English Vocabulary Words!

Ceremonious - carefully observant of ceremony; formally or elaborately polite
Assertive - confidently aggressive or self-assured; positive
Stow - to put in a place or receptacle, as for storage or reserve; pack
Recede - to go or move away; retreat
Mausoleum - a burial place for the bodies or remains of many individuals
Musty - having an odor or flavor suggestive of mold
Dingy - shabby
Cloister - any quiet, secluded place (monastery)
Leaky - allowing liquid, gas, etc., to enter or escape
Decrepit - weakened by old age; feeble
Exacerbate - to increase the severity, bitterness; to embitter the feelings of (a person); irritate; exasperate
Surreptitiously - acting in a stealthy way; obtained
Revered - to regard with respect tinged with awe; venerate
Quid - a portion of something
Theatrically - of or pertaining to the theater or dramatic presentations;
Vault - a burial chamber
Flamboyant - strikingly bold ; dashing and colorful
Sedate - calm, quiet
Antiquated - no longer used; old, aged
Reckon - I think

- Deep voice bellowed full power through the closed bedroom door
- With a heavy sigh
- Smiling wryly
- Heard the familiar heavy sighs that always accompanied his receding footsteps
- Poorly maintained mausoleum
- Receive failing
- Chilly kitchen
- Ear to ear great big gnasher flashing at you
- Revered customers
- Vaulted up
- Enliven and modernised

HAPPY MOTHERS' DAY!

TO YOU!!!

M-O-T-H-E-R

"M" is for the million things she gave me,

"O" means only that she's growing old,

"T" is for the tears she shed to save me,

"H" is for her heart of purest gold;

"E" is for her eyes, with love-light shining,

"R" means right, and right she'll always be,

Put them all together, they spell "MOTHER,"

A word that means the world to me.

- Howard Johnson

Yay! It's mothers' day again!
Mummy, you must grow taller okay! (but not taller than me [: )
This is my 16 time celebrating with you even though when i was only a young kid i didn't know what's going on.
This year, I've decided to make something special for you so you'll remember 2009's mothers' day!

Here's a song for you!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=taZzqFznpGw

Lots of life has gone by
Since we'd sit around and play...
Under water colored skies
Time and I, both flew away

Of all the precious gifts you gave me
Number one is that you made me
I will always be your baby
Happy Mothers' Day

We'd gather 'round the table
Gather 'round the Christmas tree
We still do when we're able
But it's not enough for me

Lots of life has gone by
Since we'd sit around and play...
I will always be your baby
Some things never change
I'm so happy that you made me
Happy Mothers' Day.

Mothers hold their children's hands for a short while, but their hearts forever.

- Anonymous

A HAPPY FAMILY (:

THANK YOU MUMMY!
WE LOVE YOU!

English Vocabulary Words! (Part 2)

Prenicious - deadly; hurtful
Reverently - deeply respectful
Repose - at rest; calm
Deceit - trick
Remonstrated - to say or plead in protest or disapproval
Triumphantly - having victory or success

- Looked at her sympathetically
- Deep-rimmed brown
- A cluster of lavender velvet roses
- Steep, sloping roof
- Clopped and clanged
- Relief and comfort flooded me and I took the last tired steps in a bound
- A deep dramatic intake us all look up
- A tumbler of thick brown liquid
- Each word bristling with suspicion
- Glared into it with righteous zeal (passion, desire)
- Rimless spectacles
- Wondered idly (not working, active)

To be continued...

English Vocabulary Words!

Vocabulary Individual Words

Regurgitate - swallowed food (bring up)
Calamity - disaster
Anguish - suffering
Prudent - acting with, showing care of
Avail - an opportunity; available resource
Contention - heated disagreement
Miniature - small
Rudimentary - involving; limited to basic principles
Jeopardized - risk
Meager - inadequate
Vacillating - indecisive; swaying
Shorn - cut; remove
Wizen - dry up; wither
Itinerant - traveling place to place (wandering)
Resplendent - gleaming; splendid
Gaily - merrily, cheerfully; showiness
Ponderous - great weight; awkward
Bawl - cry, wail
Reprove - criticize; correct (disapprove strongly)
Deluged - anything that overwhelms like flood

Vocabulary Phrases

- Neck craned to see
- Square of pale pearl sky
- Tipsy old wardrobe
- Plunged down the steep twisting stairway
- Enormously wealthy customer
- Lingered in the streets
- Elaborate set piece
- Sour faced, scowling (gloomy) individual
- Blue eyes behind the thick round spectacles were as mild and merry as ever
- Gazed from one of us to the other with frank delight
- Notable (praiseworthy) quality
- Steady stream of guest
- Dutiful mother
- Glanced out of one wide-set eye
- Throngs of strollers (crowd)
- Wearing the nearest thing to a smile that her perpetually down drawn lips would permit
- A chill of silence fell over the table and spread swiftly around the room
- Typical broad brimmed black hat
- Raw and gaping wound
- Sat down stiffly on the edge of a chair

English Speech Writing

Dear fellow classmates,

Regarding the one week's course in the December vacation for our level, I prefer the Personal Finance Management Course to Personal Fitness Training and First Aid Course. It will provide us with innumerable useful instructions on what to do and how to manage our money sensibly.

First of all, the reason that I chose this course is due to the fact that we still have about four months of leisure time before the release of the O' Level results. I believe that the majority of the cohort will find a part-time job to occupy their time and earn extra allowance for them. Some parents might stop giving their child allowance as they think that they will have their meals at home. When we start earning money, we may splurge on branded goods to satisfy our cravings and boast about it; hence we need to have some lessons to learn to deal with our personal finances. If we do not now how to manage our finances, we will not kick the habit of spending money extravagantly.

