The Dark Shadow Shrine

WED/THUR CLASS ALERT!!!

2012-02-17T00:27:00.003+08:00

Forgot to inform you people to bring the compre question paper with you for next week's lesson as I'll be going through the answers. It's the compre (on HABITS) that you did during our first session. Most of the scripts are with me, but some of you are still holding on to it for some reasons.....
Also, make it a habit to come in here at least once a week as I may use this blog as a channel to notify you of stuff. You can also contact me by clicking on the 'Drop a Howler!' link at the bottom left panel.....

Committing a Crime vs Committing a Sin

2012-02-16T01:06:00.016+08:00

If you had watched a recent movie on Laughing Kor (Laughing Brother), there's a distinction made btw Committing a 'crime' (fan4 fa3) vs committing a 'sin' (fan4 zui4). Just because you have committed a crime need not mean automatically that you have committed a sin. Eg. if you steal bread from a shop to feed your starving child, you are deemed to have committed a crime in the eyes of the law, but in the eyes of God or your conscience, this 'crime' is not a sin.

Contrary to our general perception, the law is not exactly perfect. Think controversial, unfair, outdated, discriminatory laws....Other than the Section 377A of the penal code shown in an earlier post, here are 2 more examples of problematic laws:

Article 1(a) Article 1(b) cont'd

Article 2:
Qns:

-Should the law always be obeyed?

-Is it ever acceptable to break the law? (HCI)
-Justice is always served whenever the law is upheld. Do you agree?

Private lives of Public Figures

2012-02-16T00:45:00.003+08:00

If you've been following the news recently, you will notice:
Whitney Houston died (from drug abuse?). Yaw Chin Leong was expelled from the Worker's Party (extra-marital affair). an ex-principal resigned (sought sexual service online). the Makiyo incident in Taiwan....Add to the list people like Jack Neo, Tiger Woods, Michael Jackson and Bill Clinton....See a pattern? What about the scandal about priests sexually abusing children? Sexual orientation of celebrities like Elton John and Ellen Degeneres?
Using the example-backtrack-to-point method for brainstorming, see if you can generate points for the qns that follow....

Sample essay: To what extent should the private lives of public figures be the subject of media coverage?

Other Qns:

-As long as people in the public eye do their job well, does it matter what they do in private? (Cambridge 'A' level 2009)

-Should we treat our celebrities any differently from any other person? (RJC 2010)

Perils of Online Shopping

2012-02-16T00:19:00.006+08:00

Blogshop/E-Shopping is touted as an advantage of the internet, but it comes with attendant ills. The article also deals with society's obsession with beauty, which is a result of the impact of foreign culture on our society (globalization, Korean Wave)
Qn:
-Should current restrictions on drugs be relaxed? (AJC Prelim 2010)
-Assess the impact of foregn films or foreign TV programmes on the culture of your society. (Cambridge 'A' level 2008)

Answers for Language Error Worksheet

2012-02-15T23:37:00.002+08:00

Those from my Wed/Thur class can check the answers here for those errors compiled from your essay test. Click: http://jgcm.webs.com/sentences%20w%20mistacks%20(ANS).doc

The Signposting Argument for 377A and the role of the LAW

2012-02-15T01:03:00.008+08:00

For the class where we were discussing Section 377A of the Penal Code under Singapore law which criminalizes gay sex, here’s the signposting argument which I wasn’t able to clarify in class:

Detractors(those who wanted 377A to be retained) have argued that the law should reflect what is and is not permissible by society. In other words, legislation serves an important signposting function of reflecting social morality. Hence, repealing this law would send the wrong signal to the public that sexual acts between members of the same gender is actually condoned by society. This will result in murky or confusing morality signals as most people take their cue from the law when it comes to morality. Therefore, Section 377A should not be repealed.

However, the lawyer in the article (see article above) rebutted that such a signposting argument does not hold water. This is because there are unambiguously immoral behaviour or acts in our society today that are not signposted as illegal by the law. Cases in point include prostitution, extra-marital affairs, marital rape, etc. Society obviously frowns upon these acts, but they are not signposted as illegal. Thus, even if one regards same-gender sex as immoral, it is not fair to retain the 377A to criminalize it. To insist on doing so is to be guilty of applying double standards as one would in effect be unfairly singling out same-gender sex as a crime while turning a blind eye to other equally reprehensible acts. The law should be carried out in a fair manner, not operate in a selective manner according to one’s prejudice. Hence, using the signposting argument to argue for the retention of Section 377A lacks conviction.

---------------------------
THE FUNCTION OF LAW – The relationship between legislation and social norm
I raised this point as it is related to the function of law which I mentioned before. The law is supposed to reflect social norm (i.e. social morality in this case) insofar as these social norms are desirable. Hence, it is perfectly ok to have the law says that eating your children is a crime, and taking care of your parents is not a crime, ‘cos these are what our society feels. It is also important that these acts are desirable.
In cases where the social norms in concern are not desirable and are motivated by prejudice, then the other function of the law needs to come in – the law will have to re-define the social norms (since these are flawed) in order to correct the undesirable behaviour of the public. Say if the social norm of a particular society is to discriminate against women or eat one’s parents when they are old, then the law -- instead of serving its earlier function of reflecting (and thereby endorsing) this flawed social norm – has to redefine this social norm by making it illegal to continue discriminating against women or eat one’s old parents. You can see it as the law being used to correct a flawed social norm and educating people on what a desirable social norm should be like.

