ENGLISH HUB - IPSI86UM96

Continuous Writing – Past Years

noreply@blogger.com (Toraipsi86um96) — Wed, 14 Aug 2013 13:06:00 +0000

FORMAT	QUESTION	YEAR
ARGUMENTATIVE	How can we help promote tourism in Malaysia?	2004
	How to keep oneself healthy?	2005
	How can television help students in their studies?	2006
	“Teenagers today are only interested in entertainment“ Do you agree?	2007
	Examinations – good or bad?	2008
	School children should not have long holidays. Do you agree?	2009
	‘The internet is mostly a good thing. “ Do you agree?	2010
	Should school students have part-time job? Discuss	2011
	Should parents give children more freedom? Discuss	2012
DESCRPTIVE	Describe a festival celebrated in your area.	2004
	Describe the biggest challenge in your life.	2005
	Describe an enjoyable weekend you have experienced.	2006
	Describe an embarrassing experience in your life.	2007
	Write about a person who has worked hard to succeed in life.	2008
	Describe an unforgettable incident that you saw on your way home from school.	2009
	Describe the most popular student in your school.	2010
	A famous person you admire.	2011
	Describe an outing with your friends	2012
NARRATIVE	Story completion: ..... “ We had never laughed so much in our lives”	2004
	An unexpected visitor.	2005
	Story completion: ..... “If only i had been more careful, that wouldn’t have happened.”	2006
	Story completion: ..... “Kim was nervous when the door opened .......”	2007
	Story completion: ..... “Now i realize the value of true friend.”	2008
	Story completion: ..... “We said our goodbyes and went our separate ways.”	2009
	Story completion: ..... “It had been raining all day........”	2010
	Story completion: ..... “They looked at each other and smiled meaningfully.”	2011
	Story completion: .....”The teacher walked into the classroom. It was the first period..........”	2012
FACTUAL / EXPOSITORY	Clothes	2004
	Music	2005
	Food	2006
	Tomorrow	2007
	Stars	2008
	Beauty	2009
	Home	2010
	Peace	2011
	Cleanliness	2012
IMAGINATIVE	My ideal school	2004
	If you given a chance to be anybody who would you want to be and why?	2005
	What changes would you like to see in your life in the next ten years?	2006
	My early years.	2007
	My perfect future husband or wife.	2008
	My favourite day of the week.	2009
	What can we do to save the environment?	2010
	The best things in life are free.	2011
	Saving money for the future.	2012

ANALYSIS OF PAST YEAR EXAM PAPERS - DIRECTED WRITING

noreply@blogger.com (Toraipsi86um96) — Wed, 14 Aug 2013 13:04:00 +0000

2003	Formal Letter	Write a letter informing the teacher on choice of class trip
2004	Report	Write a report about school cleanliness
2005	Informal letter	Write a letter to a friend about your experience at an outdoor activity camp
2006	Informal letter	Write a letter to your friend giving reasons why he/she would make a good Head Prefect
2007	Speech	You have been asked by your teacher to give a talk on a science book that is useful for secondary students
2008	Article	At the camp, one of your friends was chosen as the best group leader under a leadership camp. Write an article about your friends for your magazine
2009	Report	Write a report to the principal regarding students ‘lack of interest’ in sports and provide suggestions to overcome the problem
2010	Informal Letter	Write a letter to your cousin encouraging her/him to take part in the National Service Programme
2011	Talk	Give a talk to the Red Crescent Society members in your school to upgrade their skills in giving first-aid treatment
2012	Informal Letter	Write a letter to your younger sister who is studying overseas to advise her on how to spend her money wisely

How about 2013??? An article or a report

Writing a Narrative Essay

noreply@blogger.com (Toraipsi86um96) — Wed, 14 Aug 2013 13:00:00 +0000

There's nothing like reading a great narrative. Whether in novel or essay form, a narrative piece of writing transports readers into the time and space of the world portrayed by the writing.

There's also nothing like writing a great narrative. Through reflecting upon an event, and through recreating the experience for other readers, writing a narrative essay can enable you to develop new, subtle, and rewarding perspectives.

Basic qualities of a narrative essay:

A narrative essay is a piece of writing that recreates an experience through time.
A narrative essay can be based on one of your own experiences, either past or present, or it can be based on the experiences of someone else.
In addition to telling a story, a narrative essay also communicates a main idea or a lesson learned.

First steps for writing a narrative essay:

Identify the experience that you want to write about.
Think about why the experience is significant.
Spend a good deal of time drafting your recollections about the details of the experience.
Create an outline of the basic parts of your narrative.

Writing about the experience:

Using your outline, describe each part of your narrative.
Rather than telling your readers what happened, use vivid details and descriptions to actually recreate the experience for your readers.
Think like your readers. Try to remember that the information you present is the only information your readers have about the experiences.
Always keep in mind that all of the small and seemingly unimportant details known to you are not necessarily known to your readers.

Communicating the significance of the experience:

It's often effective to begin your narrative with a paragraph that introduces the experience and communicates the significance. This technique guarantees that your readers will understand the significance of the experience as they progess through the narrative.
Another effective technique is to begin the essay by jumping directly into the narrative and then ending the essay with a paragraph communicating the significance of the experience. This approach allows your readers to develop their own understanding of the experience through the body of the essay and then more deeply connect to your expression of the significance at the end.
You might also consider introducing the experience in the first paragraph but delaying your expression of the significance of the experience until the end of the essay. This approach heightens your readers' sensitivity to the significance of the narrative.

Revising your narrative essay:

After spending time away from the draft of your narrative essay, read through the essay and think about whether the writing effectively recreates the experience for your readers.
Ask other people to read through the essay and offer their impressions.
Identify where more details and descriptions are needed.
Identify and consider removing any information that seems to distract from the focus and main narrative of the essay.
Think about whether you've presented information in the most effective order.

Potential prompts for your narrative essay:

If you're having trouble choosing an experience to write about, take a quick glance through these prompts. They might help you remember or identify a particularly interesting or significant experience to focus on.

A childhood event. Think of an experience when you learned something for the first time, or when you realized how important someone was for you.
Achieving a goal. Think about a particularly meaningful achievement in your life. This could be something as seemingly minor as achieving a good grade on a difficult assignment, or this could be something with more long-lasting effects, like getting the job you desired or getting into the best school to which you applied.
A failure. Think about a time when you did not perform as well as you had wanted. Focusing on an experience like this can result in rewarding reflections about the positive emerging from the negative.
A good or bad deed. Think about a time when you did or did not stand up for yourself or someone else in the face of adversity or challenge.
A change in your life. Think about a time when something significant changed in your life. This could be anything from a move across town to a major change in a relationship to the birth or death of a loved one.
A realization. Think about a time when you experienced a realization. This could be anything from understanding a complicated math equation to gaining a deeper understanding of a philosophical issue or life situation.

Directed Writing: Report - Test Yourself

noreply@blogger.com (Toraipsi86um96) — Tue, 21 Aug 2012 04:38:00 +0000

Question 10

The Nature Club of your school is in charge of the 'School In A Garden' project. As the secretary, write a report to the principal on the activities carried out by your club throughout the year.

