How time flies! With a wink of my eyes, this is already the fourth week of the June vacation. I recalled the time that I waited for this vacation to come. This week was a busy week for me. My schedule, for this week, was very packed. I had to plan all my programmes and activities carefully.
I spent this week to finish up my projects. I finished the most interesting one of my projects. It was the DV Campus. We had to record one of the school events. Initially, we wanted to film the STAR Programme. However, we realised that the Ideas Day was coming. We were fortunate that everyone was free on that day. After much consideration, we chose that day because this event was a very meaningful one.
It was a time when teachers share on innovative teaching and learning practices, pedagogical content knowledge and creative projects. The school had also cordially invited parents to join them. It was meant to strengthen their partnership with them by providing an opportunity for parents to understand the school commitment in providing an engaging, creative and innovative learning environment.
In line with our school’s theme (Bridging Gaps) this year, teachers had prepared projects and lectures based on that theme. It was meant to better engage pupils with quality learning experiences. Teachers share with everyone on how they had conducted their lessons and explaining to the parents on their teaching methods. After each sharing session, the teachers involved would ask for feedbacks and areas of improvement.
Due to time constraint, we stayed for a few sessions and went off to edit our video. Although we had stayed for a short period of time, we could still take lessons from the sharing sessions. We realised that the teachers had been putting in a lot of effort to put us on the right track. Therefore, I feel that we should not take things for granted and treasure what we have now.
(328 words)
Thursday, June 19, 2008
Third Week of the Holidays
In every parent’s hearts, his or her children are their main priority. My parents were also the dearests to me as they were the ones who stood by me, be it rain or shine. I had always wanted to thank them for giving me the best. The best time I could thank them was on Mother’s Day and Father’s Day. Mother’s Day had passed and we had a big celebration for my mother. Without my mother, the family accounts would be in a big mess.
Not to forget my father, my father was the sole breadwinner in my family. Without him, we would not have the money to spend. My sister and I made use of Father’s Day to thank him for what he had done for us. Coincidentally, Father’s Day fell on Sunday. It was family day too. Every Sunday was family day. We planned many things for him.
In the morning, my family had booked a place in a restaurant for my father’s favourite, American Breakfast. It was a big surprise for him as we usually spent our mornings in markets. In the afternoon, we headed to my father’s favourite shopping centre, Suntec City. Before we arrived at Suntec City, I could see traffic jams building up the entrances. Chattering groups of eager-eyed pedestrians, especially housewives and children, were purposefully heading towards the building. Suddenly, I realised that it was the last day of the PC show.
At that moment, I remembered my father loved computer items. Before we stepped into the convention hall, I saw throngs of people heading for the hall. I knew that the place would jam-pack. My thoughts were true. When I entered the hall, I heard continuous chatter of eager shoppers and the cries of harassed mothers and excited children. Group of mothers, fathers or children with maids in tow were determinedly mounting the place to realise their shopping goals.
After a while, we decided to leave the place, as it was getting very crowded. We spent our whole afternoon in the mall, window-shopping from shop to shop. After that, we had our dinner there before we headed home. Though it was a tiring day, I have enjoyed myself thoroughly as it was a day I would never forget.
(376 words)
Not to forget my father, my father was the sole breadwinner in my family. Without him, we would not have the money to spend. My sister and I made use of Father’s Day to thank him for what he had done for us. Coincidentally, Father’s Day fell on Sunday. It was family day too. Every Sunday was family day. We planned many things for him.
In the morning, my family had booked a place in a restaurant for my father’s favourite, American Breakfast. It was a big surprise for him as we usually spent our mornings in markets. In the afternoon, we headed to my father’s favourite shopping centre, Suntec City. Before we arrived at Suntec City, I could see traffic jams building up the entrances. Chattering groups of eager-eyed pedestrians, especially housewives and children, were purposefully heading towards the building. Suddenly, I realised that it was the last day of the PC show.
At that moment, I remembered my father loved computer items. Before we stepped into the convention hall, I saw throngs of people heading for the hall. I knew that the place would jam-pack. My thoughts were true. When I entered the hall, I heard continuous chatter of eager shoppers and the cries of harassed mothers and excited children. Group of mothers, fathers or children with maids in tow were determinedly mounting the place to realise their shopping goals.
After a while, we decided to leave the place, as it was getting very crowded. We spent our whole afternoon in the mall, window-shopping from shop to shop. After that, we had our dinner there before we headed home. Though it was a tiring day, I have enjoyed myself thoroughly as it was a day I would never forget.
(376 words)
Sunday, June 8, 2008
Second Week of the Holidays
I enjoyed the second week of the holidays the most. My mother took my family on a trip to Penang, Malaysia. We had been there before but this time, it was a different experience. Upon arrival, we took a taxi to the hotel. When we told the taxi driver our hotel location, he muttered a few words. Although he did not speak clearly, I could still make out what he said. He wanted us to know that at that hour, the road to the hotel would be congested. The congestion was not as bad as I had expected. I felt that it was the same as Singapore’s traffic conditions.
After checking-in, we went to our rooms. While travelling up to our rooms, the bellboy asked us if we wanted to tour Penang. He told us that his friend was a tour-guide and could bring us to places like their famous Tambun Biscuits factories, a chocolate factory and Penang Hill. As we have not visited these places before, we decided to give them a try. We happily employed his friend as our tour guide.
The next day, the tour-guide was very punctual and picked us up in the morning. He had planned our journey for us and we were pleased with his efficiency. Our first destination was the 830-metre high Penang Hill. We took a tram, which operates every half an hour, up. The fares were inexpensive – RM4 for adults and RM2 for children, which were around S$2 and S$1 respectively. The tour guide told us the reason for the inexpensive fares was that they were subsidised by the government.
The tram was really old and dirty; there were stains and patches of grease on its sides. It was filthy yet a large number of people used it daily without qualms. When we boarded the tram, it was very crowded. The tram was as slow as a tortoise. It felt as if it were moving at ten kilometres per hour. Finally, we reached the peak of the hill. The air at the top of the hill was refreshing and the scenery was beautiful. A cool breeze fanned my face and the wisps of mist were lovely to behold. This really made my day! After that, we took the tram down the hill. We were relieved that the tram was not as crowded as before.
