by: PHIL MCKENNA
Summary:
A 2007 study by the US-based Pew Internet and American Life Project found that one-third of American teen Internet users have been targets of cyber bullies. And as online communications evolves from chatrooms and instant messaging to social networking, the venues where bullying occurs are becoming more central to young people's lives. Research into cyber-bullying is still in its infancy. But it is becoming clear that aspects of online communication encourage people to act aggressively, prompting them to do things they wouldn’t dare try in real life.
One of the examples was Ghyslain Rasa, aka “the Stars Wars Kid," learnt this the hard way. In the 2002, the overweight and awkward Canadian adolescent made a video of himself playing with a pretend light sabre, and left it lying around at school. When his classmates found the video in 2003, they posted it online as a joke. Raza was so distressed, he finished the school year from a psychiatric ward. Unfortunately for him, it wasn't his friends who found the footage so amusing. According to UK marketing film The Viral Factory, it became the most downloaded video of 2006.
This cyber bullying cases in Asia is rampant. In Malaysia as of October 2007, 60 cases of cyber bullying occurred while in Singapore, 80 such cases of cyber bullying was reported to WiredSafety, which is an online safety and help group.
Reflections:
I felt melancholy and sad for the victims that had be cyber bullied as they were innocent and further more, they were bullied by an unknown person. To me, if I were them, I think I would scold them back or ignore them which it could be difficult as when one was hurt by her/his appearance, characters or just she/he, they felt uneasy and wanted to change themselves. In the end, it was too hard to change and they gave up by choosing the easiest way- commit suicide. It was stupid for them as I think that they should also think for others; the ones that loved them, the ones that knew them and not themselves.
I think the solutions to the problem can be a lot. The victims can calm themselves down first and tell their parents about it. The parents can then either report this to the police or school. Then the police or the school can try to track down the bullies which most likely are impossible as many used their fake usernames in the cyber world. The victims if needed help can consult a teacher or anyone they trust in.
In my overall point of view, it is wrong for the bullies for what they have been doing. However, I think that without a network will be better although it will cause our technology to be lagging behind. If all human beings are responsible, no such problems will happen and I think even the big problem that is happening now, the Global Warming can be prevented too as we are responsible in what we are creating.
Sunday, June 15, 2008
How to raise an A+ Student Pg 46-51
What this article is about :This article is teaches parents on the parenting techniques needed to raise an A+ Student. As most parents wants their kids to be a genius, they often put them under a lot of pressure by sending them to tuitions or giving them a lot of assessment books to do. This is in fact, not only the wrong way in raising a A+ student, but also will lead them to the verge of self-destruction. This article reveals some secrets of parents whom manage to raise A+ students and also teaches parents how to make full use of the tution centres.
As parents wants their children to get the best of education, many often overdo it by sending them to extra classes and making their child suffer from the extra loads of homework but despite all this, they may still not raise a A+ student. So some parents share their secrets to success and the all of them have one same thing about the method used, and that is home-educating their kids themselves.
Many parents use their own time rather than hiring a tutor to teach their kids. This not only let build up the relationship between the parent and the kids but also the parents can give the kids their support.
Some parents began to read stories book with their kids at a very young age which causes them to have a love for books. This makes the child a avid reader which makes them read more resulting them in having a wider vocabulary.
Some parents also constantly keep their kids under their surveillance so that they can know what their students are doing in school. By doing so, they can make sure that the kid does their homework and know what their child needs. Although this is a effective technique, the children may feel that their parents are invading their privacy and cause their relations to sour. Thus the kids need to understand their parents feelings for this method to work.
Reflection Starts Here:
I feel that the method being taught here are very logical as parents teaching their kids is a more effective way than hiring a tutor. This is because the kids may not be familiar with the tutor and thus have difficulties in communicating with the tutors which causes this way to be ineffective. However, when parents teach the kid themselves, they not only do not have difficulties in communicating with their parents but also able to confide their problems with their parents. The parents can also in turn improve their relationship with the children and can provide help to areas where the kids does not understand.
