Reconstructing Our Social Memory

Medisave in Singapore

2010-06-23T02:17:00.003+08:00

Medisave in Singapore Part 2

2010-06-23T00:10:00.000+08:00

The Climb To The End...

2009-09-02T23:13:00.002+08:00

2 Days to Prelims

2009-08-12T01:49:00.005+08:00

Hi Sec 4s,

With just two days more to your Social Studies paper, all I can do is wish the best of luck in your preparation.

Make sure that you revise all the themes for both Sec 3 & 4 syllabus. Please do not spot and study 1 or 2 chapters. Instead try prepare for at least 4 chapters :)

Best of luck,
Mr Syed

SBQ Revision - Courtesy of Derrick 4A1

2009-07-03T17:09:00.002+08:00

SBQ Notes for Social Studies

View more documents from btvssmedia.

Velcum!

2009-06-30T23:53:00.015+08:00

Velcum 3E1, 3E2 & 3E3 to my Social Studies abode!

A tree is a tree, no matter how you look at it!

However one man's terrorist, is another man's freedom fighter!

I apologise if by any means I've given this idea that Social Studies is a simplified discipline - the problem when dealing with a Humanities subject is that, things can never be simplified as we'd love them to be (",)

Especially with Social Studies, where one endeavour to deal and make meaning with differing perspectives and multiple viewpoints. Not withstanding the biases that may be trapped between the sources - at times, it is not enough to open up your eyes to read the sources, but you've got to even read between the lines to decipher the tone and purpose... oh no!!!

Well, I'm sure at this juncture, most of you may be feeling rather low and/or perhaps cheated by what you've heard in class earlier today... muahahaha... Well, fret not, I was just pulling your leg ----> forgive me for my lameness, it's already twenty minutes past midnight and I'm still up preparing materials for my Sec 4NA who are probably asleep by now :)

Well anyhow, once again, a huge welcome to you newcomers! This blog has officially died out as my Sec 4s are busy preparing for their 'N' Levels; hence having my 3 new classes in is indeed a comforting note to remind me of the usefulness of this blog, heh!

You may save this web address under your 'favourites' so that if you have the time, you can check it out for regular updates! Be prepared though for it to go on a hiatus once in a while especially when I'm running the bullet train, usually during the peak period such as the Common test and exams period. But even when there are no blog updates, the 'voices of society' & news engine portals at the side bars offers interesting read :)

Finally, the tagboard is for your use - to ask and reply queries, to motivate and cheer your peers especially nearing the exams. Only caution - please use it with your utmost discretion; be tactful in your comments and do not abuse this priviledge that we share!

And with that Sec 3s - lets buckle up and join me as we attempt to reconstruct a new shared memory! Gute nacht!

Your navigator,
Mr Syed

Social Studies Portal

2009-05-15T09:30:00.000+08:00

Hi students,

Just to share on a new SS portal - a lot of interesting facts that are updated in here: http://olevelsocialstudies.blogspot.com/

Happy reading,
Mr Syed

a special gesture...

2009-05-05T22:01:00.001+08:00

Thanks for writing this ***** because it shows that you care.

Will keep it confidential as requested :)

* to that special someone, your gesture goes a long way. i will try to last as long as the heart can take me; to the point that my presence is numb...

Good Luck - Mid Year Exams 2009

2009-05-02T21:30:00.007+08:00

Hi all,

Most of you have been wondering how to prepare for the Mid-year exams?

You will be sitting for the actual paper similar to your N Levels Social Studies exam in less than 4 months time :)

There will be TWO sections for this paper:

Section A will be on SBQ (25m) and Section B will be on SEQ (25m).
For Section A, you have no choice and must answer all 4 SBQ testing all the different source-based skills.
For Section B, you will choose ONE out of THREE questions, each question divided into TWO parts. You have to answer both parts.
Total duration for the paper will be 1hr 30min (90 min). Please plan your time well as you may find yourself having not have enough time.

