On 8 February 1942, the Japanese troops started heading towards the north-western part of Singapore. They crossed the Johor Straits using rubber boats and rafts. A local Singaporean woman, Azlin, was forced to flee to a small village located at the countryside with her son, Umar for their safety. Their home had been destroyed in a bombing raid and Azlin's husband, Rahman, was pronounced dead during the incident.
By late December, Singapore was no longer impregnable. Japanese troops surprised and overwhelmed the Allies on 11 February, turning Bukit Timah into a killing field. The Japanese managed to take control of a reservoir and supplies left by the British. Two days after the Battle at Bukit Timah, Azlin and her son, Umar, tried to block out the distant sound of gunfire as they sat down to their supper of sweet potatoes and tapioca. They then heard the bombing sound outside their hut, which was horrifying.
Azlin heard the results of battle in Bukit Timah between British and Japanese troops from the radio. She heard that both sides suffered heavy casualties and the British troops were demolished and exhausted throughout the war. Suddenly, there was a knock at the door. After hesitating for several minutes, Azlin opened the door. He saw a British soldier standing outside, carrying another soldier on his back. The soldier spoke to Azlin that both of them had starved for several days and asked her for food. Both mother and son were cold and weary as the soldier looked fierce and stern.
Umar was frightened and wondered what his mother would do. Azlin hesitated for a moment and signaled the soldier to carry his comrade into the hut. She then instructed Umar to pour out the remaining porridge from the pot into a bowl and get some sweet potatoes from the shed.
While eating, the soldier told Azlin about the Japanese's cruelty and offensive. The soldier and his comrades had separated from their battalion and had wandered for four days in the dense forest of Bukit Timah, hiding from the Japanese. They were both hungry and exhausted, and were truly grateful to Azlin's kindness. Soon after dinner, the British soldiers slept overnight in the hut.
"Be careful!" Azlin warned sternly, "I hope you'll be able to win over the Japanese and save the people from poor conditions." The British soldiers promised that they would strive hard to fight against the Japanese and once again, they thanked Azlin and Umar gratefully before leaving.
It was the last time Azlin and Umar would ever see any one of them. They were not sure of whether the two soldiers were still surviving or they had sacrificed during the war. But the only thing they were sure of was the loyalty of the soldiers to their country.
Thursday, August 26, 2010
Monday, August 2, 2010
News Report - Traffic Accident
2 August 2010
TWO YOUNGSTERS DIED IN A HIT-AND-RUN ACCIDENT
By Ler Rou Shyuan
It was supposed to be a restful Sunday for the two youngsters to ride on their motorcycle, going for a movie at AMK Hub, but the bliss turned to distress after a car plunged to the motorcycle, throwing two of them onto the road.
The two victims who were involved in the accident on the evening of 1 August 2010 were hit by a Toyota Corolla at 6.30p.m. They were actually waiting in front of the traffic light at Sultan Road while a car was speeding behind them. The car driver who was not aware of the stopping of vehicles in front of him, plunged straightly to the motorcycle. He was then drove away immediately.
This fatal hit-and-run accident had resulted the deaths of the two youngsters. Both of the victims were found unconscious, lying on the floor when the ambulance arrived at the spot. They were suffered in serious injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene.
Ms. Jane Tan, a 26-year-old kindergarden teacher and an eye-witness of the accident said, "It happened so fast! I saw a car clashing to a motorcycle and the driver drove away immediately after his crime. It was so fast that I couldn't record down the license plate number of his car."
40-year-old, Mr. Ken Lee, one of the paramedics at the scene said that there were streams of blood on the road and he was shocked by what was left of the motorcycle. He also added that the motorcyclist suffered a fractured spine and a broken collarbone, while his pillion suffered arm and skull fracturers. Both of them were died under severe pain.
The police had tried to track down the hit-and-run driver by screening the camera located near the spot and asked the bystanders and eye-witnesses of the accident, but the speed of the car was too fast that its license plate number could not be seen.
Mdm. Moliah Bte Ismail, a 36-year-old housewife who was one of the passengers in one of the cars said, "All I heard was a big bang!" She was generally shocked by the piercing sound of the clashing of vehicles and was shaked when she saw the accident.
Said Commander of Traffic Police, Supt Abdul Rahman: "Hit-and-run is a serious offence which is responsible in resulting the death of the victim. The offender will be dealt severely with heavy penalty. We spare no effort in investigating and arresting hit-and-run drivers. Bystanders are urged to come forward with information regarding the hit-and-run accident.
TWO YOUNGSTERS DIED IN A HIT-AND-RUN ACCIDENT
By Ler Rou Shyuan
It was supposed to be a restful Sunday for the two youngsters to ride on their motorcycle, going for a movie at AMK Hub, but the bliss turned to distress after a car plunged to the motorcycle, throwing two of them onto the road.
The two victims who were involved in the accident on the evening of 1 August 2010 were hit by a Toyota Corolla at 6.30p.m. They were actually waiting in front of the traffic light at Sultan Road while a car was speeding behind them. The car driver who was not aware of the stopping of vehicles in front of him, plunged straightly to the motorcycle. He was then drove away immediately.
This fatal hit-and-run accident had resulted the deaths of the two youngsters. Both of the victims were found unconscious, lying on the floor when the ambulance arrived at the spot. They were suffered in serious injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene.
Ms. Jane Tan, a 26-year-old kindergarden teacher and an eye-witness of the accident said, "It happened so fast! I saw a car clashing to a motorcycle and the driver drove away immediately after his crime. It was so fast that I couldn't record down the license plate number of his car."
40-year-old, Mr. Ken Lee, one of the paramedics at the scene said that there were streams of blood on the road and he was shocked by what was left of the motorcycle. He also added that the motorcyclist suffered a fractured spine and a broken collarbone, while his pillion suffered arm and skull fracturers. Both of them were died under severe pain.
The police had tried to track down the hit-and-run driver by screening the camera located near the spot and asked the bystanders and eye-witnesses of the accident, but the speed of the car was too fast that its license plate number could not be seen.
Mdm. Moliah Bte Ismail, a 36-year-old housewife who was one of the passengers in one of the cars said, "All I heard was a big bang!" She was generally shocked by the piercing sound of the clashing of vehicles and was shaked when she saw the accident.
Said Commander of Traffic Police, Supt Abdul Rahman: "Hit-and-run is a serious offence which is responsible in resulting the death of the victim. The offender will be dealt severely with heavy penalty. We spare no effort in investigating and arresting hit-and-run drivers. Bystanders are urged to come forward with information regarding the hit-and-run accident.
Saturday, May 15, 2010
Earth Day
Earth Day falls on 22nd of April and it is a very important occasion for our school which possesses environment conscious and green motto. All of us were concerned about this event and the school had further publicize the importance of being environment conscious to the whole school on this special day.
Early in the morning, Mdm. Angela Tan had talked about the purpose of celebrating Earth Day and the ways which the school had contributed to help in protecting the earth as well as what we can do to help as an individual. Two upper sec students had presented a powerpoint which showed the importance of protecting our earth and the consequences caused if we failed to do so.
The powerpoint had urged all of us to do our part in protecting our earth and make it a better place to live. It had also showed some shocking pictures which conveyed the consequeces that we had caused currently by our daily activities. The pictures showed people slaugtering poultry. From the powerpoint, I had learnt that killing poultry is actually damaging the earth's ecosystem. The pictures also urged the public to be vegetarian so as to help in protecting the earth.
I had also realised that human's daily activities had actually contributed to the damage of the earth. We may not consider it or think of it as a problem, but since we were being told, we should start to take note from now and try to avoid all these. We have the responsibility to maintain the earth and protect it as it is duty as a human being.
Earth Day is a special occasion when the whole world celebrate the earth that we live on. I am glad that I can live in such a beautiful and magnificent planet!
Sunday, May 9, 2010
Sports Fiesta
This year sport fiesta was held on 9th of April, at Serangoon Stadium. I was unable to attend this annual school event as I was sick on that day. It was such a waste that I could not be at the stadium and could not cheer for my fellow housemates.