By reading story books to the kids at a very young age, this will make the kids very fond of books and make them avid readers at a older age. Having a love for books can not only increase their vocabulary, they can also obtain new knowledge at the same time. Whenever they faces a problem, they can read up on books on how to solve them so by having a love for books is a very effective way of raising a A+ student without giving the kids much pressure.
By taking control of the kid's life, parents can know how their child are doing in school and know what their child are weak at. Thus, the parents can help at areas where their kids are weak at. The parents can also constantly check with their kids to do their homework as constant work is needed for the child to improve.
So, i agree very much with what is being taught in this article on how to raise a smart student as not only are methods practical, they also do not add on to the current the stress the child faces.
How to Click And Clean
Reader's Digest June 2008
Page 72 to 77
Reflection:
After reading this article, I feel that people nowadays tend to say or post something easily on the net. I believe this is because internet is a place where you can communicate with people around the world easily so people may not tend to be careful on what they are saying or doing on the internet. I feel that most people did not think before they act so they will rather say or post something than thinking about the consequences of doing those stuff first. What they say or what things that they put on the internet can actually hurt someone's feeling since they do not think what will happen after posting anything on the internet so doing so can actually lead to tragedies such as relationships being broken, divorces being made or even casing someone that is hurt to attempt suicide. This can result in people being sacked by their bosses at work if people insulted their boss on the internet and the insults were being seen by their boss. This can also result in students being driven out of their school if they posted anything bad about their schools on the internet.
I feel that people who say or post something easily on the internet and maybe hurting someone as a result can be because of their parents' lack of teaching. If parents spend enough time teaching their children, their children may not do anything stupid or anything hurting someone related to them. I also feel that people tend to post stupid things on the internet is because they believe that doing so can be enjoyable and exciting. In conclusion, I believe that people nowadays should be careful when doing anything or else they may result in consequences that would be devastating so I advise people in the new generation to think before they act to avoid any misunderstanding or disasters.
Done by: Lim Chu Kee (34)
Page 72 to 77
Reflection:
After reading this article, I feel that people nowadays tend to say or post something easily on the net. I believe this is because internet is a place where you can communicate with people around the world easily so people may not tend to be careful on what they are saying or doing on the internet. I feel that most people did not think before they act so they will rather say or post something than thinking about the consequences of doing those stuff first. What they say or what things that they put on the internet can actually hurt someone's feeling since they do not think what will happen after posting anything on the internet so doing so can actually lead to tragedies such as relationships being broken, divorces being made or even casing someone that is hurt to attempt suicide. This can result in people being sacked by their bosses at work if people insulted their boss on the internet and the insults were being seen by their boss. This can also result in students being driven out of their school if they posted anything bad about their schools on the internet.
I feel that people who say or post something easily on the internet and maybe hurting someone as a result can be because of their parents' lack of teaching. If parents spend enough time teaching their children, their children may not do anything stupid or anything hurting someone related to them. I also feel that people tend to post stupid things on the internet is because they believe that doing so can be enjoyable and exciting. In conclusion, I believe that people nowadays should be careful when doing anything or else they may result in consequences that would be devastating so I advise people in the new generation to think before they act to avoid any misunderstanding or disasters.
Done by: Lim Chu Kee (34)
Reader's Digest June Edition (2008)
Topic: What makes a hero?
(pg9-11)
REFLECTION:
What makes an ordinary person do something extraordinarily brave? Is it because of the nature or noble qualities the person herself/himself possess? Or perhaps it's due to another person's influence/nurturing which makes one realize the importance of "leaving" space in one's mind to show compassion, love to people in the society?