The next destination was the chocolate factory. It was Penang’s very own chocolate factory. When we first reached the factory, the chocolates fascinated us. The whole place was filled with packets of chocolates and there were also big bags of chocolates, which were value for money. Unlike in Singapore, they put fresh fruits in their chocolates. What fascinated me was that although fruits cannot be kept after you have cut them, they were able to be preserved in the Penang chocolates. I was shocked when I saw the expiry dates – those chocolates could be kept for at least one year!
Penang is also famous for their white coffee. After the chocolate factory visit, we proceeded to a coffee factory. When we entered the factory, the staff welcomed us and kept offering us different kinds of coffee to try. We were treated to twenty-five different flavours of coffee until they confused our taste buds!
Our last planned destination for the day was the visit to Penang’s famous Tambun Biscuits. We visited many Tambun Biscuits factories before arriving at one which produced the flavour we really liked. After the copious tasting, I was thoroughly sick of Tambun Biscuits. Nonetheless, I will always remember this trip, as it was my first time trying different kinds of Penang delicacies.
(608 words)
After checking-in, we went to our rooms. While travelling up to our rooms, the bellboy asked us if we wanted to tour Penang. He told us that his friend was a tour-guide and could bring us to places like their famous Tambun Biscuits factories, a chocolate factory and Penang Hill. As we have not visited these places before, we decided to give them a try. We happily employed his friend as our tour guide.
The next day, the tour-guide was very punctual and picked us up in the morning. He had planned our journey for us and we were pleased with his efficiency. Our first destination was the 830-metre high Penang Hill. We took a tram, which operates every half an hour, up. The fares were inexpensive – RM4 for adults and RM2 for children, which were around S$2 and S$1 respectively. The tour guide told us the reason for the inexpensive fares was that they were subsidised by the government.
The tram was really old and dirty; there were stains and patches of grease on its sides. It was filthy yet a large number of people used it daily without qualms. When we boarded the tram, it was very crowded. The tram was as slow as a tortoise. It felt as if it were moving at ten kilometres per hour. Finally, we reached the peak of the hill. The air at the top of the hill was refreshing and the scenery was beautiful. A cool breeze fanned my face and the wisps of mist were lovely to behold. This really made my day! After that, we took the tram down the hill. We were relieved that the tram was not as crowded as before.
The next destination was the chocolate factory. It was Penang’s very own chocolate factory. When we first reached the factory, the chocolates fascinated us. The whole place was filled with packets of chocolates and there were also big bags of chocolates, which were value for money. Unlike in Singapore, they put fresh fruits in their chocolates. What fascinated me was that although fruits cannot be kept after you have cut them, they were able to be preserved in the Penang chocolates. I was shocked when I saw the expiry dates – those chocolates could be kept for at least one year!
Penang is also famous for their white coffee. After the chocolate factory visit, we proceeded to a coffee factory. When we entered the factory, the staff welcomed us and kept offering us different kinds of coffee to try. We were treated to twenty-five different flavours of coffee until they confused our taste buds!
Our last planned destination for the day was the visit to Penang’s famous Tambun Biscuits. We visited many Tambun Biscuits factories before arriving at one which produced the flavour we really liked. After the copious tasting, I was thoroughly sick of Tambun Biscuits. Nonetheless, I will always remember this trip, as it was my first time trying different kinds of Penang delicacies.
(608 words)
First Week of the Holidays
The days that I have been yearning for have arrived – the school holidays! The past few weeks have been very hectic and I would be exhausted at the end of each day. During those days, I longed for a break badly and would grab almost any opportunity to rest. There was a palpable sense of excitement as the holidays approached. I told myself constantly that I should really treasure this break and refresh myself; so that I can be geared up for the next journey when school reopens.
I was thoroughly rested on the first two days of my holiday. On the third day, I headed back to school in the morning. My teacher conducted Physics remedial on Tuesday and Wednesday. It was optional for those students who had passed the SA but I chose to go back in order not to miss any pointers that the teacher might give. I felt that even though I had passed, I needed more practice in the subject.
After the lesson, I met my group members to work on a Mathematics project which had been assigned to us. We met at Ang Mo Kio Central to buy the materials needed. After buying them, my friends headed for my house. Unfortunately, there was a heavy downpour and we were all drenched. Luckily, two of my group members had umbrellas and we were spared from being drenched. We had a brain storming discussion and were glad that the session was really fruitful. I could feel team spirit as everyone contributed their ideas. This group is a wonderful one as everyone is enthusiastic. I am impressed with my friends’ creativity and their sincere cooperation.
On Thursday and Friday, I attended the annual Red Cross camp. It was my first time –being one of the organisers for the camp – guiding my juniors through many exciting experiences. We had planned many team-building games and activities for the juniors. To our delight, they thoroughly enjoyed them. We also had our first outdoor cooking experience. It was exciting as I had not done any outdoor cooking before. As I type this, I can still remember the overcooked instant noodles with egg. The soup was very starchy. It resembled pasta carbonara! On the last night of the camp, we had our campfire with the NPCC (another uniformed group that camped with us). During the campfire, there was joy and sadness. On one hand, there were many entertaining performances, all wonderful and hilarious. On the other hand, two Cadet Inspectors (CIs) from the NPCC were leaving, which saddened the NPCC members. To send them off, they presented a few gifts to the CIs, together with their well wishes.
Despite that emotional moment, we still had so much fun that we lost track of time. When the campfire was being put out, I reflected on the events of the past two days.
These memories ended the first week of my holidays. I had an enriching week, as I had learnt many memorable lessons. Through the camp, I learnt more about teamwork, as well as the trust that we should have among our peers. It also gave me first hand experience in handling a big group of people. I look forward to the next camp!
