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LATEST LETTERS

Watch our fast food intake

From: Isaac Wong Jun Yi, Pri 6, Qihua Primary
Even though we might find fast food delicious, we should not eat too much fast food. Fast food is often nutritionally poor and high in calories. Evidence demonstrates that overeating commercially prepared fast-food products can negatively impact health in both the short and long term. It is high in sugar, salt, saturated or trans fats, and contain many preservatives and processed ingredients. We should all watch our fast-food intake.

Keeping our world clean

From: Adhikari Tanvika, Pri 5, Fern Green Primary
Everyone should play their part in keeping the world clean (April 2024). The world produces tons of trash every day. One of the cleanest countries is Denmark because almost 100 per cent of the country’s trash is recycled and the people living in Denmark do not throw litter on the streets due to their respect for nature.

Pollution can also affect our health. Some tips that can help to keep the world clean from pollution: (1) recycle plastics bottles, etc (2) drive cars less and use bicycles instead (3) reuse plastic containers (4) plant and care for trees. I hope all of us can play a part in keeping our world clean.

Embrace diversity

From: Rebecca Chong, Pri 5, Methodist Girls’ Primary
I felt angry when I read the article “Dolls don’t have to be fair-skinned”. Company owners should be aware of how their products impact consumers. Companies that sell dolls should make sure that there is a diversity of products so children will not think that a certain race or size is superior.

Children are easily influenced into thinking certain things, and their beliefs when they are young can shape them into what kind of persons they are when they grow up. I am happy that there are people such as Mr Okoya who are aware of this and try to shape the world into a better place for the next generation.

Touched by storytellers’ work

From: Hannah Koh En Han, Pri 5, Methodist Girls’ Primary
I am writing in response to the article ”Storytellers who help spread the love of reading” (June 2024). When I read this article, I felt really touched. Even though the storytellers probably did not have many people reading stories to them, I think that the storytellers are very caring as they help the underprivileged children to have a better future and help spread the love for reading.

Reading also helps to extend our vocabulary and help us gain more knowledge. My school is promoting reading whereby we would need to read for 15 minutes every day. For every ten books read, my school library will donate one book to the underprivileged children.

Strive to stop animal cruelty

From: Seet Chu En Joanne, Pri 5, CHIJ Our Lady of Good Counsel
Animal abuse and animal cruelty have become a rising worry and concern among us. There are many reasons why people kill animals — for food, clothing, or other products. Humans also use animals for entertainment in circuses and other events. They are also used in experiments for soap, perfume, and so on.

Rabbits are commonly used in these experiments as they are small, gentle, and easy to handle. They are also rather cheap to rear with only the basic standards needed. They also breed fast, creating new test subjects quickly. Thousands of rabbits are killed in US laboratories for cruel experiments and product testing. In the laboratory, bunnies do not get real names, just numbers. That is because humans think of them as tools, not as living things with feelings.

To try and do our part in stopping animal abuse, we can teach our friends and family to respect all animals. We can also buy cruelty-free vegan products, adopt a pet, and volunteer at the animal shelter. All of us, as one community, have to strive to avoid animal testing and cruelty.

Battling extreme heat

From: Kashish Bansal , Pri 6, Changkat Primary
I was extremely shocked after reading the article “Extreme heat disrupts daily life in Asia” (June 2024). The very fact that it was a sweltering 53°C in Pakistan in May is extremely harrowing. Alas, this is the result of human actions that cause global warming. All around the world, the effects of global warming can be seen clearly. Venice is slowly sinking. Global warming is also causing mudslides.

When battling against the heat, we also need to take care of ourselves. Drink water regularly, avoid going outdoors when it is the hottest time of the day, remember to apply sunscreen, and finally, take cool showers. We need to do our part and fight against global warming to protect the planet we live on. Save energy at home. Walk, bike or take public transport. We need to reduce, reuse, and recycle. These are ways to contribute to the fight against global warming. Do your part and save our planet for future generations to live on. Together we can do it. No matter how small or how big an action is!

Why Taylor Swift is so popular

From: Kate Tay Lin Xuan, Pri 5, Methodist Girls’ Primary
In the realm of contemporary music, few artists command the level of adoration and cultural influence as Taylor Swift (March 2024). From her early days as a country music sensation to her seamless transition into global pop stardom, Swift’s journey is not just one of musical evolution but also a profound exploration of what it means to connect deeply with an audience.

Swift’s enduring popularity can be attributed to several key factors that highlight her unique position in the music industry today. Firstly, her authenticity and ability to forge a genuine connection with her fans have been pivotal. Through candid lyrics and personal storytelling, she has invited listeners into her world, creating a sense of intimacy that transcends mere celebrity status.

Musically, Swift’s versatility has been a cornerstone of her appeal. Her transition from country roots to mainstream pop has not only broadened her audience but also allowed her to continually evolve artistically. Each album represents a new chapter in her life, capturing universal themes of love, heartbreak, and self-discovery with an emotional depth that resonates universally.

I enjoy PE lessons

From: Vasudevan Sanskrithi, Pri 6, Mayflower Primary
I really enjoy Physical Education lessons because it is very fun-filled, and I can play with my friends. We also learn how to play new sports and keep fit at the same time. It is really important to exercise regularly as it helps us maintain a healthy body, mind, and soul.

Upcycling helps the environment

Isabelle Goh Xuwen, Pri 6, Opera Estate Primary
Upcycling is a great way to turn useless junk into treasure. As the saying goes, one man’s trash is another man’s treasure. I think King Charles is brilliant for suggesting that his old curtains be sewn into fashionable kimonos (January 2024). This way, he killed two birds with one stone. He not only gave the curtains a new life but also raised money to donate to charity. Isn’t that amazing?

Many of us might think that we need to do something as significant as what the king did to make an impact, and that all other efforts are useless. However, we don’t need to take such big actions. Instead, we can start small. For example, we can upcycle by turning our old jeans into a bag or using toilet paper rolls to make a pencil holder.

Although these small actions may not seem like they will make a huge difference, if we all do our part in upcycling, it will add up to help save the environment. Let’s all start upcycling today!

Tips to limit screen time

From: Ria Sarda, Pri 6, Opera Estate Primary
Screens can be addictive (January 2024). We may sit down in front of the computer to watch a few videos, and before we know it, hours have gone by. Prolonged screen time can harm our eyes, and with scams on the rise, online activities can also be dangerous. Here are a few ways I try to cut down on the negative effects of my screen time.

Firstly, I put all screens away when studying. This helps me focus and prevents the temptation to start watching videos in the middle of studying. Secondly, when I do have to use the computer for homework or extra revision, I set a timer. After one hour, if I haven’t completed my work, I take a break before coming back. This prevents my eyes from hurting.

Lastly, when I really want to watch something online for entertainment, I use the if/then technique. I say to myself, “If I want to watch for more than 30 minutes, then I will go outside instead.” This helps me avoid screen addiction.

Mixed feelings about ban

From: Elsabeth Goh, Pri 6, Sembawang Primary
When I first read the article “Is Eating Dog Meat OK?” (April 2024), I had mixed feelings about whether banning dog meat was reasonable. I agree with those who believe dogs should be kept as pets, not as food. The way dogs are killed is inhumane and harsh.

However, I feel that the ban will have a significant impact on the people selling dog meat. These sellers depend on their sales for a living. Even though the government promises to help them financially when the ban is implemented in 2027, I think they will still feel upset, as selling dog meat has been their livelihood for their entire lives. When the ban is enforced, they may not know what other occupations to pursue.

Perhaps if the treatment of the dogs became more humane and they were allowed to live in comfortable and hygienic conditions, people might consider normalising eating dog meat.