In a nutshell, legislation (i.e. the law) has two main functions – to reflect and reinforce/perpetuate desirable social norms, as well as to redefine, correct and educate people against flawed/undesirable social norms. Where society is enlightened, the law has to reflect its desirable behaviour and give it its endorsement. But where society is misguided, then the law has to take the lead to enlighten society on the right path.

Try to relate to last year’s qn on

1) “Can prejudice ever be eliminated?” -- by using this point on the role of the law to give you that two sides of the argument. Hint: the law can both perpetuate and alleviate prejudice.

2) "Consider the view that efficient government is more important than democracy." -- One common criticism of democracy is what is termed 'tyranny of the majority'. So even if the govt is efficient at getting things done, but if this comes at the expense of people's rights and freedom (majority discriminating against the minority gays and lesbians) then is it still desirable?

Happy Valentine's Day!

2012-02-14T23:08:00.004+08:00

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY!

'love is not love, when it alters when it alteration finds' -- Shakespeare.

Robotics Technology

2012-02-14T22:40:00.006+08:00

Qn: To what extent has technology had a negative impact on the skill level of people? (Cambridge 'A' level 2010)

-- an excellent example using robotics surgery. Recall the opposing view in an earlier post about how technology has a cripping effect (as opposed to the enabling effect here) on us.

Video Clip on WALL-E & Lazy Economy

2012-02-13T02:25:00.012+08:00

Clip 1: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pugva5H71QQ&feature=related
Clip 2: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gKRPVJ0kmxI&feature=related
The movie "WALL-E" is a cautionary movie in many ways. It warns us of how earth can become an uninhabitable place and full of rubbish if we do not take care and protect it. In this clip, it also shows how technology is so efficient and convenient that it can have a crippling (instead of enabling) effect on us.
Relate to issues on our destructive consumerist ways and the effect of technology on us. Think also about the function of movies. Are they merely for entertainment? What about movies like Avatar, We Not Naughty?

Consider also this article on 'lazy economy', a result of how the convenience of technology has 'crippled' us and made us lazy:

Qn: 'Science and technology have shaped us to be what we are today.' Do you agree? (IJC Prelim 2010)

Interesting Videos -- MUST WATCH!!!

2012-02-12T02:43:00.004+08:00

If I have not already shown you these clips, and you haven't seen them before, I suggest you take a peek! The first one is about how social media or technology can help to strengthen bonds between people, esp for those who are shy introverts..or disinclined towards saying mushing things out loud.....whereas the second one acts as a rebuttal to show that social media interferes with bonding......

Qn: Has social media made us more sociable?

McDonald's! GASP!!!

2012-02-12T02:13:00.010+08:00

Check out this link on McDonald's:http://sg.news.yahoo.com/mcdonalds-drops-us-egg-supplier-over-farm-cruelty-161113776.html OR http://jgcm.webs.com/McDonald.doc
If link taking too long to open up, try right click on link, save target file, then open up and read..... Then relate to this qn:
'Environmental concerns and economic growth cannot co-exist.' Do you agree? (Cambridge 'A' level 2011)
Note also the function of the media here as the watchdog, to blow the whistle on errant behaviour of MNCs to ensure they toe the line.....

Social Media & Privacy

2012-02-12T02:09:00.003+08:00

For those who did the qn "Has social media made us less sociable?", you may want to take a look at this. It's similar to an article one of you recently emailed me. Can be used for qn: "The youths of today are victims of the multi-channelled and internet-linked world. Do you agree?"

TRADITIONAL FAMILY

2012-02-12T02:01:00.002+08:00

Can prejudice ever be eliminated? (Cambridge 'A' level 2011) -- tradition/religion can be a controversial force in perpetuating the prejudice against divorce, single parenthood and homosexuality,

Consider also the qn I discussed in one of my classes: To what extent does the traditional family promote discrimination?

ROLE OF NEWSPAPERS

2012-02-12T01:41:00.004+08:00

ARTICLE 1: ARTICLE 2:

Qn: In the digital age, do newspapers still have a role in your society?

Consider also Article 2 in the light of this qn I discussed recently: 'The media sells us false hope.' Discuss.

Article 2 is also useful for some background on the tabloid scandal on "The News of the World".

TROPHY KIDS

2012-02-12T01:35:00.002+08:00

This concept on 'trophy kids' was mentioned in the Facebook compre we did. Read for the background and relate to last year's 'A' level qn:

Do awards and prizes serve any useful purpose?

MEDICAL ETHICS

2012-02-11T23:03:00.020+08:00

Here are some articles related to the 2011 'A' level P1:

Qn: To what extent is it acceptable for private companies to be involved in financing scientific research?
Qn: How far should medical resources be used to extend life expectancy?

NB: Note the mention of chimeric research and how embryos are destroyed when stem cells are harvested from them.

ARTICLE 1: (2 PAGES)

This is a reply to the above article:
ARTICLE 2:

SPACE ARTICLE II

2012-02-10T23:33:00.007+08:00

Relate the 2 pages of this article to the same space essay qn from the previous post.....To view the article, just click on it and view using a larger font size....

SPACE ARTICLE I

2012-02-10T23:26:00.002+08:00

ARTICLE about space research in Singapore. Relate to last year's 'A' level essay qn:
Can space research be justified nowadays?

RESURRECTION 2012!!!