According to my classmates, I think the sport fiesta for this year was quite similar as compared to last year. It was held at the same venue, with the same event being organized. The only difference between the two occasion is the activities and games being conducted. This year, we had a new sport event which is the telematch. It is relatively different from other sport games. It required teamwork, perseverance and co-ordination among house members. This had enabled those houses that were skilled in telematch and were not that good in track and field to score well in sport fiesta.
There were many competitiors from our class took part in the sport events. I am proud of them as they had tried their best and put in the best effort. Some of them even won prizes. I am also certainly proud of those who did not manage to win prize but had the courage to take part in the events. From what I was told, Pyros was first, followed by Hydros, Aeros, Voltus and then Terrus.
Being a member of Terrus, I hope my fellow housemates will not be sad or disappointed of the result. Each and every one of the competitors from Terrus had done a good job and I am proud of the courage and attitude they possessed. All of you are the best! I also feel happy to the members of Pyros. They had done extremely well in the events and had proved that Pyros is always vigorous and energetic.
I think every single one of Chong Boonites had enjoyed themselves on that day. I am glad that the occasion was being carried out smoothly without any mishap. I am looking forward to next year's sports fiesta!
According to my classmates, I think the sport fiesta for this year was quite similar as compared to last year. It was held at the same venue, with the same event being organized. The only difference between the two occasion is the activities and games being conducted. This year, we had a new sport event which is the telematch. It is relatively different from other sport games. It required teamwork, perseverance and co-ordination among house members. This had enabled those houses that were skilled in telematch and were not that good in track and field to score well in sport fiesta.
There were many competitiors from our class took part in the sport events. I am proud of them as they had tried their best and put in the best effort. Some of them even won prizes. I am also certainly proud of those who did not manage to win prize but had the courage to take part in the events. From what I was told, Pyros was first, followed by Hydros, Aeros, Voltus and then Terrus.
Being a member of Terrus, I hope my fellow housemates will not be sad or disappointed of the result. Each and every one of the competitors from Terrus had done a good job and I am proud of the courage and attitude they possessed. All of you are the best! I also feel happy to the members of Pyros. They had done extremely well in the events and had proved that Pyros is always vigorous and energetic.
I think every single one of Chong Boonites had enjoyed themselves on that day. I am glad that the occasion was being carried out smoothly without any mishap. I am looking forward to next year's sports fiesta!
Saturday, May 8, 2010
Annual Cross Country
This year cross country falls on 5th of March. It was different from last year as this year we had our run at MacRitchie Reservoir, a relaxing nature reserve. I think it is a more suitable spot for us to have such an event as compared to Nanyang Polytechnic.
MacRitchie Reservoir is very near my house and it is only two bus stops distance. It is convenient for me to go there and I need not to wake up early. When I reached there, I saw many Red Cross cadets at the entrance, guiding the other schoolmates to the assemble spot. I followed the crowd and reached the assemble spot which was mentioned by Mr. Tan earlier during the briefing for cross country. I was glad to see MacRitchie Reservoir as an exquisite place, with clear and tranquil water and rows of trees. The air that I breathe in was refreshing and the place is clean.
We gathered according to our respective classes and we were told that we will run according to level. The upper sec students will run before us as well as the competitors. All of us were excited and could not wait for our turn to run. While waiting for our turn to run, sec two express classes were asked to visit Lin Bo Seng's tomb as a learning resource. After listening to Ms. Sasi 's explanation, I get to know more about this great man and his contributions to Singapore's society. I was certainly admire and respect him.
After that, it was our turn to run. When the teacher blow the whistle, all of us began to run as fast as we could. We put on our strength and started to overtake those in front of us. There were teachers accompanied us running through the long path to look after us. They also encouraged us to keep running and never give up. I was grateful to them as they need to run and take care of us at the same time.
The route was challenging as it was slippery and muddy. It hindered us from running smoothly so as to train our stamina. Although the running journey was difficult, I enjoyed running there as I could appreciate the beauty of the nature while running. There were monkey hanging all over the trees and it looked amusing. I stopped several times along the journey just to catch my breathe. Although I was tired and me legs were pain, I tried my best to run and walk as fast as I could. I had only one desire in my mind: Never give up and I wanted to reach the reaching point as early as I could. By the way, I run with Agnes and we encouraged each other to keep on running.
Before we reached the ending point, we speeded up through the short journey and we ran at our fastest speed so as to finish the route as soon as possible. After we finished the run, I felt relief. I met my friends those who finished earlier than me and we talked about our experiences throughout the run together with our perceptions towards this year cross country. All of us felt good and were satisfied with the run.
After all the fellow schoolmates finished their runs, we had our prize presentation. I was proud to say that there were three of our classmates did our class proud: Xin Yi, Visnu and Jenarth. Xin Yi get in 4th in the lower sec girl category while Jenarth get in 10th in lower sec boy category. Visnu, the superb runner get in 1st as what we expected. I was certainly proud of three of them.
This year cross country was enjoyable and I had learnt a lot from the event. I learnt to persevere and to give the best. I hope next year cross country will also be held at MacRitchie Reservoir.
MacRitchie Reservoir is very near my house and it is only two bus stops distance. It is convenient for me to go there and I need not to wake up early. When I reached there, I saw many Red Cross cadets at the entrance, guiding the other schoolmates to the assemble spot. I followed the crowd and reached the assemble spot which was mentioned by Mr. Tan earlier during the briefing for cross country. I was glad to see MacRitchie Reservoir as an exquisite place, with clear and tranquil water and rows of trees. The air that I breathe in was refreshing and the place is clean.
We gathered according to our respective classes and we were told that we will run according to level. The upper sec students will run before us as well as the competitors. All of us were excited and could not wait for our turn to run. While waiting for our turn to run, sec two express classes were asked to visit Lin Bo Seng's tomb as a learning resource. After listening to Ms. Sasi 's explanation, I get to know more about this great man and his contributions to Singapore's society. I was certainly admire and respect him.
After that, it was our turn to run. When the teacher blow the whistle, all of us began to run as fast as we could. We put on our strength and started to overtake those in front of us. There were teachers accompanied us running through the long path to look after us. They also encouraged us to keep running and never give up. I was grateful to them as they need to run and take care of us at the same time.
The route was challenging as it was slippery and muddy. It hindered us from running smoothly so as to train our stamina. Although the running journey was difficult, I enjoyed running there as I could appreciate the beauty of the nature while running. There were monkey hanging all over the trees and it looked amusing. I stopped several times along the journey just to catch my breathe. Although I was tired and me legs were pain, I tried my best to run and walk as fast as I could. I had only one desire in my mind: Never give up and I wanted to reach the reaching point as early as I could. By the way, I run with Agnes and we encouraged each other to keep on running.
Before we reached the ending point, we speeded up through the short journey and we ran at our fastest speed so as to finish the route as soon as possible. After we finished the run, I felt relief. I met my friends those who finished earlier than me and we talked about our experiences throughout the run together with our perceptions towards this year cross country. All of us felt good and were satisfied with the run.
After all the fellow schoolmates finished their runs, we had our prize presentation. I was proud to say that there were three of our classmates did our class proud: Xin Yi, Visnu and Jenarth. Xin Yi get in 4th in the lower sec girl category while Jenarth get in 10th in lower sec boy category. Visnu, the superb runner get in 1st as what we expected. I was certainly proud of three of them.
This year cross country was enjoyable and I had learnt a lot from the event. I learnt to persevere and to give the best. I hope next year cross country will also be held at MacRitchie Reservoir.
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
Situational Writing - Letter of Complaint
21 April 2010
Mrs. Saraspathy Menon
Principal
Chong Boon Secondary School
Dear Mrs. Menon
FEEDBACK ON STUDENT'S BEHAVIOURS IN THE SCHOOL LIBRARY
My friend and I have been going to the school library lately to do some self-study. However, we are unhappy about a few incidents which took place recently. I am writing to inform you the incidents and I hope you will take action to improve the current situation and ensure the library is a condusive environment for study.