Why not dogs?

From: Han Min Toe, Pri 6, Sembawang Primary
With reference to “Is eating dog meat OK” (April 2024), in my opinion, it really depends on the purpose for which dog meat is sold.

One reason is that it has become a legacy, passed down through many generations. Another reason is that some sellers earn their livelihood by selling dog meat. If they don’t manage to sell it, they might not have enough money for daily essentials. Some say that people ate dog meat to remember the Korean War when food was scarce and expensive.

Another reason to question the disdain for the slaughter of dogs for meat is that the slaughter of cows for meat is considered acceptable. The main issue here is the “pretty privilege” of dogs. This reflects a societal tendency where some are excused for their beauty and looks while others are treated horribly because they look unsightly. Therefore, the extreme disdain for dog meat is questionable.

Choosing the right school

From: Anna Dong Jingyuan, Pri 6, Fuchun Primary
It is understandable that many parents want their children to succeed and attend a school with a good reputation. However, that may not always be the best approach. Pressuring a student to excel may leave them more stressed and frustrated when learning. A student may not be competent in a certain area, so forcing them to study hard to join a school may undermine their confidence, especially when compared to peers who excel naturally in that area.

Some students are better in academics, while others excel in music, art, or sports. If students join a school where they are not strong in the focus area, they may feel inadequate and stressed, thinking, “Everyone is better than me; my presence is useless here.” Parents shouldn’t force their child to pursue a subject they lack passion for, as this can waste opportunities for their true talents to shine. Students should have the freedom to choose a school that nurtures their passions and talents.

Not being strong in academics doesn’t mean a student is bad. The student is likely to excel in another area. Ultimately, it will contribute to the community in the future. It depends on what is best for the student.

Everyone should do their best. This will showcase their full capability and what they can achieve. Everyone is unique and has different talents. Give all students the freedom to pursue their passions. Everyone has dreams and plans.

Show everyone your ability and prove yourself to the world.

I love PE!

From: Gng En Ya, Pri 6, Nan Chiau Primary
I really enjoy physical education lessons because it is very fun, and I can play with my friends. We also learn how to play new sports and keep fit at the same time. It is really important to exercise regularly as it helps us maintain a healthy body, mind, and soul.

The power of gratitude

From: Kayley Chew, Pri 5, Nanyang Primary
Gratitude is the practice of acknowledging and being thankful for the positive aspects of life. It has been shown to improve mental well-being, increase happiness, and enhance relationships. By expressing gratitude for even the smallest things, we can shift our perspective and cultivate a more positive mindset. Research suggests that regularly practicing gratitude can lead to numerous benefits, such as reduced stress, improved sleep, and increased resilience. So, take a moment each day to reflect on what you are grateful for, and experience the transformative power of gratitude.

Being grateful for school

From: Alexi Lin, Pri 3, Tao Nan Primary
You probably have heard people say that school stands for “Six Cruel Hours Of Our Lives”. This is definitely bad, as it destroys our learning attitude. Furthermore, teachers work hard to help us by marking, correcting, and printing worksheets. We should be grateful, and not mock them. I hope that this bad behaviour stops, and we could be more grateful.

Climate change is harmful

From: Ng Ze Qi, Pri 6, Fuchun Primary
Climate change refers to long-term shifts in temperature, precipitation patterns, sea levels, and other aspects of the Earth’s climate system. These shifts are driven by the burning of fossil fuels, deforestation, and industrial processes.

Some of the consequences of climate change include extreme weather events, rising temperatures, melting ice, rising sea levels, loss of biodiversity, and severe economic disruption. If we do not stop climate change, our future generations might have less food available, there will be health problems, and it will be harder to go outside without worrying about floods or heatwaves.

Self-worth ≠ your results

From: Zeph Chia, Pri 5, Anglo Chinese School (Junior)
My heart palpitated wildly and there were butterflies in my stomach at the start of the bite-sized (weighted) assessment. A million thoughts flashed through my mind. Would I fail? Would I be careless? Would the paper be difficult?

During the assessments, I remembered the often-repeated mantra of my teacher, Mr Andy, and my mother: “The Bite-Sized Papers or any other examination do not define you.”

My abnormal heartbeat slowed down to a steady throb, and I told myself: “I can do it!” At long last, the teacher announced, “Pens down!” My breath was shallow, and a niggling self-doubt was at the back of my head: What if I wasn’t careful? At that moment, I recalled another oft repeated phrase of the trusted adults: “Your self-worth is not dependent on your results.”

The self-doubt was dispelled immediately, and my shallow breaths became deep and satisfying.

Tips to get healthy

From: Jervelle Feng LeXuan, Pri 5, Sembawang Primary
I’ve noticed that many people around me are very often either using their electronic devices to play games, watch YouTube, or text. I used to be someone always glued to the phone screen, which eventually led to my poorer eyesight. So, if you don’t want to end up like me, here are some tips to help motivate you to do things that will make your body healthier.

First, spend time with family and friends. This helps you build closer relationships with them and avoid being glued to your phone or computer screen.

Second, read. Reading helps you improve your language and gain knowledge and is a great alternative to screentime.

Finally, go outside for nature walks or activities. Outdoor activities help you learn about nature and feel the cool fresh breeze. Moreover, physical activity helps you stay active and healthy.

I hope these tips are helpful!

Let’s celebrate our differences

From: Zhu Yuncheng, Pri 6, Nanyang Primary
Imagine this: You are of a different race from everyone around you. People laugh at you, make fun of you, exclude you from activities. No one is willing to help you.

How would you feel when you see people of other races getting bullied or mistreated? Do you ever stand up to help them? Or do you just walk away and pretend that nothing ever happened? I have witnessed numerous instances of discrimination in our community.

Do you think that is right? Obviously not! So, why don’t we take action? Is it because we are scared or afraid, or is it just because we feel like it is not worth our time to do so? All these are excuses. We all have a role to play in addressing discrimination in the community so that everyone is treated fairly. We are in a community where everyone is different. Everyone deserves respect and love, everyone is important. It is like a pack of coloured pencils, each one is different, but they are all beautiful and make up all the colours!

Let us all celebrate each other’s differences, respect everyone’s rights, and create a community where everyone is loved.

Stop eating dog meat

From: Koh En Xi, Pri 6, Sembawang Primary
I am writing in response to “Is eating dog meat OK?” (April 2024). In my opinion, I think dog meat should not be eaten. After reading the text, I realised that the dogs are cruelly slaughtered by electrocutions and by hanging as well! Although people believe that they help with our body, they still should not be tortured. Just like humans, would you want to kill and eat your family, friends, teachers, and classmates? In addition, there are also other types of food for you to have nutrition and vitamins. Anyways, dogs are our companions and a man’s best friend. Without them, we would never get over stuff like depression and anxiety. Dogs help us in a lot of ways. In summary, you should not eat dog meat!

My favourite book

From: Mischa Melati Mohamad Fareed Saslee, Pri 5, Qihua Primary
One of my favourite books currently is Tuesdays with Morrie. Tuesdays with Morrie offers profound lessons on life, love, and mortality. Through the relationship between Morrie Schwartz and Mitch Albom, it explores the essence of human connection and the importance of living authentically. This book serves as a poignant reminder to cherish every moment, embrace vulnerability, and prioritise what truly matters. Its enduring significance lies in its ability to inspire introspection and provoke meaningful conversations about how we choose to live our lives. This book has changed the way I interact with others, and I hope others will be able to enjoy this magnificent read.

Happy Mother’s Day!

