Here are some excerpts from the postcards of English students studying in China. Please identify they were written in which stage of cultural adaptation.

1. 

Dear Joan,

Life here seems not so bad after all. The people are quite nice once you get to know them a little better and begin to figure out their way of looking at things. Guess I’m beginning --- just beginning --- to know the ropes.

                                                                                                                                               Love

                                                                                                                              Peter

2. 

Dear Mum and Dad,

I’m really feeling fed up with my life here and longing for home. Getting anything done over here is a nightmare --- the locals are so lazy and unhelpful. And on top of all that I feel rundown and sleepy all the time, seem to have lost all my zest.

                                                                                                                                        Love

                                                                                                                       Jim

3. 

Dear Michael,

This is a fantastic place! So many interesting things to see, such as the Forbidden City and the Temple of Heaven. Even wandering the streets is a delight with all the bustle and hordes of cyclists. I’m really happy I came.

                                                                                                                               Best wishes

                                                                                                                 Simon

4. 

Dear Nicky,

Thanks for your letter. It was lovely to hear from you. I’ve been thinking about your question about what I find strangest about living in China --- but the trouble is I’ve been here so long and have settled into the way of life so much that everything seems perfectly ordinary! So, if you want to find out you’ll have to come out to see for yourself with a fresh pair of eyes. I can be your guide!

                                                                                                                     Best wishes

                                                                                                                         Paul