Secondly, money is essential to our future, and if we do not have proper financial management, we will have difficulty in our future. Money is needed to further one's education and eventually to start and and sustain a family. In other words, money is relevant to whatever we will be doing down the road of our life. Consequently, we have to learn skills to manage our money consciously.

I do not agree with the First Aid and Personal Fitness Training Course. Even though first-aid skills are useful to save a life, it is rare that an emergency will happen around us frequently. About the Personal fitness Training Course, it is not necessary for us as it is of no use even if we know the exercises and techniques, but do not put it into action. It requires self-discipline and resistance to keep up with the fitness training, and these qualities cannot be learnt from the training course. Besides, teenagers nowadays are more concerned over money matters; hence I believe that the course is more applicable to us.

I hope that all of you agree to this discussion to have a course in financial management as it is very substantial to all of us.

Thank you.

VOCABULARY TIME!

POWER English Vocabulary Words (1-20)

1. Felicitous - of only ordinary or moderate quality; neither good nor bad
- He led a felicitous life.

2. Doleful - sad
- He led a doleful life.

3. Fluster - embarrassed
- They flustered me by telling everyone my secret.

4. Preclude – make impossible
- The insufficiency of the evidence precludes a conviction.

5. Dither – procrastinate
- Stop Dithering and do something!

6. Poverish – poor
- Poverish people cannot afford luxuries.

7. Chivalrous – polite
- Mary is very chivalrous.

8. Endorse – permit
- We do not endorse smoking in the house.

9. Pallid – pale
- Tom has a pallid face.

10. Condone – overlook
- We condoned his wrongdoing.

11. Conspicuous – outstanding (easily seen)
- He is a conspicuous dancer.

12. Amiable – nice/ kind
- You are an amiable person.

13. Clamorous – noisy
- This is a clamorous class of children!

14. Reticent – modest
- Ernest is reticent about his success.

15. Phenomenal – marvelous
- I made a phenomenal discovery.

16. Agile – lively
- This is definitely an agile party.

17. Insolent – insulting
- Do you know that what you had just said was insolent?

18. Impotent – useless
- Jack felt impotent to help.

19. Hospitable – sociable
- Jon is a hospitable guy.

20. Concede – agree
- I concede to pay my share.

English Discursive Writing

Dreams

Everyone has wishful dreams, some even have highly ornamental dreams. Some examples of dreams like being a multi-millionaire before their mid-twenties, dreams of striking lottery and dreams of out-doing the greatest inventor of light, Albert Einstein. These are common but desirable dreams that most people wish they could come true, but do they really come true? Without the willingness to achieve it and work towards it, it is impossible. I feel that dreams should be kept simple and achievable, something that is attainable but not something impossible.

Currently, I have three dreams. The first and most important dream is to send more time with my family and develop deeper feelings for them to improve our relationships. I have yet to achieve this as my parents are often busy with their work, while my sister and I are preoccupied with our studies. In order to achieve this, I think that we should take at least a day off our work and studies to spend quality time with one another. As a family, we can make use of the time together to get to know more about each other, and to pour all our troubles and secrets that had been kept in our hearts for a period of time. I have often recalled with fondness the times I had with my beloved family at a family day outing. We went to Sungei Buloh Nature Reserve to watch a diversity of migratory birds breeding, feeding as well as flying high in the sky. We spotted a group of four birds, two big and two small. I assume that they are one family. Looking at them is just like my family which consists of my parents and my sister. We bonded positively and found out our common interest - enjoying the pleasant scenery.

My second dream is to score a single digit for my O' Level Examination at the end of this year. This requires a lot of hard work and good time management, but with self-discipline and perseverance, I am sure I can achieve this dream. I remember the times when my graduated seniors collected their O' Level result slips. Those who scored and aggregate of ten and below got the opportunity to stand up proudly, to let the school recognize the effort that they had put in. That was my motivation and source of this dream.

My last dream is to be a successful Geography researcher and teacher. I want to be a researcher to gain more knowledge on Geography, then become a teacher to be of service to contribute to the society as well as to inspire and nurture students. If they do well, I will feel a sense of satisfaction. I can benefit a lot of teaching as it will stimulate my brain, allow me to continue learning, brainstorming and increase my knowledge. I am also able to learn patience from handling noisy and mischievous students.

Once a person has a dream, he should strive for his best to reach for it. Although dreams are chiefly hopes and desires that the brain experiences, I have reports that explain that dreams are interlinked to what we believe in. Dreams such as getting good grades are something between the two areas which the human brain would long for. Therefore, with sheer grit and determination, achieving dreams are definitely possible.

English Narrative Essay

A Strange Coincidence

"Come on Julia, it's your birthday party. Why aren't you in a joyous mood? Don't be so busy, we'll pack up for you later on! You've invited us to your house, so come on and have some fun!" my childhood friend, Shanice persuaded. I have an uncomfortable feeling. My eyes had been twitching since I woke up. I do not know if it is a pleasant, or an unpleasant thing that is going to happen.

Today is my twenty-first birthday celebration. I had invited all my University friends as well as my best friends to enjoy this special day of mine.

It is five-thirty. I asked my sister to help me purchase some packet drinks for the party an hour ago, but she was not back yet. Out of the blue, I heard the blaring door bell. My heart was relieved from all the worries I had. I flung the door open, anxious to see my sister coming home safely. A familiar fat figure stood in front of me, looking doubtful.

"May I see Chai Lim?" She asked.

