Pen Pals Rock!

Do you know what a pen pal is? Pen pals are people who write to each other on a regular basis. Pen pals correspond with one another through letters or emails, writing about their lives, hobbies, family, and interests. A pen pal relationship can begin at an early age and last for decades, or can last for as little as a school year. You can make a friend who lives in your own state, your country, or even across the world. These friendships can last a lifetime!

Do you keep in touch with family or friends from your home country? It is important to learn and gain knowledge about your native culture and life-style. Befriending a student from your home country is an ideal way to do this. While creating a friendship with someone, you are also practicing reading and writing skills, as well as improving your knowledge about your home country.

VOCABULARY:

correspond- to communicate by exchange of letters.

hobbies- an activity or interest pursued for pleasure or relaxation and not as a main occupation.

decade- a period of ten years.

gain- to get (something desired), especially as a result of one's efforts.

befriend- to make friends or become friendly with; act as a friend to; help; aid.

ideal- a standard of perfection or excellence.

improve- to bring into a more desirable or excellent condition.

SENTENCES: Fill in the blanks using the vocabulary words listed above.

I have lived in this house for over a ___________.

Snow days are ____________ for relaxing on the couch and watching movies.

I attempted to ____________ the new kid at school.

People ____________ with one another by writing letters and sending emails.

I need to ____________ my geometry skills before the big test next week.

I will _____________ knowledge by going to school every day.

Some of my ___________ include playing sports, reading, and traveling.

GRAMMAR POINT:

During class we discussed past, present, and future tense. Using at least two tenses, write a letter to a student from your native country. Use the format of a letter (also discussed in class), and include your hobbies, interests, and facts about your family and life-style here in New York. Also, be sure to ask your pen pal questions that you'd like to find out about them.