Include the following points :
Activities
- tree planting campaign
- trimming and shaping trees
- planting grass
- rock garden and waterfalls
- education trip
- herb garden
- painting murals
- labelling plants and trees
- hydroponic garden
- flower beds
- cleanliness campaign
- maintaning fish ponds
- talk
- 'Donate A Plant' campaign
You should use all the points given above. When writing the report, remember :
- To address it to the principal
- that this is a formal report and should be written as such
- to give it a suitable heading or title
- to include all the points given

Question 11

You are the President of the Environment Club for your school. Recently, your club had organized a programme called “Lets Recycle”. Write a report to your teacher advisor regarding the programme.

Include the following points:

· Time and date of the programme

· Purpose of the programme

· Location of the programme

· Number of students and teachers involved

· Two preparations done by the committee members

· Three types of activities

· Three benefits of the programme

When writing your report, you should remember to:

· use the correct format

· include all the points given and elaborate on them

· add elaborations and details of your own

Directed Writing: Test Yourself - Article

noreply@blogger.com (Toraipsi86um96) — Tue, 21 Aug 2012 04:36:00 +0000

Question 8

Nowadays, parents do not spend enough time with their children. You want to make suggestions on how parents can spend quality time with their children. Write an article for a local newsletter and give your suggestions.

Include the following points:

Problems:

• Parents are too busy working or making money

• No time for children

• Work long hours

• Not enough communication

• Too tired to interact with children

• Children feel neglected

• Lead to many social problems or delinquency

• Children mix with bad company

Suggestions:

• Parents should spend quality time with children

• Show love, care and concern

• Plan meaningful activities to do together

• Give guidance, advice and religious teaching

• Need to play, have fun, be happy travel and have meals together

Hope for:

• Happier or more loving families

• Better family relationships

• Less social problems among children

• More love and respect between parents and children

• Advantages for everyone and country

You should use all the points given above.

When writing the article, you should remember to:

§ write a suitable title

§ include all the points given

§ write in the format of an article

§ write your name

Question 9

Many students feel that they have too many things to do in one day. Many of them really do not manage their time wisely and end up not completing their homework or school projects on time. You want to make a few suggestions on how they can manage their time in a better and more effective way.

Write an article for your school magazine and give your suggestions. Include the following points:

Problems:

• Students too busy — school work, homework, projects, assignments and tuition classes

• Not enough time to complete work on time

• Too tired

• Feel stressed, otten lead to frustration

• Too much time playing computer games or loafing

• Lag behind in their studies

Suggestions:

• Pay attention in class

• Try to complete as much homework as possible during school hours

• Make a ‘To do’ list

• Need to plan time or prepare a timetable for after-school activities such as completing homework, tuition classes, revising lessons, extra-curricular activities or spending time with friends

• Make time for rest and relaxation

• Join study groups

• Seek help from parents, teachers or peers

• Speak to a school counsellor or peer counsellor if necessary

Possible results:

• Get work completed on time

• Reduce stress and frustration

• Promote positive attitude towards school life and social life

• Time spent wisely

• Feel happier and healthier — physically and mentally

You should use all the points given above.

When writing the article, you should remember to:

§ include the title

§ include all the points given

§ write in the format of an article

§ write your name

Directed Writing: Test Yourself - Speech/Talk

noreply@blogger.com (Toraipsi86um96) — Tue, 21 Aug 2012 04:34:00 +0000

Question 4

You are taking part in a public speaking contest. The topic of your speech is “Keeping the Environment Clean’. Write out your speech based on the notes below.

Include the following points:

· do not litter

· use rubbish bins that are provided

· no open burning

· use public transport

· walk or cycle

· reuse paper and plastic

· keep rivers clean – no dumping

· plant more trees

· organize campaigns to raise awareness

· be a good friend to the Earth

You should use all the points given above. When writing out the speech, you should remember to:

· address your audience

· include an appropriate introduction and conclusion

· use an appropriate tone

· thank the audience

Question 5

You are the President of the Counselling Club in your school. You attended a seminar on how to prepare for examinations. Your advisor has asked you to share the information. You have to give a talk during the next club meeting

Include the following points in your talk:

· Do not play truant

· Attend class regularly

· Pay attention in class

· Make your own notes

· Prepare a study time-table

· Group study is a good option

· Have enough sleep before the examination

You should remember to:

· give your talk a title

· use all the points

· write in paragraphs

Question 7

You are the President of the Nature Club in your school. Your club has organized several activities in conjunction with World Environment Day. As the Club’s President, you have been asked to give a speech about air pollution and what students can do to help lower levels of pollution. You can use the tips given below to help you.

Cause of air pollution	Measures to reduce pollution
· smog · exhaust fumes from vehicles · open burning · fossil fumes	· car pooling · using public transportation · do not do open burning · recycle · do not use aerosol sprays

You should use all the points given above. When writing out the speech, you should remember to:

· address your audience

· include an appropriate introduction and conclusion

· use an appropriate tone
thank the audience

Question 12

You are the head prefect of your school. Your school principal is going to retire. Write a farewell speech for your beloved school principal.

Include the following points:

· the purpose of the speech

· the principal’s number of years of service

· school taught

· principal’s biodata

· contributions by the principal

· the principal’s popularity

· how everyone will miss the principal

When writing the speech, you should remember to:

· use the correct format

· include all the points given and elaborate on them

· add elaborations or details of your own

Directed Writing: Test yourself - Letter

noreply@blogger.com (Toraipsi86um96) — Tue, 21 Aug 2012 04:33:00 +0000

Question 1

You are the Secretary of the Cleanliness Club in your school. The Club had a meeting and members have decided to write a report for the principal regarding the cleanliness of the school canteen. As the Secretary to the club, you have been asked to write the report.

Include the following points in your report:

· Dirty plates and plastic glasses used

· In sufficient number of rubbish bins around the canteen area

· Not enough benches and chairs for the students to sit on

· Not enough food to cater for the students during recess

· Dirty kitchen area

· Clogged drains surrounding the canteen

Remember to:

· Give your report a title

· Use all the points given

· Write in paragraphs

Question 2

You are the President of the Taman Megah Residents Associaton. Your current concern is the increase in dengue cases among the residents in your area. Write a letter of complaint to the President of the Town Council

Include the following points in your letter:

· Clogged drains surrounding your area

· Irregular rubbish collection-empty cans scattered or exposed, collect water-breeding ground for Aedes

· No house visits by Health Enforcement Officers to check residents’ homes

· No fogging activity conducted by health inspectors

· Grass uncut in the field

· Vacant land next to the area has become dumping ground filled with old tyres

Remember to:

· Use the correct format to write the letter

· Use all the points given

Question 3

You read a letter to the editor in a local newspaper where the writer is against studying for STPM and finds it a waste of time. You disagree with the writer. Write a letter to the editor to state your views.

