Thank you, kids 2009 !

Wednesday (23/12/2009)

Hmmmm…how should I begin? I guess everything makes it much easier from the heart. “Goodbye, Teacher Jenny!” said Le Xin. “Bye, teacher!” said Justin. “Thanks, Teacher Jenny!” whispered Wen Yue……..”Bye…..”, said Jin Nan. I just tried making the goodbye session as fast as possible before they see my rolling tears…….

Every little moment I spent with them, least did they know that I’ve learnt so much from them. Well…..of course, they know I learn Mandarin from them frequently……haaaaaa! Today before we part, we shared about our feelings; and I myself apologised for any misunderstandings and arguments which if I had had with them. Immediately, changes of face expression on them…… “Stop it, Jenny!” I told myself.

When I took over this class in 2008, it was like battling with aliens in space…….haaa! They hardly spoke or understood English. Yun Wen even said she hated me as she didn’t understand English but today, she wouldn’t stop uttering, “I love you, Teacher Jenny.” Most of these kids took at least half a year to adapt to the English system and today, most of them could speak and even ask me questions in English…….patience and dedication really pay off!

We did so much things together. Just name it, “ Dinosaurs, space, Dragon, Anglerfish, hammerhead shark, water and science, experiments, sports, Around The World etc.

Kids, remembered how we started our Chinese New Year of 2009? I told you a story of dragon and everyone just got excited including the girls…who won’t? I was excited myself……I sometimes ask myself if there really is a dragon……haaa! I practised so many nights to draw dragons before drawing them on the board. “Wow…….!” Was your exclamation when I drew a dragon for the very first time on the board. (Thank Goodness, I whispered to myself!) But today, anyone of you could draw much better than me and even create your own dragons with stories……J! We modified an old dragon model totally to a brand new one and you kids requested to perform to your parents. Eugene added that we could also perform for our year end concert! I was so excited because you had the same thought as mine. Immediately, I approached the Principal and he bought our idea…hooray! Thus, we had our wonderful Wushu teacher, Yang lao shi who trained us martial art and also dragon dance performance……….to me, able to do what we like most and working hard for it, is what we call “Dreams come true!” IT WAS A FABULOUS DRAGON DANCE PERFORMANCE, I salute all of you!!!” I shall not forget any of you…L

That was why, I named my blog, “Little voice, great thoughts” Kids, thank you so much for everything. Along the process, we got to know each other better……laughters, sorrows, doubts, determination and wonderful days! You grew smarter while I grew more mature.

How, I run through hundreds of songs for your performances. Finally, everyone chose “Zip-A-Dee-Doo-Dah” over “Tomorrow” and “I’d like to teach the world to sing”. A joyful song with great hopes and faith reminding us the important qualities of everyday life!

Finally, I chose the song “We Are The Champions” – fast version for our sporty performance. My instinct told me that all of you would love it…..true enough, we clicked! J I had a hard time to decide the suitable positions for each and everyone of you. We went through a few physical tests and thus, everyone secured their suitable parts well. Initially, as we discussed together, we wanted to have a story linking to this performance. Unfortunately, due to lack of time, we could only practise the main part as we had to prepare for our Standard One lessons as well. Yet, you worked very hard for the performance….you enjoyed yourself and didn’t sigh…..that’s the “sportsmanship” spirit!

Hopefully, when you watch our DVD on Black Light performance, you will remember every bit of moments we spent heartedly together. My teacher once said, “Always do things from a sincere heart, the result will amaze you.” I know we shall meet again………….Take great care of yourselves!

Last but not least, thank you so much to all parents for believing in your kids and myself. We couldn’t have done it without your support. Keep in touch, kids! A wonderful song fo all of you which the kids and I composed together…haaa! May you remember them forever…J a gift from your kid!

My mother is the best,

She always love me so,

She never sighs at me,

She always tries her best,

Oh, you are like the magic star,

You are so special,

M O T H E R……I love you!

I will follow you,

Follow you wherever you may go,

You work hard all day long,

To give us a home sweet home,

Thank you so much,

1, 2, 3, 4………..Oh father, oh father, oh father,

Please remember that we love you, we love you, we love you,

Forever and forever, forever, forever,

Oh, F A T H E R,

Thank you for everything!

Graduation Trip: Taman Pertanian, Shah Alam.

a) Assembly
The excited kids assembled and some of them categorised their belongings as luggage which I agreed. They ran to me saying, "Is my bag, too big?" Teacher:"Not to worry, the bus will carry them. You will be ok!"

b) Arrival
We first went to the paddy field. We saw a farmer doing harvesting. The kids touch the grains and were amazed. Jian Wah asked, "can I have one of these to bring home?" The kids learnt that some types of grains included wheat, barley and rice. We saw the different so called tractors....haaaa.

Then, we visited Fern Section whereby we saw different types of ferns. They usually don't produce flowers.

Next, we went to the Mini Zoo whereby we saw a talkative parrot. Mr. Hoo greeted it with "Assalamualaikum" and it greeted back "Mualaikumsalam".....cute! There was also a shy red parrot. There were many pigeon holes with them flying above us. The kids ran up the small hill to visit the deers. They had labels on their ears to ease the workers do their job. Next, we visited a horse and 2 ponies. We saw their discharge ......haaa.....just like black round stones.

Then, we ventured to the mini Cactus Hill. Gosh, we felt like being in a desert.....Sahara to be precise. And the kids (boys and girls) were like cowboys; climbing with all their might. They were careful not to touch the cactuses and they stood on different rocks to post for photos! How exciting!

We also saw some fruit plants such as Dragonfruit. Yup, they need support to grow.

c) Our Chalets.
Pomegranate chose "Johor 2". By this time, the kids still had lots of energy to carry their luggages with our help. Wow! Then, we gathered at a mini hall next to the canteen. Some kids helped me to clean the table and arranged the chairs. Some swept the floor. Finally, the lunch came and the deliverers were Teacher Pik Xia and Hui Xin.

d) Station Games
We were divided into 4 teams, a mixture of both classes. We played 4 games. The Newspaper game, Rubberband game, Flour and candy game and also quizzes.

e) Swimming time!
Kids changed into their swimwears and boarded the bus to the swimming pool. Fun! Fun! Fun! Splashing, sharks, floating, diving and of course some kids tried to disturb and teach me as they know I am not good at swimming........I'm gonna miss them.....

f) Rest time.
After bathing, the kids put on their bedsheets and started dozing off. Some were still very chatty but finally the room was quiet.

g) Dinner time!
The kids woke up, marched to the canteen. Wow! So much delicious food. Vegetarian fried rice, fried mushrooms, mixed vegetables, potatoes, fried chicken and also "Yuyu" ice......yummy!

h) Strolling Time!
The kids gathered their torchlights and we lighted the way along the jungle path. We heard songs by crickets and could hear some monkeys' sound. Birds too. But it was only for 15 minutes, yet they had fun!

i) Games.
We played a few. "Do you know my name?", "Da Fong chui = Strong wind", "Tian Shan de ma ma", "Limbo Rock".
Guess what? The kids started dancing to music......I was SHOCKED......there was breakdance started by Wen Yue and Foo Soon, then Michael Jackson by Ze Yan and etc. I even taught the girls some waltz....haaaa!

j) Gifts Exchange.
The most awaited moment. Kids picked a number and received the gift. Some exchanged with their friends as they preferred something else. As for me, I received a BEN 10 watch from Jin nan and I shall treasure it. The funny thing is, Jin Nan too received mine. What a coincidence!

k) Good Night
I was so worried that the kids couldn't sleep as they might missed their homes.....but honestly, none of them mention anything. I told them a bedtime story of "The Princess and The Frog" and well, most of them has smiles on their faces before sleeping. In fact, someone had that dream theat night.......haaa. Of course, there was also a funny ghost dream......! They slept soundly....I guessed I was the one waking up almost every hour worrying about them......:)

l) Breakfast.
We had Milo and I took them out for exercises before eating Maggi Noodles. When the noodles were ready, we ate together.

m) Exploration
We explored the different gardens and crossed a small bridge. We continued and came upon a high bridge. Almost every kids climbed the bridge without fearing....wow! They saw the beautiful scenery from the top! Jin Shan asked me, "Why is there rubbish in the stream?"....well......Malaysians must really show good examples to their young ones!

n) The Winter House.
We were very lucky because it was just ready ...as if awaiting for us! Gee....it was so cold. The kids threw the snow as if they were snow balls. It was fun all the way!

o) Home Sweet Home
The kids doubled checked their luggages. Then, we boarded the bus and we reached ABC before 1 pm. I am pretty sur, the kids would have a great rest during the weekends! Have a great weekend!

