LEARN,TEACH, LOVE

English Language Programmes for Schools in Johor 2012

2012-01-12T09:45:00.000+08:00

Enclosed is the letter issued by the Johor Education Department pertaining to the execution of English Language programmes in 2012. For the secondary schools, the programmes are:

English Literature Component
EW 20
LET ( Learn English Together)
English Language Module
An Essay a Month
English Zone
Plad JB
JOSAS ( Johor Spelling Assessment Standard )

Program Bahasa Inggeris Sekolah-Sekolah Negeri Johor 2012

Goodbye 2011, Hello 2012!

2012-01-02T06:31:00.003+08:00

It's time to put our noses to the grindstone, folks! I know it has been a long hiatus as I was tied up with work during the school break. Alhamdulillah, 2011 had given me various opportunities to improve myself as a teacher, a learner and an individual. I've tried my hands at writing for local newspaper (E-Lab, Utusan Malaysia), working with BPK, writing an academic paper on the use of Web 2.0. in English Language teaching for a book, targetted at international ELT practitioners ( under the tutelage of AP Dr. Kamarul Kabilan, USM), working with intelligent and wonderful students leaders (JSLC), presenting my papers at two international conferences (MELTA and ICELT), receiving awards for my work (PPDJB and JPNJ), shortlisted for Hadiah Latihan Persekutuan (HLP) scholarship and the cherry on the top was spending almost 2 weeks at Snowy River School of Leadership in Melbourne, Australia two weeks ago. Honestly, I could not have achieved all that without stellar support from my family, my friends and my colleagues. Apart from that, it has been a bittersweet year for me. Thinking how I struggled with the pain of recovering patella, overcoming the trauma from a robbery, painful accusations and my own shortcomings, I believe sometimes God gives you the adversity for you to be more resilient, to press on and to move forth. When the going gets tough, the tough gets going.

This year, I would still be heading my English Language panel and alhamdulillah, we managed to get 100% percentage for English Language in PMR exam this year! That's something I am proud of because this is the first time we managed to do that after so many years. I know my colleagues worked so hard to achieve our target. It is definitely a collaborative effort and I am glad that I have the opportunity to work with diligent and talented teachers. Of course, there's always room for improvement and I'm determined to strive harder to achieve my goals. For those looking for the English Language's Scheme of Works, PLAN J, PLAD JB and Panel Filing System, do check my Scribd page where I've uploaded them along with other essential docs needed to manage your panel smoothly.

To those who send me emails, thank you so much and I am glad that this humble blog have assisted you in any way possible. The main reason why I write is not for self-glorification but because I believe by jotting down my experience, thoughts and teaching practices, I could reflect on ways I could improve myself as a teacher. For me, it is important for us to stay grounded despite the recognitions one received as it will pave an avenue to learn better. I would definitely love to share my experience in Melbourne, Australia as I believe it was the turning point of my life this year but that would be an entry on itself as I was there for 12 days. There's so much to share and I believe the experience I've gained would helped me to teach more efficiently, to inspire instead of preaching and to serve instead of receiving.

I do hope this new year will usher wonderful opportunities and perpetual happiness, Insya Allah. Happy New Year everyone!

Power Of Being A Good Teacher

2011-11-19T17:56:00.001+08:00

I came across these videos while searching for some resources on You Tube. The topic was 'Power of Being A Good Teacher' which is relevant to my professional growth. The guest is Professor Dr. Muhaya Hj. Muhammad, Personal and Professional Development Expert, Alliance College of Medical Science (ACMS) and someone who I admire for her attitude towards life, her string of accolades and optimistic life principles. I totally agree with her when she stressed that in order to be an excellent teacher, you can't stop learning and you ought to constantly upgrade yourself from time to time. Personally, I do hope I will be able to emulate all my former teachers and lecturers who have been great sources of inspiration. One essential thing I've learned from them is to stay down to earth and to keep on learning. Do check out the videos below and I hope they would inspire you as they had inspired me. Happy holidays!

Leadership and English Language Camp (LELaC V)

2011-11-18T08:48:00.001+08:00

Wondering what to do this school holidays?

Why not head down to Penang and take part in LELaC V? I was contacted by the creator of LELaC, AP Dr Muhamamd Kamarul Kabilan of School of Educational Studies, USM, Malaysia recently and I think it's a brilliant programme to enhance your leadership qualities and inculcate love towards the English Language. It is opened for students aged 9-17 years old. It would be held from 6-8 December 2011 at Seberang Perai Polytechnic, Penang. Registration fee is RM190, including food and accomodation. For ex LELaCers, you only pay RM160.

Here are some information extracted from LELaC's flyer :

AIMS of LELaC

The content of this programme aims to encourage and motivate learners to:

- become a confident, motivating leader and communicator

- become a confident speaker

- convey thoughts effectively

- get people to listen to your opinions

- feel confident and assured when leading a large group of individuals

METHOD:

LELaC aims to help the learners achieve the above by:

- focusing mainly on skill building as a leader and effective speaker.

- using interesting and challenging activities that will get learners thinking creatively (in a collaborative, fun atmosphere)

- building the skills and confidence to talk to anyone, anywhere, anytime!

If you are interested, please e-mail Dr. Kabilan kabilan@usm.my or call 0123490305 to register. The closing date is on 4th December 2011. Do check it out :)

Tips for 1119 English Language Paper

2011-11-14T16:49:00.001+08:00

Tomorrow, all the Fifth formers will sit for the 1119 English paper. I guess the teachers are as jittery as the students when it comes to examination. Here are some gentle reminders on some aspects that you need to remember in preparing for the upcoming examination.

Literature:

• Remember S.T.A.M.P. (Setting/Themes/Actors (Characters)/Moral Values/Plots. They will usually test you on one of the aforementioned literary elements.

• Know your novel well. Read the novel once through before your exam to refresh your memory about the events that occur. Highlight important events (including sad and happy events) and the effect of these events on the characters. Justify your answers with evidences from the novel.

• Find out synonyms of the important words found in all the poems.