"I'm sorry, I think you've got the wrong door." I replied. Then, I shut the door, with mixed feelings. "Who is she?" I thought, "she looks rather familiar." I did not really care as I was busy attending to my guests and laying out the table for my birthday dinner.

Within minutes, my sister holding onto plastic bags of sugared drinks came home. She was panting heavily when she reached home. She handed over the bulky bags and headed straight to the room to finish up her online project so that she can join us for the party. She was browsing through the internet server and she came across a picture of my primary school class photo. She was starring at the picture for quite awhile and tried to spot me.

All of a sudden, she yelled, "Jie! Jie! Is she your form teacher in primary three?"

I walked into the room and saw the picture and replied, "Yes! She's the teacher I have always admired and I'd always take her as my role model." I gaped at the picture for awhile and thoughts flashed through my mind, "Isn't she..." I murmured. I dashed out of the house immediately and everyone was appalled. They did not know what I was doing. I was frantically searching for the person who knocked on the door previously.

Finally, I spotted her at the void deck. I saw her back view and at second thoughts, I thought it was not the person in the picture. She turned around and I hit like ton of bricks. "It's her! Why has she become so thin! She was a plump as a hippotamus fifteen years ago!" I thought. I ran towards her and told her everything. She explained to me that she wanted to find her long lost sister, and it was such a strange coincidence that we would get to see each other after a long time.

We reminisced our past and chatted for awhile. I invited her to my birthday party and she was as happy as a lark. This is definitely the best and astounding gift I have received on my birthday.

English Report Writing

Mr. Ang Chee Siong
Principal
Queenstown Secondary School

21 February 2009

Choe Tze Yi Charlene
Chairperson
Committee of Students

Report on Choice of Ideas for Primary School Students to Settle Down Quickly (underline)

I am writing this report on behalf of the committee of students. We have chosen the best idea to help the primary school students who will soon be joining our secondary school to settle down quickly and happily. I have chosen Lily’s idea of holding an Open House in out school. The prefects could show the primary school students and their parents around the school and explain to them what our school culture is like. This enables both students and parents to have a better understanding of the facilities provided and environment of the school. Staffs and students will be ready to respond to the questions raised by the pupils and the parents.

I did not choose Chee Keong, Ahmad and Sushila's idea as they are inferior compared to Lily’s idea. Chee Keong's idea of designing posters and producing booklets of information and pictures in several languages is not really efficient as students will get to know only what is printed on them. They will not have a clearer picture of the school’s environment which is an important factor to help them settle down quickly. Ahmad's idea of producing a short video will be very costly. We might not have the resources to produce the video, thus it is not suitable. Sushila's idea of holding a talk in various primary schools would cause all of us, as well as the primary school students to miss lessons.

We can further improve on Lily’s idea of holding an Open House. We can hold it on Saturday morning from 9am to 4pm as many parents do not work during weekends, hence are able to visit the school with their children. Prefects will be assigned for duty on that day. Some of them will introduce the various booths and the others will escort the family around. Light refreshments and small goodies bags will be given to them as welcome gift to enable them to feel welcomed.

I hope you will accept our suggestions.

Thank you.

English Discursive Writing

Career Choice

Choosing a career is one of the most important decisions to be made in life. I fully agree with this factor as once one chooses a career, it will affect his future. If one picks a career that does not suit his character, he will not only dread it, but it will also cause him to lost interest in life. On the contrary, it could be a mental torture to face something he detests daily! If one selects a job he likes, he will progress more swiftly. Therefore, there are several points that must be taken into consideration before determining which career to take up.

The first factor should be the demands of the job. As the world's economy is constantly evolving, and job scopes are always changing, hence it is very important to choose our career wisely. Currently, tourism is the main focus of Singapore to compete with its neighboring countries to improve on its economy. By 2012, Integrated Resorts will be built; therefore Singapore requires a large number of workers to ensure the smooth running of the resorts. With the high demand of this kind of jobs, it is easier to secure a job in this area.

The second factor is my interest and what I am capable of doing. If I choose something that I like to do, I will always look forward to go to work daily, excited at whatever tasks I am assigned to, but if I have a job that I do not have interest in, I may dread going to work. Unless I pick a job that I am capable of doing, I will have a hard time finishing and completing the work I am supposed to do.

The last factor to consider is the job is long term or short term. An example is teaching. As many societies constantly require teachers to educate the younger generation, teaching is the most important and most stable job now. Unlike performers at bars like magicians, whose job is always short term as entertainment is not a necessity.

In conclusion, we should always consider these points before selecting which job we would like to take up No matter what career we choose, as long as we have a passion for it, money should not be a hindrance to the success of our lives. We should enjoy what we are doing, instead of caring about money even though it is the essence of life.

English Narrative Essay

Write about someone who failed to live up to his or her reputation.

My Model Father

My name is Danny. I have a father who is well-respected by many people, whether young or old. He is a model father whom everyone looks up to, and whenever anyone has a problem, he would be the first to lend a helping hand. Although my mother has passed away about four years ago, my father remains strong.

He is the sole-bread winner in the family. He feeds my two younger sisters and me, as well as my grandparents. However, he is a technician, and he does not earn a lot of money to provide for us. Despite the fact that we face financial problems occasionally, he has always faced them courageously and tried his best to settle all the bills. Therefore, everyone called him a model father, who lived up to his reputation.

However, something unexpected occurred. As my father is an experienced technician, he is the least like to be retrenched by the company even though the economy was suffering from recession. One day, his boss broke the tragic news to the entire company - the company went bankrupt. Everyone dropped their jaws, dumbfounded. This would mean that all of them who are working for the company would be jobless.

