- PRIDE: We are not underachievers!

• Talking about removing the word “underachiever”

Student 1

I don’t like this title …this word "underachiever"

Student 2

You sound upset with this word. What is going on?

Student 1

I don't see myself as an 'underachiever'. In Canada, we can have another meaning for this word. I don't want people to think I don't try my best. I'm an excellent mother and now my children have grown up, I am here finishing high school. I have worked hard to perform as well as I can.

Student 2

I get the idea of using the word "underachiever" from a Simpsons cartoon, the idea of being clever. What I am saying is that people rebel against the system.

Student 1

Let me finish please... I worked hard to fulfill the expectations of my family boss and teachers. I like that the school has high expectations of me, it shows they think I can do better.

Student 2

I see. The word 'Underachiever' would group us with people who don't try hard enough as family members, friends, employees, students. You told me I am having English difficulties, let us look up the word in the dictionary.

Student 1

Yes…let us look up. I am not underachiever. When I do things I do well because I try hard…um…Well, I know what you mean but it is too hard to accept that I was excluded because of the way I learn (right brain). I prefer to believe I was just too busy rising my kids. Now I am coming back and I will be ok.

Student 2(opening the dictionary)

I will see the etymology of the word later but I think I get your point, let me read the word in here

Underachiever: somebody who under performs: somebody who or something that performs less well than might be expected, especially a student whose academic results are poor, given his or her intelligence and aptitude.

Underachiever: A student who does not perform as well as the IQ indicates.

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Dialogues&Stories (Life, School, Classroom)

- FRIENDS: The help I need

...

Student 1

I tried to meet you at school. Did you give up on graduating? Where have you been party girl?

Student 2

My sister had the baby and the aboriginal housing center got her a new place. About 300 for a full house in New Sudbury! So I had to get a new place for me

Student 1

But you moved last week…

Student 2

Oh… I went to the beach again

Student 1

Be aware that you can’t miss too much classes

Student 2

I told the teacher I was moving.

Student 1

Take care, he (the teacher) might kick you out

Student 2

I needed the ride. All my friends were going. Summer is almost over. The bus doesn’t go there, you know.

Student 1

Oh! The collective transportation in Canada is a shame for Canadians, a sin against environment. Most of the people drive cars, avoid giving rides because of insurance and when the city has a collective transportation...it is frustrating... stay 20 minutes to one hour at a bus stop! Better get a ride when you have one!

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Dialogues&Stories (Life, School, Classroom)