Essay Writing:

• For directed writing, use all the points given and justify with appropriate examples.
• Do not waste time counting the number of words for directed writing. A page and a half would suffice.
• For continuous writing, choose the topic that you feel most confident writing. Infuse idiomatic expressions appropriately to enhance your composition.

Good luck and I pray that you'll be able to ace your 1119 paper! ♥

MRSM's SPM Trial Exam Paper 2011

2011-11-03T12:30:00.002+08:00

I know it has been a long hiatus as I was rather occupied with streams of obligations. Apart from heading the panel in setting up the Johor Bahru's Final Year Examination paper for Form Four this year, I had to attend meetings with the CDD as well. Oh yeah, assessment management can definitely take a toll on your time as well. First, it was the SPM Trial Exam and now it's the final year exam papers for my Form 4 and Form 1 students. A teacher's work is endless! Nonetheless, I would like to share another set of trial exam questions with all of my blog readers and followers. This is the trial exam question from MRSM and I do hope that it would help the teachers and students in preparing for the upcoming SPM examination. Thanks to this site for the paper, sharing is caring! To those celebrating Hari Raya Haji, I wish you a blessed Eid :) MRSM's SPM Trial Exam 2011 - English Language

Johor Student Leaders Council 2011

2011-10-03T18:24:00.000+08:00

Phase 1 : Top 56 JSLC Candidates

Bil	Nama	Sekolah	Presentation Topic
1.	Nur Laili bt. Arba’	Sekolah Tinggi Segamat	‘Iskandar Malaysia – A Metropolis of International Standing
2.	Harvind a/l Raja Gopal	SMK Bandar Baru Uda	“ A leader is one who knows the way, goes the way, and shows the way” – John C. Maxwell
3.	Adila bt A. Aziz	SMK Agama Johor Bahru	‘A Call for Extraordinary Leadership for Iskandar Malaysia’
4.	Adrian Yeo Tau Jiun	SMK Skudai	‘Johor – My Beloved Home’
5.	Muhammad Fahmi b. Faizal	SM Sains Muar	‘An Age of Terror – The Role of Youth Leaders’
6.	Chitra a/p Murali	SMK Indahpura 1	‘Ethical Dimension of Leadership’
7.	Nur Atikah Rosle	Sekolah Tun Fatimah	‘Asia and The World Financial Crisis’
8.	Tan Mei Sheng	SMK Canoissian Convent	‘Service : The Heart of Community Transformation’
9.	Muhamad Afiq Syafiq	Sekolah Tinggi Muar	‘Understanding the Principles of Islam in an Age of Uncertainty’
10.	Zaiton bt. Mohamad Khalid	SMK Ungku Husin	“Your attitude, not your aptitude, will determine your altitude” – Zig Ziglar
11.	Kirthana Darshayinie a/p Vijaya Sandran	Sekolah Tinggi Kluang	‘Transforming Our Schools’
12.	Ambrose Huan Yee Yang	SMK Tasek Utara	‘Sustainable Development of Iskandar Malaysia’
13.	Muhamammad Noor Fakhruddin b. Mohd Nasir	SMK Tun Habab	‘Doing Away with Books in Schools’
14.	Hasnyzar bt. Hussin	SMK IJ Convent	‘Iskandar Malaysia – Development for the People, by the People of Johor’
15.	Faiz Zamdhi b. Zainal	SMK Taman Putri	‘Grassroots Leadership’
16.	Thivranandhaa a/l Sobramaniam	Sekolah Tinggi Muar	‘Fear of the Unknown’
17.	Dominic Tan Wen Haw	SMK Dato’ Jaafar	‘I Think, I Am!’
18.	Onn Sapuan b. Md. Nasir	SMK Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra	‘The Power of Reflection & Self- Awarenes’
19.	Muhammad Nurariff b. Othman	SMKA Segamat	‘Leadership & Volunteerism’
20.	Naavin Raj a/l Rengasamy	SMK Kempas	‘The Leader Who Inspires Me’
21.	Amira Aisya bt. Abd. Aziz	SMK(P) Sultan Ibrahim	‘I have a dream that…’
22.	Klein Kee Kay Loon	Sek. TInggi Batu Pahat	‘Freedom of Speech in School – Should It Be Encouraged?’
23.	Akmal Alkaff b. Zamsani	Maktab Sultan Abu Bakar	‘Taking Malaysian Football to the Next Level’
24.	Tam Joo Xian	SMK Jln Mengkibol	‘The Royal History of Johor’
25.	Nurulain bt. Abd. Razak	SMK Temenggong Ibrahim	‘The Power in the Voice of the Young People’
26.	Yasmin bt Mohd Zain	SM Sains Muar	‘Preserving Johor’s Culture and Heritage’
27.	Pritasha Naidu a/p Canian Anand Naidu	SMK IJ Convent	‘1 Malaysia, 1 Voice’
28.	Hayley Yong Sue Ning	SMK Sultanah Engku Tun Aminah	“Wisest is she who knows she does not know” – Jostein Gaarder
29.	Kabilen a/l Selvaraja	SMK Dato’ Penggawa Timur	‘You Don’t Need a Title to be A Leader’
30.	Aina Wafi bt. Ab Kadir	SMKA Segamat	“Live as if you were to die tomorrow. Learn as if you were to live forever” – Mohandas Ghandi.
31.	Amy Shahirah bt. Sazali	SMK Skudai	‘The Future of Our Mangrove Swamps’
32.	Asha Nair a/p Unnikrishnan	Sekolah Tinggi Segamat	‘Inequality Thwarts Progress Towards Universal Education’
33.	Gayathri a/p Ganesen	SMK Indahpura 1	‘The Rise of Women to Power Seats’
34.	Muhamad Muaz b. Mustaffa Kamal	SMK Bandar Putra, Segamat	‘In Great Leadership, Humility Is Key’
35.	Carven Chin Yee Shean	SMK Bandar Putra	‘’Failing to invest in our youth is a false economy” – UN Secretary General
36.	Nur Hanis bt. Ramlan	SM Sains Muar	‘Embracing Globalisation As Iskandar Malaysia Opens Its Doors to the World’
37.	Alif Arifin b. Asrar	SMK Bandar Putra	“He who fails to plan is planning to fail” – Winston Churchill
38.	Mark Lee Weiren	SMK Taman Mount Austin	‘The East African Food Crisis: What Needs to be Done’
39.	Siti Nurfakis bt. Kusnin	SMK Bandar Easter	‘Everyday Heroes Serving the Nation’
40.	Siti Nabilah bt. Amir	SMK Bandar Putra, Segamat	‘Climate Change and Biodiversity’
41.	Sharifah Amirah Hanis bt. Syed Omar	Sekolah Tun Fatimah	‘Nuclear: A Suitable Alternative to Fossil Fuels?’
42.	Siti Mariam bt. Ibrahim	SMK Bandar Baru Uda	‘Soft Power vs. Hard Power’
43.	Iman Sofea bt. Mohamad Ibrahim	SMK Taman Desa Skudai	‘Malaysia’s Commitment to the Millennium Development Goal’
44.	Putera Amirul Haikal b. Rosli	SMk Kulai Besar	‘What Goes Around Comes Around’
45.	Nicole Poon Sze Yen	SMK(P) Sultan Ibrahim	‘Quality Education for All – Challenges in the Malaysian Context’
46.	Mohammad Siddiq b. Moideen	SMK Sultan Ismail	‘Theory of Evolution vs. Creation Science’
47.	Mohammad Farhan b. Mohd Fuad	SMK Agama Johor Bahru	‘Exploring Links Between Environmental Quality and Human Health’
48.	Suruthi a/p Mohhan	SMK(P) Sultan Ibrahim	‘Promoting Stewardship In and Around the World’s Frontier Forests, Grassland and Drylands’
49.	Regine Moh Jia Wei	SMK Seri Perling	‘Acknowledging Differences and Celebrating Diversity for A Better Tomorrow’
50.	Alif Imran b. Kamaruddin	SM Sains Muar	“As we look ahead into the next century, leaders will be those who empower other” – Bill Gates
51.	Nurafidah bt. Mohamad Nizam	SMK(P) Sultan Ibrahim	“Leaders must invoke an alchemy of great vision” – Henry Kissinger
52.	Ong Bao Sheng	SMK Mohd Khalid	‘In Union, There is Strength’
53.	Arjun a/l A. Ravindran	Sek. Tinggi Batu Pahat	‘Respect is Earned and Not Demanded’
54.	Lee Wen Qing	SMK(P) Temenggong Ibrahim, Batu Pahat	‘Malaysia, Truly Asia’
55.	Siti Nursharmila bt. Md. Saidon	SMK Seri Tangkak	“My Vision of Iskandar Malaysia”
56.	Tan Yan Yi	SMK Sultan Ismail, JB	“If passion drives you, let reason hold the reins” – Benjamin Fraklin