Nihon, The Country Of Japan

Monday (14/09/2009)

a) Common Phrases
Without my guidance, the kids tried speaking the Japanese words using phonics sound……..quite accurate… Among:
Good afternoon - Konnichiwa.
How are you? - Genki densu ka?
I’m fine. - Genki des.
I eat bread. - Watashiwa pan o tabemosu.
Excuse me. - Sirimase.
Please. - Dozo.
Thank you. - Arigato.
Japan, Japanese. - Nihon, Nihongo.

b) Geography
A country of about 3000 islands, Japan has 4 main islands namely: Honshu, Hokkaido, Shikoku and Kyushu.
It was believed it rose from the Pacific Ocean and thus, Japan is a mountain top. It is situated in an unstable crest of Earth whereby if faces about 1000 Earthquakes per year. It consists of mountains and volcanoes in most places. Besides that, it faces typhoons such as Tsunami. Therefore, kids in school are trained for “earthquake drill” whereby they have to wear helmets.
Fujiyama, the landmark of Japan is actually still an active volcano although scientists categorise it to be quite stable.

c) Economy
Due to its limited space for farming and residential area, japan has reclaimed land along its coast. Their government invested a lot in research and technology to produce high quality yield crops and effective machines to produce maximum harvest.
It produces 10% of world’s fish demand after China and Russia.
Its industrial is crucial whereby Japan produces the most cars and it is well-known for its user-friendly Asimo Robot.

d) History
Its native people were Ainu; pale looking people. Then, Asians migrated to Japan which form today’s Japanese. Lots of people were farmers. The Emperors had full control over Nihon. Then, the landlords; Shogun and Samurai defeated the Emperor. Buddhisme and Christians came in due to the influence of Portuguese and other countries. Shoguns closed their doors to the world and eventually The Emperor fought their way back to victory.
Japan became more powerful and started World War 1 and 2. After their lost due to the bombing of Hiroshima, the Americans controlled them. Fighting their way to be independent, the Japanese worked very hard to build up their country and to earn the respect from other countries.

e) Video Clips
*The kids watched some introduction to Japan. Among: kimonos, their cultures including paper fan, lanterns, sashimi and sushis, kites, the 4 seasons, The Blossom Flowers and also Sakuras (cherries). Bonsai, bridges, temples, castles, the religion of Shinto and Buddhisme and the world’s largest bridge called “The Akashi-Kaiyo Bridge”.

Movie: Around The World

Friday (11/09/2009)

a) Hello, World!
It is a storybook about different languages spoken by children around the world. Example from Denmark, Iraq, Turkey and also Japan.

b) Movie: Around The World In 80 Days.
It is a movie about Master Fogg and also his servant Passepartout. Passepartout was a loyal servant who took good care of his master’s money as they journey together.
From London to Rome, Italy; the kids watched how Passepartout became a hero who defeated the bull using a red cloth. The competition was in The Collosieum. Then, they travelled to India. There, Master Fogg stood against the traditional custom of burning a widow alive; beside her dead husband. Due to that, they saved Princess Aioda of India from being burnt alive.
Then, they travelled toChina and then to Japan. However, similarly; a robbery in London had caused Master Fogg to be the suspect. Thus, he was tailed by a British Officer wherever they are.
Passepartout was lured with wine and got drunk. He couldn’t pass the ship tickets to his Master. However, his master thought of another way to continue the journey. With determination, they arrived safely at Yokohama。
Meanwhile,Passepartout was carried to a ship when he was drunk but his money was stolen. Fortunately, the ship sailed to Japan. Arriving at Japan, he seeked for a job in a circus. When Master Fogg arrived Yokohama, he thought of looking for Passepartout in the circus. True enough, they met each other. Together, they continued their journey with Princess Aioda.

Aunty Liz

Friday (04/09/2009)

a) Our Invited Guest
We were very excited to have Wen Yue’s mother sharing with us about USA.
We greeted her. She brought lots of items to show us…….which was very kind of her.
USA being one of the highest standard of living in the world had produced movies such as Terminators, Ben 10 and also Alvin and The Chipmunks. Their actors and actresses are from various races. Example: there are White Americans, African Americans and also Asian Americans like “Wan Li Hong”. Abraham Lincoln was a White American while Obama Barrcak is the current African American. There are multi races of Amercans living in USA.
As USA is a huge country, it has many types of climates. She talked about the 4 seasons.

b) Spring (March until May)
The snow starts melting to allow the growth of buds and little plants. Its colourul and beautiful in this season. Tulips are popular (Aunt Liz’s photos), animals such as hare, otter, bevaer, racoon and squirrels are everywhere. She shared her experience of how a little chipmunk came greeting her.
Activities: Easter day whereby kids decorate hard boiled eggs and hide them so that their friends could seek. She showed them a storybook on Easter Eggs.
Tornado and Hurricanes are also common during this period. Ze Yan asked what those mean. Hurricanes are common in Florida as they are strong wind blowing from the ocean. We watched the video clip and it was scary as they caused horrible floods and even trees can’t hold onto their roots sometimes. Meanwhile, Tornado blows from a vast land due to the huge pressure differences. It could suck animals, cars and even trees and transport them to another area! Aunt Liz shared with the class her experience.

c) Summer (June until August)
Eugene, “Summer is like in Malaysia”…..haaa! True….this is the warmest period whereby people go for school break about 2 months.
Kids said thay would do sports under the shiny sunshine. Basketball, Football and Swimming.
Aunt Liz said some people travel in their trailers or caravans. She showed them a book on caravan which attracted the kids’ attention.
The night is also bright, so everybody have lots of activities such as BBQ, night walking with lighting bugs.
Hailing is a shower of ice as big as golf balls. It lasts about 3 – 15 minutes. This is due to the climate differences on the ground and in the air. It could destroy crops, hurt people and also damage buildings.
I brought some ice cubes and showed them. I threw from high into a big tray. The sound made us felt “painful”. The kids also threw the ice cubes and gee….it was cold…haaa!

d) Other sharings
Ze Yan asked about Halloween and Aunt Liz shared that people dressed in various costumes such as monsters and princesses to knock at peoples’ doors to get some candy treats.
Due to lack of time, Aunt Liz showed the class an Autumn jacket and also some coppers. American people insert coppers to get their newspapers from the machines.
We gave her our aprreciation gift and thanked her.
It was agreat sharing and I am sure the kids would cherish it…

Abraham Lincoln

Thursday (03/09/2009)

a) Zi Jun’s Storybook
He was the First President of USA and what was his background?
He was a farmer’s child. He worked very hard and was tall and thin. His mother paseed away when he was very young. Luckily, his Stepmother loved the family very much. They nearby the jungle where there wasn’t any school nearby. When a school was built near his home, he grabbed the opportunity to learn. However, as he had to help his family a lot; altogether he only had a year of education.
He enjoyed reading and writing. He would raed newspaer for his friends and new friends. They loved his jokes. He was labelled as an honest man. Then, he decided to study law. He succeeded and at that time, lawyers had to ride on a horse to do their job. Everyone liked him.
He was upset by the slavery system. He fought for their rights. After hardworkship; he won again! Slaves were freed and USA grew faster and became more prosperous.
However, he was shot one day by people who were against him. There was a huge statue carved for him in USA……. a very nice one! Without him, we wouldn’t have today……thank you, Mr. President!

b) North America and USA
North America has got about 10 countries. However, USA is the biggest and USA is the world’s fourth biggest country in the world, It has 50 states altogether.
Its area comprises of Grasslands, desserts, icebound lands and forests too.
Its National Symbol is the Bald Eagle while Malaysia’ is Sang kancil. We observed Malaysia old RM note to see the Sang Kancil.
Its Landmark included Statue Of Liberty, The Grand Canyons and Golden gate Bridge.
Its currency is US Dollar which is bigger than RM. US$1 = RM3.80.
Thay have native people and they were once conquered by the British too. After gaining Independence; more and more people migrated to live in USA. Usa boomed with so much opportunities from Agriculture to manufacturing and today; even its servicing line is the most important one.
People around the world live here who practised their cultures and customs. I also showed the kids ‘Cowboys” and Red Indians.

c) A Gift for Mrs. Low
The kids drew nice pictures for her. Some actually drew Macchu Picchu such as Song Chuan, Ze Yan and Yun Zhe. Most girls drew Mrs. Low as Princess. They enjoyed the process.