(541 words)
I was thoroughly rested on the first two days of my holiday. On the third day, I headed back to school in the morning. My teacher conducted Physics remedial on Tuesday and Wednesday. It was optional for those students who had passed the SA but I chose to go back in order not to miss any pointers that the teacher might give. I felt that even though I had passed, I needed more practice in the subject.
After the lesson, I met my group members to work on a Mathematics project which had been assigned to us. We met at Ang Mo Kio Central to buy the materials needed. After buying them, my friends headed for my house. Unfortunately, there was a heavy downpour and we were all drenched. Luckily, two of my group members had umbrellas and we were spared from being drenched. We had a brain storming discussion and were glad that the session was really fruitful. I could feel team spirit as everyone contributed their ideas. This group is a wonderful one as everyone is enthusiastic. I am impressed with my friends’ creativity and their sincere cooperation.
On Thursday and Friday, I attended the annual Red Cross camp. It was my first time –being one of the organisers for the camp – guiding my juniors through many exciting experiences. We had planned many team-building games and activities for the juniors. To our delight, they thoroughly enjoyed them. We also had our first outdoor cooking experience. It was exciting as I had not done any outdoor cooking before. As I type this, I can still remember the overcooked instant noodles with egg. The soup was very starchy. It resembled pasta carbonara! On the last night of the camp, we had our campfire with the NPCC (another uniformed group that camped with us). During the campfire, there was joy and sadness. On one hand, there were many entertaining performances, all wonderful and hilarious. On the other hand, two Cadet Inspectors (CIs) from the NPCC were leaving, which saddened the NPCC members. To send them off, they presented a few gifts to the CIs, together with their well wishes.
Despite that emotional moment, we still had so much fun that we lost track of time. When the campfire was being put out, I reflected on the events of the past two days.
These memories ended the first week of my holidays. I had an enriching week, as I had learnt many memorable lessons. Through the camp, I learnt more about teamwork, as well as the trust that we should have among our peers. It also gave me first hand experience in handling a big group of people. I look forward to the next camp!
(541 words)
Sunday, April 27, 2008
How I Made A Difference
Do you want to study or work in a clean environment? As long as everyone does their part by not littering, the environment will be free of litters as well as a conducive place for everyone to play and work in. When we litter, you are harming the environment. Currently, the ozone layer is getting thinner and thinner. As a result, many harmful sunrays are entering through it. They have caused global warming.
These sunrays are harmful to the skin and can cause skin cancer. At the moment, the cases of skin cancer patients have gone up. At the same time, there is a shortage of landfills for the rubbish. In the past, people would use their things for a very long time. Things that were bought were usually functional, not trendy. In today’s throwaway society, we have the tendency to buy and throw away things when they are no longer in trend. This bad habit increases the amount of rubbish in landfills. At the same time, rubbish in landfills will decompose and produce harmful gases. We should try to recycle and reuse the product when possible. Our schools are promoting the recycle programme. Thus, we should participate and do our part for the environment by spreading the message to our family, relatives and friends.
We should also educate our loved ones about the importance of conserving our environment. We can help by expressing awareness of our own environment. In addition, we can give a hand by educating or brainstorming ideas on how to conserve and save the environment.
Everyone should play their part in contributing his or her own ways to protect the environment. Otherwise, the consequences can be dire if no action is being taken. When these gases are released, they make the ozone layer thinner; allowing harmful sunrays to come through, causing a rise in the Earth’s temperature. This in turn causes the polar icecaps to melt, changing the world’s water levels; damaging homes and endangering the lives of both people and animals. The least that we can do to reduce the harm to save the environment is by using less plastic bag and if possible, use recycled bags, using public transport and carpool. Therefore, it is a shared responsibility when it comes to protecting our environment. We should be responsible for our own actions and ensuring that the environment is a conducive place for everyone as this is where we belong and we should help to keep this place a safe one for everyone to live in.
(421 words)
These sunrays are harmful to the skin and can cause skin cancer. At the moment, the cases of skin cancer patients have gone up. At the same time, there is a shortage of landfills for the rubbish. In the past, people would use their things for a very long time. Things that were bought were usually functional, not trendy. In today’s throwaway society, we have the tendency to buy and throw away things when they are no longer in trend. This bad habit increases the amount of rubbish in landfills. At the same time, rubbish in landfills will decompose and produce harmful gases. We should try to recycle and reuse the product when possible. Our schools are promoting the recycle programme. Thus, we should participate and do our part for the environment by spreading the message to our family, relatives and friends.
We should also educate our loved ones about the importance of conserving our environment. We can help by expressing awareness of our own environment. In addition, we can give a hand by educating or brainstorming ideas on how to conserve and save the environment.
Everyone should play their part in contributing his or her own ways to protect the environment. Otherwise, the consequences can be dire if no action is being taken. When these gases are released, they make the ozone layer thinner; allowing harmful sunrays to come through, causing a rise in the Earth’s temperature. This in turn causes the polar icecaps to melt, changing the world’s water levels; damaging homes and endangering the lives of both people and animals. The least that we can do to reduce the harm to save the environment is by using less plastic bag and if possible, use recycled bags, using public transport and carpool. Therefore, it is a shared responsibility when it comes to protecting our environment. We should be responsible for our own actions and ensuring that the environment is a conducive place for everyone as this is where we belong and we should help to keep this place a safe one for everyone to live in.
(421 words)
Growth Camp 2008
I will always remember the Growth Camp that I attended this year. I was thrilled when Mr Bala, my form teacher, told us the details of the camp. For the past few years, the camp had been held in school. This year, the location of the camp was unique: the camp would take place at the MOE campsite in Jalan Bahtera. Although I was unable to participate in some games due to my back problem, I was not upset as I looked forward to the experience. I knew that I would learn many life skills at the camp.
Many games were held outdoors. As a result of the bad weather, many outdoor games had been cancelled. Fortunately, our instructors were well prepared and we played the wet weather activities planned for us. In one of the games, we had to roll a ball down successfully. Though we encountered many problems along the way, we persevered against those obstacles. During the game, I could feel the team spirit that I had always longed for my class to have. At that moment, I wished we could be that united all the time. After many failures, we finally succeeded. We were ecstatic! By that time, the rain had stopped and we continued with other activities that had been planned for us.