Phase 2 : Individual Presentation & Group Interview

Some hopeful JSL candidates prepping themselves for the individual presentation, impromptu speech and group interview.

The JSL candidates' presentations were appraised by esteemed panel of judges, headed by Pn. Sallina Hussain, the Chairperson of the PKPSM JB. She was assisted by the Head of the Academic Sector, JPNJ and two lecturers from UTM.

I had the privileges to work with dedicated and wonderful team. We worked until 7 p.m. to sort out the final selection.

Phase 3: The Johor Student Leaders Council 2011

Congratulations to the 20 Johor Student Leaders who are selected to join the Johor Student Leaders Council this year. The leaders are not only selected based from verbal eloquency alone but leadership qualities, critical thinking and the ability to foster esprit de corps. They will be receiving their official letters of appointment from the JPNJ pretty soon. The team will be going through series of leadership training, etique and etiquette classes, diplomatic communications skills and oversea excursions to Australia and Netherlands.To those who didn't make it, bear in mind that you are still leaders in your schools and you can still make a difference!

1. Amira Aisya bt. Abd. Aziz - SMK(P) Sultan Ibrahim

2. Ambrose Huan Yee Yang - SMK Tasek Utara
3. Arjun a/l A. Ravindran - Sek. Tinggi Batu Pahat

4. Asha Nair a/p Unnikrishnan - Sekolah Tinggi Segamat

5. Harvind a/l Raja Gopal - SMK Bandar Baru Uda

6. Hasnyzar bt. Hussin - SMK IJ Convent

7. Hayley Yong Sue Ning - SMK Sultanah Engku Tun Aminah

8. Iman Sofea bt. Mohamad Ibrahim - SMK Taman Desa Skudai

9. Kabilen a/l Selvaraja - SMK Dato’ Penggawa Timur

10. Kirthana Darshayinie a/p Vijaya Sandran - Sekolah Tinggi Kluang

11. Mark Lee Weiren - SMK Taman Mount Austin

12. Mohammad Farhan b. Mohd Fuad - SMK Agama Johor Bahru

13. Muhamad Afiq Syafiq - Sekolah Tinggi Muar

14. Muhammad Fahmi b. Faizal - SM Sains Muar

15. Nurafidah bt. Mohamad Nizam - SMK(P) Sultan Ibrahim

16. Nurulain bt. Abd. Razak - SMK Temenggong Ibrahim

17. Ong Bao Sheng - SMK Mohd Khalid

18. Pritasha Naidu a/p Canian Anand Naidu - SMK IJ Convent

19. Sharifah Amirah Hanis bt. Syed Omar - Sekolah Tun Fatimah

20. Zaiton bt. Mohamad Khalid - SMK Ungku Husin

Negeri Sembilan's SPM Trial Examination Papers 2011

2011-10-01T08:31:00.000+08:00

Hi there,
For those looking for SPM 1119 trial exams from other states, enclosed are the papers from Negeri Sembilan. Hope these will assist you in doing revision for the upcoming SPM examination :)

ICELT 2011: A Photo Essay

2011-09-30T19:48:00.000+08:00

A 7-hour drive to Lumut was worth it. I carpooled with Kak Rahmah, Kak Fuzi & Kak Suzi, all GCs from Johor. Alhamdulillah, we managed to reach the venue albeit mild difficulties in finding the location. There were altogether 365 presentations and it was so hard to choose which session to attend as there were so many interesting papers presented during the parallel sessions. Some of the sessions ended at 7.30 p.m. ! I guess a conference of such magnitude would attract so many presenters and participants. The title itself forecasts the excitement that awaits in the teaching of English Language.

