Just Another Day

It has been a long while...

2009-03-03T10:51:00.001-08:00

Hi !

It has been quite a while since I wrote.

I have been terribly busy with school work.

Primary 6^Commitment(2008) did well for their
P.S.L.E. I am really proud of them. I hope they are enjoying
themselves in Secondary school.

Some did visit me in January this year. They looked so
grown up. I am glad that I was given the opportunity to be part of their lives.

They must be busy with school work!

I have a new class this year. I have to set new
rules, throw away my expectations as these
pupils don't know me.

I need to go now, will write more.

Curriculum Cycle(Part 1)

2008-01-16T04:30:00.000-08:00

Hi it has been quite a while since I posted on the blog.

Just wanted to share what I did in class and thus far
has been quite successful. I dare not say it is very successful
because I have not read the students essays.

The Curriculum Cycle was first introduced to Singapore when
MOE introduced the 2001 EL Syllabus. It is based on Halliday's
theory of Functional Grammar. According to Halliday, language
is learnt based on its function/s. There is a Theme, Rheme and
Subject Complement/ Object and Direct Object in a sentence.
According to him, if learners know the function of the different
part of the language, they would understand better.

Let's get back to Curiculum Cycle. It was started by Beverly
Deriawanka (an Australian). She developed an improvised
version of Halliday's Functional Grammar. Like Halliday, Beverly
also believed that in learning a language, learners need to know its
function/s. She came up with a simplified version of Functional
Grammar and this is taught through the Curriculum Cycle.

There are 3 main Phases of Curriculum Cycle :
a. Exploring the genre
b. Joint Construction of the text
c. Independent Construction of the text.

Unlike Halliday, Deriawanka believed that learning the language
can be further enhanced through text types. Each text type has
its features and grammatical structures. In total there are 8 text
types.

Enough of theories... I introduced to the students the features and
grammatical structures of a narrative. Gave them examples to look at.
In the 1st phase of Curriculum Cycle...
Teachers are supposed to get the students to know the genre through
watching a video. I showed my pupils a short video on 'youtube'...
together students identified the structure of a narrative based on the picture.
Students then write out the story.

Students enjoyed it. They had never thought that an advertisement has
any educational value. I will continue about what I have taught my kids
tomorrow... I am feeling sleepy. I will sleep now because I need to be up
in an hours time to prepare for school.

Adious....

Trip To Perth

2007-12-30T01:05:00.000-08:00

Hi all!

Trip to Perth was great. Achieved the objective of the trip.
However, I felt it could be better.
In my opinion, the students really need to be more pro-active
in their approach towards learning.

Students need to ask more questions so that they would know more
and not just accept what is told to them.

I guess for the students to achieve this... it would take alot of time, effort
and exposure on the part of the teacher and students.

As a teacher, I realised... students need constant reminders and encouragement.
Modelling to them on how to behave is pivotal. Many a times, it is not that the students
don't want to but more they do not know how to. I truly believe that as teachers it is important
to model and not assume that students know how and what to do in different situations.

I will be posting some pictures later. Got to go now!

Trip to Perth

2007-11-25T01:59:00.000-08:00

It is me again!

Tonight at about ten thirty, will be leaving for Perth.

I will be bringing 26 pupils to Perth. It is a trip that promises
lots of fun.

I had packed my bags to the brim with lots of first aid stuff...
Ironed Adam's clothes and Shaheed's uniform.

I am in between cleaning the house and getting ready.

I have to go now! Will write soon about Perth!

Free from Exams

2007-11-21T17:22:00.001-08:00

Hi there!!

The examinations are finally over for me.

That's a big weight off my small shoulders.
Managed to answer the questions:)
Happy that what I studied is being tested.

Going to spend the next few days shopping... eating and
catching up on lost sleep!

Down with bad flu. Going to see the doctor and get some
medication.

Life is great... after the examinations.

Chiao!

D-Day Is Here!!

2007-11-21T06:03:00.000-08:00

Today, is the last day of the examinations.

I have woken up slightly earlier to prepare myself for
the examination. Get the books ready, files and stationery.

I am nervous as well as excited. Nervous for the exam...
The paper that I will be sitting for is Language Testing.
This particular lecturer is quite fond of setting difficult
questions. Have not idea what he would test us.

What I know is...
There will be a total of 4 questions.
Section A : One question on testing of receptive and another question on testing of
productive skills.

Section B : One question on Item Analysis and one question on Alternative Assessment

I have read and studied for the examinations. I am just worried I cannot answer the
question...

Well... let's look on the bright side of life... It is the last paper. As of 12noon today...
I will be free as a bird. I will go shopping, trim my brows and maybe cut my hair.
I am so looking forward to it. Have not been shopping for the last two months.... so sad.

It is a time of awakening and shopping and more shopping.

All the best to me today! May the force be with me!
Chiao

One more exam and a presentation!

2007-11-16T19:25:00.000-08:00

Today marks the end of 5 examinations that I have to sit for.

The feeling is euphoric. Imagine having to sit through 3 examinations in a week!
That's something.

I am only left with Language Testing exams on Wednesday.
On Monday, is my Media Assignment presentation.

I am down with flu today, supposed to meet Christine to do the assignment(Language Testing). I did not go. I still have to do the assignment at my own time and pace. Resting in
between.

I am waiting for the other laptop to be ready, meanwhile I am writing on the blog.
I have to go now or else... I won't be able to finish the assignment and study for my exams.

Chiao!

I had forgotten to mention!

2007-11-14T20:08:00.000-08:00

In completing the survey,

You need to write down your name, school and trainer.

For the trainer, write... IM Innovations.

IDA-Students' Survey!

2007-11-14T19:58:00.001-08:00

This message is for my ICT Club members.

Please go to the link provided on my blog and complete the
survey as soon as possible.

Once you have done the survey please tag on my tagboard
to confirm that you have done the survey, write your real names. Please take this
seriously! Do not give answers that doesn't reflect well on the school.

For those of you who intend no to do the survey.
I suggest you re-think.

The website is;

http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=KOBY_2f16sq1XZejZ2WW_2bVGQ_3d_3d

You can click on the link to go to the website.
Thank you. I should be getting 20 tags from the ICT club members.
Looking forward to see your names.

Phew! 3 down, 3 more to go!

2007-11-14T00:07:00.000-08:00

Hi there! Thank you for all your prayers...

I am half-way through the examinations.
Preparing for another examination this Friday.

At the same time, trying to finish my media assignment
which is due on Thursday. How will I manage?
I don't really know. What I know is to count my blessings
and give my best.

I am half-way through the media assignment. I should finish latest
by tomorrow morning. After that I will study for Language Methodology.

Don't have a clue on what to do and study for Methodology. I guess... have to
read all the approaches to the four skills. Hope for the best and try to be compose.

Actually the Curriculum examinations, really taught me alot. As a result of that,
I am better able to manage my time for the exam.

At this point of time, I think I would like to thank all my friends from Singapore
who is doing the Post-Graduate In Applied Linguistics, people like.. Bee Ling, Geetha,
Christine, Sarah and Irene. You have beeen a great bunch!

By the way, to the Graduating Class of 2007 this year...
I wish you all the best. I am sorry that I won't be able to make it
for your graduation tomorrow. I wish all of you all the best for the
future and God Bless You!

I have to go now! Will try to write soon!

Exams... Exams ... And More Exams!

2007-11-12T17:00:00.000-08:00

Hi all!

I guess all of you might have guessed it right.
I am currently very busy preparing for my
examinations.

I have six papers to sit for. I have done 2 and have
four to go. The examination dates are very close.
I have 3 papers to sit for this week. I had one on Monday, will
be sitting for one in Wednesday and one more on Friday.

I have to be frank ... it is very stressful. When it gets to me... I just tell myself
that the end is near. Just stay focus and everything will be alright.

On top of that I have to complete two written assignments to be handed in
next week. How will I do it? I think I have to stay positive.

I am thankful that my husband is very supportive of what I do.
He has been encouraging me to strive and do well. He has also been
looking into the needs of my son while I focus on my studies.

What really touched me is without fail... before every exam, he will
send me an sms to encourage me. After the exam, he would again call
me to ask how the paper was. It really feels good, knowing that someone
is there to help and spur you on. It would be good though if he can sit for
the paper! Lol.

I have to go now. Have to revise for Language Acquisition tomorrow.
Chiao!!

Submission Of Assignment

2007-11-01T09:30:00.001-07:00

I submitted 2 assignments today.

A big load off my tiny shoulders.

I have 3 more assignments to complete and 4 exam papers to sit for.

In the midst of doing assignment and bonding time with my friends,
I did not realise that the course is coming to an end. I am only left with
3 more weeks before I am transported back to reality. I have to go back
to school.

Don't get me wrong. School is fine.It is just that going on course is better!
One most important thing that I will miss is reading those academic books.
It is not that I cannot read them when I am in school. It is just that my time
will be spent more on the students than on myself.

After being away for four months... I think my reaction time to issues pertaining
to school has slightly been reduced. I realised that I would ponder for a few
minutes before I am able to react.

I do not know what is in store for me next year... I do look forward to apply what
I have learnt to help my students.

I have a morning class tomorrow with Dr. Cane. Last lesson for the course!
Next week... is a break to study for exams.

2 Days before the Curriculum Design Exam!!

2007-10-23T23:39:00.000-07:00

It is exactly two days before "D-Day".
Busy preparing for the examination.

Reading notes for the exam and trying to
finish up the assignment.

I have to hand in the assignment on the day
of the examination.

2 assignments due next week... no exam.

Next week is the last week for tutorial before
a week break to prepare for the examinations.

How time flies... I have completed 3 months of
the course. About a month to go before I go report
back to school.

That's all for now. Will write on Friday about exams.
Having butterflies and what not in the stomach.
Thank you to those who wish me luck!
Good Luck too, for my pupils who are sitting for the
year-end examinations.

Buzy...Buzy.... Buzy

2007-10-14T16:49:00.000-07:00

Hi all, apologies for not writing for quite a while.
Last week was madness...
I had to complete assignment at the same time prepare for
Hari Raya.
However, managed to complete only half of the assignment.
Will try to finish up by this week.

I don't seem to be able to finish my work when Adam
is around. There is always things for me to do.

