Hello, dear readers! I’m taking a quick break from all my homework to write a little update. My days have been full with preparing for the zhongkao exam. Hey how'dya think you'd say that?

1. zon cow?

2. chong kay o? 

3. jong cow?

The answer is ... "jong cow"! Hah. Didn't think you'd be getting a test, did you? Well, zhongkao literally means "middle test". Each year, all Chinese kids in their last year of middle school take this exam. I will be tested on every subject. My grade determines which high school I will attend. If you can get into one of the best high schools, then you have better chance at going on to one of the best colleges. The competition is fierce!

I want to do the best work I can. I know these grades are very important for my future and I don’t want to disappoint my parents or my teachers. I’ve had my nose in books for weeks and weeks and weeks. I feel like I am starting to look LIKE a book. 

Of course, I do set aside SOME time to play with my dog, Lucky. We like walking around the park—it’s a study break for both of us! Do you have to take similar tests in the U.S.? What helps you study?