I presented a 30-minute paper presentation on the first day. I shared the findings of my classroom-based Action Research entitled '3-2-1 Action!: Digital Storytelling in ESL Classroom.' I carried out Digital Storytelling Project, a project-based learning where students produce the final products with facilitation from the teacher . I've prepared the Student Module to assist my 4 SN1 students in producing their videos as well as conducting Digital Storytelling Workshop with them. Well, it's about time we give the teacher the break and let the students do all the hard work :) My main objective in carrying out this AR is to promote engaging and meaningful student-centred learning via web-based tools. All the students' work are virtually accessable via the DSP's blog and DSP's Youtube Channel. I am so glad and flattered that a lot of participants expressed their interests in the project and would like to try Digital Storytelling with their students and their teacher trainees. To me, whether you like it or not, E-Learning will be the main approach in English Language Learning as more students are tech-savvy and demand a more interactive and personalised learning.

To me, the perk of attending international conferences is to learn new technique, approach and oratory skills from world-reknown International speakers. I was mesmerised by Jan Blake's expertise in storytelling where she captured the attention of every single participant in the room. Prof Alan Maley imparted a very important asset that we, teachers tend to overlook, our voice. He introduced fun and engaging way to help teachers maximise the flexibility of our voice without having to shout or strain our vocal chords too much. My personal favourite is Paul Cookson. He is so oh talented and gifted! I shared his poems with my sons and they simply enjoyed them :) I had the chance to meet and talk to Adisa, a famous British poet that fuses rythms and beats in poetry. These two men really transform the conventional notion of poetry recitation. Who says poetry is passe? ;) Oh yes, who could forget the 2 Steves. They are hyperactive narrative maestros that demonstrated their love for lively and dramatic stories. Honestly, the conference managed to revive my passion towards injecting performing arts in my classroom teaching. Kudos Dr. Jaya and the committee members!

I've met a lot of passionate educators who I've networked and shared my views, rants and ideas on teaching. Phewww, I was reunited with Sim, my former coursemate after 10 years leaving the college. How time flies! She looks lovely and jovial as ever :) I had the chance to meet Darshini, a bubbly blogger from Kuantan who I've been corresponding with via my blog. Although we both are working with CDD on some projects, we never had the chance to meet one another. After chitchatting, we discovered that we have mutual friends, how cool is that :) I met a group of Sabahan teachers that became my good friends during the conference. All of them forked out their own money and flew here just to attend the conference. Isn't that amazing? That's what I've been doing for the past 3 years, attending conferences sans financial support from others. Personally, some might call it crazy but to me, I enjoy learning new things and presenting helps me to sharpen my oratory skills too. I may not possess the vast experience like other presenters but I always believe that practice makes perfect.

Meeting Kak Rahmah, Kak Fuzi & Kak Suzi was a cherished moment as we shared our experiences and issues in school. Apparently, we faced similar predicament as it is challenging being a GC as some people in school might not understand why you have to go out most of the time. This is one of the main issues that I am facing at the moment. As GC, we need to carry out official duties from the District Education Office, State Education Department and Ministry of Education too. I've been working closely with the aforementioned parties this year and that unfortunately means I have to be away from school frequently. Some assume it's like taking a holiday from school but the reality is we work and run here and there like headless chicken trying to accomplished official duties apart from the core business of teaching in school. Despite the challenges, I believe that when the going gets tough, the tough gets going. I am thankful as my principal is understanding of my situation and she advises me to juggle my responsibilities wisely. Alhamdulillah, my husband has been so understanding and supportive of my situation and I count my blessing as I have good friends who have always been there for me when I need them.

ICELT 2011

2011-09-15T21:34:00.000+08:00

I'm off to Lumut, Perak this weekend to attend the International Conference on English Language Teaching (ICELT) 2011. I'm representing JPNJ and the title of my paper is '3-2-1 Action! : Digital Storytelling in ESL Classroom' which is based on my Action Research with 4SN1 recently. It took me about 2 months to conduct it as it involves hands-on activity (workshop on Digital Storytelling, writing storyboard and editting videos) to my target group (my students) and the project-based learning coordination as well. Nonetheless, I am glad that my students really cherished the knowledge and experience gained during the project.

The students are also exposed to the integration of Web 2.0. media tools (YouTube, Picnik, Facebook, Blog) in conducting this project. They really work hard to come up with their digital stories. They even surprised themselves (me too!) when they come up with such creative and wonderful videos. I dare say some of them are way better than me and you know, that's practically fine with me :) It's all about tapping into the students' creativity and utilising their multiple intelligence in learning English Language more efficiently. I do hope that sharing the experience of teaching Digital Storytelling with the conference participants would help others to see the potential of Digital Storytelling in enhancing verbal proficiency, creativity, active learning and high-order thinking skills. I am looking forward to learning more from other presenters and networking with other participants from all over the world.

Terengganu's SPM Trial Examination Papers 2011

2011-09-12T19:44:00.000+08:00

Hi there,

If you are looking for more SPM Trial Examination papers, I've enclosed the links to the papers set by the Terengganu Education Department, courtesy of this site. Click at the links below to download the exam papers. Sharing is caring!