In order not to cause any undue worries, my father kept the news to himself, not letting the cat out of the bag. He remained imperturbable, not expressing the slightest expression of being down and under. He faced many predictable problems like cash flow problems as well as how to spill the beans to us. He had to be pretentious every morning, acting as if he was going to work.

As times passed quickly, he still could not find a suitable job. He had spent all his savings and borrowed much from his fiends. At last, he was desperate. In his mind, there was only one word spinning around his head, which is "gamble". He felt very reluctant to do so, but the thought of "investing" his money and gaining more income through it tempted him to do so.

"Hey David! Michael here. Remember the gambling den I told you about? I heard that there are many winnings this week in there. Interested to pop by within these few days?" asked Michael on the phone.

"Oh... Okay... Make it tomorrow morning? My kids will be in school and no one will find out about me being jobless." My father answered discreetly, grinning from ear to ear.

I happened to walk pass the room and overheard the conversation between Michael and him. I stood rooted to the ground, but stayed silent. I did not tattle the secret.

As weeks passed like a flash of lightning, I realized that my father visited the gambling den numerous times. "He seemed addicted to it", I muttered. I wanted to stop him from choosing the wrong path in his desperation to try to sustain the family, but was clueless on what to do to solve the problem. Whenever he went to gamble, he always lost, henceforth creating a heavier debt for himself and the family. He would try to gamble more through borrowing from loan sharks to try to recoup his losses, but to no avail. Sometimes, loan sharks would come knocking on the door to claim for the money my father borrowed.

Out of the blue, I discovered that a lot of people found out that he had been visiting Gamden Road, which is a street known for illegal gambling dens. Many of his friends started to avoid him whenever they saw him lest he borrowed from them. They started gossiping about this matter.

I have really no idea why my father behaves like this ever since he lost his job. Even if he wants to continue to support the family, he could have strived harder to find another occupation. If he failed to do, he could have taken up a part-time job and discuss this problem with us so that we can help him. I am really very disappointed with him. He did not live up to his reputation as a model father he used to be.

English Argumentative Essay

"The best things in life are free." How far do you agree with this statement?

To a great extent, most things in the modern world today require money, but there are some things in life that do not need cash. I believe that most of the best things in life cannot be bought; it requires perseverance to get them. Different people have different cravings in life, for example, some yearn to have bountiful number of branded accessories and some wish to have an experience that they will never ever get in their lives. Most people take things for granted as they are wealthy, but there are some things these people would not be able to have, just like how values and happiness cannot be bought with money.

Firstly, experiences are one of the most valuable lessons in life, and they cannot be bought. Some of these experiences are a chance to perform during the National Day Parade, Friendship, Relationship as well as the joy of nature. Nature mesmerizes human beings, especially the beauty of a rainbow, sunset and sun rise. The cool breeze of the night caressing one’s face, having a leisurely stroll along the meadows or rivers and the spiritual aspects in one’s life, are all exposures that money cannot be purchased. I had a personal once-in-a life time encounter in Germany, the Eagle’s Nest. When I was up on the mountain of snow, I was able to see the ranges of the Alps Mountain. It was a panoramic and breath-taking sight. I had never seen such beautiful scenery before, and I think that this is something that my money cannot bring.

Secondly, the best thing in life also depends on the partiality of an individual. Different individual have contradictory perceptions. A night out at a club might be some people’s interest, whereas doing voluntary work in third world countries might be another’s happiness. To the volunteer worker, to see the smile on an orphans or a sickly patient’s face is the satisfaction money cannot buy. Even though doing voluntary work requires cash, the contentment is beyond monetary means. During my Vietnam National Education trip, the children at the orphanage definitely taught us priceless lessons in life. Through them, we learnt that money is not everything, and we must treasure the love from everyone. They certainly uplifted our spirits.

Last but not least, values learnt cannot be achieved by means of money. Dedication, integrity, self-discipline and cooperation can only be gained through life involvement. In the recent Singapore Youth Festival Competition for choir, although we got a bronze for our participation, all of us grasped the meaning of mutual effort, companionship and a better appreciation of choral singing. The joy and energy exhibited on each of our faces as we perform is invaluable.

However, many things in life requires money. Medical treatment, education abroad, bringing up a family, having food on the table, all are not free. Some might argue that money is a necessity in order to attain the best things in life. Money can buy material wealth, and the tangibles, branded goods, holidays and big houses. Although this material wealth can bring a certain amount of happiness, it is transient. Wealth can be wiped out during an economic crisis.

In my opinion, the things that are preeminent need no money. The intangibles in life such as love, friends, faith, trust and pleasures of nature are gifts. To be surrounded by loved ones and having a hearty laugh is a blessing. Henceforth, the best things in life are free.

Expository Essay

Transportation is an important factor in our daily lives, but the rise in transport vehicles leads to the increase in transport problems, especially in densely populated countries like Singapore. There, an efficient transport system will cause lesser transport problems. Problems of transport system are like traffic congestions, air pollution, increase in transportation cost and over-crowdedness, and these scenes are commonly seen during the rush hour. Hence, all of us should do our part to solve transport system.

Whenever any of the traffic lights turn faulty, transportation will be a problem. The government should ensure constant maintenance of the traffic light, if not consequences like confusion between drivers and pedestrians, accidents and delay in delivery goods will occur. With regular maintenance of the traffic lights, hit-and-run accidents and disruption of goods will decrease, thus making sure of smooth traffic flow, solving a transport problem.

Problems like over-crowding in public transport like Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) and bus occur during peak hours, but there are solutions to solve this problem. The MRT management could increase the frequency of the train arrivals, for example, from five minutes to three minutes during peak hours. This can decrease congestions in the cabin as well as provide a more comfortable ride for restless and weary commuters.

