Stewie Griffin

Ooooooh I see you got some pie!You know pie doesn't taste well without Coolwhip!Pie tastes better with Coolwhip , Coolwhip tastes better with pie! This line may seem alien to some of you especially the humans who seldom lay their eyes on television programmes or only watcht the News. ( Please Note that this is a mutual understanding and no references of any persona in our class is contained in this blog post).

Recently , I was scrolling through the channels on my 3 year old StarHub Box set.Frankly , its once glittering metallic jacket around his body has been contaminated by dust , bacteria and other alien household alike. Similarly , boredom started to rise in my as repeated shows get screened on the channels.Click , Click , Click , every push of the button just welcomed the whims of boerdon to come knocking to my door.

Shooter , The Incerdibles , Finding Nemo , Encore of PCK , I have watched these shows numerous times , some of the scenes still lingers in my head. Then , through a puff of magic and fantastical potions , ok , just kidding. The highly popular US Tv Channel , FOX popped up on the screen. The pixels on the TV screen metomorphised into an episode of Family Guy. Initially , I was sceptical about this whos , I thought it was an imitation of the Simpsons. Little did I know it was a World of Difference ; Fmaily Guy was definitely a more matured show (Emphasis that it is not R-Rated or whatsoever) which fitted smoothly to my liking.

The occasional references to famous characters such as Ronald Reagan and even Miley Cyrus was sometimes the main part of the episode though majority of the times , these characters were ridiculed by the imagination of the shows which was just too hilarious , I doubt there is any antidote for such a whimsical comedy.

Its dialogue are increasinlgy catchy such as Coolwhip! and even Lois! These letters of fun linger in my mind , floating endlessly through the Neurons , ok , just kiddig,What I am trying to convey is that these phrases have integrated as a part of my social life.

If you have an open mind for matured themes ( NOT R-RATED) and a need for exhillirating laughters , Family Guy is the show for you! Now on DemandTV! Ok , just kidding.

East Zone Science Carnival

All I can say is that the Science Carnival was extremely fun , it was held at Victoria Junior College and our school provided one-way transport for us. Though we were only there for 2.5 hours , it was a memorable experience , especially a long lasting impression from our chairman , Zhu Hua Ying. I went to the Science fair with my fellow friends : Yue Jun , Hua Ying , Jarret and Cong Yang.

A weird reason of excitement appeared even before we arrived at VJC. ( Escaping from Hua Ying is a totally different matter). Despite the long journey of the bus ride( It lasted for about 25 mins approximately), there were alot of matters for us to talk about which was fantastic in a different manner , well , there were the occasional laughters.

When we arrived at the compound , we were lost in the locations of our venues as this school environment was alien to us, similar to a gold fish swimming endlessly in the sea.. Realization dawned that we had a free period of half an hour to explore the surroundings. All of us were eager to discover the hooks and cranny of the compound.

We were playful; While Hua Ying was at the toilet , we tried to run away from him and leave him in the wilderness. Our tactful chairman probably panicked but in the end found his gang.That was the spark which ignited the bon fire for Hua Ying.(Hints at the following events)

We then proceeded to our designated stations , such as the Nano Technology Lab which mainly showcases Biological demonstrations. For instance , at an exhibition of using a medical optical device to look in the back of one's eye , we forced Hua Ying to be the "guinea pig" , all smiles were on our faces!We repeated the same phenomenon for every other exhibition and he then came up with a memorable trademark quote which still lingers in my head "我要打人了！“

Of course , putting the fun and laughter aside , we did walk down memory lane as we encountered several science explanations which we learnt from Mrs Teo Chin Chew , affirmatively one of the the best Science teachers we ever had. This was in the case of starch ; a white mixture in which when force was applied to it , the liquid would turn rock solid.We also engaged in a form of "chemical reaction" game , this refreshed our memory of ionic reactions which we learnt from Mr Kong=D.

Arguably , the last section of the fair was the most fascinating to me , it truly immersed the five of us into the world of astronomy. We crawled in an inflatable planetary and were welcomed by the familiar shade of orange : A staff of the Singapore Science Center. Once I caught a glimpse of a huge glass ball filled with seemingly endless glowing sparkles and a laser pointer emanating a "V" shape , I knew were in for a show.

I was right . Once the lights went out and darkness took its place , stars started to fill the planetary.Though we knew that they were not real , it seemed extremely lifelike that I literally tried to reach out , attempting to grab s star!My jaw dropped and I stared in awe at the hundreds of stars that filled our night skies-the planetary. The reason why we could not see such a wonderful galaxy of stars was due to light pollution.

Overall , the science fair was exhilarating! The aftremath , I heard, was the rest of the Acerians leading Hua Ying to a wrong Bus Stop deliberately....you could get more details from Yue Jun!( I left the Science Fair early).

Disabled Punjab Children : Uranium Contamination

I recently came across an article at www.channelnewsasia.com titled "Doctors link uranium contamination to disabled Punjab children".These 8 words shocked me and left the reader in disbelief.Immediately , the term known as environment struck me , it was the bridge of the cause regarding Uranium contamination in Punjabi,India.

Later , the article explains that the reason for the increasing number of Punjabi children having a slow mental development , cerebral palsy and even epilepsy was due to the uranium and other toxic chemicals polluting India's soil in the country's urbanization attempt.

The following statement would leave you appalled : The disabled children not only possess uranium in their bodies but also a myriad of toxins such as arsenic and mercury! Such harmful substances residing in a human body caused deformities in the child and in my opinion , would cause an innocent soul who has not even experience the world a lifetime of agony , stripping him of the adventure of exploration etc. It is extremely saddening for such an occurrence , they are not even given an opportunity to savour the wonderful phenomenons of the world.

Now , Uranium is used in the production of nuclear weapons and combined with the increased amount of pesticides used in the state Punjabi, could you imagine the effects it would yearn from its violent chemical nature on a human body lest a infant's body?Deformities would be rampant , not to mention an eternal impact psychologically and physically.

Yes , India is in its "green revolution" but I feel that India needs to focus more on districts such as Punjabi which is infected with chemicals to prevent anymore suffering and environmental destruction.