On the second day, my group was supposed to kayak. Initially, we were in high spirits and the mood was set for an enjoyable day. Unfortunately, due to the bad weather, we were unable to kayak. Our spirits dampened when we heard the bad news. Later, the rain abated. To our surprise, we were told that we were able to kayak. We were overjoyed when we heard the good news. Without hesitation, we rushed to the kayaking station and were given a pre-kayak briefing. We understood the safety precautions and were given instructions to kayak. We started kayaking. Due to the erratic weather, we were told to kayak near the coast. We enjoyed ourselves so thoroughly that we were sad to leave that place.
After that, we washed up and, went for campfire preparation. My group had our very own dance and cheer. I loved the dance best as we had dedicated most of our time to that dance. During the campfire, we put up a wonderful performance. We encountered many problems along the way and even quarrelled with one another before we got things done. However, we were not put off by those quarrels. We still cooperated with each other. I was grateful that things worked out well.
On the last day of the camp, we cleared the areas assigned to us. After that, we headed back to school. Many of us were sad to leave the place. We knew that good things would have to come to an end one day but these memories would forever be deeply etched in our hearts.
(482 words)
Many games were held outdoors. As a result of the bad weather, many outdoor games had been cancelled. Fortunately, our instructors were well prepared and we played the wet weather activities planned for us. In one of the games, we had to roll a ball down successfully. Though we encountered many problems along the way, we persevered against those obstacles. During the game, I could feel the team spirit that I had always longed for my class to have. At that moment, I wished we could be that united all the time. After many failures, we finally succeeded. We were ecstatic! By that time, the rain had stopped and we continued with other activities that had been planned for us.
On the second day, my group was supposed to kayak. Initially, we were in high spirits and the mood was set for an enjoyable day. Unfortunately, due to the bad weather, we were unable to kayak. Our spirits dampened when we heard the bad news. Later, the rain abated. To our surprise, we were told that we were able to kayak. We were overjoyed when we heard the good news. Without hesitation, we rushed to the kayaking station and were given a pre-kayak briefing. We understood the safety precautions and were given instructions to kayak. We started kayaking. Due to the erratic weather, we were told to kayak near the coast. We enjoyed ourselves so thoroughly that we were sad to leave that place.
After that, we washed up and, went for campfire preparation. My group had our very own dance and cheer. I loved the dance best as we had dedicated most of our time to that dance. During the campfire, we put up a wonderful performance. We encountered many problems along the way and even quarrelled with one another before we got things done. However, we were not put off by those quarrels. We still cooperated with each other. I was grateful that things worked out well.
On the last day of the camp, we cleared the areas assigned to us. After that, we headed back to school. Many of us were sad to leave the place. We knew that good things would have to come to an end one day but these memories would forever be deeply etched in our hearts.
(482 words)
Sunday, March 23, 2008
Career Choice
· Information about the career of your choice
· A discussion on your career choice
During the past few weeks, I have been thinking what I would like to be when I grow up. I know that there are many job opportunities in the market. Choosing a job may be easy but excelling in it may not be so. Deciding on a job is simple. However, when you really have a try at the job, your abilities might not be up to it.
After much consideration, I have chosen the post of events manager in Marriott Hotel (Singapore). I feel that this job is very interesting and at the same time, it will allow me to widen my network of friends.
In this job, I must be able to lead and also plan major events. I will oversee and manage the successful execution of all in-house events, offering personalized service to increase guest satisfaction. I will be reporting to the director of Events Management. The minimum criterion for this job is two years of relevant catering sales experience. In catering sales, I will be required to identify and acquire corporate and social events. I should also possess strong organizational and coordination skills. As I move into events managing, I will need to be goal-driven and self-motivated, as well as have good negotiation skills. The role of event organiser is hands-on and often involves working as part of a team. I must be able to complete a wide range of activities requiring clear communication and must respond quickly to change, ensuring the smooth and efficient running of an event.
There are attractive career prospects for this job. Promotion may involve a move from an assistant post to team leader; which may include managing a small team. With experience, I am likely to take on responsibility for larger scale events, which are more complex, involving higher profile clients and managing bigger budgets. I may even move to a larger company or become a freelance event management consultant. It will be a big jump from being an ordinary events manager and the path is going to be challenging. However, I look forward to the challenges that I will face and hope that I learn new things as I undertake my duties.
(363 words)
References:
1. Straits Times Classifieds
2. http://www.prospects.ac.uk
· A discussion on your career choice
During the past few weeks, I have been thinking what I would like to be when I grow up. I know that there are many job opportunities in the market. Choosing a job may be easy but excelling in it may not be so. Deciding on a job is simple. However, when you really have a try at the job, your abilities might not be up to it.
After much consideration, I have chosen the post of events manager in Marriott Hotel (Singapore). I feel that this job is very interesting and at the same time, it will allow me to widen my network of friends.
In this job, I must be able to lead and also plan major events. I will oversee and manage the successful execution of all in-house events, offering personalized service to increase guest satisfaction. I will be reporting to the director of Events Management. The minimum criterion for this job is two years of relevant catering sales experience. In catering sales, I will be required to identify and acquire corporate and social events. I should also possess strong organizational and coordination skills. As I move into events managing, I will need to be goal-driven and self-motivated, as well as have good negotiation skills. The role of event organiser is hands-on and often involves working as part of a team. I must be able to complete a wide range of activities requiring clear communication and must respond quickly to change, ensuring the smooth and efficient running of an event.
There are attractive career prospects for this job. Promotion may involve a move from an assistant post to team leader; which may include managing a small team. With experience, I am likely to take on responsibility for larger scale events, which are more complex, involving higher profile clients and managing bigger budgets. I may even move to a larger company or become a freelance event management consultant. It will be a big jump from being an ordinary events manager and the path is going to be challenging. However, I look forward to the challenges that I will face and hope that I learn new things as I undertake my duties.