The M Project: Being Malaysians

2011-09-10T19:35:00.000+08:00

In conjunction with the Merdeka month celebration in my school, I've came up with the M Project where the main themes of the lessons revolved around patriotism & Independence Day. In this context, the main educational emphases are on Thinking Skills, ICT, Knowledge Acquisition and Multiple Intelligences. There are so many ways the teachers can inculcate patriotism and raise awareness on ethnic harmony, national unity and tolerance. Rather than forcing them to embrace the 'I must be patriotic because I am a Malaysian or else, get out from this country' doctrine, I believe we should lead the students to form their own perspectives and reflections on their country via positive and constructive manners. Oh yeah, what best way than using multimedia and visual aids right? Here are some teaching aids that I've used to enhance the students' interest and patriotic fervour towards our beloved country, Malaysia.

a) Petronas' Merdeka Advertisements

Using television advertisement is a very effectual method of generating students' interests towards the topic. I always love the series of Petronas' Merdeka Advertisements as they act as catalysts during brainstorming session. You could use various questioning techniques (open-ended, probing and leading) to evoke responses. It works well, especially with weak students as the visual aids help them to come up with possible answers.

b) Project-based Learning

I always find project-based learning as the best way of boosting the students' interest and understanding towards a lesson as it generates active participation, collaboration skills, high thinking skills and indeed, a more meaningful lesson. For the M Project, the students work in group and produce a pamphlet on the topic 'Being Malaysians'. The students did this within 2 days and they really put strong effort in producing these pamphlets. Way to go! For more information on project-based learning, do check out Intel Teach programme.

Students' works.

The students' works were assessed and awarded.

c) Vlogging
This is the latest fad among the teens and I believe it can be fully utilised to teach English as well. Afterall, what best way to connect with the students then using the latest Web 2.0. technologies? Vlog is coined from video + blog = vlog and it's uberly popular nowadays. I've came across a lot of vloggers such as Mat Lutfi, Maria Elena, Anwar Hadi, to name a few. What I like about vlogging is that it fuses the elements of role playing and digital storytelling which make the viewing more engaging and entertaining. This is in parallel with my latest Action Research where I focussed on Digital Storytelling. Maybe we should encourage more students to try this out in class. That would definitely excite the students yet help them to utilise technologies in improving their language proficiency.

I've shown the vlogs below to my students and they helped the students to understand the concept of patriotism in a fun and meaningful way. Vlogging is a great learning alternative to enhance their confidence, vocabulary prowess and language competence.

2011's Johor SPM Trial Examination Paper 1

2011-09-07T23:28:00.000+08:00

I hope it is not too late to wish the best of luck to all of the SPM candidates who are sitting for their trial examination. To those who are in Johor, I do hope you have given your best shot in answering the 1119 English Language papers just now. I was amazed at the number of visitors who were looking for examination tips and samples of examination items. Fret not, enclosed is the Paper 1 just to help you out. If time permits, I'll upload Paper 2 pretty soon. I do hope it will help any teacher or student in preparing for the upcoming SPM. Do check out this blog from time to time for more trial examination papers from other states. Check it out!

Johor SPM Trial Exam P1

Selamat Hari Raya Aidilfitri

2011-08-25T17:46:00.002+08:00

Selamat Hari Raya to all my Muslim friends, students and blog visitors. May you have a blessed Eid, Insya Allah. Enjoy the Raya song :)

Update: Latest changes in 2011's Johor SPM Trial Examination Schedule

2011-08-21T19:00:00.000+08:00

To all teachers and SPM candidates in Johor, please take note of the changes. Surat Pindaan Jadual Percubaan SPM 2011

SBP's PMR & SPM Trial Examination Papers 2011

2011-08-20T14:44:00.000+08:00

For teachers and students who are searching for English Language trial examination papers from other states, enclosed are this year's trial examination papers from Boarding School Unit or Sekolah Berasrama Penuh (SBP). You can download the papers by clicking the links below. I'll try to update this blog with more trial examination papers soon. Credit to MOZAC's Exam Hub site.

Of Lesson Study and JSL Camp

2011-08-20T13:45:00.000+08:00

Man, it's been awhile since I've updated this blog due to super hectic schedule. I am in the midst of marking frenzy (2nd monthly test and Form 5's Gerak Gempur) while stealing time to go Raya shopping, spruce up the abode and bake Raya cookies. Hats off to working mommies who can do all that effortlessly! Here are the updates:

#1-Lesson Study Observation, SMK St. Joseph, Johor Bahru

Right after the Curse Item Building Workshop, I was appointed by PPD JB to be one of the observers for English Language Lesson Study at SMK St. Joseph. The other two observers were Mr. Ismail Juned, GC from SIGS and Mdm. Ho, GC from SMK Sri Rahmat. I've met Ms. Ruzana, our DELO and she gave a briefing on the duties we need to carry out that day. Despite the fact I've attended the Lesson Study Workshop organised by Majlis Guru Cemerlang (MGC) Johor Bahru, I believe that I've enhanced my understanding on Lesson Study better and gained more confidence in conducting the observation when I've listened to the explanation given by Pn. Rahmah Sayuti (Pakar Rujuk) and carried out the observation in a classroom. It was good meeting you again, Kak Rahmah! Datin Siti Haishah Abd. Rahman, PP of BPG at Ministry of Education was present as well, along with other officers. We were given the outline of the Lesson Plan which was drafted and planned by the English Language panel members of the school. While observing the teacher in the classroom (it was a Form 5's class), we jotted down the strengths of the lesson as well as suggestions in improving the lesson. Another criterion of Lesson Study is to have a discussion (post-teaching feedback) with the teacher and all the English Language panel members. The discussion primarily focuses on whether the Intended Learning Objectives were successfully achieved, the effectiveness of the methodology, class management skills and personal reflection on the lesson itself.

I felt the experience helped me to carry out Lesson Study more effectively in my own school. In fact, I've helped out the Form 6's teachers carried out their Lesson Study in their classrooms. I know what you're thinking, oh no, more workload! Honestly, I had qualms on it too at first. However, after going through the process, I think it's an effective way to foster collaborative learning and implement a continuous professional development in our career. As it is a collaborative effort, it's not about pinpointing an individual's shortcomings but more helping to find solutions in rectifying any issues pertaining to teaching. I've briefed my English Language panel members on Lesson Study and so far, the feedback is positive. I hope we can carry it out after Raya break. For more information on Lesson Study, please check this out.