There was this group of students who were rude to the librarians. They talked loudly in the school library and shouted at the librarian when she asked them to low down their voice. One of the boys scolded vulgarities at the librarian. The librarian was angry and threatened to report him to the Discipline Master. However, the boy seems not to be threatened by the librarian and became abusive. They continued to make noise and disturbed us from doing self-study. Personally, I think the boys should be punished for their rude and rowdy behaviours.
Some students actually break the rules. They managed to sneak food in and even spilled their drinks onto the table. The sweet drinks attracted ants and it made the table sticky. It was impossible for us to study there as the table was dirty. I hope you will ensure that pupils observe cleanliness in the library and the library is clean and pleasant all the time.
There was this boy who wore his PE attire into the library. He was soaked in perspiration. This was extremely unhygienic and unhealthy for him as he may catch a cold. This is unpleasant for other users in the library as there may be an odour. I think pupils should not be allowed to enter the school library in PE attire. They should change into their uniforms before entering the library. The library should enforce this rule so that there will be a conducive place for us to focus in our self-study.
Besides that, there was also a group of students playing games on the computers for a very long time. They were engrossed to the online game and had sit in front of the computer for more than two hours. This is an irresponsible act as the computer in the library is supposed to be used by students to do research, not for them to play games. They were misusing the school's facilities and we should not encourage this as online games are addictive. As a school, I think we should prohibit these students from using the computer in library so as to allow those who need it more to use it.
The worst of all was that there were students chasing each other in the library. I could hear them yelling and screaming which was extremely annoying. Me as well as the other users in the library could not concentrate on our self-study as we found it too disturbing. Library is a serious place which supposed to be quiet and tranquil, not a place to have fun. We went there to seek for a conducive environment to study but it had disappointed us greatly. I hope there will be peace and quiet, as it did not use to be like this. I hope the Discipline Department will also take note of the discipline in library as students were badly behaved in library.
Lastly, I hope the school will consider the incidents I had mentioned and take action against it. I wish to see the improvements in the current situation and I am looking forward to a more conducive and noise-free library.
Yours sincerely
Ler Rou Shyuan
Respect Two
Mrs. Saraspathy Menon
Principal
Chong Boon Secondary School
Dear Mrs. Menon
FEEDBACK ON STUDENT'S BEHAVIOURS IN THE SCHOOL LIBRARY
My friend and I have been going to the school library lately to do some self-study. However, we are unhappy about a few incidents which took place recently. I am writing to inform you the incidents and I hope you will take action to improve the current situation and ensure the library is a condusive environment for study.
There was this group of students who were rude to the librarians. They talked loudly in the school library and shouted at the librarian when she asked them to low down their voice. One of the boys scolded vulgarities at the librarian. The librarian was angry and threatened to report him to the Discipline Master. However, the boy seems not to be threatened by the librarian and became abusive. They continued to make noise and disturbed us from doing self-study. Personally, I think the boys should be punished for their rude and rowdy behaviours.
Some students actually break the rules. They managed to sneak food in and even spilled their drinks onto the table. The sweet drinks attracted ants and it made the table sticky. It was impossible for us to study there as the table was dirty. I hope you will ensure that pupils observe cleanliness in the library and the library is clean and pleasant all the time.
There was this boy who wore his PE attire into the library. He was soaked in perspiration. This was extremely unhygienic and unhealthy for him as he may catch a cold. This is unpleasant for other users in the library as there may be an odour. I think pupils should not be allowed to enter the school library in PE attire. They should change into their uniforms before entering the library. The library should enforce this rule so that there will be a conducive place for us to focus in our self-study.
Besides that, there was also a group of students playing games on the computers for a very long time. They were engrossed to the online game and had sit in front of the computer for more than two hours. This is an irresponsible act as the computer in the library is supposed to be used by students to do research, not for them to play games. They were misusing the school's facilities and we should not encourage this as online games are addictive. As a school, I think we should prohibit these students from using the computer in library so as to allow those who need it more to use it.
The worst of all was that there were students chasing each other in the library. I could hear them yelling and screaming which was extremely annoying. Me as well as the other users in the library could not concentrate on our self-study as we found it too disturbing. Library is a serious place which supposed to be quiet and tranquil, not a place to have fun. We went there to seek for a conducive environment to study but it had disappointed us greatly. I hope there will be peace and quiet, as it did not use to be like this. I hope the Discipline Department will also take note of the discipline in library as students were badly behaved in library.
Lastly, I hope the school will consider the incidents I had mentioned and take action against it. I wish to see the improvements in the current situation and I am looking forward to a more conducive and noise-free library.
Yours sincerely
Ler Rou Shyuan
Respect Two
P.E.E.L Structure - Dogs
Dogs have a special and unique relationship with humans. They were the first animals to take up residence with people and were being considered as active participants in human societies. Man used dogs to help them hunt, keeping flocks together and to warn them against approaching enemies. Dogs have played an integral part in our lives and are known for their great devotion towards humans.
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
International Friendship Day - Our School
1) What are the relationships that are important to you within the school context?
Friendships between schoolmates and I are important as I think these are the factors which had brought all of us under one unity as a school as well as leading Chong Boon to become a better school. As a Chong Boonite, I always think that I am part of the school and is certainly proud of it as each and everyone of us make up Chong Boon. Having good relationships with schoolmates lead to a better environment to study and learn. We can learn from each other as well as letting others know what we think.
2) What do you know about the history of your school/CCA?
I know that our school was established since 1994 and it is currently 16-year-old. Chong Boon, a garden of growth is a green school as the school is environmental conscious. Each and every one of us do our part in maintaining the reputation of our school and working hard to make it a better environment to study. Our school's vision " Each of our pupils will be a Thinking and Gracious Citizen" had succeeded in nurturing the pupils and many of our seniors who had graduated are now professionals and we are certainly proud of them. The school is doing its best to ensure that all Chong Boonites possess the values of perseverance, respect, integrity, dedication and excellence.
3) Share a story about your school/CCA.
10th of April ,2010 was a big day for Chong Boon Band as we participated in the SYF Marching Assessment Central Judging 2010 on that day. This was our first time to participate in SYF Marching Assessment and we managed to achieve a merit award. The thing which I would like to emphasize is that I realised that our school band is very different from others. After all the participated bands finished their performances, we were asked to wait outside the stadium before annoucing our result. At that particular time, other school bands looked stress and vexed as they were worrying their results. However, Chong Boon Band seemed to be relaxed and excited. I felt strange to see that my seniors as well as my friends were actually singing happily and were truly enjoying themselves. They seemed to be not nervous at all. The reason why we were so excited not because of we did not concern about the result, in fact, we enjoyed the process we had went through when preparing for the SYF and also the achivements of becoming a more competent musician. Even though we did not get distinction for the SYF Marching Assessment, but I still proud of every single one of the band members. The most exciting part of our journey is when we came together practiced under the hot sun, even under raining!
4) Have the stories you heard from your classmates changed the way you view/feel about your school?
Previously, I heard from my aunt and neighbours that Chong Boon is a neighbourhood school and its standard is low. People may look down upon us if we study in such a school. After joining Chong Boon for two years, I had changed my perspective towards it. Although it is small, with very little enrolment, I felt proud to be one of the Chong Boonite. The teachers were full of enthusiasm and I believed that all teachers in our school are unique. They were patient towards us and helped us in many ways to do well in express stream. I think this would be the benefit of studying in such a neighbourhood school, which you can experience different things and with the full attention of the teachers to us.
Friendships between schoolmates and I are important as I think these are the factors which had brought all of us under one unity as a school as well as leading Chong Boon to become a better school. As a Chong Boonite, I always think that I am part of the school and is certainly proud of it as each and everyone of us make up Chong Boon. Having good relationships with schoolmates lead to a better environment to study and learn. We can learn from each other as well as letting others know what we think.
2) What do you know about the history of your school/CCA?