From: Vaidehi Ganu, Pri 6, Changkat Primary
I am very excited for Mother’s Day. Mothers are not celebrated enough in this world. In fact, every day should be Mother’s Day. Mothers cook, clean, take care of their children, and some even work. When a baby cries, its mother is the one to soothe him and calm him down. Mothers already have to multitask and be very flexible. They can easily adapt to sudden changes in plans.

We do not need to buy our mother an expensive gift, or a mug customised with her own name. She will be very happy if we are just a little bit considerate to her and help her out with chores around the house.

If you really insist on giving your mother something to show her how much she means to you, you can just make a simple but impactful card for your mother and give it to her. I assure you that she will be overjoyed upon receiving the card. Let’s celebrate mothers around the world!

Friendship is important

From: Dylan Lee, Pri 6, Tao Nan School
A few weeks ago, I observed an argument going on between two friends over a small matter. Harsh words were exchanged. However, amidst the tension, I noticed despite their disagreement, they eventually listened to each other, and eventually, their bond was stronger than before. At that moment, it dawned on me that true friendship is not about avoiding conflicts but tacking them together. It is about understanding, forgiveness, and support. In a world full of uncertainties, friends act as the lights that guide us through the darkness.

Climate refugee crisis

From: Lai Jun Xuan, Pri 6, Woodlands Ring Primary
With reference to “Living with climate change in Cambodia” (March 2024), climate change is creating a surge in climate refugees worldwide, forcing people to flee their homes due to extreme weather events and environmental degradation. These refugees face numerous challenges, including loss of homes and livelihoods, lack of legal recognition, and vulnerability to exploitation. Global action is urgently needed to mitigate climate change impacts, support vulnerable communities, and provide assistance to climate refugees. I feel bad for them. Let us all do our part to stop climate change, so there would be no more climate refugees fleeing their homes.

Studying can be fun!

From: Gloria Aurielle Soenjaya, Pri 5, Opera Estate Primary
Many students hate studying. Some even say that it is short for “student-dying”. I think studying can be fun if we try to enjoy it. I usually take short breaks after thirty minutes of studying. You do not have to force yourself to study too hard, it would add more stress which is not good for your health. You should also avoid studying until late night. And don’t be upset if you get bad marks. At least, you tried your best!

The dark side of social media

From: S Mohamed Nikmat, Pri 6, Telok Kurau Primary
Social media is a place where you go to share what you love with the world. However, social media can be dark place, where people get bullied and harassed. People may criticise you for what you love, how you look, and any other reason to harass or bully an innocent soul. People often lie, but on social media it is a whole other story. Influencers create fake images to get followers and likes. People see these fake images and aspire to be like them, but it is never going to happen, because they are fake! Staying safe online and on social media is very crucial. Tell a trusted adult or someone you can trust to help you if you are ever being harassed or bullied.

“No” to sea mining

From: Guo Xingfu, Pri 6, Changkat Primary
I am writing in response to “Should the deep sea be mined?”(February 2024). I feel that we should not mine the deep sea as doing so would harm the environment. There may be many delicate and rare species that are in the sea, and mining the sea may hurt them. Also, there may be undiscovered species deep in the sea, and we may cause them to go extinct unknowingly if we mine the sea. Sea mining can also lead to global warming, which is already a very large problem nowadays. I think that we can all do our part to ensure that we do not support deep sea mining, for the sake of a better planet and a better future.

School is important

From: Yip Yu Huen Jayden, Pri 5, Changkat Primary
Although some people think school is boring, it is very important to us. Some people might call people who like school “nerds”. But if schools do not exist, we will not learn anything. We will just laze around and do nothing. If we want to buy something, we will not even know how to count. If we want to communicate with each other, we will not even know how to speak properly. That is why I think school is important.

Put trash in the bin

From: Kyler Russell, Pri 6, Changkat Primary
Littering is a major problem for the earth, and it affects the environment that we live in. It makes public places dirty and not pleasant. Litter also affects animals and kills the fish in the sea and pollutes the air, land, and ocean. About 8 million tons of plastic waste end up in the ocean every year. It also affects the crops grown in farms. We should do our part by placing our trash in a trash bin. And if we see litter anywhere on the ground, we should pick it up and throw it into a bin.

Circus stars deserve better

From: Lauryn Gan Wan En, Pri 5, Methodist Girls’
I am writing in response to the article entitled ,”Mongolian circus stars leave home to perform around the world” (February 2024) . I felt quite angry and sad when I read this article.

As the students in the Mongolian Circus School work and practise so hard, I think they deserve a good training facility with proper equipment. However, the school is in a terrible state with its ceilings cracked and mouldy. I believe the government should support the school with their funds, so as to improve their training quality. Moreover, when Dagvadorj Dolgorsuren took over the circus, the performers often had to work without pay, and did not even have a proper venue for training! As a result, the performers were forced to find work abroad.

I feel that that is very unfair and sad for the Mongolians, as their culture, heritage, and even homes were taken away from them. I really hope that one day, they will be able to return to their country and continue performing at a better-quality circus.

Steps to slow climate change

From: Kashish Bansal, Pri 6, Changkat Primary
I was very shocked after reading the article “Melting ice, in two pictures” (January 2024). Climate change is happening faster and faster and we are not doing much about it. Where are the polar bears, penguins, seals, and many more creatures going to go? They do not have much of a home left. They are wandering further and further away from their homes in search for food. I cannot even begin to imagine how hungry and tired they are! Many more creatures are dying because they have nowhere to call home now.

What can we do about it? We cannot stop climate change, but we can slow it down by taking one step at a time. For example, we can implement the use of the 3R’s into our daily lives. We can reuse our plastic water bottles and recycle the recyclables if they cannot be reused. We can also reduce the amount of food we waste by asking for a smaller portion whenever we go out to buy food so that we only take how much we can finish. In addition, we can take public transport instead of taking the car. These are just a few ways we can contribute to reducing the rate of climate change.

Let’s start upcycling

From: Isabelle Goh Xuwen, Pri 6, Opera Estate Primary
Upcycling is a great way to turn useless junk into treasure. As the saying goes, one man’s trash is another man’s treasure. I think that King Charles is brilliant to suggest his old curtains be sewn into fashionable kimonos (January 2024). He not only gave the curtains new life but also raised money to donate to charity. Isn’t that amazing? Many of us might think that one must do what the king did to make an impact and all other ways are useless. However, we do not need to do such big actions like King Charles. Instead, we can start small, for example, by turning our old jeans into a bag or using toilet paper rolls to make a pencil holder. Although these small actions do not sound like it is going to make a huge difference, if we all do our part in upcycling, it will all add up to help save the environment. Let’s all start upcycling today!

Music has many benefits

From: Ethan Chen Hongfu, Pri 3, Tao Nan School
There are many ways that music can benefit us (February 2024). This includes calming us down, making us dance actively, and most of all, giving us a feeling of joy. For me, music benefits me as I am inspired by artistes like my favourite singer Taylor Swift. Sometimes, when I have a lot of homework, I also listen to music, which makes me work faster. For some people like me, listening to music can also make them less stressed. In a nutshell, listening to music can benefit us in many ways, though we should not listen to music non-stop.

Smart use of phones

From: Gloria Aurielle Soenjaya, Pri 5, Opera Estate Primary
Smartphones can do more harm than good when people use them too much (January 2024). Children and teenagers have brains that are still developing. Screen time may be shutting us off from real-life friendships and physical activities, both of which are good for stimulating healthy brain development. I also think that children engrossed with mobile gadgets cannot focus fully on their studies as they may choose to play their mobile gadgets instead of doing homework. Mobile phones can be useful. However, research also point to smartphones negatively affecting the health of children and being a huge distraction. We should time our use of mobile phones and use them only when needed. Do you think you can do it? I believe you can!