Not only the residents are affected due to this "man-made" modification on the environment , there is a serious long term effect : Uranium has a life span of close to a billion years , thus environmental degradation would occur consistently along with more deaths and deformities!

Shouldn't life be treasured despite the increasing need for nuclear energy and even modern warfare weapons?

Post your views in the comment box below.=D

Image : http://nyhetsbildet.wordpress.com/2009/07/21/poison-dust-a-new-look-at-u-s-radioactive-weapons/

Link to Article : http://www.channelnewsasia.com/stories/southasia/view/1070058/1/.html


All sources obtained from the Channel News Asia ( CNA )

My Views : The World Cup

Hi Guys, Sorry for not posting in a long time.Period.

Now,on to one of the greatest sporting events of history,one whose name beckons awe from even a sport-illiterate.Yes, I admit that this blog-post is late but reality will look you in the face and remark : The 2010 World Cup Final held in South Africa has just arrived.No kidding.The long awaited game which occurs every 4 years would be shown live on Channel 5 and World Cup channels if you fanatics subscribe to it , that is.(Quirky Fact : My Parents could not survive without the World Cup but then again , I was no exception.)

Frankly speaking, the later paragraphs weaved from my keyboard could be an insult or pain to other football fans,discretion is advised if you would want to continue reading but please , accept my opinion with an open-mind. I felt that this World Cup was not what the world really expected.Take for instance , the Final two contestants are Spain and Netherlands.Then again , I emphasise on accepting my blog post with an open mind,otherwise , click the "X" button for a reassuring exit.

At the start of the World Cup , in a hypothetical context , what if someone remarked "The Finals would be between the Dutch and the Spanish".You might stare at the person with a quizzical look combined with furrowed brows and maybe in a Singaporean context "HUH?".Yes , reader believe me , self questioning could be the key to the truth : Would you believe what that person just said? ( Ignore the mystical animals such as a marine creature who is a soccer wizard for now).

But then again , the Jabulani Ball , the UEFA Ball and even the EPL ball are all round , anything can happen in soccer match.I sincerely believe in that principal.The truth which I struggle to grapple with are the final contestants-Neither have won the World Cup nor are deemed "the next Brazil".But after 139 goals and a bunch of exhilarating , jaw dropping (*Hints at the strange number of own goals in the 2010 World Cup*) matches , where were the favorites?Italy were kicked out in the round of 32?France too?Brazil was kicked out of the Quarter Finals?Germany lost to Serbia in an early match?

The French pushed the "Self-Destruct" button by refusing to train ?

If we could predict the future , 80% of us would never believe such an occurrence.But believe it . This World Cup has proved to us one thing:Never underestimate the teams , even those who have never won the World Cup for all you know , the World Cup could be won by 11 men who have never touched the infinite-carat gold trophy nor savoured its victory.Sweet.

Ok , fine , it will happen tonight.

Just a quirky fact here : Germany played fantastically this World Cup . I feel they are a potential winner for the future World Cups .

*AGAIN, I stress the importance of accepting this with an open mind.*

Gary Leong

E- Learning Poetry Analysis ( Children in the Darkness)

Report – Children in the Darkness (Conflict)
Background: This conflict mainly takes place in Vietnam in year 2009, nearly 40 years after the Vietnam War. The poet, Henry M Bechtold used to be serving in the Vietnam War and frequently visits it as his soul lives there, according to his biography. He was in his hotel in Saigon and discovered the news of a small boy with an automatic rifle flashed in the news channel. This was probably a child soldier in present day Vietnam and thus he wrote a poem about it.
Poem Analysis (Annex A) –Steps in Analysis
1. Point of View (Evidence): The voice of the speaker is dramatised as seen from the repetition of “Could We” which questions the speaker consistently . The speaker acts as a sense of morale which disagrees completely with child soldiers as seen from “There are Children in the darkness Who have not Seen the Light”. The tone of the speaker is strong and demanding as seen from “With their life and blood be poured Down some endless thirsty hole”. He offers a intellectual yet morale Point of View in a social context as seen from the relentless self questioning and his choice of diction and the usage of repetition – “There are children in the darkness” and “Back into the darkness”.

2. Point of View (Elaboration): The speaker’s has a morale sense of duty with a mindset of rightful justice as seen from his voice being dramatised inside the poem due to the consistent repetition. The speaker feels the urgent need to cultivate child soldiers to realise their childhood instead of being under the influence of violence at such a tender young age which rips them off their innocence which acts as a vital hope in a society marred with constant violence . The speaker’s intellectual Point of View acts is found in the poem as his relentless desire to help these child soldiers regain their innocence is a signal for justice and righteousness, the speaker also expresses the urgency for a change as seen from his Point Of View as seen from his harsh “lash” on war and its violence.

3. Situation and Setting (Evidence): The setting is a combination of both emotions and social. This can be seen from “Chalk” and “Blackboard” which in turn changes to “war”, “blood” and “darkness”, implying the educational context of society metamorphoses into a violent adult social context for these children. Child soldiers are popping up more and more in the Vietnamese society. The nature of the context psychological as seen from “Or will a war consume them” and “Their body and their soul”.


4. Situation and Setting (Elaboration): The central ideas of the poem are raised through the emotional and social setting – they are mainly violence and the loss of innocence of a child due to him being a child soldier. The fact that it is emotional is mainly because it is sad and disheartening for the speaker to discover that young children have already been forcefully immersed in the adult world of violence, losing their innocence which is rare in such a violent society, the speaker knows that innocence is hope in the world but it is now gone, thus sending a message of urgency to the world in this poem . More and more child soldiers are appearing in the Vietnamese society, signalling the fact that the poet suppresses the child aspect of innocence as it is now gone and he magnifies, foregrounds the aspect of violence within the child soldiers, implying the great amount of corruption in the society.

5. Language/ Diction (Evidence) : There is the usage of figurative language, mainly metaphors , symbols , personification and also repetition . Metaphors are used in the sense that innocence is depicted as a door which needs a key, representing education to unlock it as seen from – “Chalk and Blackboards will not be” and “To this door there is no key”. War is personified as a human who consumes the child’s souls – “Or will a war consume them” and “Their body and their soul”. Darkness symbolises the child’s entering the adult world of violence light symbolises a child’s rightful innocence.