I know that our school was established since 1994 and it is currently 16-year-old. Chong Boon, a garden of growth is a green school as the school is environmental conscious. Each and every one of us do our part in maintaining the reputation of our school and working hard to make it a better environment to study. Our school's vision " Each of our pupils will be a Thinking and Gracious Citizen" had succeeded in nurturing the pupils and many of our seniors who had graduated are now professionals and we are certainly proud of them. The school is doing its best to ensure that all Chong Boonites possess the values of perseverance, respect, integrity, dedication and excellence.
3) Share a story about your school/CCA.
10th of April ,2010 was a big day for Chong Boon Band as we participated in the SYF Marching Assessment Central Judging 2010 on that day. This was our first time to participate in SYF Marching Assessment and we managed to achieve a merit award. The thing which I would like to emphasize is that I realised that our school band is very different from others. After all the participated bands finished their performances, we were asked to wait outside the stadium before annoucing our result. At that particular time, other school bands looked stress and vexed as they were worrying their results. However, Chong Boon Band seemed to be relaxed and excited. I felt strange to see that my seniors as well as my friends were actually singing happily and were truly enjoying themselves. They seemed to be not nervous at all. The reason why we were so excited not because of we did not concern about the result, in fact, we enjoyed the process we had went through when preparing for the SYF and also the achivements of becoming a more competent musician. Even though we did not get distinction for the SYF Marching Assessment, but I still proud of every single one of the band members. The most exciting part of our journey is when we came together practiced under the hot sun, even under raining!
4) Have the stories you heard from your classmates changed the way you view/feel about your school?
Previously, I heard from my aunt and neighbours that Chong Boon is a neighbourhood school and its standard is low. People may look down upon us if we study in such a school. After joining Chong Boon for two years, I had changed my perspective towards it. Although it is small, with very little enrolment, I felt proud to be one of the Chong Boonite. The teachers were full of enthusiasm and I believed that all teachers in our school are unique. They were patient towards us and helped us in many ways to do well in express stream. I think this would be the benefit of studying in such a neighbourhood school, which you can experience different things and with the full attention of the teachers to us.
Composition - Love
Of all the human emotions, love is the most beautiful and the most controversial. Our lives are occupied by love and everything in life is measured by love. There is a quote which says " If we attain everything in life but failed to attain love and give love, we have failed." From the day a person is born to the day he dies, life seems to be a great journey of giving and receiving love.
There are various types of love, such as maternal love, sibling love, romantic love, self love, love of life, love of money, love of country, love of environment and even devine love. Love means to concern, to care, to relate , and even to sacrifice. In maternal love, we may be sure that all mothers willing to sacrifice their lives for their children. This can be seen as mothers are always patient and affectionate when nurturing their children. Some of them may be strict and stern, but they are actually hiding their love, not to show you that they are actually concern about you so as to avoid lossing dignity. Even animals also demonstrated this great love. It is heartwarming to see animals's maternal behavior.
Self love is refer to self respect, self concern. It can also lead to selfishness. Everyone of us are selfish. We care about ourselves more than others and always wanted the best. It is the various types of love which had combined us as one unity and we are related to each other. Another elusive kind of love seems to be divine love. Religious men and women believe that this is the greatest love of all. Some of them had dedicated to their religious beliefs and were devoted to their gods. We respect our gods in terms of love the divine with whole self and believe in them.
With the whole world engaged in it, in one way or another, it seems to be prevalence but less obvious. I believe that love can be found in everywhere and we have to be generous in giving love and grateful in receiving love. That is what made it beautiful and precious.
There are various types of love, such as maternal love, sibling love, romantic love, self love, love of life, love of money, love of country, love of environment and even devine love. Love means to concern, to care, to relate , and even to sacrifice. In maternal love, we may be sure that all mothers willing to sacrifice their lives for their children. This can be seen as mothers are always patient and affectionate when nurturing their children. Some of them may be strict and stern, but they are actually hiding their love, not to show you that they are actually concern about you so as to avoid lossing dignity. Even animals also demonstrated this great love. It is heartwarming to see animals's maternal behavior.
Self love is refer to self respect, self concern. It can also lead to selfishness. Everyone of us are selfish. We care about ourselves more than others and always wanted the best. It is the various types of love which had combined us as one unity and we are related to each other. Another elusive kind of love seems to be divine love. Religious men and women believe that this is the greatest love of all. Some of them had dedicated to their religious beliefs and were devoted to their gods. We respect our gods in terms of love the divine with whole self and believe in them.
With the whole world engaged in it, in one way or another, it seems to be prevalence but less obvious. I believe that love can be found in everywhere and we have to be generous in giving love and grateful in receiving love. That is what made it beautiful and precious.
Saturday, March 20, 2010
Reflective Summary
Before I do the research, I was totally unaware of the importance of the need to conserve white rhinoceros. I thought that there is a large number of white rhinos remain in the world and it can be easily found in various countries. To me, white rhino is a common type of rhino species and it is same as the widely known black rhino. The only difference between the two rhino species is they have different colour. I thought that they are easily available in elsewhere.
After the research, I realised that there is a great difference between the two types of rhinoceros. Despite of their colour, the black and white rhino are distinguish by the shape of their mouths. White rhinos have broad flat lips for grazing and black rhinos have long pointed lips for eating foliage. The number of white rhino left on the world is rather rare as compare to black rhino.
I have learnt that there are reasons resulting the decimating of the population of white rhino. The main reason is the uncontrolled hunting and poaching done by irresponsible poachers who sell their prey as a source of earning money. The white rhino's horn is relatively valuable which can be made into devices, used as a decorative item, or even made into medicine. These are the reasons why people pursue to hunt for white rhino. Besides that, white rhino is relatively unagressive and is vulnerable to hunt. This had enforced the decline of white rhino.
My perspective had changed after reading the article as I used to think that white rhino is a harmless species which will not affect human activities. After I read the article, I noticed that white rhino is actually a destruction to habitat for farming and settlements. They feed on the crops and stamp on the plowland. This had distroyed the arable plowed by the farmers and had resulted the farmers to consider it as a disaster and wanted to eliminate the species. This had also led to the reduce in the population of white rhino.
My thoughts towards the decline of white rhino is that human is responsible for its decimating population. White rhinos are most likely available at less-developed countries, such as Africa, Kenya, Uganda and Zambia where people in the countries are lack of the knowledge of conserving endangered species. They may think that white rhino is always exist and unaware of the importance of conservation. As a result of their poverty, they intend to poach white rhino and sell it as a way of earning money. This should not be done and it threatened the population of white rhino in the world.
My opinion towards the current situation is that we have to speed up the conservation of white rhino so as to rescue more of this endangered species. I am glad that countries and organisations had put in effort in conserving the species. Conservationists, researchers and concerned individuals had also do their part in advising the public. Their concerted efforts had resulted the success in conserving white rhinos. Continue conservation of white rhino is needed so as to ensure the population of this endangered species will increase.
To improve the current situation, I will do my part by spreading the importance of conserving white rhino to the people around. I will tell them how serious is the current situation and the consequences of the extinction of white rhino. I will show them the pictures and news article of endangered white rhino to enable them to gain awareness of the needs of conservation. I will also encourage people to support the conservation programmes and help to publicize the importance of conserving white rhino.
I suggest that poaching of white rhino have to be banned and law have to be implemented in order to help reduce illegal trade and poaching of rhino's horn. The government should do their part in publicize the importance of conserving white rhino and encourage people to donate money to the respective organisations for successful managing and conserving white rhino.
After the research, I realised that there is a great difference between the two types of rhinoceros. Despite of their colour, the black and white rhino are distinguish by the shape of their mouths. White rhinos have broad flat lips for grazing and black rhinos have long pointed lips for eating foliage. The number of white rhino left on the world is rather rare as compare to black rhino.