#2- Johor Student Leaders 2nd Cohort Camp, Kem Tasek, JB

This is the first phase of the selection for the Johor Student Leaders Council for this year. About 200 student leaders from all over Johor were short-listed and chosen to participate in the Johor Student Leaders Camp. The 3 day-camp (29-31st July) was packed with physical activities, talks, workshops, games and teambuilding activities. The students had to endure all the rigorous tasks sans ample slumber. The JSLs (Qistina, Sarvind, Kothai, Syafiq, CY, Sebastian and Thanen (Junior Camp Commandent), facilitated most of the activities during the camp. Miss Azura who was the Camp Commandent did an excellent job of supervising all of the student leaders. Compared to the 1st JSLC Camp, the students' physical endurance and intellectual prowess were way better and it's definitely tough to choose only 20 Johor Student Leaders for this year. I was there as the Camp Coordinator, assisting Pn. Rosliza Rosli, the head of the Internationalisation Unit at JPNJ. I gave a talk on International Relations and Diplomatic Skills on the last day. Apart from that, we carried out Impromptu Speech where student leaders need to come up with an impromptu speech within 30 seconds. It was enlightening to see them enthusiastically volunteer to give their views on the topics given. The second phase would be carried out next month where this time, the focus is on personality and verbal eloquence. Good luck to the candidates!

Changes in PMR English Language Paper

2011-07-25T19:10:00.002+08:00

I would like to share the latest circular [ KP.LP.003.07.14.03(1) ] issued by the Ministry of Education pertaining to the PMR English Language paper. Starting next year, English Literature Component would no longer be tested in Paper 1 (12/1) but would be assessed in Paper 2 (12/2) in form of open-ended questions (poem) and open response with textual evidence (novel). No more MCQs. Short stories will not be tested.

For further details, please refer to the enclosed circular.

Latest Circular on PMR English Language Format

SPM Past Year's Questions : Novel

2011-07-23T20:02:00.004+08:00

YEAR	EXAMINATION ITEM	ELEMENT TESTED
2004	Choose an event in the novel you have studied which you find to be most memorable. Give reasons for your choice and with close reference to the text, discuss the event.	Plot
2005	‘Love is important in a family.’ How is this shown in the novel you have read? Support your answers with close reference to the text.	Theme
2006	The writer describes the main character as a very determined person. Using details from the novel you have studied, write about: -some instances that show the character’s determination. -how the determination affects his/her family.	Character & Characterisation
2007	‘It is important to have a person you look up to in your life.’ From the novel you’ve read, write about one character that you looked up to. Give a reason why you choose him/her.	Character & Characterisation
2008	Describe what happens at the end of the novel and explains why you find the ending happy or sad.	Plot
2009	Using the details from the novel you have studied, write about a difficult decision made by one of the characters. With close reference to the text, do you think this was the right decision?	Character
2010	Based on the novel that you have read, write about an important incident that you remember. Give reasons why you remember the incidents.	Plot

This morning, I facilitated the Curse Item Building Workshop organised by the Johor Bahru's English Language Panel at SMK Sultanah Engku Tun Aminah (SETA). Despite the fact I just got back from a week meeting with CDD in KL last night, I felt it's my responsibility to be there and assist my team mates ( the ever esteemed Pn. Jamiah and resourceful Pn. Ho). The main objective of organising this workshop is to assist the teachers in facilitating revision for the Curse as it is the first time it would be tested in SPM this year. Thank you to all the teachers who took part in designing the module. If you are interested to use the module, check out my Scribd doc. Thanks to Ms. Ruzana Saat, the District English Language Officer for her ideas and sponsoring our food :)

Johor's Trial Exam Schedule 2011

2011-07-06T15:01:00.003+08:00

Click on image for higher resolution

Mag Inc. 2011 : Students' Work

2011-06-30T23:01:00.003+08:00

Finally, it's time to send in your mini-mags! Alhamdulillah, 112 students from SMK Tasek Utara are taking part in Mag Inc Competition this year. As this is the first time we're taking part, I think that's a good start. I am extremely proud of my students as they showed tremendous effort in producing their mini-mags.

I've learned a lot of things from coordinating this project. First of all, I need to make sure I relay the accurate information to my students as it's crucial they adhere to the rules and regulations of the competition. Since it was my first time coordinating this project, I had to make a lot of phone calls to Sharon and Brenda, the NIE reps at The Star. Thank you so much for your patience in answering all my queries! Anyway, the NIE workshop I've attended months ago was very helpful as well. To Mr. Aru, thank you so much for sending off the templates despite the short notice. Honestly, this year I am determined to make this work out as my school never participate in Mag Inc Competition before. Hence, I believe it can be a good exposure for students to hone their writing skills and display their creativity as well.

Anyway, I had to remind my students on the dateline constantly but hey, they did it! Brilliant mini-mags produced by diligent and uber-creative students. Despite time constraints, these students raced against time and produced excellent mags. Way to go everyone! Sure, there might be glitches here and there but there's always room for improvement, no? When there's a will, there's a way ;)

The Curse : A Truly Bewitching Performance!

2011-06-23T19:46:00.004+08:00

Last Saturday, I had the chance of watching the premiere of 'The Curse...A New Beginning' at Dewan Sultan Iskandar, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM). I was there on behalf of my principal who couldn't make it to the play. She was the former principal of SMK Permas Jaya 3, the school that organised this spectacular event.

The invitation card. I was impressed with the array of top sponsors that supported the staging of this theatre. I am sure it was not an easy feat yet, they successfully pulled it off, kudos SMK Permas Jaya 3! I love the way the Curse's director, Ms. Hafeeza Sulong remarked on her students' performance, "They might be ordinary but they have extraordinary talents!" Indeed, they shone and lit up our fervent interests towards English Literature. I am sure anyone who was present during the theatre would vouch on how mesmerising the performance was.