The strategy to score well is to attempt the paper in the following manner:

1. SEQ (Attempt Part A) : 12m - Take 20 min

2. SBQ (Read all sources & Background Information) - Take 8 min

3. SBQ (All 4 questions) : 25 m - Take 42 min

4. SEQ (Attempt Part B) : 13m - Take 20 min

If you are intending to revise for the SEQ, please focus on the Sec 3 topics:

(a) Governance - Chapter 2 (Sec 3 Textbook)
(b) Healthcare - Chapter 3 (Sec 3 Textbook)
(c) Deterrence & Diplomacy - Chapter 6 (Sec 3 Textbook)

Hope you've started your revision! Work really hard if you're aiming to go for your Sec 5 O Levels!

Cheers,
Mr Syed

Congratulations Prize Winners!

2009-04-19T18:58:00.004+08:00

For the journey is just as important as its destination.

Each and everyone of you deserved to celebrate for there is a strong reason to do that.

This small recognition from the school is meant to inspire all of you to greater heights! Go grab all the opportunities out there; the World is at your feet!

Revision Chapters (Mid Year Exam)

2009-04-19T18:15:00.002+08:00

Hi all, based on the survey conducted for revision, most of you have chosen the following topics:

Sec 3 Chap 2: Governance in Singapore
16 (50%)

Sec 3 Chap 3: Healthcare in Britain & Singapore
26 (81%)

Sec 3 Chap 4: Conflict in Sri Lanka & Northern Ireland
12 (37%)

Sec 3 Chap 5: Bonding in Multi-ethnic Singapore
10 (31%)

Sec 3 Chap 6: Deterrence & Diplomacy
9 (28%)

Sec 4 Chap 2: Sustaining Economic Development & Globalisation
2 (6%)

And so, I will be doing Mid-Year revision beginning with the chapters on Healthcare & Governance as soon as we complete SEQ revision on Singapore's Strategies for Globalisation.

Cheers,
Mr Syed

Crossroads

2009-04-05T12:25:00.003+08:00

Sometimes, we end up at a crossroad; not knowing which direction to turn.

While the road less travelled presents a daunting feel, it is often the one that leads to a sweeter success.

One should not live to regret - they're just too lethal.

Have a destiny in mind and allow your soul to bring you to wherever it takes you...

I realised this has nothing to do with Social Studies. On a brighter note, good luck for the upcoming Common Test!

Your SS Teacher,
Mr Syed

Social Studies Remedial - 02 Apr 2009 (Thurs)

2009-03-31T22:03:00.000+08:00

Hi 4A1 - 4A3,

Social Studies Remedial on 02nd April is NOT compulsory! Instead if you're interested to improve, you can sign up and come for it.

It will be conducted either @ Dance Studio (Level 3) or Maths Room (Level 4) from 2.30pm - 3.30pm.

The focus is of the remedial is to practise Source-Based questions on RELIABILITY & USEFULNESS.

Break a leg,
Mr Syed

Important Updates

2009-03-11T22:15:00.004+08:00

Hi students,

Here are some important announcement:

1. Please submit your files (with updated contents page) as well as your notebook to your SS rep by Thurs, 12 Mar 09.

2. There is no SS Remedial on Thurs (12 Mar 09) for all my classes because I have to attend a Social Studies briefing at MOE Auditorium.

3. As promised, the first two Remediation Clinics is now open! If you are interested, hurry to fill up your name in the file inside my pigeon hole. Only applicable to the first 30 names!

Session 1: Reliability Clinic
Date: 16 Mar 2009 (Mon)
Time: 1030 am - 12pm
Venue: Dance Studio

Session 2: Usefulness Clinic
Date: 16 Mar 2009 (Mon)
Time: 1pm - 2.30pm
Venue: Dance Studio

That's all folks! Have a good break :)

Mr Syed

Project Presentation - The "Noose" Talkshow

2009-02-27T04:15:00.004+08:00

Hi, just in case you're wondering how to do your presentation, here are some samples. Before you click to watch these videos, don't forget to pause the background music.