The French “Spiderman”

Wednesday (02/09/09)

a) Alain Robert
We did KLCC Twin Towers 2 weeks ago and talked about Alain Robert who climbed the tower twice. Although failed, he managed to capture the worls’ attention. He was handcuffed as he didn’t get the permission of the tower’s management to climb.
He didn’t give up. His success to scale Taipei 101 has probably motivated him! Thus; 1/9/09; he climbed again without using any tools…only his bare hands and legs. He started before dawn and intelligently thinking that most guards would be busy having their food for fasting month….hmmm By the time he reached the top; the helicopter was already flying above him. He was then handcuffed!
I read the newspaper for the kids. Silence…..and full focus! Morale: If you want to be famous, do the right thing without involving the police…..haa!

b) Macchu Picchu Layout
From an Encyclopaedia, I sketched a layout on Macchu Picchu. There was Mount Andes, the gate, soldier towers, terrace hills for agriculture, stairs, King and Queen’s Palaces; Nobles Homes, school, shops, farms, temples and slo a sundial.
Individual Sketching.
By now, more kids came to ask my permision to draw slightly differently. Example: they wanted to draw the school before the palace which I permitted.
More kids are writing their short dialogues eventhough I didn’t require. Example: Song Chuan, Yun Zhe and Sharlene.

c) Invitation Letter
We discussed the contents of the letter. We would like to invite Mrs. Low; Wen Yue’s mum to share with us about USA as she studied there before.
They were excited to know more about USA especially when they know that Alain Robert climbed the Goldane Gate Bridge in san Francisco….wow!
Eugene, Sharlene and Jen Ning assisted us with the letter as they finished their drawing first.
The class discussed about the present. Wen Yue said a book would be good with nice drawings. We agreed!

Macchu Picchu, Peru

Tuesday (01/09/09)

a) South America
There are 11 countries here making it the third largest continent of the world.
It’s well known for its multi-racial people who stayed there permanently. There is its famous Andes Range and also its Amzon Forest.
Popular for its piranha, red face monkey, Anaconda and red face monkey.

b) Peru
Once was conquered by the Spanish. Agriculture is important wth growth of potatoes, corns, wheat and beans. Coincidentally, Wen Yue’s mum brought us a sample of paddy grain. Thus, I introduced to the kids.
Mining is important is such copper, iron and zinc.
They also plant cotton. Darinage and water pollution is a challenge here.
Its landmark is “The Lost City Of Macchu Picchu” of about 500 years old.

c) Puppet Theatre
I used this concept to share about this great story.
Those days, Peru Empire was well-known for its gold. 1532, the Inca Leaders quarrelled among themselves because of greed. Thus, Spanish soldier Pizarro saw the chance and intervened the situation. Finally, there was an Inca King but a puppet one under the control of Pizarro.
1516, Inca warrior, Manco didn’t like this; so he fought for justice. Lack of modern weapons, the Incas lost. Thus, Manco led his people to a very faraway place between two top peaks of Andes Range. There, they built a new city complete with everything such as school, temple, shops, palace, nobles homes, soldiers towers and etc.
It was called the Lost City Of Macchu Picchu. However, it lasted only 30 years and nobody knows why the Incas left Macchu Picchu and to where? However, after they left; the city was quickly and magically covered with jungle plants…wow! Thus; nobody could find it!
Some books said, they were never discovered by the Spanish. Some books said in 1800s the Spanish finally found macchu Picchu and burnt them. Then, nobody ever saw it again until Hiram Bingham an archeologist in 1911. It was elected as UNESCO Wonders Of The World.

d) Video Clips and Analysing
Wow……something nobody can imagine. How did they find so many bricks and stones for building. Ze yan said because they were in the mountains’s area; so it’s easy to get them!
The Incas had only Llama, a tame animal. There were no huge animals to help to build the city.
The structure was perfectly nice and you can’t even put a knifeblade in between the two bricks. Thus, the Incas had really good construction technology.
They have a sundial near their temple. This is similar to Stonehenge; using to predict the weather.
They have good terrace hills for agriculture.
Shu Wei, “Teacher, the Macchu Picchu looked like a maxe from far!”
We totally agreed.

A Trip To Tuition Centre

Friday (28/08/2009)
a) MERDEKA: Tanggal 31
· We rehearsed this popular Indepencdence song and recapped the meaning.
· We sang along with the video clip. The kids watched video clips on “Malaya Achievement Of Independence Day” whereby our late Tunku Abdul Rahman, called out MERDEKA together with all races on 31st August, 1957.
· They also watched previous popular MERDEKA advertisement on boat racing. “Unity is so much powerful than egoistic intelligent people” was the message.

b) A Visit to ABC Tuition Centre.
· Here, the kids saw their previous seniors who are now in Primary School.
· These Primary Students welcomed the younger kids and performed dances, songs and role-plays.
· The role-plays were to prepare the kids for Primary environment as they would be Standar One next year.
· The kids participated the singing action before going home.
· Tea break was alos served. They enjoyed themselves.

Our Western Food

Thursday (27/08/2009)

a) Western Food: Ingredients
l First, the kids learnt the names of ingredients. Chicken burger slice, mixed peas (included carrots and corns), mayonnaise, potatoes, milk and salt. Tools included rice cooker, oven, knives, bowls and trays.

b) Team work.
l Each kid was given a knife to cut the already peeled potatoes. However, there were 6 non-peeled potatoes. Thus, while some kids cut them, some came to me individually to peel the other 6 potatoes. They cut them into small slices so that we could boil them easily and mash them faster too.
l Meanwhile, the mixed peas were left to boil in the rice cooker. After about 30 minutes, the kids observed me scooping them out. Wow…the colourful mixed peas! Then, we added mayonnaise in them and stirred them together.
l Meanwhile, 6 slices burger were left toasted in the oven. However, they took a long time. Thus, Teacher Huang assisted us by frying them in the wok.
l The sliced potatoes were also left to be boiled. Next, Teacher Huang showed us the steps of making mash potato. Mash them and add some milk and salt…..they’re healthy and delicious!

c) Setting the table.
l Each kid was given a napkin. They learnt to fold them so that the napkins could stand on the table. Some kids helped me distributing the plates. I guided them to place the spoons, forks and knives at the proper place.
l Then, I scooped the salad and placed the burger slice and also the mashed potato. Hmm….with some tomato sauce.

d) The benefits of each vegetable.
l Potatoes have eyes which must be sliced off. These eyes would grow to be stouts which are poisonous to be eaten. Similar to tomatoes, green potatoes are poisonous to be eaten. Carrots are rich with vitamin A which strengthens our eyesight. It is believed that some pilots eat these to gain good eyesight especially when the drive the plane at night. Poataoes are also rich with carbohydrate that provides energy. It prevents colon cancer. Corns has lots of vitamins and it is believed to prevent heart disease and cancer. Meanwhile, chicken gives us protein for body growth. The kids enjoyed themselves very much!

e) Continuation of MEDEKA postcard.
l The kids cut their flags and pasted onto a cardboard. They wrote the key points to Petronas Twin Towers which they learnt yesterday.