(363 words)
References:
1. Straits Times Classifieds
2. http://www.prospects.ac.uk
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
Your Views on Chong Boon School Rules
Does it help to implement school rules? School rules are part of the discipline system. They are the roots of controlling a school. Rules help keep the school a safe and conducive place for everyone to learn. In Singapore, laws replace rules. If you break a law, you will be fined or jail. Likewise, rules are similar except that students will get detention or lighter punishment instead of those harsh punishments, which adults get. However, in Chong Boon Secondary School, the punishments are slightly different from other schools. Similarly, when students in Chong Boon Secondary commit a mistake, they will still get punished in our own Chong Boon way. For example, in Chong Boon Secondary School, detention is being known as PRIDE time. PRIDE is our school core values. Therefore, I feel that school rules are important to any schools and school rules can help to keep a school going.
In Chong Boon Secondary School, we emphasize on ABC. What are they? They are appearance, behaviour and confidence. Why is it compulsory for students to wear the school uniform? It is a form of identity for the students. However, many students feel that buying the school uniform is a same of money and it is also ugly. Some students even try to make modifications to the uniform and such actions are severely dealt with by the school. Many other schools’ students have praised Chong Boon School’s uniform as they feel that it makes them feel very smart. Unfortunately, some Chong Boon students do not feel that way as they feel that it is very warm and they are unable to concentrate in class. Hence, many students want to wear home clothes instead of school uniform but that is not permitted. This is because this is a secondary school and we are not polytechnic or university.
Chong Boon Secondary School also emphasize on behaviour. There are school rules on behaviour. Though manners should have been taught at home, students still spend most of their time in school. Therefore, the school has to implement some rules on behaviour because going to school does not mean just studying but also learning moral and life values. In the civilized society, more and more parents are unable to look after or teach their children the importance of manners. It is when the schools have to step in and assist in the teaching of their children. However, it is not the responsibility of the school. It is still the responsibility of the parents and the school is just helping so as to allow the students to be a useful citizen. As in Chong Boon’s mission, they want all students to be a thinking and gracious citizen.
The school rules are handy and helpful when it comes to disciplining the students. It is meant to develop the students into a thinking and gracious citizen. However, some people may feel that the rules are meant to control them and they do not like the feeling of being controlled. Have they ever thought if there is no rule or law, will the Singapore education system smoothly run? Will every student be able to gain so much knowledge? Hence, we should be grateful to our school as they help to implement rules that will teach us how to conduct ourselves as well as teach us the importance of punctuality.
Therefore, school rules are implement for a purpose. Since it is meant to help us, we should follow the rules, as it is something positive. In the future, when we start working, the company will definitely have their own rules. We, as employees, will still have to follow it. Since we are given a chance to start from young and try to adapt to following rules, we should cherish it and treat it as something positive. In this way, we can also discipline ourselves at the same time.
(647 words)
In Chong Boon Secondary School, we emphasize on ABC. What are they? They are appearance, behaviour and confidence. Why is it compulsory for students to wear the school uniform? It is a form of identity for the students. However, many students feel that buying the school uniform is a same of money and it is also ugly. Some students even try to make modifications to the uniform and such actions are severely dealt with by the school. Many other schools’ students have praised Chong Boon School’s uniform as they feel that it makes them feel very smart. Unfortunately, some Chong Boon students do not feel that way as they feel that it is very warm and they are unable to concentrate in class. Hence, many students want to wear home clothes instead of school uniform but that is not permitted. This is because this is a secondary school and we are not polytechnic or university.
Chong Boon Secondary School also emphasize on behaviour. There are school rules on behaviour. Though manners should have been taught at home, students still spend most of their time in school. Therefore, the school has to implement some rules on behaviour because going to school does not mean just studying but also learning moral and life values. In the civilized society, more and more parents are unable to look after or teach their children the importance of manners. It is when the schools have to step in and assist in the teaching of their children. However, it is not the responsibility of the school. It is still the responsibility of the parents and the school is just helping so as to allow the students to be a useful citizen. As in Chong Boon’s mission, they want all students to be a thinking and gracious citizen.
The school rules are handy and helpful when it comes to disciplining the students. It is meant to develop the students into a thinking and gracious citizen. However, some people may feel that the rules are meant to control them and they do not like the feeling of being controlled. Have they ever thought if there is no rule or law, will the Singapore education system smoothly run? Will every student be able to gain so much knowledge? Hence, we should be grateful to our school as they help to implement rules that will teach us how to conduct ourselves as well as teach us the importance of punctuality.
Therefore, school rules are implement for a purpose. Since it is meant to help us, we should follow the rules, as it is something positive. In the future, when we start working, the company will definitely have their own rules. We, as employees, will still have to follow it. Since we are given a chance to start from young and try to adapt to following rules, we should cherish it and treat it as something positive. In this way, we can also discipline ourselves at the same time.
(647 words)
Monday, March 10, 2008
Chinese New Year
Why is Chinese New Year so important to the Chinese? Chinese New Year marks a fresh, new start for everyone, as before the festival begins, the Chinese have to clear any debts, unhappiness or enmity. The Chinese New Year season lasts for fifteen days and during those days, the Chinese are not supposed to say inauspicious words.
On Chinese New Year’s eve, the Chinese will give their home a thorough cleaning. It is believed the cleaning removes the bad luck of the preceding year and makes their homes ready for good luck. Some people give their homes, doors and window-panes a new coat of red paint. Homes are often decorated with paper cutouts of Chinese auspicious phrases and couplets. Families will come together on this day to have a meal. This meal is also known as the reunion dinner. After the dinner, children will also stay awake during the night to pray for the good health and longevity of their parents. This is known as ‘Shou Sui’.
On the first day of Chinese New Year, brooms and dust pans are put away so that luck cannot be swept away. In the morning, the families open their doors very early in the morning to welcome the God of Wealth, who is known as the ‘Cai Shen Ye’. Many people also abstain from meat on this day because this is believed to ensure long and happy lives for them. It is believed that it is a form of respect for the younger generations to visit the older generations in the family. The Chinese will put on their new clothes before the visiting journey starts. On this day, the children and unmarried people get red packets with a few words of blessings from their elders. Lion dance troupes are also deployed to ward off bad luck.