2012-02-10T22:50:00.007+08:00

THIS BLOG IS OFFICIALLY RE-ACTIVATED FROM THIS MOMENT:

11 Feb 2012 0001hrs

YEAH! It's ALIVE -- AGAIN!!!

VJC Prelim 08 Compre on Gambling (AQ Ans)

2010-09-06T22:42:00.002+08:00

Click HERE for the setter's AQ answer key; you have to scroll down to Page 4. You may want to try the rest of the paper as well.

Science & Tech Link

2010-08-07T00:43:00.001+08:00

Discovered this link with several essay outlines on science and tech topic. looks good! Click HERE.

NJC Prelim 2008 P2 Ans Key

2010-07-26T23:05:00.002+08:00

Click HERE for the answer key. I have included the entire answer key, so you can practise the short questions and the summary if you wish so -- Highly Encouraged!

THE DARK SHADOW TRILOGY REVISION MANUAL FOR GP

2010-06-21T23:48:00.007+08:00

PAPER ONE MANUAL
PAPER TWO MANUAL
PAPER TWO AQ MANUAL

The Price of a Kiss -- 90 lashes, 4-mth Jail & 2-mth Ban from Shopping Malls!

2010-06-12T23:02:00.003+08:00

Click HERE for the article.
From the Chinese paper version, it was mentioned that the religious patrol police first noticed the couple engaging in the 'illicit' act through the shopping mall's CCTV!

Issues: religion, violence, privacy, freedom of rights...

The Meaning of ISLAM

2010-06-09T13:31:00.003+08:00

Click HERE for an interesting definition of how Islam = PEACE!
Can use as an interesting anecdote or nugget of info to open or close an essay.

Religion : City Harvest Church Controversy

2010-06-09T13:24:00.003+08:00

Watch THIS clip.
I don't know about you but this is disturbingly like a corporate AGM with the CEO doing a sales pitch to its shareholders to inject more funds into the company's expansion. There are arguably grounds for saying that religion could be (ab)used as an excuse/licence for commercial profits/gains. Think Renci. Whether the City Harvest example can apply here remains to be seen as the jury is still out on this one.
Possibe Qn: Religion has done more harm than good. Discuss. (RJC JC1 Mid Yr 2010)

JJC Prelim 2009 P2 (Moral Education) Setter's AQ Answer Key

2010-05-31T23:00:00.006+08:00

For those new to this blog, it's faster to access the links by right-click on them and then save target file.

Setter's AQ Ans Key:P1, P2, P3

Click HERE for sample student answer.

Extra: AWARE sexuality programme course materials

If you encounter any problem with the links or have any queries whatsoever, send me a 'howler' HERE!

Dead Sea Anecdote

2010-05-18T21:20:00.004+08:00

Dead Sea anecdote -- a lesson on the need to give back to others in life; mere taking from others without giving back will only result in death! An interesting and excellent way to start or end off an essay on social graciousness and charity.

Privacy

2010-05-14T22:29:00.008+08:00

Sample Essay Format

Related links/articles:

1)RJC tutor video clip
2)Paparazzi over Cecilia Chung giving birth
3)Bodyscanner
4)CCTV
5)Google info used for solving crime
6)Tapping of phones by govts
7)Google Street View:Page 1; Page 2
8)Phone Tracking Device:Page 1; Page 2

2006 P2 Compre on Liberty, Equality & Fraternity

2010-05-13T00:37:00.000+08:00

1)Cambridge Examiner's Report (including Paper 1)

2)P2 ans (from PJC)

3)Summary & AQ ans (from TJC)

4)AQ ans from Perspective Bulletin: Page 1; Page 2

Environment Stuff

2010-05-11T12:14:00.005+08:00

Notes on Envmt

Related Articles:
1)Wal-Mart
2)Singapore's position on nuclear power
3)BCA Green Award and Funding
4)Criticisms of Biofuels
5)Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)
6)Meaning behind "Economics"
7)Green is NOT Better
8)It Pays for MNC to go Green
9)Singapore Green Dollar: #1; #2

Arts - no purpose except amuse and entertain?

2010-05-10T22:54:00.007+08:00

Amuse&Entertain
-Tracy Emin's "My Bed"
-Duchamp's Urinal

Does NOT Amuse&Entertain
-Piet Mondrian's Art
-Local Artist Joseph Ng snipped pubic hair and drank urine: #1; #2

Other Purposes
Political Statement
-Picasso's "Guernica"
-Sugar Sculpture "September Sweetness"

Socio-Environmental Message
-Works by China's Photographer Lu Guang

Essay Feedback on NYJC JC1 Block Test 09

2010-05-10T22:50:00.002+08:00

For feedback on the above, click HERE and then scroll down to the entry titled 'Mid Year Test Paper One Feedback'.

2005 P2 Aggression Summary & AQ ans

2010-05-03T23:32:00.004+08:00

1)Summary Ans

2)AQ ans key

3)AQ ans key from Perspective BulletinPage 1;
Page 2

4)My sample AQ ans key

5)AQ response on STYLE of writer

Media to blame for Violence?

2010-04-30T13:29:00.003+08:00

HERE for essay outline.

BKK vs IRAN: censorship justified?

2010-04-26T14:47:00.002+08:00

Compare the two parallel cases where the local govt imposed censorship in the name of social stability.

Bangkok (2010)
bkk1
bkk2

Iran (2009)
iran1
iran2

Susan Boyle!!!

2010-04-25T20:48:00.004+08:00

1)Susan Boyle : Style vs Substance? Society's emphasis on appearance/image?