Our Starters Meal

Friday (21/08/2009)

a) The Ingredients
We were excited to have an invited guest. Mrs. Lu introduced us the ingredients. They are parsley, french loaf, butter, garlic, corns, chicken, onions and salt.
First, we queued up to slic the long French loaves into slices. Then, the kids plucked the parsley into small pieces. They were placed in two small bowls. Mrs Lu then added some garlic and butter into each bowl. The kids queued up to stir the mixture. Then, we sat down taking turns to spread the butter onto the sliced bread.
Meanwhile, I heated the oven. The kids asked why. This is to speed up the prcocess of baking and more importantly, to make it hygiene and sage for baking.
I placed the slices in the oven. The kids checked the time and about 10 minutes later, the toasts were ready!

b) The Chicken and Corn soup.
Some kids cubed the fresh cooked corn into small droplets. They used the spoons. Some preferred to pickle using their little fingers.
The other group sliced the biled chicken drumstick using their clean little fingers. Once ready, we marched down to the kitchen.
Mrs. Lu added the mixture into the pot. She also added 2 cans of Sweet Corns into the mixture. Then, she boiled the soup. She added some salt. Hmm….delicious!

c) A Hearty Starter Meal.
Each kid was given a bowl of soup and a slice of garlic bread. Some dip into the soup while some enjoyed eating just like that. Most kids had 2 slices and 2 bowls of soup.
We thanked Le Xin’s mother and presented her our hand-made gift. She said, she also learnt some recipes while studying in Australia. She lent us her photo albums.

d) Children Around The World
Sesame Street showed us how kids of different countries celebrate New Year.
Americans have aprty, countdown and fireworks. Portugese kids eat 12 grapes each and make a wish. Japanese kids draw cards and then pound rice cake. They also play kites, tops and badminton. Their badminton rackets are made of colourful planks. The kids learnt that Japan is the first country that encounters sunrise.

Big BEN, the Clock Tower

Thursday (20/08/2009)

a) Big BEN
Just nearby Tower Bridge is the world’s biggest chiming Clock Tower. It is attached to the Westminster Palace and Bridge.
It has 4 faces and 4 different bells. It chimes every quarter hour. The hour needle is 2.7m while the minute needle is 4.3m. The tower is 16 storeys tall and is 150 years old. It is famous for its accuracy. It is made of bricks and sand and it’s brown colour.
The kids marched down to see video clips of Big BEN. They listened to its lovely chime. In the tower, the clock caretakers work there. They maintain the machine in it. Although popular, it has no elevators and one has to climb the 334 stair flights…….wow! Only VIPs are allowed to enter Big BEN. The top view is magnificent. One can see the Thames River, Tower Bridge and also London Eye.
But is the time in every country the same? No,…..why? How do people of the past measure time? Song Chuan said using the sun while the others are unsure. I asked them to check with their parents.

b) The Westminster Palace and Bridge.
It was burnt in 1834. Before that, it was a place for criminals. It was rebuilt and today, it is Britain’s Parliament. The kids learnt that Malaysia too has got a Parliament. It is a place where the governments ministers meet up for meetings and discussions.
The kids saw the seats and the structure of the Westminster roof and ceiling.

c) A glimpse on Australia.
We took a quick tour on Australia. The reason was to gaged the kids to Mrs. Lu’s experience there. I understood that she studied there.
Among famous spots are The Sydney Opera House, The Ayers Rock and its famous Great Barrier Reef.
The Reef has got very clean natural water which encourage the breeding of it. Many endangered sea animals are seen here such as dugongs and the humpback whales.

An Invitation Letter

Wednesday (19/08/2009)

a) British Food Culture
UK has the most races in the world with more than 200. Among: The Scotts, Welsh, Irish, French, Chinese, Indians, Africans, Australians and etc. Thus, they have wide choices of food. However, generally; the English serve themselves hearthily. Starters, Main Course and Desserts.
Shi Jie was chosen to be a customer. She had a napkin below her chin. She could also place it on her thigh. Then, there was a fork on her left. A spoon and fork on her right. Her meal would be in between. We did a demonstration. It was fun!

b) An Invitation Letter to Mrs. Lu
We were very honoured that Mrs. Lu had agreed verbally through phone to be our British chef. Thus, we had to do a letter writing to invite her officially. The kids gave me their thoughts of what to write. I wrote them on the whiteboard. 3 kids volunteered to do the letter writing. Sharlene, Song Chuan and Ze yan did the letter writing and we gave passed the letter to her on the same day through Le Xin.

c) Gift discussion.
We thought of a suitable gift. Jin Shand and Jien Wei suggested drawing and everyone agreed. Then we decided if the pictures were to form a big card or something different. We asked Le Xin what her mother would like. She said her mum would like a big LOVE and Mrs. Lu loves all the colours. So the class agreed to do that!
Each kid got a small piece of colour paper and drew pictures they thought would make Le Xin’s mother happy. Some wrote “Thank You” while some drew Mrs. Lu as a Princess.

Vegetable Omelette

Tuesday (18/08/2009)

a) The Vegetables
The Red Lady Finger which we planted have grown. Only a pot survived while the other pots had been infected with fungus. Although we sprayed enzyme regularly, it doesn’t really help. The cherry tomato wouldn’t grow probably due to the weather. The watermelon could only produce mini fruits until their stems were accidentally cut off by the mower man who came after school.
The Red Lady Fingers are uncommon in Malaysia compared to the green ones. Anyway, both have similar nutritions. Indians like using the red ones to cook curry. So, we mixed with Green Lady Fingers which I bought. (Lady Finger is also known as Okra).

Lady Fingers were found in Middle East, Africa. Traders introduced them as they sailed in the past. They are healthy for our body. The seeds can be processed as cooking oil and also as decaffeined coffee. The vegetables are commonly eaten as green salad in the West. It is a flowering plant. Recalling the colour of our planted Red Lady Finger, its flower is big and yellow and red colour.
Tomatoes were not popular in the past as their leaves are poisonous. Thus, when buying tomatoes, we must buy the ripen ones. However, when tomatoes were introduced as salad, almost all cultures have today included them in their meals.
Garlic is known as cancer prevention. Garlic helps to battle the bad bacterias in our body.

b) Team work
To cook this omelette, the class was divided into 4 groups. Their tasks included peeling the garlics, onions, cutting the tomatoes and also Lady Fingers.
Gee…..the onions actually made Jin Nan’s eyes in tears. They enjoyed cutting the garlic. Their Lady fingers had to be of small slices.

c) Chef time!
We marched to the kitchen and I am thechef while they watched me cooking.
First, I introduced the tools. Wok, spatula, oil and salt. Heat the oil. Add in the garlic. Then the onion and followed by Lady fingers and tomatoes. Stir them well.
We cracked 4 eggs. The kids mixed them. Then, I poured in the egg mixture onto the wok and waited for the egg and vegetable mixture to blend together. When they are golden in colour, I scooped them up onto the plate.
Wow….we served ourselves with bread. Most kids had two slices. Initially, 2 kids thought they wouldn’t like the vegetable. However, they changed their mind. Thanks……healthy omelette!

Painting Our Tower Bridge

Monday (17/08/2009)

a) Malaysia vs. UK
We are a multi-racial country with many races. We have 27 million Malaysians. However, UK is the country with the most variety of races. They have about 60 million English or British people. The kids tried guessing the reason but couldn’t. The reason was because UK used to be a very strong country which monopolised many countries in the past. As these countries gained independence, some resided in UK and thus, practised their culture there. Example: the Scottish in UK wears their tradition costume of skirts when performing their bagpipes. Eugene said, it looked like “sarung” which we agreed.
Therefore, Malaysia is famous for Nasi Lemak, Roti Canai, Sates etc. UK is popular for Fish and Chips, Sandwiches, Spaghetti ( as they have British Italians) and bread and soup. Thus, we voted what we wanted to cook for the upcoming activity. Majority go for Mushroom soup. Hmm….delicious! Over there, the meal is quite hearty. They have appetiser (eg. Mushroom soup / salad), main course (Fish and Chips / pasta) and also dessert (ice-cream / cake / jelly).

b) Team work
The kids chose the tasks they wanted to do. Then, they went to their attributed groups. Surprisingly, they waited rather patiently for me to show each group on mixing the paints.

c) Painting our Tower Bridge
Loud voices were everywhere……calling friends for help, telling friends the proper way to paint, advising friends not to mix too much water and reminding friends to obey the class rules…..some just felt excited wearing the apron……..wow! I just felt that these kids were in a painting zone with passerbys watching their amazing work. Some just enjoyed watching the strokes of paint, some enjoyed looking at friends’ work while some enjoyed seeing paints getting on friends’ faces. Well, honestly; I would probably be like them especially being with good friends and doing things we enjoy!
We used brown, blue and red. These were the original colours of Tower Bridge London and the kids wanted the exact ones! We learnt: red + black = brown. We had to mix a a lot as we didn’t have brown paint. Altogether, we coloured 2 big towers and 2 smaller ones. We also coloured 3 carriageways and 1 walkway. Not forgetting the straws which are the fences. The kids were reminded to use the paint wisely as not to waste the resources. We should practise what we think, “Saving The Earth”.
Some even went around lending hands to the unfinished ones. Some used too much water. Thus, the layer was watery. Then, they painted it the second time which was nicer.

d) Let’s clean together.
They cleaned the classroom together! Some washed the palates, brushes, wiped the tables, clear away the newspapers, some stacked the chairs. Some even enjoyed mopping the floor.
Then, we sprinkled some glittering onto the cone roof while the paint is still wet, as we could save glue. Well, we should be able to construct the cables tomorrow and run some cars on them.