6. Language/ Diction ( Elaboration ) : The poet’s colloquial usage of language is effective in conveying the meaning of the poem and the language is used to reveal the truth that child soldiers should be rightfully entitled to their innocence and a child’s world instead of being forcefully pushed into the world of violence.

7. Personal Response (Evidence) : I acquire a strong message from this poem : Violence wrecks us all causing us to lose any sign of humanity in all of us.
8. Personal Response (Elaboration) : This poem effectively shows the horror and how sinister violence is , it is even capable of taking over a pure soul , a child’s soul which is extremely frightening , the fact that even a child who has not really seen nor experienced the real world out there is already overwhelmed with violence signifies one thing : Once you immerse into violence , there is ultimately no path out nor a way out , it will eventually cause you to lose your humanity.

Done by: Gary Leong (16)
Class: 2A1

E-Learning Language Arts Assignment : Poetry Analysis

Report – Rainbow Death Conflict
This conflict occurred during the Vietnam War from 1962 to 1971. The reason this conflict was significant both to the Vietnamese and the Americans was because of the Americans engaging in Herbicidal Warfare with their gas weapon code named “Agent Orange” (Termed by colour). According to Wikipedia “Agent Orange is the code name for a herbicide and defoliant—contaminated with TCDD—used by the U.S. military in its Herbicidal Warfare program during the Vietnam War”. This Herbicide weapon cased much agony and deaths of the Vietnamese people due to its horrific effects – Birth Defects and disabilities. Agent Orange was by far the most widely used herbicide in the range of herbicides developed by the American Army called “Rainbow Herbicides” which ranged from Agent Blue to Agent White. Agent Orange resulted in 400,000 deaths and disabilities along with 500,000 children born with birth defects.

Analysis of Rainbow Death
1(a) Point of View (Elaboration): This poem is written in an intellectual point of view which zooms in the situation as a whole, this point of view sufficiently shows the horrors and pain the Americans had caused even on the innocent Vietnamese people and thus magnifies their wrongdoing and urgent need to stop such herbicide warfare to prevent any more agony to occur. It could also be said that it is written in a third person point of view because “America” which is repeated in the poem for its wrong acts from their herbicide weapon could instead be personified as another person in the poem.

1(b) Point of View (Evidence): “America did not foresee”, “Now Thinking Twice?”, “Nefariously America led astray”.

2(a) Situation and Setting (Elaboration): The situation as stated in “Rainbow Death” is extremely dire and poses as a great threat to the Vietnamese people and this situation takes place in a setting combining both history ( “New step towards Herbicide Warfare for the Americans”) and agony ( Horrific effects of Agent Orange). The nature of this conflict is a combination of ethics and social characteristics.

2(b) Situation and Setting (Elaboration) : “ America did not foresee” and “
Green,pink,purple and other colour deaths potpourri” sufficiently shows that America did not truly expect that the effects of their different coloured herbicides would be so horrific but it also shows the element of development of their herbicides weapons because the development of Rainbow Herbicides effectively meant advancement in such a warfare , the success could also be derived from the horrific effects of the herbicides. “Generations untold WILL pay”-“Execrable effects of the Orange Spray” shows that the horrific effects of the “Agent Orange” Spray will be passed on to the next generation of Vietnamese people ,implying birth defects of the many children about to be born. Thus , there is a signal for low ethic level of the Americans as they did not care for the next generation and also a social signal as the conflict involving the herbicides will leave a mark , permanently scar society forever (psychologically affect the Vietnamese and the Americans).

3(a) Language and Diction ( Elaboration ) : There is a rhyme scheme in the poem of ABAB which is a form of language in the poem. It ensures the smooth flowing of sentences to sentences. More importantly, the Language could successfully convey the poet’s main message as it is used to reveal the truth behind the American’s herbicidal weapons in the Vietnam War. There is little imagery inside the poem though personification is used as America was personified as a person causing untold suffering towards the American people. The Diction sufficiently magnifies the speaker’s tone which is seemingly sarcastic.

3(b) Language and Diction (Evidence) : “America did not foresee” and “Now thinking twice?” had sufficiently established the tone of sarcasm – Despite America not being able to foresee the pain and agony the herbicides would cause to the people to such a great extent , they failed to think twice as seen from the “?” , implying that even after the Americans realised the horrific effects f=of herbicidal warfare ( Rainbow Sprays ) , they continued to implement such a measure , signifying their little regret and guiltiness. Moreover, “Nefariously America Led astray” and “Generations untold will PAY” implies more of a tone of sarcasm and being adamant from reality – America consistently implemented herbicidal warfare which led to America going against its principle of freedom and morale, America’s thirst t defeat the enemy had overwhelmed their principals which in turn will cause the birth defects and disabilities of future generations of the Vietnamese people.

4(a) Personal Response (Elaboration): I finally learnt an important principal : We should never resolve to war and all matter should instead be resolved diplomatically. The poem sufficiently magnifies the horrors and agony war could cause and so the disappearance of what we termed as a human if we continue on a bloodthirsty quest to start wars and wipe out our enemy without any consideration of the pain that would be implemented on them. War causes us to override our life principals , the pillars which create our conscience and war ultimately unleashes the monster within all of us.

4 (b) Personal Response (Evidence) : The key evidence that support my views are “Nefariously America Led astray” and “Generations untold will PAY”.
Bibliography: http://www.warpoetry.co.uk/2010warpoetry.html



