Studying in the US A. American films exaggerate things in order to excite audiences and so they present a rather odd picture of what life in the US is really like. Even if some ideas are true for certain individuals, they may not be true in general. For example, although Americans tend to be louder than people from other cultures, many of the people you meet when you study in the US will be quiet and polite. B. Americans are much more assertive than most international visitors. They use words as tools to give their views and to accomplish goals. It is expected that you will offer opinions and attempt to persuade someone to adopt your view. Take the initiative and volunteer information that will be of interest. In an interview, talk about your goals and accomplishments. Eye contact is also important. It is not a sign of disrespect, but instead an indication of openness, honesty and enthusiasm. C. You will find that teaching styles in the US are very different from those in other countries. Teaching in the US is interactive and less dependent on rote learning. Professors prefer discussion and debate to passive silence and classes are often organised in groups. Students regularly visit lecturers to ask questions about their courses and how they are doing. Your faculty will also have open office hours for students to come by and ask questions. D. Americans tend to be more informal than people from other countries. It is common for Americans to wear casual clothing to school and to greet professors by first name. Nevertheless, good manners and politeness are always appropriate. If you are courteous and polite, and dress a little more formally than your American friends, it will only reflect well on you. However, as in most countries, it would be inappropriate to wear a T‐shirt and jeans to an interview. E. Unless the professor has indicated that collaboration is expected, you should produce your written work by yourself. Collaborating with fellow students on individual assignments is considered cheating. Studying with others is fine, but assignments should be completed alone. Likewise, using someone else's ideas or quoting a text without properly acknowledging the source is plagiarism. Cheating and plagiarism are grounds for failing or even expulsion. F. Your grade in most classes will be based on your scores on tests, quizzes, and assignments. If the class has a recitation or discussion section, active participation can improve your grade. The better the professor and teaching assistants know you and your work, the better they will be able to judge your progress. Good luck in your first semester! The reading passage has 6 paragraphs, A‐F. Choose the correct heading for each paragraph from the list of headings below. List of headings i. Be prepared for different methods of assessment ii. Mix with people from different country iii. Make sure your work is your own iv. Aim to be successful on your course v. Attend lectures regularly vi. Don’t believe everything you hear vii. Feel free to discuss your education viii. Don’t worry about having a smart appearance ix. Don’t be afraid to speak up 1. Paragraph A ……….. 2. Paragraph B ……….. 3. Paragraph C ……….. 4. Paragraph D ……….. 5. Paragraph E ……….. 6. Paragraph F ………..