1. The Noose - World Economic Recession

2. The Noose - University Orientation Games

3. The Noose - Expatriates in Singapore

4. The Noose - F1 Race

Social Studies Project - 20%

2009-02-24T19:26:00.008+08:00

Hi 4A1, 4A2 & 4A3,

It's been a long time since I posted an update on the blog. I hope everyone has got into the gear of things and ready to start your engine all the way till end of October this year!

Anyway, in this post, I hope to brief all of you about some administrative details with regards to your Social Studies Project (Group) for the topic on Sustaining Economic Development for the Globalising World (Sec 4 Syllabus, Chapter 2).

First and foremost, the breakdown of the 20% is as such:

1. Verbal Presentation (following the "Noose Talkshow" format) - 5%

2. Project Booklet (minimum 10 coloured pages) - 10%

3. Flip Charts/Presentation Aids (at least 2 pieces, to be used during talkshow) - 5%

This brings me to the most important thing which is the Due Date: 04 Mar 2009 (Next Wednesday). All groups must submit their Project Booklet on this date!

Since for this week, I will be missing 4 periods (with 4A1) and 2 periods each (with 4A2 & 4A3) plus I'm cancelling Thursday Remedial this week (26 Feb 09), this will give each class sufficient time to complete your research and to compile your project together. Hence, I will not give any extra extension to the submission date. If I do not get your project by 04th Mar 09, your group grade will be lowered 5% each day.

Next, I will explain my expectations for each of the project:

(a) Verbal Presentation - 5%
- Must be informative and include details related to the topic/country that you're presenting.
- Presenters must be fluent and they must know the content that they will be delivering.
- Extra points will be given for groups who are creative and dress their presenters up following the "Noose Talkshow" format.

(b) Project Booklet - 10%
- This is the most important and the highest component.
- The booklet must be typed and content must show that the group has researched outside their textbooks for e.g. Internet sites and reference books.
- Booklet should include pictures, diagrams, maps or statistics to help with the explanation of the content.
- White papers will NOT be accepted, groups should use coloured papers and once complete, they can either bind it or tie a ribbon around the project.
- The booklet must be a minimum of 10 pages and please include all the references/sources in which the information have been gathered from.
- Finally, please do NOT plagiarise (meaning you take everything from Internet/reference books) and paste exactly to your project. That will get you a Zero straight away.

(c) Flip Charts/Presentation Aids - 5%
- Each group must do at at least be two flip charts.
- Should not consist of too many words but rather include pictures, diagrams, mind maps, statistics any any other things that can help the presenters during their "Noose Talkshow".
- Only to be submitted after the groups have presented their talkshow.

Final advice - You have more than a week to complete this, so please plan your time wisely. Also, there are around 7-9 members for each team, hence you can separate the workload so that each student concentrate on a certain portion before you combine everything together.

Finally, attached in the post below is the compiled groupings for all the classes.

Good luck!
Mr Syed

Social Studies Project Grouping

2009-02-24T19:15:00.003+08:00

Hi all, here are the confirmed groupings for each class. Click on it to see a clearer image.

Cheers,
Mr Syed

Notes: Ways Singapore Practices Diplomacy

2009-02-01T10:14:00.008+08:00

As promised, here are the ways that Singapore practice diplomacy:

Introduction
Diplomacy is the way in which countries manage or conduct relations with one another – with the aim to resolve conflicting interests in a peaceful manner. Singapore practises three types of diplomatic relations, namely bilateral relations, regional relations and international relations to promote common interests and to resolve conflicts in a peaceful manner.

1. Bilateral Relations
One way in which Singapore maintains diplomacy is by managing bilateral relations.

Singapore has been actively involved in expanding bilateral relationships with many countries since its independence. With bilateral relations, Singapore was able to further promote political, economic and cultural ties with neighbouring countries like Malaysia and Indonesia. For example, in 2004, Singapore sent humanitarian aid to Aceh, a province in Indonesia, when it was hit by a massive earthquake and tsunami. In doing so, it has helped Singapore to gain friendship, world recognition and respect from Indonesia.

