First of all, すみません。I apologize for not achieving what I promised about blogging consistently over winter break (冬休み). Due to a health condition, I was unable to really focus on studying and practicing Japanese throughout the break. This unfortunate situation has made me nervous for the upcoming final, but I will still try my best to do well (to myself: がんばって！）
For my PE goal, I honestly did not accomplish all that I set out to do. Due to the demands of schoolwork, sports, extracurriculars, and personal and family health issues, I had a lot on my plate and ended up unable to handle all the goals and expectations I put on myself. I did listen to some Japanese music (Jpop) and rewatched a little bit of anime (1-2 episodes?). I spoke over break a little bit as well with Japanese classmates through Skype. I also tried teaching my parents some Japanese phrases. However, I could have done a lot better with keeping up with my goals each week and trying to practice speaking Japanese more often.
Despite some let-downs, I do think I learned a lot this semester about how I learn Japanese best and what I need to improve on. With the help of PE exercises, I have gained a better fluency in speaking, listening, and using correct pitch patterns. While I have much room to improve, I will do my best these several days to prepare for the final oral exam. I am not expecting much given the hard health and mental obstacles I faced this first semester, but I do want to give it my best shot. My ultimate goal, though, is to speak as closely to a natural speaker as possible. Therefore, next semester, I am determined next semester to practice more using Nakama related exercises, to go to Shibata sensee's office hours for pronunciation as much as I go to Sato sensees's office hours, to write Japanese phrases on the blog more, to do extra workbook practice and review the textbook chapters weekly.
リリアン チェン
