How to break the news to your Asian parents about your exam grades?
I really need some advice! I have to show my mom my marks in a few minutes, and I’m feeling super anxious about it. I’m in middle school and my parents are Chinese, so speaking to them in English isn’t an option. My Chinese isn’t great, which adds to my stress. Here are my grades:
(In my school, we use achievement levels—AL—for grading, with the best being AL 1. For Higher Chinese, we have Fail, Pass, Merit, or Distinction, with Distinction being the highest.)
- English: 31/40 (77/100, AL 4)
- Math: 27/35 (77/100, AL 4)
- Science: 28.5/100 (96/100, AL 1)
- Standard Chinese: 36/40 (92/100, AL 1)
- Higher Chinese: 20/30 (66/100, Merit)
Total: AL 10, with a Merit
When I look at it this way, it doesn’t seem too terrible, but it’s the worst I’ve ever done, and I’m really worried. PLEASE, does anyone have any advice on what I should say to her? 😭🙏
It sounds like you’re really stressed about showing your grades to your mom. Here are some tips on how to approach the conversation with her:
Be Honest and Clear: Start by being straightforward. You can say something like, “妈妈，我想和你谈谈我的考试成绩。” (Mom, I want to talk to you about my exam results.) This shows her you’re serious.
Explain the Context: Let her know that although your grades may not seem great, you have done well in some subjects. For example, you can say, “在科学和中文方面我表现得很好，但数学和高级中文有点低.” (I did well in Science and Chinese, but I struggled a bit in Math and Higher Chinese.)
Show Your Effort: Mention the effort you’ve put in. Say something like, “我努力学习了，我会继续努力.” (I studied hard, and I will keep trying harder.)
Ask for Help: This shows that you’re willing to improve. You could say, “我希望能得到你的帮助来提高我的高级中文和数学.” (I hope to get your help to improve in Higher Chinese and Math.)
Stay Calm: Remember to stay calm and composed, even if you feel nervous. Take a deep breath before showing her the grades.
Be Prepared for Questions: She may have questions or want to discuss how you can improve, so be ready to talk about specific subjects or areas where you think you need help.
Here’s a possible script you might want to follow:
“妈妈，我想和你谈谈我的考试成绩。我在科学和中文方面表现得很好，得了AL1。这让我很高兴。但是在数学和高级中文方面，我的成绩不太好。我的总分是AL10，虽然不是我期望的，但我会继续努力。我希望能得到你的支持，帮助我提高这些科目。”
Good luck! Remember, communication is key, and showing that you’re willing to improve can make a big difference.