Done by : Gary Leong (16)
Class : 2A1

The King of Pop: Michael Joseph Jackson

Pop.The King of Pop.Wow.This are my initial thoughts on the recently deceased Michael Jackson,the fundamental pillar and ultimate drive,generator in the evolution of Pop.Ultimately,he is the one and only pioneer.His costume glistens in the light,his voices act as a temporary absolute magnet,the magnificent attraction utterly emanated towards the brains of humans.Eyes dart to one focused spot,eagerness swimming in us,acting as a hypnotising magical potion.His moves are just dazzling,his smiles melts our hearts,the infusion of dance and music is a marvellous combination,Who can do that?The King of Pop.If you feel that I am exaggerating,think twice.His renowned Moonwalk moves was alien to the world in the 1970s and this groundbreaking,creative,eye- bogging move paved the way in the evolution of dance,it is none other than the moon walker.His sleek black shoes sliding seamlessly across the polished ground,an organic snake slithering smoothly across the terrain,Michael effortlessly achieves this,his unique move a signature trademark which acted as the spring,propelling him to the peak of his career.Many dancers have imitated such a move but trust me,mimicking the King's movement is pretty difficult.There is more than meets the eye.Our television screen weaves the pixels into a moonwalk,he does it instinctively,the accountability of natural talent seems feasible,but the true essence of this creation:Determination.I feel that the Moon walker which took the world by storm was born in a puff of hard work,consistent practice and a hybrid of love and passion.Articulate drawings of the moon walker has been released:The degree in which the foot is required to be placed;the exact position of the shoe needed to bent;the gradient of the heel.Such information is imperative and essential in churning the move,the legend.This was the very first action which caught my eyes and had it glued to the screen.My heart palpitated.Robotic,I hastily took a seat and stared at the glimmering box,glistening with for once beautifully,fantastically,electrical-weaved pixels.I was shocked at such a sight.The first thought that zipped thorough my mind"Is that even physically possible?How did he do that?I desperately flipped the book titled"Michael Jackson",it acting as a forlorn child,collecting grimly dust mites,penetrating the legend's printed image.I wiped the dust away in frustration and immersed myself in the pages.Flicking my computer ON,Google was now my best,technologically advance pal.Pages on Michael Jackson popped out.His music leaves me in awe.His high voice and pitch leaves in me in a state of amazement,my fingers constantly clicking on the mouse,attempting to savour more goodness(Great Music is hard to find these days).Black or White, Man in the Mirror,This is it,We are the World,You are not Alone,these song titles ring a bell in your head?Igniting a series of flows down memory lane?The lyrics are a meaningful set of letters,arranged meticulously by the King OF Pop.His songs mainly revolve around the theme of peace and the eradication of suffering.His songs are the representative of the Dove,his songs echoes down the desolate corridor,a messenger and guidance of hope.
Rising from the rubble of human suffering,it melts our hearts and ignites the hidden kindness in all of us,you and me.Try it for your self.It is disheartening and saddening for the singer to leave this world.Rest assured,his legacy will live on.

Mrs Dubose.(Poem)

My 2ND Learning Profile: Musical

Theme:Courage

Preferred Question:Write a poem on the Tom Robinson Trial / life in May comb/ any other incident.


Mrs Dubose.

Mrs Dubose,Mrs Dubose,
That old crank hag living down the street.
You hate the blacks till your death,
degrades them to utter garbage.
You fail to carry luggage,
and lies in bed like a forgotten baggage.

Mrs Dubose,Mrs Dubose,
your cries towards the Finches
are no more than a signal,
for the death of your flower beds.
Destruction of flowers,
requires repents as blowers,
the winds which cleans up the garden.

Mrs Dubose,Mrs Dubose,
you wanted a special request.
To ask Jem Finch to read to you,
loud and clear.
You finally have a crystal thought,
to eradicate the menace,
which acts as the furnace of life,
the ultimate deception of death,
the one and only morphine.

Mrs Dubose,Mrs Dubose,
you lie in bed seemingly lifeless,
as the drones of Jem Finch,
resounds through your wrinkled ears.
Your hands remained glued to your lap,
desperate for a morphine pat,
your victim reminds you,
of your battle against the drug.

Mrs Dubose,Mrs Dubose,
you want to depart clean.
Not healthy nor fat but to win,
with utmost courage.
The courage that longed to be unlocked,
since you were a little girl,
has been unleashed at the moment.
Alas,the battle has been won.

Mrs Dubose,Mrs Dubose,
you close your eyes,
satisfied as you enter your next journey.

Mrs Duose,Mrs Dubose,
Rest In Peace.

Is Maycomb a Good Place to live in? (Home-Learning Assignment)

My Learning Profile: Linguistic

Main Themes: Courage and Prejudice

Preferred Question: Imagine you are one of the characters. Deliver a speech on what you think of the above question.


Character: Tom Robinson

Speech: I wonder what you folks are wondering about these 2 themes.Well,I am tellin' you my true feelin' .Starting off,the road to courage is my one and only path yonder to take.Courage,I feel consists of mainly physical and morale courgage folks.Cause I personally knew a typical expectation of chillin' out as a morale courage human.Mr Atticus Finch aint no normal folk,he is a true spirit of morale courage.Though I ain't received education as a little black boy,I truly express my grtatiude to Mr Finch.He chooses to fight for justice through his firm belief of yonder equality between we niggers and the white folks.He is is an angel from the very sky.I realise the racial injustice ever since I was a little'boy.I feel courage aint special.Courage havent been displayed by most Maycomb folks.I swear that I told nothing but the truth in the trial.I aint going to succumb to bloody pressure;I decided to tell a truth,nothin' was a lie.I know niggers have been make fun o' agin and agin.I got somethin' to declare:Prejudice is everywhere in righty old Maycomb.It is in the houses,the roads,the towns hall,there aint' no single place that aint' black discirminated.For instance folks,take a common 'xample of a white folk and a black negro.Ultimately,prejuduce acts a the monster yonder down the road,a menance that will hafta' destroy the blacks.Slave is "nigger"",master a white.We are all proper human beings in Maycomb county.A white has feelings,we blacks do too.Physical appearnce aint no lower status,me 'n' you are all America's chillun(children).I sincerely hope that a prejuduce will be eradicated soon to'çome,let the freedom acts as a guidance.Thank You.

My Top 2 Learning Profiles

The multiple intelligence test.In the previous year as a Sec 1 student,we took a similar test under Mr Spelmer.The questions were varied from the 2 tests but my learning profiles are similar: Musical and Linguistic.I feel that the Multiple Intelligence test is highly accurate.I contemplated my 2 personal profiles before I took the test and my predictions were further confirmed by it.I like to listen soothing music as it causes my mood to fluctuate drastically.I like to express myself through all sorts of words as they seem quite fun =D .Overall,the multiple intelligence test captures every body's personality!

