National Singapore Museum

This trip to the National Singapore Museum was truely enlightening. I helped me speculate how people lived in Singapore many years ago. The many artefacts on display were vey unique and had years of authentic history embedded in them. I was also quite amazed on how people dressewd and what they ate in the past.

EARTH HOUR!

During Earth Hour, I switched off all the lights and most of the other electrical appliances. Through this, I learnt to value our natural resources more. It quite boring though, as I had nothing to do with the television switvhed off. I simply sat on the sofa like a couch potatoe with nothing to do.

AFTER CLASS TEST 1

As said, it is not the end of the world and the true test is yet to come. Although I had expected more from myself and am rather disappointed now, I will not be discouraged and will continue to work diligently. I am quite satisfied with my Mathematics (96/100) and Tamil (85.5/90) score[close to targets]. But am unfortunately unhappy with my Science (79.5) as well English (76.5) score[somewhat far from targets]. I guess that I did not to very well for English and Science as the paper was tough. Looking on the brighter side of things, I am elated to be withing the top 3 pupils for each subject.

From my knowledge, most students[as far as our class is concerned] did not do very well. Hence, if this was a PSLE paper, the average and Standard deviation would most likely be low, raising my marks and cushioning the drop fairly well.

Overall I am very disappointed in myself an will do whatever it takes to achieve good results. This is truly a "blow" for me as it was totally unexpected. From now onwards, I will certainly put in way more effort in my work and strive towards my targets. I am also determined to reclaim myself in the coming SA1.

SINGAPORE EDUCATION SYSTEM

I truly agree that Singapore has a very competitive and sometimes stressful education system. It maybe hard to cope with it once in a while, but sometimes, I feel that its just for the better. Although our education system causes unduly stress to parents, teacher and even students, it helps many strive and excel during international competitions. There is also a phrase "Ugly Singaporeans" which refers to the 'kiasu', typical study methods such as simply memorising facts and the competitive attitude. Instead of the traditional paper and pen, I think that pupils should be assessed in other forms such as hands on activities and even group work. This will also build up the essential skill of 'getting along' and 'the team spirit' which is the area most pupils lack in. Critical and lateral thinking skill would also be build this way. I strongly believe that many come to Singapore to pursue studies although it is stressful because it has a very systematic way of handling situations. It also has a good way of monitoring pupil's results with constant tests and examinations. Overall, in my opinion, I think that Singapore has a rather sound and secure education system with its pros and cons. I mean after all nothing can be perfect and I guess we just have to give and take.

Activities Outside School

I normally go for a swim on Saturday mornings. Sometimes I even go jogging practically every Sunday evenings. I also never fail to spend at least one and a half hours revising as doing work diligently. I am sure that exercising regularly will keep me fit as well as increase my perseverance level. I have recently read up on an artical which states how studies have shown that sports inproves children's studies.Unlike most people, I do not have tuition as I strongly believe that I am able to manage my education on my own. I will also be able to clarify certain doubts with my fellow friend as well as teachers.

TOTAL DEFENSE

WHAT IS TOTAL DEFENCE?
Total defence is just around the corner and it is important for us to know what it is all about. One of the five aspects of total defence is military defence. It is an essential aspect of total defence as it ensures the safety of Singapore citizens in war times. Civil Defence is another aspect of total defence as it is about taking care of your family, friends, and people around you in times of crisis. Economic defence, the third aspect of total defence, is about people upgrading their skills and knowledge to stay employed in this rapidly advancing island. Another aspect of total defence it social defence. This refers to when people of different races stick together and live in harmony, looking out for each other in tough times. The last aspect of total defence is psychological defence. It is put in place when Singaporeans are loyal to their country. It is also bout having the resilience to break through tough times such as economic crisis which we aer facing right now.

WHAT I WANT TO DEFEND?
Among all the things I have, I will definitely value and defend my loving and caring family. They have been there for me when I needed them the most and have supported my my whole life. In my opinion my parents ,who ensure a good and strong education, deserve more than just money- something which money cannot buy; love, care and concern.
I will also defend my muti-racial friends who have always been willing to lend a helping hand when I am in need. They are also ever-ready to listen to my problems and help me resolve them with an effective solution.

PSLE Goals & Targets

The following are my PSLE [Primary School Leaving Examination] Targets

English - 92
Mathematics- 98
Tamil - 98
Science - 97
Total T-Score - 285

In order to achieve these Targets, I will work very hard, spend at least 2 hours studying each day and spend less time on other leisure activities. I will also ensure that I have a balance study time for each subject as doing well in one and horribly in another is pointless. I strongly feel that it is also essential for me to keep fit and make the fullest of my time. There is no use in regretting and 'crying over spilled milk' after the results are out. I mean after all its just another 9 months or so. I will also read more books this year as I am confident that it will expand my range of vocabulary and improve my English effectively. I will read and equal amount of Mother Tongue books as it improve my Tamil Language as well. I am sure that I will experience the fruit of my labour if persevere as work diligently now.