Include the following notes:

· opportunity to apply to local public universities

· local private colleges and universities

· degree programmes

· professional courses

· study abroad

· an academic qualification that prepares one to pursue tertiary education

· do not have to take foundation courses

You should use all the points given below. When writing a letter you should remember:

· to give a suitable title

· that your reader are mainly students

· to include all the points given

· to write in paragraphs

Question 6

You are concerned about the increasing rate of accidents in Malaysia. Write a letter to the editor of a newspaper to suggest ways to reduce the number of accidents.

In your letter, include the following:

· motorcyclists must wear helmets

· the strap of the helmets must be fastened properly

· check if all lights are functioning

· motorists must service their vehicles

· make sure vehicle tyres are road worthy

· do not speed

· use the pedestrian crossing

· use the overhead bridge

You should remember to:

· write in the correct format

· write in paragraphs

· add your own details to make your letter interesting

Directed Writing: Report

noreply@blogger.com (Toraipsi86um96) — Fri, 17 Aug 2012 08:01:00 +0000

Your school library is in a bad state and many of the students have been complaining about it. As the Secretary of your school’s Reading Club, you have been asked to write a report to the Principal to inform him about the problem and to suggest solutions.

Include the following points in your report:

· old books books in poor conditions

· insufficient chairs and tables

· media equipment is not functioning

· inefficient and lazy librarian

You should elaborate on the points given and add any further points of your own. When writing your report you should remember:

· that you are writing to your Principal.

· to address him properly

· to sign off correctly

Comment:

You have to write a report, addressed to the Principal. Make sure you include all the points provided, elaborating on them through details, examples, explanations or related points. You can touch briefly on the improvements that you would like to see, but as it was not specified in the question, you should not stress on them. Note that the word limit was not mentioned so you are free to add in more material so as to gain the maximum marks that have been allocated for your points. The language used must be formal. Be sure not to use slang, contractions or conversational forms.

Sample Answer:

To: The Principal, SMK Panglima Bukit Gantang, Kerian, Perak

Poor Conditions and Services of the School Library

I am writing this report to draw your attention to the poor conditions and services of our school library.

Firstly, the collection of library books needs to be expanded and improved upon. Many of the books are so old that they are out of-date and in poor condition, with torn or missing pages.

Secondly, the seating arrangements are inadequate. Only 12 chairs have been provided in our library for a school of more than 200 students. Furthermore, many of the chairs and tables are rickety and the tabletops are all so deeply scratched that it is difficult to write on them. It would also be much more conducive to readers if some easy chairs were provided, so pupils will able to relax while reading.

Thirdly, the media equipment in the library is not functioning. As far as I know, it has been out-of-order since January last year and has not been repaired since then.

Finally the school librarians arc rude and unhelpful. To quote just one example, when asked for help in finding a book, one librarian responded, “Find it yourself. Do you think I am your mother?” Surely, librarians should be more willing to assist the students.

One of the objectives of our club is to encourage reading among the students of the school. As we realise that many of the students will have little access to good reading material apart from the school library we hope that the conditions in our library can be improved.

…………………..

(Noor Aishah bt Mohamad Rasol)

Secretary

School Reading Club

Directed Writing: Report - Account

noreply@blogger.com (Toraipsi86um96) — Fri, 17 Aug 2012 08:00:00 +0000

SMK Kayu Jati’s Fund-Raising Carnival

The 30^th June, which happened to be warm and sunny Sunday morning, saw the field of SMK Kayu Jati as a hive of activities. On a day when everyone else was resting at home, glued to their television sets, the students of this school and their parents had sacrificed their beauty sleep to be in school by six-thirty. Reason? They were there to help out with the one-day carnival jointly organized by the school authorities and the Parent-Teacher Association.

The idea for the carnival was mooted by our beloved Principal, Puan Hajah Sri Asmida Saadon , to raise funds for several projects. The school hopes to use the money collected to help needy students pay their tuition fees. The money will also be used to help sponsor twenty students who come from single parent homes. Other than that, the money will also be used to buy new books for the school library as the existing books are torn and tattered. Some reference books are outdated while the fiction books are from our parents’ era.

The parents and teachers had set up stalls offering a variety of mouth-watering dishes. Pn. Ruzi Liyana, the senior assistant, could be seeing slaving over a barbeque pit, fanning sticks of chicken satay and frankfurters. Not to be outdone was the chairman of the PTA, Tuan Haji Nasoha. Together with a few teachers and parents, he could be seen serving his endless streams of customers a variety of ice-blended drinks. Other popular stalls included Pn. Hidayah’s ‘Nyonya Fare’ and Mr. Wee’s ‘Bollywood Cuisine’. I found out that the teachers and parents had slaved hard from three a.m. to prepare the food at home. Judging from the crowd, I can safely say that many of our teachers are good cooks. Moreover, all the food was sold out by 1 p.m. Many visitors who came later were disgruntled but Puan Hajah Sri Asmida saved the day. She had earlier made arrangements with the restaurants nearby to supply food to the school should such situation occur.

The games’ stall were handled by the students themselves. The Ghost House was all-time favourite, with tickets for the day sold out by 12 noon. Many children could be seen trying their hand on mini golf, ‘ride a pony’ and the numerous dart games which offered attractive prizes to winners.

The prefectorial Board members had turned music deejays for the event. For a mere 50 sen, they spun popular English, Malay, Chinese and Hindi songs. Requests for dedications k\ept them busy the whole day.

The carnival was over by 4 p.m. More than three thousand people had turned up to support our carnival. A whooping RM 50 000 was raised. Some parents have suggested that the carnival be made an annual fare as it not only helps the school raise funds for useful projects but also encourages co-operation among all parties involved. Let’s hope that next year’s carnival is even more successful and we can have a much-needed school hall.

Reported by,

Thalathiyah Nawawi

Directed Writing: Article

noreply@blogger.com (Toraipsi86um96) — Fri, 17 Aug 2012 07:59:00 +0000

Some Tips on Weight Loss and Weight Management

These days, many teenagers are very concerned about their weight. Many go on crash diets hoping to be transformed into models with svelte figures. Some, who are already slim, embark on such diets to become as skinny as Victoria Beckham. The seriousness with which teens tackle weight issues is worrying as the methods they use, such as going on crash diets and consuming slimming pills, are harmful. This article is therefore written with the aim of giving sensible solutions to weight loss and weight management.

First, one should always eat sensibly. One way to do this is to cut down on foods that are high in sugar and fats such as cakes, biscuits and fast food. You should consume more fibre-rich foods as they keep you feeling full for a longer period of time. Instead of eating white bread, go for whole meal bread. Also, you should consume more vegetables and fruits, especially green leafy vegetables. Be selective of the fruits you eat and avoid those with a high sugar content. One important tip to help in weight management is to chew your food slowly. This way you will eat less. When you eat in a rush, you tend to eat more and the results will show on the scale.

You should never go on crash diets as they are unhealthy. One major reason for this is that you will gain back the weight that you had lost. At the end of it, you might even be heavier than when you first started dieting. Crash diets take a toll on your body. This is detrimental especially to students. When you deprive your body of food, you will feel physically tired and mentally sluggish an this will affect your daily activities and disrupt your studies. Remember, your body needs nutrients in the right amounts to function efficiently.