For those who would like to read up or enhance your understanding on Lee Su Ann's The Curse, you can do so at this link. If you miss the performance last week, fret not. The team would be touring in selected venues in Johor. I will watch the theatre again next week, this time accompanying my Form 5 students. I'm not commissioned to promote this theatre but I couldn't help but to sing praises to it. Please go and watch the play if you can, it's worth it!

DATE	VENUE
18th June 2011	Dewan Sultan Iskandar, UTM Skudai
2nd July 2011	Dewan Serbaguna Johor Jaya, Johor
9th July 2011	Dewan Pekembar Pagoh, Muar, Johor
16th July 2011	Dewan Jubli Intan Jalan Genuang, Segamat
23rd July 2011	Dewan SRJK (C) Chong Hwa, Kluang
HOTLINE : 010-8259005 , 010-8259006 , 017-2885298
TIME : 8.30am - 11.30am , 2.30pm - 4.30pm , 8.30pm - 11.30pm

Allow me to share an article from The New Straits Times on 'The Curse...A New Beginning' where I gave a comment on the performance.

'The Curse' lifted by a gifted cast

2011/06/21
By Shenton Thomas De Silva

THE Parent-Teacher Association of SMK Permas Jaya 3, Pasir Gudang, recently staged The Curse, a spellbinding theatre play, at Dewan Sultan Iskandar, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) in Johor Baru. More than 3,000 students from several schools were in attendance.

The play is based on the Malaysian novel by Lee Su Ann, about a girl traumatised by the murder of her sister.

Last year, the school performed The Pearl at Dewan Serbaguna, Johor Jaya, which attracted about 2,700 students. The Pearl is based on a novel by John Steinbeck.
School principal Kamisah Aziz, said theatre and drama would encourage creativity in the students, and promote the use of English.

"The show involved students of all races, in line with the 1Malaysia concept," she said.

Kamisah said the school would continue to stage more of such performances if the response was encouraging.

The play, organised with the help of the Johor Education Department, will next be presented at Dewan Serbaguna in Johor Jaya on July 2. Show times are from 8.30am to noon, and 8pm to 11pm.

Johor Education Department academic management sector deputy head Abu Talib Abdullah, who is also the Bahasa Malaysia department principal assistant director; English department principal assistant director Shanmuganathan Suppiah, and Pasir Gudang district education office English language officer Baharuddin Ishak were among those involved in the organisation of the play.

It was produced with the help of Yayasan Warisan Johor and Akademi Seni Budaya & Warisan Kebangsaan Johor (Aswara).

Talib, who opened the play, hoped the staging of The Curse would generate more students' interest in theatre.

"This is also a step forward in efforts to improve the standard of English among students in the state," he said in his speech.

Talib said involvement in theatre would keep students away from negative activities.

Shanmuganathan, meanwhile, said the play was "educative, informative and entertaining".

"I would personally give the performance 10 out of 10," he said.

The English department principal assistant director expressed the hope that it would spur students to join or start drama or theatre clubs in their schools.

SMK Taman Tun Aminah student E. Povaneswari, 17, said the play taught her a new way to improve her English.

Her schoolmate Wong Hui Shan, 17, said she was encouraged to read more English books after watching it.

"The plot and dialogue were easy to follow," she said.

Huda Mansor, 17, from SMK Sultan Alauddin, loved the teamwork displayed by the cast.

She said the actors performed well as they managed to evoke varied responses from the audience.

"They made us cry and laugh. We were able, in a way, to join them in the story."

Johor Baru district education officer for secondary schools Ruzana Saat said the students delivered an excellent performance.

Nor Fadzleen Sa'don, who teaches at SMK Tasek Utara, Johor Baru, said the students performed beyond all expectations.

The actors rehearsed between five and eight hours a day for four months.

Production manager Munira Abdul Razak, 25, believed that the cast would have done even better if they had had more time to rehearse.

Director Hafeezah Sulong, 34, lauded the actors for their admirable achievement despite their lack of proficiency in English.

She was particularly impressed by Norsyahirah Ahmad Tarmizi, 17, who played the lead character Azreen Saleh.

Norsyahirah managed to memorise 36 pages of script in three weeks.

"She has great potential," said Hafeezah.

Source: http://www.nst.com.my/nst/articles/jpsuann2/Article

20th MELTA International Conference 2011

2011-06-18T18:44:00.006+08:00

Finally, I have the time to update this blog! I was bogged down with marking the midyear exam's scripts and attending 3 wedding receptions during the school holiday. However, I can't complain much as I had the chance to take a breather by attending the MELTA Conference in Kuala Tererengganu recently. Took a flight to KT with my significant one and I considered this as a professional development cum holiday. The venue for this year's conference is at Primula Beach Resort and I stayed at the hotel for the sake of convenience. It was my first visit to Terengganu and boy, I was blown away by the picturesque scenery, sandy beach and delectable food. Heavenly!


The conference in progress. I thought the Special Featured Session by Toh Puan Seri Wan Hibatul Hidayah Wan Ismail was brilliant. Her witty rhetoric was indeed refreshing . She intertwined her experience growing up and learning the English Language with ways she believe the subject should be taught in schools. The forum on Innovation in Global Learning was an eye-opener for me as I've learned that it is pivotal for teachers to have a stellar support system from the school admins and the parents, in order to sustain our students' learning gratification. Oh yes, the Teach For Malaysia programme is brilliant as Malaysian youths can chip in to teach students from less fortunate backgrounds. Reminded me of Projek Kalsom that was carried out by the United Kingdom and Eire Council for Malaysian Students (UKEC) when I was a student back then.

I presented a paper entitled 'The Fun Theory: Towards the Thinking ESL Classroom.' Alhamdulillah, it turned out well but indeed, there's still room for improvement. From the feedback I've received, a workshop session might be my next attempt as it would illustrate the theories presented more effectively. I think I'm the only teacher presenter who attempted paper presentation as most teacher presenters conducted workshops. It was heartening though, despite the lack of hands-on activity, a lot of participants approached me and gave positive remarks on the presentation. Honestly, I was a bit nervous in presenting ( I always feel the jitters whenever I need to talk in front of everyone) but hopefully, with more practice, I could improve my oratory skills. Thank you to those who attended my session and gave support and constructive criticisms. One can never stop learning in order to improve oneself, no?

