happy face

Disappointed but still glad nonetheless.....

Officially, SA1 has began. The written expression and listening comprehension components were done yesterday and today respectively. But the bulk of the papers will be next week. At this crucial juncture, there are just some individuals who do not seem to be anxious or getting prepared for it. Revision papers issued out are done in a slipshod manner or some just do it halfway or do not even bother to attempt it. Those who did not even bother to do the revision paper can give excuses such as being tired or they went on frivolous outings. Although the questions are not easily tackled, at least they should give it a shot rather than simply leaving it blank. When the marked scripts are returned for thorough discussion and corrections, some of them 'can't be bothered' to listen or refuse to jot down extra notes. Failure to listen is bad enough but taking it a step further as to disturb the rest of those who wish to learn? That is irresponsibility and selfishness to the highest degree. Why can't these few people just cut down on their leisure time and defray it to their studies just for this period? Is it very difficult to devote more (read carefully, more and NOT all) time to their studies? Is it so difficult for them to grasp the simple logic: Bringing the horse to the river is one thing, getting the horse to drink the water is another. We can teach, guide and provide them with all the knowledge, help and resources but when it comes to the exam, they need to attempt the paper on their own. Nobody is going to be there to guide them along nor to nudge them to check and re-check. I hope these 'sleeping princes and beauties' can wake up from their slumber.

However, I applaud those who take the extra effort in listening and jotting down extra notes. Giving intelligent answers to questions which they are not sure is something worth commending. There are those whom english may be their second language, go to the extent of using a dictionary to translate the meanings of english words to their 'more proficient language'. That shows a very high level of commitment. Keep up the good work and enormous effort. Remember that what you sow now, you will reap later.

Spanish GP: Ferrari 1-2

Ferrari may have recorded a comfortable one-two in Barcelona on Sunday, but behind them another six teams scored points, emphasising just how competitive the 2008 Formula One season has become. McLaren returned to form, Renault were back in the mix, Honda scored their first ’08 points, and Red Bull clinched their best result of the year.

The recent intensive development work has obviously paid off for the bulk of the teams then, though not by enough to trouble Ferrari, who left Spain with a commanding constructors’ championship lead and with Kimi Raikkonen nine points clear atop the driver standings…

Adidas vs Asics

Initial results show that the difference is quite telling. I already feel that between this new Asics and my old Adidas Supernova Control, vis-a-vis the very first run on the road, the Adidas seems to perform better. I find that the heel gets more comfort and cushioning in the Adidas. Not that the Asics is bad but the "brand with 3 stripes" is more superior. So when I did the first on-road test on this new Asics versus the new Adistar Control, the difference is even greater. Perhaps the Asics needs more 'running-in' before it starts to perform? Maybe. For now, Adidas is one up.

Spanish GP Qualifying: Ferrari 1-3

It is a Ferrari 1-3 for the Spanish GP tomorrow. All eyes will be on not just the Ferraris, Mclarens & possibly BMWs, but that Spanish guy driving that French car is in P2. Perhaps the French team did not put too much fuel in his car so that he can get some 'face' in front of the home crowd? We shall see tomorrow....

Standing fan

The standing fan in Esther's room seems to be failing soon. The same problem that I encountered with the one in my room (of which I claimed warranty since it was just a month old then) appears to be showing up with this older fan. The motor looks as if it is jammed and it takes quite some time for it to work at its supposed speed. I sprayed some WD40 lubricant into the motor and it still does not seem to work. Swopped the smaller fan from the dining area into her room for the time being. Now I am hoping to see if there is any sale coming up since I might need to get two instead. One to be placed in her room while the other in the dining area. The smaller one that is now in her room which was from the dining area originally will be moved into the study. So if any of you know of any electrical fair or some special offer for standing fans, please let me know.

Answering difficult questions

What happens when you are asked a very difficult question? The trick is to learn the skill that politicians do best: Answer the question without answering it.

