Tabloid's executives 'knew about hacking'
Surprised? Well I was outraged.
Just a few days back, Clive Goodman, News of the World former correspondent, has sent a letter stating that the News of the World executive stuff had known about the hacking incident. So, contrary to Murdoch's statement, which states that this phone hacking was only carried out by Clive Goodman, a new controversial was sparked.
Well, after reading the article with wide-eyed 'amazement', I would really like to comment on the News of the World's stand towards this whole incident. For one, if what Clive Goodman has claimed was really true, I am really disgusted with the executive staff of News of the World. We now know that the truth that phone hacking were carried out is not only confined to Murdoch and specific individuals, but the executive staff as well. As such, I really do want to question the staff's attitude towards the phone hacking incident.
If the information about the phone hacking is only known to Murdoch, and not to the rest of the staff, and the company was caught doing so, I would place all the blame to Murdoch. But the situation we face now seems to be otherwise.
How could an entire company allow phone hacking to be carried out?
How can anybody not stand up to question the morality of doing so?
In my perspective, the fact that the staff knew about the hacking reflects on their own moral values. Just because Murdoch allows it and wants it do be done, it does not mean that the staff has to follow accordingly and blindly. Someone with high moral standards would stand up and question Murdoch's action.
This also clearly shows the moral standards and working attitude of people nowadays. Are we becoming people who would carry out instructions even if they are wrong to ensure that we have a job place for us? What exactly is happening to one's moral values in doing so? The people of our present world seem to be prioritising their pay cheques above their own morality.
I believe in the process of this whole incident, we should really take some time to reflect on ourselves. As we study in school, aiming to be top-notch people of the society in the future, are we going to be people who would value the money we earn higher than the the moral values so heavily emphasised when we were educated? Perhaps, even if it does mean going against our own morality, would we still do wrong things and try to keep it a secret, as long as it guarantees the money?
I really do wish that the youth of the world would be able to decide for themselves, of what should be done and what should not be done.
Hopefully.
Thursday, August 18, 2011
Blog Prompt #6
"The news media should be blamed for the unhealthy paparazzi culture and going to the extremes for sensational news. How far do you agree?"
I believe this was gone through in class a few days back. But anyway, I agree to a very small extent as to whether the news media should be blamed for the unhealthy paparazzi culture and going to the extremes for sensational news.Firstly, the readers play a part as well. This unhealthy paparazzi culture is not something new but has been going on, and is definitely not oblivious to the reader. But, the readers have not been speaking up in outrage about this, but rather, they have been buying this tabloid news at great numbers. So in a way, the curiosity of the reader which drives them to buy the tabloid news in turn drives the publisher to continue hunting for sensational news. As such, the readers who have been actively supporting and not taking a clear stand against this unhealthy culture acts as a form of drive for this unhealthy paparazzi culture.
Next, the law too is not doing anything against this culture. The law enforcers themselves are timidly hiding in their safety zone, by not publishing and openly criticising this culture that is already prevalent in our society. Instead, they choose to take a neutral stand, in fear of offending the publishers of these tabloid news, which may lead to them seeing themselves in headlines the following day. This lack of courage and the fact that nothing have been done to this culture allows this unhealthy culture to be carried out, without any opposition.
However, the news media themselves are to blame as well. News media is probably the most potent weapon that the people are using to spread this unhealthy paparazzi culture. Right now, news media enables news from different corners of the world to be spread in a matter of seconds. Also, this unhealthy paparazzi culture is also caused by the greed for money of the news media. As readers swarm to read about tabloid news and gossips, it is the people at the back scene who profits with the money earned from all the tabloid newspapers and magazines sold to each and every customer.
Saturday, July 30, 2011
Blog Prompt 5
By the end of the trial scene, do you think true justice and mercy was delivered? Reflect and write on the following questions.
1. Is there true justice? Why?
2. Is there true mercy, as expounded by Portia? Why?
3. Justice and Law can be manipulated by people in power. Comment on this with reference to the text and other real-life cases and examples.
1) I believe that there is really something called true justice. It is just receiving what you are suppose to receive. I feel that in the case of Merchant of Venice, the trial scene, there was no true justice. It is rather straightforward, Antonio makes a deal and fails to meet the deal that he gave his consent to, so he has to pay the price. But in the end, Shylock is tortured under the play of words Portia uses and does not get what he really deserves. The most upsetting thing is people find that this is reasonable because of Shylock's evil character displayed.
I mean, seriously, does a person's character makes him unable to receive what he deserves? If a good man fails to fulfill the deal he makes with another evil man and has to pay the price of his life, should he be spared because he is good and the other is evil? Absolutely not. It is a clear line, a mistake done is a mistake done and one shall receive his due punishment.
2) I do not think there is true mercy. Mercy is basically taking away the punishment or things that causes pain one should receive because of the things he has done. But in the case of Portia, she forces Shylock to forfeit whatever he has and lose the bond, even though she knew that this would cause Shylock sorrow.
3) Indeed, it is undeniable that justice and law can be manipulated by those with power, as seen from our present examples and reflected from the text. In the text, Portia uses her power as a fake learned scholar sent by a wise judge to twist the law against Shylock. What she exacted against Shylock is not the law, it is just a play of words. The law exists to give the people what they deserve fairly. I feel that Shylock does not deserve to be forced to change his religion, to lose his properties and to lose the meaning of his life. Instead, Antonio deserves to be killed after giving consent to the bond and Shylock deserves to receive the pound of flesh. However, the law does not exist in this case to fulfill what both of them deserves.
In our world, or shall we narrow down to Singapore, I do not think justice and law can be so easily manipulated anymore. We Singaporeans are learned, educated people and we do not forgo things such as the law. Instead, when one tries to bend the law, no matter how much authority that person has, we react with utmost displeasure and stop him. I believe that if there is a case of anybody with power abusing his authority, we would stand up against him. Thus, there is no such thing that people with power manipulate justice and the law in Singapore.
1. Is there true justice? Why?
2. Is there true mercy, as expounded by Portia? Why?
3. Justice and Law can be manipulated by people in power. Comment on this with reference to the text and other real-life cases and examples.
1) I believe that there is really something called true justice. It is just receiving what you are suppose to receive. I feel that in the case of Merchant of Venice, the trial scene, there was no true justice. It is rather straightforward, Antonio makes a deal and fails to meet the deal that he gave his consent to, so he has to pay the price. But in the end, Shylock is tortured under the play of words Portia uses and does not get what he really deserves. The most upsetting thing is people find that this is reasonable because of Shylock's evil character displayed.
I mean, seriously, does a person's character makes him unable to receive what he deserves? If a good man fails to fulfill the deal he makes with another evil man and has to pay the price of his life, should he be spared because he is good and the other is evil? Absolutely not. It is a clear line, a mistake done is a mistake done and one shall receive his due punishment.
2) I do not think there is true mercy. Mercy is basically taking away the punishment or things that causes pain one should receive because of the things he has done. But in the case of Portia, she forces Shylock to forfeit whatever he has and lose the bond, even though she knew that this would cause Shylock sorrow.
3) Indeed, it is undeniable that justice and law can be manipulated by those with power, as seen from our present examples and reflected from the text. In the text, Portia uses her power as a fake learned scholar sent by a wise judge to twist the law against Shylock. What she exacted against Shylock is not the law, it is just a play of words. The law exists to give the people what they deserve fairly. I feel that Shylock does not deserve to be forced to change his religion, to lose his properties and to lose the meaning of his life. Instead, Antonio deserves to be killed after giving consent to the bond and Shylock deserves to receive the pound of flesh. However, the law does not exist in this case to fulfill what both of them deserves.
In our world, or shall we narrow down to Singapore, I do not think justice and law can be so easily manipulated anymore. We Singaporeans are learned, educated people and we do not forgo things such as the law. Instead, when one tries to bend the law, no matter how much authority that person has, we react with utmost displeasure and stop him. I believe that if there is a case of anybody with power abusing his authority, we would stand up against him. Thus, there is no such thing that people with power manipulate justice and the law in Singapore.
Thursday, July 21, 2011
Blog Prompt (4)
1) To what extent do you agree with the issues that the student has raised here? Point out some issues of agreement and possible contention.