One of the perks of attending conference is networking with like-minded teachers who are passionate about professional development. Puteri was my junior back in MPIK and she is known for her bubbly demeanour. We get along very well as we shared similar views and visions on teaching and professional development. She won the Basil Wijayasuriya Award for her workshop presentation on Dictionary Skills. Way to go Pu3! I met Ma, one of the Creative Teachers Showcase's participants who is currently teaching in Kuala Terengganu. She reminded me so much of myself when I started teaching and it's nice to motivate and share experience with the others. Saidatul is so determined to improve her teaching that she flew all the way from Sabah in order to attend this conference. Way to go!


Personally, I would encourage more teachers to attend MELTA Conference as it is a worthy investment in a long run. To me, teaching is not just about relaying information but it is about making connection. From this conference, I've discovered that teachers need to have strong support group from their colleagues as we can assist one another in improving ourselves. I've met a lot of inspiring educators that motivated me to improve my teaching skills. Datin Dr. Raja Mazuin (IPBA) was my former lecturer and she's such an inspiring woman. Dr. Normala (IIU) has been so supportive of what I do that I am compelled to do something about my professional plan in the future. Dr. Kabilan (USM) paved the way for me to have a go at academic writing for the upcoming MELTA Journal. I know that I I've only been teaching for 9 years and I still have a long way to go. Hence, I am glad that the MELTA Conference had helped me to develop my potential as an educator. Kudos to Dr. Guna and the MELTA Committee members who have made this conference a success!

I left my heart in Kuala Terengganu. Hope I can come back to Terengganu soon. Thank you for the wonderful memories :)

20th MELTA International Conference

2011-05-26T21:45:00.004+08:00

I'm heading off to Kuala Terengganu this weekend for the 20th MELTA International Conference. I've been attending this conference for the past three years and I perceive it as a lifelong investment to my professional development. This year, I'll be presenting a paper on the pedagogical approach in ESL classroom. I'll be talking on The Fun Theory and how it could be beautifully adapted in igniting creative sparks, promoting thinking skills and arousing students' interest in learning. I honestly look forward to learning and sharing new ideas with the local and international delegates. I've discovered that the conference rejuvenates my interests towards learning and rekindles my passion towards teaching. I do hope I could network with other teachers and perhaps, go shopping? Heh. Yeah, there's a lot of marking to be done for sure but I think I deserve to take a breather. Guess I need to plan my holiday carefully.

Happy holidays!

Monthly Update

2011-05-23T19:36:00.006+08:00

I was on a long hiatus as I was dealing with a lot of work-related and personal issues. Robbers broke into my house more than three weeks ago and it left a traumatic impact on my family and I. It is a painstaking task to deal with such horrendous experience especially when my husband and I were tied up by the robbers and threatened with life-death situation. However, I believe that eventually, I need to toughen up and move on with my life. Below are some of the other events that happened in the month of May.

Date : 7th May 2011
Event : Public Speaking Competition (district level)

24 schools took part in the competition, held at SMK Taman Sutera. All of the participants displayed their verbal prowess and some of the participants could really speak their minds out. I was one the judges for the semi-final and the final round of the competition. Had the chance to work with Aishah Goh (SDARY) and Mr. Abd. Rahman (SMK Nusajaya). I had a pleasant surprise when a student from SMK Taman Universiti approached me and introduced himself as a follower of this blog. It was certainly a pleasure meeting you, Faiz. All the best in your upcoming SPM!

Event : Student Leaders Board's Meeting & Recycling Project


The Student Leaders Board held their 3rd meeting to discuss on upcoming projects. The first project is the 2nd Recycling Project that will be carried out at Titiwangsa Apartment. The second project is the Speak Like A Leader Programme that will be held on weekly basis. I am proud of my students as they are attentive and keen on improving their leadership skills. The students were presented with the Johor International Student Leaders Conference's certificates of participation by Ali Asyraf Mohamed, one of the SLB's advisers.

The Recycling Project in progress. L-R: Adam Daniel, Roshini, Yi Wen (Project Manager), Jasmin and Bernard. Kudos!

Date : 14th May 2011
Event: General Meeting of Majlis Guru Cemerlang JB


The meeting was held at Maktab Sultan Abu Bakar's mini auditorium. The first session was a talk on Lesson Study, a collaborative teaching practice that is carried out widely in Japan, Indonesia and Thailand. The next agenda was the AGM meeting where new committee members were elected and I'm humbled and honoured to be elected as a committee member. Hopefully, I can learn more from the more experienced GCs especially under the leadership of the new President, Pn. Nor Rizah Bongkek (STF).

Date : 16th May 2011
Event: Teachers' Day

I had a splendid time celebrating Teachers' Day with all my beloved colleagues and students. I love the T-Day's theme for this year. I believe that as teachers, we need to constantly learn from our mistakes, be humble and upgrade ourselves to be professionally competent as each year progresses. I've learned that you need to persevere and stay optimistic despite the challenges that you may face along the way. At times, I felt so frustrated when my sincere effort in conducting action researches, presenting paper and writing was misjudged by some unfortunate souls. Why can't we support each other rather than spread unsavoury accusations? A good friend once told me that we cannot control other's actions but we can certainly control how we react towards them. I am glad that I have found solace in finding really good friends and mentors who inspire me to be a better teacher. We are the unsung heroes!

Date : 21st May 2011

Event: Innovation Day & Teachers' Day (District Level)

Alhamdulillah, I am chosen as the recipient of the Leadership Award for Secondary School Teacher Category during the Innovation Day & Teachers' Day Celebration recently. This award only fueled me to improve myself and hopefully, to ignite the teaching drive within me. The pinnacle of awesomeness is when my school won 5 awards ; Anugerah Kepimpinan PK1, Anugerah Kepimpinan PK HEM, Anugerah Kepimpinan PK Koko, Anugerah Kepimpinan Guru Penolong & Pengurusan Kokurikulum. Go Tasek!