanian students not only strengthened their English skills, but also enhanced their self-awareness, resilience, and sense of connection to others.

This workshop has become a memorable highlight of our project, proving once again that music truly is made for our souls.

Bookfest 2026 - A teacher's tips for the transnational multimedia competition

https://www.canva.com/design/DAG4QzJ16t4/VPdw3ItbILlnuBKHsJ0rHA/edit?utm_content=DAG4QzJ16t4&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link2&utm_source=sharebutton

 

EcoDigital Explorers for Sustainability – Learning to Create a Greener Digital Future and a More Connected Learning Community

The eTwinning project “EcoDigital Explorers for Sustainability” brings together students and teachers from eight European countries - Turkey, Romania, Greece, Italy, Ukraine, the Republic of Moldova, Albania, and North Macedonia - united by a shared mission: to combine creativity, technology, and environmental awareness in a collaborative educational experience.

Designed for students aged between 8 and 18, the eTwinning project integrates multiple disciplines such as Art, ICT, Environmental Education, Geography, and Foreign Languages, encouraging an interdisciplinary and hands-on approach to learning. Throughout the 2025-2026 school year, the participants are exploring a wide range of topics, from online safety and national symbols to coding, digital art, and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). By engaging in these varied activities, the European pupils and students will develop essential digital, artistic, scientific, and civic competences, while learning to act responsibly toward nature and their communities.

Using interactive digital tools such as Canva, Scratch, Genially, Digipad etc., and educational mobile apps, the participants have created logos, presentations, posters, stop-motion videos, educational board games, and collaborative digital mosaics. They will also take part in quizzes, contests, and eco-challenges that foster logical thinking, creativity, and teamwork. Through nature exploration activities supported by mobile applications, the project participants will become young scientists and environmental observers, learning to appreciate biodiversity and sustainable living.

Among the outcomes of the international project are: a public TwinSpace with all the documented activities, digital posters and logos, collaborative presentations and videos, mathematical challenges inspired by sustainability etc. all of them remarkable achievements showing the students’ growth in digital literacy, ecological awareness, and motivation to learn through innovation.

However, beyond these tangible results, the Christmas card exchange is one of the most valuable initiative placing strong emphasis on genuine collaboration, with students from different countries promoting friendship and cultural exchange with handmade greeting cards reflecting local traditions. Made from recycled or eco-friendly materials, carrying the beauty of their minds and souls, these greeting cards will develop empathy, respect for diversity, and a European sense of belonging. 

“EcoDigital Explorers for Sustainability” demonstrates how technology and creativity can empower the younger generations to become the responsible citizens and active changemakers of a sustainable, inclusive and more connected future.

Our Song Selection Activity within the eTwinning Project "A Song for Our Souls in an English-Speaking World" 10/11/2025

As part of our ongoing eTwinning project, the Romanian students enrolled in the 11th grade (the humanities class) took part in a creative and engaging activity whose main aim was selecting their favourite song meant to inspire future classwork and the creation of Open Educational Resources (OERs). This collaborative process not only encouraged musical appreciation, but also strengthened the students’ critical thinking and decision-making skills within an international context.

Working in groups, the students first designed a list of five finalist songs chosen for their emotional impact and educational potential:“Die with a Smile” by Lady Gaga and Bruno Mars, “See You Again” by Wiz Khalifa ft. Charlie Puth, “Heaven” by Inna, “Treat You Better” by Shawn Mendes and“Just the Way You Are” by Bruno Mars.

Then they listened to each song, discussed the lyrics, and reflected on their messages of friendship, resilience, kindness etc. conveyed through the music. They then expressed their votes using the whiteboard, allowing everyone to participate democratically and transparently, which is a hallmark of the eTwinning collaborative spirit.

After an exciting round of voting, the winning song was “See You Again” by Wiz Khalifa ft. Charlie Puth. This heartfelt track, with its themes of remembrance and connection, resonated deeply with most of the students. Eventually, it was unanimously seen as a symbol of the friendships that ought to be built in one's life, including through the activities of an eTwinning project.

From an eTwinning perspective, the activity helped our students develop empathy, intercultural awareness, and 21st century skills. Most importantly, it reminded everyone that learning - like music - is best when shared in harmony.

The Collaborative Padlet of the eTwinning project "Bookfest 2026"

In October 2025, within the framework of the eTwinning project Bookfest 2026, 80 pupils and teachers from two European countries and partner schools - Liceul Teoretic "Radu Vlădescu", Pătârlagele (Romania) and Liceul Teoretic "Mihai Eminescu", Florești (The Republic of Moldova) - joined forces to celebrate their passion for reading, curiosity, creativity, and intercultural dialogue. 

One of the most anticipated activities of the transnational project, the collaborative Padlet, promoting both English and Romanian, became a dynamic digital space where the participants could introduce themselves, share their hopes and expectations, and optionally post an inspirational literary quote. This simple, yet powerful tool proved to be a cornerstone of the project’s success, offering multiple educational benefits.

First and foremost, the Padlet provided a safe, inclusive, and friendly environment for communication. Pupils of different ages and language levels felt encouraged to express themselves freely, knowing their contributions were valued and respected. By using both English and Romanian, the participants not only practised and improved their chosen language skills, but also developed a deeper appreciation for linguistic diversity and mutual understanding - which are key goals of the eTwinning philosophy.

Secondly, the activity fostered a strong sense of community and collaboration. Seeing profiles, photos, and quotes from peers across the border helped the pupils realize that they are part of a larger learning network united by a shared love of books. This sense of belonging nurtured motivation and enthusiasm, setting a positive tone for all subsequent project activities.

Moreover, by sharing literary inspirational quotes, the elder students engaged in reflective thinking and cultural exchange. They discovered authors and ideas from other literary traditions, broadening their horizons and sparking curiosity about European literature. The teachers observed that this initial digital interaction encouraged students to read more actively, discuss meaningfully, and connect literature to their personal experiences.

Finally, the Padlet served as a valuable digital literacy exercise. The students learned to use a collaborative online tool responsibly, respecting netiquette and practising digital citizenship in an authentic context.

In conclusion, the collaborative Padlet created for the eTwinning project Bookfest 2026 was not only an introduction, but also a celebration of diversity, creativity, and connection. It demonstrated how digital platforms can build bridges between learners, promote intercultural understanding, and inspire a lifelong love of reading.