Moon Illumination

Today,I looked up at the sky instinctively.Today, a single illuminated object shone in the darkness.Today,I received the shock of my life.The moon appeared as an ENORMOUS object.Moreover,it was not the usual pristine-innocent-white light that emanated from that ancient rock, the substitute was a dull,yellow flickering light.If you ask me,my preferred choice will definitely lie in the joyous,white light.The yellow light does not seem cheerful nor especially assuring.I glimpsed the Moon at approximately 8.23pm.Within minutes,I flipped out my IPhone to check the news-My predictions were affirmative:The moon appeared to be the largest ever seen in 54 years.I was appalled.I had never seen the moon so beckoning and large in my entire life,moreover,superstitious issues could have been raised up in the local forum as this strange phenomenon coincided on the 28 February 2010, the 15Th and last day of the Lunar New Year!Could this be a bad omen,signalling terror to strike?Or is it one of nature's wonder?However,I can assure you that the increased proximity of the moon to our planet we call home caused the recent tsunami warning given off in Asia.Let me enlighten you on this:Tides are created because the Earth and the moon are attracted to each other, just like magnets are attracted to each other. The moon tries to pull at anything on the Earth to bring it closer. But, the Earth is able to hold onto everything except the water. Since the water is always moving, the Earth cannot hold onto it, and the moon is able to pull at it. Each day, there are two high tides and two low tides. The ocean is constantly moving from high tide to low tide, and then back to high tide. There is about 12 hours and 25 minutes between the two high tides. .Since the moon appears to have been drifting closer and closer to Earth today,this affected the magnitude of the waves and so could have increased the likelihood of a tsunami.This is my main message: If you felt that this unusual phenomenon is welcomed daily,think again.

Dragon Ball Z-The Hidden Legend

Anime,the infamous Singaporean slang for Japanese animation.The first thoughts that buzzes through our Singaporean minds of Anime are: Naruto and Bleach. Through long hours of intense hearing of anime conversations(Maybe?),I devised that these 2 series are the most reknonwed among our peers.However,I beg to differ.Ultimately,Dragonball Z is my ideal anime.Every Japanese Anime has a distinct feature present in all characters,it is their signature trademark,it is the Japanese's creator constant source of a money generator.Dragonball Z: Super Saiyans( Humans possessing unlimited power) who could transform into muscled-beings with blazing,orange inferno burning around their body and to top it off with golden hair glistening away,I bet you would try to picture yourself in a Super Saiyan's shoes.Moreover, their attacks are way beyond your imagination.For instance, a full-Powered Kamehameha( a stream of electric blue energy) will be sure to blow you off your chair. Yes,I understand that most of you are thinking"That is so Last year!" or phrasing it in simplistic English "That is so ancient".Well if that is what you think,you better read up.The remastering of Dragon ball Z is coming your way.If you want to obtain the date, there is always the Internet.

Well,that's all I have to say.Dragon ball Z Animation is sure to keep your eyes glued to the screen.

Fuji Apple,The Explosion Fruity Craze

Hmmm.....Fuji Apple...mmmmmmmmm.Oh,yes,you as the reader is probably processing this particular thought:This person must be a lunatic.But,please,I am not insane,the next hundred words which would act as my indifferent clones will be able to convince you that I am perfectly sane.So,I urge you to continue.
Well,Fuji Apple.Does these 2 words seem familiar to you?Does it ring a bell in your head or activates an alarm in your head:Rejoice!I got it!Or does it cause you to have a quizzical look on your face along with frowned brows,leisurely stroking your chin,muttering "What is the baboon's name is that?"Well, congratulations unsure reader,you have just found the perfect remedy.Fuji Apple is not sweet,scented-crimson,juicy apple ingenious to the tall rock,Mount Fuji.It is a soft-drink or should I say a Pokka-soft drink.See the Link between Pokka and Fuji?My first encounter with the Fuji Apple Soft Drink is still riveted to my brain,acting as soft,flavoured apples which seem to possess eternal durability.I shuffled towards the Indian Drink Stall,scouring for a refreshing drink other than the "Uniquely Singaporean Soft Drink" aka Coca-Cola.I know,grins are probably forming on everyone of your faces,you teeth brandishing a Coke glee that is populating internationally.Ok,back to my journey.A shade of glittering red dazzled in the sun.Having sudden rejuvenated eyes,I directed my vision to the peculiar,Eco-decorated "Fuji-Apple" can,glistening in the softly lit lamp which was hovering dangerously over a makeshift table.Eager to seize a golden opportunity,my taste buds were ravenous for a new drink.Without hesitation,I inquired politely for my prize.After the exchange of 1 single golden coined between 2 hands,I instantaneously prised the can open and gurgled its contents.
Now let me warn you,the following words might make you salivate uncontrollably with hallucination of cans of Fuji Apple floating around your already crammed,stressed head.Well,if you dare,go ahead,be my utmost pleasure.The golden drink fizzled and sizzled in my coarse throat,momentarily sending a course of adrenaline and electricity shooting as a missile though my body,determined to find escape from a human host.The gas bubbled in my mouth,tiny explosions of sheer enjoyment raining over my dried taste buds,the apple had suddenly metamorphosed into liquid state through seasoned factory machines.It is a ...wow.That experience was unforgettable,it was still firmly etched into my brain,my emotions starting to churn as I longed to dash towards a drink store and purchase my "cup of tea".Reader,please believe me,try a sip.Addiction is a natural characteristic of drinking.
Take the risk.

Primary 6 NYPS Student Leader

Nanyang Primary School brings back fond memories.The 6 years have passed within the blink of an eye and yet an everlasting memory of my former Primary school resides in my very brain.The alluring, sea-blue carpets of the rubberized-halls,a myriad of colours donned every con er of a poster,the whiff of freshly-churned worksheets and the comfortable whirring of a photocopy machine is enough to rekindle the times I spent there.
Instinctively,the moment Mr Chew posted an SMB message on volunteering to be a Student leader for the impending Primary 6 camp, my eyes sparkled instantaneously and I leapt for the golden opportunity.A chance to revisit the buildings of childhood and innocence (OK,I am not implying that our class is too matured but maybe a little) was definitely my cup of tea.Briefing was scheduled on Saturday from 9am to 11pm.Time flew past.Soon I found myself donned in the fiery colours of a Hwa Chong P.E attire strolling leisurely in the NYPS campus.Curious as a child, my eyes darted consistently from corner to corner without hesitation,similar to a fish out of water and soon devised that there were no new refreshing additions to the school,other than a refurbished mahogany table located on the third floor.

