Who lives in the U.A.E.?

The Facts:

Only 1/5 of the people living in the United Arab Emirates are native born citizens.

Many of the other residents have come to this country looking for a work. These workers sometimes move to the country alone and send money home to their families, but others will bring their families with them. 

People from south and southeast Asia are one of the largest groups of immigrants.

Arabic people from other countries, such as Iran, are another large group of immigrant workers.

Immigrants come from other countries, as well. I moved from America to teach students English, math, and science. Many other teachers have also been brought to Abu Dhabi, an emirate of the U.A.E., as part of their focus on education. All of those teachers have spoken English since they were children. Some of the countries they came from include America, England, Scotland, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, and Canada. 

Questions to Consider:

What fraction of people are not native born citizens of the U.A.E.?

How many fifths make one whole?

From what countries are the immigrants you see in Georgia?

From what countries are the immigrants who live in other parts of America?

Why do people immigrate to America?

Why would a person need to move to another country to find a job?

If you could move to any country in the world, what country would it be? Why?

Learn an Arabic Word:

Three -- Thalatha -- ثري

Learn More About Abu Dhabi:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Abu_Dhabi

What animals are found in Abu Dhabi?

The Facts:

A variety of animals are found in Abu Dhabi. Camels, goats, and sheep are found on many farms. 

Camel 

Goat

Sheep

Some of the wild animals living in the desert in Abu Dhabi are the red fox, sand cat, and oryx. 

Red Fox

Sand Cat

Oryx

Questions to Consider:

Can you think of other animals that live in the desert?

What animals are raised in farms in Georgia?

What is the state bird of Georgia?

Which animal from Abu Dhabi would you like to see? Why?

How does the hot dry weather of Abu Dhabi impact animal life?

Learn an Arabic Word:

Two -- Ith'nan -- توه

Learn More About Abu Dhabi:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Abu_Dhabi

When the rain finally comes....

The Facts:

Exactly three months after I arrived in Abu Dhabi, it has rained for the first time. The rain changed the look of the island. Since rain only falls here a few days a year, the roads do not have drains to remove the standing water. Cars had to slow down when passing through deep water to avoid an accident. All the plants that usually have a yellow dusty appearance are now shiny and green. Many of the local men could be seen sitting outside enjoying the slight drop in temperature. With school out for a holiday, the children had time to play around the water and examine its effect on their environment. The breeze feels a little cooler, and even though it is still 80 degrees outside, it finally feels like fall is here. 

Questions to Consider:

What is your favorite season?

What changes in the weather signal the beginning of fall?

What changes in your environment occur in fall?

Draw a fall day.

In Georgia, which season sometimes has snow? Which one has afternoon thunderstorms? Which one has frequent showers? 

What do you like to do when you have a holiday from school?

Learn an Arabic Word:

Two -- Ith'nan -- توه

Learn More About Abu Dhabi:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Abu_Dhabi

What plants are found in Abu Dhabi?

The Facts:

Few plants grow in Abu Dhabi because of the desert climate that is hot and dry. Small shrubs and palm trees are seen in areas with natural water sources, such as springs or by the ocean.

The government of Abu Dhabi has planted many different types of plant life here to beautify the surroundings, provide shade for people, and homes for different types of animals. Mangroves are one of the trees planted to provide animal habitats.

Questions to Consider:

What is a habitat?

What plants can you find in your neighborhood?

Draw a palm tree.

Would you like to see a palm tree in the desert or on the beach? Why?

Why would few plants grow in a hot and dry climate?

How does plant life affect animal life?

What animals do you see living in trees and bushes at your school and neighborhood?

Learn an Arabic Word:

Two -- Ith'nan -- توه

Learn More About Abu Dhabi:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Abu_Dhabi