HEROES, as defined, are people who are admired or recognized for their noble qualities through their contribution and significant changes they have done to the society or community. Stated in the text, I,myself also feel that "People over the world are becoming Martin Luther Kings and Mahatma Gandhis in their own communities", which simply means there are many heroes around you who have made contributions through their own means. Maybe the impact by one might not be distinct, but i personally feel that even the smallest things done with effort and love can make one a hero because this might eventually have an impact on maybe, a small group of people.
During these days, certain unforeseen disasters have struck the world. People might think mother nature is cruel, but of course, we can't possibly change the fate of the world but we can contribute through our actions to help those in suffering. Agree? Let's take an example: A 8.0magnitude earthquake in Sichuan, China left millions of people dead and the alive ones, in suffering and poverty. However, from this tragedy, I saw compassion and love from people all around the world who felt an urge to lend a helping to those quake victims through any means such as monetary donations and even blood donation. Well, Premier WEN JIA BAO was probably the one whom i considered a hero. As the prime minister, he went to the quake-hit area to direct the troops. In his speech, he said: "no matter what cost it will take, we must save the trapped ones in the debris and provide for the suffering". One thing many of us wouldn't have even thought of was that he actually went to help to save those in the debris, with encouraging words and ended up getting his hand with cuts when he tried to get a victim out. However, he didn't want help and claimed that "time is life" and told the life-savers to carry on with their own work. I was really touched at his actions and his words, and admired his thoughts for his people even though he might risk his life at the aftershock-prone area. What a HERO!
Actually, I personally feel that one's nature and the way he/she is being nurtured is important in bringing up a hero. The most important factor is one's mindset, the mindset to help people in need or the mindset to show care and concern for other people. No doubt, forcing one to possess these qualities while bringing up their child wouldn't work for sure. Mahatma Gandhi quoted "I claim no perfection for myself". He strives to do anything which will do good for his people, showing that he is willing and noble. Thus, he managed to claim an "image" of a HERO in the eyes of many.
Hence, I sincerely wish that the world would be filled with heroes every now and then, so that those who are suffering from poverty could leave a better life, those in need could receive care and help and finally those without love could feel concern and love from the heroes around them who are determined and willing to lend a helping hand to them!! May the world be a better place!
Done by: Dathne Tan(1)
Topic: What makes a hero?
(pg9-11)
REFLECTION:
What makes an ordinary person do something extraordinarily brave? Is it because of the nature or noble qualities the person herself/himself possess? Or perhaps it's due to another person's influence/nurturing which makes one realize the importance of "leaving" space in one's mind to show compassion, love to people in the society?
HEROES, as defined, are people who are admired or recognized for their noble qualities through their contribution and significant changes they have done to the society or community. Stated in the text, I,myself also feel that "People over the world are becoming Martin Luther Kings and Mahatma Gandhis in their own communities", which simply means there are many heroes around you who have made contributions through their own means. Maybe the impact by one might not be distinct, but i personally feel that even the smallest things done with effort and love can make one a hero because this might eventually have an impact on maybe, a small group of people.
During these days, certain unforeseen disasters have struck the world. People might think mother nature is cruel, but of course, we can't possibly change the fate of the world but we can contribute through our actions to help those in suffering. Agree? Let's take an example: A 8.0magnitude earthquake in Sichuan, China left millions of people dead and the alive ones, in suffering and poverty. However, from this tragedy, I saw compassion and love from people all around the world who felt an urge to lend a helping to those quake victims through any means such as monetary donations and even blood donation. Well, Premier WEN JIA BAO was probably the one whom i considered a hero. As the prime minister, he went to the quake-hit area to direct the troops. In his speech, he said: "no matter what cost it will take, we must save the trapped ones in the debris and provide for the suffering". One thing many of us wouldn't have even thought of was that he actually went to help to save those in the debris, with encouraging words and ended up getting his hand with cuts when he tried to get a victim out. However, he didn't want help and claimed that "time is life" and told the life-savers to carry on with their own work. I was really touched at his actions and his words, and admired his thoughts for his people even though he might risk his life at the aftershock-prone area. What a HERO!