I have learnt that there are reasons resulting the decimating of the population of white rhino. The main reason is the uncontrolled hunting and poaching done by irresponsible poachers who sell their prey as a source of earning money. The white rhino's horn is relatively valuable which can be made into devices, used as a decorative item, or even made into medicine. These are the reasons why people pursue to hunt for white rhino. Besides that, white rhino is relatively unagressive and is vulnerable to hunt. This had enforced the decline of white rhino.
My perspective had changed after reading the article as I used to think that white rhino is a harmless species which will not affect human activities. After I read the article, I noticed that white rhino is actually a destruction to habitat for farming and settlements. They feed on the crops and stamp on the plowland. This had distroyed the arable plowed by the farmers and had resulted the farmers to consider it as a disaster and wanted to eliminate the species. This had also led to the reduce in the population of white rhino.
My thoughts towards the decline of white rhino is that human is responsible for its decimating population. White rhinos are most likely available at less-developed countries, such as Africa, Kenya, Uganda and Zambia where people in the countries are lack of the knowledge of conserving endangered species. They may think that white rhino is always exist and unaware of the importance of conservation. As a result of their poverty, they intend to poach white rhino and sell it as a way of earning money. This should not be done and it threatened the population of white rhino in the world.
My opinion towards the current situation is that we have to speed up the conservation of white rhino so as to rescue more of this endangered species. I am glad that countries and organisations had put in effort in conserving the species. Conservationists, researchers and concerned individuals had also do their part in advising the public. Their concerted efforts had resulted the success in conserving white rhinos. Continue conservation of white rhino is needed so as to ensure the population of this endangered species will increase.
To improve the current situation, I will do my part by spreading the importance of conserving white rhino to the people around. I will tell them how serious is the current situation and the consequences of the extinction of white rhino. I will show them the pictures and news article of endangered white rhino to enable them to gain awareness of the needs of conservation. I will also encourage people to support the conservation programmes and help to publicize the importance of conserving white rhino.
I suggest that poaching of white rhino have to be banned and law have to be implemented in order to help reduce illegal trade and poaching of rhino's horn. The government should do their part in publicize the importance of conserving white rhino and encourage people to donate money to the respective organisations for successful managing and conserving white rhino.
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
Reflective journal 3: Conservation of endangered white rhinoceros
Many southern white rhino are now concentrated within protected areas such as fenced sanctuaries, conservancies, rhino conservation areas and intensive protection zones. Effective management strategies have resulted in surplus animals being translocated to set up new populations within and outside the species’ former range. In a number of countries, populations are now managed by both the state and the private sector, increasing their long-term security.Selling limited sport hunting of surplus males, for example, attracts large revenues and powerful incentives for private sector conservation, and generates much needed funds to help pay the high cost of successfully monitoring, protecting and managing rhino had done to preserve the conservation of white rhinoceros. Domestic anti-trade measures and legislation were also implemented in the 1990s to help reduce illegal trade. Some game managers immobilize white rhinos and remove their horns to deter poachers.
There are a number of regional and continental African rhino conservation initiatives that advise on or support effective conservation programmes. These include the IUCN SSC’s African Rhino Specialist Group, the SADC Rhino Management and Rhino Recovery Groups, the Rhino and Elephant Security Group and the SADC Regional Programme for Rhino Conservation. Thanks to the concerted efforts of conservationists, researchers and concerned individuals, particularly in South Africa, southern white rhinos have recovered from just a single population of between 20 and 50 animals in 1895 to about 17,500 today, with an additional 750 animals in captive breeding institutions worldwide, and are now the most abundant kind of rhino in the world. Rescued from near extinction a century ago, this subspecies stands as one of the world's greatest conservation success stories. Nevertheless, poaching pressure remains an ever-present threat and, with 99% of all southern white rhinos occurring in only four countries, the subspecies is still vulnerable and we cannot become complacent about its conservation.
Sadly, the outlook for the northern white rhino doesn’t look so bright. The Garamba project had managed to conserve the population at about 30 rhinos from the late 1980’s up to 2003, but an upsurge in poaching resulted in it declining to only 4 animals in 2006. If the northern white rhino has now become extinct in the wild, its survival may now depend upon the successful breeding of the small number of rhinos held at Dvur Kralove Zoo in the Czech Republic.
http://www.arkive.org/white-rhinoceros/ceratotherium-simum/info.html
My reflection:
From the article, I had recognised the effort dedicated by countries as well as organisations to help in conserving the population of white rhinoceros. The effort can be seen from the setting of conservancies, rhino conservation areas and fenced sanctuaries to fully protect the endangered rhino species. Organisations had also generated funds to raise money to pay for the cost required for successful monitoring and managing white rhinoceros. This will provide a better condition for the white rhinos as well as improving the diet and services.
Law and anti-trade measures were also implemented to help reduce illegal trade and the poaching of rhino's horn. Offenders will be executed punnishments such as fine or imprisonment. This is to alert the poachers from continuing poaching rhino. Conservationists, reseachers and concerned individuals had do their part in advising the public and supporting conservation programmes. Their concerted efforts had resulted the success in conserving white rhinos through the increasing population of the species. Continue conservation of white rhino is needed so as to ensure this endangered species will remain in large number in the world.
In order to make the measures more effective, the government of less-developed countries should also do their parts in publicizing the importance of conserving white rhino to the people in their countries. As an individual conservationist, we should also help the situation by visiting these countries and persuade the people to avoid poaching. We should let them know about the current situation and tell them what shoud they do.
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Reflective journal 2: Articles on white rhinoceros
White Rhinos are divided into two distinct subspecies, the Northern White Rhino and the Southern White Rhino. The Southern White Rhino is the least endangered of the living kinds of rhino, with a population of about 17,500, while the Northern White Rhino is feared extinct in the wild, as reported on June 17, 2008, the remaining Northern White Rhinos in the world were feared to have been killed for their horns by poachers.The Southern White Rhino was considered extinct (due to poaching) until 1895, when a small population of less than 100 individuals was discovered in South Africa. White Rhinos are confined to private ranches and heavily protected areas; however, poaching remains a threat. Nearly all of the White Rhinos are located in South Africa. The WWF also reports that small populations have been re-introduced to Botswana, Namibia, Swaziland, Zimbabwe, Kenya, Zambia, and Cote d'Ivoire. Recently, a Southern white rhino was born in Uganda.
The White Rhino has two horns comprised of compressed keratin - basically hair and fingernail material. The White Rhino is actually not white in color; the name is thought to be a result of mistaking the Afrikaans word "weit" (meaning "wide") for "white." The White Rhino is grey, although he or she often looks brown due to being covered in mud after wallowing.
The White Rhino is most readily identified by its square lip, and is also known as the Square-Lipped Rhinoceros. The square lip is used for grazing on grasses. While looking at the rhino's head, you will see eyelashes and a little bit of hair on the ears. The other area where the White Rhino has hair is the tip of the tail.
Like all rhinos, the White Rhino is an odd-toed ungulate, having three toes - each with a sturdy hoof-like nail. Also in common with other rhinos is a superb sense of hearing, keen sense of smell - but relatively poor eyesight. The White Rhino, along with the roughly equal-sized Indian Rhino, is the largest species of land mammal after the elephant.
http://www.savingrhinos.org/White-Rhino.html
My reflection:
From the article, I realised that there is actually two types of white rhinos, namely northern and southern white rhinos. The remaining population of the white rhino in the world was rather rare. Most of them can be found in South Africa, with a small population in Kenya, Botswana, Zambia and Uganda. I felt interesting to read a fun fact regarding the colour of the white rhino, which is grey, not white.
I learnt that the white rhino can be identified by its square lips, they are also known as the 'square-lipped rhinoceros'. The square lip is used for grazing on grasses. From this, I knew that the white rhinos have special body features to help them function. White rhino is being considered as an odd-toed ungulate. This is because it consists of three toes which look like nail. They have a good sense of hearing and smelling, but poor eyesight. I was surprised when it says the white rhino is actually the second largest land mammal.