Some Singaporeans think that cost of transport is escalating for the past two years, especially taxi fares. After the increase of taxi fares, many of them avoided having taxi rides because of the huge hike; as a result, taxi drivers had a great loss in income. Practically they are driving empty taxis most of the time, and many of them had given up taxi licenses. This problem can be settled if they find an optimum and reasonable taxi fare that will benefit both taxi drivers and passengers. This would not only allow taxi drivers to earn enough remuneration to support their family, and allow passengers to enjoy the ride instead of worrying about the taxi fares.

Different variations of transport system like cars and trucks often emit harmful and toxic gases, for example carbon monoxide and oxides of nitrogen. These exhausts are bad for the human body, and also cause air pollution to the Earth that result in global warming. Instead of using diesel or petrol, they can use palm oil as an alternative. Research has shown that palm oil can replace petrol for vehicles, and it gives out less noxious gasses, therefore causing minimal effects to the environment and living things. Even though it is proven that efficiency of palm oil is less than that of petrol, research and development can be done to improve the efficiency of it.

To conclude, transport system can reduce stress and make life easier for everyone. Improving transport system should be an ongoing process as an efficient transport system will cause lesser transport problems. In Singapore, the Land Transport Authority is always implementing solutions to for a more competent transport system.

VOCABULARY TIME!

Detrimental

- Damaging
- Disadvantageous

Woebegone

- Depressed
- Troubled

Torment

- to worry or annoy excessively

Greed For Fame.

“MUAHAHAHAHA! Finally, another newspaper article front cover about me. “Benevolent Billy Gives Quarter Fortune to Pooly Children Orphanage”. I’m famous for being generous; people know and recognise me now!” Billy announced.

“He and his nonsense again, always trying to gain fame by doing generous works.” Benny, Billy’s brother, murmured.

Many people do not like Billy as he is conceited and narcissistic about his wealth and generosity all the time. This is how Billy overcome his greed and became a better person…

Ever since Billy was desirous over his brother for being renowned in the entertainment circle, he tried to overthrow his brother so that people would like him more than his brother.

“So what if Benny is famous, I can be like him too, not that he’s so capable and he’s the only one!” Billy said vigilantly. Jealousy filled Billy, and winning him is the only thing in his head.
When Billy was a small boy, he was often ignored by his parents because he never listens to them. He also argues with them if things did not go his way. On the other hand, Benny received better treatment from them as he showed exemplary behaviour. They also bought whatever he wanted, and does everything in his favour. He felt unfair. He decided to study very hard and score good grades. Now, he burns midnight oil, just to ensure that he can outdo Billy.

One day, Billy finally succeeded. He became the manager of Company Rich, and started to earn lots of money. As he did not have talents unlike Benny, he thought of many ways to outshine his brother. He started working on projects after projects, and thus many people know him. Billy felt satisfied of his numerous achievements, appearing on newspapers and magazines umpteen times. He also donated to various charity centre and orphanage, out of fame, not generosity.

His attitude went from bad to worse. Greed went over his head. His friends started to ignore him and some even disregarded him as their friend. Although newspapers described him as a respectable and admirable, people around him know that he has a motive in his heart by doing these acts.

Years passed, and Billy felt lonesome and forlorn. No one bothered and cared about him. His friends did not even glance at the newspaper when he was on it. “What happened?” Billy thought, “ Why did everyone leave me? What have I done?”

Weeks after weeks, Billy reflected upon whatever he had done. Finally, one month later, he realise that he had neglected his friends, and in his mind was to defeat his brother. He did not cherish his relationship with his friends and families, causing him to lose everything he had once before. He failed to treasure them.

Greed over fame had almost cost Billy to lose everything he had. From then on, he learnt how to be mindful of what he is doing, and forget about outdoing Benny because as brothers, they should be thinking of how they can help each other instead of competing with each other.

Frustration.

Frustration, is a feeling of dissatisfaction. Frustration occurs in various different ways; when people irritates you, when you cannot solve a problem and even for the smallest things, for example, unable to find something. To me, frustration is like a test to us, a test which all of us have to take, to get to know our tolerance level towards people.

For me, i do not have a high tranquil and have a bad temper, thus i often throw my temper to certain people. Frustration in me caused my relationship with certain friends to get from bad to worse. Once we do not see eye to eye to some matters, an arguement will start.

I think that all of us should learn how to control our emotions, lest we let go of it, and matters become severe.

Broken Dreams, Fulfilled Promises

Imagine you are the writer of the book – Plan a sequel (Part 2)
“Broken Dreams, Fulfilled Promises” [Carolyn Ros]