Another useful tip to reduce your weight is to learn t recognize hunger pangs. Whenever you feel hungry, ask yourself whether you are really hungry. In fact, you might only be thirsty. This way you can cut down on unnecessary calories by drinking plain water instead of reaching for food.

Lastly exercise regularly. No weight loss programme is effective without some form of exercise. Exercise helps to burn calories and you continue burning calories for some time after finishing your exercise routine. Experts recommend that you exercise at least three times a week for a minimum of thirty minutes. There are many forms of exercise you can take up, the easiest of which is walking.

Remember, your goal should be life-long weight management, not just short term weight loss at the expense of your health. Maintaning a healthy lifestyle takes effort especially in a country which is a culinary delight where people eat all the time. You have to be disciplined if you want to achieve and maintain your ideal body weight.

Written by,

Nurul Haziqah Norjahan

Directed Writing: Speech/Talk

noreply@blogger.com (Toraipsi86um96) — Fri, 17 Aug 2012 07:58:00 +0000

It is Road Safety Week in your school and you have been asked to give a speech. Write out the speech that you will give.

Include the following points:

· reckless drivers and motorists

· speeding

· tired drivers, especially drivers of lorries

· poor road conditions

· poorly maintained vehicles

· everyone is responsible for road safety

You should use all the points given above. When writing the speech, you should remember:

· to use the proper address and closing remarks

· that your listeners are students and teachers

· to write in paragraphs

Comment:

The instructions indicate that this talk would be given in your school, perhaps at assembly, so you would address the principal, teachers and other pupils. You are instructed to mention the topic of your talk. You can also mention your purpose for giving the talk, which is part of the programme for Road Safety Week. Make sure you include all the points given. You can arrange the points in any logical sequence, expanding on them with examples or explanations of your own. For your ending, you should tell your listeners how you would like them to respond, adding a suitable saying if you know one. And thank them for listening to you.

Sample Answer:

A very good morning to our Principal, teachers and my fellow students,

I am very glad indeed to be standing here in front of you this morning. You see, as I was crossing the road in front of our school, I was nearly hit by a motorcyclist, who had suddenly turned out of the school gate and was speeding in the wrong direction, straight for me! Fortunately, I was able to jump aside in time. It’s such a strange timing, since I was planning to give a talk entitled “Keeping Our Roads Safe” in conjunction with Road Safety Week.

Anyhow, this is my first point. Roads are often made dangerous by reckless motorists or motorcyclists who speed around, not looking out for other road users. Sometimes motorcyclists even conduct races on the road! Such irresponsible road hogs should be collared by the authorities. There should be stricter enforcement of the traffic rules and bigger tines should be imposed on reckless drivers. Some drivers are rather young, and perhaps too immature to realise the dangers that they are inflicting on others. I believe that the minimum age for new drivers should be increased to 20.

A common situation when dangerous driving occurs is when the drivers are too tired, for example, when a lorry driver has to drive long distances across the country. Such practices should be actively discouraged. Awareness campaigns should be carried out on the dangers of driving non-stop for long periods. Furthermore, the authorities should also suspend the licenses of dangerous drivers, especially those driving heavy vehicles.

Finally, road safety is also affected by poor road conditions and poorly maintained vehicles. The authorities should carry out regular checks on vehicles to ensure that only road-worthy vehicles are allowed on the roads. It is also the duty of the government to keep the roads in good condition.

If the government and the citizens realise the importance of road safety and take active steps to remedy the situation, there will be less road accidents. So, whether you are a motorist, a motorcyclist or a pedestrian, let’s try to do our part to make the roads safer. Remember: The life you save could be your own.

Thank you.

Directed Writing: Speech/Talk

noreply@blogger.com (Toraipsi86um96) — Fri, 17 Aug 2012 07:58:00 +0000

A very good morning to the principal, teachers and friends. I stand here today, in my capacity as the president of the Consumer Club, to give a talk on how all of you can become better consumers.

Many people, especially women, are unable to control their shopping urges. As a result, they end up overspending. To avoid this, you are encouraged to make a shopping list so that you only buy what you need.

As you know some items can be very expensive at certain times of the year. This is especially true of vegetables and seasonal or imported fruits. That is why consumer associations suggest that we only buy these items when they are in season

You should always check the price of an item by visiting several shops. This is a good habit as you can sometimes save several ringgit on an item. Avoid shopping at convenience stores as their prices are usually higher. Always look for bargains at cheaper outlets. The difference can amount to substantial savings at the end of the month.

I would also like to suggest that you avoid catalogue shopping although it is gaining popularity. Very often, customers end up feeling disappointed and frustrated when the items they had ordered do not meet their expectations. It is always advisable to view or try on an item personally before buying it.

Also, do not be influenced by cheap sales. Not all such sales are genuine and many consumers have expressed their anger and dissatisfaction at being cheated. Cheap sales become ‘cheap sales’ when consumers are duped into buying something which is inferior in quality, soiled or overpriced.

You are also advised not to buy expired or damaged items. Consuming expired food may cause food poisoning. Therefore, always check the expiry date on any food item. You should refrain from buying food in dented tins, as it may not be safe for consumption.

Many consumers have fallen prey to misleading advertisements which promise users miracle cures to a variety of problems or ailments, such as giving them a full head of hair, or promising to change them into beautiful and desireable nymphs like the actresses who endorse these products. There is nothing in this world, except plastic surgery, that can change the way you look. Even plastic surgery has its dangers.

Be wary of the tricks used by traders to lure customers into buying an item, especially one you do not need. One tactics is by offering free gifts such as beautiful mugs, containers, or, even, toys to children. I advise you not to buy a product just to get the free gift. Similarly, do not buy a product just to enter competition.

Very often consumers find it difficult to get a replacement or a refund for a faulty, damaged or soiled item. This happens when they are unable to provide proof of purchase. Hence, it is advisable to keep receipts of items purchased until you are satisfied with the product.

As a consumer you have several rights. You should file a complaint if you are not satisfied with a product or service you have purchased. Also, you should report to the authorities if controlled items such as rice, sugar and flour are overpriced.

To become a smart consumer, you need to heed the advice I have given. Should you have any queries, you can always contact your local consumer association. With that, I end my speech. Thank you.

Directed Writing: Speech/Talk

noreply@blogger.com (Toraipsi86um96) — Fri, 17 Aug 2012 07:57:00 +0000

Good Morning to the Principal, teachers and students. I am Siti Nur Hanisah bt Mohamad Yazid, the president of the School Safety Club. This morning, I wish to talk to you about ‘Personal Safety – To, From and In School’.

Remember you will be safe when coming to school or returning from school if you move around in pairs or groups. There is always safety in numbers. When you are in a group, you will not be likely fall victim to criminals. If you are alone, it is safer to use the bus instead of the taxi. There are more people on the bus and you will be safe in company.