Pets need proper care

From: Tanush Pandit, Pri 6, Changkat Primary
I agree with the letter “Think before you buy” (February 2024) that while pets are nice to have, we should not impulse buy pets, as pets are living things that need to be properly fed and looked after. We should not abandon our pets just because they are causing problems for us, but we should put ourselves in their shoes. I am sure that they would want to be looked after properly and loved. We should also give our pets the right food so that they remain healthy. We should not buy illegal pets. Some pet owners are cruel to their pets as they beat up their pets or put them in cages or not give them food at the proper time. I hope that they would realise that pets are sentient creatures and would stop treating them cruelly. I hope everyone would think before buying or adopting a pet.

Be open to learning

Adele Chee Xiang Yi, Pri 5, Tao Nan School
Many people around the world think positively about Artificial Intelligence (AI) (January 2024). It helps us complete simple and repetitive tasks, learns and improves from the mistakes it makes, eliminates human error, increases efficiency, and ultimately, betters our lives. These all point to AI being a positive development for mankind. However, has one ever considered the pitfalls or how AI can, in the long run, affect us negatively?

AI will likely take over many human tasks and jobs, potentially leaving a large number of people out of jobs in the near future. It would require a significant amount of time and training for people to learn about AI and how to work hand in hand with AI. If we do not attempt to tackle these challenges early, they would likely snowball and may lead to societal problems where the rich and poor divide will worsen. In conclusion, the only way forward for all of us is to embrace technology and to stay nimble by being open to new ideas and to learn as we go along to be future ready.

I would rather karaoke

From: Liu Xinyan, Pri 5, Greendale Primary
Recently, there have been many cases of lip-syncing in the music industry (January 2024). Maybe it is easier for singers, especially when they need to sing and dance at the same time. However, some of them just stand firmly or sit on a chair to sing. Why do they still need to lip-sync?

Back to the 90’s, the whole K-pop industry was singing live and dancing the whole time. But, when it comes to the new generation, some idols started relying on the lip-syncing system. Some of their supporters think that it is totally fine as their choreography is too tiring for them to sing live in. However other supporters think that if idols do not sing live, why don’t we just watch videos at home instead of paying so much for a fake “live” concert?

As a concert enthusiast, if the singers were just lip-syncing, I would choose to go to a karaoke with my friends rather than pay all that money just to watch them dance and lip-sync!

I love rock climbing

From: Kashish Bansal, Pri 6, Changkat Primary
I enjoy reading the article “Indoor rock climbing is climbing in popularity” (February 2024). I am a rock-climbing enthusiast myself. Rock climbing is a sport that requires balance and skill and can benefit us in multiple ways. Some students like me find rock climbing a great way to destress.

Since I am taking my PSLE examination this year, I feel that there is a need to wind down occasionally as it benefits both our physical and mental health. When we do a sport that requires us to move a lot, our body releases a hormone called dopamine which makes us happy, calm, and refreshed. This helps us to pay more attention when studying.

Since rock climbing is a sport that is easy to learn, it is gaining popularity. We can also bond with our families when we do rock climbing together. On the other hand, maintenance of the equipment can be very costly. For example, the rubber soles of rock-climbing shoes can wear out very quickly. Also, making sure the gear is in tip-top condition can also cost a lot of money.

I want to be an animator

From: Natalie Kong, Pri 6, Nan Hua Primary
I am writing with reference to “The creative genius behind an animation masterpiece” (January 2024). Is being an animator challenging? A few years ago, I started to be interested in doing art and was slowly introduced to digital art by my school. I grew more and more interested along the way in drawing different characters, inspired by the different animes I had been watching. Watching animes makes me want to be an animator when I grow up, drawing the characters, and working in Studio Ghibli.

However, many people tell me that being an animator is very challenging. It is also one of the most challenging jobs to create three-dimensional pipelines! I love watching the many animes that Hayao Miyazaki created. Some common ones that everybody might know are My Neighbour Totoro, Spirited Away, and the most recent one, The Boy and The Heron. While watching each of these animes, I focus on the different details of each character.

Even with many people opposing me, I will still persevere in trying my best. During the school break, I practise using Procreate to draw different characters.
Being a creative genius animator is my lifelong dream, no matter how challenging it is.

Reading to improve our language

From: Louis Yasunaga, Pri 6, Mayflower Primary
When you think about reading a book, what is the first type of book that comes to your mind? Is it a graphic novel? As we progress to middle or upper primary school, composition examinations for the English Language will be introduced. We may need to put away simple graphic novels for younger children and start reading books that are more “advanced” and appropriate for our age group to improve our English.

Animals are part of our lives

From: Chow Zining, Pri 6, Fuchun Primary
We are in contact with many animals in our daily life. When we go for walks, we can see different creatures like birds, monkeys, insects, or even squirrels! Animals are so adorable and can look so cute — like the pictures I saw (in What’s Up) of a kangaroo that seems to be playing an air guitar, a snow-covered bird that looks like a snowball walking around, or even a “ballerina” otter! However many of these animals are starting to disappear around the world, we must appreciate them and admire them while we still can.

Schools are strict about phones

From: Amelia Ho, Pri 5, Methodist Girls’
Most schools in Singapore have strict rules on mobile phone usage in class, given that they can be a major source of distraction. And students may easily misuse phones for other purposes like circulating banned content in class. If anyone is found using phones during school hours, the phones may be kept by the school for a few months. Students who do this often may even have their phones retained for the remainder of the school year.

Smartphone ban is not the solution

From: Olivia Tan Kyi Shuen, Pri 6, Tao Nan School
I disagree with the article “No more smartphones for some school kids” (January 2024). As much as I would like a complete ban to be introduced in schools to reduce smartphone usage for students, there are many downsides to introducing a complete ban.

Many children need to communicate with their parents after school hours. If a ban is introduced, then parents will have a hard time making transport arrangements or having the peace of mind that their child is on the way home safely.

As neither a complete ban nor a hands-off approach is effective, I would find a middle ground between the two options. Rather than completely banning smartphones from schools, some rules could be imposed. As long as the smartphone is not used at all during school hours, students may bring their phones to school. This option can appease both parties with fair rules for all.

Smartphones are helpful

From: Bu Tze Hui, Pri 6, Fuchun Primary
I cannot say I agree with the article “No more smartphones for some school kids”(January 2024). Even though phones do lead to distractions, affecting students’ focus and productivity, they can not only be convenient communication tools, but also give access to useful information, educational apps, and resources that enhance learning experiences. Rather than having to travel from one place to another just to visit a friend, having a smartphone allows you to stay connected with loved ones and friends no matter where they are. In my view, as long as the child is able to restrain himself or herself from using the phone for a long period of time, he or she should still be able to own a smartphone.

Nurses deserve our appreciation

From: Chan Ee Shin, Pri 6, Maha Bodhi School
Nurses are underappreciated. They take care of patients and save lives. And they are subject to a higher risk of catching viruses, as well as bad treatment by families of patients or the public who fear catching germs from them. They deserve our care, and they have to take care of themselves as well. I really hope we will bring joy to them an brighten their day — by understanding the hardships they are go through and paying them what they deserve.

We all have a role

From: Ng Yi Fei, Pri 4, Qihua Primary
Why should we save the environment? Aren’t there other people who can do that? Everyone can play a part in their own way. Even a small act can make a big difference. Singapore is planning to plant a million trees over the next ten years and some schools have a programme called “Values in Action” that encourages students to clean litter from their neighbourhood. You can also do your part, like planting more plants and picking up and throwing away litter that you find. That way, we can all do our part to save the environment!