From the website, I had also learnt about the difference between black and white rhino. They are not really differentiate by colour, but the shapes of their mouths. White rhinos have broad flat lips for grazing while black rhinos have long pointed lips for eating foliage. White rhino is normally doubled the size of a black rhino. I felt interesting to know all these information regarding of white rhino. I had gained lots of knowledge and became more familiar with this species after reading it.
Saturday, March 6, 2010
Reflective journal 1: Endangered white rhinoceros
By 1895, the white rhinoceros was considered extinct throughout its African range; however there was a small population of 20 to 50 animals that was still living in the Umfolozi region of South Africa. Rhino populations were decimated by uncontrolled hunting and poaching during the colonial period and second to that was the destruction of habitat for farming and settlements. Farmers considered all rhinos as pests that needed to be eliminated. Here are some of the reasons for the dramatic decline in white rhino populations:Hunting. Uncontrolled hunting took a heavy toll on all the rhino populations and other big game during the colonial period throughout Africa.White rhinos were already decimated when Theodore Roosevelt went Africa with 600 porters and professional hunters in the early 1900s to collect specimens for museums in the United States. They killed over 500 animals and shipped their heads and skins home. Soon after, the Prince of Wales went on an extensive hunting safari to Africa, which popularized safari hunting even more. And in Kenya, the rail line from the coast to Nairobi was completed making big game more accessible to hunting expeditions. Safari hunting became the rage throughout Africa. In the eastern African countries the black rhinos suffered heavy losses.
Horn. Rhino horn was used as to make ornamental drinking cups in China which could detect poisons. Poisoning was an often used non-bloody way of getting rid of your rivals or enemies; therefore it was a good idea if you had some way of detecting it in your own drink. Poisons used at the time were strong alkaloids and are thought to react with the keratin and gelatin that the rhino horn is made from, producing effervescent bubbles. The cups were used in Muslim, Hindu, Buddhist and Christian cultures from Central Africa to China. In Africa the main centers for production of cups was in Sudan and Ethiopia.
There were many other things that were carved from rhino horns as ornamental art such as bowls, spoons, brush pots for artists, netsuke (mens kimono fastener) in Japan, the handles of canes, boxes, jewelry and elaborate carvings. The 1800s was a major export period for rhino horn and items can still be found in various antique shops throughout Europes major cities and in New York. Prices in these antique shops range from about $900 to $5,000 for ornamental objects made of rhino horn.
Dagger Handles. The Jambiya or dagger with a carved handle is worn by all men and boys over 11 years of age in Yemen and in a number of the other Gulf Countries. The jambiya with a carved handle of rhino horn carries the greatest cultural significance and is a sign of great prestige. This has been the most enduring ornamental use of rhino horn. When carved is has an amber translucency that improves with handling, developing a special patina over time, unlike other materials that deteriorate with age. It is this quality that has kept rhino horn on the top of the most wanted list. The most skilled carvers of rhino horn are in Yemen. Even though dagger handles have been a part of Gulf culture for a very long time, it was the discovery of huge oil field in the Middle East along with the vast wealth it created, that drove the demand. There was a 20-fold rise in the price of rhino horn and had devastating effects, especially on black rhino populations. During the 1970s almost 40% of all rhino horn on the world market was imported to Northern Yemen. In 1978 a top quality hand carved jambiya sold for $12,000(US).
The oil price collapse in the mid-1980s, combined with cultural priorities and the government instituting high penalties for the use of rhino horn demand has lessened. The government of Yemen tried unsuccessfully to halt the trade in rhino horn beginning in 1982. It wasnt until Yemen eventually signed on as a party to CITES in 1997, combined with and the Grand Mufti issuing a Fatwa (an Islamic edict), saying it was against the will of Islam to kill rhinos in for dagger handles that things changed dramatically. Better protection against poaching in the protected parks has also helped reduce rhino horn trade, but it has not stopped. As long as poachers still have access to the rhinos in poorly protected parks and a wealthy buyer on the other end the slaughter will continue. Today, most carved handles are made from cheaper alternative materials such as water buffalo horn. A very good synthetic rhino horn product was developed, but it is very expensive alternative.
Medicine. It is important to note that contrary to Western belief, rhino horn is not used as an aphrodisiac. It did find limited use as such in the Gujarat province of Northern India but today because of bans and the high price, demand is down.
The most significant threat today can be taken in 1993 of TCM practitioners, 60% stocked horn. Mostly it is the horn that is used, but also blood, urine, bones and dung have been utilized.
http://www.honoluluzoo.org/white_rhinoceros.htm
My reflection:
After reading the article, I found out that there were several factors which had resulted the decline of white rhinoceros. This includes incontrolled hunting and poaching of white rhinoceros which were done by people who were irresponsible and wanted to use it as a source of earning money. The white rhinoceros is particularly vulnerable to hunting, because it is relatively unaggressive and occurs in herds.
There was only a small population of white rhinoceros remain in the world. The species is rare and I found that the conservation of white rhinoceros is needed in order to make sure that this species will not extinct in one day and the subsequent generations will be able to recognise them. Until today, the rhino population is still decimating which I think the public should do their part and completely ban poaching white rhinoceros.
The main reason which had resulted the decline of white rhino is the people living in less-developed countries who are lack of knowledge and do not aware of the importance of conserving engangered animals. They consider that poaching white rhino is a way of earning money. I think we should correct their thoughts and let them realise the mistakes they had made by explaining the concept of conserving white rhino to them.
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
Total Defence Day
We celebrated this year Total Defence Day on 12th of February, before the Gong Xi-Deepa-Raya concert. This was the second year I celebrated Total Defence Day in Singapore. I realised that total defence is a main issue and it is necessary. Total defence comprises five defences, which are psychological defence, social defence, civil defence, economic defence and military defence. Each of them played an important part in defending Singapore.
On Friday morning, the first activity was to read the memoirs of Singapore's Mentor Minister, Mr Lee Kuan Yew. He talked about the time when Japanese conquered Singapore and how they tortured the local. The Japanese were cruel and ferocious in forcing people to follow their rules. They wanted the complete authorities to rule Singapore, which had resulted the difficulties of Singaporean's life at that period of time. Many Singaporeans were killed or being tortured to death. After reading the passage, I began to realise the importance of total defence. Total defence is important in protecting our nation. We need to have the spirit of total defence so as to defend Singapore from enemy attacks.
We were also being instructed to visit the Total Defence trail which was presented by the uniform groups, including NCC, NPCC and Red Cross. They had demonstrated what part did they played in defending Singapore. I had gained a lot of knowledge through the trail.
We had the food rationing exercise before the end of the event. Each of us was given a bun with a bottle of mineral water. The purpose of this exercise was to let us have an idea of what difficulty we will be facing when there is a natural disaster or war. This was to prepare us for the awareness when we encounter problems.
Total defence was important in maintaining Singapore's security and also uniting people to defend Singapore.
On Friday morning, the first activity was to read the memoirs of Singapore's Mentor Minister, Mr Lee Kuan Yew. He talked about the time when Japanese conquered Singapore and how they tortured the local. The Japanese were cruel and ferocious in forcing people to follow their rules. They wanted the complete authorities to rule Singapore, which had resulted the difficulties of Singaporean's life at that period of time. Many Singaporeans were killed or being tortured to death. After reading the passage, I began to realise the importance of total defence. Total defence is important in protecting our nation. We need to have the spirit of total defence so as to defend Singapore from enemy attacks.
We were also being instructed to visit the Total Defence trail which was presented by the uniform groups, including NCC, NPCC and Red Cross. They had demonstrated what part did they played in defending Singapore. I had gained a lot of knowledge through the trail.
We had the food rationing exercise before the end of the event. Each of us was given a bun with a bottle of mineral water. The purpose of this exercise was to let us have an idea of what difficulty we will be facing when there is a natural disaster or war. This was to prepare us for the awareness when we encounter problems.
Total defence was important in maintaining Singapore's security and also uniting people to defend Singapore.