If you notice suspicious strangers anywhere, do not hesitate to report them to the school authorities. You will be able to save yourself or other young people from harm. After school, do not loiter around. Return home immediately after school. Your home is the safest place for you.

If you have to return home late, use brightly lit streets and avoid dark, lonely lanes. Many young people fall prey to snatch thieves and rapists in lanes which are hardly used. Most importantly, if something crops up in school and you are forced to return home late, inform your parents. In this way your parents can be on the lookout for you.

The school can also be a dangerous place if you do not take necessary precautions. If you have to leave the classroom to visit the toilet or for any reason, ask the teacher for permission. If the teacher is not in class and you have to leave in an emergency, inform a classmate before you get out of class. Let at least one person know of your whereabouts.

Another important piece of advice to follow all rules, regulations and instructions. These are safety measures and if you follow them you will be safe. Also avoid empty classrooms and dark corners. Danger always lurks in these places. If for some reason your parents are late in picking you up from school, wait near the guardhouse. You can be sure there will be people there at all times.

I hope you are convinced that there are many threats to your personal safety. Do pay heed to all that I have told you and follow the steps I have outlined to you. Remember we want you to be safe at all times.

Thank you.

Directed Writing: Letter - Reply

noreply@blogger.com (Toraipsi86um96) — Fri, 17 Aug 2012 07:56:00 +0000

Your cousin has just been offered a place in Form 6. However, he has also been offered a factory job at a monthly salary of RM800. His family is not rich. He writes to you to ask for your opinion, as he has always loved and respected you.

Write a letter to him, giving your opinion. You should base your letter on the points given above, adding any other information or ideas of your own.

When writing this letter, you should remember that:

· you are writing to your cousin, who loves you

· your cousin is worried

· you have to use the proper letter format

· you should write grammatical sentences

Reasons for Leaving School	Reasons For Doing Form 6
Afraid to fail Form 6 Job offer Family not very well off Tired of studying	Family can still afford to support him Quite a good student Opportunity to enter university Better job prospects with STPM

Comment:

Even though this is an informal letter, you have to write full grammatical sentences. Include all the points given, elaborating on them. Use a warm tone and express love and concern.

Sample Answer:

21,Jalan SS4/17,

47301 Petaling Jaya,

2 APRIL 2012.

Dear Ibtisam,

It is great to hear from you after such a long time. Please send my regards to your family. Regarding your job offer, I have thought about it and here are a few points I would like to add to yours.

According to you, there are two reasons for taking up the job offer. Firstly, you family could use the extra income as you all are not very well off. You could then contribute instead of being a burden to them.

Secondly, you stated that you were afraid of failing Form 6, which is acknowledged by some students as the hardest exam in the world. If you do fail, you will have wasted two years in Form 6. Furthermore, you are tired of studying and decide that you want to start working.

There are, however, a few good reasons why you should continue your studies. Your family can actually still afford to support you as Form 6 is not very expensive. Besides, I am sure that your father would like to see you complete your studies as you have always been quite a good student.

If you do well in your Form 6, you will then be able to enter university. This will open up a lot of good job prospects for you. Even with just STPM qualification, you can still earn a higher wage. This will eventually be worth more than your two years’ working experience, that is if you decide to start working now.

Therefore, in conclusion, I would advise you to do form 6 if you feel confident in yourself and if your family agrees to support you. If you decide to go for it, make sure you do your best.

Your cousin,

Amira

Directed Writing: Letter - Reply

noreply@blogger.com (Toraipsi86um96) — Fri, 17 Aug 2012 07:52:00 +0000

Dear Aileen,

Thank you for your letter which I received two weeks ago. I am glad to know that you are in good health.

In your letter, you asked me to look for a college which offers a computing course. Well, I went around to several renowned colleges in Kuala Lumpur and asked for information on the computing courses offered. I also discussed the matter with several friends who are doing similar courses and they, too, agree that you should take up the Diploma in Computing Course at Hidayah College.

Hidayah College has a proven track-record. The students from Hidayah College re highly sought after as they are knowledgeable, skilled and reliable. Moreover, the duration of this course is only 10 months. This means you will be able to finish faster and join the workforce much sooner. I know this is important to you as you want to lighten your parents’ burden, more so since your father is going to retire soon. Furthermore, the college promises that you will get a job once you complete the course.

Another reason why you should take up the course at this college is the low fee if RM 3 500 which is payable in two installments. The other colleges charge between Rm 5 000- Rm 8 000 for similar courses and the payments must be made upon enrolment. I know that you would definitely prefer to pay in two installments so as not to tax your parents too much.

In addition, Hidayah College is well-equipped. The lecture rooms are air-conditioned and the library is well-equipped. You will be able to study in comfort and need not go to other libraries to source for reference materials. Moreover, the lecturers are experienced. Most importantly, the college allows free use of computers. This means that you need not buy a computer and so you can cut down on expenses. Another way you can cut down on costs is by staying in the hostels provided by the college. Living in Kuala Lumpur can be very difficult especially for those on a tight budget as food and housing costs are very expensive. The college charges reasonable rates for the hostel and I know that you can get cheap food in that vicinity. Finally, the college promises scholarships to its top students who wish to pursue a degree course. With your diligence and determination, I am sure that you will be one of the recipients of this scholarship award.

I have no doubts that this college is suitable for you. If you need more information, please do not hesitate to call.

Till I hear from you, take care

Your friend

Anuar Mahalil

Directed Writing: Letter to the editor

noreply@blogger.com (Toraipsi86um96) — Fri, 17 Aug 2012 07:48:00 +0000

Nizam Adzhar bin Chalmen,

36 Jalan TR15/33,

Taman Fazreena,

45100 Pernas

The Editor

Morning Star,

23 Jalan Iman,

45100 PERNAS 14 February 2012

Dear Madam,

Proximity of Shopping Complex to school

I wish to express my concerns regarding the location of the mega shopping complex that is taking shape around SMK Tasik Fazreena. SMK Tasik Fazreena is a good school and the discipline of the students is very good. However, things may change soon.

2. I believe that truancy is going to be a major problem because the shooping complex is less than 100 metres from the entrance of the school. Students are going to be attracted to the exciting activities happening at the shopping complex. They will start missing classes.

3. Students will also waste a lot of time loitering I the shopping complex. Even if they do not miss school, they will go there after school instead of going home or to extra-curricular activities.

4. Another social problem that will be created is that of young students mixing with bad company. We know that many drug pushers, addicts and gangsters, hang out at shopping complexes, waiting for victims. Innocent teenagers may start mixing with bad company and get involved in unhealthy habits or even criminal activities.

5. A disadvantage of having a shopping complex so close to the school is that children will be attracted to it and get into the habit of frequenting the shops. Parents may not be able to control their children’s spending.

6. Another problem that may arise is the disruption of teaching and learning. The loud music and promotional activities that are held frequently in shopping malls will infiltrate the school and capture the attention of the young and impressionable students.

7. Finally, the roads around SMK Tasik Fazreena are going to be congested. As it is now, there is already traffic congestion before and after school hours. With the opening of the complex, the volume of traffic is definitely going to increase.