Don’t give up

From: Celest Oh Wen Xuan, Pri 5, Paya Lebar Methodist Girls’
Exams can be very stressful, and most people hate them. Exams are not meant to make us sad. They are meant to assess how much we have learnt and the areas we need to improve in.

I think that we should not be upset about having to sit for examinations. We are very fortunate to have a chance to study. In some places, children do not have a chance to learn as they do not have money to go to school, or they do not have a good school environment to learn.

If we fail our exams, we should not just cry about it and do nothing. Instead, we should keep revising. We will succeed one day! We should also remember to thank our teachers as they put in a lot of effort to help us, and they try their best to make their lessons more fun for us to learn. Do remember that if we are not paying attention in class and do not hand in our homework on time, it is not your teacher’s fault. It is your own fault as it your responsibility. We all should be grateful for everything we have. Never give up! We can do it!

Be aware of scams

From: Yumul Steven Roy Santos, Pri 6, Changkat Primary
Many children are exploring the digital world without any parental guidance, and it makes it easier for scammers to target children. Scammers try to lure people to give them money or their personal information. Scams come in different types such as pop-up advertisements, phishing scams, and many more.

What are pop-up ad scams? Pop-up ad scams try to trick you into clicking on an ad that looks too good to be true. What are phishing scams? Phishing scams come in an email or a message, and the sender pretends to be someone they are not, like a relative of yours or a manager of a big company that is hiring people or a game that you are playing that says that you are going to be banned if you don’t follow their instructions. And they will then lure you into giving them your money and more.

What do we do to prevent these scams? For a pop-up ad, you can just close the ad or report it. For the fishing scams, you can either ignore the email or report them.

Unglue from your phone!

From: Chong En Qi, Samantha, Pri 6, Paya Lebar Methodist Girls’
I feel that people are becoming more obsessed with their phones nowadays. We should not be glued to our phones as spending too much time on phones will sometimes interfere with learning, relationships, family time, physical activity, and sleep. It might also affect both the physical and mental health of an individual. Too much time spent on our phones is not good.

Being tolerant

From: Jain Nirvi, Pri 6, CHIJ Our Lady of Good Counsel
Tolerance is defined in the dictionary as “the willingness to tolerate a person or thing” and tolerate means “permitting without protest or interference” or “bear something”. Being humble is also related to tolerance. Being humble requires tolerance towards even those you do not like. When we can accept others, we grow closer to them slowly. And, as you know them well, the bond becomes unbreakable. Tolerant people are also patient as well. Tolerating people is a key to peaceful life as it teaches you to be humble, patient, and compassionate. I am grateful to my family and friends who have accepted me the way I am.

Be a supportive friend

From: Fan Xue Yao, Jacelyn, Pri 6, Changkat Primary
We should learn how to identify and deal with the emotions of our friends and classmates. Instead of being inconsiderate, insensitive, and apathetic, we can be supportive and kind and try our best to empathise with our friends to make our schools a more positive and happier learning environment. In my opinion, we should never treat our friends badly, especially when they are already feeling low. Instead, we should support them and try using the CHEER model which involves:

Calming your peers when they are angry or upset,
Hearing your peers out,
Empathising with them and being a friend.
Encouraging them to seek help, and
Refer to a trusted adult for help.

Most importantly, do not make things worse for them than it already is. When your peers are upset, please do not make them more upset.

ChatGPT: pros and cons

From: Kian Nizami, Pri 6, Opera Estate Primary
ChatGPT is useful in helping us to check for grammar, punctuation, and spelling errors. However, using ChatGPT to do our homework is cheating. And we will get caught by the teacher when ChatGPT uses words we do not actually know. Reliance on ChatGPT can also be quite addictive, causing us to use it for all our homework. We will end up not learning anything and we might fail at exams.

Let’s not waste food

From: Wang Ziyuan, Pri 6, Changkat Primary
Although you might not notice, we are very often wasting food. For example, every time we go to a restaurant, we may take the food we cannot finish back home but we tend to forget about them and throw them away after they turn bad. At hawker centres, many people cannot finish the food they buy and just leave the food or throw it away. Now, if you think about it, the food we waste piled up can feed many people who do not have enough money to buy food. If we buy the portion just enough for us, we can donate the extra money to the poor! If everyone plays a part in reducing food wastage, the problem of hunger around the world might be greatly relieved.

Take care of your eyes

From: Angelo Lim Chen Yu, Pri 5, Sembawang Primary
During the school holidays, children use their phones, tablets, and computers a lot. Too much screen time can cause digital eye strain and myopia. Wearing glasses can be hard as they can be uncomfortable. So here are three tips to prevent myopia:
1. Don’t spend too much time on your devices. Instead, set a daily screen time limit of 30 minutes.
2. Spend more time doing other activities such as sports, reading, and spending time with family.
3. Have a good rest and get at least 9 to 10 hours of sleep.
Remember to take good care of your eyes!

Tips for staying safe online

From: Cabrera Maya Noelle Aquino, Pri 6, Changkat Primary
As the number of online users increases, the number of people falling for scams also increases. At the same time, scams are also evolving, becoming harder to distinguish. Scams come in many forms, such as calls from robots, emails, fake websites, and advertisements that pop up on your screen which require you to give your personal information for deals too good to be true.

So as primary school students, what can we do to protect ourselves? Firstly, we must know what we should look out for. We should look out for misspelled words or very small changes in the email account usernames that are different from the real one, an unnecessarily urgent tone, a need for personal information, files with the ending “.exe”, and deals which sound too good to be true.

If we are using our parent’s or someone else’s account or device, we have high chances of receiving emails or calls from numbers or people we do not know. If the person who owns the device or the account is not at home, we should take down the number of the person who has called us or emailed us and alert our parents about the call or email.

If we are using our own device, we should ask our parents or guardian to help us update the apps and get an app that can help us block certain numbers and emails. We should also do deeper research and see if you can find the same deals in the real app. We should also never meet up with someone we do not know in-person even though they seem like someone we can trust. If we are still unsure, we should always ask for help. Let us stay safe online together.

An attitude of gratitude

From: Advay Sikka, Pri 5, Opera Estate Primary
Gratitude means being thankful for things we have. In my opinion, we should always be grateful for what we have by displaying an attitude of gratitude. I am grateful for my parents, friends, teachers. My parents are supportive of what I do. My friends are people I can count on, and they are the people I talk to when I need help. My teachers help me with topics I do not understand in the various subjects. All in all, I am thankful for everything and everyone I have and know.

Homework is necessary

From: Katelyn Teo, Pri 5, Tao Nan School
Most students receive a lot of homework assigned by their teachers each day. Do you wish that you had no homework every day? However, there are cons of not having homework. Teachers give us homework because there is not enough time to finish all the work in class. If teachers do not give us homework, we will be too overwhelmed in class. The school day may also have to be extended for us to be able to complete all the classwork if there is too much work!

So, the next time your teachers assign homework, keep in mind the cons of not having homework and stop complaining. If you need more time to complete all your homework, you can ask your teachers to extend the deadline.

Mending broken friendships

From: Aarika Banerjee, Pri 5, Haig Girls School
Friendship issues are probably more common after the COVID epidemic. When the COVID epidemic was over, and you see your friend again, you might feel like you do not even know that friend anymore, especially when they too have formed new friendships. So here are some tips to mend a broken friendship:
Give your friend some time, they might just need some space to breathe.

Try to talk about the problem to figure it out, maybe it was a misunderstanding.
Try to understand where the other person is coming from, be in their shoes.