Hence, bilateral relations are important because it involves Singapore directly with another country. In many ways, this is more beneficial as Singapore can liaise directly with them since it is easier for both countries to negotiate and work out some form of understanding. Through bilateral relations, Singapore was able to speed up its economic and social development.

2. Regional Relations
The second way in which Singapore maintains diplomacy is by managing regional relations.

By being a member of Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), Singapore actively tries to maintain peace and prosperity in Southeast Asia. It has taken on a leadership role in the ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF), which provides opportunities for ASEAN and other countries such as USA, China and Japan to discuss important issues. Besides providing opportunities for member countries to interact and cooperate to promote greater understanding, ASEAN also provide a platform for members to discuss and resolve differences peacefully. The political stability and security in the region will in turn attract foreign investment and lead to greater economic growth for all.

Being such a small country, the impact of joining ASEAN as a member allows Singapore to benefit and contributes to regional development. Through ASEAN, Singapore has forged better relations with its neighbouring countries.

3. International Relations
The final way in which Singapore maintains diplomacy is by managing international relations.

Singapore was admitted as the 117th United Nations (UN) member on 21 September 1965. This membership was an important moment for Singapore. This membership allowed Singapore to gain recognition as a sovereign state and to receive help from them for national development. As a member of the UN, Singapore was elected by the UN General Assembly to serve as a non-permanent Security Council member for two years from 2001 to 2002. The main role of the Security Council is to maintain international peace and security. The election to the council showed the confidence member countries have in Singapore as well as Singapore’s commitment to the UN.

As a member of UN, Singapore’s national security will be further protected as UN’s main mission is to maintain world peace and security. Membership in the UN allowed Singapore to gain recognition as a sovereign state, and thereby indirectly contributes to its in dependence and territorial integrity. It also enables Singapore to develop friendship with other nations.

Conclusion
Managing bilateral relations is the most important type of diplomatic relations for Singapore. Weak bilateral ties will inevitably affect regional ties if a country has strained relations with another country in the same regional grouping. Similarly if a country does not make the effort to maintain good bilateral relations with other countries in the world, it is unlikely to be able to sustain and enjoy good international relations even if it is a member of the UN.

OR

Managing international relations is a better way for Singapore to manage her national security. As a small and vulnerable country, we need a large and powerful organisation that is respected and trusted to mediate and also perform the role as a governing body. That is why we need to be a member of the UN and also to be an active member to let people know that we cannot be ‘bullied’. That explains why Singapore sat on the prestigious UN Security Council for a short stint. Professor Tommy Koh has also contributed many assignments to the UN. Once this is established, Singapore can then start to work with her neighbours either through ASEAN or as an independent country having bilateral relations with other countries.

Weighing The Conflict?

2009-01-18T21:45:00.003+08:00

Hi all,

Congrats to all! We've covered the three types of conflicts thoroughly:

Conflict over Scarce Resources
Conflict over Ideological Differences
Conflict over Territories

Which do you think is the main cause of disagreement among countries?

Share your views and state the reasons behind your choices...

Cheers,
Mr Syed

Academic Alert!

2009-01-17T21:45:00.001+08:00

Hi all,

Just something to share... Especially for those taking portfolio subjects...

Best,

Mr Syed

A New Beginning...

2009-01-02T21:15:00.009+08:00

i agreed, it's been long... and i still miss typing out 3A2...except that it's no longer valid for you reading it...

if you're expecting this post to be a cheesy narration of 2008, nah... or perhaps sharing of regrets? hmmm, not exactly... regrets are way too lethal! in our lives, we all had too many to deal with, so let's forgive and forget whatever happened in last year's thrombosis.

in the dawn of 2008, we got tired of everything including the consequences of our actions. now as we watch the dusk of 2009 appearing, lets start a new beginning...

if you're onboard taking this journey, please hang on tight and don't ever let go! we're starting the engine but do not worry - we'll go slow...

Cheer Up :)

2008-10-19T13:00:00.001+08:00

people say miracles do happen... but this definitely won't happen during our social studies paper this Tue... haha

my best wishes to every single one of you. you'll be amazed by what your heart and mind can do if you're set for something!