These are some of the problems that we, the teachers and students of SMK Tasik Fazreena, anticipate. I hope the authorities concerned will take appropriate steps to overcome the problems mentioned.

Thank you.

(Nizam Adzhar bin Chalmen)

Directed Writing: Letter of Complaint

noreply@blogger.com (Toraipsi86um96) — Fri, 17 Aug 2012 07:46:00 +0000

Chia Meng Hui,

SMK Kayu Ara Pasong,

82010 Pontian,

Johor.

En Ramlan bin Parmin,

Principal,

SMK Kayu Ara Pasong,

82010 Pontian,

JOHOR 27 March 2012

Dear Sir,

Poor Quality of Food and Services at School Canteen

As Head of the Canteen Prefects, I wish to complain about the poor quality of food and services by our school canteen.

2. First of all, there are several complaints about the lack of variety in food. The menu is the same every day. As a result, students get bored of the same food. Students also say that the food served is tasteless and cold. Food should be cooked and served piping hot. In addition, the food sold is unhealthy. At times it is oily and at other times it is too salty. In the long run our health will suffer as we may end up with high blood pressure or high cholesterol. Something needs to be done about this situation.

3. I have also noticed that the food prepared is unhygienic conditions. Most of the time cooked food is left uncovered and the vegetables are washed on the dirty floor. Recently many students have fallen ill with food poisoning.

4. Quite often the cutlery, that the workers say has been washed, is oily. This simply proves that the cutlery is not washed properly.

5. Several students have complained that the canteen workers are rude. They bark at the students for no rhyme or reason. In addition, the workers are careless when returning the change. Students are often short-changed. This must stop.

6. Another criticism I have against the workers is that they are not properly dressed. When handling food, workers are required to wear aprons, caps and gloves to ensure cleanliness is maintained at all times.

We hope that the school administration will attend to our complaints and take necessary action a soon as possible. Thank you.

Yours faithfully

(Chia Meng Hui)

Leisure by William Henry Davies

noreply@blogger.com (Toraipsi86um96) — Sun, 17 Jun 2012 11:21:00 +0000

Stare: to look at something or someone for a long time without moving your eyes.

Bough: a main branch on a tree.

Streams: it shines through an opening into a place or onto surface.

Glance: to quickly look at someone or something.

Enrich: to improve the quality of something

Stanza 1

What is this life if, full of care,

We have no time to stand and stare.

The poet asks of how this life would mean if we have the time to take a rest and feel the beauty of life.

Stanza 2

No time to stand beneath the bough

And stare as long as sheep or cows.

Working people nowadays have no time to rest and have some leisure time as they are too busy earning money for living.

Stanza 3

No time to see, when woods we pass,

Where squirrels hide their nuts in grass.

We have no time to experience the fresh air and the excitement of spending time in the jungle watching how the nature of the Earth works as we are too busy working in the town.

Stanza 4

No time to see, in broad daylight.

Streams full of stars, like stars at night.

Since nowadays people work very hard in the daylight, they turn to be tired at night. As a result, they have no time to enjoy the beauty of the night seeing that they need to sleep for their body need to rest to start working early in the morning the next day.

Stanza 5

No time to turn at Beauty’s glance,

And watch her feet, how they can dance.

We have no time to care about our mothers; how they take care of us and doing the house chores in order to raise us and to make us live in a happy and comfortable environment.

Stanza 6

No time to wait till her mouth can

Enrich that smile her eyes began.

We have no time to even take a look at our mothers to curve a smile again and the eyes that hide all the pain and suffer in raising us.

Stanza 7

A poor life this is, if full of care,

We have no time to stand and stare.

The poet feels that a life without appreciating the nature is seen as a lifeless life because we don’t have the time for our self to care of the beauty of nature.

SAMPLE QUESTIONS:

i. What does the persona long for? Explain why.

…………………………………………………………………………………………………...

(1 mark)

ii. Give one example of something he has overlooked so far because of his work or study.

…………………………………………………………………………………………………...

(2 marks)

A Fighter’s Lines by Marzuki Ali.

noreply@blogger.com (Toraipsi86um96) — Sun, 17 Jun 2012 11:17:00 +0000

Worn: the past participle of wear.

Independence: political freedom from control by the government of another country.

Remnants: a small parts of something that remains after the rest of it has been used.

Crippled: who is unable to walk properly because their legs are damaged or injured.

Deceit: behaviour that is intended to make someone believe something that is not true.

Erect: in a straight upright position.

Heirs: the person who has the legal right to receive the property or title of another person when they die.

Stanza 1

I am old and worn

And have lost all my strength

Sufferings

And the history of the fight for independence

Have forced sacrifices

That know no name

Or life

The first stanza explains on the condition of the poet who was once a combatant; a retired soldier. He is unable to fight anymore like he used to because he is old and has lost all the strength that he has had before. He explains that the war for independence sacrificed many lives.

Stanza 2

From the wheelchair of the rest of my days

I, body and energy crushed

See and cannot do much

These times are too big a challenge

For the remnants of my crippled years

The net of deceit spread everywhere

Disturbs me.

In the second stanza, through the word wheelchair we can recognize that the poet is a paralyzed person. These days are too challenging for him as he is unable to do many things on the wheelchair for him to spend his spare life. He also includes that he is uncomfortable and disturbed by the dirtiness played by the people nowadays.

Stanza 3

In the name of justice

Wake up and form ranks sons of our ancestors

Be brave

And erect a wall of people

Stand up heirs of our freedom

In the third stanza, the poet urges the youngsters to wake up and unite to speak for their freedom and continue as what they ancestors had done many years ago.

Stanza 4

I have no more voice

It is you now who should speak

The last two lines shows that the poet has already given up and ready to give the responsibility to the new generation to continue their fight.

SAMPLE QUESTIONS:

i. What does the persona mean by sacrifices that know no name or life in stanza 1?

…………………………………………………………………………………………………..

(1 mark)

ii. Why is the persona urging the younger generation to continue the fight for freedom?

…………………………………………………………………………………………………..

(2 marks)

Heir Conditioning - by M.Shanmughalingam

noreply@blogger.com (Toraipsi86um96) — Sun, 17 Jun 2012 11:14:00 +0000

Flustered: confuse or nervous.

Fluttered: insects or birds fly by moving their wings lightly up and down.

Necessities: something that you need to have in order to live.

Ignorance: lack of knowledge or information about something.

Pollution: the process of making air, water, soil etc dangerously dirty and not suitable for people to use.

Destruction: the act or process of destroying something or of being destroyed.

Streams: a long and almost continuous series of events, people, objects etc.

Stanza 1

Grand dad did you breathe

Before air cons were invented

Was it hard staying

Alive without modern inventions?

Grandma weren’t you flustered

As you fluttered with paper fans?

Could you communicate before

Faxes and long distance calls

Became basic necessities?

