The Decision

I’m going to America!
交換學生日記：出發去美國, 我要去美國！

In ninth grade I was preparing for the Basic Competence Test for Junior High School Students. life was busy but not interesting. Then one day, my parents asked if I would be interested in attending an exchange program sponsored by Ayusa. This organization offers high-school students the opportunity to study abroad for one year. The students stay with host families.

So I obtained some information and decided this would be a great chance to improve my English. I could also experience different cultures and broaden my vision. But first I had to pass the SLEP ( Secondary Level English Proficiency Test). Then I had to fill out many forms and get a health check. That helps the families decide which student to host.

Ayusa helped with other procedures like fights. There was some fun during the process, too. For example, Ayusa held a prom. We practiced asking girls to dance. At first, we were all shy, but eventually everyone tried and had a great time!

Now, off I go!

Grammar Gym:
"At first, we were all shy, but eventually everyone tried and had a great time."
"At first we were all shy" , " Eventually everyone tried and had a great time." 
" We can go to the beach to watch the sunset" , " we can drive into the mountains instead."
= "We can go to the beach to watch the sunset, or we can drive into the mountains instead."
"Timothy will handle the guest list, and Maurice is in charge of the food and decorations."

Vocabulary Tips:
competence - 能力，技能。
*Every new student is required to take an English competence test before the semester begins.
*Bob's professional competence in computer software is unquestionable.
broaden - 放宽，扩大，扩展。' broad' -广大的。辽阔的。
*The trip to Europe really broadened my horizons. 视野
*Brad's voluntary work in Africa broadened his life experiences.人生阅历。
procedure -程序，手续，步骤。 
* All of the procedures required to apply for college are quite complicated.
procedure - 手术surgery.
*This minor surgical procedure took only an hour.外科手术。
proceed (v) - continue going on. 进行。
*The meeting proceeded after the short break.休息片刻后会议继续进行。
eventually -最后，终于，终究。
*After months of practicing, Timothy eventually was accepted by team.
*Evan though the couple is apart now, they believe they will be together eventually.
host family - the family host you.
prom - promenade.

Language Tips:
You reap what you sow.-种什么收什么。几分耕耘，几分收获。
reap -收获，收取。收割。
sow -耕耘，撒种。


Notes taking of Studioclassroom