Penang Bridge vs. Tower Bridge

Wednesday (12/08/2009)

a) Penang Bridge vs. Tower Bridge.
Penang Bridge is the longest bridge in Malaysia and is today ranking at number 39 in the world (according to Wikipedia).
It is to link between Seberang Prai in the mainland of Malaysia to Gelugor which is abroad. Ze Yan said it does not charge toll while Jin Shan said it does. When I used Penang Bridge about 6 years ago, I remembered we had to pay toll. Anyway, we have to do more research on this. However, Tower Bridge is free probably due to the much shorter distance. In fact, most bridges in London are toll free.
We compared the length. It is 13.6 km or 13, 600 m. It’s a long bridge with no bascules.
Ze Yan said that it looked beautiful in the evening. Tower Bridge was opened in 1894 while Penang Bridge in 1985.
Tower Bridge is 244 m. The middle bridge is called the bascules. It is divided evenly so that could be lifted when ships sail by. Each bascule is 30.5m. The first and second suspension bridge is each 82 m. The height of Tower Bridge is 62m. Then, we recalled the lifting process which we discussed yesterday. They are always excited about it.

b) Sketching of Tower Bridge, London.
The kids sketched Tower Bridge. Each bridge looked beautiful. They also labelled it.
Construction of Tower Bridge, London.
Before continuing this, we talked briefly on our construction. The towers had no windows. We discussed on whether to have a lifted bascules exactly like Tower Bridge. Almost all wanted lifted bascules. So, we decided to tie string from the bascules to the cones on the Tower roof.
We tried working as a team. The kids took turn to construct this group by group.

KLIA to United Kingdom

Monday (10/08/2009)

a) Malaysia’s famous places.
I showed the kids a few landmarks. They were supposed to guess and place them at the correct states which we coloured together last Friday.
Among: PETRONAS Twin Towers, KL Tower, Gawai Festival, Sumazau Dance, Baba Nyonyas, Portuguese People. They wanted to know where Bukit Tinggi was.

b) Let’s Travel!
We located KLIA. We talked about things to be packed for travelling. The important items included passport, money and clothes.
They observed my passport, the numbers and also the stamps which consisted the countries I had been to.
Then, I showed them some foreign notes. Among: China, USA, Singapore etc. If we were going to Japan, then we have to change RM into Yen currency.
We pretended being passengers. After buckling seatbelts, we could see the Atlantic and Pacific bluish ocean.....wow! Then, we landed in England , UK!

c) Getting to know England.
What’s the landmark of England? London is one of the popular cities in England. Obviously, its London Bridge is famous.
We sang the song. The girls became the bridges whereas the boys went under their little hands. Fun and laughter!
The kids only know the first verse. What about the other verses? As they listen to the other verses, they asked many words they couldn’t understand. They guessed the story as I sang to them.
Lyrics:

London Bridge
London Bridge is falling down,Falling down, falling down.London Bridge is falling down,My fair lady!Build it up with iron bars,Iron bars, iron bars.Build it up with iron bars,My fair lady!Iron bars will bend and break,Bend and break, bend and break.Iron bars will bend and break,My fair lady!Build it up with needles and pins,Needles and pins, needles and pins.Build it up with needles and pins,My fair lady!
Pins and needles rust and bend,Rust and bend, rust and bend.Pins and needles rust and bend,My fair lady!Build it up with silver and gold,Silver and gold, silver and gold.Build it up with silver and gold,My fair lady!Gold and silver I’ve not got,I’ve not got, I’ve not got.Gold and silver I’ve not got,My fair lady!
Here's a prisoner I have got,I have got, I have got.Here’s a prisoner I have got,My fair lady!What's the prisoner done to you,Done to you, done to you?What’s the prisoner done to you,My fair lady!Stole my watch and broke my chain,Broke my chain, broke my chain.Stole my watch and broke my chain,My fair lady!
What'll you take to set him free,Set him free, set him free?What’ll you take to set him free,My fair lady!One hundred pounds will set him free,Set him free, set him free.One hundred pounds will set him free,My fair lady!One hundred pounds we have not got,Have not got, have not got.One hundred pounds we have not got,My fair lady!Then off to prison he must go,He must go, he must go.Then off to prison he must go,My fair lady!

d) Video Clip: London Bridge
We watched a video of real Tower Bridge. Wow! It’s special. The walkway is above the bascules. As bigger ships pass by, the bascules would be lifted. The lifting would take the bascules about 5 minutes.
Then, we watched 2 animated clips on London Bridge. As the song was sung, the parts of London Bridge kept falling down. The kids were curious to know more. We watched for the second time.

Our Tower Bridge, London

Tuesday (11/08/2009)

a)United Kingdom (UK)
UK is comprised of Scotland, Wales, North Ireland and England.
Malaysia comprised of 14 states.
London is a big city within England. I showed them the difference between the UK flag and England flag.

b) London Bridge ‘vs’ Tower Bridge
London Bridge is a bridge at the upstream of Thames River. Meanwhile, Tower Bridge is a bridge between London Bridge and Westminster Bridge.
Old London Bridge was built since 55AD more than 2000 years ago while Tower Bridge was only opened in 1894.
The song ‘London Bridge’ referred to London Bridge and not Tower Bridge because ‘old London Bridge’ was destroyed in many occasions for about 6 times. Today’s new London bridge was ready in 1972.
The kids were excited with the video clips watched yesterday. Thus, we watched one more time and then sang the song together.

c) Tower Bridge vocabulary
It has 2 Towers with 2 even bascules. These two bascules would be lifted when there are sea traffic. There is a walkway above the bascules. On the left of the first Tower is the First Suspension Bridge. On the right of the second Tower is the Second Suspension Bridge.
The Watchmen worked in the Cabin Room in the Towers. The Gatemen worked at the gates. Both of them would be communicating before lifting the bascules.
Till today, there aren’t any serious accidents that involve death due to the opening of bascules.
There were minor accidents: An accelerated lorry and also a stunt motor biker.

d) Construction of Tower London
The kids suggested to use bottles or boxes for the Towers. As for the bascules and bridges, we would use hard paper boxes. For cables, we would use straws or plastic sheets.
The kids were divided into 4 groups. Each group was called to construct the bridge while the others coloured the “UK” flag.
Some made the cones, some cut the plastic sheet as cables, some measured the walkway and bridge ( or carriageway).

