An American High School

I noticed some differences between American high schools and Japanese high school. First, a American high schools students don't wear uniforms. At my high school in Japan, students have to wear uniforms every day. Second, I was surprised that American students have a lot of opinions, and opportunities to think about things. In Japan, we don't have opportunities to think! In Japan I think, only teachers speak and students only listen so there is only one way! This is not only high school, but in college and university too. There are not group discussions. We are only writing, listening, reading, and so on. Lastly, I was surprised to see a couple kissing in school too!! so I asked an American girl who was sitting in my group if that was normal. She said, "Usually couples aren't kissing in school, but some people do, but I don't like them." When I heart that it made me feel relieved . I didn't know whether or not it was normal before.

Mead High School Is Great!

I got up early at 6:00 am because we were going to Mead high school. The high school was very beautiful. We took a class with high school students. I was surprised when the group discussion was very vigorous. They had different opinions and ideas and I was surprised to find that they were full of confidence. They were positive and friendly. It was fun! American classes are different from Japan. They had announcements anytime, including during class today. They listened carefully, and their teacher asked them questions about the announcements.

Japanese students should be more positive and give your opinions. We shouldn't be afraid of making mistakes! This was the first time I had had an experience like this. I think that today was a very important today. I'll try to speak English and I want to give my opinion about things.

At Mead high school, there were 6 people in my group. I became friendly with one of the girls who is 16 years old. A very young girl! She is very kind. We talked about Japan. I was glad. I also received a cookie from her. It was a surprise. It was very delicious, so I would like to make a cookie for her. I want to see her again. I took a picture with her when I was leaving to go back to school. I think that I was able to experience the different culture in the U.S at Mead high school today.

The student made my day!!

American Schools

Today, I went to an American high school during conversation class. At first, I was scared but I got used to being there soon. I learned many things there though we were only there for a short time. The American students were all active, so I was very surprised. If a teacher asked the students a question, they responded quickly. They raised their hand, and answered. They aren't shy. Almost all Japanese students are shy in class. I respect the American students for being active. First, we talked to each other, but I couldn't understand what they were saying. They and I had a lot of trouble, but they were very kind and smart. They tried to speak English so we could understand. Another surprising thing was they were constantly drinking water in class even when a teacher was speaking, but in America, this is normal. American classes are freer. It is very nice! Second, I was surprised because American students were late for the class, but it seems to be a normal thing too. Today, I felt nervous but happy at last. I felt a lot of culture shock, but I had a wonderful experience. I am a lucky girl.