Chinese New Year&Deepavali&Hari Raya Celebrations (NE)
On 12th of February, we celebrated Gong Xi-Deepa-Raya as a school. It was unique to celebrate these three greatest festivals of Chinese, Malay and Indian altogether. There was a concert formed up by the performances of different races in the hall. All the Chong Boonites together with the school staffs gathered in the hall to celebrate this annual event.
The purpose of having this celebration was to demonstrate the racial harmony in our school as well as in our nation. Since Singapore is a multi-racial country, we live in harmony with other races and are keen to celebrate other races' festivals. This is important as it helps us to know more about the culture of other races.
The concert was divided into three categories, which consist of Malay traditional dance, Indian cultural dance and Chinese modern dance. There was also lion dance performance in the concert. The performance brought vitality and bless to all of us and the lion was gratifying which made us laughed in delight. Besides that, the Chinese modern dance was incredibly well-performed. The dancers danced in enthusiasm and was well-rehearsed. The dance they performed was full of energy. The Malay dancers had performed their culture dance elegantly. Their movement were graceful and the dancers had showed the dignity of their culture dance.
Lastly, we have the Indian cultural dance members to perform the Indian dance. The costumes of the Indian dancers were incredibly unique. It consists of beads and golden rings which had displayed the splendour of Indian culture. The Indian dancers performed in a wild and vigorous manner. The climax of the concert was the dance performed by the teachers. Teachers were dressed in costumes of different races and they performed enthusiastically. All of us were impressed by them and they brought laughter and joyous to this special festival.
I enjoyed the concert very much and was truly engrossed to every performances that were performed. I am looking forward to next year celebration and I hope it will as spectacular as this year.
The purpose of having this celebration was to demonstrate the racial harmony in our school as well as in our nation. Since Singapore is a multi-racial country, we live in harmony with other races and are keen to celebrate other races' festivals. This is important as it helps us to know more about the culture of other races.
The concert was divided into three categories, which consist of Malay traditional dance, Indian cultural dance and Chinese modern dance. There was also lion dance performance in the concert. The performance brought vitality and bless to all of us and the lion was gratifying which made us laughed in delight. Besides that, the Chinese modern dance was incredibly well-performed. The dancers danced in enthusiasm and was well-rehearsed. The dance they performed was full of energy. The Malay dancers had performed their culture dance elegantly. Their movement were graceful and the dancers had showed the dignity of their culture dance.
Lastly, we have the Indian cultural dance members to perform the Indian dance. The costumes of the Indian dancers were incredibly unique. It consists of beads and golden rings which had displayed the splendour of Indian culture. The Indian dancers performed in a wild and vigorous manner. The climax of the concert was the dance performed by the teachers. Teachers were dressed in costumes of different races and they performed enthusiastically. All of us were impressed by them and they brought laughter and joyous to this special festival.
I enjoyed the concert very much and was truly engrossed to every performances that were performed. I am looking forward to next year celebration and I hope it will as spectacular as this year.
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
Growth Day @ Sentosa Beach Fiesta
This year we celebrated our annual Growth Day differently. We celebrated it outdoor with the public and it was a meaningful and enjoyable event. The venue of the Growth Day event is Siloso beach at Sentosa.
There was a carnival organized by ITE students and we were invited to took part in their carnival. There were more than 30 game stalls and everyone of them were incharged by two or three ITE students. The games were designed by the students and all of them were challenging. The ITE students demonstrated their innovative and creativity through the idea they presented in their games. I was amazed by the perseverance they had demonstrated towards their work.
Everyone of us were given 12 coupons to try all the games and there were prizes for the winners who managed to meet the target. The games had challenged our ability to balance ourselves and the accuracy of meeting target. I was able to recognise my strengths and weaknesses through the games. I had learnt the spirit of never give up through the activity.
I believed that all the Chong boonites had grown a lot after participating in the carnival. The carnival had changed my perspective towards the ITE students. What I had realised was their enthusiasm and integrity. They were pretty nice and friendly.
There was a carnival organized by ITE students and we were invited to took part in their carnival. There were more than 30 game stalls and everyone of them were incharged by two or three ITE students. The games were designed by the students and all of them were challenging. The ITE students demonstrated their innovative and creativity through the idea they presented in their games. I was amazed by the perseverance they had demonstrated towards their work.
Everyone of us were given 12 coupons to try all the games and there were prizes for the winners who managed to meet the target. The games had challenged our ability to balance ourselves and the accuracy of meeting target. I was able to recognise my strengths and weaknesses through the games. I had learnt the spirit of never give up through the activity.
I believed that all the Chong boonites had grown a lot after participating in the carnival. The carnival had changed my perspective towards the ITE students. What I had realised was their enthusiasm and integrity. They were pretty nice and friendly.
English journal writing: My personal aspirations & target setting for 2010
Starting from 2010, I had become a secondary two student. This means that I was no longer the youngest in the school and also had grown up. I was both excited and nervous for my new school's life.
Last year was my first year to study in Singapore. I had gained both excitement and loneliness. I had left my parents who are currently having their business in Malaysia, to stay in Singapore with my sister. Luckily, I have the company of my sister which is a great assurance to me. To me, Singapore is a wonderful place to learn and gain knowledge. I truly enjoy studying here.
This year will be a tough year as there will be streaming exam to determine which class I will be going next year. One of my aspiration is to do well in this streaming exam. I hoped that I will be able to achieve good results and build up good character. My goal is to improve myself to be a responsible student, a trusted friend, an obedient daughter and also a understanding sister. I wished to have good attitude and not to disappoint my parents.
I used to be rebellious when I was in primary school. I hurt my parents badly and I felt regret towards them. In order to gratify my parents, I had to work hard and made my parents feel proud to have me as a daughter. As the youngest in my family, I used to rely on my sister greatly. In year 2010, I wished to be more independent and not to let others worry of me.
Lastly, I hoped I will be able to cope with my studies and also my classmates. I am looking forward to a joyful and delight secondary two life.
Last year was my first year to study in Singapore. I had gained both excitement and loneliness. I had left my parents who are currently having their business in Malaysia, to stay in Singapore with my sister. Luckily, I have the company of my sister which is a great assurance to me. To me, Singapore is a wonderful place to learn and gain knowledge. I truly enjoy studying here.
This year will be a tough year as there will be streaming exam to determine which class I will be going next year. One of my aspiration is to do well in this streaming exam. I hoped that I will be able to achieve good results and build up good character. My goal is to improve myself to be a responsible student, a trusted friend, an obedient daughter and also a understanding sister. I wished to have good attitude and not to disappoint my parents.
I used to be rebellious when I was in primary school. I hurt my parents badly and I felt regret towards them. In order to gratify my parents, I had to work hard and made my parents feel proud to have me as a daughter. As the youngest in my family, I used to rely on my sister greatly. In year 2010, I wished to be more independent and not to let others worry of me.
Lastly, I hoped I will be able to cope with my studies and also my classmates. I am looking forward to a joyful and delight secondary two life.
Personal recount: Write about a time when you were caught cheating and were punnished in front of the class.
Everyone in the world think of themselves as reasonably honest. In fact, all of us had gone through the experience of cheating. Despite of how serious the offence is and whatever reasons or excuses we may have for it, we had did it unintentionally.
Everyone does cheat, no matter how law-abiding you are. I was also not an exception and I cheated others before. When I was in primary school, I hate math. Math is a troublesome subject with full of numbers and formula. I was totally not understand the mathematical terms taught by teacher. Everytime before exam, I had to memorise all the mathematical formula in order to answer the maths questions. It was a difficulty to me and was time-consuming. I hate doing this!
It was the end of my primary five, and I had not prepared for my end-of-year examination. As I studied last minute, I did not have the time to memorise the math formula or even read through the notes which had given by my math teacher. I was panicking and was afraid of failing math. At that time, an immoral idea passed through my mind: cheating. I decided to slip into the Head of Department's room and have a glance of the questions which will be tested during exam. As I know, the question papers were always be placed inside the black cardboard in HOD room. My dilemma keeps pulling me backwards and persuades me to shut off the thoughts, but my leg just could not stop and eventually led me to the HOD room.