To be honest, before I read this article, I have been thinking and pondering about this topic for a really long time. And I really do feel the same way as Janelle.
"Maybe I don’t know exactly what type of education system I want, but I know one thing: I want a system where I’m not a product on a factory line, but a real human with an inquisitive mind, always taught to ask and wonder. Memorizing is indeed the fastest way out. Fastest way to good grades, the fastest way out of poverty, the fastest way to a good job and a good salary and a good life. The fastest way to a First World Country. But is it really the best way to educate?"
This was the sentence which I always wanted to express from the bottom of my heart but did not know how to put it in the right way.
Are we all products of this factory line Singapore has created? Personally, ever since Secondary 2 started, I have been rushing assignments, doing work all the time and stuff like that. But it has come to a point a few months back when I asked myself, what exactly am I rushing for? Unsurprisingly, I could not answer myself and I find it rather saddening. For all my life I have been rushing so much and yet I am unsure of why I am doing this for and just for a moment, it all seems so meaningless. I am just caught in this Singaporean life, where everyone rushes to get a good grade, a good job and undeniably, a good life. Janelle has put my point across in an excellent way.
For all the things we are rushing for, are we really being educated?
As mentioned in his letter as well, when we are met with problems, is our only solution regurgitating facts? Or are we really able to solve the problem with practical manners?
Ever since I pondered over this topic, I have come to realise that school really only teaches us how to get an A1. The true essence of education is being disregarded, students mindset of education are horribly distorted in my opinion. It really seems to me that students no longer learn for the sake of learning anymore, instead, they learn to score A1 instead.
And pardon me, but I am truly disgusted.
Isn't education suppose to be learning things purely because we yearn to gain knowledge? Learning things that we love and want to know more about? Where exactly is the innocence and the sincerity to just seek for knowledge purely without any intentions?
Everyday I see people raising their hands to ask questions, but what really just make me frustrated is they raise their hands not with the main intention of clarifying doubts, but with the intention of scoring Oral Participation points. Well, I cant deny that there are people who really want to clarify their doubts, but the main bulk of my class seems only to be concerned with the OP points. As such, repetitive questions are ask by students, with them hoping to get extra points.
However, despite saying so, I cant agree entirely with her. Indeed, this problem we face right now is caused by the government, but I feel that it is not entirely the government's responsibility to change this. This is also caused by our people themselves, the intent to strive for a comfortable life, the pleasures of life, has changed us, entirely. I believe in order to change this situation, everyone, and I really mean everyone must have the will to change. The change of the government is simply not enough. Every person counts, and when everyone have the same determination, that is when change really begin.
2) Examine her tone and attitude in this letter. Do you think it’s a well-crafted letter with the appropriate tone?
Although I agree with this letter to a large extent, I feel that the tone and attitude of this letter could be taken note of. I believe terms like "Sir" and "Please" should be used when appropriate, however, this letter does not exactly take note of the mannerism involved in writing a letter to a minister. Instead, terms like "Minister", instead of "Sir" are used to address the education minister himself and it inevitably suggests a little rudeness on his part.
However, she does take note of thanking the minster for reading her letter and does not use any rude terms which suggest anything wrong.
3) If you should write a letter to Minister of Education, what are some issues you would raise? Remember- your intention is to make the system better for society’s betterment via CONSTRUCTIVE ideas.
As mentioned above in the first question, it really seems to me that school no longer teach the students to gain knowledge sincerely, but rather, school teaches us how to score A1 instead. Isn't education suppose to be learning things purely because we yearn to gain knowledge? Learning things that we love and want to know more about? Where exactly is the innocence and the sincerity to just seek for knowledge purely without any intentions?
This is basically the main issues I am concerned with because all the other issues mainly arise from this mentality students have.
To be honest, before I read this article, I have been thinking and pondering about this topic for a really long time. And I really do feel the same way as Janelle.
"Maybe I don’t know exactly what type of education system I want, but I know one thing: I want a system where I’m not a product on a factory line, but a real human with an inquisitive mind, always taught to ask and wonder. Memorizing is indeed the fastest way out. Fastest way to good grades, the fastest way out of poverty, the fastest way to a good job and a good salary and a good life. The fastest way to a First World Country. But is it really the best way to educate?"
This was the sentence which I always wanted to express from the bottom of my heart but did not know how to put it in the right way.
Are we all products of this factory line Singapore has created? Personally, ever since Secondary 2 started, I have been rushing assignments, doing work all the time and stuff like that. But it has come to a point a few months back when I asked myself, what exactly am I rushing for? Unsurprisingly, I could not answer myself and I find it rather saddening. For all my life I have been rushing so much and yet I am unsure of why I am doing this for and just for a moment, it all seems so meaningless. I am just caught in this Singaporean life, where everyone rushes to get a good grade, a good job and undeniably, a good life. Janelle has put my point across in an excellent way.
For all the things we are rushing for, are we really being educated?
As mentioned in his letter as well, when we are met with problems, is our only solution regurgitating facts? Or are we really able to solve the problem with practical manners?
Ever since I pondered over this topic, I have come to realise that school really only teaches us how to get an A1. The true essence of education is being disregarded, students mindset of education are horribly distorted in my opinion. It really seems to me that students no longer learn for the sake of learning anymore, instead, they learn to score A1 instead.
And pardon me, but I am truly disgusted.
Isn't education suppose to be learning things purely because we yearn to gain knowledge? Learning things that we love and want to know more about? Where exactly is the innocence and the sincerity to just seek for knowledge purely without any intentions?
Everyday I see people raising their hands to ask questions, but what really just make me frustrated is they raise their hands not with the main intention of clarifying doubts, but with the intention of scoring Oral Participation points. Well, I cant deny that there are people who really want to clarify their doubts, but the main bulk of my class seems only to be concerned with the OP points. As such, repetitive questions are ask by students, with them hoping to get extra points.
However, despite saying so, I cant agree entirely with her. Indeed, this problem we face right now is caused by the government, but I feel that it is not entirely the government's responsibility to change this. This is also caused by our people themselves, the intent to strive for a comfortable life, the pleasures of life, has changed us, entirely. I believe in order to change this situation, everyone, and I really mean everyone must have the will to change. The change of the government is simply not enough. Every person counts, and when everyone have the same determination, that is when change really begin.
2) Examine her tone and attitude in this letter. Do you think it’s a well-crafted letter with the appropriate tone?
Although I agree with this letter to a large extent, I feel that the tone and attitude of this letter could be taken note of. I believe terms like "Sir" and "Please" should be used when appropriate, however, this letter does not exactly take note of the mannerism involved in writing a letter to a minister. Instead, terms like "Minister", instead of "Sir" are used to address the education minister himself and it inevitably suggests a little rudeness on his part.
However, she does take note of thanking the minster for reading her letter and does not use any rude terms which suggest anything wrong.
3) If you should write a letter to Minister of Education, what are some issues you would raise? Remember- your intention is to make the system better for society’s betterment via CONSTRUCTIVE ideas.
As mentioned above in the first question, it really seems to me that school no longer teach the students to gain knowledge sincerely, but rather, school teaches us how to score A1 instead. Isn't education suppose to be learning things purely because we yearn to gain knowledge? Learning things that we love and want to know more about? Where exactly is the innocence and the sincerity to just seek for knowledge purely without any intentions?
This is basically the main issues I am concerned with because all the other issues mainly arise from this mentality students have.
Thursday, July 14, 2011
Blog Prompt (3)
In your opinion, is money important in a relationship? Consider the 'transactional' element observed in the relationships between the couples. Do you think there is an upward trend of relationships and marriages valuing money over other qualities? Provide examples for your responses.
I believe this question really depends on one perspective. In my opinion, when I look for a partner, I do not put money as a main priority but I cannot deny that without money, a relationship has a high change of not working out. For me, in order for me to let a relationship work out, I do need the basic amount of money to sustain the basic needs of life.
I feel that there is no upward trend of relationships and marriages valuing money over other qualities. For a relationship to work out, it is essential not to cross either borders and end up valuing one side over the other. Prevalent in our society, teen relationships hold love above anything else, otherwise known as infatuation. There is no denying that there are teen couples having relationships even without having the substantial amount of money needed to sustain the relationship well. Pertinent to that, it is a fact that as a marriage grows older, couples do tend to value money over love and other qualities mainly because the initial infatuation has faded away and inevitably, reality comes crashing in.