Just to let you know, changed my car. Will not tell you
people what it is. By the way... I understand that you
people will be having exams next week. Good Luck. I will also
have one paper to sit for, Curriculum design, next Friday.
Wish me luck. Got to go now.

2 assignmetn done, 4 to go!!

2007-10-07T18:46:00.024-07:00

Yes! I am proud to announce that I have completed 2 assignments to date; Language Methodology and Acquisition. I am half way through Curriculum design. What will I do next.

I intend to do read on curriculum, I have an exam on the 26. In between, I will do my asignment; Language Testing and Gramamr in Discouse.

Hari Raya is coming.. I have to get things ready. Thought of going to Robinsons to buy plates for Hari Raya. What plates? For the guest to eat the biscuits. Having said all that... I forgot to bring the Robinsons vouchers. I have to go tomorow then.

I will then have to do some reading at the library.

My Results!!! Want to Know Read On.....

2007-09-27T20:03:00.000-07:00

The results for the Media Assignment was announced to me on Monday afternoon.
I had more than butterflies... maybe cockroach, mosquito and many other insects
flying around in the stomach.

Dr Reinders was nice. He gave me constructive feedback about the assignment.
It was a very good session. I got to know the areas that I have to work on.

Anyway, I am sure you are all excited to know what I got. It was not marks but
grades. I was actually afraid to fail. Can you imagine? Me! at this age... afraid!

Yes. I was afraid... fear of not doing well. I wanted to do well so that people around me
like my son and students will be motivated to well to. My husband and I have a sort of an agreement to do well in what we have undertaken. He is currently doing his degree at Unisim.
He would share with me his grades for his assignment and exams. His motivation and drive spurred me to do well. I would not want to lose to him. Ha! Ha! So competitive. He got A for the last semester. I want to do equally well especially for my son. I want him to see that at this age, his parents are still studying and impress on him the importance of education. Any other way will not work... I get complacent quite easily.

There are times... when all the three of us will be with a book or papers either to read or complete. Just like last night, I had to read my book on motivation to do the assignment. Adam was reading his Jean Ayre book because he has to do his assignment and Shaheed was doing a practice paper. Everyone was so focussed in what they were doing.

Back to my grades for the Media Assignment... I've got B+. I know it is not an A but I guess... it
was good enough for the time being. I will strive for A in the next assignment. Since I am striving for an A... I have to go and do some research on the assignemtnt. Cheerios!!!

The D-Day!!

2007-09-24T00:51:00.000-07:00

Today is the day I am receiving the results for the Use of English in Media. I am currently in the Media Room. I am number 5. All of us are jittery waiting for the results. Could not concentrate during the lesson. It is so distracting. Wonder what I will get. Wish me all the best!!! My turn is coming soon.

Finally One Assignment done!!

2007-09-14T20:07:00.001-07:00

Hi all!!

Have not been writing... Not because of any illness or misfortune.
It is just that very busy with assignment.

I am finally done with the CALL assignment (part 1)that is due on Monday.
I will reward myself by going out today. I will start on Part 2 of the assignment
tonight. Anyway.. what took me so long to complete. It all boils down to my
personality of being a perfectionist. I started doing the assignment about one
and the half week ago. Looking for materials and reading them. The assignment
that I did went through at least 3 drafts. Everytime, I look at it, I felt that it is inadequate.
I revised the framework for evaluation of the software 3x. I am finally happy with what
I have. Will get Adam to read it to get his comments.

Life has not been all assignments...
Since Erna, Yuyu and Ha are not around... have been visiting Khai and Tili at RELC, just to make sure that they are fine. Also took them out for lunch. It was a good week. No complains.

Yesterday, I went to Geylang to get clothes for Hari Raya. After 2hours of walking finally Adam found the 'baju kurung' that he liked. I too got mine at the same boutique. It was the first time that the whole family managed to find clothes that catered to all our needs. The price is a non-issue.
Today is the 3rd day of the fasting month. In between finalizing my assignment, managed to clean the house. Once I am done with this assignment... will get started on Dr Cane's and Dr Lim's assignment. As usual before doing the assignment, I have to read a few books before starting to write. Now I understand what Ernie has been going through. Well... of I go...

The Holiday !!!

2007-09-03T09:20:00.000-07:00

The one week September holiday is here!! Finally after ten weeks of studying the September holidays is here. But not for me... I still have classes to attend. I will only have the holidays next week when the rest of Singapore are in school. Nevertheless, to those people having their break this week, Happy Holidays!! I have mine next week.

The next week of holidays will be used to do..... yes you are right! Assignments. Looking forward to do part of it. I have 6 modules thus there are about 6 assignments to complete. I am not fretting over it. I will try my very best to do it well. The grades is not my priority. I believe if you do something well... the results will come.

I will be meeting Christine this Wednesday, to discuss the assignment/s. As such, I will have to do my part to read up on certain books so that I will have a fruitful discussion with her. I will be going to the library later today to borrow books. Shaheed will be playing computer at Toa Payoh while Adam will be in school. Maybe in the afternoon, we will watch... Ratatouille. Shaheed has been pestering us to watch the movie. Adam will be away for the rest of the week. Tuesday and Wednesday... he will be in Malacca while Thursday and Friday... he has a camp to attend.

Since Adam will be away.... I hope to do more to finish up the assignment. Till next time.... Tata

Teachers' Day At RELC

2007-09-01T06:37:00.000-07:00

Hi all!! It has been a week since I write.
Not that busy but.... trying to come to terms to complete
5 assignments. It is not a big issue. Just to get started on it.

This is the first year that I spend Teachers' Day out of school.
So as the rest of the teachers in the course do not feel the absence
of celebration too much. We have decided to organise a small get-together among
ourselves. It was not a ten course dinner but I guess sufficient for
the 25 of us. It was a small affair.

I wonder what the celebration was like in school.
Next week is the school holidays. I still have lessons next week.
I plan to meet up with Christine to discuss our assignment.

Will write again soon. Have a wonderful day and year ahead.

Teachers' Day Dinner

2007-08-26T18:34:00.000-07:00

Had soooo much fun at the dinner.
Laughed so much until my mouth ached.

The MCs for the night were hilarious.
I thoroughly enjoyed myself.

The food and company were good.
Overall rating 10 out of 10.

I dressed as a school girl...
I had my nails painted.
It was so uncomfortable having long nails.
Guess the colour of the nails... RED!!
Very 'hiao' chinese for vain
It made everyday task like buttoning my blouse sooo difficult.
I had to do everything slowly. So not myself.

As a result, I went to the nail shop the very next day to have it removed!!!
It cost me $40 to have it removed, more than the cost to put it on.
After that, my finger nails felt course and uncomfortable.
I said to myself, "Paid so much to put it on and pay even more to have it remove!!"
I believe, this is what women go through for the sake of vanity.

I have posted the Teachers' Day Dinner photographs. Take a look at it and decide
for yourselves.

Chiao!!

Wednesday is Here!!

2007-08-21T16:48:00.000-07:00

The day that I am looking forward to is finally here....
Overslept and rushed to send Adam and Shaheed to school.
Slept late the night before reading Dr Gloria's, Grammar in Discourse.
Printed from the net the meaning of relative clause and gerunds.
I quite understand its usage now.

Came back and wanted to sleep but.... just could not sleep.
I decided to write on the blog.

I guess today... will be a fun-filled day of reading. Intend to revise the Grammar In Discourse
and Language Methodology. There is a lot to learn for Grammar In Discourse. The functions and form. If I have time, I will read Dr Hayo notes just to refresh my mind about Corpus and Concordance. If I have more time today, I will revise Dr Cane's, PsychoLinguistic Approach to Language Acquisition. I think I will read up on Stephen Krashen's 5 theories.

I don't know if I can do all today.... I will try though.

I almost forgot.... need to go to school to collect notes on Adjective and Noun Phrase from Ernie.
I will try to speak to Hasanah about coming down to take pictures of her lesson and the lesson plan on Friday.

I will get dress and go to school now. Chiao!

Sometime at last!!!

2007-08-20T19:13:00.000-07:00

Sorry for not posting for quite a while... I am not having a ball of a time... However, it is better than being in school. I have been immersing myself with reading. If people get drowned in water... in my case... I get drowned in books and papers!

I have been reading continuously for a month now! My brains are bursting with 'jargons' pertaining to applied linguistics. Aghhh!!!

I am taking a half an hour break before I continue reading again. I am looking forward to Wednesday. I do not have to attend any class. i don't have class on Thursday and Friday too!!

Don't be too happy... guess what I will be doing... You are right... reading!

I have to go now. Will write often.

Using of IT in Language Acquisition

2007-08-15T04:51:00.000-07:00

Today, I had a lesson with Dr Hayo Reinders. He is one of the best tutor around. No buzz ... no fuzz. He asked us to call him Hayo instead of Dr Reinders.

Today, I learn to evaluate websites using a set of tools. It was enlightening. After the workshop, I learn that a website can be evaluated through the input it gives to a learner, whether there is an output, most importantly whether the breakdown in communication can be resolved, motivation factors, interaction and finally the authenticity of the website.

I need to clarify what is breakdown in communication means. It means there is an avenue for the programme to clarify with the learner what he does not understand. Actually, it is quite difficult to find a software that is able to do this unless... I do it myself!

After the class, Erna, Yu and I went to Suntec City. We had a great time... window shopping and eating. We had an early dinner at Secret Recipe. We talked about practically everything under the sun. It was an eye opener.

That's all for now...Bye

Language Testing

2007-08-14T04:28:00.000-07:00

Today is actually a good day. Did not have to attend class in the morning.
I only had Language Testing. I actually like the subject however,..... there
is a slight problem with the lecturer. His name is Dr Chan... he would enter the
class start the lesson by going round the class asking questions about the previous
day or week's lesson. Attending his class is a real torture. You have to stay focussed
for three hours! Even computers cannot do that. The moment you relax, he will
bombard you with questions that you are so unfamiliar with. It is such a drag to
attend his class.

When I reflect on the way I treat my pupils... I don't remember employing
such a strategy to make sure that my pupils learn. I believe that the pupils should
learn the subject for the love of the subject and not, I repeat, not because he / she
will be constantly tested. The students will live in constant fear. When will I be asked
and insulted.

