Thursday, April 27, 2006

Island Resorts

As mentioned in my earlier posts, I've gone to island resorts for my holidays in 2005. The 1st and more memorable one was Redang Island in Trengganu, Malaysia during the Sept break. The 2nd was Sibu Island in Johor during the Dec break.
Though both are island resorts, Redang boosts crystal clear blue waters with an abundance of marine life, like Clown Fish(小丑鱼), Starfish(海星), Anemones(海葵), Corals(珊瑚), Sea Cucumbers(海参), giant clams(蚌)and even what looks like a Parrot Fish(鹦鹉鱼)! When made my 1st jump into the sea around Redang, I was taken aback by the depth of the sea. It was about 1 storey deep! Having been so used to having solid ground to rest yourself when you tire of treading water, I think most 1st-timers would be apprehensive about swimming in such deep waters. The next shock was what appeared to be a Parrot Fish. Though it was at least 3 to 4 metres away, having known that this big fish chews on corals, I was desperately trying to swim away from it. Fortunately, I think it was put off by the sheer number of tourists entering the waters that it departed right after I plunged into the sea.
All in all, Redang Island brought back many beautiful memories as it had everything I wanted: clear blue sea, no currents near shores, plentiful corals & fish and white sandy beach. Many aunties in the same group attest to the fact that Redang waters and wildlife is much better than the overcrowded Tioman Island. The bonus was this trip only cost a mere M$176 as it was organised by a tour agency in Johor. The only minus point was the long and dreary 8 hour coach ride from Singapore to Trengganu.
Sibu Island was much less interesting than Redang Island. It was supposed to be a relaxing trip, but work was constantly on my mind as I knew I had much stuff to complete when I return to work. The waters surrounding Sibu was murkier and certain areas had strong currents not suitable for even good swimmers. However, I found the shoreline fascinating as I had the luck (with lots of patience!) to observe quite a few hermit crabs up close. I shall endeavour to get a few students to help me put up the photos of the inhabitants of the island. I also discovered that amongst the staff working on Sibu Island, there was a Malaysian lady who had powerful vocals capable of singing songs by Whitney Houston and many others. If there's a Malaysian Idol, I am sure she is capable of becoming a singer in her own right if she wanted to.
Ok, I guess that's all for now. More updates at a later date. Now, if only I can sneak to Redang Island again for a short hiatus...

Melbourne Conference

My school's VP Mrs Lau, Mdm Kitha, Mr Danny Cha, Ms Dianah, Mr Andy Lee and I will be away in Melbourne from 4th May to 12th May to attend a world conference on "dimensions of learning", which our school's HOM is a part of. Also, we will take this opportunity to take a closer look at Australian schools and hopefully learn some pointers from them.
With the 2 Deans of 3E/4E away, I bet the Sec 4s will feel slightly more relaxed, since the Deans are not watching them during this SA 1. Anyway, just hope all my students will strive to do their best and not get into any trouble...

Thursday, April 13, 2006

博客设计比赛

最近有一项博网上日记设计比赛,希望学生们能够展现自己的才华,设计出耀眼独特的网上日记。同时也借此机会推行另外一种教学和写作方式。就算禽流感袭击我国,我们也不怕啦!