Lastly, not all friendships will last forever, so it is okay if the other person wants to call off the friendship. If you feel like your friend is manipulating or using you, remember that is not okay, and try to talk to a trusted adult or get help from a helpline such as Tinkle Friend.

I love Bird Paradise

From: Wazir Anas Bin Ahsanul Kalam, Pri 6, Fuchun Primary
The newly opened Bird Paradise is a very famous new tourist attraction in Singapore. The park contains eight walk-through aviaries — the Australian Outback, Mysterious Papua, Lory Loft, Song of the Forests, Amazonian Jewels, Crimson Wetlands, Wings of Asia, and Heart of Africa. The Winged Sanctuary and Penguin Cove must also not be missed.

Personally, my favourites are the Wings of the Asia because of its recreations of the rice paddy fields, and the Winged Sanctuary which houses many endangered hornbills such as the Rhinoceros Hornbills and Black Hornbills.

Every visit there makes my day, and I am overjoyed. I will always look forward to my next visit there.

Showing gratitude

Katari Driya, Pri 6, Opera Estate Primary
To have gratitude means appreciating whatever we have. And, people deserve to be thanked for all the ways they help us no matter how small they might be. We need to express how we value their actions by showing them how grateful we are. Gratitude makes this world a much brighter and happier place. We must never forget the value of gratitude.

Every day I thank God for giving me so many good friends. They are kind, trustworthy, and honest. It is very rare to find such genuine friends these days and I feel lucky to have them all. I am also grateful for my family. Family is always number one to me. Without them I would not even be here today. I love them so much.

Last but not least, I am grateful for my teachers. In Primary 1, I could not even read or write nor was I able to count how much money I had! All in all, I am grateful to all those who have made an impact in my life.

From: Deborah Ng Rae En, Pri 6, Tao Nan School
After reading “The diary of a young Ukrainian refugee” (March 2023), I feel a great deal of empathy for the girl portrayed in the story. The realities of war can be difficult for many of us to understand, and some people may even view war as a trivial matter.

However, I firmly believe that war is a frightening and traumatic experience that nobody should ever have to endure. The devastating effects of war can result in the loss of loved ones and homes in a single day.

The article illustrated how Yeva Skalietska’s once happy life was forever altered by the war. Despite this, she is still able to maintain a positive outlook, which I find both admirable and inspiring. I am eager to read her book to learn more about her experiences and gain a better understanding of what war truly entails. It is important to appreciate the safety and security of our lives in Singapore and not take it for granted. Who knows when war may strike, and we must always be prepared.

Math is not “scary”

From: Lai Siu Wei, Pri 4, Sembawang Primary
I know there are many students who hate math, and they say that math stands for “mental abuse to humans”. But, I disagree with what they say. Math will not be scary or hard if you keep on practicing. Your hard work will pay off for sure. Math can be viewed as problem games. And in our future jobs, we would need to have our mathematical skills

Vaping is harmful

From: Ropheka Joyce Khoo Rui Shan, Pri 6, CHIJ Kellock
Teenage vaping has become increasingly concerning among Singaporeans. Did you know vaping could be even more harmful than (tobacco) smoking? It is harmful to both our bodies and minds. It can harm the parts of our brain that control attention, mood, and impulse. If you are caught vaping, you could be fined! If you know of someone who is vaping, tell a trusted adult and help them overcome their addiction. Support them in any way possible. Remember, we have to be vigilant and help one another by lending a listening ear when needed or lending a hand to those in need.

Benefits of having pets

From: Roseann Boby, Pri 4, West Spring Primary
Pets can play an important role in our lives. Having pets helps us develop our sense of responsibility, reduces stress, loneliness, anxiety, and even depression. Studies show that pet owners suffer less from problems related to stress and anxiety. Being with animals often makes people happy and relaxed.

Keeping pets can lead to a healthier life as pets can help people get a reprieve from loneliness in life and manage their mental health. And there are therapy animals that are useful for people with mental health issues. Some trained animals also help people with visual impairment. In addition, regularly walking with pets, training them, or playing with pets can reduce blood pressure and cholesterol levels for young and old alike.

Some may ask if it is worth spending time taking care of pets in light of our hectic academic responsibilities. While caring for pets is time-consuming, the tasks that we need to undertake to keep our pets healthy and happy will teach us many values in life. Because pets must be fed regularly and in a timely manner, taking care of pets would make students more responsible in their studies as well. In short, having pets can keep us happy and healthy.

Homework has its benefits

From: Nathaniel Lee, Pri 6, ACS Junior
As a young student in primary school, I struggled with ever-increasing amount of homework. But, I have come to realise that optional assignments can accelerate our academic progress. Take for example an extra assignment my English teacher gave us — at first, I wondered why we had to annotate our compositions. But, after I completed it, I realised that this seemingly unimportant task had actually greatly improved my command of language and vocabulary.

Thus, I suggest to my fellow students that we change how we feel about optional assignments. There are many benefits in completing these assignments. Let’s approach these assignments with an open mind — seeing them as tools to improve our knowledge, rather than dismissing them off hand. We have the power to shape our own learning paths as students.

ChatGPT: the good and the bad

From: Amelia D’arcy Mcinally, Pri 6, Opera Estate Primary
ChatGPT can have both positive and negative effects on learning. It can help us, but it can also become a negative influence on learning. On the positive side, ChatGPT can provide instant access to a vast amount of information on a wide range of topics. It can help users quickly find answers to their questions, explore new ideas, and deepen their understanding of various subjects.

We can use ChatGPT to further enhance our learning. For example, if we write a composition, we can upload it to ChatGPT and get it to check our spelling and grammar to help better ourselves. ChatGPT can also adapt to individual needs and provide personalised learning experiences. It can visualise your learning style and provide tailored explanations, examples, and practice exercises.

On the more negative side, if users of ChatGPT become too dependent on it for information and answers, they may neglect critical thinking and research skills. Relying solely on ChatGPT can affect independent learning and the development of problem-solving abilities. Also, using ChatGPT too much can affect your ability to interact with people around you. Using this AI chatbot may stunt your ability to think properly and it can have negative effects on your brain.

However, if you use this AI chatbot responsibly, it can be an effective and helpful companion in learning. Personally, I have nothing against ChatGPT or other chatbots, but I definitely do not think we should abuse this helper we have been given by overusing it.

How to manage PSLE stress

From: Rhea Bajaj, Pri 6, CHIJ Kellock
I am sure everyone is familiar with the PSLE examination. For some primary 6 pupils, just hearing the name of this exam sends chills down their spines. I feel that people are taking too much stress upon themselves which is very harmful to health. Here are some helpful tips that may reduce stress and maximise the effectiveness of your study time.

Firstly, do not set unrealistic goals that are too high for yourself. This will cause unnecessary stress. Set smart and attainable goals. Secondly, take a five-minute break after every 40 minutes of studies. This will allow you to rest and recharge for your next study session so that you can learn efficiently. Lastly, do not think much about getting high scores, going to a top-notch school or being better than your peers while preparing. Study for the joy of learning and love what you do. This will help you understand the topics better and help you perform to the best of your abilities without taking on stress.

I wish everyone all the best for the PSLE!

ChatGPT can make learning English easier

From: Scarlett Paris Yap, Pri 6, Methodist Girls’
After reading “How ChatGPT may transform learning” (April 2023), I think that ChatGPT has the potential to revolutionise the way English is taught in primary schools in Singapore. With this advanced technology, students will have instant access to answers to their language-related queries anytime, anywhere.

Moreover, ChatGPT can provide students with personalised learning experiences tailored to their unique learning styles and preferences. This approach will enable students to learn at their own pace, making the learning process more effective and efficient.