I look forward to tomorrow though... I have Use of Media in the teaching of English.
Dr Hayo Reinders is a nice person. He doesn't threatened but engaged us. I guess that is
the difference between a local (Malaysian lecturer) and lecturer from the Europe and
America.

Till then... Chiao!

A Good Break!!!

2007-08-12T10:45:00.000-07:00

It has been a 3 tiring weeks. As the saying goes.... At the end of every rainbow there is a pot of gold. Today... is my 'pot of gold'. I did not have to go for classes today. The whole day! Yes!

Being a good student, I am currently in RELC Library reading. Surprised! Don't be...
I am reading the notes. There is just too many jargons to remember. I just read the difference between aim and objective. The difference between content and performance competencies.
Boring right! I will not continue then. Let's talk about lunch.

Lunch was good... I brought Rizal and Mohathir to Sabar Menanti. Ordered dishes that filled the whole table. We ate and talk. Rizal is soooo funny. Sorry to end so abruptly...I think I need to continue with my reading. Will write more during my eye break!

Another Week Has Passed!!!

2007-08-11T00:02:00.000-07:00

It was a tiring week. I had Dr. Richard's class everyday.
The work on his assignment has started. I have to plan
a 2 units of materials to support writing.

Dr Richards is actually nice. He gave us a choice of
what to do. I had to complete either a syllabus or material
design. I chose material. Sounded easy eh!

It is not that simple.... I have to write down the principles
behind choosing the materials. There are alot of factors to consider
before doing it.

Dr Chan's Language Testing class was hilarious and embarrasing at
the same time. As usual, before starting his new lesson, Dr Chan
would recapitulate the previous week's lesson. He would go round
the class calling on people at random to answer. I have never enjoyed
this. Dr Chan called on me... I was dreaming I guess and did not hear
his question... I then asked him to repeat his question and the whole
class burst out laughing. I managed to get the right answer after that.
The next incident.... the same thing happened. I was thinking of something
else and answered him wrongly. I guess... there is no chemistry between us.
He just know when to ask me. Frankly, it is quite difficult to stay awake and
pay attention for three hours.

I always come back home, mentally exhausted. What a week. I am
going to rest after which I am going to do some reading...
I am currently reading, Jean Atchinson's book on Words In Mind.
This is the second book that I am reading that is written by her.
She looks at how learners acquire language and explained alot of
Noam Chomsky theory. Beginning to love Chomsky... intelligent...
Imagine this... Chomsky was an undergraduate at Harvard University
when he challenged B.F Skinner's theory of Behaviourism in the
acquisition of language. Would like to meet him some day.

Need a rest... will write soon.

Monday Blues!!!!

2007-08-06T13:34:00.000-07:00

It is a Monday... Feeling the 'hang-over'.

Today started off quite well. I had a wonderful time
in Dr. Gloria's lesson on Grammar in Discourse.

For today's lesson.... I learnt to dissect a sentence
into Noun Phrase and Verb Phrase. It was real 'tough'
at first as I learned this about 13 years ago. I need
to recall what I learned in NIE. However, as we progressed,
able to see the link.

There is this exercise that was really interesting and it really
helped in dissecting the phrases. Prior to giving us the task,
Dr Gloria explained the meaning of Clauses. Clauses are actually
made up of phrases that define an action. To put it simply,
the message that it wants to convey.

Back to the hands-on activity. Dr Gloria gave us a text and
told us to first divide it into clauses. After which, we had to
draw comic strips to represent the clauses.

I did not realize the objective of the hands-on activity until
the end of the exercise. Each comic strip actually represented
a clause. Viola!! The Great one has spoken. I am currently on
lunch break...

I would not want to imagine the next class... It is Dr Richards!!!!!!
Aaahhh!!!!!! I wish the ground could open and eat me up.
Dr Richards is actually a very learned and experience person
in the field of syllabus implementation. He could relate to
which ever curriculum that was implemented in any part
of the world. Why am I not looking forward to his lesson... because
there is just too much to comprehend within the given time.
It is due to him having to leave this Friday. He wants to cover
as much as possible before he leaves. Personally... he is a nice and
has a great sense of humour.

Well... we will leave Dr Richards for a while (until 2 p.m. today)
I have to go now!!!

The Great Run!!!!!

2007-08-04T19:37:00.000-07:00

Guess What??? I woke up late this morning.
Adam had to wake me up. Normally, I would
be up and about before he does. I guess it was the
food that I ate for dinner. I had a very, very heavy dinner.
We went to Monkeys Cafe to celebrate Shaheed's birthday.
I had tom yam noodles, seafood platter(shared), 3 chicken wings
and to end the meal, I had crepes with bananas. Wow!! It was
just too much.

Back to the topic. Since I had woken up late.. I took a taxi to
Tampines Junior College(my alma mater). The run almost started.
I did the usual boring stuff like warming up and so on. The run started
as scheduled. I completed the 2.4km in my personal best of 15. something
seconds. I was not the first to complete either was I the last. Thank god.

After the run, decided to walk with Stephanie for another 1.6km. It was
a great work out. As we walked, we gossiped and talk about things.

After the run, a group of us went to 'bond'. We went to eat. It was
crowded everywhere. Finally, we had to settle for Long John Silvers.

We continued to talk till about 11.30 and went home. I had a headache
and went to sleep almost immediately. I popped in Vitamin C tablet(1000mg)
to aid my recovery.

I am waiting for Adam to call to go out for dinner. I will have an early night.
I feel very, very tired. I hate to say it but.... I sincerely think that it is the age.

What's Happening (not me ...it's you!!)

2007-08-02T13:45:00.000-07:00

I left the kids in school about two weeks ago.
I made them see the need to remain well-behaved
and alot of other things.

Since then, alot of things had happened. I am not
angry .... more of disppointed at their behaviour.
One student even wanted to 'sue' a teacher to just
because the teacher reprimanded the class and felt that
it was not justified. I have always impressed upon them
the need to be respectful to teachers wherever they are.
Respect should not only be given to teachers that you like.
Respect should be give to all teachers no matter how horrible
or terrible the teacher or his or her teaching is. There are proper p
rocedures to take in dealing with such a situation. Threatening a teacher is
definitely not the way to do it.

When I reflect on their actions, I think that I may have not been
a good role model and teacher for them. If I had been... this would
not have happened. What have my pupils become? They were angels
when I left them and now .... they have started to grow into ????
I am lost for words and certain things are better left unspoken. Maybe
they will sue me for writing my thoughts in my blog.

I contemplated if I should come to school and deal with them myself.
I am reluctant to see them. I am afraid that I may say and do things
that I don't mean. For now, I think it is a good time to stay away
and concentrate on my studies. I cannot emphasize enough on how
disappointed I am.

To my pupils who are reading, I know not all of you are misbehaving,
I would like to express my thanks to these pupils, for the 'guilty' ones....
Every teacher has their own way/style of doing things and this is influenced
by their upbringing, social-economic background and personality. Thus, it is
important to know that the teacher meant well when repremanding you.
You should not be defensive and react to the situation. What you should have
done is to take a step back and reflect. Imagine.. this scenario where... all
classes in the school are noisy and pupils walking around in these classes.
How is learning supposed to take place?It is also the duty of every teacher
to reprimand any pupil if they don't behave or listen.I hope you realize your mistakes
and apologize to the teacher.

Before I end, I would lke to express my utmost thanks to Azri, Steph
and Wang for helping me out with the class. Shopping tomorrow???

Birthday Celebrations!!

2007-08-02T04:11:00.000-07:00

Today, Irene and the rest of the Singaporean 'students' including me,
celebrated Ms Myanmar and Vietnam's birthday.

We bought the cakes and gifts from Sheraton Hotel. We actually
wanted to walk to Coffee Bean.. I guess.. it was just too far.

The two of them were actually quite shocked when we presented
them with the cakes.

Language Methodology

2007-08-01T19:31:00.000-07:00

Today, I had the first lesson the the above topic.
Just like Grammar in Discourse.... it is so dry.

The course requires us to use 'jargons' that we
teachers in the classroom do not use widely.

Dr Lim, (the lecturer) posed the question of what
are the approaches that we employ in the classroom.
Methods and techniques are part of application.

It was only after much deliberation that I understood
that Approaches are actually theory that propogate a
certain method or technique. For example, in
Communicative Approach, the method would be role-play.
The above is just an example.

He also talked about fluency and accuracy in language aquisition.
Fluency means the ability of the learner to construct a sentence
that may not be grammatically correct, while accuracy looks at
the grammar structure of the sentence.

My colleagues from the different Asian countries shared about
their experience in introducing the different approach in the
teaching of English language. It was a great insight to hear
what they are doing.

I have to go now. Will write soon.

My son's birthday!!

2007-07-31T14:36:00.000-07:00

Dear all, today is the day that I gave birth to the adorable and cute little boy by the name
of Shaheed. He was so small only, 2.945kg when he came out. However, he grew bigger by the
hour. Yes... not day but hour. He is now much heavier than myself.

We'll probably go out and celebrate his birthday. Sang a birthday song for him in 3 different
languages this morning.

Big Trouble in Little India

2007-07-30T19:03:00.000-07:00

I had intended to go to school today.
I had scheduled meetings with the
NIE Supervisors.

I came to school early. I was on a mission.
The mission was to get the message across
to the kids that I really meant what I said and
I have been getting feedback regarding their
behaviour.

Prior to this, I went to the pupils' blog and was
shocked to see blogs that were not updated. I listed
them and wrote down the date in which the last wrote
in their blog. (I reminded them last week to update their
blogs by last Friday, 27 July.

They were shocked to see me in school. I inform them of
my 'findings'. They were speechless. The pupils have till
this Wednesday, 1 April to update their blog. I reminded them
that it was not an April Fool's joke.

The other thing was their attitude and behaviour in Hazel's class.
Just because she is new and nice... they climb all over her. Making
so much noise while they were doing group work.

There were many unhappy faces but.... I managed to get the
message across that they should behave whether I am around
or not.

I know that I should not worry about them and concentrate on my studies...
I just do not like their attitude. Not forgetting, I will continue to monitor
their blogs. The next thing that I will look at, is the Primary 5^Commitment
forum page. If anyone of you are reading, please tell your friends to post their
answers.

