Studying abroad

Choose the correct word. Learning a new language in a foreign country can be a _____ experience.

Match the words to make word combinations.

Choose the correct word. Ben found it quite _____ trying to get used to the cold Alaskan weather.

Choose the correct word. In the beginning, living in a foreign place can feel incredibly _____

Choose the correct word. It is important to learn about _____ and customs before travelling abroad.

Choose the correct form of the verb. We’d better _____ some money to buy him a retirement gift.

Choose the correct form of the verb. Have you decided which university _____ to?

Choose the correct form of the verb. We shouldn't _____ her. She tries her best.

Rewrite the sentences using the causative.

Choose the correct form of the verb. Frances seems ____ late a lot these days.

Read the text and decide if the statements are True, False or Not Stated. Why I decided to spend a year studying abroad Well, generally I thought it would be an adventure and a great learning opportunity to live in a totally different culture. I chose Mexico because I have been learning Spanish now for three years and I wanted to improve my language skills. The best part of my experience It’s very difficult to choose just a few, but one of the best things has definitely been the experience of living with a host family. Mexicans are very warm, outgoing people and my hosts have been treating me like part of their family. During my first week, they invited their whole family for dinner to meet me, and it was fun but quite overwhelming trying to answer all their questions in Spanish. I’ve also been learning to slow down and relax and take an afternoon siesta after a big lunch, like the rest of the family! It’s been fantastic living in one of Mexico’s oldest cities, too, with its beautiful 16th century architecture. It’s a great feeling when you start to feel like you belong in a foreign place. Little things like knowing the answer when strangers ask you directions or getting around without getting lost are so rewarding. Challenging parts of staying abroad Well, I’ve been struggling a bit to get used to the hot weather, but now I wear a hat. It was also difficult to get used to the spicy food, but now I’m really enjoying it. I still have difficulty understanding social etiquette. Last week, for example, a new Mexican friend invited me for dinner and I turned up exactly on time. My host seemed a bit surprised. I found out later that Mexicans usually turn up for an appointment at least half an hour later. Without a doubt, this has been the best experience of my life so far. I’ve become more self-confident, patient and outgoing, and my Spanish has improved even more than I expected. Steven Marshall