2) HERE for insightful commentary on Boyle

3) HERE for role of internet

4) HERE for the latest -- male version of Susan Boyle from Taiwan! Hear him sing "I will always love you"

Fashion with a 'GREEN' Statement

2010-04-25T20:21:00.007+08:00

I am NOT a Plastic Bag (click to see)

'Fashion is as much a good thing as a bad thing.' To what extent do you agree?(2009)

Pastor Ronny Tan

2010-04-25T20:18:00.004+08:00

Pastor's Ronny Tan's controversial views on:

1) Buddhism

2) Gays&Lesbians

Censorship : No-Go Zones

2010-04-25T19:47:00.021+08:00

NOTES ON CENSORSHIP PROS&CONS

1) South Park
a) South Park clip
b) Click HERE for latest on South Park controversy concerning Prophet Muhammad

2) King of Thailand
a) Thai King with monkey face and feet in face
b) Write-up on Thai King video clip controversy

3) US Political Figures
a) Michelle Obama
b) Ex-President George W. Bush

4) Prophet Muhammad
a) Article on the violence triggered by the Prophet Muhammad Cartoon
b) Pig
c) Dog
d) Comic Strips (including Prophet as terrorist)

5)Terrorism
(a)Abu Ghraib
(b)Obama
(c)Bali Bombers
(d)Mumbai Attack Article 1; Article 2

6)Local Artist Joseph Ng snipped pubic hair and drank urine: #1; #2

Celebrity Culture P2 Answer Key

2010-04-25T19:19:00.014+08:00

If have difficulty accessing the links, try right click and save target file:

1) Short Qns & Summary Ans

2) AQ answers

3) Sample AQ answers

4) Sample AQ Format

5) HOW vs WHAT approach

Related Articles/Links:
(a)Artistes supporting Green movement
(b)Indonesian Politics
(c)Style in Singapore Politics
(d)Substance in Singapore Politics
(e)Britain TV Election
(f)Susan Boyle on Britain's Got Talent
(g)William Hung's Hung-mania
(h)Gossip Girl Blake Lively's Hair

Common GP Question Types

2009-09-12T12:07:00.000+08:00

HERE're the question types....

T Minus 8Days......

2009-09-03T23:37:00.002+08:00

After 8 weeks of dispensing nuggets of 'shadowy' wisdom, this shrine will be de-activated after the hols -- exactly 8 days from now! Thank you for paying homage to the shrine.....you are now free to convert and embrace other faiths....

Consultation

2009-09-03T23:24:00.001+08:00

Yoz!

Given dat the feedback in class was kinda rushy, those who still have queries about their Paper 1 and/or 2 test can:

1)forward ur queries via email and I'll try to reply and explain
OR
2)make appt for consultation. I can meet u in sch next Fri morning (during sch hols). Just email me ur name, class, hp no. and a proposed time slot on fri morn and I'll get back to u via sms. (I'll reply only next week though 'cos will be beezy)

My email add: aegeansea09@gmail.com

The window for amendment of marks is closed. So dont see me regarding this. Let it be known also that you should NOT come and ask me how to improve GP. The consultation is strictly for feedback on the test, e.g. u don't understand the answer in the answer key. Both Paper 1& 2 answer keys are available in this blog.

Finally, ALL the BEST in ur promos and 'A' level next year. I hope I've been of some trickle of help during the past 8 weeks.....

GOH GOTTA GO!

Answer Key for Compre Test on Wealth

2009-08-29T22:55:00.003+08:00

Click HERE to access the setter's answer key.

THIS is a sample AQ marked by me.

Right Click on link and save as target file to access links.

Cause of Economic Tsunamis

2009-08-19T20:22:00.001+08:00

We broached on the topic of the causes of the credit crunch/crisis that sparked off the current economic tsunamis that has spread throughout the entire world, giving truth to the statement, "When America sneezes, the rest of the world catch a cold". Click on THIS LINK to get a better idea of this complicated process....

AQ response notes on Compre by David Loyld

2009-08-19T20:13:00.001+08:00

HERE are the notes on the AQ we tried in class.....

Mid Year Test Paper One Feedback

2009-08-19T00:37:00.008+08:00

1) HERE is the main feedback from the setters of the paper

2)THIS is an essay outline on qn 11 which I reworked from a script. Note the intro/conclusion and structure.....

3)The enshrined essays which I've marked:
-Script 1
-Script 2: p1, p2, p3

Shakespeare Compre Summary Ans Key

2009-08-19T00:26:00.002+08:00

I've reworked the answer HERE.

TJC Compre on SPORTS

2009-08-17T11:17:00.002+08:00

For the compre on Sports which we rushed through in class:

1)HERE is the answer key for the short questions and summary.

2)THESE are the sample AQ responses by the setter of the paper as well as one by a student. But they may be hard to follow and very wordy.....nonetheless, the examples are very good.

3)I have included HERE a sample response thatI've prepared based on the marco-mico structure and the AQ skills that I've put forth in class.....

Hope all these help..... :)

AQ Stuff

2009-08-16T20:54:00.002+08:00

I've merged the macro and micro structure for AQ together to minimise confusion. Click HERE to access. Page 2 deals with the skills to tackle AQ.

Sports Diplomacy Article: READ!!!

2009-08-12T23:19:00.000+08:00

In line with this weeks's lecture theme on SPORTS, read up THIS article on sports diplomacy which I think I've shown you briefly in class. You may need some of the info here for a class task coming up....