After the meeting and 'scolding' session, I went to RELC to attend my Language
Testing lecture. As usual, I had an enriching time listening to Dr Chan talk about
what should we test. Listening and Reading are actually co-related and Speaking and
Writing are in the same domain.While Listening and Reading requires the learner to
decode the text while Speaking and Writing requires the learner to encode the text.
I also learned that... it is more difficult to test a learner on its reading skills than in writing
as is reading there are different skills to be tested at the different levels. Yes! You are right..
It is very 'chim'. I have to go now... need to read for Dr Richards class tomorrow. Chiao!

The Most Restful Sunday That I Ever Had

2007-07-29T14:54:00.000-07:00

I guess this is what life should be.
Resting at home, watching television after
a hard week at school.

When I was in school teaching. Sunday meant a day
that I dread most. It was a day that I spend preparing
Monday's lesson, doing lesson plans and telling myself
that there are pupils waiting to be nourished with knowledge.
It was quite bad. I would also try to sleep early on Sunday night
coz I had to wake up early the next day! How dreadful!

Life is much better this week as I am away on course at RELC.
I get to sleep later tonight as I will be watching, "Ugly Betty".

I guess you really can't get the best of everything. Everything has
its advantages and disadvantages. As for now, I will spend the
rest of the day, "bumming" around the house. Thought of going to the
gymnasium at 4 p.m. and do some reading. I begin to enjoy reading actually.

Oh... I almost forgot to say that I went to all my students blog and got a
list of pupils who have not updated their blogs despite reminders. I guess...
they think I was pulling their leg. When I see them on Monday, we will see
whose leg is being pulled!!! Ehmmm...

It's Saturday!!

2007-07-28T09:15:00.000-07:00

Finally the weekend is here. Time to relax a little.
However, I need to do alot of reading for the weekend.
Next week will be a busy and tiring week as there will
be more readings to do.

I've appointment at BrowHaus to relax and beautify
myself! The appointment is at 10.30 a.m.
Adam and Shaheed are in school. Will meet them
for lunch later.

I thought of going to Bras Basah Complex to get those
cool and colourful files,not forgetting index cards and
colourful pen to entice me to write more notes. I hope to
do it after going to BrowHaus.

Heard from the teachers that my pupils are creating quite
a din in class. I am disappointed in their behaviour. Maybe
I was expecting too much. Furthermore, how can I impose
my beliefs and views of ways in which a class should be conducted
onto others. I guess I just have to just hope that the pupils
will come to their senses soon and not take advantage of the
situation.

In addition, I heard that the Primary 3s are running around the class.
I don't remember that happening two weeks ago. In my next entry,
I think I would like to talk about the influence of a Teacher in the
classroom.

Got to go now.. I am an appointment remember!!

What am I doing????

2007-07-26T12:50:00.000-07:00

I actually survived the first three days of the course. It is heavy going.
The course on Curriculum Development by Dr Richards almost burst my brains. There is just so many terms and there is only a slight difference between one and the other. I try very hard to stay awake during his lecture.

For the PostGraduate Diploma In Applied Linguistics, I am supposed to take 4 Core Modules and 2 Electives. Core Modules are in layman terms- no choice have to do whether you like it or not. On the other hand, Electives are subjects that you have to make a choice. It is actually a 'guided dictatorship' kind of choice as there are only 3 choices. Most probably, I'll take the Use of Media in Language Teaching. I am torn between Language Testing and Research in Applied Linguistics. I am attending the Language Testing lesson later today. I actually like Research in Applied Linguistics.. however.... the lessons are conducted on every Friday afternoons! What a turn off!

I want my Fridays to be a day that I can look forward to, do my readings(bluff more of going shopping!)

I don't know what had happened to my blog. Yesterday, I did my tag-board and today I cannot read anything!

One hour to go before lunch time is over. The lunch time is so darn long that I can go to Paris and come back and still make it on time! In my 13 years of teaching, never did I have a 2-hour lunch!

I have to go now! Will see what I can do to 'repair the damage done on my blog'.
See you soon.

1st Day at RELC

2007-07-22T22:45:00.000-07:00

Wow!!! The day is filled with briefing after briefing. You don't know what hit you. Anyway, I switched off after ten a.m. I am on my lunch break waiting to sit for my Proficiency Test. Yes! I have to sit for a test. I will end at 5 p.m. today. I looked at the timetable. It is fully packed with lessons. Oh God!

Thought of spending the 4 months at Starbucks, I guess I cannot. There are 6 assignments and 6 exams to sit for!

Made some friends.They are Bee Leng, Geetha, Irene and I cannot remember her name. There are 4 of us who are on MOE Scholarship while the rest are either on PDL or paying for the course on their own. Got to go now! Will have more time to write later. Chiao!

A New Beginning

2007-07-22T19:01:00.000-07:00

Hi all!

I have mixed feelings about tomorrow.
I am going for a course for four months.
Tomorrow is orientation day.

I am expected to be there at 9 a.m.
Will have to go to school first to finish up the class
board and do some administrative work.

I guess I still have some work pending like...
doing a closure with teh NIE Trainees and CTs.

Adam had a hamstring pull this afternoon.
He is sooo stubborn. Refuse to seek treatment.
He is in the bedroom agonizing in pain.

NDP 2007

2007-07-21T00:26:00.000-07:00

I was late! I had lunch with Adam and Shaheed before going to school.
I was surprised to see Hazel. I was later told that she is coming with us
as Simone was not going. I did not mind... I do need an extra pair of hands.

Had loads of fun with the kids. I have included the pictures.

The best part of the day was the fireworks. The reason, throughout the
show we only saw people walking to the toilet. It was really frustrating.

I had fun nevertheless...
I almost forgot.... met Victoria at Marina Bay.
It was good to see her. She is still as small and cute as ever!

Racial Harmony Day

2007-07-20T20:07:00.000-07:00

It did not begin as expected.... but it ended so well. Could not have asked for for.
We had this big idea of dressing as 'bibiks' ... wonder why i agreed to it.
Stella asked if I could pick her. Since I was driving.... very kesian... I picked her up.
As I entered the estate had to regurgitate my alphabets as it was one of the HDB blocks
with alphabets attached to it. I guess HDB has run short of numbers to use.

Any way the bibik came down at 6.55 a.m. I knew I was late. Drove like an F1 formula
driver to school. Everyone thought I was late... Checked my phone after school and realised
that Wang had called me to check if I was late. All because of Stella.

Stephanie helped dress me up.... I looked like a bibik.
It was difficulty walking.

Assembly was next... Stella had this brilliant last minute idea to go on stage.
Just went along... had nothing to lose.
After that, there was a performance by, Main Wayang... a Peranakan group.

Stella really pushed her luck when she asked Ms Tay to go up the stage and parade
her dress(she was wearing a cheongsam)... I guess the Principal will be expecting her soon!

After all that went to class... it was a teary farewell... will tell you more tomorrow.

After that, briefed my new relief teacher, Hazel ,she is so so young.
I then did my Lab 3 board. It all ended at five thirty.

Called home and wanted to have dinner with Adam...
Thought of going out for dinner. He has plans to go out with
his friends... So I had dinner with Shaheed.

I am really tired... will need more sleep as I have to clear my table tomorrow.
It is such a mess.

2007-07-10T15:40:00.000-07:00

It is exactly 8 more days to leaving school.

Trying to finish up the syllabus as much as possible.
Nothing much is really happening.
So looking forward to 4 months of rest.

Actually when I say nothing much happened.... I lied.
I just remembered about the Papier Mache.

The pupils project will be showcase at Century Square this
Saturday and Sunday.
Had to do touch up of the pupils' work. It is so very tiring.

Could not sleep for the past few nights. Don't know why.
I am coming down with flu, I guess.
I cannot be sick now! There's so much to do.

Feeling very, very sleepy. I hope I can last till 4 p.m. today.
I have Contact Time.

Will write often... Promise.

It is another school day!

2007-05-10T03:50:00.000-07:00

Arrived in school early today. Will need to do some things with the pupils. About fifteen of them will be having having Higher Mother Tongue today. I have to keep the other half occuppied. Will go out with my family tomorrow. My uncle, from Canada, came down. The whole family treating Uncle Herbert and Auntie???. Looking forward to meet them.

Exams!!!!

2007-05-09T16:00:00.000-07:00

Exams are here again. It is a love - hate relationship.
We need exams to keep us focussed, however, it comes with lots of overheads,like
stress(when pupils do not know or refuse to learn or even put in the effort) and it leads to
frustration.

Sometimes I wonder whether they understood what was taught. The effort that you put in does not equal to the effort. I feel that I am all alone. It is a terrible feeling.

I understand that every child would like to pass, no one wants to fail. However, they are not
putting in the effort. I will ask them to do an exercise or written work, I feel that they are trying
to see what will I do if they don't do it write. The standard reply when they do something wrong is, I had forgotten what you said, when it was just mentioned. I think the 6 words should be banned or removed from the dictionary.

As you can read, I am frustrated. I cannot deny it. I am.

OM 2007(Part1)

2007-04-13T21:21:00.000-07:00

Finally had the time to write....
Excuses, and more excuses.

Last Friday and Saturday were the days for OM.
I brought 6 pupils to ACS(I) on Friday.
The bus was late and reached ACS at about 1.20 p.m.

Pupils were very nervous and so was I.
They had to do Spontaneous question.
You may be wondering what it is.
Actually, pupils are given a set of instructions to a situation.
Their role is to give as many answers within the given time.
There will be 3 judges for this segment of OM.

And guess what?
About 25 minutes before we were called, the pupils realised
that their friend,Mr A was not doing as well as Mr B.
They decided to bring Mr B in. But.... Mr A was not happy,
it was shown on his face.

I had to step in. I told the team to decide and asked every team
member why they wanted Mr B instead of Mr A.
Mr A had every right to be unhappy. I have come this far and someone
is telling me that I should sit out in the Spontaneous!
Mr A wanted to have a 'sparring session' with Mr B to decide
who is better. Since I have only 20 minutes left, I agreed.
Phew!!! After ten minutes, Mr B emerged as the winner and thus
will join his friends for the Spontaneous. Mr A was glad that he had
put up a good fight.

After 15 minutes, the school name was called. We were brought to a room.
I was not allowed to enter, only the pupils were allowed to enter and
out of the 6 only five can participate.