Actually, I personally feel that one's nature and the way he/she is being nurtured is important in bringing up a hero. The most important factor is one's mindset, the mindset to help people in need or the mindset to show care and concern for other people. No doubt, forcing one to possess these qualities while bringing up their child wouldn't work for sure. Mahatma Gandhi quoted "I claim no perfection for myself". He strives to do anything which will do good for his people, showing that he is willing and noble. Thus, he managed to claim an "image" of a HERO in the eyes of many.
Hence, I sincerely wish that the world would be filled with heroes every now and then, so that those who are suffering from poverty could leave a better life, those in need could receive care and help and finally those without love could feel concern and love from the heroes around them who are determined and willing to lend a helping hand to them!! May the world be a better place!
Done by: Dathne Tan(1)
Reader Digest Reflection
RUNNING FOR HIS LIFE
Reader Digest 2008 June Edition
pg 36-43
A 13 year old boy diagnosed with dystonia is not able to walk without a limp but is able to run like a normal boy? Hard to believe, isn't it. But it is a real life example of this boy, Ryan, who has faced a his illness bravely. In the end, he finally found a way to minimise his pain in a non-medical and healthy way.
It all began when Ryan was five or six. The doctors did not know what was the problem at first, until a year later, after a specialist confirmed that Ryan had dystonia. The cause was quite unknown, but what was known was that this illness caused Ryan many problems for several years. there was once when the doctors suggested to numb Ryan's nerves, but Ryan was strongly against it as that would cripple his legs.
Luckily, when Ryan was thirteen, he realised that he had no problem joggingat all and his pain would go away. Ryan even got into an athletics club and became very famous-not because of his illness but of his speed.
It takes courage and bravery to face such a serious illness and for that, I respect and admire Ryan. Many people might have already given up in times of illnesses like this. For me, I just hope I will say healthy forever so that I would not need to fight such a tough and suffering battle. Ryan’s story has also taught me something important, that is to face my problems and not to run away from them, and there are always solutions to problems.
Though with a disadvantage against us, perfectly normal people, Ryan still manages to stand out from the crowd. Even coaches would take a second look at him. I hope I would be able to be as successful as him in life. Here, I sincerely hope the best for him.
___________________________________________________________
By: Perly Kweh (10)
3E
Reader Digest 2008 June Edition
pg 36-43
A 13 year old boy diagnosed with dystonia is not able to walk without a limp but is able to run like a normal boy? Hard to believe, isn't it. But it is a real life example of this boy, Ryan, who has faced a his illness bravely. In the end, he finally found a way to minimise his pain in a non-medical and healthy way.
It all began when Ryan was five or six. The doctors did not know what was the problem at first, until a year later, after a specialist confirmed that Ryan had dystonia. The cause was quite unknown, but what was known was that this illness caused Ryan many problems for several years. there was once when the doctors suggested to numb Ryan's nerves, but Ryan was strongly against it as that would cripple his legs.
Luckily, when Ryan was thirteen, he realised that he had no problem joggingat all and his pain would go away. Ryan even got into an athletics club and became very famous-not because of his illness but of his speed.
It takes courage and bravery to face such a serious illness and for that, I respect and admire Ryan. Many people might have already given up in times of illnesses like this. For me, I just hope I will say healthy forever so that I would not need to fight such a tough and suffering battle. Ryan’s story has also taught me something important, that is to face my problems and not to run away from them, and there are always solutions to problems.
Though with a disadvantage against us, perfectly normal people, Ryan still manages to stand out from the crowd. Even coaches would take a second look at him. I hope I would be able to be as successful as him in life. Here, I sincerely hope the best for him.
___________________________________________________________
By: Perly Kweh (10)
3E
Saturday, June 14, 2008
Reader's Digest reflection by Tasman using KX email
The Science of Sleep
Reader's Digest June 2008
Pg 58-60
Reflection starts...