Pancake Compre Answer Key

2009-08-04T22:45:00.000+08:00

You can refer to the answer key of the Pancake Compre HERE after I've gone through it in class.

Summary Practice -- National Day 'HomeJOY'

2009-08-04T11:49:00.004+08:00

Try THIS summary practice. You may have to be patient as it's a big pdf file, so may take a while to download. Try right click and save target file.....

Suggested AQ Structure

2009-08-03T23:02:00.001+08:00

These are the handouts I showed in class on the suggested AQ structure:
macro vs micro.

The Story of Lilith -- the Predecessor to Eve

2009-07-31T12:24:00.006+08:00

If you keen to know more about Lilith, the 'original' first woman that was banished from the garden of Eden, go to THIS link and scroll all the way down to the last entry on the page dated 18 Feb 2006. Recognise though that this is not from the common version of the bible that we have today.

Notes on Paragraph Development

2009-07-31T00:23:00.007+08:00

This will give you some ideas on how to expand and develop your paragraph, esp for those seemingly self-evident points.....Simply click HERE!

Basic Structure of a para:
1) Topic sentence
2) Elaboration
-Why? How?
-Compare/Contrast
-Rebuttal
3) Example(s)

Notes on Crafting Introductions & Conclusions

2009-07-30T23:55:00.007+08:00

Hi there!

HERE are some stuff that you may find useful on crafting intro and conclusion paras.

To crystalise the gist for you, click HERE!

If the link doesn't work, try right click on link and save target file.

NB: some of the sample intro and concluding paras are quite long; you are not advised to emulate their length. A good length is about 50 to 80 words.

Year 6 Lit Past Yr Qns

2007-09-20T22:51:00.001+08:00

http://www.freewebs.com/jgcm/Exam%20Questions%20for%20M4M%20n%20GT.doc

Go to the link above and print out the list of past yr qns for Measure for Measure AND Gulliver's Travels. Use them as practice qns for revision, as well as to strategise for the text-based section.

GCM

Year 3 Lit CourseWork

2007-08-31T20:53:00.000+08:00

Hi

Have replied to all who submitted your drafts, even the late ones, if your draft reached my mailbox by today. Will no longer be responding to any more drafts from today onwards except:
1) if you need me to clarify my blue comments in your draft which I've emailed back to you (just email your queries to me)
2) verbal feeback when school starts next term BEFORE the deadline (u must come see me with ur draft).

DEADLINE: 12 Sep 2007 Wed before 5pm. Only PRINTED copy of your final draft will be accepted.
Be reminded that this will constitute 20% of your lit exam grade at the end of this year.
Be also forewarned about the consequences of plagiarism!

GCM

Year 3 Lit Essay on MB

2007-08-21T16:46:00.000+08:00

With reference to te whole of Act 2 Scene 2, comment on its dramatic significance and how it sheds light on the relationship between Macbeth and Lady Macbeth.

DEADLINE: 10 Sep 2007 by 5pm.

GCM

Year 5 Lit Conferencing Reminder

2007-08-06T15:08:00.000+08:00

In case you didn't realise, the conferencing sessions for your World Lit assignments start next week, i.e. Mon.
Refer to my previous blog entry dated 16 July for more details.

On the appointed day, come see me with the following:
1) your draft (be forewarned about the penalty for PLAGIARISM! whether unwittingly or otherwise)
2) filled up checklist (downloadable here: http://www.freewebs.com/jgcm/Checklist%20for%20use%20in%20preparing%20first%20draft.doc)
3) specific questions that you my have

Do note that a copy of your draft should have been passed to me at least two days before the scheduled appt.

For the 14 Sep deadline, be aware that you need to submit two things:
1) your final draft version (with a cover page outlining your name and school)
2) a copy of the draft which you showed me during the conferencing session

Do NOT email me anything!

GCM

Year 6 Lit National Day 'Treat'!

2007-08-06T10:13:00.000+08:00

Comparison Essay on the two unseen poems...refer to the handout given in class.

Note comparative structure in your writing.
Submit Qn paper with your script.

DEADLINE: 13 Aug 2007 Mon

GCM

Year 3 Lit Course Work

2007-08-01T16:31:00.001+08:00

Choose either ONE of the two questions below:

1) Macbeth
Discuss the influence of the Witches and Lady Macbeth on Macbeth. To what extent is each responsible for his crimes? Use material from Act 1 and 2 only.

2) Lord of the Flies
Simon says: “Maybe there is a beast.”
Ralph says: “But there isn’t a beast.”
Jack says: “We’ll make sure when we go hunting.”

How does William Golding use the “beast” in the novel as a whole?

You should write about:
• what the “beast” may symbolise
• the way the boys’ ideas about the “beast” change
• what effect the “beast” has on the boys.

Note:

- The coursework component will constitute 20% of your final exam grade at the end of this year.

- Your essay must be type-written.

- word length: about 600-800 words

- remember to have a proper structure(intro, conclusion, one point per para, topic sentence, Point-Quote-Comment format, etc.)

- You will email me your first draft and I will email back to you with comments which you will use to do an improved version.

- Your final draft must be a printed hard copy; emails will NOT be entertained.