I know.. it is not easy. Pupils have to not only give accurate
answers but it also has to be creative. Pupils did quite well for
the Spontaneous.

After they came out of the room, I was not allowed to ask them the question
until we were on the bus! It was killing but I relented for the sake of the children.

Went back to school and had a practice of the Long Term problem with the pupils.
It was so tiring for them and me. (I think it is the age!!!:)

Went home only at 6.30 p.m. and could not do anything except laze around and
went to bed. I have to wake up early tomorrow. Meeting the pupils at 7 a.m. yes
that early. Sob... sob

Odessey Of The Mind

2007-04-06T19:58:00.000-07:00

Went for Odessey Of The Mind(OM) yesterday with Stephanie at ACS(I).
They had a briefing for the coaches.
Wang and Azri did not go as they had Heritage Tour.

Cannot believe it that it is next week.
The pupils have come a long way.
It is all thanks to the teachers who guided these pupil and
not forgetting Nazurah.

Nazurah has been playing a very important role in getting the
group together and 'moving it'. In the true spirit of OM, the kids
have not asked any help from us. They did everything themselves.

When I was first sent for the workshop, it didn't dawn upon me the
importance and impact of OM on the pupils and myself. I took it as
one of those things that I had to do because I was sent. I didn't see
the need until I reflect on how I have looked at things, be it problem or
solutions and even life. It has changed me somewhat. It is like my
creativity switch was turned on. As I attend the twice a week meetings and
reminding the pupils that they have to think out of the box, I cannot help
but to also look at things in a different perspective. It is truly amazing.
I am not trying to brag. It is the truth.

Before I go.... Whatever, the outcome next Saturday, I know that the
kids involved in OM have learnt alot from this experience.
Competition is not all about winning, it the things or experiences that
you gain along the way. If we win, it would be a bonus.

To all the pupils in OM, you are all winners.

Tests and More Tests

2007-03-28T06:00:00.000-07:00

Gave pupils 3 test within 4 weeks. Pupils had to sit for English test every week except during the one week holiday. Was disappointed with the pupils results, the first time they sat for the test. Only a handful achieved my target. I decided to give them a second test. The outcome was disastrous than the first. I refused to give up. I gave them another test today. My perserverance paid off. Many did well and improved on their marks. I intend to give them test, weekly to prepare them for the coming examination. I took less than an hour to finish marking. I felt like a miilion dollars after I calculated the pupils marks. They did exceptionally well. I am so proud of them for living up to my expectations. It is truly a euphoric kind of feeling. I hope they will continue to do better. I am giving them another test next Wednesday. Will write soon.....

Holidays are Finally Here!!!!

2007-03-13T03:50:00.000-07:00

Phew!!! The long awaited school holiday is here.
What a relief! Although it is only a week, at least
it is a holiday.

I actually do not have a holiday. I take this time
to consolidate the administrative matters for Term 1.
I come to school everyday! I need to finish up my work
before T2 starts.

T2 will be a busy term as the pupils have to sit for
the SA1 examination. Teachers will also be busy setting
papers ro the exam.

Looking forward to Thursday, going to Johor for some
shopping. Nothing great or fantastic. Just a trip across
the causeway and leave all the work and worries of
school for about five hours. It is what we call, Retail Therapy.

Husband is away in Malacca for two days. He is with his students.
He brought a group of students there. He will only be back on Wednesday.
I have some free time for myself.

I am really sleepy now, unable to sleep, as a result cleaned the house.
Will go back to sleep now. Going jogging and then to school later.

Interview at RELC for SEAMCO Scholarship

2007-03-07T14:57:00.000-08:00

It is me again.
I went for an interview on Tuesday, 6 March.
It is for a teaching scholarship.
If I am successful, I will be away for about
3 months and since it is a scholarship, I will be
fully paid. I also have to sign a one year bond.
When I heard of it, I was sceptical, How am I supposed
to juggle teaching and attending the course? I read and
and was glad to read that it is a full time course. I don't
have to do any juggling. I can concentrate on my studies.

I really hope to get the scholarship. I hope to strengthen
my pedagogy of the English Language.
I will awarded an Advanced Diploma in Applied Lingusitcs.
At first, I actually wanted to apply for a Certificate in
Integration of IT into English. However, after thinking
through, I decided on the Advance Diploma.

Raihana and Hasanah was nice enough to get someone to
relief me while I go for my interview. I am thankful for
that.

At the interview, they ask me to talk about what
I have done in school.
I talked about my Forum Page and Blog.
One of the interviewer asked if my pupils enjoy the lesson
that I taught them. I also mentioned about Digital Natives
and Digital Immigrants.
I was also ask about my views on STELLAR.
They also asked about my aspirations to take on
leadership role. I told them that I am certain that
I want to stay in the Teaching track.
After they heard enough, they let me go.
Now that I am reflecting, I don;t know if I had spoken
too fast!!!! Sometimes I do that because I am excited! He!He!

I am still awaiting the outcome of the interview.
Please pray that I get it. I really want to go.
That's all. Got to go.

Getting Better

2007-03-01T20:46:00.000-08:00

Hi all!! Thank you for all your tags. I am getting better.
Appetite returning. However, the stomach is still not
too good.

I have been spreading the germs to my friends in school
that they have been sick. Ernie was not around for 2 days
this week and today, Azri is away. The germs are so potent.
I infected alot of people.

By the way, tomorrow is my brother's wedding.
Will have to go to my mum's place tonight to help.

My brother had assigned my husband and I duties.
Adam has to pick him up and bring him to Orchid Country Club
by nine tomorrow. As for me, I am in-charge of the
reception table.

The reception will end at four p.m. I will help mother to pack the things
and go home from there.
Adam has lessons at unisim. He will have to leave earlier.
After lessons, he will have to do the overnight cycling to
celebrate Nan Chiau 50th anneversary. I will only see
him on Sunday! Got to go. Will write soon.

Away From School

2007-02-23T02:49:00.000-08:00

I guess by now, everyone knows that I did not report for school.
I am as sick as a dog. The pain is unbearable.

I actually caught the virus from my husband. He was sick last week.
He did not report to school on Wednesday.

On Wednesday, I was already feeling the body ache.
During my free period, I visited the doctor across the school.

He gave me some medication and took my blood pressure.
He said that my blood pressure is low. It was 80/60.
He asked me to go home.
I refused as I was thinking of my pupils in school.
The ICT Club (P5 pupil)had their C4D that day.
It was their first lesson. I had to make sure everything was ok.

I really looked pale. Mrs Kwok saw me and told me to go home.
I had to stay on. It is just me.

I went back to school to continue to teach. I stayed in school till
about 4.30 p.m. Went home and slept till the next day.

I was still sick on Thursday, I perservered through the day till
about 4.30 p.m. Went home and slept.
The pain was worst than the day before. I felt really weak. No
appetite. Vomitted a few times. It was terrible.

I then told myself that I am won't be able to go to school. Sms Raihana
and e-mail her the instructions for the relief teacher to do in my absence.

Went to the doctor again today. Doctor took my blood pressure. It was 100/60.
It seemed better but still quite low. THe doctor was surprised that I made
through We dnesday, he added that I could have fainted any time and if a very
strong wind blew, I would have been blown away,because of my low blood pressure.

Wonder how the kids are doing in school.

Visit to the German European School(GESS)

2007-02-20T03:41:00.000-08:00

Hi all!! Hope you all had a great weekend.
I know I did. To those of you celebrating Chinese New Year,
A Happy and Prosperous Chinese New Year.

On Thursday, 15 February, while the school was celebrating Total
Defence Day, my pupils and I were invited to the German European
School. I was quite glad as I don't have to see the kids eat only bread.
It breaks my heart. I know... it is important to let the pupils have the
experience. Well that aside, let me continue with the trip.

The GESS actually invited us to their school to celebrate International
Friendship Day. Left school at about 0745, as we had a long...long assembly.

When we reached GESS, we were met by the teacher, Mrs Maria Kalt and
the Principal(Sorry!! I forgot her name!) The pupils were divided into groups
and brought to their classes.

I was with 2 parent helper. We were brought to the Teachers' rest area to have
coffee. What a good life!! Wish everyday is like this.

It was a beautiful place. There were round tables and sofa. We sat and the Principal
made for us coffee! Cool isn't it. We talked till about 0930. After which, we went
to see the children. When I entered the classroom, I told myself that I should be in the
classroom having so much fun! I actually do not like to talk much. I would rather see
what the children are doing. I entered the room where they learn about Brazil.
They were doing the samba! Everyone was moving except for 4 children. Pulled them
aside and told them the objective of having them over. It did not work.

We went to the Canada, America and Egypt. The classroom that was learning about
Egypt was interesting. They had a game where the pupils were asked to dress their
friends as mummies using toilet rolls. To add on, the teacher was speaking French.
I could roughly understand what was being said (how? I learnt it while watching Barney,
the purple dinosaur, with my son!) It was so much fun.

At about 1130,the kids had their lunch. The canteen was closed as the parents had brought
food for their kids. The whole place was filled with food. There was food everywhere!!!

We went back at about 1225 and reached school at about 1255. The timing was good.

I hope my kids learnt something from the visit. As for me, it was an eye opener, I had
the chance to see what an international school looks like. The learning is rich.
Do I want to teach in such a school??? I really don't know. The challenges are different
as we are dealing with different kind of children. Would it be as fulfilling? Maybe.

Visit to the German European School

2007-02-15T04:37:00.000-08:00

I had a wonderful time today. Instead of teaching, I get to bring my class
pupils to GESS. It was so much fun. I took tons of pictures.

Can't wait to tell about the visit.
I will post pictures that I took.

By the way, went to Chinse Physician today, had to get my
back checked. Lucky for me, it was just a mucsle pull.
Feeling quite tired. Will write again tomorrow, I hope.

Dealing with Coen

2007-02-13T01:10:00.000-08:00

Coen is a new pupil in my class. He is from Junyuan Pr. Sch.
He came in on 3 January 2007 to be exact.

He is giving me lots of behavioural problems. He swears, disturb and cause hurt to others for
no rhyme or reason. He is also nonchalant about it.

There were many times where I scolded him and wasted valuable curriculum
time. It has happened more than once.

The last straw was when he used a rubber band and directed it to Zer Yee.
It actually hit Zer Yee's neck. I wrote in his handbook.