I was stunned when I reached the door. My heard was pumping fast and I felt my leg trembling. This was the first time I did this and was very nervous. Finally, I approached to the handle of the door and entered the room. I felt relief that Mrs. Lee was not around and there was no one inside the HOD room. Immediately, I went across to the black cardboard and opened it. As I looked down, I saw a pile of paper with a hand-written list of exam questions and answers on it. I thought quickly: I was not doing something that is criminal. I just want to take a look at the answer. This is the first and also the last time I cheat. I promise I will not do this again. After consoling myself, quickly I memorised a couple. Thinking that I was undetected, I put back the answer script and left the room.
Well, justice was done. My criminal act was witnessed by my teacher. She saw me walking out from the HOD room stealthily and when she entered the room, she saw that the cardboard was left opened. She presumed that I had cheated and ran to my class to call me out. I approached her gingerly, trembling with fear. She told the whole class the irresponsible act I had done. Her words were like a thunderbolt out of a clear blue sky. I stared at her dumbfounded. I couldn't believe that there was someone who had witnessed the cheating process! I could hear the giggles and murmurs of my classmates resounding through the entire class.
I was in disgrace and I shifted my eyes away from meeting anyone else's. Seething with anger, Mrs. Lee announced that I will be penalized for not seating for the math exam and I get a zero. An eerie silence now permeated the classroom. I felt naked and vulnerable as I didn't know that cheating is such a serious offence. I begged Mrs. Lee for giving me a chance, but she walked away in disappointment. I was in great shame and not dare to look up at others' faces.
Everyone does cheat, no matter how law-abiding you are. I was also not an exception and I cheated others before. When I was in primary school, I hate math. Math is a troublesome subject with full of numbers and formula. I was totally not understand the mathematical terms taught by teacher. Everytime before exam, I had to memorise all the mathematical formula in order to answer the maths questions. It was a difficulty to me and was time-consuming. I hate doing this!
It was the end of my primary five, and I had not prepared for my end-of-year examination. As I studied last minute, I did not have the time to memorise the math formula or even read through the notes which had given by my math teacher. I was panicking and was afraid of failing math. At that time, an immoral idea passed through my mind: cheating. I decided to slip into the Head of Department's room and have a glance of the questions which will be tested during exam. As I know, the question papers were always be placed inside the black cardboard in HOD room. My dilemma keeps pulling me backwards and persuades me to shut off the thoughts, but my leg just could not stop and eventually led me to the HOD room.
I was stunned when I reached the door. My heard was pumping fast and I felt my leg trembling. This was the first time I did this and was very nervous. Finally, I approached to the handle of the door and entered the room. I felt relief that Mrs. Lee was not around and there was no one inside the HOD room. Immediately, I went across to the black cardboard and opened it. As I looked down, I saw a pile of paper with a hand-written list of exam questions and answers on it. I thought quickly: I was not doing something that is criminal. I just want to take a look at the answer. This is the first and also the last time I cheat. I promise I will not do this again. After consoling myself, quickly I memorised a couple. Thinking that I was undetected, I put back the answer script and left the room.
Well, justice was done. My criminal act was witnessed by my teacher. She saw me walking out from the HOD room stealthily and when she entered the room, she saw that the cardboard was left opened. She presumed that I had cheated and ran to my class to call me out. I approached her gingerly, trembling with fear. She told the whole class the irresponsible act I had done. Her words were like a thunderbolt out of a clear blue sky. I stared at her dumbfounded. I couldn't believe that there was someone who had witnessed the cheating process! I could hear the giggles and murmurs of my classmates resounding through the entire class.
I was in disgrace and I shifted my eyes away from meeting anyone else's. Seething with anger, Mrs. Lee announced that I will be penalized for not seating for the math exam and I get a zero. An eerie silence now permeated the classroom. I felt naked and vulnerable as I didn't know that cheating is such a serious offence. I begged Mrs. Lee for giving me a chance, but she walked away in disappointment. I was in great shame and not dare to look up at others' faces.
Write about a time when you witnessed someone being punnished publicly
It was a cloudy Monday morning. The school was in solemn mood. An eerie silence permeated the whole school. All of us looked serious and attentive. In front of the parade square, there was a boy standing there, who looked flustered and fearful. He shifted his eyes away from meeting anyone else's, and his eyes fixed on the ground. He remained emotionless while waiting for the discipline master to call out his name.
"Lee Kok Keong!" yelled Mr. Tan at the top of his voice. The boy approached him gingerly, with his leg trembling in terror. The boy walked to the centre of the parade square and back-faced the school. Mr. Tan raised up a cane and whipped on the boy. I could hear the groan of the boy which made me feel pity. The sound of the flog with a whip was clearly heard and it was fearful. I could hear the whispers and screams of my schoolmates together with the sighed of the teachers resounding through the entire school.
Tears streaked down the boy's cheeks. His nose and eyes were drenched and he wiped it with the back of his sleeve. This made us feel pathetic towards him. Slowly, the boy shuffled his feet and walked up to the stage. He remained tongue-tied silence for a few minutes and finally, he blurted out, '' I feel sorry for the mistakes I had made. I had did a shame to the school and I was truly regret of it. " The school remained painful silence after hearing this. With tears strangling his voice, he choked out, " Please forgive me and give me a second chance. I promised I will not do this again!"
This public punishment was resulted by the inconsiderate act of the boy. He used to play truant, steal things, smoke and even take drugs. He had neglected his studies and remained staying around with gangsters all the time. He was rebellious and had hurt his parents greatly. The teachers and principal tried hard to pull him back to the correct path, but he ignored their advices and continued making mistake. His rebellious and impulsive manner had resulted the death of his father who had suffered heart disease for a long period of time.
There was nothing the school could do for him, except giving him frequent counselling which was totally useless to him and some serious punishments, such as public canning. This was the second time he being canned publicly. No matter how much advises the teachers had given and the punishments applied to him, he still continue to offend the school's rule. The strokes that he deserved can only apply for a few days. Few days later, he will forget the pain and repeat his offences.
Looking at him made me feel pathetic. We are now still teenager, we still have a long way to go. I hoped the boy will realise his mistake in one day and have a bright future.
"Lee Kok Keong!" yelled Mr. Tan at the top of his voice. The boy approached him gingerly, with his leg trembling in terror. The boy walked to the centre of the parade square and back-faced the school. Mr. Tan raised up a cane and whipped on the boy. I could hear the groan of the boy which made me feel pity. The sound of the flog with a whip was clearly heard and it was fearful. I could hear the whispers and screams of my schoolmates together with the sighed of the teachers resounding through the entire school.
Tears streaked down the boy's cheeks. His nose and eyes were drenched and he wiped it with the back of his sleeve. This made us feel pathetic towards him. Slowly, the boy shuffled his feet and walked up to the stage. He remained tongue-tied silence for a few minutes and finally, he blurted out, '' I feel sorry for the mistakes I had made. I had did a shame to the school and I was truly regret of it. " The school remained painful silence after hearing this. With tears strangling his voice, he choked out, " Please forgive me and give me a second chance. I promised I will not do this again!"
This public punishment was resulted by the inconsiderate act of the boy. He used to play truant, steal things, smoke and even take drugs. He had neglected his studies and remained staying around with gangsters all the time. He was rebellious and had hurt his parents greatly. The teachers and principal tried hard to pull him back to the correct path, but he ignored their advices and continued making mistake. His rebellious and impulsive manner had resulted the death of his father who had suffered heart disease for a long period of time.
There was nothing the school could do for him, except giving him frequent counselling which was totally useless to him and some serious punishments, such as public canning. This was the second time he being canned publicly. No matter how much advises the teachers had given and the punishments applied to him, he still continue to offend the school's rule. The strokes that he deserved can only apply for a few days. Few days later, he will forget the pain and repeat his offences.
Looking at him made me feel pathetic. We are now still teenager, we still have a long way to go. I hoped the boy will realise his mistake in one day and have a bright future.
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