Tuesday, July 5, 2011
Blog Prompt (2)
In your opinion, how has war evolved from the past to the present? Please use examples to justify your opinions.
In my opinion, war has changed progressively from the past to the present, in accordance to the leaps and bounds made by technology itself. As the world heads towards a technology based society, the use of society is much more prevalent in our present society. As man hungers to make things to provide convenience for themselves, technology is developed to meet the seemingly insatiable appetite of man. On the other side of things, when man have conflicts with one another, technology is used in the wrong way - to combat one another. No matter how sharp a sword is, its ability is entirely dependent on the way its wielder decides to use it, just like how human have used technology for warfare, leading to the evolvement of war from the past to the present.
Adapting from the article, "This time its different", technology has allowed information, be it good or bad, to be spread across the country, across the world, into all our ears. When this happens, warfare becomes increasingly intense. With external sources with different information coming from all directions, the people are easily influenced. An excellent example would be the case of the Middle East war happening right now. The situation that was initially regarded as a minor conflict within Tunisia led to many different Middle East countries rebelling as well. Why? Because technology made it all possible. Social networks transmit information faster than anyone can imagine a few decades ago and certainly, war rises faster than we can imagine.
But we should not neglect the fact that the nature of war remains unchanged, and shall remain unchanged till the end of time. War starts because of hatred, and yet, it breed hatred itself. It is a never ending cycle, where hatred cause war and the hatred caused by war starts another war. The idea of a world free of wars is indeed superficial and unreachable to us right now, but let us work towards that target, no matter how long it takes, no matter how arduous the road is, lets hold on till the end, with hands held together.
But we should not neglect the fact that the nature of war remains unchanged, and shall remain unchanged till the end of time. War starts because of hatred, and yet, it breed hatred itself. It is a never ending cycle, where hatred cause war and the hatred caused by war starts another war. The idea of a world free of wars is indeed superficial and unreachable to us right now, but let us work towards that target, no matter how long it takes, no matter how arduous the road is, lets hold on till the end, with hands held together.
Sunday, July 3, 2011
Book Review (2)
This book review will be on the book "To Sir With Love", a beautiful classic I found from my cousin's long forgotten book shelve, written by E.R Braithwaite and decorated by his superb illustration of his life.
The book basically talks about Rick Braithwaite, from South America, going to the eastern part of London to find a job. Initially, he witnesses the racial prejudice that is evidently present in his life and the situations he faces and the fact that he is unable to find a job. He then lands himself being a teacher. But never did he expect that his group of students he would be teaching were rebellious students who were regarded as "bad" students by many. However, he manages to make a change in these students, by his special way of treating them. Unlike others, he treats the students as mature adults and talk to them in a matured manner, with the hope of them treating him the same way. In the end, he did received the due respect a teacher should receive from his students just because his respect towards the students was reciprocated. These students who never did respect their teachers and adults in this case, were changed thoroughly.
Although Rick, because of racism issues, was thrown with unpleasant comments by other teachers, he never did retaliate and placed the students as the highest priority. He made sure that his class would not be affected by this.
This book has earned by utmost admiration just because the fact that Rick has gone through so much, tolerated hardships, faced adveristy, all to change the students has touched my heart deeply and the students, who were thought as hopeless, were changed because of this undying determination of their teacher.
It has reminded me of how important my teachers are to me and I would appreciate if those who have not read this book take this book and start reading it.
The book basically talks about Rick Braithwaite, from South America, going to the eastern part of London to find a job. Initially, he witnesses the racial prejudice that is evidently present in his life and the situations he faces and the fact that he is unable to find a job. He then lands himself being a teacher. But never did he expect that his group of students he would be teaching were rebellious students who were regarded as "bad" students by many. However, he manages to make a change in these students, by his special way of treating them. Unlike others, he treats the students as mature adults and talk to them in a matured manner, with the hope of them treating him the same way. In the end, he did received the due respect a teacher should receive from his students just because his respect towards the students was reciprocated. These students who never did respect their teachers and adults in this case, were changed thoroughly.
Although Rick, because of racism issues, was thrown with unpleasant comments by other teachers, he never did retaliate and placed the students as the highest priority. He made sure that his class would not be affected by this.
This book has earned by utmost admiration just because the fact that Rick has gone through so much, tolerated hardships, faced adveristy, all to change the students has touched my heart deeply and the students, who were thought as hopeless, were changed because of this undying determination of their teacher.
It has reminded me of how important my teachers are to me and I would appreciate if those who have not read this book take this book and start reading it.
Monday, June 27, 2011
Blog Prompt (1)
1) Why do you think National Service is important to Singapore?
We are a small-populated country and it is important to build up our own defence. Also, we are unable to afford to maintain a large-standing army, instead, we have to utilise our own working population in times of need. In order for us to do so, we need National Service to train them to ensure that we are able to mobilise them in any case of danger.
2) In the above poem, the speaker expresses his love for his country England. Do you have the same spirit for patriotism towards Singapore? Why?
Yes, I have the same spirit for patriotism. Singapore has shaped me to who and what I am right now. Also, I do not treat this as an obligation, but rather, a choice I want to make in defending the land I was raised in.
3) Do you consider yourself a patriot to your country?
Honestly speaking, I do not really consider myself a patriot to Singapore yet. Most probably, I hope to become a patriot though, but I do not really see myself walking down the path of being a patriot to my country. The main reason to this is because the feeling of closeness and attachment of myself to my country is not forged yet. Maybe, just maybe, entering the National Service would create this bond between the country and myself and by then, I would become a patriot to Singapore.
3) Do you consider yourself a patriot to your country?
Honestly speaking, I do not really consider myself a patriot to Singapore yet. Most probably, I hope to become a patriot though, but I do not really see myself walking down the path of being a patriot to my country. The main reason to this is because the feeling of closeness and attachment of myself to my country is not forged yet. Maybe, just maybe, entering the National Service would create this bond between the country and myself and by then, I would become a patriot to Singapore.
Monday, June 13, 2011
Book Review
Heroes of Olympus : The Lost Hero
This book is actually a continuation from another series called Percy Jackson. I myself is a huge fan of the Percy Jackson series and of course I would not miss out on this book. The reason I like this book so much is that it embarks on the adventure of young heroes and there is so much suspension as the story progresses. Greek gods are introduced from time to time, changing the situation again and again, and the impossible always seems to happen. This is exactly why it is so interesting.
The whole strory actually revolves around three characters, Jason, Piper and Leo. Jason is a hero who has lost his memory and appeared out of nowhere with his friends, Piper and Leo. As the story progresses, he discovers his identity as the son of Zeus. They are all up against a Gaia, the mother of all gods, and the mother of giants too. Gaia is rising from her slumber and planning to lead the giants to fight against the gods, to overthrow them and to destroy them forever. The giants are also rising, their powers as strong as the gods, and they are using Hera's power to rise, after they tricked her and captured her. Jason, Piper and Leo must save Hera to prevent the uprise of the giants.
The story begins with the sudden disappearance of Percy Jackson, the hero of the titan-war. Jason, Leo and Piper then heads off on a quest to stop the giants after they heard the prophecy,
Seven half-bloods shall answer the call,
To storm or fire the world must fall.
An oath to keep with a final breath
And foes bear arms to the Doors of Death.
The three meet many monsters who were rebirthed due to the uprising of Gaia, such as Medea, and the three of them discovers their power as the adventure goes on. Piper is the daughter of Aphrodite and is one of the special children who has the power of charmspeak, which allows her to convince anyone very easily. Leo is the son of Hephaestus, and is also one of the special children with fire abilities. Finally, the first great challenge they face is a giant on the top of the mountain. As the adventure progresses, Piper has to make a decision, to betray her friends and save her father, or to help her friends and to lose her father. However, after Jason and Leo learnt about it, they decided to do both, save the world and save Piper's father. The battle on the top of the mountain would decide the fate of Piper's father, and fortunately, Jason managed to defeat the giant single-handedly.