I had sleepless nights as I was thinking of ways to deal with him better.
I decided to give him a silent treatment. He is to have no contact with his
friends and classmates. He will be in solidarity. This is to ensure that the
pupils will not get hurt and vice versa.

It seemed to work. He was very quite. He expressed his loneliness.

Tagging the pupils' blog

2007-02-11T03:50:00.000-08:00

I read quite a few blogs some had good comments while the rest had not some good comments.
Most of the pupils had not used vulgar language in their blog, which was good.
However, I find one of the pupils' blog disturbing. She was using the word,"sucker" on her blog.

I find it disturbing as I wonder if she understands the meaning. In her blog, she also mentioned her unhappiness being in Primary 5^Commitment. My stand is if she cannot take any scolding, by all means.....

I believe... no pupils should have an exclusive of my scolding. if you have done something wrong, you will get scolded. It ends there!! I don't bear grudges after that.

I do agree that I am very 'naggy' these days... maybe age is catching up.

Odyssey Of The Mind

2007-02-08T05:13:00.000-08:00

The school is participating in the Odyssey Of The Mind (OM).
6 pupils were selected from the level.
The training of the pupils is quite difficult.
Pupils are supposed to think out of the box and be creative.

Pupils were posed questions; long term and spontaneous.
Spontaneous is where pupils are given a time limit and they are
required to give their responses.

It is an uphill task given the time limit to give innovative responses.

The group meets every Tuesdays and Thursdays.

I wish I had more time to visit my pupils' blog. I will visit them soon.

P5 Camp (III)

2007-01-30T03:54:00.000-08:00

Yes! It's me.
I have been very busy.
Let's not waste time and get on to it.

The campfire was great. However, parents came
to visit their children. We had no drinks to offer them as
the kids had their dinner and there was nothing to give except our
precious chocolate cake from Royal Cakes. It was a difficult decision
but we had to do it. We gave our cakes and puffs from Royal Cakes
to the parents. As they were enjoying the food, we stole glances at
the food.... Low and behold... it was all eaten except for a slice of
cake. We 'salivate' as we thought of the cakes.

Let's now move on to the campfire...
It was fun... seeing the kids perform. They truly have grown
into mature and dependable pupils. The teachers like always
had to perform. We did our bit. Ms Tay and Mrs Kwok also joined
in the campfire performance.

At about, ten, we bade farewell to Ms Tay and Mrs Kwok and the parents.
Had our debrief and finally came the best part...
Mr Khalid and Mr Yazid bought us food.
We had our food and continued to talk till 2 a.m.

The next day, I forced myself out of bed and took a look at the children.
Bathed and packed my things to go home. In between, I caught 40 winks and
slept.

It was really tiring. I then remembered I had a meeting that day at 3 p.m.
Called Sarila to inform her that I was too tired to open my eyes.

Went home and took a bath and slept.
What an experience!!!!

Will write soon.

Primary 5 Camp(PartII)

2007-01-17T03:56:00.000-08:00

Yes, it is me again.

Hope everyone is well and alive.

Let's continue the story...

That evening at about 1730, went for a walk

with the trainers to decide on which route should

the pupils do that night for the night walk.

We (the teachers), collectively agreed on the intermediate

route. Wang, Azri and I went ahead (in the darkness) to meet

them at the quarry.

Lucky for us, there were trainers waiting for us.

The place was so quiet.

We talked and joked. About 45 mins later, the kids start to

walk into the quarry. They were scolded for the 2nd time by

Mr K for making lots of noise during the night walk.

We made our way back to teh camp at about 2130.

Had our supper and went for a debrief.

That night(1st night) was tiring, I slept at

1 a.m. after the debrief session with the people from

Innotrek.

I checked on the kids to make sure that they are all

asleep. I was supposed to wake up at 3 a.m. to do sentry

duty. The alarm rang but.... just could not wake up and

continued to sleep till 0530. Woke my husband up as

he has to go to school. Went back to sleep after that and

woke up at about 7.00 a.m. when I heard Mr K shouting.

Guess what?? The pupils too overslept!!! Ha! Ha! I was

not the only one.

Did not bathe and went straight to the girls' dorm. Told them

to hurry and took my bath.

I was so sleepy during breakfast. We had good food at the camp.

Mdm K, came to the camp with Nasi Lemak, I could not eat because

my group was about to go for the Nature Walk. I brought along my

brand new NIKE raincoat.

I walked with the pupils. The walk was interesting as the guides

painstakingly explained the types of flora and fauna found along the

way. Frankly, I went for the Nature Walk because I felt guilty for

eating too much. The walk was to last for 4 hours. It drizzled and

became heavier towards the end of the walk. Thank god for the raincoat.

I could not takeit anymore. The kids were just too slow.

I decided to ask the trainers for directions and head back to the camp.

It was still drizzling.

Reached the campsite 15 minutes later. Rested. The kids got back to the

camp only 45 minutes later. Imagine the wait!!!!

I am so tired now..... there is still more.

The Teachers' Shopping Trip, Camp Fire and lots more!!!

Tune in for more.

Bye for now!!!!!

Primary 5 Camp

2007-01-10T17:00:00.000-08:00

Hi All!!!

Yes, you are right. I was not in school for 3 days
to attend the Primary 5 Camp.

It was soooo tiring especially after the first day.
Did all the obstacles course for the high elements.
The most enjoyable was the absailing. I thoroughly enjoyed
myself doing it. It was not that frightening.

The one obstacle that really tested my self confidence and resilient
was the pole jump. I have the pictures to show you.
I was scarry!!! Allow me to describe. It is just a pole(like a bark of the tree)
with stumps for you to climb to the top. It is about the height of a 3-storey
building.

What you are supposed to do for this obstacle is to climb to the top and
grab a horizontal pole infont of you.

Climbing up was easy. The difficult part was placing your two feet to stand
up on the pole. You have to find your balance. Once wrong footing, you fall...
no worries, we have safety equipment.

I took quite a while to get both my feet on the pole. The pole was shaking!!!
Actually, it was not the pole, it was my legs.Then comes the difficult part.
Jumping forward to catch the horizontal pole. Before I went up the pole, Yazid,
reminded me that if I were to do it, I had to have mind over matter. That really helped.

I did not hung on to the pole but.... only managed to touch the pole. I hurt my neck.
It was a big cut in a shape of a mouth. It is sooo big.

I am starting to feel sleepy again because I only had 3 hours of sleep last night.
Will continue tomorrow.

The First 3 Days!!!

2007-01-05T04:42:00.000-08:00

The weekend is finally here!!
Yahoo!
It has been a very busy and engaging 3 days.

On the first day of school, I had to clean and induct the
pupils. The next day was more cleaning and camp briefing.
On the third day, which is today, I had to calm the pupils and
prepare them for Camp on Monday.
Was unable to do any teaching during these 3 days.

We are going for a camp at the Dairy Farm for 3 days.
Some of them are worried having to sleep and bathe together
with their friends. During the Q&A, they asked so many questions.

I have not bought anything for the camp.
Need to buy some toiletries and undergarments for the 3 days.
I am particularly looking forward to the 'Flying Fox' and 'Absailing'.
I will definitely try them.

Might go shopping tomorrow to purchase the above items.
I might also buy new t-shirts. It feels as if I am going for
a camp for the first time.

Till next Wednesday, Tata

The Holidays Is Over!!!!

2007-01-02T04:23:00.000-08:00

Wow! How time flies.
It is time to report to school tomorrow. So not looking forward
to wake up early to go to shchool Wish it was 28 November,
actually any date would do as long as it is in December.

Will be teaching more or less the same pupils with some
new additions from 4^ Compassion and 4^ Integrity.

Wonder what they would be like.
Anyway, going for camp next week for three days. Yahoo!

Don't feel like writing. I have to turn in early because
I have to go to school tomorrow. How I wish tomorrow
never come!!!!

Tata

Sleepless Nights

2006-12-28T20:24:00.000-08:00

I have not been posting because I am very bogged down
with a big... big problem.

I submitted a DVD for the SVA' 06 way before the deadline.
Took a break from school. I did not get any news regarding
it till 22 December.

I received a call from Mdm Malika informing me that
ETD(Educational Technology Department-MOE) was not
able to view the DVD. I was told to re-submit. This is a start
of my nightmare.

I came to school the next day, Thursday trying to copy the file into
the DV Tape. I spent the whole day only to find out that the camera
was not compatable to the Final Cut Pro that we have. I could not even
burn it into a DVD! Imagine.

Frantically, I search on the net for vendors that could convert DVD to DV Tape.
There weren't any. I decided to get someone to just burn the DVD. I found this
shop at Bedok North. The man was super slow. It took him one and the half hours just to locate my file. In between there were customers. I could not wait and left.

The next day, I went to MOE to submit the DVD ( got it from the pupils). I met
Mdm Malika, she is such a nice lady. We went to view the DVD. I was shocked to see that they could not read the DVD. I was told to change the format from NTSC to PAL.

I started calling people I know. Lucky for me Yazeed, offered to help. I sent the DVD to his home. I decided to have another back up plan. I picked my son and went home.

At home. I went on the net and did a search again. I called a few shops.
By divine intervention, there is a shop at Rochor Centre that can convert
DVD to DV Tape. I spoke to the man 2x, just to make sure that I am hearing
it right. Got Adam to drive me to Rochor Centre and gave it to William.
I was quite relieved.

At the back of my mind, I was still worried wondering if the guy really know
what he is saying and doing. I called William the next day to check. I repeated
the words DV Tape ( I think more than 10 times). I was told to collect the
DV Tape on Tuesday. Meanwhile, Yazeed helped me to convert the DVD(NTSC)
to DVD (PAL)

Tuesday came. Yazeed came to school to give me the DVD. There was a problem. I could not veiw the DVD on his laptop. We had to go to CBL3
to view it. At about 2 p.m., I collected the DV Tape from William.
I brought a Video Camera to test. When I arived at the shop, William
was not around. His father attended to my needs.

Guess what? The tape.... tape .... emmmm...... emmmm
Worked!!!!!

I was happy but my worries are not totally over yet till I submit
it to ETD.

I zoomed to MOE. Malika was not at her desk. My agony was
prolonged. After about ten minutes, she returned to her table.