Traditional Games

Friday (07/08/2009)

a) Malaysia’s climate
Malaysia is near the Equator line of the globe. Thus, throughout the year, we face tropical climate. Namely, sunny and sometimes rainy. The same goes to countries along this Equator line.
Thus, we are able to plant trees easily. Thus, we plant paddy, rubber trees, tea and cocoa too!
At the early satge of Independence era, most Malays are farmers, most Indians work in rubber estates and most Chinese operates businesses. However, as education is more fair to everyone today; we have Malaysians in all walks of professions! Example; more Indians are now doctors while more Malays operate businesses.

b) Unity is Harmony.
Teacher: Why is everyone happy to have friends of different races?
Class: We love Nasi Lemak and roti canai.
Besides food and celebrations, games also unite everyone from young to elderly. Among promoted traditional game include tops (Gasing), Congkak, Wau and also five stones (Batu Lima).
Shu Wei brought her grandmother’s five pebbles and we learnt to play. It was rather challenging for the kids to look at the pebble in the air and trying to grab another pebble on the floor with the SAME hand.
Thus, we modified the game. We used 2 hands. 1 to focus at throwing up the pebble and then catch. The other one is to grab the other pebble on the floor.
The class was divided into 4 groups. They played and recorded their marks. Eventually, we chose the best 2 pairs to compete. They were Song Chuan, Ze Yan, Eugene and Yun Zhe. The Champion of the day was Song Chuan…….hooray!

c)Malaysia map.
Some kids volunteered to colour the big Malaysia map while some students chose to play Congkak or “Five Stones” with their friends.
Yun Zhe: Can we go to England next? Or Italy?
The kids learnt about Malaysia culture in the past. Maybe, it’s good we travel to another country and then compare with Malaysia.

A Multi-Racial Country

Thursday (06/08/2009)

a) Why are there multi-racial people here?
Only 2 people said because their grandparents came from China. Indigenous people (orang asli) were the first group of people residing in Tanah Melayu. Later, came some Javanese and Malay people from Indonesia. These people have resided in Tanah Melayu much more longer before the arrival of Western’s power. Then, Tanah Melayu became the colonies of Portuguese, Dutch, British, Japanese and finally British again. They came here to conquer the trading route of the Asia. They could obtain many items such as tea, cinnamons, silk and many more. Pulau Pinang, Melaka and Singapura were the 3 popular areas. These western powers had guns and canons to conquer Asia easily. Thus, Indians from India and Chinese from China came here to trade too! Some of them later married the locals. Thus, we have Malaysian Chinese, Malaysian Indians, Malaysian Portuguese and also Malaysian Baba Nyonyas. Surprisingly, the kids were anxious about this history!

b) Independence Day
We discussed about this briefly last year. During the British monopoly, the locals attended English schools. Thus, some even went abroad to study. Then, Malaysians realized that they want to attain independence and rule their own country! Thus, three intellectuals of 3 different races went to England together for this matter. The trip was headed by Tunku Abdul Rahman who then became our first

c) Prime Minister.
Malaysia achieved Independence day on 31st August, 1957. “MERDEKA”! Because of them, Malaysia is able to prosper until today!

d)Video Clips: More about Malaysia.
We saw how photos of Punjabis, Indians, Baba Nyonyas, Ibanese, Indigenous people. We also saw the main commodities of Malaysia namely rubber and tea.
Then, we watched the 6 Prime Ministers of Malaysia from the first to the current one. They were Tunku Abdul Rahman, Tun Hussein Onn, Tun Abdul Razak, Tun Dato’ Seri Dr. Mahathir Mohamad, Datuk Seri Abdullah Badawi and our current sixth Prime Minister is Tun Abdul Razak.
Jen Ning: Who is more important? The King or Prime Minister.
Teacher: The King is more important and even Prime Ministers bow to them. However, some matters are to be dealt by the Prime Minister while some matters by the King.
Tourism Promotion: Rasa Sayang Sayang Eh.
It’s a song of all Malaysians and sung in mixture of the three languages namely Bahasa Malaysia, Mandarin and Tamil. The clip promoted Malaysia to the world! Wow……

e) Traditional game: Congkak.
One of our attraction is Malaysia’s traditional game such as Congkak. It’s originally played by the Malays but today all races play together as 1Nation.
I explained to the kids and they started playing it by taking turns.

Welcome to Malaysia

Tuesday (04/08/2009)

a) What is special about Malaysia?
Yun Zhe: Malaysia has no twister and everyone is safe.
Eugene: Malaysia is not too hot or too cold. You can plant many plants here.
Jen Ning: Malaysia has green trees everywhere.
Sharlene: There isn’t much crime here. Teacher: Correct, no war too!
Jin Nan: Malaysia is beautiful.
Zi Jun: People can go to many shopping centres.

b) TV Broadcaster Introduction
We imagined ourselves running a TV programme introducing Malaysia to the world. That’s tourism.
I drew the map of Malaysia so that the kids could observe and learn. We learnt that this country has 14 states. We learnt the different names. They are “Perlis, Kedah, Pulau Pinang, Perak, Selangor, Wilayah Persekutuan, Negeri Sembilan, Melaka, Johor, Pahang, Terengganu, Kelantan, Sabah and Sarawak”.
Every kid took 2 flash cards. As I introduce the words, they quickly came forward to paste them onto the board.

c) Advertisement
Jen Ning was the Chinese. Yun Zhe wanted to be the Indian. Ze Yan wanted to be the Muslim.
They spoke different Mandarin and Bahasa Melayu. Example: “Namaste, Saya ialah Muthu Krishnan. Saya ialah orang India dari Malaysia. Selamat datang ke Malaysia.”
This is to introduce that our National language is Bahasa Melayu.

d) Video clip: My country
I have prepared some slides about Malaysia. We covered some parts. The flag, the King, the Parliament building, the Petronas Twin Towers. Some of Malaysia’s economic contribution included tea, rubber latex and tourism. We shall continue today.
We also watched a very interesting clip about People of the world. They sang the song “Stand By Me”. People from different countries used different musical equipment to perform. They even wore different clothes and looked very different.
Objective: Some factors bring people together such as music and food.

The Earth and The World.

Monday (03/08/2009)

a) The Earth and the world.
The third planet from the Sun. It is estimated to be 4.6 billion years old.
When we divide an earth to lay them flat, “Atlas” or “map” is what we get.
Kids: There is a lot of blue.
Eugene: Those are the seas.
Jen Ning: Green colour is the plants.
Jin Shan: What about brown, teacher?
Yun Zhe: What about white, teacher?
Brown is the land and soil while white is the ice or snow.
70% of Earth is water. The kids guessed the number of countries in the world. Haa……some stretches to thousands. It has estimated 195 countries with the biggest in Russia. There are 7 continents namely North American, South American, Europe, Asia, Australia, Antarctica and Africa.
The kids guessed where Malaysia is, where China is, where Italy is and so on. There are estimated 6.7 billion people around the world.

b) Places I have been?
The kids shared about places they had been to before.
Wen Yue shared about Redang Island. Jien Wei shared about China Disneyland. Sharlene even brought her photos on Hong Kong. She went to Macao and Disneyland too. Yun Zhe said he has been to Melaka. Jin Shan wanted to know more about Melaka. Justin wanted to know more about China.

c) Video clips.
We watched a video clip about people from around the world. There watched faces of different countries wearing different clothes. Colourful people with various cultures.
I also showed the kids clips on “Wonders Old The world”. Example: The Pyramid, The Lost City of Machu Picchu, The Eiffel Tower and etc.
I asked the kids to think of a suitable title for this new theme.

d) Mind-mapping
We brainstormed about the topics we wanted to learn.
Some wanted snow, Z Yan wanted to know about mountains and clouds, Yun Zhe wanted to know about Italy, Jin Shan wanted to know about Melaka, Justin wanted to know about China and Eugene is so excited about Egypt’s Pyramids. Yun Zhe is curious about Machu Picchu and the kids disbelieved that the people in the city actually disappeared in a night…….let’s learn more then! Happy traveling!

I Can Count

Tuesday (28/07/2009)

a) Word Revision
I flashed the cards about 10 minutes and they read it together. Some words were guided using phonics sound. I realised that their phonics skill have shown improvement and that boost their confidence!
Vocab: sleep, dream, brain, red blood cell, intestine, skip, jump, walk, food, bacteria, lungs etc.

b) Worksheet: Mathematics
We learnt “minus”. The scenario related to children playing in the playground. Out of 9 children, 4 went home. (9-4 = 5). Then, they saw 10 butterflies but 4 flew away. (10-4=6) On a tree, there was 9 squirrels. 3 ran away and left 6 (9-3=6). The kids plucked 4 out of 5 flowers available.
(5-4=1).

c) Drawing: My Sports Day
The kids recalled about their sharings yesterday. They started drawing their favourite moment of the Sports Day.
Among: Ze Yan and Zi Jun drew the baton race. Sharlene, Shi Jie and Yun Wen drew “Cheerleaders”. Foo Soon and max drew their Basketball Performance. Jin Shan drew a dragon in the sky. The kids claimed that at one point, the clouds looked like a dragon’s head. Jing Kai drew Basketball Performance while Wen Yue praised Max for his performance.

d) Storybook: Jungle Bullies
To enhance the topic of emotions, I told them this story.
It involved animals such as elephant, hippopotamus, lion, leopard, little monkey and its mother.
Morale: Big or small, huge or tiny, there is always enough space for everyone. Learn to share because it gets more fun. Don’t be bullies but love everyone.