Then, Jason must head on to save Hera, and before Hera could be fully saved, the great giant rose from the ground and Jason must face him bare-handed without his sword after he lost it at the battle of Mount Othrys. Just at the point when Jason is about to lose, Hera is released from her cage and the giant escapes as its powers are still not fully developed and is unable to fight Hera. The whole adventure ends at this point and at the end of the book, the three meet up with the others at Camp Half-Blood and finally realises that there are two camps, the Greek camp and the Roman camp. Jason is actually an exchange who was originally from the Roman camp which Hera brought to the Greek camp to unite the two camps together. Soon, they realise that Hera has brought Percy, the hero of the Greek camp, to the Roman camp to unite the two camps together too. The story then ends like this, with the prophecy unfinished and the three realising that their next destination is Greece, where they would face the giants as the giants try to destroy the origin of the gods.
My favourite character in this book is Leo. Although he is not the main character of the book, he is portrayed as a essential character to help fulfil the prophecy and his positive and humerous attitude really captures my attention. His fire powers are also something which I have been dreaming to have since young and I really enjoy the way the book describes his fire powers and the way he uses them.
I am really awaiting the next book of this series, which is Heroes of Olympus : The Son of Neptune. I sincerely hope all of you would try to read up on this book, and I shall not say anymore and let the book do the fascination itself.
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
Home Based Learning Assignment
Based on your understanding of the selected poem, perform extensive web research and write a report on your blog detailing the conflict represented in the poem(s) of your choice. Bear in mind that this piece of background information will allow your blog audience to further understand the poem as well as your analysis of the poem in Task 2.
Answer:
Steve Carlsen is an American soldier who experienced war in Afghanistan. We can see this from the "Hindu Kush" used in the poem. In 2001, American was having strong and opinionated views of retaliating against Afghanistan after the 9/11 incident and this led to military combat between the two nations in the year 2001 and 2002. Steve Carlsen was called out to the battlefield.
The main message of this poem is that war taints and scars your heart such that it can never be removed even after the war has ended. One would not understand how it would feel like to be in a war, seeing your very comrades die before your eyes.
War also throws you into a situation where you are forced to kill other to survive. It is a choice of whether to kill others and survive, or not to kill and die instead. This can be evidently seen from "The only reason I survived that day was divine, I kept pulling the trigger and reloading and pulling some more". Also from "I spent my time in hell", we can say that Carlsen was forced to kill all his enemies with his bare hands and that was a torture to him, leading him to be scarred by the war forever. The brutality of war is something that distorts one's mind, one that has experienced it and this distortion remains unchanged for the rest of that person's life.
Complete the template provided below (Annex A), focusing on (1) Point of View; (2) Situation and Setting; (3) Language/Diction; and (4) Personal Response, and post your response to Task 2 on your blog.
Point of View :
The voice is extremely dramatised in the poem, except the part when it starts to fade as it reaches the end of the poem. The poem progresses at a rather fast pace, changing locations only after a few lines. This is probably done as the war he is experiencing is also rather fast, seen from "30 seconds they yelled, Lock N Load and grab your shit". This effect may also be created from the fact that Steve is a soldier who has never experienced war before and things are progressing too fast for him to be able to comprehend. Perhaps, only his body is reacting to the precarious situation at war but his mind is left in a daze, completely stunned by the utmost brutality of the war he sees right in front of him. 'Where we would land we had not a clue" tells us that he is himself does not know what will he be facing.
Situation and Setting :
The climax of this poem is produced from a build up of events. Initially, Steve was in a plane, unsure of where he was going, thus creating a slight tinge of suspense. Then, "30 seconds they yelled, Lock N Load and grab your shit" plunges the reader into a fast paced situation where is suddenly thrown into a daze by the turn of events. The climax is then emphasised by the strong use of imagery, "I kept pulling the trigger", "from valley to mountain peaks, " From house to cave, to car to creek". All these expresses the sheer intensity of the battle Steve was facing, such that they had to fight from places to places and the apprehension wanted to be emphasised in the climax is achieved here. There are two conflicts in this poem, the conflict between the two nations and the psychological conflict within Steve's mind. The conflict between the two nations will be resolved when the two nations make peace with each other, however, the conflict within Steve's mind will never be erased no matter how hard he tries and this is one of the message Steve is trying to bring across. War will always resolved after a period of time, but the impacts of war are everlasting and will remain as it is no matter how long time passes and Steve is able to express this well, from "I spent my time in hell".
Language/Diction :
We can see that the language used in this poem are very extreme, such as "terror I can't define", "Who knew hell was so close to God", "Washed in the blood, and baptised by fire." These terms are use to express the extreme fear one faces in war. "Washed in blood" tells us that one's entire being is immersed in the extreme killing and brutality of war and baptised by fire tells us that one's soul is immersed is forever tainted by the killing he sees, just like the meaning of baptism, which means that one's soul is eternally cleansed.
Personal Response
I feel that as I read this poem, no matter how hard I try to comprehend the situation Steve is trying to express through his poem, I am unable to fully understand for myself how war is actually like. I believe that Steve is trying to bring across this message too, that one would never ever understand how desperate, brutal a war can be unless he himself experience it himself and he is also trying to say that one should never want to experience it because it scars our entire being for the rest of our lives.
Answer:
Steve Carlsen is an American soldier who experienced war in Afghanistan. We can see this from the "Hindu Kush" used in the poem. In 2001, American was having strong and opinionated views of retaliating against Afghanistan after the 9/11 incident and this led to military combat between the two nations in the year 2001 and 2002. Steve Carlsen was called out to the battlefield.
The main message of this poem is that war taints and scars your heart such that it can never be removed even after the war has ended. One would not understand how it would feel like to be in a war, seeing your very comrades die before your eyes.
War also throws you into a situation where you are forced to kill other to survive. It is a choice of whether to kill others and survive, or not to kill and die instead. This can be evidently seen from "The only reason I survived that day was divine, I kept pulling the trigger and reloading and pulling some more". Also from "I spent my time in hell", we can say that Carlsen was forced to kill all his enemies with his bare hands and that was a torture to him, leading him to be scarred by the war forever. The brutality of war is something that distorts one's mind, one that has experienced it and this distortion remains unchanged for the rest of that person's life.
Complete the template provided below (Annex A), focusing on (1) Point of View; (2) Situation and Setting; (3) Language/Diction; and (4) Personal Response, and post your response to Task 2 on your blog.
Point of View :
The voice is extremely dramatised in the poem, except the part when it starts to fade as it reaches the end of the poem. The poem progresses at a rather fast pace, changing locations only after a few lines. This is probably done as the war he is experiencing is also rather fast, seen from "30 seconds they yelled, Lock N Load and grab your shit". This effect may also be created from the fact that Steve is a soldier who has never experienced war before and things are progressing too fast for him to be able to comprehend. Perhaps, only his body is reacting to the precarious situation at war but his mind is left in a daze, completely stunned by the utmost brutality of the war he sees right in front of him. 'Where we would land we had not a clue" tells us that he is himself does not know what will he be facing.
Situation and Setting :
The climax of this poem is produced from a build up of events. Initially, Steve was in a plane, unsure of where he was going, thus creating a slight tinge of suspense. Then, "30 seconds they yelled, Lock N Load and grab your shit" plunges the reader into a fast paced situation where is suddenly thrown into a daze by the turn of events. The climax is then emphasised by the strong use of imagery, "I kept pulling the trigger", "from valley to mountain peaks, " From house to cave, to car to creek". All these expresses the sheer intensity of the battle Steve was facing, such that they had to fight from places to places and the apprehension wanted to be emphasised in the climax is achieved here. There are two conflicts in this poem, the conflict between the two nations and the psychological conflict within Steve's mind. The conflict between the two nations will be resolved when the two nations make peace with each other, however, the conflict within Steve's mind will never be erased no matter how hard he tries and this is one of the message Steve is trying to bring across. War will always resolved after a period of time, but the impacts of war are everlasting and will remain as it is no matter how long time passes and Steve is able to express this well, from "I spent my time in hell".
Language/Diction :
We can see that the language used in this poem are very extreme, such as "terror I can't define", "Who knew hell was so close to God", "Washed in the blood, and baptised by fire." These terms are use to express the extreme fear one faces in war. "Washed in blood" tells us that one's entire being is immersed in the extreme killing and brutality of war and baptised by fire tells us that one's soul is immersed is forever tainted by the killing he sees, just like the meaning of baptism, which means that one's soul is eternally cleansed.