Mr Syed

End-of-Year Revision!

2008-10-12T14:45:00.009+08:00

Hi 3E4 & 3A2,

I hope you have started on your revision. Please start memorising the facts and information from Chapter 5: Bonding Singapore.

For Sec 3E4,
Please be reminded that I'm going to conduct Class Remedial on Monday, 13 Oct 2008 @ 2-3pm at AVA Room. Please come prepared; make sure you revise on Managing Ethnic Diversity.

For Sec 3A2,
Make sure you memorise on Building National Identity. Those students who wants to have group consultation, be in groups of 4 and arrange with me when to meet.

That's all folks! Have fun revising :)

Mr Syed

Social Studies Class Test - Important!

2008-09-13T01:15:00.007+08:00

Hi students,

As promised, here are some updates for the upcoming class test. The schedules for both my classes are as follow:

Sec 3E4 - Mon, 15 Sep 2008 @ 11.30am - 12.00pm

Sec 3A2 - Tue, 16 Sep 2008 @ 8.30am - 9.00am

The test will just be one Structured Essay Question (SEQ) and its total will be 12 marks.

Please don't forget to revise on Northern Ireland conflict. You may wish to focus on the factors/reasons contributing to the conflict.

Tips: Remember to answer SEQ in five paragraphs. For instance, if the question ask you to weigh which factors more important:

1st para - State given factor as well as other two factors

2nd para - Describe & Explain the given factor

3rd para - Describe & Explain another factor

4th para - Describe & Explain another factor

5th para - Explain why one factor is more important than the other OR Explain that no one single factor is more important than the other as they are all equally important in contributing towards the conflict.

Finally, you may ask... Mr Syed, what is the difference between Describe & Explain? How do we make sure that our answers reach the Explanation part?

Look at this example, if the question ask: Why is Social Studies lessons exciting?

If you merely Describe, your answer will be:

Social Studies is fun because before the start of each chapter, students get a chance to play a game and watch video as a form of teaser activities. These allow students to start a new chapter with some knowledge of the larger theme. On top of that, they are taught on content mastery through interactive learning such as cooperative work and student-centred activities. The teacher will then proceed on to skills-based teaching where he shares the strategies to tackle SBQ and SEQ based on case studies relevant to the subject content. Finally, remediation and the subject blog function as reinforcement for students to retain the information that was taught to them. Hence, this make Social Studies lessons interesting.

Unfortunately, this answer will only get you an L3 (between 4m to 6m out of a total of 12m)

So how can we make sure that our answers reach Explanation part?

Social Studies is fun because before the start of each chapter, students get a chance to play a game and watch video as a form of teaser activities. These allow students to start a new chapter with some knowledge of the larger theme. On top of that, they are taught on content mastery through interactive learning such as cooperative work and student-centred activities. The teacher will then proceed on to skills-based teaching where he shares the strategies to tackle SBQ and SEQ based on case studies relevant to the subject content. Finally, remediation and the subject blog function as reinforcement for students to retain the information that was taught to them. By ensuring that the students go through a rigorous learning, the subject is taught to students at a manageable pace and yet enthuses them to become critical thinkers. Hence, students could relate to the content being taught to them resulting them to enjoy each lesson and increasing their interest level towards the subject.

Are you clearer now? If you are, please hit your textbook and notebook now.

If you have any enquiry, I am just a tagboard away. Please submit your query and I will be there to assist whenever I can. Please help to inform all your friends to read this posting as it is extremely important!

Hoping for the best,
Mr Syed

Local Attractions Get the Nod

2008-09-10T06:00:00.004+08:00

SINGAPORE : Four tourist attractions from Singapore have received a 3—star rating from Michelin, the renowned French lifestyle surveyors.

Raffles Hotel, Botanic Gardens, Night Safari and the Singapore Zoological Gardens now join the ranks of famous international attractions like the Paris Eiffel Tower and New York Empire State Building, in having a 3—star Michelin rating.

Michelin, which has been publishing travel guides since 1900, only picked 25 countries in the world to feature.