As Johan slowly regained his memory, Carolyn felt blithe. She continuously prayed and thanks God for the healing of Johan after such a long and difficult period.
A few years passed, and their four children grew up healthily. Jozua, who was affected by a sickness when he was young, was the most filial. He took care of Johan, his father, ever since he was hospitalised. Although his father had brain tumour and lost his memory years ago, he is fine now, because of the constant care by his family.
One Saturday afternoon, Jozua had a relapse. His sickness reacted again.
“How could his sickness react again? The doctors said he had fully recovered, but… WHY?” Carolyn said frantically. Immediately, they sent him to the nearest hospital.
As Carolyn is a Christian, she prayed non-stop,” Dear Lord, I pray for my son’s safety. He is a very wonderful son, please don’t take him away from us. Please don’t make all of us worry again.”
The next morning, the family found Jozua lifeless in his bed. They were shocked and aggrieved. Carolyn especially was heartbroken. Jozua’s siblings were moaning the lost of their beloved brother. Johan was filled with grief as Jozua was the most filial son who took care of him.
The whole neighbourhood attended the funeral. Everybody had only good things to say about the boy. Life continued for them. Carolyn slowly was settling back to her normal self.
One night, Johan was thinking about his son. Tears flowed down his cheeks. His heart was heavy with sorrow. Out of a sudden, he heard a faint voice. It became louder to his ears. It was Jozua’s voice. “Don’t grieve, daddy. I’m at a wonderful place. There are beautiful flowers and greenery around me. I’m with loving people who are taking good care of me, just like you. I’m here coaching little children who are here before their time. They adore me like a big brother. I enjoy their company and always try to make them happy. This is my mission. Please do not feel sorry for me. I am at peace with myself. One day, we will meet again. Rest assured that I am always keeping all of you in my heart and mind. Good bye daddy.”

Burned Alive

Imagine you’re one of the characters – Write an alternative ending to the story.
“Burned Alive” [Souad]

… Although Souad was married in Europe after her countless treatment for her burnt body, things did not go on smoothly for her.
“SOUAD! COME HERE QUICKLY BEFORE I SMACK YOUR HIDEOUS FACE!” hollered her husband. Souad dashed towards her husband hastily.
“Yes?” questioned Souad. Her husband pushed her onto the hard and cold floor.
“Look at what you’ve done? Look at this! Why is there a stain on my sofa? Why are you so careless to spill your drink? WHY ARE YOU SO CARELESS! What if bugs crawl onto the sofa? HOW HOW HOW?” screamed her husband, infuriately.
“I’m so sorry; I promise I won’t do it again. I promise.”
“Always say, but never do.” He shook his head and walked away.
Souad walked towards the bathroom, close the door, and wept pitifully. Tears rolled continuously down her scalded cheeks. She was never allowed to cry in front of her husband, if not her husband will reprimand her. She looked into the mirror, and saw her awful and burnt face and thought, “Is this my fate? To live in a world controlled by men? Even my husband controls me, where’s my freedom?”
The next day, she woke up and realise her son was right beside her. He flew from West Bank all the way to Europe. Since her son was living alone in his foster family’s house in West Bank, he said,” Mummy, I have never gotten a chance to live with you since I was a baby. But it’s okay; I know why you sold me to another family. It is because you love me so much that you didn’t want me to suffer with you and my irresponsible father in West Bank. You’ve suffered too much, mummy. Let’s go live somewhere else, so that you won’t be controlled by stepfather anymore.”
“I’m afraid I can’t. If your stepfather finds out, I’ll be in hot soup!” Souad said sadly.
“Don’t be afraid mummy, I’m here, and you won’t be in trouble.” Souad’s son calmed her down. She reunited with her son and regained her freedom. From then on, Souad began a new lease of life.

Vietnam War Life Story

Describe your favorite setting from the story and comment why you like or dislike.
“First They Killed My Father” [Loung Ung]

The setting I like the most in this book is when Loung was walking to the infirmary to recover to become strong so that she will not be kicked out from the refugee camp and the scene when she found her mother and baby sister. She was walking along a dusty and muddy lane, with many land mimes along the side of the road. She struggled as she walk, because she was famished. It took her the entire day to reach the infirmary.
Loung mustered up courage and asked for permission from the person in charge of the refugee camp, Met Bong, to allow her to have the permission slip to go to the infirmary. This displayed her endurance and resolution to stay alive even though she was all alone stranded in the camp, during the war.
Along the way, she found a small cotton field. As she was hungry, she recalled that the black round seed in the cotton can be eaten, thus tried and it appeased her stomach. This act also refers that at such a young age, she knows many survival skills, and is very ingenious.
She saw many scenarios in the infirmary of people deadly sick, and half-alive, but she still walks across all of them. If I were her, I would definitely be panic stricken, even at the age of fifteen. All these incidents proved, that even a young girl like her is able to go through all the sufferings and pain, what more a teenager or a parent?
The author has definitely given her a wondrous role to inspire many people to be undauntable and fearless at all circumstances. All of us should learn from her that no matter what happens, if there is a will, there will always be a way to carry on.

Ugly?

Pick controversial issues and give opinions.
“UGLY” [Constance Briscoe]

“The black woman beautiful is as far away from white woman beautiful as the beauty of night is from the beauty of day. Beauty in this essence comes in differing forms but it still seems as if we have one ideal.”
Is being ugly, a sin? Why do people despise people who are ugly? Why do people not look at the inner beauty, but the outer beauty? Uncivilized people tend to keep away from “ugly” people as they think that it is a shame to be with them. People always say “Having inner beauty is the real beauty”, but do they really mean it?
In my opinion, inner beauty is more important than outer beauty. I do not dare deny that majority of the people prefer people with a greater appearance, and attractive people get a job easily. For example, we know good-looking guys usually get higher scores on job interviews, but this does not mean that they can neglect and abhor others.
Outer beauty is not so important to make a person good. We should not judge a book by its cover, to see if the person is courteous and well-mannered. In our society, beauty also gives us many advantages such as having a good social life, making friends, getting a job, and getting a promotion. Whenever, we look at good-looking guys and girls, we usually form stereotypes. We think he or she is a good and kind person. This is why cosmetic surgery is so popular in our society.
So, what is real beauty? I want to say that inner beauty is the real one because if someone has beauty in his soul, he looks like a really beautiful person. The beauty looked at with eyes doesn't last forever. Instead of concentrating on outer beauty, we should concentrate on inner beauty. The point is that inner beauty is more important than outside beauty. So, if we make the effort to make our minds beautiful, we'll be happier.

