Lessons in ESL
One of my regular residents needed help crafting an essay for ESL class. After some back and forth, this is the essay she wrote about her home city Khartoum.
Khartoum is the capital state of Sudan and also the name of the second largest city in Sudan. It is located at the confluence of the White Nile flowing north from Lake Victoria, and the Blue Nile flowing west from Ethiopia. The location where the two Niles meet is known as the “al-Morgran” meaning the confluence. The main Nile continues to flow north towards Egypt and the Mediterranean Sea. I grew up in the city of Khartoum. I continue to think that this city is beautiful, colossal, and very safe.
The beauty of Khartoum can be seen by the uniqueness of the geography. There are three cities divided by the Niles that make up Khartoum. The cities are linked by bridges. The first bridge is Khartoum North or cal-Khartoum Bahri. To the west is Omdurman. The origin of this word is uncertain. One theory is that the meaning is “rank” or “hose” probably because of the narrow strip of land extending between the Blue and White Niles. The Niles are only a portion of the state’s beauty. Khartoum is home to the National Museum, the largest museum in all of Sudan. There are also many luxury clubs, such as the sailing and German club. The small botanical gardens add an elegant touch and the football club is fancy.
Khartoum is colossal and the largest state in Sudan. The majority of educational institutes are located in the state. This includes fifteen high schools, ten public universities, and nine private universities. The main airport is also located in the state. Khartoum serves as the main hub for Sudan Airways, the main airline carrier. In addition, fifteen bridges connect between the three main cities.
The safety in Khartoum is seen especially with children. Children are free to play outside of their homes because a neighbor is always keeping an eye on their well being. If a child wanders too far, an adult will escort the child back home to ensure he or she is back with their parents. There is also very few petty crimes committed. Neighbors respect each other and their property, expecting the same in return.
When I left Khartoum for America, I was excited to begin life in America, but nervous about leaving a city that I loved and adored. Although I have grown to love America, I plan to return to my home town so that my children can also have the abundant and robust experiences that have become fond memories for myself.
written by Limya M. Posted with permission
Facts about Sudan:
Capital Khartoum
Currency: Sudanese pound (SDG)
Official languages: Arabic, English
Independence from United Kingdon and Egypt was January 1, 1956
Sudan used to be the largest country in Africa and the Middle East (area wise), before the country split in two in July 2011 (Sudan and South Sudan). Visit Ola Diab’s Blog for more facts.
Keep the conversation going. Comments welcomed!