- Do remember to include the qn and your name in your script

Submission of 1st draft via email: any time before 23rd August (Thur)

Submission of final printed copy: 12 September (Wed)

GCM

Year 5 Lit Poetry Presentation

2007-08-01T14:38:00.000+08:00

The assessment for this will be in two parts:
1)Presentation -- every member of the group will receive the same grade for this group presentation
2)Written essay based on presentation -- individual submission and individual grade to be awarded

For presentation, all members of the group must speak up....Basically, you are required to 'teach' the poem to the class and make the link to the Gothic where applicable.

Presentation starts next Monday....For "Rime of the Ancient Mariner" and "Lady of Shalott", the various parts of the poem will be presented on the same day.

Written essay is due TWO days after presentation (e.g. present on Mon; submit essay on Wed)

GCM

Year 6 Lit Essay

2007-07-27T11:31:00.000+08:00

Qn: Discuss the ways in which Swift registers his disapproval of war and the barbarism it lets loose in Book 4 of Gulliver's voyage.

The usual stuff applies....

DEADLINE: 2 Aug Thur during lesson time

*Ameer, u can submit yours when you return....

GCM

Year 3 Lit Video Assignment

2007-07-25T11:05:00.000+08:00

-Choose any scene (or part thereof) except Act One of Macbeth
-video length abt 5 min
-group size: max 5; min 4
-Submission:
1) CD (label names)
2) contribution list outlining who did what (e.g. actor, scriptwriter, camera man, props contributor, etc...)

If you change your mind over the scene you're acting, let me know to avoid duplication!

DEADLINE: 7 Aug 2007 (Tue during lesson)

GCM

Year 3 Lit Empathic Essay

2007-07-25T11:00:00.000+08:00

Qn: Imagine you are Macbeth. Your wife has just managed to persuade you to kill Duncan at the end of Act One. Write your thoughts.

To do this well, you really got to psyche yourself and put yourself into the shoes of Macbeth and THINK as he thinks. Macbeth is a thinking man! remmeber all those soliloquies of his? You should have a fairly good grasp of the kind of person Macbeth is now based on what you have read in Act One. You may use materials that are in Act One.

The usual stuff applies...as well as:
-do on foolscap
-reflect name/class/qn
-about 400 words

DEADLINE: 31 Jul 2007 Tue (during lesson)

GCM

Year 5 Lit Poetry

2007-07-24T09:51:00.000+08:00

The poems to be studied under Part 4 of your assessment (Individual Oral Presentation) can be located at the following link:

http://www.freewebs.com/jgcm/yr5litpoems.doc

The link can also be found on the left-hand panel under 'Shadow Manual'.

One set will be printed for you for use in class; in the event if you misplace your copy, you can access the poems here....

GCM

Year 3 & 5 Lit File Submission

2007-07-23T09:58:00.000+08:00

Note the following for lit file submission:
-must contain EVERYTHING issued to you since beginning of year
-have a separate divider for each different text
-content page duly filled up and appearing right on top of other stuff
The condition of your filing will go towards the computation of your EFFORT Grade for the next half of term 3.

DEADLINE: 20 Aug 2007 (Mon)

GCM

Year 5&6 Lit Quiz

2007-07-20T12:39:00.000+08:00

To wrap up the text next week, there will be an impromptu quiz on Gulliver's Travels any time next week....

GCM

Year 6 Lit sample para

2007-07-19T15:23:00.000+08:00

Can u see the satirical effect?

In Book One, Swift registers his hatred of war via the war between Lilliput and Blefuscu. In the story, Lilliput wages war on Blefuscu as the two cannot agree on which end of the egg to break when eating it. By deliberately trivializing the reason over which the two countries go to war, Swift is trying to show us the foolishness and absurdity of war. This is especially so when we take into account the disproportionately high casualty rate of ‘thirty thousand of our best seamen and soldiers’. The fact that the Lilliputians readily sacrifice so many people to wage a ‘bloody war’ for ‘six and thirty moons’ over such a trivial cause is truly incredulous, even laughable. Swift’s attitude towards war could not be clearer.

Year 5 Lit Conferencing Schedule Sign-up

2007-07-16T12:20:00.000+08:00

I've placed the conferencing schedule outside on my door for you to sign up.
1) Ensure you know what time is the appt and be punctual! If you are absent or can’t make it in the last minute, get someone to inform me in advance!
2) A copy of your draft must reach me at least two days before the scheduled appt.
3) Come for the appt with:
a) a copy of your draft (other than the one you gave me earlier)
b) the pre-conferencing checklist issued earlier (properly filled up)
c) any specific comments or questions you have
4) Realise that I can only see you ONCE regarding your draft. So make sure you have gone through a few revisions of your drafts before your appt to see me. Prior to seeing me, go consult Mr Toyne or any teachers on your drafts first.

Deadline for final draft submission: 14 Sep 2007 (Fri)

GCM

Year 3 Lit Essay

2007-07-11T10:41:00.000+08:00

Macbeth Act 1 Scene 5 pg 67 to 75, line 15 to 74.
Paying close attention to the detail of the passage, show how Shakespeare establishes the character of Lady Macbeth and her relationship with her husband.

Apply the structure I outlined in class....about 400 words.

DEADLINE: Next Monday 16 Jul 2007 by 5 pm. (In view of Celefest, I've decided to defer the deadline to next Mon)

GCM

Year 6 Lit

2007-07-09T14:17:00.000+08:00

Based on today and coming Wed's class feedback on the jun hols Gulliver's essay, write a paragraph on any of the three books (1 to 3) in response to the same qn.

Just want some assurance that you know what the qn is actually asking for and that you know how to gear your response to address the qn directly and explicitly with regard to the workings of a satire. This will count towards your achievement grade, so make it a point to submit -- punctually!