Personal Response
I feel that as I read this poem, no matter how hard I try to comprehend the situation Steve is trying to express through his poem, I am unable to fully understand for myself how war is actually like. I believe that Steve is trying to bring across this message too, that one would never ever understand how desperate, brutal a war can be unless he himself experience it himself and he is also trying to say that one should never want to experience it because it scars our entire being for the rest of our lives.
Tuesday, May 10, 2011
War - Living Hell
On the coast of Omaha, tension was building up. Never once it had been so immense, so strong, to the extent that I was suffocating. The boat moved on the gentle waves. Everything seemed so unbelievable. I was at home just a day ago, without a single tinge of fear, enjoying myself as always, then I was pulled into the army. Now, I find myself facing the battlefield, surrounded with those suffering the same fate as me.
The death call was made. The higher-ups ordered the barricade to be pulled down, and that meant that we were going up on the battlefield in no time. As the barricade were pulled up, the bullets came flying in without anticipation. Our frontline was shot down, in an instance. I was petrified. It was probably the first time I saw so many people killed in a single instance. This scene clinged on to my memory for a long amount of time, repeating itself without invitation every single now and then.
The death call was made. The higher-ups ordered the barricade to be pulled down, and that meant that we were going up on the battlefield in no time. As the barricade were pulled up, the bullets came flying in without anticipation. Our frontline was shot down, in an instance. I was petrified. It was probably the first time I saw so many people killed in a single instance. This scene clinged on to my memory for a long amount of time, repeating itself without invitation every single now and then.
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
Descriptive Assignment
The sky was an overcast. The sunlight that once shone on the streets of Vietnam were being drowned by the dark clouds slowly but certainly. It seemed that the hope of the people were drowned as well. The aftermath of a deadly war was horrid, every drop of blood brought back painful memories formed during the war, and there was blood almost everywhere. Regardless of which body part, everybody, the young, the aged and most significantly, the soldiers, were wrapped in bandages such that it seemed that Vietnam was a bandage-producing country.The emotions of the people were obvious. They have lost the war, but more importantly, they have lost their family. The pain they faced could be evidently reflected on their faces. Just as one looked at the pond where once overflowed with happiness, one could only see the sorrow clearly reflected by the water, who witnessed the whole turn of events.
Heading towards the center point of the war, people were spread around the whole area. Doctors, nurses and even the people who had the ability to offer help were moving as fast as they could. But they were outnumbered, not by the enemies, but by the injured soldiers. At every single corner of the city, there would be a soldier groaning in pain. They have fought for the country, but now, not everyone could fight for their own lives anymore. The doctors tried as hard as they could, so did they, but it all seemed that it was effortless. Many have lost their lives, their family, many have suffered in pain, in sorrow, but let their spirits hold on to the end, for the soldiers have fought not to see a degrading Vietnam, but a Vietnam hopeful of surviving the war.
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
An informal letter to Japan
456 WizardLand Drive
Avenue 5
#11-987
Singapore 550923
30/03/11
Dear Mr Jones,
I guess when you are reading this, you must have already been Fukuoka. I have read about your unfortunate situation in Japan and your constant worries about the disaster. In accordance to that, I am writing this letter to help ease your worries and to encourage you to push on amidst this disaster.
I understand that as a survivor of this disaster and seeing the whole incident unfold right in front of your eyes, it is extremely difficult to control your emotions and not worry about it, thus making a decision to move to a safer part of Japan. With the fact that a similar incident can happen anytime coupled with the fears of a nuclear breakdown, I thoroughly understand your emotions, as expressed in your article.
I sincerely wish that you can press on though faced with the constant worry and the increasing pressure to take care of your family. Just think about those who are directly affected by the disaster, they, unlike you, have suffered much more but have endured much more too. I hope that a survivor like you can learn to treasure what is given to you and learn to be thankful. I just hope that you will learn to make use of the life given to you to continue persevering amidst the mess. Even if it is not for yourself, I hope you can spare a thought for your family too. You do have a responsibility to protect them.
After all, I believe that you are able to do so. You have experienced so much and it would be a waste if you give up now. Do not give up! Life will definitely be back on track, as long as you make an effort. Remember, it is the tough things that make a person tough. After this series of events, I believe you will emerge as a stronger person, courageously going ahead with life, with a wide smile on your face.
Oh yes, a piece of good news for you! My school is collecting funds for the people of Japan who are experiencing hardship in their lives. I am sure that this funds will serve as a great help to you. Is there anyway I can send it directly to you? I sincerely hope that our efforts will help you in your struggle to persevere.
May you stay strong!
Regards,
Jack Tan
Singaporean student who is constantly praying for you
Avenue 5
#11-987
Singapore 550923
30/03/11
Dear Mr Jones,
I guess when you are reading this, you must have already been Fukuoka. I have read about your unfortunate situation in Japan and your constant worries about the disaster. In accordance to that, I am writing this letter to help ease your worries and to encourage you to push on amidst this disaster.
I understand that as a survivor of this disaster and seeing the whole incident unfold right in front of your eyes, it is extremely difficult to control your emotions and not worry about it, thus making a decision to move to a safer part of Japan. With the fact that a similar incident can happen anytime coupled with the fears of a nuclear breakdown, I thoroughly understand your emotions, as expressed in your article.
I sincerely wish that you can press on though faced with the constant worry and the increasing pressure to take care of your family. Just think about those who are directly affected by the disaster, they, unlike you, have suffered much more but have endured much more too. I hope that a survivor like you can learn to treasure what is given to you and learn to be thankful. I just hope that you will learn to make use of the life given to you to continue persevering amidst the mess. Even if it is not for yourself, I hope you can spare a thought for your family too. You do have a responsibility to protect them.
After all, I believe that you are able to do so. You have experienced so much and it would be a waste if you give up now. Do not give up! Life will definitely be back on track, as long as you make an effort. Remember, it is the tough things that make a person tough. After this series of events, I believe you will emerge as a stronger person, courageously going ahead with life, with a wide smile on your face.
Oh yes, a piece of good news for you! My school is collecting funds for the people of Japan who are experiencing hardship in their lives. I am sure that this funds will serve as a great help to you. Is there anyway I can send it directly to you? I sincerely hope that our efforts will help you in your struggle to persevere.
May you stay strong!
Regards,
Jack Tan
Singaporean student who is constantly praying for you
Sunday, February 27, 2011
Setting Assignment
Right now, just staring at the second hand ticking its way down was an emotional torture. It grew more immense. I was staring straight at the timetable. Right! I still got recess time. This successfully eased the never-ending troubles in my heart, but my heart longed for an affirmation, one which could solve everything.What if...
Hello guys! So, this is my assignment for the week! Can you all guess what exactly am I going to write about this picture? Please post your answers accordingly in the comment box! I will reveal my original plot once everyone in my group has commented! So, for now, wait eagerly!
Saturday, February 12, 2011
Telephone Conversation (Sorry for the late post)
1) This poem is full of colours not just that of skin, what do you think these colours signify?
The colours in this poem include black, white and red.
The first two is crudely used by the landlord to ask whether the person she was talking to was African. The final insult came when the landlord asked the African how darks she was. These two colours were also mentioned to show the contrast between the skin tone of the two, which plays a big part in the remarks made by the landlord.
The red colour mentioned in "Red booth", "Red pillar-box"and "Red double tiered" is probably words the African woman spurted out out of shock as her fears and assumption of the discrimination against the black were affirmed by the question asked by the landlord. Perhaps the colour red also signifies the anger of the African woman as she hears what the landlord has said.
2)What does the dialogue in this poem reveal about these two characters?
It strongly brings about the awareness of the reader that the landlord is an extremely racist and shallow person. This can be evidently found in the passage as her tone was rude and crude to the African, "HOW DARK... ARE YOU LIGHT OR VERY DARK?" This cynical question she asks, wanting to know the how black the African lady is, angered her. The African woman is a person who is not afraid to reveal her true identity as an African as seen from the fact that she tells the landlord that she is an African right at the very start. But we can also infer that she is someone who is angered by cynical racist comments, as she starts a "word war" with the landlord and ends it with an insult right smack at the landlord's face.
3) The poet dramatises a battle, who wins finally and why?