On the second day of Chinese New Year, married daughters return home to reunite with their family. The seventh day of Chinese New Year, also known as the birthday of everyone (‘Ren Ri’), is the birthday of the Jade Emperor. It is when the Chinese toss Chinese-style raw fish salad known as ‘Yu Sheng’. In the midst of tossing, people typically shout out words of blessing for good luck. The fifteenth day, the last day of the new year, is celebrated as ‘Yuan Xiao Jie’. On this day, families eat sweet glutinous rice balls known as ‘tangyuan’, brewed in a sweet soup.
Chinese New Year is very important to the Chinese as it marks a new beginning for the Chinese. Every Chinese treats the festival as a period for relaxation and enjoyment. However, children and unmarried people also treat it as a time for them to obtain easy money, as they only have to greet their elders to receive red packets from them. Most importantly, it is a period of time for the Chinese visit their families and to get together with relatives and friends.
(488 words)
On Chinese New Year’s eve, the Chinese will give their home a thorough cleaning. It is believed the cleaning removes the bad luck of the preceding year and makes their homes ready for good luck. Some people give their homes, doors and window-panes a new coat of red paint. Homes are often decorated with paper cutouts of Chinese auspicious phrases and couplets. Families will come together on this day to have a meal. This meal is also known as the reunion dinner. After the dinner, children will also stay awake during the night to pray for the good health and longevity of their parents. This is known as ‘Shou Sui’.
On the first day of Chinese New Year, brooms and dust pans are put away so that luck cannot be swept away. In the morning, the families open their doors very early in the morning to welcome the God of Wealth, who is known as the ‘Cai Shen Ye’. Many people also abstain from meat on this day because this is believed to ensure long and happy lives for them. It is believed that it is a form of respect for the younger generations to visit the older generations in the family. The Chinese will put on their new clothes before the visiting journey starts. On this day, the children and unmarried people get red packets with a few words of blessings from their elders. Lion dance troupes are also deployed to ward off bad luck.
On the second day of Chinese New Year, married daughters return home to reunite with their family. The seventh day of Chinese New Year, also known as the birthday of everyone (‘Ren Ri’), is the birthday of the Jade Emperor. It is when the Chinese toss Chinese-style raw fish salad known as ‘Yu Sheng’. In the midst of tossing, people typically shout out words of blessing for good luck. The fifteenth day, the last day of the new year, is celebrated as ‘Yuan Xiao Jie’. On this day, families eat sweet glutinous rice balls known as ‘tangyuan’, brewed in a sweet soup.
Chinese New Year is very important to the Chinese as it marks a new beginning for the Chinese. Every Chinese treats the festival as a period for relaxation and enjoyment. However, children and unmarried people also treat it as a time for them to obtain easy money, as they only have to greet their elders to receive red packets from them. Most importantly, it is a period of time for the Chinese visit their families and to get together with relatives and friends.
(488 words)
Sunday, March 9, 2008
My Reflections on the trip to the Singapore Flyer
On Friday, I had a ride on the world’s biggest observation wheel. It is also the first observation wheel that Singapore has ever had. I felt privileged that my school was one of the first few schools that were allowed to board the Singapore Flyer. I was really thrilled and excited about the trip. I had passed by the Flyer many times and had always wanted to be in one of the capsules. I had many expectations from the ride. On the night before, I even listed them out on a piece of paper.
As the observation wheel is about forty-two storeys high, I hoped to see the tall buildings in the city area from a bird eye’s view. I had always wanted to see the Esplanade from a vantage position because it is a unique structure. Moreover, there is construction work going on in the Marina area because of the Marina Integrated Resort as well as the Marina Barrage. This area is fenced up but on the Flyer, I hoped to see how the construction work is going on.
I believed that the wheel would move at a fast pace but I feared that it would be unventilated and overcrowded. I was also worried about its stability, as each capsule would seat twenty people. Nonetheless, when the day finally arrived, I was filled with excitement.
Before the ride, the waiting area was very lively as everyone was eager to board the capsule and there was a cacophony of student chatter. I visited the rainforest right below the Singapore Flyer and experienced an overwhelming serenity there. There were many different kinds of trees and the air in the rainforest was very fresh. In addition, there was a mini fountain to cool the place down and the feeling was revitalizing.
We had to board the capsule quickly as the wheel was moving continuously and many people boarding the same capsule as me. The capsule was better than I expected. It was stable and spacious. I thought that with twenty people in one capsule, it was going to be really stuffy and unstable. Fortunately, it was not and there was still much space for moving around within. The view from the top of the Flyer was fantastic. The thing that excited me the most was the view of the Esplanade. It was very prominent unlike the other buildings surrounding the Flyer. When my capsule reached the top of the Flyer, I felt as if I was flying in the air. I could feel as though I was growing taller all of a sudden and it seemed like I was nearly the same height as the buildings! However, I felt terrified, as I was slightly acrophobic. I managed to overcome that by not looking down and just looking straight at the buildings.
During the ride, something caught my attention. In order to measure the volume of the capsule, my friends used their own bodies. It was interesting as it was my first time coming across such a creative idea. I thought that it was brilliant of them to conceive of such an idea in such a short time. First, they compared their heights. Next, they used their bodies to measure the different dimensions of the capsule. Only after they had verified all the required dimensions, they calculated the volume of the capsule using the formula of the cylinder. I was very impressed by this and thought that it was a memorable part of the trip.
I feel that the trip was worth going on as it was a whole new experience for me as I had not been on an observation wheel or a Ferris wheel before. Although it was not as stimulating I had expected, I enjoyed the feeling of being up in the wheel and enjoying the panoramic scenery. I would take the ‘flight’ again as it was a pleasurable experience. However, I hope to take the flight in the night the next time: having seen the view in the day, I now wish to see Singapore’s night view. I would strongly recommend the flight to my friends and family members as I hope they could experience the wonderful view that I did, as well as the exhilarated feeling of being in the air.
