Good morning everyone! As I walk through the校园 gate every day, I always feel excited about the new challenges and opportunities that await. This year marks my second year in junior high school, and it has been a journey full of personal growth. I'd like to share with you my reflections on learning, friendship, and self-discovery during these past twelve months.
The first area that has significantly improved is my academic performance. Initially, I struggled with math problems that required logical thinking, especially algebraic equations. However, through consistent practice and asking teachers for help after class, I gradually developed a systematic approach. For example, I created flashcards to memorize formulas and formed study groups with classmates to explain difficult concepts to each other. These efforts paid off when I scored 92% on the mid-term exam. What's more important than the scores is the ability to analyze problems step by step, which I now apply not only to math but also to science experiments and English reading comprehension.
Beyond academic studies, extracurricular activities have enriched my life. Our school's basketball team recruitment last fall was particularly memorable. Although I wasn't selected as a starting player, the coach encouraged me to join the training sessions as a substitute. Through daily dribbling drills and learning defensive strategies, I improved my coordination and teamwork skills. By the end of the season, I became the team's best free-throw shooter. This experience taught me that perseverance leads to unexpected opportunities. Currently, I'm taking up digital painting classes after school. Painting landscapes under the guidance of our art teacher has improved my observation skills and creativity.
Family support plays a crucial role in my development. My parents have established clear expectations but also respect my personal choices. Every Sunday evening, we hold family meetings to discuss school projects and weekly goals. Last month, when I wanted to participate in a national English speech contest, they helped me create a practice schedule instead of just saying yes or no. My father often shares stories about his college days, showing me how setbacks can become stepping stones. These conversations help me build confidence while maintaining a balanced perspective.
Looking ahead, I've set three main goals for next year. First, I aim to master the past tense irregular verbs in English through daily quizzes and conversation practice. Second, I want to lead the school's environmental protection club by organizing campus recycling campaigns. Third, I plan to participate in a month-long volunteer program at the community library during winter break. These objectives connect my academic knowledge with real-world applications, which I believe will make learning more meaningful.
However, I'm also aware of potential challenges. Balancing study time with extracurricular activities sometimes causes stress. Last month, when preparing for both the physics exam and the art exhibition, I nearly gave up on the watercolor painting project. My teacher suggested time-blocking techniques, which helped me manage tasks more efficiently. This taught me the importance of prioritization and learning to say no when necessary.
Another lesson I've learned is the value of cultural exchange. Last November, our school hosted international students from Canada and Japan. As part of the welcoming committee, I prepared traditional Chinese calligraphy demonstrations and shared about Confucian values through stories. This experience not only improved my public speaking skills but also deepened my understanding of cultural diversity. Now, I actively participate in English debate clubs to enhance my communication abilities in a global context.
In conclusion, these twelve months have been a rewarding period of exploration and adaptation. I've discovered that learning extends beyond textbooks to include sports, art, family interactions, and cross-cultural exchanges. The key takeaway is that growth comes from embracing challenges, seeking help when needed, and maintaining a positive mindset. As I step into my third year of junior high, I'm determined to build on this foundation by setting realistic goals, practicing time management, and continuing to seek knowledge from various sources. Remember, every small effort today paves the way for a brighter tomorrow. Let's keep learning, growing, and supporting each other on this journey of self-discovery. Thank you.