And it is the first time that Michelin is publishing a travel guide on Singapore. The other Asian countries with this honour are China, Japan and Thailand.

Christian Delhaye, president, Worldwide Strategic Business Unit, Michelin Maps and Guides, said: "The Europeans are very interested in Singapore as a destination, it’s an entry door to the Asian world."

To rank the sites, writers anonymously visited the attractions and assessed them according to criteria such as authenticity, aesthetics, service quality and convenience.

One out of every five visitors to Singapore consults a guidebook before they arrive.

Michelin sold 1.5 million guidebooks worldwide last year and the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) hopes that the Singapore edition will boost tourism arrival numbers.

Close to 1.3 million Europeans visited Singapore last year. Double—digit growth rates were seen in tourist arrivals from Spain, Russia, Denmark and France.

The STB believes that the Michelin guide will not only help market Singapore to a Western audience, but to other Asian travellers as well.

Margaret Teo, assistant chief executive (leisure), Singapore Tourism Board, added: "Michelin intends to produce a pocket—sized version of the guide in Chinese, and that will be available for sale in China; and there is also a must—see guide, made available, targeting the India market.

"So with these two markets as one of our key source markets, I think that will value add to the experience of tourists from India and China."

Singapore aims to attract 17 million visitor arrivals and generate S$30 billion in tourism receipts by 2015.

— CNA/ms/Sunday, September 7

Social Studies Retest (Thurs, 11th Sept 08)

2008-09-09T05:45:00.004+08:00

To all 3A2 & 3E4 students,

For those who have failed their SS common test, you are required to sit for a compulsory retest this Thurs (11th Sept 08) @ 2.15pm at 3A2 classroom.

Please make sure that you revise thoroughly your Common test scripts before sitting for the test. Read through the corrections that I've gone through in class :)

Please spread the word around to all those who failed. The retest is COMPULSORY!

Best,
Mr Syed

Not All 6 New ERP Gantries Need to be Switched on in November

2008-09-07T09:45:00.008+08:00

SINGAPORE : Not all of the six new Electronic Road Pricing (ERP) gantries need to be switched on in November. Transport Minister Raymond Lim offered this little nugget of hope to motorists at a talk to the Press Club on Friday.

ERP was an obvious hot topic at the talk, especially as it comes after rates went up at about half of all gantries in the central business and shopping areas, while five new gantries along the Singapore River were added in July.

Explaining the rationale, the minister said such road pricing was a measure of last resort.

He said: "We recognise that such system—wide changes will have a significant impact on people’s lives. So let’s roll it out in phases, and as we roll it out in phases, we hope we might end up doing much less than we have to."

He added that since the July changes, speeds have picked up on many of these roads.

Thus, not all six new gantries that the Land Transport Authority had previously announced would be switched on in November, may have to become operational.

These are the ones along Serangoon Road, Commonwealth Avenue, Jalan Bukit Merah, Alexandra Road, AYE—westbound near Alexandra Road and PIE—westbound near Eunos.

There was also a nugget of good news for public transport commuters — bus passengers may get higher transfer rebates. Details are expected to be announced next week.

This means the majority of bus passengers who make one or more transfers stand to benefit.

During question time, Mr Lim was asked if fares for children could be waived, in light of Singapore’s family—friendly thrust.

The answer was that it boiled down to a question of government intervention and cross—subsidies — a path it is not likely to take.

— CNA/ms/Sunday, September 7

Sentosa to Launch New Attractions in 2009

2008-09-07T06:45:00.001+08:00

SINGAPORE : Sentosa is aiming to bring in the crowds with a number of new tourist attractions next year.

Among the new attractions that will be open in the first quarter of next year is a water sports centre, with a fleet of charter boats.

Also in the pipeline is a S$15 million simulated wave surfing facility, where surfers can ride a 10—foot barrelling wave.

Indoor sky diving will be offered in the second quarter.

Sentosa Leisure Group’s new CEO, Mike Barclay, expects the new attractions and the opening of the integrated resort to double the number of visitors annually.

