VOA慢速英语:'Achievement Gap' Closing Slightly for Young Students in U.S.

短语讲解：

1. What is a surprise is that, in the United States, the achievement gap seems to be closing, at least a little.

at least 至少
例句：He's been away for at least a week.
他走了总有一个星期吧。

2. They need to be able to focus on a project and act responsibly in a classroom.

focus on 致力于;使聚焦于
例句：The talks will focus on economic development of the region.
会谈将着重讨论该地区的经济发展。

3. In fact, it has been a promise heard on the political campaign trail -- universal pre-kindergarten classes for all 3- and 4-year-olds.

in fact 事实上;实际上
例句：You have to admit that you are, in fact, in difficulties
你不得不承认，你事实上是陷入了困境。

4. They want them in school because there’s not a cost associated with it, other than the cost of them not having the opportunity to learn.

associate with 与…交往， 联系;交接
例句：Never associate with bad companions.
别和坏人结交。