Sports Day Unforgettable Moment.

Monday (27/07/2009)

a) Game: Vocabulary
I flashed the vocabs learnt in this theme. First, they walked around. As I stopped singing, they paired themselves up. Then, they read their flash card word to their friends twice. Then, the other partner would do the same. Once finished, they sat down. We did this for at least 6 rounds.
Next, every kid got up to read their flash card word. Then, they built a sentence each. Most of them were independent. Initially, everyone started the sentence with “I like to………”. Haaaa…….thus, we learnt how to expand sentences .

b) Video Clips: Sports Day
The kids were so excited to see themselves performing and playing. They also saw their parents and friends. Everyone was smiling, laughing and cheering. Some even jumped high.
The kids asked for the sports English namess. Among the events were: baton race, water and sponge, hula hoop wave and strong arms.

c) Kids’ Sharings
Generally, most kids loved the baton race as it was very exciting!
Wen Yue: I like seeing Max doing the turning during the Basketball Performance.
Jin Nan: I enjoyed being carried by parents’ strong arms.
Yun Zhe, Ze Yan and Zi Jun: The Baton Race was fun!
Shi Jie and Le Xin: We loved the Cheerleading.

Space Jam

Friday (24/07/2009)

a)Final Practice: Positions
We must ensure neat positions. When to get onto the stage, how to leave and when whould they bow. This will definitely enhance any performance.
Yup……they were ready…….with confidence. Jen Ning and Sharlene even insisted to dance with a slight fever. I got them to drink lots of water and rest well. Great performance needs healthy body and mind.

b) Reward: Space Jam
As I promised them, I showed them the cartoon movei “Space Jam” acted by Michael Jordan.
They were motivated by how high and consistent Michael could jump. Wow! Of course, he practised very hard even when as a young boy with a standard basketball hoop.
Michael Jordan: Dad, I need to do well in sports so that I could be accpeted into the High School and University.
At that time in 1970s, there were still unjust among the blacks in America.
The kids got even excited to see Bugs Bunny in the movie…

Grumpy or Excited?

Thursday (23/07/2009)

a) MELS Story
It was very kind of Justin to bring his cousin sister’s big MELS book from T – Z.
The kids enjoyed the pictures, colouring and most of all the interseting rhyming story.
It involved about a turtle, umbrella and also volcano.
Worksheet: HAPPY and other emotions.
We discussed about “grumpy, angry, excited, smiling, happy and laughing”.
Yun Zhe: We as kids never got angry! Why must adults get angry??
Kids are innocent as they can be .

b) Practice: Sports Day
We practised harder and they got better. The challenge was to get the Cheerleaders danced as a team. I could see that they practised harder than before. I always believed that the process is more important than the result.
Max: Teacher, I recalled my steps of performance when I was in the car….. :)

Emotions

Wednesday (22/07/2009)

a) Storybook: When I Feel Happy
People smile, laugh and sometimes even have tears when they are too happy!
Sometimes, it involves a lot of noise while sometimes, its just quiet.
Some draw and paint, some do gardening, some do housework, some play games and sports, some have picnics with family while some read storybooks with their loved ones.
Then, the kids shared their happy moments.
Le Xin: I’m happy when daddy brings me shopping.
Eugene: When daddy brings the family hiking at Taman Rakyat, I feel happy.
Zi Jun: When my mother brings me to the park, I feel happy.
Jin Nan: I am happy when I received presents.

b) Practice: Sports Day
We practised twice. However, we made a minor change. Justin decided to be involved in the Basketball performance. He doesn’t want being the Yoga Emcee as he insisted earlier. So, it was important for him to be serious to let us decide whether he is fit to be in the performance.
Surprisingly, he was more serious probably knowing his situation. Consequently, we accepted him and he worked harder than before.
The “Hand Wave” got better!

Reproduction

Tuesday (21/07/2009)

a) Where did I come from?
* Mother’s stomach was everyone’s answer!
* To be correct, it’s from a mother’s uterus. It stays there for 9 months and during this time, it is called a fetus.

b) Stages
* For the first month, it is as big as a pea. By second month, its spine, heart and brain starts to develop. By the third month, some facial features appear together with arms, legs and obvious genitals. From 4th to 6th month, the fetus’s hair, eyebrows and eyelashes develop and a heartbeat can be heards by a stethoscope. The skin is covered by fine hair and mother feels the kicks! The 7th to 9th month is the crucial period for rapid body and brain growth. The fetus wakes up easily and sucks its thumb.
* All the while, the fetus is being protected by a special fluid called the fluid-filled amniotic sac. It protects from bumps and bacteria. The fetus gets its nutrition from the umbilical cord which would be cut off once the baby is delivered. That would be our belly button.

c) Heredity
* Because the baby shares his / her parents’ genes, thus, they look similar to them.
* Some twins look alike, some not. Some are of same sexes while some are of different sexes.

d) Sports Day Practice
* We practiced again to ensure consistencies. They got much better and were in line.

e) Game: My lost toy
* The kids formed a circle. We closed our eyes. A person was chosen to hold a toy. He / She had to place the toy behind a friend. Once we stopped singing, the person where the toy was placed behind had to chase the first person. Either one person would have to grab for a place to sit.
* We sang all the songs that we have learnt before.

Rehearsal At Stadium

Monday (20/07/2009)

a) At The Stadium
· The kids were so excited that we went to the Stadium for rehearsal.
· Upon arrival, we saw a number of Chung Hua students preparing for Sport Day’s performances and activities.
· They were so amazed too see how a teenager jumped over their friends’ hands similar to high jump.
· They also saw the running track, the football goals, the long jump sandpit and also the javelin sport.
· We started by warming up but the kids were so thrilled that they ran a huge round circulating the tracks.

b) Rehearsal
· Overall, they were attentive. We practised more on the coming in for positions and going out from the stage.
· The place was so big that it was a bit messy at the first practice. At the second practice, things got better. The Cheerleaders were also more consistent. The Goodbye Wave was also livelier.

c) Post-mortem
· When we reached school again, we enjoyed Jing Kai’s birthday mini ice-cream cones. We also discussed about our performance on how to improve it!

Game: Scissors, Rock, Paper

Friday (17/07/2009)

a) Vocabulary
* We read some words learnt earlier including: leg, arms, lips, hair, head, hand.
* Each kid was given a counter. They played in pairs. First, they placed the counters at the “Start” position. Then they competed “Scissors, Rock, Paper’ to move their counters. The first person to finish reading the words would win. This was exciting. Some kids even came asking me the words a few times to ensure they can win such as Eugene, Yun Wen and Foo Soon.

b) Practice: Sports Day Performance.
* First, we practiced a new dance for our Sports Day in accordance with the music “Oh, Suzanna”. Only 5 steps involved to be repeated four times.
* Then, the kids went down to the playground to practice their “Cheerleaders” and “Basketball Performance”.
* It was their first rehearsal in front of other teachers and they were very alert of their steps. The Cheerleaders needed more guidance to ensure consistencies of steps. They were quite efficient!