He said: "In terms of the number of guests we have coming to the island, we are currently about 6.1 million, 6.2 million a year. We see that increasing to as high as 15 million by the year 2015.

"The Resorts World at Sentosa is coming on line at 2010 and we will be progressively opening, and that itself is going to attract 9 million, 10 million (visitors) a year."

— CNA/ms/Sunday, September 7

Information on SS Make-Up Lesson

2008-09-02T18:45:00.003+08:00

Hi all, hope your holidays have been great so far :)

Anyway, I've dedided to post some information to prepare you for Thursday's make-up lesson.

Please bring along your Social Studies textbook, notebook and file (which include common test & remedial exercises). Do retrieve them from your class in case you had left them there (but it should not be the case as I've already reminded all of you to bring them home).

During the lesson, we will be covering the following:

1. SS Common Test (Sri Lankan Conflict)
2. SS Remedial (Bloody Sunday)
3. Final Recap on Northern Ireland (Source-based work)
4. Teaser activities on 'Bonding Singapore' (Chap 5)

Finally, I cannot emphasize the importance of your attendance. Do come prepared by reading your textbook - give me a chance to help you score better for your Social Studies :)

Mr Syed

Social Studies Lesson on 04th September 2008

2008-08-31T23:00:00.002+08:00

Dear students,

Do not forget to attend the extra lesson in school on the 04th Sep 2008 (Thursday).

For 3A2 students
9.00am to 11.00am
AVA Room

For 3E4 students
11.30am to 1.30pm
AVA Room

Attendance for this lesson is compulsory. Students who missed the lesson must present MC or valid letter signed by parents.

Mr Syed

3E4 Lesson Observation - Oman Guests & Principal

2008-08-23T08:25:00.000+08:00

Hi 3E4,

As spoken, we will be hosting some guests from Oman (Principals as well as officers from their Ministry of Education) during this Monday's lesson (25th Aug 2008) at 11.30 - 12.30pm. The lesson will be conducted at the AVA room.

Please make sure you complete the group mind-map (mahjong paper) that you were required to do last week. All groups must ensure that their work is of good quality for the guests to see :)

For the lesson, please do not delay and assemble straight outside the AVA room at 11 am sharp with your mind map (mahjong paper), textbook and pencil cases. There is no need to bring your file for that lesson. Leave your files in the cupboard.

Please spread the word around.

Peace out,
Mr Syed

SS Common Test - Retest (Failures)

2008-08-19T22:00:00.003+08:00

Hi 3E4 & 3A2,

The Humanities Department has decided that there will be a retest for those who scored 12 marks and below for the recent Social Studies Common Test.

Don't be too upset; instead take this as an extra practice for you to achieve higher and better marks for the final exams!

In case you're wondering how tough the retest will be - my advice is just revise the common test that I've returned you; it will help you a lot :)

Best,
Mr Syed

3 Consequences of Northern Ireland Conflict (Reg No. 32-41)

2008-08-13T00:30:00.001+08:00

For your compulsory online posting:

Following your register no, students are to research on each of the three consequences (aftermath) of the Northern Ireland Conflict. They are to do an online research and submit at least 3 paragraphs on one consequences they're assigned to:

Reg 32-35: Political consequences
Reg 36-38: Economic consequences
Reg 39-41: Social consequences

Deadline: Friday (Aug 15) by 4pm sharp.

Your posting will be graded!

Mr Syed

Causes & Consequences of Bloody Sunday (Reg No. 22-31)

2008-08-13T00:15:00.002+08:00

For your compulsory online posting:

Following your register no, students are to research on 'Bloody Sunday' which is a major case study in the Northern Ireland Conflict. They are to do an online research and submit at least 3 paragraphs to describe and analyse the event:

Reg 22- 26: Causes of Bloody Sunday
Reg 27-31: Consequences of Bloody Sunday

Deadline: Friday (Aug 15) by 4pm sharp.

Your posting will be graded!