The usual stuff applies......

DEADLINE: This Friday: 13 Jul 2007

GCM

Year 5 Lit

2007-07-04T15:22:00.000+08:00

Do check out this link for an excellent discussion on Swift's writing techniques and the background behind the writing of Gulliver's Travels. It's a very LONG lecture transcript, so scroll all the way down to the part with the heading "Gulliver's Travels" and read on from there....

http://www.mala.bc.ca/~johnstoi/introser/swift.htm

Check out the SparksNotes links on "Gulliver's Travels" in my blog shrine too....it's quite 'enlightening'....

GCM

Year 5 World Lit Assignment 1 Deadline

2007-07-03T11:57:00.000+08:00

Further to the above, the official deadline is 14 Sep 2007 (Fri). You need to see me about your draft for the official conferencing (which will be rostered in class) before you submit your final essay.

GCM

Year 3 Lit Project

2007-06-29T20:51:00.000+08:00

TASK:
Imagine you are a reporter in Glamis working for the local newspaper, “The Glamis Herald”. Using information given in Act 1 Scene 2, write a newspaper article for the front page of “The Glamis Herald”, reporting on the rebellion that Macbeth (The Thane of Glamis) was sent to quell.
-do on A4 size paper/cardboard
-include the name of the newspaper (“The Glamis Herald”) on top
-have an attention-grabbing headline for your article
-emphasise the role played by your local thane in the battle
-include, in direct speech, eye-witness’ quotes
-include imaginary views of people you interviewed over the event
-add pictures and other visual details to make the whole thing one full page
-reflect you name at the end of the article

DEADLINE: 11 July 2007 (Wed)

GCM

Year 5 Lit mini project

2007-06-27T14:04:00.000+08:00

The list is up on my door....check to see that your choice is properly reflected and that you are signed up for a writer. Amend accordingly if you change your mind.....mutual swaps are allowed but no two groups should embark on the same writer.....
See details in the previous blog entry....
Pass the word to the absentees....

GCM

Year 5&6 Lit mini Project

2007-06-26T11:07:00.000+08:00

hi folks....since we not doing presentation this time round, I've decided to replace it with a mini project. Details are in this link.

http://www.freewebs.com/jgcm/TASK%20lit%20project.doc

For year 6 students, you can choose either Measure for Measure OR Gulliver's Travels OR any literary poet/writer you like.

GCM

Year 6 Lit

2007-05-18T14:21:00.000+08:00

For the benefit of those who were not in class (as well as those who were in class but 'stoning') last session when I went through the essay feedback for your two assignments, pls click here:

http://www.freewebs.com/jgcm/GTessayfeedback.doc

Check out also the good essays in Swift's shrine.....

GCM

Year 5 Lit Holiday Assignment

2007-05-18T13:12:00.000+08:00

1)Work on your world lit assignment draft. Do get the greenlight from me first about your proposal and remember to abide by the guidelines given and avoid the pitfalls mentioned in the examiner's report, a copy of which will be given to you when you turn up for class next week.

2)Read up on James Joyce's "Dubliners" and Wilfred Owen's poetry if you are going over to Mr Toyne's class next term. If you are coming over to my class next term and you happen to read this, read up on Jonathan Swift's "Gulliver's Travels" (Book 4 ONLY).

GCM

Year 3 Lit Holiday Assignment

2007-05-18T13:06:00.000+08:00

Very Simple task! Just get hold of a copy of the "Macbeth" text from the school bookshop and read the entire play! Do not get a book from other publisher; buy only the one sold in the sch bookshop. If you can't get hold of the book in time, just go search for it online and read it off there.

Happi Holidaez.............:)

GCM

Year 6 Lit Holiday Assignment

2007-05-11T10:52:00.000+08:00

Qn: Discuss Swift's expression in "Gulliver's Travels" of a 'hatred of war and the barbarism it lets loose', showing how Swift uses satire to make his point. Use materials only from Gulliver's first three voyages.
(Hint: satire is about using wit to criticise or bring home a point)

The usual stuff applies....

DEADLINE: First day when you come back to school in term 3, by 5pm.

GCM

Year 5 Lit World Lit Proposal

2007-05-09T15:56:00.000+08:00

You need to ensure that your proposal (with your name indicated) reaches me or my pigeonhole by next Monday 14 May 5pm. Before you fill up the proposal, read up on the stuff that I passed you in class:
1)Proposal Form details
2)Crafting of title handout
3) Sample World Lit scripts

GCM

Year 6 GP Blogging

2007-05-04T10:45:00.000+08:00

DEADLINE: 11 May 2007 Fri by 5 pm
Duration: 16 Apr - 11 May
Number of entries expected: 8

GCM

Year 3 Lit Essay

2007-05-02T11:14:00.000+08:00

1) "Maybe there is a beast...what I mean is...maybe it's only us." Show with reference to relevant examples that Simon is right.
OR
2) In what ways is Piggy different from the rest of the characters in the "Lord of the Flies".

-Choose one of the questions above.
-word length about 500 words
-review my earlier handout on essay-writing before you embark on writing
-intro and concluding paras are compulsory!
-reflect name/class/date/qn on your script

DEADLINE: 8 MAy 2007 Tue

GCM

Year 6 Lit Essay

2007-04-30T10:30:00.000+08:00

Qn: As the proverbial saying goes, "size matters". How true is this in the course of your reading of Gulliver's voyage to Lilliput and Brobdingnag?