In the first stanza, the poet asks his grandparents about the life before the technology arouse and become the important usage in the world nowadays. He asks his grandfather was it complicated to live in the life without technology as he refers the technology to the invention of the air cons. Then he asks his grandmother regarding the condition when she used paper fans to cool herself. He also asks his grandmother what were the possibilities for them to communicate without faxes and long distance calls compared to the world nowadays.

Stanza 2

Grandchild we lived

Before your age. Because

Of our ignorance,

We did not know

Pollution, stress, traffic jams

Destruction of forests, streams and

Hills

We feared God and nature

Now nature fears you and

Money is your new God.

The second stanza shows the answers given by the poet’s grandparents that sum up all the questions in one simple answer. The reason on why they did not experience all the pollution, stress, traffic jams, and destruction of forests, streams and hills is because of their ignorance; they were lack of knowledge by that time. His grandparents add, the only thing that they fear is God and nature but now, the nature turns to fear the entire human race and money is the only obsession to human.

SAMPLE QUESTIONS:

i. What does the phrase “did you breathe” in Stanza 1 convey to you about the child’s reaction?

…………………………………………………………………………………………………

(1 mark)

ii. Explain one message that is implied in Stanza 2.

………………………………………………………………………………………………...

(2 marks)

I Wonder - by Jeannie Kirby

noreply@blogger.com (Toraipsi86um96) — Sun, 17 Jun 2012 11:09:00 +0000

Stanza 1

I wonder why the grass is green,

And why the wind is never seen?

The poet questions on why the colour of the grass is green but not the other colours. In this world we have so many colors like blue, yellow and gray. However, we can only see green as the colour of the grass throughout the Earth. The poet also questions on why is the wind cannot be seen. As human, we can feel things via the sense of touch through contacts made with our skin. Nevertheless, we cannot see the wind although we can feel it on our skin.

Stanza 2

Who taught the birds to build a nest,

And told the trees to take a rest?

In the first line, the poet wonders who gave the birds the knowledge to build such a perfect nest to live on. This is because; most birds build their own nest for their little ones and for them to live. As compared to animals, human need to be taught to learn some skills or abilities. The second line shows the curiosity of the poet on the trees that don’t move like other living things.

Stanza 3

O, when the moon is not quite around,

Where can the missing bit be found?

We all know that the moon is round in shape. However, sometimes the moon loses its shape and become half or three quarter of its real shape. The poet is curious on where would the other parts of the moon have gone to.

Stanza 4

Who lights the stars, when they blow out,

And makes the lightning flash about?

The stars always appear at night but disappear as the morning comes. This occurrence makes the poet to think that there is a person who light up the stars as the night comes and the lightning flash in the night sky.

Stanza 5

Who paints the rainbow in the sky,

And hangs the fluffy clouds so high?

Rainbow is the combination of 7 lines that appears in 7 colors after the rain stops. The poet is curious on how would the rainbow appear in the sky. Looking at the rainbow also makes the poet to question about the clouds located up in the sky that looks like they are hanging.

Stanza6

Why is it now, do you suppose,

That Dad won’t tell me, if he knows?

The poet is wondering on why his father refuses to explain all the questions above. This is maybe because of the poet is too small to understand all the consequences that happen naturally in this world.

SAMPLE QUESTIONS:

i. Why does the persona think that the trees are taking ‘a rest’?

…………………………………………………………………………………………...

(1 mark)

ii. What is the nature of the child who is asking all the questions

…………………………………………………………………………………………...

………………………………………………………………………....………………...

(2 marks)

THE RIVER - Valerie Bloom ( Form 1 poem )

noreply@blogger.com (Toraipsi86um96) — Sun, 17 Jun 2012 11:03:00 +0000

Wanderer: a person who moves from place to place and has no permanent home.

Nomad: a member of a tribe that travels from place to place instead of living in one place all the time, usually in order to find grass for their animals.

Tramp: someone who has no home or job and moves from place to place, often asking for food or money.

Hoarder: a collection of things that someone hides somewhere, especially so they can use them later.

Gurgles: flows along gently with a low sound.

Hums: to sing a tune by making a continuous sound with your lips closed.

Vexed: old-fashioned to make someone annoyed or worried.

Gobbled: to eat something very quickly especially in an impolite or greedy way.

This poem consists of 6 stanzas. Each stanza talks about the different characteristics of the river. The river is embodied with human nature or character in each stanza.

Stanza 1

The River’s a wanderer,

A nomad, a tramp,

He doesn’t choose one place

To set up his camp.

In stanza 1, the river is characterized as a wanderer, a nomad and a tramp. The focus in stanza 1 is about the words wanderer,nomad and tramp. The river is like a person; a wanderer who keeps on moving from one place to the other without stopping at any particular place for long. Same goes to the river which continues flowing and never stops.

Stanza 2

The River’s a winder,

Through valley and hill

He twists and he turns,

He just cannot be still.

In stanza 2, the river is characterized as a winder. It keeps twisting and turning and just can't seem to be able to keep still as if it does not rest or stops. Even though there are valleys or hills upfront, the river will continue flowing by adapting the surface of the Earth. It talks about the inability of the river to remain at rest like a child who is unable to keep still.

Stanza 3

The River’s a hoarder,

And he buries down deep

Those little treasures

That he wants to keep.

In stanza 3, the river is potrayed as a hoarder. The river is like a person; a hoarder who likes to accumulate or gather things which are well hidden or guarded from others at its base or bottom.Because when the river flows, it won’t stop to evade things which come across its way. The river will carry all the things with it and bury them in the river bed. All the hidden things at the bottom of the river gives it a myterious aura.

Stanza 4

The River’s a baby,

He gurgles and hums,

And sounds like he’s happily

Sucking his thumbs.

In stanza 4, the river is pictured as a baby. The sound of running water of a river is characterized as the sound of a baby gurgling, humming and sucking his thumb. In addition, a baby’s voice sometimes can be too loud and sometimes it can be too slow. Same goes to the river, whenever he goes fast down the stream the sound is loud and when it comes to a more flat ground, the sound lessen and sometimes it cannot be heard.

Stanza 5

The River’s a singer,

As he dances along,

The countryside echoes

The notes of his song.

In stanza 5, the river is potrayed as a singer seeing that the river’s movement is significant to the movement of a singer on the stage. While moving, the river moves with sounds and the sound of flowing water of the river resonates and is heard throughout the countryside.

Stanza 6

The River’s a monster

Hungry and vexed,

He’s gobbled up trees

And he’ll swallow you next.

The river is said to be a monster which can cause massive destruction when it's angry. Because, when the water level increases and the speed of the stream is boosted, it will be a disaster that no one could stop it until it alleviate itself. It shows how a calm river can turn into a destructive force of nature especially during a flood which in turn can destroy properties and even cause death to people.

SAMPLE QUESTIONS:

i. Why does the poet call the river ‘a hoarder’?

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

(1 mark)

ii. Explain how the river’s journey is like Man’s journey through life?