Mr Syed

5 Causes of Northern Ireland Conflict (Reg No. 01-21)

2008-08-13T00:00:00.002+08:00

For your compulsory online posting:

Following your register no, students are to research on each of the five causes of the Northern Ireland Conflict. They are to do an online research and submit at least 3 paragraphs on one cause they're assigned to:

Reg 01-05: Divided loyalties
Reg 06-09: Unequal allocation of housing
Reg 10-13: Unequal employment opportunities
Reg 14-17: Lack of voting rights
Reg 18-21: Lack of opportunities for social interaction

Deadline: Friday (Aug 15) by 4pm sharp.

Your posting will be graded!

Mr Syed

Social Studies Common Test - 01 Aug 2008 (Fri)

2008-07-28T12:00:00.001+08:00

Hi students,

For this Friday's common test, you will be tested on Sri Lanka's case study.

There will be 2 parts to the test - the first part is source-based questions and second part is a structured essay question.

You need to read everything on Sri Lanka which include:

1. Background of Sri Lanka
2. Causes of Sri Lanka conflict - Very Important
3. Consequences of Sri Lanka conflict - Very Important

Please study hard for the common test! Go for your A1 :)

Best of luck,
Mr Syed

Background of Northern Ireland Conflict

2008-07-27T15:00:00.001+08:00

Hi students,

As promised, this week we will be moving on to the Northern Ireland conflict.

Once you have read the textbook on the background of the conflict, please provide details of how and why the relationship between the Catholics & Protestants was not cordial (friendly)?

Cheers,
Mr Syed

Weighing All the Consequences

2008-07-19T07:45:00.001+08:00

Hi 3A2 and 3E4,

Now that we are done with the causes and consequences of the Sri Lankan conflict, we will be moving to Northern Ireland next :)

But before that, please answer this question:

Among the three consequences of the Sri Lankan conflict, which is the most serious consequence? Explain why?

Cheers,
Mr Syed

Consequences of Sinhalese-Tamil Conflict

2008-07-12T22:00:00.001+08:00

Hi all,

I have some great news to share! We have finished on the first part of Chapter 4 - the causes behind the Sinhalese-Tamil conflict. Well done!

For the next part, can anyone share on the consequences of the Sinhalese-Tamil conflict (outcome or aftermath of the conflict)?

A tip for all, these consequences can be divided into Political, Economic and Social (PES) consequences.

Good luck!

Mr Syed

Causes of Sri Lankan Conflict

2008-07-03T13:45:00.009+08:00

Hi students,

Among the four causes that contribute to the Sri Lankan conflict, which do you think is the MOST important? Explain why?

Best wishes,

Mr Syed

Sri Lankan Conflict

2008-07-01T00:02:00.002+08:00

Hello 3E4 and 3A2

To get our discussion running, what are the causes (with clear elaborations) that led to the Sri Lankan conflict - between the Tamils and the Sinhalese?

Mr Syed

Issues of Racism & Racial Pride

2008-06-23T23:30:00.004+08:00

Hi 3E4 & 3A2...

Hope you had a great break! Welcome back to a new semester :)

To start off our Social Studies lesson, I have screened the movie 'Freedom Writers' (based on a true story). This film deals with issues of racism and racial pride; a central theme which we will discuss in Chapter 4 :Conflicts in Multi-Ethnic Societies.

While reflecting on this movie, I want you to consider these few points:

1. Why is race so important for the students at Wilson High School?

2. What are some of the causes of the racial conflict in the school and how did this impact the students?

I wish to hear your comments. Please post them by clicking on comments link at the bottom of this post.

Remember to write your name and class so that I can monitor your participation :)

Mr Syed

Freedom Writers

2008-06-23T22:30:00.002+08:00

Hilary Swank stars in this gripping story of inner city kids raised on drive - by shootings and hard-core attitude - and the teacher who gives them the one thing they need most: a voice of their own. Dropped into the free-fire zone of a school torn by violence and racial tension, teacher Erin Gruwell battles an uncaring system in a fight to make the classroom matter in her students lives. Now, telling their own stories, and hearing the stories of others, a group of supposedly "unteachable" teens will discover the power of tolerence, reclaim their shattered lives and change their world.