ChatGPT’s conversational capabilities will encourage students to ask questions, develop their critical thinking skills, and language proficiency in a fun and interactive way. This approach will help students build their confidence in speaking English, a critical skill in the globalised world we live in.

ChatGPT’s AI-powered technology can learn and adapt to each student’s unique learning style and preferences. It can provide personalised feedback and recommendations based on a student’s performance and progress, making it easier to identify areas where students need additional support or guidance.

One significant advantage of ChatGPT is its ability to provide instant feedback on grammar and syntax. Students can correct their mistakes as they go without the need for an expensive private tutor, making it a more cost-effective solution to English language learning. As AI technology continues to evolve and improve, so too will ChatGPT, providing an even more effective and efficient learning experience. Students will be able to learn English in a way that suits their individual needs and pace.

Ways to reduce plastic waste

From: Aishwarya Shruthika, Pri 6, CHIJ Our Lady of Good Counsel
We probably have seen banners, posters or signs that remind people to reuse, reduce or recycle plastic. Yet, some people do not make an effort to save the planet at all. Instead, they do the exact opposite, putting our planet in more danger.

The process of making plastics itself harms the environment as it releases carbon dioxide which is a major contributor to global warming. It also depletes raw materials such as fossil fuels. And, after we use the plastic products, we throw them away irresponsibly and they end up in lakes, rivers, and other water bodies. The animals living in the water may eat the plastics, thinking that they are food and choke on it and die. Sometimes, it affects us too if we happen to eat the animal which died due to choking on plastic.

We must make an effort to practice the 3 Rs: reuse, reduce and recycle. Even small steps are significant. As the saying goes, “Many small droplets make a big ocean.” We should (1) reuse plastic if it is reusable in anyway, (2) reduce the amount of plastics we use, (3) use products which are made of bio-degradable materials, and (4) recycle plastic to make it useful for some other things. If we do not make an effort now, it will affect us as we are the future generation. We should also not pass the problem to future generations to handle. It is still not too late to turn things around.

Should Singapore tap on nuclear energy?

From: Samarth Satija, Pri 5, Opera Estate Primary
A recent report published by the Energy Market Authority identified nuclear energy as a potential power source for Singapore as we try to decarbonise and achieve our target of reaching net-zero.

Nuclear energy, once found unsuitable for Singapore, has been identified as a potential power source for the country by 2050. Nuclear technology has improved since then. Newer nuclear power plant designs are being developed and tested in major countries. It has the potential to be much safer than many of the plants that are in operation today.

However, the problem is that nuclear power plants use radioactive materials. If any of these materials were to leak, it could cause lots of harm to the people living around it. But, if the new power plants being built are safe enough, nuclear energy could still be an option for Singapore, but it will take time.

Other than nuclear power, there is wind, solar, and hydro power. As one type is not enough to provide energy for the whole country, Singapore can encourage people to get solar panels built on their roofs, build wind turbines all across the island, and use lakes and reservoirs to produce hydro energy. All in all, I would say that Singapore can build nuclear power plants one day, but we will have to wait for the nuclear power plants to become safer and better developed first.

I applaud the kung-fu nuns

From: Amanda Chan Zi Xuan, Pri 5, Taonan School
After reading “The kung fu nuns of Nepal” (May 2023), I am amazed to see the nuns stepping up to do what they want and fighting against restrictions. I also felt grateful for Jigme Pema Wangchen for acting against gender inequality and for helping the nuns. When I saw how hard the nuns worked to help other people, I was touched as the nuns still helped the people who abused them. I feel that all genders should be treated equally, and I hope people continue to rise against gender inequality.

Technology can help or hurt

From: Chervelle Lim Zhi Qi, Pri 6, Tao Nan School
Technology has benefitted mankind tremendously. From aiding in medical research and optimising the workplace to reducing waste and pollution, technology has been a great help to everyone all around the world.

However, there is always the other side of the coin. For example, ever since the pandemic began, research has shown that on average, people have been spending two additional hours per day in front of a screen. Technology has also had a negative impact on our health and well-being. Many people now experience eyestrain, bad posture, and screen fatigue.

In conclusion, technology can be our friend or foe. Technology can be a positive force as long as we use it right. If we harness it the right way, technology will open the door to opportunities we have never had before.

Reduce plastic pollution

From: Mishka Khadolia, Pri 5, Opera Estate Primary
We should stop throwing plastic into water bodies. Not only does it harm the living creatures who live underwater, but it also pollutes the water that we drink. Around 12–14 million tons of plastic are disposed in water bodies per year. By 2050, there will be more plastic in the oceans than fish by weight.

Instead of throwing away plastic water bottles, we can repurpose them — like, by making them into pencil holders or bowling pins. Or, you can recycle them. There are blue recycling bins all around Singapore to encourage us to recycle.

One more way you can help prevent plastic water bottles entering water bodies is by bringing along your own reusable bottle. Remember, reuse, reduce and recycle!

Let’s stop water pollution

From: Steffi Rallabandi Ye Shi Yuan, Pri 6, Changkat Primary
Water pollution is the contamination of water bodies. It is usually a result of human activities. Water pollution is a serious matter as it can affect most of the living things on this planet. We have to stop polluting our waters.

We can do our part to prevent water pollution by not throwing our trash into waters and throwing them into dustbins instead. We can also help and pick up litter around waters and beaches so that the trash wash away into the water.

Let’s all work and stop water pollution together.

If you fail, try again!

From: Karys Ong Wen Xuan, Pri 5, CHIJ Our Lady of the Nativity
Have you failed at something before? Most of us probably would have cried and thought we cannot get over it. That is normal. Some of us may think that we are failures who will never ever succeed no matter how hard we try. We have to stop having a fixed negative mindset that makes us think that we are too dumb, or we will never succeed. By thinking like this, we are assuming that we cannot do it. We do not even know if we do not try!

Think positively and it can boost our mood, shape our life, and our performance in our daily life at school or work. If we fail, we must learn to pick ourselves up, and continue to work towards our goal. Failing means that there might have been a mistake. And we must try to see that we can use this mistake to know how to improve from where we are. Some negative people use mistakes wrongly — they think that the mistake is a judgment of themselves. Based on this mistake, they judge themselves and believe that they are not good. In fact, a mistake or failure just means that we are not up to that standard yet. One day, we may get there.

Let’s think with a growth mindset where we constantly encourage ourselves to strive better and never give up. Instead of criticising ourselves, maybe we can ponder how we can improve or the reason we failed and work from there. We can shape our life by making the right choices.

Cigarette smoke lingers

From: Yim Tze-Qi Kayleigh, Pri 5, Tao Nan School
Do you know anyone who smokes? Smoking in Singapore is a very common sight. It smells, doesn’t it? Why do so many people smoke? There is an addictive substance in cigarettes called nicotine. Nicotine affects people’s brains. Smoking also fills the airways with harmful irritants. Long-term smoking can lead to cancer. Not only does smoking affect the smoker, it also affects people around the smoker.

Others are affected as a result of breathing in smoke breathed out by smokers. Second-hand smoke exposure can cause heart diseases, stroke, lung cancer, and many other health problems. The problem with second-hand smoke is that you cannot help breathing in the smoke. You won’t know that it is coming until you smell the smoke or see the smoker.

Second-hand smokers are affected by tobacco lingering in the air long after a smoker leaves. This tobacco also remains on the clothing of people who come in contact with smoke. Long exposure to second-hand smoke can increase hyperactivity.

If you know anyone who smokes, you should try to tell him or her to quit smoking. If we all work together, we can minimise smoking in Singapore and make our earth a better place to live in!

