Iris – Oh No Test Time!: Forming a Study Group

I still vividly remember in my third year in  high school when I missed a lot of classes in math. When the mid-exam was coming up I panicked because I practically knew nothing about the subject!  Fortunately, I had two friends who were willing to help me out.  They had already formed a “study group” and I joined their group.  We discussed academic problems together and shared class notes. I could ask them any question I had about the class.

Apart from academics, we always went to the school STUDY ROOM together. And when any team member was faced with difficulties or felt frustrated, other members would cheer him/her up.  After two hectic yet highly rewarding weeks, I passed the examination with good scores!

I think this phenomenon of forming “Study Groups” depends on different situations. In fact, some study groups do not play a vital role on developing study skills and knowledge because members cannot focus on their lecture. why? As when friends come together, they often chat with each other or share pics rather than study.  However, when we decided to form a study group, we have strong determination to do well in study part. So our parents did not worry about us

Linda – I Solve Problems: Chilling Out and Working Hard

How to face the problem of pressure? I often analyze, analyze and analyze and often end up over analyzing it whether it  necessary or not to analyze.

Some pressure, such as the pressure of study or finding a job is necessary processes in our lives. Other pressures, like school are temporary stresses.

One time we had an exam, a physics exam. I thought I took the test carefully.  But my score was 57, a very low score.  It made me upset and sad.  As a result I  doubted myself, my ability to even reach my other goals, and my ability to catch up with my classmates.  I felt nervous about this situation.

I told my mother my feelings, she said, “dear you know you are no longer a child. You should try to solve it by yourself. I’m sure you can!”

After hearing that I chilled myself out and began to feel that I could solve the problem by myself. I changed my attitude. Everyone has problems when it comes to their study. So I decided to settle it by working hard and paying more attention to my worst subjects. Several weeks later my physics score was 80 and my classmates and teachers said they liked the new Linda. Hearing that encouraged me a lot.

So guys, if you are facing pressure or problems. Please chill yourself first and analyze it. You will find that you too can solve it easily! Go for it!

Iris – Chinese Youth: Staring a Story From My Friend

Yesterday, my friend Ding Yuhan who studied at the high school of United States shared her experience of study abroad to me.

Firstly, I asked her what the difference is between education of China and USA. As a bi-cultural student, Ding Yuhan indicated that different teaching methods influenced different logical thinking. She then mentioned an illustrative example. In China, most students study for exams. Their motivations are propelled by teachers but not interests. However, American education tends to foster students’ potentials and then motivate them to study for interests. Students can ask questions without raising hands or asking after class. This flexible atmosphere always evokes creative ideas in the class. Furthermore, Ding Yuhan also explained common phenomenon of Chinese student study abroad. Although, they are always good at mathematics, physics and grammars, they can not solve difficulties when they face practical problems. This point actually exist at Chinese education. Therefore, what can we do and how can we change are topics we should think about.

Ding Yuhan also showed her interests in the music of Justin Timberlake. She prefer the singer’s classical songs rather that hits feat with rappers. We also talked about the significant experience we had. We both applied volunteers for Beijing 2008 Olympics. Unfortunately, I had to give up this chance due to the age limit and my study schedule. Ding Yuhan kept her dream and then became an qualified volunteer.

Ding Yuhan will have volunteer training courses after June. Apart from diplomatic skills , she also need to master related English vocabularies. When I asked what images Beijing citizens should have, Ding Yuhan answered ,“Smile is the best card of volunteers.”