Suddenly,I just marvelled and took note of the little snippets of the school that I had carelessly overlooked in my years here.In the Interaction Room, a pristine whiteboard may look common on the surface but by applying a slight push, it revealed to be a swivelled door,leading to an enclosed room dominated by electric-blue windows.An unexpected detour in a restroom soon found myself staring quizzically at a extra gleaming washing basin that I had just discovered!I grinned at this contraption,feeling satisfied.

Being a Student leader for the upcoming Primary 6 camp is an enriching,refreshing opportunity.Possessing such experiences as a Prefect in NYPS and AVA Prefect was the fuel which drove me to click "A" on the message board.Yes, I would miss lessons on Monday and Tuesday but I guess it was worth it. =D

School,School and More School

Yes,school the forbidden 5 letter- word which may be deemed poison to certain habit ants of Earth or freshly-scene ted whiffs of flowers.Stepping back into the the world of constantly-churning worksheets,sudden projects popping up-our daily frustration petrol and the existence of tests is basically our school lives.Or should we say, for every Singaporean Student.Soaring heights of stress accumulate on our backs instinctively.we grumble and we trudge through the legion of worksheets issued to us by the authoritative figures,teachers.Rest can no longer be crammed in our schedule which was filled to the brim.The creaking of the school doors,the resounding signal of the recess bell,the momentum of a sea of students sliding past school corridors are nothing but empty noises.Really,who invented school?The constant droning of the teachers acting as a broken recorder.Sigh,School.However,the grass is always greener on the other side.School,such a wondrous creation!We readily step into the realm of knowledge,eagerly filling up our minds with more hard disk space in a positive manner.We constantly immerse ourselves in numbers,weaved words,exhilarating experiments(Probably for the Secondary 4 students) and yet face life in school as a day of relaxation.Homework act as nifty,portable version of school.Carrying them around would brighten our faces.We seem to have an overwhelming desire for more worksheets,stress is only the height of a stool.School had naturally,successfully integrated into our bustling Singaporean lives.Students with a positive learning attitude would only exclaim in unis ion "For School-Rejoice!Remember!Re-experience"These are their 3 R'S.
Yet,some of us just treat school as pure torture.I may not have an overwhelming Intelligent Quotation of prodigy scientist Albert Einstein but I estimate 85% of students have such a mindset.A pity isn't it?Reasons are pretty obvious.For starters,the familiar,sweet music of Star Wars lingering in our living room act as a human magnet,somehow fulfilling our desire to relax or in a Singaporean slang:Slack.We have been brainwashed by an object with utter unimportance:TV.TV is the control,we are the robots.Secondly,a computer may be deemed as a student's best friends in a negative manner.These are the routine of a student:Log in.MSN.Sound the horn on highly-addictive mouse hunt.Check the trap.Start a game called Ghost-trappers.Time whizzes past.3 hours past.Time made a fool of us.Scream.Frustrated.Stared at worksheets.Mind blank.Scribbled worksheets.Reprimand from form teachers.School is prison.Period.
Why can't students fight the temptation of sounding the horn?Would 1 single click on a make-be live,pixellised horn ruin our day and inevitably rip us emotionally?Would the flying fingers sending signals to MSN make your day?Computer may be deemed a technologically-advanced tool made for the greater of mankind but for some us,sadly it is not.Listed above are two reasons for the burning hatred of student that exists in their very hearts.Just remember:Enjoy School.End.

Special Thanks to: http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3571/3413411700_1de8699dbd.jpg

Preparation for HCI The End Of Year Examinations 2009

Strand 1 Paper 1-Free Essay situational writing
I know that I would have to complete a narrative essay and a formal letter within 1hr 45 mins.Time is short and this is how I would allocate the time:
1.Narrative Essay-Approximately 1 hr(Includes proofreading)
2.Formal letter-Approximately 45 mins(includes proofreading)
My preparation for Paper 1:
1.Read through the narrative practices done over the course of the year.
2.Look through the mistakes and identify key points that should be committed in the paper.
3.Identify the mistakes and try to avoid them during the exam.
4.Read through practices done on Letter Of Request and Letter of Complaint.
5.Memorise the letter format such as how the address should be presented etc.
6.Identify the key points of writing a formal letter such as the tone of the letter,use of language etc.
7.After the first try,attempt these steps one final time before the Paper 1.

Strand 1 Paper 2-Comprehension,vocabulary,summary(1hr 45 mins)
Time spent:
1.Comprehension+Vocabulary:Approximately 50 mins(including check)
2.Summary:Approximately 50 mins(including check)
My preparation for Paper 2:
1.Read through the tests and practices on Comprehension,vocabulary and summary.
2.Identify weak points in each area and identify a solution.For example,no long answers but short,straightforward answers.
3.Take note of common mistakes in this area of Language Arts,for example,Take note of the tense used in the question.(Past,present tense etc.)
4.Take note of notes copied in the practices and interpret them.
5.Attempt these steps twice.

Literature Strand 1-Unseen Prose or poem,Novel-Animal Farm(1hr 45 mins)
Time allocated for each area:
1.Unseen Prose or Poem:Approximately 1 hr(Including check)
2.Novel-Animal Farm:Approximately 45 mins(Including check)

My preparation for the Literature Paper:
1.Read through practices and tests done over the year on Unseen poem and prose.
2.Identify important marks-determining factors such as identification of figurative language,how to integrate the purpose of the poem with figurative language.
3.Take note of my weak points such as:Write only main points instead of trying to cover everything!
4.Read handouts on figurative language and take note of the uses of common literary devices such as:Metaphors,repetition,alliteration etc.
5.Read through the novel,Animal Farm.
6.Take out handouts on Animal Farm such as those on the Russian Revolution and read thorough them.
7.Read through the handouts on Animal Farm concerning a passage-based question and an essay question.
8.Identify the main points of this novel area and take note of the main points such as writing tighter.
9.Repeat the following steps one more time after the first attempt(twice in total) to have a deeper understanding.