All 10 observations completed

Finished the last one today. Though it has been quite a tedious process especially when time is tight added to the fact that some students can be a little more than difficult to manage, my learning curve steepened by a huge magnitude. The next step is to focus on the upcoming SA1. I have quite a few revision papers to go through with both classes and I hope they will take it seriously.

bananananananana.........

After 6 mths....

6 mths ago...



6 mths later......

Latest photos

Botak Jones

Decided to try this new place located at blk 233 which is along East Ave 3. It serves American cuisine but at a much lower price compared to the many of those established joints in huge malls. We ordered the fish n chips and a chicken chop (it is not called chicken chop, cant remb the exact spelling) and for $14, it was a steal. The portion was HUGE. Now, if I were to say the portion is huge and it fills my tummy, trust me, it IS huge. Additionally, they also sell draft imported beer like Stellar Atois, Hoegarrden (I don't know the spelling). So instead of having to go to places like Fish & Co or some lavish western restaurant, this place is perfect. Be prepared to wait though.

Facebook virus alert

There is a virus within Facebook. It's been causing havoc by using certain account holder's names to send out messages. If any of you have had messages written on your walls and if the source was from my account, I apologise as I have not logged onto Facebook for sometime. Realised it last night so I went to delete some of those messages. Please delete if you see messages that are fictitious. Apologies once again.

Enrichment questions

Had a great lesson with 2S today. I gave them a copy of enrichment questions on the various topics they did and paired them up to try tackle them. Initially, some of them were quite stumped by the level of difficulty but once they got the hang of it, I could see their confidence boosted when they managed to solve the problems. Though some did not attain the correct answer, I could see them working on the process towards solving any problem questions. Let's hope they will likewise do the same in their upcoming SA1. Keep it up 2S!

SA1 fast approaching

The SA1 oral examinations begin this week. I am not that worried for my P4 class as I think by and large they should be able to handle. Except for a couple of people who really need help, I think what these minorities are lacking is just one thing: Diligence. It appears to me that these few are simply taking things so easily and not the least concerned that this is their crucial year. I really hope that they will pull up their socks and focus on the upcoming examinatons. Just another 5 weeks to the mid year school holidays. Put in your best and score as high as possible in as many sections as possible. We teachers can help and guide you along but when it comes to facing the examination questions, you are on your own.

Running shoes

After speaking to my cousin who is also an avid runner, I took her recommendation to have 2 pairs of shoes so that I can rotate. Since I was purchasing an Adidas, I decided to try Asics as well. Though the latter costs more, I hope that it can live up to the expectations of the former. Adidas shoes have really impressed me and this latest addition should bring it to an even higher level. Just by looking at the sole, you can already tell that Adidas appears more superior in terms of design and how it caters to the runner's feet. However, the real test is when I take it to the road. Let the battle of both the 'A' brands of running shoes begin....

Monday blues: No excuses!

A very common excuse for being lethargic or not being focused on a Monday would be that of Monday blues. I got quite irritated with some of my students this morning as they were just not focused and their minds seemed to be on auto roaming mode. I gave them a dressing down. Just before the lesson ended, they knew what they did wrong and promised not to repeat it again.

My 8th observation went well though I would have preferred it to be slightly better. As usual, there are some disruptive elements and those day dreamers. Why can't they understand that the SA1 is fast approaching and they just have that 'bo chap' attitude. Many of my colleagues share the same views. We the teachers are even more anxious than them.

It has been cleaned...finally....

For a couple of weeks since its 40,000 km servicing, the blackaltis has not been washed. Basically, it can only be attributed to the owner being lazy, tied up with work and also the elements of the weather. Whenever, the owner wanted to clean it, somehow or rather the skies will open up so he can just give the excuse of not having to wash it. In fact, he loves those heavy downpours as it really gives the car a good washing down but the side fenders will get dirty.