She brought me to the 4th floor. My heartbeat faster.... as the
man placed the DV Tape into the player. They were able to play the
DV Tape.

That was the end of my sleepless nights! I muttered under my breath.

I went home immediately to catch up on those lost hours of sleep.

Cinema4D Project

2006-12-13T04:01:00.000-08:00

The teachers are in the process of completing
the project.

It took them a very long time because...
it requires alot of work, like modelling and animation.

Yes! You are right. Teachers at East View are creating
lesson packages using C4D. It is so cool!

There are altogether 11 of us in this project.
We have divided ourselves into 2 groups.
1 group doing Maths(that's my group) and the
other doing language.

Both groups are finished with the modelling. We are now doing
the animation and rendering. The rendering is the killer.
Why? It is can take up to five hours just to render one scene that
is about 3 minutes long.

I am very proud of the teachers involved in this project.
It took us a year, from the training to the completion of
the project. Yes... that long... but... success is sweet.

Back In School

2006-12-11T23:37:00.000-08:00

I am back in school. Sob! Sob!

Don't worry. You're not expected in school.
You can enjoy the remaining weeks.

I came back to school on my own accord.
I have to prepare for 2007. I know...
why not wait till 2007. Well... if i wait it
will be too late. Pupils need spelling list and worksheets.

Whoever says that, a teacher's life is a bed of roses, they are
terribly wrong. It is a misconception. Go on and ask the teachers.

Of course.. there are a few who take their holiday to the max because
they have completed all their work or they are 'resting'.

Some feel the holidays is an entitlement. True to a certain extent.
Teachers are human too. They need a rest before the new year begins.
However, there is another group who just leave their work undone, just because
it is the holidays.

That's all the time I have now. Will write again soon.
See ya!

It is Finally Over!!!!!

2006-12-04T02:36:00.000-08:00

The long awaited moment is finally here!
I've completed the Video Project.

I submitted the Video to ETD today.
They should receive it latest tomorrow.
It is a big load off my mind. I can now
focus on doing other things like worksheets
for the pupils. How boring eh! Well that's life.

Not going for a holiday this December as
my husband has to be in school during this
period. Sob! Sob!

Looking forward to finish up lots of
things.Work I mean. Going to school tomorrow
to comrplete the Opportunity Fund Proposal and
Rubrics. Will try to be home in the afternoon to
bask in the sun baby!

I know the sun is bad for my skin but..
I just cannot help it. I look so white!
I need to add colour.

Will catch up with you people soon!
By the way, what do you think of my blog? Nice?

Video Project

2006-12-01T05:19:00.000-08:00

The weekend, is finally here!
This means another week gone!

It has been a long week.
I worked from 8 to 5.
Just like an office worker.

The pupils were also with me.
They stayed till one.
Jason was very good was put
in charge of the animation.
It was very good.
Actually, he was very good.

At about eleven today, Nazurah and Sandra
brought Ms Tay and Mrs Kwok to take
a look at the video.

Mrs Kwok gave her two cents worth of feedback.
I really appreciated it.
I am going to re-film certain shots and
re-render the video.

Holiday in School

2006-11-27T04:19:00.000-08:00

Hi all,

I am happy as I had accomplished alot today.

I achieved what I had set out to do earlier this morning.

The pupils completed the introduction for the video.

I am so proud of them, I gave them instructions and they
carried it out like a pro. I have not seen the product but...
I have faith in Nazurah and her team.

Completed my work review documents and training hours.

I am looking forward to tomorrow. It will be another long day.

I have the pupils coming in at 8.00 in the morning. It will end at
1 p.m. After which, I would have to meet Jessie to discuss about
the new portfolio that I would be taking on. Have to go visiting,
as one of my colleague's mother had passed away. After that I have to
return to school to complete the Opportunity Fund Analysis.

What a day tomorrow will be. Am I worried, not really, I take it
as a challenge. I will try my best and I believe it is possible.
I may not achieve all the task set out tomorrow. I am so looking forward
on how I juggle the work to be done tomorrow.

That's all folks!! Better get somethings done.

Holidays are here!

2006-11-24T23:47:00.000-08:00

Hi all

It has been a long while since I wrote in the blog.

I have been busy marking and keying in the pupils
results.

The school holidays started a week ago.
However... I am still in school trying to finish
administrative work.

I am currently doing a video project for the
8th Video Awards. I hope to finish the project
by this week.

I pity the kids too, having to come and help me
with the project.

After finishing the video project, I have to sit down
and plan for an ICT Club at East View. The plan would
include both short and long term plans.

That's not all, I am going to paint the class with the
help of 5^Commitment pupils.

I guess there is no holiday for me. That's alright.
As long as I know that the students benefit... I am satisfied.
They have been the focus of everything I do.

Adious.... Will write more on the progress of the video.

How have you people been????

2006-10-31T06:05:00.000-08:00

Hi there... Squeezing sometime to write.

Very very busy in school... marking and entering marks
into the system.

School has been a mad house with tons and I really mean
tons of deadline to meet since the end of year is approaching.

Everyone will be asking you for either this or than. It comes
to a point that YOU DO NOT LOOK FORWARD TO THE
END OF THE YEAR !!!!!

There are some who take the easy way out, AWOL or hide
under staircases or even better hide in the Music Room.
No one can find you. If no one sees you, you don't have to
do anything... plead ignorance!!! Ha Ha

I thought I could go swimming after the fasting month..
I was wrong, no time to go, have to meet deadlines.

Cherio!

It has been a long time!!!

2006-10-22T15:54:00.000-07:00

It has been a very long long time since I write.

I have been too busy moving house and having
house warming week after week. I was totally drained.

I am glad that it is all over. After the house warming,
it was preparing the pupils for the examinations.

The fasting month has been good for marking.
I spend all the free time I had marking instead of eating!

I have lost almost 3 kg. I look so scrawny.

Looking forward to the Hari Raya.

Teachers' Day Celebrations

2006-08-28T07:14:00.000-07:00

Hi all!

I feel good this week. It is a short week and the end of the
school term.

Wonder what the pupils will put up for the teachers
during the Teachers' Day Celebrations.

Bought for the pupils, ingredients to make
Brownies. They wanted to make brownies
for the teachers.

I assigned Shahirah and Petrina to head the
working committee.

There will be a Teachers' Day Dinner this Wednesday.
It is quite tiring because, I have to be in school the
next day. So boring!!!!

Oh ya! I need to print holiday homework for the
pupils. I need to keep them occupied.

That's all for now. See you next time.

How is everybody?

2006-08-24T18:17:00.000-07:00

Hi ! It has been a long .... long time.

I have been very busy packing and unpacking.
It is finally over. I can sit down and enjoy the view.

Planning to go swimming tonight. Before that I have
to buy a swimming costume!

The weekend will be reserved for family. My husband's
nephew and nieces coming over.

Will talk to all of you later.

School Holiday

2006-08-17T00:36:00.000-07:00

The pupils are not in school today. (Yahoo!)

The Primary 6 pupils are taking their PSLE
Oral Examination.

Having a 'breather'. I am really looking
forward to the September holidays.
I imagine myself relaxing at the swimming
pool.

I had to finish my marking. I am so glad
that I had finish all my marking.

I can spend the weekend with my family.

Moving to a new place this week. Need to
carry the boxes to the new house and unpack.
So not looking forward to it. I am sure it will be tiring.

That's all for now.

Reflection

2006-08-15T06:26:00.000-07:00

The pupils are more conscientious of their written assignment.

I do see improvement in most of the pupils' handwriting.

I am glad that they are making the effort.

Having Pride When Completing Assignments

2006-08-13T08:03:00.000-07:00

It ia me again. Wish I had more time to write.

I was marking the pupils' work earlier today.

I felt frustrated not angry mind you while
marking. Their work was completed haphazardly.
I had the impression that they were just doing
it for the sake of doing. There isn't any pride
in handing in the work.

I grew up having this believe that, whatever I
do is a reflection of my upbringing and my
attitude towards life in general. (I know...
I am old!!!)

I remembered having a beautiful handwriting.
I would painstakingly write neatly. My teacher
would scold and at times shout at me for not
writing the letters correctly.

Due to constant use of computer, I rarely write.
However, that did not mean that my handwriting
is illegible.

I could only say that a handful of my pupils have
beautiful handwriting. These pupils are, Allyah, Wulandari,
Adlin, Victoria and LiXuan. The rest have alot to catch up with.

I wonder if I need to give them handwriting exercises just
to make sure that they write neatly. I guess, very soon, every pupil
will have a tablet PC in school and submit their written
assignment on line. However, that does not mean that they
should not write neatly and legibly.

I still firmly believe that with the advancement of technology,
we should not forget the fundamentals. As they are our
guiding principles.

To my pupils who are reading the blog, please respond to
this;
1. Having a neat handwriting is important. Please let me
know your stand on this issue.

2. How do I help pupils whose handwriting and untidy and
illegible.

National Day Celebrations At School

2006-08-09T18:53:00.000-07:00

Hi all...

I had such a great time at school watching all the performances.

I thought Primary 5^Commitment did well. Their performance was
just outrageously good. It feels so good to see
them perform as I know that I had once taught them!
So proud of them

It made me feel so 'Singaporean', it does not mean I am not.

So what do you think about the National Day celebrations?

Have to go now... I have HDB appointment.

Will write more when I come back.

MOE Healthy Lifestyle Day

2006-08-05T00:03:00.000-07:00

I woke up early this Saturday morning to go for the walk.

Left home at about 6.55 a.m. I was lucky that the bus came
as I was approaching the bus stop. I reached Tampines
Interchange at about 7.15 a.m. I did not want to be an
eager beaver and decided to walk from Tampines Interchange
to Tampines JC. It was a long but refreshing walk.

When I reached Tampines JC, fond memories flooded my mind.
It transported to a time when I was a student there. As I entered
the college, I remembered the 'gate'. It still looked the same. It was
the same gate that my friends and I squeezed out from when we had
to stay late to finish Student's Council work. I had such fond memories
of the place. Every inch of the school reminded me of the great time
I had. The school on the whole did not change much.

When I reached the stadium, I was torn on whether to run or walk.
I decided to go to the toilet to ponder (it is not what you think?? I just
needed to go somewhere to decide if I should walk or run.