Shotgun Marriage

Pick controversial issues and argue why you agree or disagree.
“Shotgun Marriage” [Day Leclaire]

Since olden days, the institution of marriage is sacred. It is a norm in society that people have to be married having children. But nowadays, the trend has changed. Teenagers are pregnant even before they are married, and thus have to get married before the appropriate age. There are many advantages and disadvantages on this matter.
Shotgun marriage keeps relationship going. When the child is born, both parents will nurture and provide love and comfort for the child. Shotgun marriage also lessens the financial burden of the female party as she does not need to worry on how to raise the child all by herself. The male is able to go out and work, whereas the female is able to take care of herself and the baby, so that both will be healthy.
On the other hand, shotgun marriage can cause more trouble. Usually, it does not last long due to the fact that they are still young, not knowing what they are doing. Some people who do not accept shotgun marriage will start mocking the couples for being “lowdown”, “shameless” and so on. Comments like “the girl marries the guy because he is rich and is able to provide for her”, are unduly common. As couples are young, they will not be able find a stable job to provide for the family. If the family is not rich, for the worst case scenario, the male has to quit school to work as a full time worker in order to earn more money.
I disagree to shotgun marriage, it is unsafe. Teenagers are too young get married, and they do not know how to think properly before they make a decision. I am sure that even without marriage, both parties will still take the initiative to take care of the baby instead of aborting it.

VOCABULARY TIME!

Pandemonium

- in a chaos


Catastrophe

- natural disaster, disastrous situation


Phenomenon

- natural wonder (disaster/wonderful)


Embullience

- happy


Flummoxed

- shocked

VOCABULARY TIME!

Chariot

- a light, two-wheeled vehicle for one person, usually drawn by two horses and driven from a standing position, used in ancient Egypt, Greece, Rome, etc., in warfare, racing, hunting, etc

English Discursive Writing

Dangers which young people should be aware of when they leave school.

Teenagers leaving school at a very early age is quite common nowadays. Some started to regret, while some still thinks that they have made the right decision. I think that teenagers should not quit school at such an early age as there are many consequences to face after that. There are many dangers which young people should be aware of when they leave school.

Conflicts may arise with their families and friends. As they decide to leave school, friends may not be supportive over the idea, thus both parties will argue over the matter. Arguments and conflicts between friends may lead to loneliness. Parents may have problems with the idea of leaving school as they may be concerned that their child is passing up opportunities for their future. They may also be disappointed because young people are fortunate to be in school whereas they do not have, thus they do not like to see you giving up. Feeling secure about their child’s future may be very important to them.

Leaving school would mean lesser knowledge learn. Lesser knowledge learn would lead to difficulty in finding a stable job. Having a stable job when one grows up is very important as they got to support themselves and not to be dependent on their relatives or friends. They will also have lesser variety of jobs to choose from due to their lack of abilities, thus they may not like the job they are working currently. They will have a lower income to support their family.

Mixing with bad companies is what normally teenagers do after they leave school especially at a young age as people tend to find youngsters to join in their gang. This is very dangerous because once they enter a gang, it will be very difficult to quit, and they might involve them in crimes that are illegal. Their future will be affected greatly as they may be looked down by others thus leaving a bad impression to others.

Yes, there are many dangers when a teenager leaves school. Dangers like mixing with bad companies, difficulty in finding jobs and conflicts are hard to avoid. Therefore, teenagers should make the right decision, and to think of the causes and consequences.

Reflections & Processes.

HAPPY TEACHERS DAY!

HAPPY ACES DAY!

29th August 2008 is the day when i realise the importance of being united as..

ONE BODY; ONE CLASS; ONE SPIRIT!

Practicing aces dance day after day, weeks after weeks, is definitely a way that bonded our class together as one. All of us feel committed to our class, and that we've done our part as a class.
Staying back after school, struggling to catch up with the dance steps, going over to Valerie's house after seven at night for extra practices, are memorable things that should not be forgotten.
Although our class got third for aces dance, i still feel very satisfied and proud because this is what 3A is capable of, and I am sure we are also capable in many other aspects.
Screams and laughter echoed as teachers' day celebration commenced in the school hall. Streams of events were held to entertain the school, for example the teachers' baby photo, teachers' item, video dedication, aces dance finals and so on.
What caught my attention, is the video dedication. Memories from the past, words from the present, dreams of the future are included into the video that makes it very touching and sweet to the teachers.
On the whole, this is one of the most memorable teachers' day i had ever spent in my entire life. Thank you for all the teachers that taught us with patience and guidance. 3A will never forget the hard work all of you had painstakingly put in to help us achieve our aims.
THANK YOU!

VOCABULARY TIME!

Exasperate

- to excite the anger of : enrage
- cause irritation or annoyance to

Mandatory
- compulsary

Short Newspaper Article 4

Mums make best tutors - Sunday, August 31, 2008

Mother makes best tutors indeed. Without the love and care from my mother, i wouldn't be here today.

My mother is a wonderful mother, with weary eyes, who always put on a cheerful smile on her face. She is very optimistic and a great role model for many other mothers. At times of disappointment and sadness, she'll wear an angry face that and my sister and I would be scared of.

Communications between a mother and a child is very important. Although my mother doesn't speak good english, and felt funny when we go out together with my sister as she speaks chinese to my sister whereas she speaks to me in english, she still tries her best to improve in her english and speak to me using proper english. I am very greatful.

Despite her scoldings and naggings to sleep, to pack my stuffs, to do my chores properly, i am very glad that she'd done all these for me. I had learnt alot from all the scoldings she gave since i was small. For example, to off all switches when not in use.