But the owner decided enough was enough. After coming back from church today, he went to have it washed. Not only that, he used those disposable hand towels which restaurants usually provide to give the interior a good wipe down. At least the blackaltis now looks nice and clean. However, the owner is still not very satisfied. Having gotten a complementary car spa voucher, he intends to use it before it expires on 30th Apr which is about a fortnight from now. Hopefully he can squeeze out the time to drive all the way to Ubi to redeem the voucher.

Discovery Ctr shots

Sg Discovery Ctr

Brought 4 Amethyst to SDC this afternoon as part of their International Friendship Day programme. They had a whale of a time and at post time, I am still sorting out the photos so please bear with me for the time being. Will post some photos over the next couple of days.

It really happened....potential for a #3...stress...

During assembly this morning, Dhanya & I stood near the bus bay and I kept looking towards the front gate for any taxis that might pull up outside the main gate. Except for a few of them who dropped off some passengers, there was no sign of our VIP. Dhanya's lesson began at 0800 hrs while mine started half an hour later. Just to be sure, I went up a little earlier to boot up the computer. The intercom phone rang just before 2S came back and I thought it might be the general office calling to inform me about THAT. Turned out to be a false alarm. My CT too was surprised that it was quiet but she still did the observation after all. It went well. The class enjoyed themselves but at the same time, they had a chance to revise a few topics.

When my lesson was over, I met up with Dhanya and we reckoned boss might come next week instead but there was still my english lesson with 4A at 1100hrs. Since Peter had a 2nd observation with the same class, we decided to just wait and see. Anyway, I prepared something. I then decided to ask the security uncle to tip me off if boss comes but he had no intercom at the guard post. Just then, I saw it. A ComfortDelgro taxi stopped at the zebra crossing. I went back into the staff room and from the window, I saw boss entering the school. Told Dhanya about it and sent out a message to Peter and Marilyn. Met up with boss and we went up to 4A classroom.

It went better than I had expected. Despite being quite a teacher-centred lesson, boss was very pleased. He then mentioned to me about a possible 3rd visit. Peter was told the same thing as well. But what was very unexpected was that he also went to observe Dhanya's single maths lesson at 1300hrs but she managed to pull something out of the bag too. So now come crunch time if and when the 3rd visit were to take place. If it does.

Waiting......

Peter messaged Dhanya and myself shortly after the 2nd recess that boss sprung a surprise visit. Marilyn also sent us a message but boss only observed Peter's lesson. So after boss left, Peter called us and we sounded him out on how it went. Seems that Peter might be in a very good chance for a distinction. Since this friday is International Friendship Day and both Dhanya's and my lesson will be affected, it is quite unlikely that boss will show up. As the final submission is next wed, that leaves only tomorrow, monday and tuesday. Marilyn also messaged that she too speculates boss will drop by to visit her probably next week. However, it is still quite open though there is a higher probability that he might do some last minute changes. Let's wait and see....

Healthzone

Brought some of my students from 4A to the Healthzone earlier in the afternoon. I must say that they enjoyed themselves and the most important part is that they went away from the outing with additional knowledge on how to keep fit, stay healthy and in particular, the ill-effects of smoking. Hearing the staff sharing on the ill-effects of smoking was a huge sense of deja vu for me. Not that I smoked but I really wish that my ex-colleagues will hear this and think about if they wish to still stay in that company. Those of you who know which company I am referring to will understand what I mean.

Bahrian GP

Bahrain had one colour on Sunday afternoon, and that was red. BMW Sauber were strong enough to keep the pressure on and to take the lead in the world championship for constructors, thanks to Robert Kubica and Nick Heidfeld finishing third and fourth, but the one-two result for Felipe Massa and Kimi Raikkonen confirmed the form the world champions had shown in Malaysia. As for McLaren, and in particular Lewis Hamilton, this was a race best forgotten.