(713 words)
As the observation wheel is about forty-two storeys high, I hoped to see the tall buildings in the city area from a bird eye’s view. I had always wanted to see the Esplanade from a vantage position because it is a unique structure. Moreover, there is construction work going on in the Marina area because of the Marina Integrated Resort as well as the Marina Barrage. This area is fenced up but on the Flyer, I hoped to see how the construction work is going on.
I believed that the wheel would move at a fast pace but I feared that it would be unventilated and overcrowded. I was also worried about its stability, as each capsule would seat twenty people. Nonetheless, when the day finally arrived, I was filled with excitement.
Before the ride, the waiting area was very lively as everyone was eager to board the capsule and there was a cacophony of student chatter. I visited the rainforest right below the Singapore Flyer and experienced an overwhelming serenity there. There were many different kinds of trees and the air in the rainforest was very fresh. In addition, there was a mini fountain to cool the place down and the feeling was revitalizing.
We had to board the capsule quickly as the wheel was moving continuously and many people boarding the same capsule as me. The capsule was better than I expected. It was stable and spacious. I thought that with twenty people in one capsule, it was going to be really stuffy and unstable. Fortunately, it was not and there was still much space for moving around within. The view from the top of the Flyer was fantastic. The thing that excited me the most was the view of the Esplanade. It was very prominent unlike the other buildings surrounding the Flyer. When my capsule reached the top of the Flyer, I felt as if I was flying in the air. I could feel as though I was growing taller all of a sudden and it seemed like I was nearly the same height as the buildings! However, I felt terrified, as I was slightly acrophobic. I managed to overcome that by not looking down and just looking straight at the buildings.
During the ride, something caught my attention. In order to measure the volume of the capsule, my friends used their own bodies. It was interesting as it was my first time coming across such a creative idea. I thought that it was brilliant of them to conceive of such an idea in such a short time. First, they compared their heights. Next, they used their bodies to measure the different dimensions of the capsule. Only after they had verified all the required dimensions, they calculated the volume of the capsule using the formula of the cylinder. I was very impressed by this and thought that it was a memorable part of the trip.
I feel that the trip was worth going on as it was a whole new experience for me as I had not been on an observation wheel or a Ferris wheel before. Although it was not as stimulating I had expected, I enjoyed the feeling of being up in the wheel and enjoying the panoramic scenery. I would take the ‘flight’ again as it was a pleasurable experience. However, I hope to take the flight in the night the next time: having seen the view in the day, I now wish to see Singapore’s night view. I would strongly recommend the flight to my friends and family members as I hope they could experience the wonderful view that I did, as well as the exhilarated feeling of being in the air.
(713 words)
Friday, February 29, 2008
New Technology: A Threat or a Promise?
A Threat
Technology is a threat because of the harm it inflicts on the environment. Technology has led to an increase in industrial production, which causes harmful gases and chemicals to be released into the environment. When such gases are released, they make the ozone layer thinner; allowing harmful sun rays to come through, causing a rise in the Earth’s temperature. This in turn causes the polar icecaps to melt, changing the world’s water levels; damaging homes and endangering the lives of both people and animals.
Technology can also affect health. For example, some machines may emit harmful radiation. Harmful chemicals and gases may be emitted as well in the course of production work; for example, in the assembly of certain machines and other industrial products.
Moreover, technology such as the Internet can be harmful. It can be used by unscrupulous people to prey on young children, as well as used to cheat people of their money through online scams. It can propagate dangerous ideas as well as infringe on one’s privacy.
A Promise
Technology is a promise because it helps us conserve the environment. It recycles and purifies previously undrinkable water for drinking. Technology allows solar power to be harnessed for vehicles, thereby reducing the use of fossil fuels which causes air pollution. Technology like the Internet allows online examinations and online submission of office work – this reduces paper usage and is cost-efficient.
Technology is also a promise because it helps medical causes. Advancement in technology helps find cures for diseases, as well as make positive changes to medical procedures. For example, people are now able to have certain surgeries without going under the knife.
In addition, technology is a promise because it improves standards of living. It allows the handicapped or elderly to move about more easily on public transport. It also creates single products that can fulfil many functions/be used for different purposes. In this way, we do not have to buy so many individual products to fulfil specific functions. Furthermore, technology creates products that are handy and compact; saving us space.
Technology is a threat because of the harm it inflicts on the environment. Technology has led to an increase in industrial production, which causes harmful gases and chemicals to be released into the environment. When such gases are released, they make the ozone layer thinner; allowing harmful sun rays to come through, causing a rise in the Earth’s temperature. This in turn causes the polar icecaps to melt, changing the world’s water levels; damaging homes and endangering the lives of both people and animals.
Technology can also affect health. For example, some machines may emit harmful radiation. Harmful chemicals and gases may be emitted as well in the course of production work; for example, in the assembly of certain machines and other industrial products.
Moreover, technology such as the Internet can be harmful. It can be used by unscrupulous people to prey on young children, as well as used to cheat people of their money through online scams. It can propagate dangerous ideas as well as infringe on one’s privacy.
A Promise
Technology is a promise because it helps us conserve the environment. It recycles and purifies previously undrinkable water for drinking. Technology allows solar power to be harnessed for vehicles, thereby reducing the use of fossil fuels which causes air pollution. Technology like the Internet allows online examinations and online submission of office work – this reduces paper usage and is cost-efficient.
Technology is also a promise because it helps medical causes. Advancement in technology helps find cures for diseases, as well as make positive changes to medical procedures. For example, people are now able to have certain surgeries without going under the knife.
In addition, technology is a promise because it improves standards of living. It allows the handicapped or elderly to move about more easily on public transport. It also creates single products that can fulfil many functions/be used for different purposes. In this way, we do not have to buy so many individual products to fulfil specific functions. Furthermore, technology creates products that are handy and compact; saving us space.
Monday, January 28, 2008
Has The Internet Caused More Harm Than Good?