Major Blo Assignment(Song Analysis relating to my personality)

Thats What Friends Are For:

And I never thought I'd feel this way
And as far as I'm concerned
I'm glad I got the chance to say
That I do believe I love you

And if I should ever go away
Well, then close your eyes and try to feel
The way we do today
And then if you can remember

Keep smilin', keep shinin'
Knowin' you can always count on me, for sure
That's what friends are for
For good times and bad times
I'll be on your side forever more
That's what friends are for

Well, you came and opened me
And now there's so much more I see
And so by the way I thank you

Whoa, and then for the times when we're apart
Well, then close your eyes and know
These words are comin' from my heart
And then if you can remember, oh

Keep smiling, keep shining
Knowing you can always count on me, for sure
That's what friends are for
In good times, in bad times
I'll be on your side forever more
Oh, that's what friends are for

Whoa... oh... oh... keep smilin', keep shinin'
Knowin' you can always count on me, for sure
That's what friends are for
For good times and bad times
I'll be on your side forever more
That's what friends are for

Keep smilin', keep shinin'
Knowin' you can always count on me, oh, for sure
'Cause I tell you that's what friends are for
For good times and for bad times
I'll be on your side forever more
That's what friends are for (That's what friends are for)

On me, for sure
That's what friends are for
Keep smilin', keep shinin'




This song is sang by music greats such as Elton John,Stevie wonder etc. mainly revolves around a single theme: Friendship. Friendship, in my opinion, is one of the most valued aspects of my life and it is something which cannot be obtained through money. I believe that friendship is essential in the road of life which this song relates to about. This song reflects my personality. In the first verse of the song, the 2 lines that stands out are "I'm glad I got the chance to say" and "Then I do believe I love you". This relates to me in the fact that, being able to have the golden opportunity of having a best friend is something I would treasure in my life. Thus, I more than delighted to express my feelings for my special friend. Even though the second lines of the first verse(probably to most boys)is "mucky" because of the word "love”. I think otherwise. Like me, the song emphasises on to what extent a long-lasting friendship can go to and this is expressed as "love". Long lasting friendship are friends who traverse the bumpy road with you, who is always there for you."Love" is the perfect word to express our feelings to indicate the passion raging in a friendship. That is one of the important aspects of my personality.
In the second verse of the song, the first line “And if I should ever go away" indicates that unfortunately, one day, friends will have to go on their separate paths in life. It is the fact that I know something essential that I can cope with this occurrence: Inevitable. This would always happen, no matter what it takes. A part of my personality: One day, when we pursue our everlasting dreams, we have to try to let go. This is one of the hardest moments in my life and I guessed it should be the same for you too. However in the 3 lines in the second verse "Well, then close your eyes and try to feel "The way we do today" and" And then if you can remember" indicates an important aspect. The mental power of a friendship. This captures my interest, making these line memorable. These lines show us that even though we may not be there physically for one another, the bond of our friendship will continue to remain in our hearts forever. In need of doubt, thinking of our friends might just be our golden thought. I feel this is important in cultivating my love for friendship in me. In the third verse of the song, the first two lines"Keep smilin',keep shinin'" and "Knowin'you can count on me, for sure" are exceptional and caught my attention. This portrays the essence of friendship: I will be there for you. This aspect is one of the key building block of a friendship, I feel. Without this, friendship will be nothing more than a memory. I feel this 2 lines reminds me that whatever it takes, when friends are in trouble, helping that is evidence of being a true friend. That is my personality and this 2 lines strongly relate to it.The next two lines "For good times and bad times" and "I'll be on your side forever more" is one that should not be overlooked. Like what the song means, because of me knowing the true essence and platform of strengthening friendship bonds ,going through thick and thin with a friend is absolutely critical. No matter the situations we are in, I feel that true friends should face one's greatest fear together and now run away like a coward. This truly is the determining factor of whether you are a true friend or not. This aspect is cultivated in my personality that I know that I would keep it locked up in my mind forever.
In the fourth verse, the line "Well you came opened me" causes "And now there's so much more I see”. This 2 lines is related to each other, sort of a rhythm in the song. The song indicates that the origin of a burning friendship comes from the heart. Because of my personality, I feel that somehow, the courage of a person who opens up to you, welcomes you with open arms in a new environment(Transition form Primary school to Secondary school) in life is the main thing that kicks off a friendship. This not only contains part of the essence of the poem but also highlights that without this occurence, there would be no friendship at all. These specific lines remind me that I would appreciate my future friend's courage in introducing oneself's to me: Because if this, I truly knows he cares about me. This theme is one of the reasons of my personality. In the fifth verse of the song, this entire verse is mainly like the second verse of the song:"Whoa, and then for the times we're apart "to "And if I should ever go away".Well, then close your eyes and know" to "Well, then close your eyes and try to feel". This creates sort of a circular motion in the song, indicating that friendship is all in 1 huge cycle. The huge cycle of friendship constantly removes around and I feel that this cycle has cultivate the fact that being able to experience the rare privilege of having a friend into my personality.
Last but not least, in the fifth verse, the line "These words are comin' form my heart" is ONE OF THE MOST IMPORTANT LINES OF THE SONG THAT ESSENTIALLY CARRIES THE WHOLE THEME OF LOYALTY AND FRIENDSHIP. Like this line, I feel this ultimately sums up the song, putting a perfet touch: Expressing one's feelings that are not superficial but are in fact from the bottom of my heart. My personalty reveals that I truly mean what I say.

Verse 3 is then repeated till the rest of the song. This repetition emphasises on the fact that loyalty and love are the ingredients to a fiery friendship.ONe of my main charecteristics of my personalty is intrapersonal,which means interacting and socialising with people.

All in all, my personality allows me to feel that having a friend in truly a privilege. In times of trouble, a friend's true colours would be revealed.2 aspects, loyalty and love combined form a single magical product:

Friendship.


This is the poem I had constructed on my personality:

The Journey


You know you can trust me.
Unimaginable trust.
Through the bumpy road,
you know you will not be alone.

Whatever it takes,
I would be there
in your heart
in your soul
I will ride the waves with you.
you know you will not be alone.