Food Pyramid

Thursday (16/07/2009)

a) The Pyramid Structure
* The kids are always told to eat healthy food. What is healthy food?
* By looking at the pyramid and pictures, they know independently what to eat and what not to eat.
* We should eat grain and cereal the most as they provide energy. Others included: pasta and bread. Next most would be vegetables and fruits. Next, would be meat, segg, beans and tofu to provide lots of protein. Next, would be milk, cheese and yoghurt. The least to be consumed would be sugar and sweets.
* These foods have got nutrition such as vitamins and minerals which help us to stay strong and healthy. People from different countries consume different food to get the same nutrition. Example; a vegetarian consume lots of beans and tofu to get protein. Guess what? Some people from Africa consume roasted juicy worms for protein. Some Thai people roast well-bred cockroaches as snacks. The worms and cockroaches are bred for commercial purpose and they are clean and safe to be consumed.
* The kids shared their stories. Some people after a surgery consume lots of eggs, fish or meat to get the protein so that they heal fast.

b) Practice: Sports Day
* We practiced the Cheerleading and Basketball Performance. The kids got better and more confident!
* We discussed about our attires. Black tracksuits for boys and since girls do not have black or dark grey tracksuits; the girls would wear the pink tracksuits.

The Wave Movement

Wednesday (15/07/2009)

a) The Wave
* After wushu class, the kids settled down. We discussed about waves. Some kids came to demonstrate its movement. Jen Ning, Foo Soon, Yun Zhe and Zi Jun demonstrated.
* Then we got into the boys’ group and girls’ group.
* Each held one another’s hands. It was difficult at first. Then, we remembered about dominos. So when the first person bent, the next person followed through and until the last person. The wave was getting better. Finally, they looked quite like a wave…haaaa. We might include that movement in the Sports Day Performance.

b) Practice: Sports Day
* We practiced the Cheerleading and followed by the Basketball Performance.

Teeth Brushing

Tuesday (14/07/2009)

a) Proper Ways To Brush Teeth
· Justin said we had to brush the front teeth sideways first and then brush the inner teeth.
· Sharlene said we should brush up and down.
· Shu Wei said her dentist advises 3 minutes brushing.
· We read Guan Yi’s book. It said we should brush softly up to down continuously for 2 – 3 minutes to avoid gum bleeding.

b) Video Clip: Teeth
· We watched a dentist who advised us. We must brush our teeth on the left or right first. Place the brush near the gum and teeth. Brush down a few times to get rid of the stuck food. Then, brush them in circles for about 20 times. Next, move to the front and right teeth. Then, only go the inner teeth. Lastly, brush our tongue one way down.
· Some people use a device to brush their tongue. Some people use floss to floss the teeth between as food might get stuck. Some with bad breath or who want hygiene would rinse with Listerine.

c) Worksheet: Teeth
* We learned words: mouth, lips, teeth, toothbrush, toothpaste.
* Then, the kids labeled and coloured them.

d) Practice: Sports Day
* The girls practiced Cheerleading while the boys practiced Basketball Movements in groups.

Our Teeth

Monday (13/07/2009)

Song: Laugh With Me
A song to describe how important a “smile” to us! Laughing even makes our days wonderful!

Storybook: The Toothbook
The kids had so much to say about their fallen tooth and what they did with it. Eugene said that his sister’s friend threw the rotten tooth under the bed and the next day, she found a coin…wow! Jin Shan agreed it will be true. Shu Wei just smiled puzzledly!
Song Chuan said he still has all his Primary 20 teeth. Shi Jie said her some of her sister’s teeth had fallen. Yun Zhe said he was worried that his 2 milk teeth at the top row would not grow. They had been away for quite a while. I said they will definitely be out. Meanwhile, just take lots of Calcium and healthy food. Furthermore, these food will help their teeth grow beautifully.
The book shared with us the teeth structure of different animals. Example: a duck has no teeth, a cat has 30 teeth and a walrus’s teeth are called small tusks. The tusks would help them hold to ice glaciers when they sleep.
About 6 months old, a baby would have its first 2 Milk teeth at the bottom row. By the agae of 6, they would have 20 teeth. At the age of 6 or 7, their Primary teeth would fall off and be replaced by

Permanent Teeth.
We learnt the structure of a tooth. Enamel, the white and outer layer is as hard as a rock. The roots will hold the tooth to our gum. Blood vessels within the teeth would help us sense our food. Thus, especially when one has a rotten tooth; it hurts when they drink cold drinks or eat ice-cream.
Some kids from China and Italy believe there are Tooth Fairy. Thus, the kid will place their tooth under the pillow and the next morning, they are suppose to find some treasure…wow!
As half of the class didn’t bring toothbrushes and toothpaste, we shall do the brushing activity tomorrow.

Worksheet: Body parts
A revision to the words learnt earlier. Kids read a few times, then labelled the parts correctly. Then, they coloured the picture.
Meanwhile, the kids practised their Cheerleading and basketball Performance separately in their groups.

Thomas Edison

Friday (10/07/2009)

Thomas Edison
When he was a little kid, he was very quiet. People around him thought he was silly or “not clever”……”s - - - - -“. Edison put fire on his father’s barn at a young age and he was canned in the public. Fearing for him, his mother bought him a thibk book of Scince. He read all of them and started expeimenting things.
When he was 12 years old, he sold newspapers and candies at a railway station. His ears was accidentally pulled by a man trying to go into a train. The ears got injured and became a little deaf. At that time, the medication was not that modern to fix his ears problem.
However, he continued doing experiments until one day, he decided making light. He failed so many times and he would stay long hours in his lab. People called him crazy. Evbentually after almost 1000 times, he was the light inventor. People called him “The Light Wizard”. Those People who called him unpleasant words learnt a big lesson: “Never Judge a Book By Its Cover”. The kids learnt too!

Practice: Cheerleading and Basketball
Based on yesterday’s performance, I divided the kids into 4 groups. I categorised based on their favourite physical movement as well as their interests and opinions.
The “Cheerleaders” are Jin Nan, Shi Jie, Jen Ning, Le Xin, Sharlene and Yun Wen. Shu Wei preferred to be in the Basketball performance.
The Cheerleaders practised first accompanied wit the song “I Feel Good”.
Then, the boys performed accordingly in their groups. The background music is “Space Jam” performed by Michael Jordan and Disney cartoon characters.
Justin tried a few times and he preferred to perform his yoga posture. So, we thought that Emcee position would best suit him. He shall then use some yoga postures while introducing our performance…..:)!

Our Ears

Thursday (09/07/09)

Storybook: I Hear With My Ears
Kids asked questions: What is a wave? Why does some people wear hearing device, what is an eardrum and etc.
Sounds travel throught waves in the air. They would flow into our ear tube until it reaches our eardrum. The ear tube is wear we accumulate dust and dirt.
The waves vibrate the eardrum and are moved along by auditory bones, they reach another stretched membrane called the oval window. It transmits the vibrations through the fluid filled cochlea which is filled with thousands of sensory hair. The thousands of hair would send messages to the brain.
When we tend to listen to loud sounds, by mid 30s or 40s, some people would have hearing problems. Thus, we must look after our ears to avoid using hearing aids. Some people are born deaf or mute or maybe they faced some accidents. Thus, the serious patients would learn sign languages to communicate.

Continuation: Artcraft
We continued with drawimng lines using rulers. Today, they drea on the second piece of paper.
They got better. Some kids were excited doing this activity.

Discussion: Our Performance
I drew the layout of the Stadium which we are going to have our Sports Day. I drew the stage where they would perform. Some kids say, when performing with friends, they are not afraid.
Back 2 months ago, when we first tried “pom pom” and “Basketball Game”, the kids already wanted to perform to their parents. I said it would depend on their hardwork and discipline. Now, their chance is here. We did some planning together, Rugene, Ze Yan and Yun Zhe also gave some ideas. They suggested somersaults. Wer would practise tomorrow.

Measurement

Wednesday (08/07/09)

Our Red Lady Fingers
While watering our vegetables, we saw two grown Red Lady Fingers. The kids came down to pluck. This time, they were Jien Wei’s. However, they were hard. Could they be too old?
We then compared to Jen Ning’s small red lady fingers and found that hers was hard too. I guess that was why nobody sold Red Lady Fingers.

Learning to Measure
After wushu class, the kids learnt to measure with rulers. I brought in 1 meter ruler and the kids learnt that 1 m = 100cm. The normal ruler is only 15 cm. However, the ruler which I am lending to them can be opened up to 30cm. Those rulers would be their third present.
We were going to make a patterned paper or rather “batik”. Thus, each took a piece of half recatangle paper and measured. It was difficult but most of them tried until the aim is achieved. I assisted Le Xin, Justin, Jin Shan, Jing Kai and also Foo Soon.