Using the computer is what most students do when they get home from school every day. For them, connecting to the Internet is a must. Most students make use of the Internet to play games and to communicate with their friends. The Internet also helps them in their projects and research work. Moreover, the use of the Internet helps to conserve the environment as emails and e-news websites reduce paper usage. Although the Internet has negative aspects such as pornography and online scams, its positive ones far outweigh them. As such, I strongly disagree that the Internet causes more harm than good.
The Internet helps students to find out more about the subjects that they are taking or are going to take. It helps them clarify things that they are unsure of. Search engines on the Internet also help students to widen their general knowledge. In addition, students can conserve the environment by emailing their friends instead of writing letters. What’s more, communication with their pen pals is faster through emails.
Furthermore, the Internet can help everyone to connect with people overseas. As a result, we can make friends with people from other countries and learn more about their cultures. The Internet has also made it easier for people with have relatives or friends overseas to communicate without the use of money. There is no cost attached to emailing or chatting online. The Internet also allows them to see their relatives or friends in other countries through the webcams. In this way, they can also know how are their relatives or friends doing.
Besides the above, the Internet allows people to shop online as it is convenient and time-saving. However, shopping online may encourage people to buy more as it is more convenient and people do not have to go out to buy. Hence, they might spend more money on the Internet than going out to buy personally.
It cannot be denied that the Internet has its dangers. Irresponsible people make use of it to cheat young children and women through chat rooms. There is a plethora of pornography websites on the Internet as well. Some people also argue that the Internet causes harm as students start to lose concentration when they get too obsessed with their Internet games and sometimes, online chats. However, the Internet is not harmful in itself – the blame should not be put on the Internet but on the people who use it for harmful purposes. Students should also have the self-discipline to stop using the computer when they have to.
In conclusion, the Internet is not as bad as it seems to be. Although the Internet has its dangers and unpleasant aspects, this negative influence can be controlled by avoidance, as well as behaviour. Ultimately, the Internet has more benefits than harm.
(467 words)
The Internet helps students to find out more about the subjects that they are taking or are going to take. It helps them clarify things that they are unsure of. Search engines on the Internet also help students to widen their general knowledge. In addition, students can conserve the environment by emailing their friends instead of writing letters. What’s more, communication with their pen pals is faster through emails.
Furthermore, the Internet can help everyone to connect with people overseas. As a result, we can make friends with people from other countries and learn more about their cultures. The Internet has also made it easier for people with have relatives or friends overseas to communicate without the use of money. There is no cost attached to emailing or chatting online. The Internet also allows them to see their relatives or friends in other countries through the webcams. In this way, they can also know how are their relatives or friends doing.
Besides the above, the Internet allows people to shop online as it is convenient and time-saving. However, shopping online may encourage people to buy more as it is more convenient and people do not have to go out to buy. Hence, they might spend more money on the Internet than going out to buy personally.
It cannot be denied that the Internet has its dangers. Irresponsible people make use of it to cheat young children and women through chat rooms. There is a plethora of pornography websites on the Internet as well. Some people also argue that the Internet causes harm as students start to lose concentration when they get too obsessed with their Internet games and sometimes, online chats. However, the Internet is not harmful in itself – the blame should not be put on the Internet but on the people who use it for harmful purposes. Students should also have the self-discipline to stop using the computer when they have to.
In conclusion, the Internet is not as bad as it seems to be. Although the Internet has its dangers and unpleasant aspects, this negative influence can be controlled by avoidance, as well as behaviour. Ultimately, the Internet has more benefits than harm.
(467 words)
Tuesday, January 8, 2008
An Interesting Thing That Happened During The Holidays
Despite having been to Hong Kong many times before, I had never been to Ocean Park. Last December, I was finally able to visit this tourist spot. It was my first trip there and the most memorable ride that my family and I took was the ‘Raging River’, a boat ride on a winding waterway.
Before we boarded the boat, we saw some people wearing ponchos. We were puzzled about this and wondered why. I was filled with trepidation as we boarded the boat. We did not have seat belts and had to hold on to the handrails. The boat moved and we had a slow ride around before we went up a steep slope.
Due to the twists and turns of the waterway, we kept knocking into its sides. We went through a dark tunnel, up a gentle slope before arriving at the final steep slope. At first, I naively thought that the gentle slope was the highlight of the ride and I screamed when we descended it. Little did I know that the boat would take us down a more fearsome slope.
While the boat was going up the slope, I was really nervous and my heart was stamping furiously. My parents told my sister and me not to release our hands no matter what. We heeded their advice and as the boat plunged down, I screamed my lungs out! It felt as though my heart had been left behind.
At the end of the slope, the water splashed onto our bodies. The towering waves drenched us from head to toe. It was then that I realised the need for a poncho and regretted not wearing one.
I had sat at the end of the boat, which was the worst position because it felt like I would be flung out of the boat any time, when it went down the slope. It was the most thrilling ride that I had ever taken. Nonetheless, I vowed never to take such rides again because it was also a traumatic experience for me.
(342 words)
Before we boarded the boat, we saw some people wearing ponchos. We were puzzled about this and wondered why. I was filled with trepidation as we boarded the boat. We did not have seat belts and had to hold on to the handrails. The boat moved and we had a slow ride around before we went up a steep slope.
Due to the twists and turns of the waterway, we kept knocking into its sides. We went through a dark tunnel, up a gentle slope before arriving at the final steep slope. At first, I naively thought that the gentle slope was the highlight of the ride and I screamed when we descended it. Little did I know that the boat would take us down a more fearsome slope.
While the boat was going up the slope, I was really nervous and my heart was stamping furiously. My parents told my sister and me not to release our hands no matter what. We heeded their advice and as the boat plunged down, I screamed my lungs out! It felt as though my heart had been left behind.
At the end of the slope, the water splashed onto our bodies. The towering waves drenched us from head to toe. It was then that I realised the need for a poncho and regretted not wearing one.
I had sat at the end of the boat, which was the worst position because it felt like I would be flung out of the boat any time, when it went down the slope. It was the most thrilling ride that I had ever taken. Nonetheless, I vowed never to take such rides again because it was also a traumatic experience for me.
(342 words)
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