I believe that everyone sleeps. Unless you are some superhuman that works 24 hours a day. Sleeping helps a person to forget almost every unpleasant things that happened in the day for that particular person. However, i believe that a person would not be able to sleep well when he/she does something which makes themselves feel guilty. In the article, it states a few points whereby i feel that its vital for everyone to know. The importance of sleep does not end when a baby grows and its vital for school-aged children. It also states that a good night's sleep sets a child for the day and i feel that its true. A good sleep also enables a child to deal with the social stresses and pressures of a busy school environment and also promotes learning and most importantly, sleep is essential for the growing of brains.
I feel that many children are against set bedtimes. This is most likely due to the fact that the technology is always improving and the children are attracted to electronic devices such as the TV or even the computer which allows them to play games 0r surf the internet. All this time being taken up by electronic devices definitely compete for their bedtime attention.Many chidren this days are also struggling to fall asleep and their sleep is often unrefreshing even if they are able to get into slumber. Nightmares are one of the common problems.
I believe that each and everyone of us differ in the amount of sleep they require and sufficient sleep is to ensure that they will be more active for the next day. Insufficient sleep would hence result in a bad temper, inattentiveness at school and a inconsistent performance and a poor memory. Therefore, establishing good sleeping habits is important so that a child can be active for the day.
Reader's Digest June 2008
Pg 58-60
Reflection starts...
I believe that everyone sleeps. Unless you are some superhuman that works 24 hours a day. Sleeping helps a person to forget almost every unpleasant things that happened in the day for that particular person. However, i believe that a person would not be able to sleep well when he/she does something which makes themselves feel guilty. In the article, it states a few points whereby i feel that its vital for everyone to know. The importance of sleep does not end when a baby grows and its vital for school-aged children. It also states that a good night's sleep sets a child for the day and i feel that its true. A good sleep also enables a child to deal with the social stresses and pressures of a busy school environment and also promotes learning and most importantly, sleep is essential for the growing of brains.
I feel that many children are against set bedtimes. This is most likely due to the fact that the technology is always improving and the children are attracted to electronic devices such as the TV or even the computer which allows them to play games 0r surf the internet. All this time being taken up by electronic devices definitely compete for their bedtime attention.Many chidren this days are also struggling to fall asleep and their sleep is often unrefreshing even if they are able to get into slumber. Nightmares are one of the common problems.
I believe that each and everyone of us differ in the amount of sleep they require and sufficient sleep is to ensure that they will be more active for the next day. Insufficient sleep would hence result in a bad temper, inattentiveness at school and a inconsistent performance and a poor memory. Therefore, establishing good sleeping habits is important so that a child can be active for the day.
Searching for Marita
Searching for Marita
By Daniel
When Susana Trimaco finds her missing daughter, she discovered a shadowy world of human trafficking and forced prostitution. Susana’s daughter, Marita, was lost when she was just 23 years old. To find Marita, Susana tried all means such as disguising herself as a prostitute going into brothels to ask girls whereabouts of her daughter. Susana and her husband Daniel even pleaded the police to take action after what a girl told them about what happen to Marita. Also, to pay for her investigations, Susana exhausted most of her savings, sold her house and Marita’s house and two cars. Her single-minded obsession also led to her and Daniel separating. However, some effort of Susana paid off, although she did not find Marita, but Susana refusing to be cowed, started receiving media coverage. The police who felt pressure by the publicity, they stepped up raids on bars and brothels. But, this led to Susana being in grave danger where bar owners and traffickers threaten to kill her, such as sending text messages to her “The next message I send will be a bullet in your head.” Many girls came forward and told Susana about their harrowing tales and Susana, who saw a little bit of Marita in each of them, she promised to do everything to help those girls. Other than that, she led more than 200 protesters through streets to demand greater government action in finding girls who were forced into prostitution. Mothers whose daughters have been kidnapped were also calling Susana for help. Susana was also elected to receive an International Woman of Courage Award. Susana also opened the 'Fundacion Maria de
Reflection:
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)