……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

(2 marks)

18 Everyday English Words That Come from Irish

noreply@blogger.com (Toraipsi86um96) — Fri, 16 Mar 2012 22:24:00 +0000

Break out your "Kiss me, I’m Irish" shirt, lads and lassies; St. Patrick’s Day is comin’ a’callin. While you’re nursing a green beer at your favorite pub, look like a nerd dazzle your friends with your knowledge of the Irish origins of some common English words such as these. (If they say, "Hey, that word’s etymology is Scottish Gaelic," tell them Scottish Gaelic grew out of Middle Irish, and then punch them in the gob.)

Whiskey: It may be a cheap shot, but we’ve got to start with one that’s alcohol-related. Yes, it was the Irish who brought us whiskey, or uisge beatha, "the water of life." We do not recommend it as a healthy substitute for water.
Boycott: There’s no word evolution involved with this one. Some folks in County Mayo, Ireland decided to fight back against a stubborn land agent for an English landlord who wouldn’t lower their rent. So they refused to have any dealings with one Capt. Charles Cunningham Boycott.
Slob: It would actually be an understatement to call someone who regularly wears clothes covered with mud a "slob." Yet the word derives from the Irish word slab, meaning mud.
Hooligan: Without this word we’d just have to call soccer fans "criminals." No one argues it’s Irish in origin, but exactly what it sprang from is murky. Perhaps a gang leader and cop-killer of the same name gave rise to the term, or the family name of a rowdy Irish clan. We’d believe either.
Gob: Do people ever tell you to shut your gob? Based on the context, you probably deduced they meant shut your talk-hole. It’s slang, which means there’s speculation involved, but this word most likely comes from the Irish for "beak" or "mouth."
Gibberish: The Irish had to come up with a word to explain talking while drunk. "Gibberish" could be from the Celtic gibber, or the Gaelic gabairechd, meaning unintelligible talk. It could even be a play on "gob" or "gab."
Leprechaun: Here’s one you should be able to call to mind even after a few pints. Many believe the word comes from the Irish leipreachán, meaning "pygmy." We prefer the theory that it refers to their penchant for shoe-making: leath bhrógan roughly translates into "one-shoe-maker." After all, no one’s ever caught a leprechaun making two shoes at once…
Brogue: The sartorially savvy will recognize this term for leather shoes with elaborate stitching on the top and sides. We got the name from the bróg, a stout, rough shoe worn by Irish highlanders. The term became intertwined with heavy Irish accents because people with them typically wore the shoes, too.
Slogan: Weird to think the term for a war cry has now come to describe what a chorus line sings about paper towels. The Gaelic sluaghghairm breaks down into "army" (sluagh) and "shout" (ghairm). Soldiers would scream their "slogan" at the top of their lungs before rushing into battle.
Clan: If you’re a Smith, Murphy, Kelly, or Shea, you likely belong to a longstanding Irish clan. The word comes from the Gaelic clann and the Old Irish cland signifying "family" or "offspring."
Galore: Galore means an abundance; a plethora, if you will. And we all know what that is. "Galore" comes from the Irish gu leor, meaning "enough."
Shamrock: You’ll see plenty of these on St. Patty’s Day. The reason is St. Patrick used the seamróg, or "little clover," to demonstrate the three aspects of God: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Shamrocks came to be considered holy plants because of the association.
Phony: This is another slang term, which makes tracking its etymology difficult. However, it is believed to derive from fáinne, the Irish word for "ring." Sailors and swindlers would often try to pass off brass rings as gold ones, thus the connotation of something that is not what it appears to be.
Loch: OK, the Loch Ness Monster might not be something that comes up in conversation every single day, but as far as urban legends go it’s a household name. The "loch" is Irish for "body of water," vis-à-vis a lake.
Smithereens: Let’s just say first, "smithereens" is a fantastic word. What was it blown to? Smithereens! It spawned from the Irish word smidirin, meaning "fragments," as the diminutive version of smiodar, "fragment."
Banshee: You may have heard this word from an elder at some point when you were running around the house screaming as a child. Turns out it is kind of insulting to apply it to a guy. It comes from the Irish bean sidhe, the "female of the elves" who called to the spirits of the dead. So, it basically means "fairy queen," and them’s fighting words.
Bard: English majors love to refer to Shakespeare as "the Bard." Before, you could one-up them by rubbing the fact that you have a job in their face. Now you know the etymology: from the Celtic bardos, a singer or poet.
Slew: Remember sluaghghairm? Sluagh is also the place we get our word meaning "a large number or quantity." As in, you now possess a slew of information about English words with Irish origins. Tá fáilte romhat. (You’re welcome.)

44 Body Language Mistakes You're Probably Making - Online College Courses

noreply@blogger.com (Toraipsi86um96) — Wed, 07 Mar 2012 11:31:00 +0000

44 Body Language Mistakes You're Probably Making - Online College Courses

Continuous Writing: Descriptive - Sample Essay

noreply@blogger.com (Toraipsi86um96) — Thu, 27 Oct 2011 22:27:00 +0000

DESCRIBE YOUR TEACHERS

Teachers play an important part in the lives of students like me because we usually meet them five days a week. Some of my teachers fill my soul with fear, the very thought of them even makes my heart drop. There are others, however, who are not so frightening at all, and may in act brighten our days.

One teacher who is liked by almost every pupil in my school is Mrs Jenny Lee, who teaches us English. Tall and slim, with a heart-shaped face, Mrs Lee is known as the prettiest teacher in our of school. The boys of my school often look out their classrooms to admire this lovely teacher as she passes by their classrooms, gliding on her high heels, with her long silky hair flowing behind her.

Mrs Lee has a personality to match her looks. You will nearly always see her face wreathed in a sunny smile. She almost never gets angry and even when she scolds us, she still sounds sweet and gentle. I clearly remember the last time she chided me for not doing my composition homework.

“How will you ever improve if you don’t make the effort, Brian,” she murmured kindly, looking at me with warm eyes. I felt so sorry!

Another teacher who has made me feel really sorry for neglecting my work is Mr Joginder Singh, my teacher for Accounts. However, his method for doing so is completely different!

Mr Singh is a huge mountain of a man. He is over six feet in height and over 200 pounds in weight, all of it muscle. He looks the typical Punjabi warrior, with his turban, bushy beard, hooked nose, and piercing eyes.

As in the case of Mrs Lee, Mr Singh's looks also match his personality, especially his voice, which is always very loud. He is about the only teacher I know who can deliver an hour-long lesson at full volume without getting a sore throat! No one falls asleep during his lessons. Actually, no one would dare to, as this fierce teacher would take quick action with his long cane. No one ever dares to neglect the homework that he sets either — the piles and piles of it! Mr Singh’s motto is “No pain, no gain”. I am not sure whether he is referring to the pain from the cane or the pain from doing the homework.

Yet, however much we students may complain, there is no doubt that many students have gained tremendously from being under Mr Singh’s care. Our school’s performance in Accounts for SPM is exceptionally high! Clearly, Mr Singh’s motto is a sound one. However, it can also be noted that our performance in English Language is also considered excellent. Perhaps, Mrs Lee’s motto is also valid, and it is “A spoonful of sugar helps the medicine go down”.