In the end, the African woman won the battle, or you can say, word battle. Initially, she was overcame by shock with the rude question asked by the landlord. But as the argument progresses, it begins to lean towards the African women side as she answers the question in a sarcastic way, saying that the colours of the different part of the body are all different, implying that the question is ridiculous. Finally, she ends crudely by asking whether the landlord would want to see the colour of her bottom herself.
Thursday, February 10, 2011
Short Story!
Identity
The identity of one is defined as one’s personal character as a whole. It always seemed to me that one’s identity is heavily dependent on the group of friends he is in, but it suddenly came upon me at the age of 14, when it finally seemed otherwise.
“Hey, you there!” an unfamiliar voice echoed into my ears, I turned around instantaneously, just to see a group of four staring straight at me. “The name’s Joshua.” the tallest of the four spoke up and it all started from that very point of time. I am a 14 year old, been through most things ranging from the struggle to enter the prestigious school I am in now to making my name in school. My reputation rose to the high heavens in school, or should I say, stank to the high heavens a year back ago.
Just one year before, I entered this school of mine. Everything seemed so perfect, the facilities, the people, my classmates and my teachers, until my first term test of the year. I sought hard for materials to study, for information to work with, with the sole aim of achieving an A1. But when I achieved what I worked so hard for, it just seems that what I get was a paper with an “A1” and an endless stream of nonsensical comments I could not make up of. The minute I received my paper was the minute my world turned upside down. My “amiable” classmates turned upon me, expressing their utmost jealousy with never-ending chattering which I graciously took into my stride, but the most unforgettable thing was that I was never given a chance to be a friend to them again until I met “them”.
At that time, it all seemed that it was Joshua who pulled me back into this world, who allowed me to try to live my life out in this competitive environment I would be stuck in for the rest of my six years in school. It was apparent that I could no longer do it myself, to work as hard as I can to achieve results and at the same time maintain relationships with my classmates. The only light out of this tunnel for me was to turn to Joshua, who provided me a “clique”, who gave me shelter from hurtful comments.
Our fame hit star-high almost instantly, as soon as we came together as a group. Moving together as one, eating together during recess, I soon found myself immersed in “close” relationships with my friends. It did not take long for me to realize Joshua’s character; a courageous boy, never afraid to express his own views. I find myself laughing among them during the first week, but as the second started, something felt amiss.
The second week started with a tremendous bang, news of it shooting out from all directions, spreading straight into our eardrums and making everyone give out all types of reactions. From giggling to chagrin, I saw many rushing in excitement to confirm the headline news, but I felt wrong. The truth eventually unveiled itself from the lies of many, Joshua initiated a bully, and his gang was responsible for it. The timid mouse of our class was hopelessly pushed around like a rag doll for blocking Joshua’s way to the canteen, a small action like that caused her to lose a tooth. I was present at the scene, but took no part in it, as I watched helplessly from the corner, my heart started to bleed unknowingly.
“Come on Jack! Join us! You are one of us!” That was the statement which impacted my mind heavily. My mind was in a whirl, the turbulence caused by this incident stirred my mind helplessly. I desperately sought for an answer to this but to no avail. As I lay on my bed in growing confusion that night, my mind seemed to be confined by a seemingly endless string of thoughts, “One of us… One of us… Am I really one of them?”
I could not answer it myself.
What seemed fun to Joshua and my “friends” seemed utterly despicable to me, what seemed right to them seemed wrong to me, it just seems like the way they act and respond to things was the complete opposite of what I would do. Yet, I would still do it, just like last week, when they laughed at Jim having no friends; I overcame my hesitation and mocked him along with them too. My identity seemed to be their identity too in the past week. It never seemed wrong to me till today. My thoughts yearned for a confirmation, and fortunately, it came in no longer than a day.
The next day proved my doubts wrong. Joshua has once again spotted another target. With menacing eyes of a hunter who has spotted his prey, he strutted towards Jane, the class genius. She was no pushover, but with Joshua around, she was nothing. Towering above her, he stretched out his hands and extorted her for her money. Just like any other prey, she resisted, but it was of no use. She clearly knew what ensued her resist; a beating, but she could not care less. Then it happened. The thoughts came pouring in again, I felt that what they were doing was wrong, it is wrong to extort classmates for their money. Yet again, I could do nothing, but this time, I was determined to make a difference, to discover myself again, to find my identity.
The struggle was hard, but gladly, I did it. Mustering whatever I had in me, I overcame the immense hesitation within me to stop them. Obviously, what followed was I being beaten up and getting kicked out of the group. It hurt, but only on the outside, deep inside, it was the greatest relief I ever felt in my life. It sure felt good, to truly know who I am. What followed after that incident was news of me helping Jane and my reputation of a good boy was “reinstated”. It was comforting to hear that, but the main thing I gained was the fact that I found myself amidst the darkness.
One’s identity is never tied to the group of friends he mixes with. Everyone is special in their own way, no matter how they cover it up, their own identities can never be submerged by their friends. I found that out myself, from thinking that I was one of my bad friends, to realizing my own identity through their wrong deeds, which I felt wrong and they felt right. From their wrongdoings, I found myself, even though I mixed with them, I was different, borne in a different light.
That is probably what shaped me to who I am today, my own identity; someone who is upright, holds justice and never afraid to be different. I am Jack Tan, fourteen this year, special in my own way.
Friday, February 4, 2011
The Importance of Setting in a story
Where has each of the above stories been set?
The Adventure of the Speckled Band --- It has been set in the rich area of London, which is Central London,
Pride and Prejudice --- It has been set in the poor area of England, London, a town where the not so well-off people live as they cannot afford to live in the city area of London, where the standard of living is too expensive.
The Adventure of the Speckled Band --- It was set in 1983, as mentioned in the story.
The Adventure of the Speckled Band --- The setting tells us that the case Sherlock Holmes is going to handle will be a unique one, as mentioned by his friend that it is unusual seeing someone coming to their house early in the morning.
The Real Durwan --- It has been set in India, where the people were poor at that specific time.
The Adventure of the Speckled Band --- It has been set in the rich area of London, which is Central London,
Pride and Prejudice --- It has been set in the poor area of England, London, a town where the not so well-off people live as they cannot afford to live in the city area of London, where the standard of living is too expensive.
What time period has each of these stories been set in?
The Real Durwan --- It was set when India separated into three different parts, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Central India which led to many riots because of the assets lost in the midst of the moving; Hindus were moved to a particular part and Muslims were also moved to another particular part.
The Adventure of the Speckled Band --- It was set in 1983, as mentioned in the story.
Pride and Prejudice --- It was set in the 18th century, when girls had no rights to express their views and to choose their marriage partner. Their marriage partner was solely chosen by their parents, regardless of his age, looks and anything else, she had to marry him if her parents said so. She could not oppose or decline the marriage request as at that time, she had no rights to do
so.
so.
What clues do you get from the setting about the kind of story it is going to turn out to be?
The Real Durwan --- The setting tells me about how poor the old lady is and what kind of predicament she is in right now. I think it tells me that it is going to turn out to be a sad story, where her predicament is explained through a flashback.
The Adventure of the Speckled Band --- The setting tells us that the case Sherlock Holmes is going to handle will be a unique one, as mentioned by his friend that it is unusual seeing someone coming to their house early in the morning.
Pride and Prejudice --- The setting tells me about how anxious a family is to marry off the daughters in it to a rich man. It tells me that it is heading to a conclusion where one lady gets the lucky chance to do so.
Tuesday, February 1, 2011
Research Work Part 2
Trials of a true Southern Belle and Southern Gentleman
In the eyes of many, a true Southern Belle must have skills such as cooking, needle work skills and sufficient ballroom dancing skills. A Southern Gentleman must always remember to respect a lady when he sees one and be honest in no matter what situations.
In the novel, Atticus is a true Southern Gentleman, as he respects Calpurnia and all the other ladies no matter how they act. An example is Mrs Dubose, even when she insults Atticus, he takes it into his own stride and even encourages his son to go read books to her.
Bob Ewell is not a true Southern Gentleman, he does not act like one as he rapes Mary Ewell, which is not an act of respect for her.
Miss Maudie is a true Southern Belle as she knows how to bake and we can infer from her actions that she acts like a true Southern Belle too.