Through the rain of doubt,
through the mountains of sadness,
to the ends of the world,
you know you will not be alone.

Destined from the beginning,
I am really glad,
to have a friend.
No matter the jungles of horror,
or the volcanoes of terror,
you will not be alone.

I am glad that I met you,
This can
be all summed-up
in
a
single
word:
Friendship


These are my parents' responses:
1.My father:
I feel that my son has captured the main point of his personality;he could socalise well as since primary school.However,I think he should edit and write a shorter essay.

2.My mother:
I feel that my son has captured one of the main points of his personality;he treasures his friends.However,I think he should try ot write a tighter essay.


Done by:Gary Leong(16)
Class:1A1

Metamorphic poem on a household item

The Seasoned Diver


Those cold grey ends.
Plunged into the chilling water
day by day,
sending shivers down the wooden spine.
Smooth scalp colliding with the floor,
its head becoming dirt-grey ever once more
day by day.
Alas,its hair is left to dry,
the dirt clinging on the dull grey strands,
the browinish water soaked into the ends,
day by day.

Done by:Gary Leong(16)
Class:1A1

Final Assignment-First Blog Entry for term 3(My reflections on E-Learning)

Due to the current H1N1 pandemic,a Home Learning Programme was decided by the school commmitte and we as students,stayed at home for 1 week,doing assignements online.I could not complete several of the Language Arts assignments in 1 hour.Overall,I put in more hours on E-Learning than if I had attended school,including the rest of the subjects where lesson were conducted online.In the 6 Language assignments that were assigned to us for E Learning,I preferred IT Lesson 2 the most and I do not really have any other assignments which I liked the least.I feel that IT Lesson 2 is a very useful assignment to all of us students as writing about our favourite poet is a new refreshing topic and it allows us to ponder on the poet's personality, which allows us to broaden our knowledge horizon and also allow us to take a dive into the world of imagination.We would be able to picture a person's personality by analysisng previous poems and it would prove to be an extremely useful lifeskill in the future as it can be applied in University examinations and important job interviews.We would learn how to look at people from different walks of life at a bigger perspective and sets us thinking,thus,allowing us to think out of the box.In this process,we would also be able to learn important morales such as "Do not judge a book by its cover" which would prove extremal useful to us when we grow up.My suggestions to make E Learning a more condusive environment for students is to increase teacher-student interaction.This would not only allow us to understand brand new concepts but also have a main idea of what is critical,which are the main points to look out for.This would also prepare us for our return to school,thus killing two birds with one stone.Overall,I felt that the E-Learning week went on smoothly as students were able to work in condusive environment and through E learning,we acquired new skills and became more independent and of course the best advantage which probably applies to teachers too would be:Less hassle in the morning,getting more sleep.

Done by :Gary Leong(16)
Class:1A1

Lesson 6:Gambling Compulsory blog entry

Q2.The casino being built in Singapore is supposed to be a money-maker and job creator. However, many people have spoken against it. Talk to a parent or adult and get their view on the casino. Listen to the NPR and YouTube offerings and choose one that substantiates your viewpoint and include a quote from it as well. Your blog entry has to be at least 200 words and you must either support the casino or condemn its construction and ultimately the hardships it will cause in Singapore.

Casinoes,some called it a place for fame and fortune,some refer to it as the living pits of doom.Casinoes may seem attractive and glamourous but do not be deceived by its grand,stylish appearances.Yes,I have to admit,a casino is a grand place to attend in,the timber wax-polished floors,the delicious delicacies served by world reknown chefs,the mahogany tables,the articulately designed crystal fountains sprouting water along with security cameras in every nook and cranny of the casinoes add up to be a glorious place to attend to.The appearance may seem impressive but the consequences of gambling addiction may change your mind and make you think otherwise.Casinoes would be built in Singapore after the Sentosa IR and the Marina Bay IR have been completed.Several Singaporeans feel that having casinoes built in Singapore is an entirely creative,refreshing concept.It not only creates jobs but is also a boost for Singapore's economy which may prove extremely effective in this current economic recession.However,if there are advantages,there would be disadvantages and unfortunately,the disadvantages exceed the advantages to a great extent.Casinoes would be a favourite haunt for the best targets:The gambling addicts.Even the patrons of the casinoes who came here to soak into the atmosphere,to get a taste of the steady whirring of jackpot machines,the rapid rolling of a roulette wheel,the constant flipping of cards and shrills of happiness and agony,would be caught under the gambling addicts''wave of influence which may cause them to be "infected".Gambling addicts only have their mind set to revolve around money,money and more money.Greed,a poison,a virus, would be fortunate to reside in this hosts as their abilities could be maximised to its full potential.Greed can only be resisted by the strong.Gambling addicts,sadly are not.Because of their narrow perspective of winning profits,gamblers may be so addicted and immersed in the game that they may resort to any means to achieve their goals,which threatens the social security of the Integrated Resorts.This in turn would cause an unsteady uproar in the society and because of the increasing thrill seekers whom,are similair to a hungry pack of wolves,flock to the casino without fail for the utter thrill and excitement would ultimatelywalk down the wrong path.Gambling not only ruins a person's life,it would be completely consumed by it,there is no turning back.For instance,Greg,a past American who was a gambling addict,quit his job in order to fufill his desires and became a dealer to be "closer to the action".Greg was overwhelmed by the temptations,unable to withdraw his steps towards the beckoning casinoes and ultimately,broke precious family ties and bonds between friends.According to the NPR news,“the withdrawal symptoms were psychologically intolerable.” and this prompted Greg to be addicted to gambling.Gambling addicts have their future ruined by gambling,precious family ties and bonds between friends are gone,something which money cannot purchase.Gambling would cause many social problems to arise and this not only ruins the image of Singapore,the gambling addicts,like fish to a bait,would be caught and become the victims of gambling.Gambling is a poison,a virus waiting patiently to jump on a person,maliciously,bit by bit taking away the person's assets.That is why,I firmly believe that for the country's sake and the citizens'sakes that we should not build casinoes in Singapore.It will cause more problems to surface in Singapore.
I am sure of it.

Citation of quotes:http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=5182193

Done by :GaryLeong(16)
Class:1A1