Ferrari

Felipe Massa, p1/1m 33.600s

Kimi Raikkonen, P2/1m 33.709s

Massa really needed this victory, and he barely put a wheel wrong in achieving it. His Ferrari had all the pace it needed, and he could control the race. His only problem was ensuring that there was no repeat of Malaysia. Raikkonen was quick, but not quick enough to challenge his team mate. Taking the lead in the world championship for drivers’ points table was adequate compensation as Ferrari dominated, however.

BMW Sauber

Robert Kubica, P3/1m 33.775s

Nick Heidfeld, P4/1m 33.565s

Kubica lost the start due to excessive wheelspin, and then thought he had a puncture in the early stages. It transpired that it was oil in Turns Four through 11, without which he felt he might have been able to keep Raikkonen at bay. He was quick throughout, but though the fastest laps suggest otherwise he did not quite have enough speed to challenge the Ferraris. Heidfeld was also quick, pushing his team mate all the way on his longer-runs strategy. Their points haul put BMW Sauber at the top of the world championship for constructors for the first time, by a point from Ferrari and two from McLaren.

McLaren

Heikki Kovalainen, P5/1m 33.193s

Lewis Hamilton, P13/1m 35.520s

McLaren had to put a brave face on a race that saw them lose the lead in both championships. Hamilton’s start problem came when he selected the wrong procedure and activated the anti-stall mechanism at the wrong moment. Then he compounded that by hitting Alonso on the second lap. Thereafter he was condemned to run in traffic with a heavy fuel load, and his problems were further compounded by deflector damage at the front of the MP4-23 which induced understeer. Kovalainen ran strongly on the prime tyres in the closing stages, when he set fastest lap, but otherwise lacked the pace of Ferrari or BMW Sauber.

Toyota

Jarno Trulli, P6/1m 34.204s

Timo Glock, P9/1m 34.807s

Once again Trulli brought Toyota points with a smooth and trouble-free run in a car that he said handled really well, while Glock made it to the finish in ninth after fending off an aggressive Alonso. He loved his TF108 in the opening stages, but was less enamoured of its behaviour in the second stint.

'Spring cleaning' my drawers

I decided to do some housekeeping for my drawers yesterday. After I came back from running, I opened up some of my drawers where my bills were kept. Household bills like the telephone, utilities, credit cards plus some other miscellaneous things. I only kept those from 6 mths ago till the latest ones while I threw out the rest. I was telling Angela that if I had just summed up the total amount incurred for 12 months, how much would the total amount add up to. Anyway, I looked through them before tearing them up into pieces and putting them into a plastic bag before disposal. Initially, I thought of bringing them to school and putting them through the shredding machine but I reckon that might be too time consuming considering the fact that I had kept some invoices that dates back to the year 2005! Now that tells you when was the last time I did 'spring cleaning' as far as my drawers are concerned.

Popular Book Fair

It's back again. We went to Expo to check out if they are any good deals and it seems that there are a lot more items for those in the pre-school level. Angela bought some more materials while I purchased some english resources for grammar, vocabulary, comprehension and creative writing. The usual price for each book was about $5+ but they are being sold at a mere $1 or $2! Imagine the savings. And just consider how much does it cost them if they can sell it at such a price.

MSN virus alert

I suspect there is a virus in the MSN server because I keep receiving a URL being sent from a friend and it in turns sends it out to some of those in my contact list. If any or you received the message, please delete it without opening the URL link just to be sure. Any convenience caused is regretted.

Midway

I have just passed the midway point of my practicum and also done half the total of observations required. All's well so far and I aim to maintain it for the rest to come and that includes an imminent surprise visit by boss anytime soon. There is just another 4 weeks or so to the written examinations for all levels. I am about to complete the syllabus for my P2 maths and just the last unit to go for my P4 english. Beginning to like both my classes more and more as the days go by. Some of them do get fidgety or a little mischievous but by and large they are a nice lot.

Gp pic

Lastest family pic