Harper Lee
Nelle Harper Lee, born on April 28, 1926, is an American Author, who is famously known for her novel, "To Kill a Mockingbird", which discuPrsses many issues about racism. She developed an interest in English literature in high school and further developed it, which finally led to the many books she wrote.
Other than "To Kill a Mockingbird", she wrote many other books, including, "Love-In Other Words", "Christmas to Me", "When Children Discover America" and "Romance and High Adventure".
She received the Pulitzer Prize in 1960 for her famous novel, "To Kill a Mockingbird" and also the Presidential Medal of Freedom of the United States in 2007 because of that book as well.
The book, "To Kill a Mockingbird", is significant to her as this was her first published book and was the book that helped her to receive the prizes that she received. This book also raised the awareness of racism issues and bring about an impact to a certain extent in the literature world.
In the eyes of many, a true Southern Belle must have skills such as cooking, needle work skills and sufficient ballroom dancing skills. A Southern Gentleman must always remember to respect a lady when he sees one and be honest in no matter what situations.
In the novel, Atticus is a true Southern Gentleman, as he respects Calpurnia and all the other ladies no matter how they act. An example is Mrs Dubose, even when she insults Atticus, he takes it into his own stride and even encourages his son to go read books to her.
Bob Ewell is not a true Southern Gentleman, he does not act like one as he rapes Mary Ewell, which is not an act of respect for her.
Miss Maudie is a true Southern Belle as she knows how to bake and we can infer from her actions that she acts like a true Southern Belle too.
Harper Lee
Nelle Harper Lee, born on April 28, 1926, is an American Author, who is famously known for her novel, "To Kill a Mockingbird", which discuPrsses many issues about racism. She developed an interest in English literature in high school and further developed it, which finally led to the many books she wrote.
Other than "To Kill a Mockingbird", she wrote many other books, including, "Love-In Other Words", "Christmas to Me", "When Children Discover America" and "Romance and High Adventure".
She received the Pulitzer Prize in 1960 for her famous novel, "To Kill a Mockingbird" and also the Presidential Medal of Freedom of the United States in 2007 because of that book as well.
The book, "To Kill a Mockingbird", is significant to her as this was her first published book and was the book that helped her to receive the prizes that she received. This book also raised the awareness of racism issues and bring about an impact to a certain extent in the literature world.
Research Work
Slavery
Blacks became slaves in the American Colonies during the 1600's. People were getting more slaves in the South where large plantations grew cotton and other crops. These plantations needed many workers to take care of the farms. People in the North didn't need slaves because they didn't have as many large farms as the South did.
U.S. slaves came from West Africa, mainly Nigeria, Ghana, Angola, Senegambia, and Congo.
Plantation owners were mainly the ones who bought the slaves and owned them. The region then was dominated by plantations and there was a need for workers to help in the workforce required in those plantations.
There were laws the slaves had to abide to. Slaves could not marry the whites or else they would be fined. Also, runaway slaves who refused to be arrested might be lawfully killed. Slaves were forbidden to carry arms, offensive or defensive, or to go off the plantations of their masters without a written pass, or to lift a hand against a Christian, even in self-defense.
Civil Wars
The southern states of America: Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia, Florida, south Carolina, north Carolina, Virginia, Tennessee, Kentucky, West Virginia, Washington D.C., Maryland, and Delaware.
The president who proclaimed war against the south was Abraham Lincoln.
The civil war was fought because the southern states seceded from the union as they did not want to abolish slavery and the government saw that as a rebellion, thus the civil war started.
The war was fought from April 12, 1861 to April 9, 1865
In the end slavery was abolished in the southern states and the slaves all freed from slavery.
The civil rights movement began on December 1, 1955
The civil rights movement was a mass protest movement against racial segregation and discrimination in the southern United States.
In December 1, 1955, Rosa Parks refused to give up her seat to a white man, which lead to her arrest and the Montgomery Bus Boycott. In another incident, to pressure the government and Congress to act more quickly on the civil rights agenda, a massive march on the nation's capital was planned, scheduled, and carried out on August 28th, 1963. According to estimates, over 250,000 participated in the peaceful demonstration which culminated in the speech given by Reverend Martin Luther King.
Montgomery Bus Boycott and Scottsboro trials
The Montgomery Bus Boycott was sparked off by the ruling of the court, which issued a fine to a Negro woman, just because she was unwilling to give up her seat to a white woman on the bus. Rosa Parks, who was the victim, appealed, but failed to receive any satisfactory answer. The crowd then began the boycott and was successful. This trial held great significance as because of this, the Alabama and Montgomery laws which required racially segregated bus was abandoned.
The Scottsboro trial made history as it was the first time a Negro was not issued a death penalty although he was convicted of rape. It was also the first time a Negro received a fair trail, impartial juries and decisions not made out of racial discrimination.
In the novel, Tom Robinson is also convicted of rape although he did not commit this offence, somewhat similar to the Scottsboro Boys case when the boy was also convicted of rape and they tried to fight to prove their innocence. The Tom Robinson case also made a “mark of history” as it was the first time a Negro rape-related case took so much time to come to a verdict. As stated in the book, one of the jury fought for Tom Robinson’s innocence, just like the Scottsboro Boys case which was the first case to receive a fair verdict. Both lost the case at the first attempt, but the appeals both made was successful.
Jim Crow's Laws
The Jim Crow's law states that African Americans are inferior to the white Americans and declares a wide racial segregation to be put in place, for example on buses, where people of different races are segregated and would be punished if they did not follow the segregation.
They were angry and tried to fight for their equality that they felt that they deserved.
An example of Jim Crow's law that was evidently shown in the novel was the Tom Robinson case. He was treated unfairly by all the members of the jury except one just because he is a Negro. He did not receive a fair judgement and this is also because of the Jim Crow's Laws.
Monday, January 24, 2011
Comics Section
Just today, I have posted a comics section, just right at the top of my website. So, here are some questions I will answer to allow you to understand my comics better.
Why did I choose the different backgrounds or pictures?
Basically, I choose the background of a restaurant because my storyline is closely related to the restaurant, where it is suitable for me to create an environment where everyone is classy.
How do they contribute to the elements (plot, setting, characterization) of your narrative?
These elements, especially the background, brings out the setting much more clearly. The setting here requires a very quiet environment, where everyone is refined. The main character here actually has a stomachache and has a need to release gas. So in this case, he tries to take the short way out, to try to use the "noise" around him to cover up the sound made by his gas. He then realises that he is actually wearing earphones, and the "noise" around him is all fake.
The setting here, which is the refine environment, brings out the sense of embarrassment of his actions, as it is considered rude to just do this out loud in a restaurant. If we look at it from a different point of view, if this is done in a another place, for example the market place, he would not feel this sense of embarrassment anymore and the plot of the story would be lost.
How did you make use of the different elements to contribute to the theme you have chosen?
The theme I have chosen here is not to try to take the short way out just to avoid the hassle. The element that is most able to bring out the theme is that the main character has a stomachache, and needs to release gas, and he has two choices. He can either choose to go to the toilet to do so or just try to do what he has done in the story. In the story, the hassle as stated in the main theme is to go to the toilet just to release gas. The main character then tries to take the short way out, which is to try to cover the sound made by his gas by using the "noise" around him. But as seen from the story, his plan failed terribly and he ended up in embarrassment. This element strongly brings out the main theme of the story as shown in my comic.
Thank You!
Why did I choose the different backgrounds or pictures?
Basically, I choose the background of a restaurant because my storyline is closely related to the restaurant, where it is suitable for me to create an environment where everyone is classy.
How do they contribute to the elements (plot, setting, characterization) of your narrative?
These elements, especially the background, brings out the setting much more clearly. The setting here requires a very quiet environment, where everyone is refined. The main character here actually has a stomachache and has a need to release gas. So in this case, he tries to take the short way out, to try to use the "noise" around him to cover up the sound made by his gas. He then realises that he is actually wearing earphones, and the "noise" around him is all fake.
The setting here, which is the refine environment, brings out the sense of embarrassment of his actions, as it is considered rude to just do this out loud in a restaurant. If we look at it from a different point of view, if this is done in a another place, for example the market place, he would not feel this sense of embarrassment anymore and the plot of the story would be lost.
How did you make use of the different elements to contribute to the theme you have chosen?
