School for exchange students takes a lot of getting used to. American schools are much different than the schools these students leave behind. Anna Formisano from Italy has to adjust to more than just the cold here; she also has to learn how to get along at SVHS.

The Italian and American education systems are very different, especially with regards to the school experience and the approach to learning. In Italy, the system is generally more rigorous and theoretical, while in the United States it is more practical, varied and with a strong spirit of involvement.

In Italy, high school studies are quite demanding. Students focus mainly on theoretical subjects such as literature, history, philosophy and science, with very little space for practical activities. The school days are long and the study load is heavy, with lots of homework and hours spent memorizing concepts. Studying focuses a lot on preparing for exams, often making schooling stressful. The Italian system is structured to prepare students for university, but leaves little space for extracurricular activities or practical experiences. Furthermore, there is a clear division between the various types of schools, each focused on a specific area, and this limits students’ ability to explore different interests, as it is not even possible to choose subjects.

In Italy, the school day in high school is quite intense and tiring. The lesson hours are all compact without much break between subjects, and students only have two short 10-minute breaks during the whole morning. There is no real lunch break: students eat snacks quickly at the end of lessons, keeping in mind that teachers do not like seeing students eating during lessons, or in some cases, those who have sporting commitments immediately after school, bring lunch from home. School usually ends around 2pm, which means students often have to dedicate the entire afternoon to studying, as the workload and homework is heavy.

The Italian education system is also known for its rigidity and formality. There is a strong emphasis on discipline and respect for authority, and students are often expected to address their teachers formally. This can create a somewhat hierarchical and less informal atmosphere than in other countries. The evaluation system in Italy is based on a scale from 0 to 10 rather than letter grades. Six is the minimum sufficient grade.
Furthermore, the Italian school system places less attention on individual expression and creativity in the classroom than systems like the American one, where students are often encouraged to think independently and engage in discussions. In contrast, the Italian system tends to prioritize rote learning, making it a more traditional approach to education.

Italian Schools

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The American education system is markedly different from the Italian one, particularly in its approach to sports and extracurricular activities. While the Italian system places a strong emphasis on academic rigor and theoretical learning, the American system values ​​a more comprehensive education that integrates both academic aspects and physical activities, with sport playing a central role in school life.

In the United States, high school isn’t just about attending classes and studying for tests. It is about personal development, with a strong focus on sport as an integral part of student life. High school students often participate in a wide range of athletic activities, from football and basketball to soccer, volleyball, and track and field. Sport is seen as an opportunity for students to develop important life skills such as teamwork, leadership, discipline and time management, skills which are highly valued both in and out of school.

One of the most distinctive aspects of the American high school experience is the sportsmanship spirit. Sports teams are a source of pride and community for the entire school. The entire school often rallies around their sports teams, with pep rallies, cheerleaders and student sections during games creating a vibrant atmosphere of support and enthusiasm that Italy completely lacks.

The relationship with the teachers is also much more friendly and comfortable, they provide more support and help for those who need it.
Furthermore, in America, the school makes sure to procure the material, even providing a personal computer to each student, while in Italy it is your responsibility to procure the material, buying the books for each subject

American Schools

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In conclusion, the American education system places a strong emphasis on sports as an integral part of student life. It offers numerous opportunities for students to develop physically, socially and emotionally, while offering a sense of school spirit and community. The focus on teamwork, discipline, and leadership in sports enriches the overall educational experience, making the American school system not only about learning from textbooks, but also about learning to be a well-rounded individual.