Having such a wonderful mother is my greatest happiness of all. What about yours?

VOCABULARY TIME!

Restraint

the act of restraining, holding back, controlling, or checking
________________________________________________
Respite

a delay or postponement
________________________________________________
Obscure

not clear to the understanding; hard to perceive
________________________________________________
Delirious

wild with excitement, enthusiasm
e.g. She was delirious with joy at the news.

VOCABULARY TIME!

Apathy

- absence or suppression of passion, emotion, or excitement
- lack of interest in or concern for things that others find moving or exciting

Newspaper Article 3

The Beijing Olympic Games - Saturday, August 23, 2008

Li Jiawei is one of Singapore's best table tennis player and was selected to represent Singapore for the Olympic game 2008 in Beijing. It's a very rare chance to be able to participate in the Olympic game as its only held every four years at different parts of the world.

Singapore should be proud of her, as she achieved Silver for the team game, and forth in the individual game. Although she lost in the semi-finals against Guo, we all know that she'd done her best.

Being able to play so well, it all requires effort, perseverance, as well as time. Jiawei spends majority of her time playing table tennis, competing with others to improve her stamina, endurance, strategy as well as skills. It is tiring, she even lost in the Athens Olympic four years ago for a close game to get third, but she still didn't give up.

Although Jiawei lost to Guo in that game, what matters is the experience, and understanding the different techniques they use so that she will be able to improve in future trainings and competitions.

If you fail, it doesn't mean you'll fail forever. Strive on, and keep on trying. In every difficulty lies an opportunity. Perserverance is the key to success.

VOCABULARY TIME!

Intrepid

Fearless; bold; brave; undaunted; courageous

Newspaper Article 2

Clean an estate? It's no mean feat. (Page B4) - Monday, August 18, 2008

Keeping the estate clean, disposing rubbish bags into litter bins are what we as citizens should do in order to maintain a clean and green city. But have we ever wondered who are the ones who clear the rubbish bins as well as sweep the roads?

Singaporeans should learn from Kimberly Spykerman as she cleans up Bishan estate with Mr Muhamad Talib, an estate worker. Experiencing jobs that Singaporeans are unwilling to do is a daunting and boring thing to do. We tend to take things for granted, even for the minor things that happen in our daily lives. Cleaning up an estate manually, heavy lifting of rubbish bags and sending them to the garbage disposal are jobs of cleaners that help Singapore to be so clean, but majority doesn't appreciate it.

I think that Singaporeans should take the initiative to clear up their own estate, and not to contribute to the litter. This can greatly help reduce cleaner's jobs as they go around every corner to pick up rubbish.

In my opinion, schools should organise CIP activities, whereby students can get to experience such jobs under the hot sun, and to understand and go through the hardships of the cleaners as they put themselves into their shoes, so that they will learn from their past mistakes and not to litter again.

Presenting cash awards for Housing Development Board (HDB) cleaners is also a good way to attract jobless Singaporeans to take up cleaning as their job as nowadays people are not keen on cleaning jobs. Hardworking and diligent cleaners will be able to receive cash rewards for their great service towards the nation in keeping the city clean.

Nowadays Singaporeans are contributing more litter on grounds and we should strongly encourage them not to look down on cleaners as cleaners have done their best to clean and they deserve the most. They are the ones that made foreigners have a good impression of Singapore. So let's keep the country clean and green!

VOCABULARY TIME!

Water off a duck's back

Mainly disapproving criticisms of or warnings to a particular person that have no effect on that person (stubborn) :

I've told him that he's heading for trouble, but he doesn't listen - it's just water off a duck's back.

Newspaper Article 1

Their lives are an open (Face)book (Page B7) - Wednesday, August 13, 2008

The number of teenagers hanging out on social networking sites, such as Friendster and Facebook, are increasing enormously.

Ever wonder why teenagers create accounts in such websites?

I have many friends who have such accounts, and i know of some who make use of these social networking sites to socialise around with people whom they do not know.
Teenagers tend to spill their problems and troubles to their "new" friends as even if the other party let the cat out of the bag to their friends, no one knows who they are talking about.

Normally, teenagers will upload pictures, write up on themselves, add friends, and many more. Creating accounts in such websites can also eradicate boredom of the teenager, thus it is so popular among teens.

There are pros and cons of creating accounts in social networking sites.

As they socialise, they will be able to build up on their confidence level as they meet the outside world. Socialising through the net is also one of the ways to curb loneliness of the user as they find someone they can pour out their troubles to.

Although creating accounts in social networking sites have their advantages, they also have their disadvantages.

Making friends in these sites and thus hanging out with them is not appropriate. The other party might not be what as described as they are in their site at all. As teenagers get addicted to such sites, they might spend the entire day sitting in front of the computer and thus neglecting their parents, having little communication among one another. This widens the generation gap and the teens will start to grumble about their parents not trying to understand what they are doing.

Teens often create thoughtfully designed profiles that prominently display "friends" who number in the hundreds or even thousands.

Parents should supervise their children closely, and check for any sensitive information on their profiles. Abuses on such sites can come from exposing too much of one personal information online, such as phone numbers, address and photos.

I find this situation very common among teenagers nowadays, and it's very important to find out more about such cases, and thus helping both the young and the old in their relationships, as well as teaching the youth to be careful of what they are doing.

PRESENTING TO YOU...

My first post in this book review blog!

I'm so excited to get started on it!
Bet it's going to be fun! HAHA!

Get ready to see the change in my english post by post, and by O' levels, it'll be GREAT! HAHA.