The theme I have chosen here is not to try to take the short way out just to avoid the hassle. The element that is most able to bring out the theme is that the main character has a stomachache, and needs to release gas, and he has two choices. He can either choose to go to the toilet to do so or just try to do what he has done in the story. In the story, the hassle as stated in the main theme is to go to the toilet just to release gas. The main character then tries to take the short way out, which is to try to cover the sound made by his gas by using the "noise" around him. But as seen from the story, his plan failed terribly and he ended up in embarrassment. This element strongly brings out the main theme of the story as shown in my comic.
Thank You!
Monday, January 17, 2011
Discrimination Boo Hoo
Hi all, I am back! This time, my task is to classify the different types of discrimination according to Mrs Anu's instructions.
One of them I have created is --- Discrimination based on monetary status and wealth
Some of the different types of discrimination that fall into this group are discrimination based on employment, economic status and brand. Some examples are the discrimination very evident in the present society against Indian workers. People are discrimination against them.
Another group I have created is --- Discrimination based on factors decided upon birth
Those that fall into this group are discrimination based on ancestry, race, gender, mental or physical disability, appearance, nationality, background, political affiliation and genes.
The third group I have created is --- Discrimination based on factors that are chosen by people on their own free will
Those that fall into this specific group are discrimination based on education, sex, discrimination, sexual orientation and perception and marital status.
Finally, the last group we have created is --- Discrimination based on factors that are uncontrollable
Those that fall into this specific group is age discrimination.
My personal feelings are just that I feel that there should not be discrimination in this world, we are all the same, no matter how we act, how we look, we are who we are. There is nothing that separates one from another, we are all equal!
One of them I have created is --- Discrimination based on monetary status and wealth
Some of the different types of discrimination that fall into this group are discrimination based on employment, economic status and brand. Some examples are the discrimination very evident in the present society against Indian workers. People are discrimination against them.
Another group I have created is --- Discrimination based on factors decided upon birth
Those that fall into this group are discrimination based on ancestry, race, gender, mental or physical disability, appearance, nationality, background, political affiliation and genes.
The third group I have created is --- Discrimination based on factors that are chosen by people on their own free will
Those that fall into this specific group are discrimination based on education, sex, discrimination, sexual orientation and perception and marital status.
Finally, the last group we have created is --- Discrimination based on factors that are uncontrollable
Those that fall into this specific group is age discrimination.
My personal feelings are just that I feel that there should not be discrimination in this world, we are all the same, no matter how we act, how we look, we are who we are. There is nothing that separates one from another, we are all equal!
Saturday, January 15, 2011
Poem Analysis, Da Man's Way
The Little Boy and the Old Man by Shel Silverstein
After reading the poem, naturally there would be questions to be answered and questions to be asked. Here are some questions we have to answer.
1) What is the underlying message that is being conveyed in this poem?
The poem is trying to tell us not to look at the bad side of things for there are people who also faces the same problem as you and not to keep looking at the past, but rather, look ahead towards the future we will all face.
2) He has used dialogue specifically in this poem, and it is very evident from the poem that it brings out the message more clearly as each sentence of the poem contains a dialogue. The direct speeches made convey the message faster to the reader as the reader does not need to interpret what Shel Silverstein is trying to say and just understand straight from the dialogue given.
Messy Room by Shel Silverstein
1) Can you say that the poem is humorous? If so how?
At first, the persona was giving negative comments on the tidyness of the room, and making sarcastic remarks. He also comments on the owner of the room and feels that he should be ashamed of himself and his behaviour. But he only realises that he was talking about his own room all this time and I feel that his ignorance and inability to realise his own faults is humorous.
2) What aspect of the human character has been highlighted in the poem?
The most evident human character highlighted here is the fact that one is so quick to blame others, such that one deludes the fact that he is probably committing the same fault or perhaps he is actually the one at fault. One fails to see his own faults when he gets blamed, and instead, immediately pushes the blame to others.
Cloony The Clown by Shel Silverstein
1) Explain the irony in this poem
The irony in this poem is when Cloony tries everything he can to make everyone laugh and tries to be funny, he failed to do so and everyone felt that he did not have the ability to be funny. But when he honestly hopes to confide to everyone about his negative feelings, what he received was laughter and mocking. The irony is that he is not happy in the end even though he hopes to make everyone laugh at the beginning, and this is mainly because the people are laughing at his misery, rather than laughing due to his effort he puts in to make them laugh.
2) Does Shel Silverstein manage to convey such harsh realities in this poem?
He manages to convey the message that the world can be sadistic towards anyone and laugh at your miseries when you confide in them and seek condolences from them.
3) What poetic devices has the poet used to effectively convey his message?
Which of the above poems can you identify with the most? Write down your thoughts on your blog.
After reading the poem, naturally there would be questions to be answered and questions to be asked. Here are some questions we have to answer.
1) What is the underlying message that is being conveyed in this poem?
The poem is trying to tell us not to look at the bad side of things for there are people who also faces the same problem as you and not to keep looking at the past, but rather, look ahead towards the future we will all face.
2) He has used dialogue specifically in this poem, and it is very evident from the poem that it brings out the message more clearly as each sentence of the poem contains a dialogue. The direct speeches made convey the message faster to the reader as the reader does not need to interpret what Shel Silverstein is trying to say and just understand straight from the dialogue given.
Messy Room by Shel Silverstein
1) Can you say that the poem is humorous? If so how?
At first, the persona was giving negative comments on the tidyness of the room, and making sarcastic remarks. He also comments on the owner of the room and feels that he should be ashamed of himself and his behaviour. But he only realises that he was talking about his own room all this time and I feel that his ignorance and inability to realise his own faults is humorous.
2) What aspect of the human character has been highlighted in the poem?
The most evident human character highlighted here is the fact that one is so quick to blame others, such that one deludes the fact that he is probably committing the same fault or perhaps he is actually the one at fault. One fails to see his own faults when he gets blamed, and instead, immediately pushes the blame to others.
Cloony The Clown by Shel Silverstein
1) Explain the irony in this poem
The irony in this poem is when Cloony tries everything he can to make everyone laugh and tries to be funny, he failed to do so and everyone felt that he did not have the ability to be funny. But when he honestly hopes to confide to everyone about his negative feelings, what he received was laughter and mocking. The irony is that he is not happy in the end even though he hopes to make everyone laugh at the beginning, and this is mainly because the people are laughing at his misery, rather than laughing due to his effort he puts in to make them laugh.
2) Does Shel Silverstein manage to convey such harsh realities in this poem?
He manages to convey the message that the world can be sadistic towards anyone and laugh at your miseries when you confide in them and seek condolences from them.
3) What poetic devices has the poet used to effectively convey his message?
Which of the above poems can you identify with the most? Write down your thoughts on your blog.
I can identify most with the poem Messy Room by Shel Silverstein. The poem underlies the fact that one is so quick to blame others such the one often deludes the fact that the same situation might apply for himself. For me, it happens quite often, especially during my secondary 1 year.
One experience for me was closely related to my CCA, a group of friends, including me, was recruited to Track and Field sprints group. We were very reluctant at first, but we withstood the temptation to skip trainings and tried our best to attend all the trainings as many times as possible.
But after the first few months of training, most of us got sick of the training. So, to skip the boredom we face each training, most of us begin to skip trainings. Being the captain with so tme responsiblity, I endured and still continued to attend training. But my friends thought otherwise. They started to skip trainings and I began to get irritated by their attitude. So, after much hesistation, I scolded them.
After much reflection done while lying on my bed thinking about it thoroughly, I felt that I myself had a bad attitude too. I think the underlying message Shel Silverstein is trying to underline to readers with this poem can fully apply to the situation I faced. Without looking and reflection about my actions, I reprimanded my teammates for their bad attitude. Perhaps they all could have learn it from me, in any case, I was wrong and unfit to scold them without being disciplined myself.
After much reflection done while lying on my bed thinking about it thoroughly, I felt that I myself had a bad attitude too. I think the underlying message Shel Silverstein is trying to underline to readers with this poem can fully apply to the situation I faced. Without looking and reflection about my actions, I reprimanded my teammates for their bad attitude. Perhaps they all could have learn it from me, in any case, I was wrong and unfit to scold them without being disciplined myself.
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