Deadline: 7 May 2007 (Mon) by 5pm.

GCM

Year 6 GP

2007-04-20T12:24:00.000+08:00

hi pple,
two pieces of work here:

1) newspaper article presentation (due next Tue)
same as your blog, except that you have to present to class. Use the format of pros-cons, problem-solution or WHY to 'attack' the article.

2)full-length essay (due next Fri)
choose one from the list given....It's the same paper as the one you did last Nov. Choose a different qn from the one you attempted last year, and consult the points in the examiner's report given to you.....

GCM

Year 3 Lit Quiz

2007-04-20T10:49:00.000+08:00

Other than your file check deadline (see earlier post), take note also that your next and last LOTF quiz will be:
-chapter 7-12
-anytime in the week 7-11 May

GCM

Year 3&5 File Check

2007-04-16T14:24:00.000+08:00

File Check DEADLINE: 30 Apr 2007 (Mon). The grade will go towards part of your Effort Grade for the next half term. Spelt out below are what I'll be looking out for:

Year 3:
-ACS International Ring File reflecting the word “Literature”
-Content page reflecting marked assignments (print from blog is lost)
-All marked assignments (essays, quizzes, etc.) and handouts to be filed in properly
-Check that only IB Lit stuff are filed in
-reflect name and class

Year 5:
-ACS International Ring File reflecting the word “Literature”
-Content page reflecting marked assignments (print from blog if lost)
-All marked assignments (essays, quizzes, etc.) and handouts to be filed in properly under the relevant dividers
-At least four file dividers (properly labeled) demarcating separate sections for the four texts you’ve studied thus far, and one section for Miscellaneous IB stuff
-Check that only IB Lit stuff are filed in
-reflect name and class

GCM

Year 5 Lit Essay Feedback

2007-04-11T10:52:00.000+08:00

As a feedback to your comparative essay assignment, take a peek at some of the better scripts from your classmates...I've uploaded 3... visit the LWFC Shrine to access them and hopefully, receive 'enlightenment'!

GCM

Year 5 Lit: M4M Post-Reading Quiz

2007-04-09T22:35:00.000+08:00

There will be a post-reading quiz on the whole play of "Measure for Measure" anytime within the next two weeks. So get yourself ready......

GCM

Year 5 Lit: Oral Commentary for “Measure For Measure”

2007-04-09T22:32:00.000+08:00

1) For your presentation his half term, it will be individual work, and you will be given TWO separate grades, one for your oral presentation (10-15 min) and one for your written report submission.
2) You need only present your analysis portion in your oral presentation, i.e. exclude the summary part. But the written report will contain your summary AND analysis portion, as well as class contribution bits….
3) To help prepare for your presentation, read up on the Oral Commentary link under the IB Stuff hyperlink, as well as “The Invisible Hand” under the Misc hyperlink. Read also the handouts which I have zapped for you as well as those stuff under the Measure for Measure links…..
4) Make sure you know which scene (or part thereof) you’re allocated and when you’re supposed to present. We’re adhering to a one presentation per period pacing. So count yourself…..

GCM

Year 5 Lit Essay

2007-03-31T18:11:00.000+08:00

Qn: Compare and contrast the character of Tita with either Shukhov and/or Nora.

NB:
-either write or type
-reflect name/class/date AND qn
-word length: about 500 words
-research, but do NOT plagiarise
-refer GCM Assessment Guidelines under Misc. hyperlink
-DEADLINE: 9 Apr 2007 (Mon) before 5pm

GCM

Year 6 GP

2007-03-31T18:03:00.000+08:00

1) Those who have yet to submit your TV essay outline, esp the absentees last fri, do remember to do so on Mon....just pop it into my pigeon hole. If you have been absent, get the stuff given out in class from Bryan.

2)Another piece of work is due on Tue 3 Apr when I see you in class. Compre exercise. Do all the qns on foolscap and staple together with qn paper. The latter can be got from Bryan if you were absent on Fri.

3)Blogs due soon...check details in an earlier posting...

GCM

Year 6 Lit Weekend WOW!

2007-03-28T12:53:00.000+08:00

Go to the Gulliver's link in my blog and click the first link on this lecture given by a professor. If you don't want to read the entire lecture, you can start from the Heading: The Tory Satirists (something like that, I think) and read all the way to the end. Then write me a reflection of about 400-500 words. Do NOT just give a rehash of what he said. Tell me what you think or feel about it.

DEADLINE: Next Mon 2 Apr by 5pm

GCM

Yr 6 GP

2007-03-27T13:41:00.000+08:00

Two pieces of work due this coming Fri (30 Mar) in class at 1115hrs:
1) Essay outline:
"Give the people what they want." Should this be the basis for television programming?

2) Summary exercise on TV passage given:
Qn: With reference to Passage B, summarize in two paragraphs the arguments for and against the invention of TV.

GCM

Yr 6 GP Blog Deadline

2007-03-27T13:36:00.000+08:00

Deadline for your next blog inspection is 10 Apr 2007 (Tue) 5pm.
I'll be checking from duration Week beginning 26 Feb to Week beginning 9 Apr. You should have minimum 12 entries.

GCM

Yr 5&6 Lit

2007-03-26T11:42:00.000+08:00

Hi pple,

There's a new essay for your reading on "Measure for Measure" on the Duke's characterisation.....Go to the M4M link to retrieve....

GCM