I reached a decision, I was going to walk. I was not convinced that
I was able to complete the 1.6 km run in 12 minutes.

I then walked. I did not have to push myself. I walked 5 rounds of
the field and completed it in 18.16s. It was better than last year. I walked
4 rounds and completed it in 18.56s. Not that bad!

After the walk, I had to get my heartbeat. I was all sweaty and wet.
But it had to be done. My heartbeat was 112. Not that bad either.

After walking, we ate! I was careful enough as not to eat alot. At the
back of my mind, it was always.. after exercise you eat... not a good
habit.

Then I decided to walk to Interchange to take bus number 27 home.
I walked with Ernie. I did not feel tired because I had company.

Now, I don't feel like doing anything but sleep. After I wake up, I will mark
some books! What a thing to do on a Saturday!

I am going to sleep now. Will write again if I have the time tomorrow.

2006-08-01T05:00:00.000-07:00

Nothing much happened the past two days except
for my son's birthday celebrations.

Today, we had class presentation.

Abbas and his group did quite well. As expected.

However, I felt there was not sufficient explanation
on the topic of collective nouns. I gave the group
another chance to present it to the class on Thursday,
I think so. My memory is failing me.

I am looking forward to Thursday, the pupils are
presenting comprehension questions based on Little
Red Dot.

Before I forget, Lupita and Veronica (the Indonesian pupils
that visited the school!! Remember), message me. They are
such nice kids.

Till next time... Tata

James & The Giant Peach

2006-07-28T10:49:00.000-07:00

Could not sleep.... so I decided to blog.

Pupils in class had a wonderful time. (That's what I choose to think!)

We watched, James and the Giant Peach.
It is one of the stories found in their English
worksheets.

It was like at the movies.
Pupils were allowed to bring popcorn and chips,
the only thing missing was the fizzy drinks.

I am glad that pupils were able to identify the
characters in the story.

I am going to get them to write a change in the
ending of the story.

I guess, when I was growing up, I remembered
reading Nancy Drew and Secret Seven. It was
fun reading those books. It feels like you are
transported into another dimension.

I still read now, however, not as often as I would
like to . My preference has slightly change. I now
read biography of famous people and motivational
books. I know... it is quite boring.... I am getting old
as a result, I read 'old people' books. Ha ha.

Actually, I am not that old... only seventeen :)

I also love reading stories written by J.K.Rowling.
I am amazed at how she manage to create a
phenomenal craze for her books. I have all the
books written by her.

I just remembered. It will be a busy weekend for me.
Trying to juggle between becoming a good mother and
teacher. It is my son's birthday this Monday. Since I
am working very hard on that day. My husband and
I decided to celebrate his birthday this weekend.
Nothing that special... just spending time together as
a family, do what comes naturally . . . eat.

This is making me sleepy. I am going to sleep now.
Will write more tomorrow. Cheers.

Visit by the Indonesian Pupils

2006-07-28T06:08:00.000-07:00

The visit actually happened about a month ago.

5 pupils from Indonesia visited the school.
I had the honour of hosting them for two days.
They were Lupita, Jessica, Veronica, Randy and .How Di

They reported at about ten in the morning and
stayed on till the end of the day.

During their stay, they were paired with buddies to
show them around.

On their first day, they experienced my Art lesson
with the class. I had the class do finger painting.

They were not able to complete the work but .... they were allowed
to bring back what they have done. They looked happy.
I hope they have gained something!!!

On the second day, they reported at the same time.
This time, they were brought to the computer lab
for an IT enhanced lesson. I helped Jessica to create
her own e-mail address.

I wish they had stayed longer...
They were just 'warming up' and had to leave.
They are just wonderful kids.

The pupils enjoyed helping and showing them around.

That's all for now. Hope they are well. My pupils and I
miss them a lot.

To Get Angry or Not Is The Question

2006-07-27T01:16:00.000-07:00

I have been very angry with the pupils lately.

They just get on my nerves. They don't pay
attention when I am teaching. I have reminded
them time and again.

I get frustrated because they don't listen.

When I get home and reflect... I regretted
scolding them.

Heritage Tour to BattleBox

2006-07-26T07:05:00.000-07:00

Hi !

What a tiring day!!!

Today, I brought pupils to the BattleBox.

My pupils were actually 'scared' because it was
dark in there. I joked with them that I would
hold their hand if they were scared. It worked,
no one mentioned that they were afraid. A few
of them thought the figures were real. I had to
assure these pupils that they are made from wax.

After we left the Battlebox, I held some of the girls'
hand. They were shy! I guess it is considered 'not hip'
to be seen holding a teacher's hand. I did it just to see
the pupils' reaction. Ha! Ha!

Let's talk about what the pupils have learnt.

I am very sure they have learnt alot from the
visit. Among other things, and most important is,
the history of Singapore. It was an eye opener.
It was like a time capsule. These pupils were brought
back to the year 1942. The got to see and experience
the events that lead to the fall of Singapore to the
Japanese.

Apart from that, pupils were brought around the
area. They went to the Spice Garden and saw
the artifacts that were dug up in that area.

I guess these pupils are really fortunate. When I
was their age, there was no Battlebox or Sentosa Wax
Museum. I only read about the fall of Singapore
when I was in Secondary 3!

The pupils are going to write their reflections on the
visit (I asked them to!!).

By the way, went shopping and bought new blouses.
It is getting late.. I have to go now.

Blogs and more blogs

2006-07-25T06:26:00.000-07:00

Back so soon!!!

Yup! I need to pen this down.

Just went to look at all the comments written
by my pupils. I visited their blogs. Wow!!

I was totally taken away by complexity of
their blogs with all the links and what not. I don't remember
teaching them those things !!!

However, I am glad that they have taken it upon themselves
to improve their blogs. Some even got their friends to help them.
I am speechless when I visit some of their blogs.

They really have come a long long way since I took them in
January. There were some who did not even have e-mail
address! Now they chat on MSN.

They tried to get me to chat using MSN...
It was a definite no. It is not that I can't
but more of I don't want to. I won't be able
to do work.

That's all folks.

See you next time!!! Bye
This time it's for real.

National Day Project

2006-07-25T05:51:00.000-07:00

Hi all,

Currently, my pupils are embarking on an animation
project.

Pupils have been working on it for the past week.

I promised to spend the pupils who worked on the
project at McDonald's this Thursday. I will be broke
after that as there are more than 10 of them.

I am truly grateful to these pupils who stayed behind
after school to complete the animation project despite
other school commitment.

I will put up the pictures of the pupils who are involved
in the project on the blog. The results are encouraging.

Their completed projects will be converted into video file
and placed on the School's TV Message System.(That's my job!!!)

Can't wait to show it to the rest of the school. True to our class
motto, taken from Adidas, "Impossible is nothing!"

Cheerio for now!

Powerpoint Games in Class

2006-07-20T18:18:00.000-07:00

Hi It is me again.

In Term3 Wk2, my class pupils did
Comprehension questions using the Little Red Dot.

Pupils were divided into groups of 4.
Pupils were given the choice of Powerpoint
Games that they would like to use.
Pupils came up with Comprehension
Questions based on the articles in the Little Red Dot.

I invited classes in the level to come to play the 'Game', while
my pupils acted as Game masters.

Both the participants and game masters enjoyed themselves.
The pupils were actually having fun while learning.
That was my greates joy.

Hi All

2006-07-20T17:54:00.000-07:00

Yo! Yo Yo! What's up.
It sounds so formal because I have
to model good English although I am
writing on the blog.

Have been very busy in school. (Excuses!)

Many things had happen, both good and bad.

I just would like to share something about my class.

The pupils are beginning to see the 'light'.

Allow me to explain...

At the beginning of the year, I had difficulty marking
their Science papers. I had repeatedly explain to
them, answering Science questions is different from
answering a comprehension question.

Science questions requires a child to sometimes
make reference to the concept. After repeated 'nagging',
finally some of them were able to answer it well.

I fell a sense of achievement.

By the way, I promise to update my blog regularly.
I have pictures to put up.
Will put it up soon.

Jelly Making

2006-03-10T15:51:00.000-08:00

Hi all,

It is me again. This time... my class and I did something fun.

We made jelly. We failed the first time we did it. However, we
perservered and tried it one more time. The second time,
we were successful. It turned out better than the first time.

It was a real experience for the kids. They did it all by themselves
without any help. I am so proud of them.

What I would like to impart to them through this activity is that if you fail
do not give up. Try and continue to try. You will succeed one day.

I have their pictures. Will put it in later.

That's all for now!!!!

A Learning Journey

2006-02-28T04:38:00.000-08:00

On Monday, 27 February, Nazlah's sister, Nazurah helped the
class to change their blog wallpaper.

I guess the pupils had lots of fun doing it.
Some had problems, however, there was
always someone who helped.

Looking forward to next Wednesday.
Pupils making ice cream.

Till then Chiao.

Another entry!!!

2006-02-13T02:03:00.000-08:00

I read some of the pupils' journal entry today.
Most of them wrote that I am funny.
Am I really funny?? Sometimes I wonder.

I am glad that my pupils enjoy coming to school.
To me, it is the most important thing.
As long as they enjoy coming to school, they would
love to learn.

I truly enjoy coming to class and teach 4^ Commitment.
They are really a great bunch of kids. Lovable.

The Spirit of I & E

2006-02-02T10:45:00.000-08:00

It has beeb quite a while that I posted an update.

It has been a hectic three weeks, with the Chinese New Year celebrations
and other school related activities.

Pupils are getting used to my style.

However, there are a few who are still struggling.

I will be conducting remedials for them this coming Monday.

Last Wednesday, I divided the class into 2 groups.
They were supposed to choose a group leader.
Boy! It was a storm in the tea cup.

My Observation is that they need more time to see the good in their
friends. They also need to look at things beyond friendship. They must
be clear in their objective. They need to really work towards working
together.

Today, I will try to tell them what their areas of improvements are.

Chiao for now

Setting up a blog

2006-01-23T19:17:00.000-08:00

Hi there!!!

I am currently teaching, 4^ Commitment.
They are a lively bunch.
Easily excitable.

Planned to put laptops in the classroom for the
pupils. Using the laptops they can assess the internet.

I've learnt quite a bit about my new pupils.
Looking forward to learn more.