Time to face the music

From: Rebecca Seow, Pri 6, Methodists Girl’s School
I am writing with reference to the story, “Police arrest Donald Trump for secretly paying money to cover up his bad behaviour” (April 2023). I believe what Mr Trump has done is not only illegal, but also very irresponsible.

We should not try to run away from our faults and cover them up, but should instead face the music and bear the consequences of our actions. Being the president does not mean you can do whatever you want. Being the president does not mean you are above the law. Not only that, but presidents should also act as a role model for the citizens in the country they are in.

I hope in the future Mr Trump will acknowledge his wrongdoings and accept his punishment.

Cherish our memories

From: Pyae Pyae, Pri 6, East Spring Primary
Life is full of ups and downs, and we should cherish those memorable times in life. Memories are part of who we are, and we should therefore cherish them.

We need to cherish these memories as we will never be able to turn back time to relive them. Moreover, whenever we feel down or start to doubt ourselves, we can look back on these memories to appreciate how far we have come. It makes us happy and nostalgic to recall memories that are special to us and gives us a sense of belonging.

I especially think it is important to cherish the memories we make with our friends because we may drift away from them later. After all, not all friendships last forever. Hence, we should cherish these memories we make with our friends as they are like invisible little keepsakes to help us remember the people we used to be friends with. There are many ways for us to keep memories, for example, taking pictures, writing journals, and buying souvenirs.

Managing our homework

From: Loong Wan Ching, Primary 6, Haig Girls’ School
Managing homework can be challenging, especially during exam periods. When you have a lot of homework, it could lead to a high level of stress and may cause anxiety or panic attacks.

These mental challenges do not just cause sleeplessness but could also have a big impact on your emotions, health, diet, and even physical health. If you are not able to cope with your homework, you can try one of these two tips. Firstly, if you have a lot of homework and you are not able to cope with it, you can try to have a heart-to-heart talk with your teacher or parents.

If they do not have the time to talk to you, you can try an alternative step — talk to your school counsellor. Although you might feel awkward and uncomfortable at first, be assured you can talk about anything that you need to talk about. This communication is confidential, and your school counsellor will be able to help you manage your stress in many ways that might suit you. You don’t have to be ashamed to seek help whenever you are in need.

In addition, to manage your time, you can try to create a timetable. Always remember to add short breaks as it is important to give yourself time to balance studying and resting. No matter how much homework you have, make sure to do small things that make you happy because they also have a big impact on your life.

Adopt a pet

From: Chong En Qi, Samantha, Pri 5, Paya Lebar Methodist Girls’
Many people buy pets without thinking. It is better to adopt pets because animal shelters cannot afford to house all of them with their limited spaces. When you plan to get a pet, choose to adopt instead.

Not only will you provide a pet with a second chance for a better home, but you also free up shelter space for another pet’s desperate need. Many pets at animal shelters are not adopted simply because they are older and potential pet owners view younger pets as cuter. Some people want a pet as they think it is cute. But after a while, the owners feel that they do not have enough time to take care of the pet and decide to abandon it.

Taking care of a pet takes time, and some owners do not think this through enough when they buy their pets. I hope that people will think carefully about buying a pet.

Make a healthier choice

From: Sabrina Kok, Pri 5, Opera Estate Primary
According to WHO guidelines, adults are recommended to reduce their daily intake of sugars to less than 10 per cent of their total energy intake. Eating too much sugar can contribute to people consuming too many calories, which can lead to weight gain. Sometimes people do not realise that the drink they bought is unhealthy. The Nutri-Grade label helps us differentiate between healthier drinks and unhealthy drinks.

Unlike many other substance-use disorders or behavioural compulsions, sugar addiction is often easy to spot. The clearest signs of sugar addiction involve consumption of large amounts of food or drinks laden with sugar. After learning about the harmful effect of excess sugar in food, I have decided to start replacing some of the sweet food I eat with a healthier choice to keep healthy and have a strong body to protect me against diseases.

Stressed? Tell someone!

From: Gerlyn Tan Si En, 6, Changkat Primary
With reference to the letter “Tips for managing stress” (May 2023), it can be stressful and scary to be a Primary 6 student. We have stress and anxiety about PSLE — it is our first time taking a national examination. Sometimes, it can affect our mental health badly and we will have mental health problems, such as breakdowns and worries. But, there is always a way to cope.

We do not have to be afraid to seek help from our teachers, parents, friends or even a counsellor. All these people are here to support us, to be by our side whenever we face difficulties in life or feel “stuck” in our life. Talk to them, have a chat with them about your stress, ask them how you can overcome it. They will definitely help you.

Don’t wait and keep the stress, sadness or anger hidden in you. It will just continuously build up if not spoken and shared with a trusted person.

The T-H-I-N-K method

From: Toh Rui Xuan,Veralyn, Pri 4, Methodist Girls’
Cyberbullying is a type of bullying that most frequently happens on social media, for example, on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and WhatsApp. Cyberbullying means inflicting harm on others online. Some examples of cyberbullying are leaving negative or hurtful comments on someone else’s post. Such comments can hurt someone emotionally, making the targeted person feel a sense of sadness or depression. Another very common way of cyberbullying is texting someone and saying mean things.

Many of us have experienced and will experience cyberbullying whether it is on Whatsapp, Facebook, Instagram or TikTok. However, we must learn how to face it bravely. We must have courage to tell a trusted adult and courage to carry on doing our normal everyday activities and not let cyberbullying affect us.

If we receive hurtful comments online, we should always block the person or block the comments section first. Secondly, we should tell a trusted adult. Lastly, we should stay calm and trust that the trusted adult whom you told will help you.

To prevent cyberbullying, we should always think before we send or post anything. I have a method to share with you! The T-H-I-N-K method! Before you post or send, think: is it Truthful? Is it Hurtful? Is it Important? Is it Nice? Is it Kind? This method, taught by my teachers, have helped me so much, to T-H-I-N-K before I post or send. I hope this will help all of us all to T-H-I-N-K before we post or send!

TIGERS ARE PRECIOUS

From: Isabelle Leow Tse Hsuan, Pri 5, Tao Nan School
I am writing with reference to “Saving the apex predator of the Malayan Forest” (March 2023). The Malayan forest has something that Singapore once had — tigers. As some of you know, tigers used to roam freely around in Singapore. Unfortunately, the last Malayan tiger in Singapore was killed in 1930. Luckily, in Malaysia, the Malayan tigers still have a chance of surviving.

You might be wondering why we should help tigers since they are predators. A tiger may be dangerous, but it is still a living thing. Tigers are at the brink of extinction. Do you think we are doing the right thing by killing them? Many tigers were wiped out during the last century. The act of hunting tigers should be made illegal everywhere in this world and humans who poach tigers should be punished and put in jail.

Tigers are just as precious as we are! The habitats of tigers are also being destroyed and that is another way to kill tigers other than poaching. Before all tigers are wiped out, we should provide a safe place for them to breed so that they are no longer endangered.

SAVE TREES, SAVE LIFE

From: Neo Kai Zhen, Pri 5, Maha Bodhi School
Trees and plants are very important for the survival of mankind. The importance of planting trees has been emphasised from time to time. Trees give numerous benefits to everyone. They make the world better to live in.

Trees are the lungs of the world. They exhale oxygen and inhale carbon dioxide, and they also absorb harmful gases and give us fresh air to breathe in. They provide us with shade and save us from erosion, floods, and droughts. Trees also protect us from harmful ultraviolet rays. In addition, they also serve as a habitat for thousands of species of animals.

By cutting down trees, human beings are disturbing the ecological balance. As a result, many species of plants and animals have become extinct. We should grow more trees and practise afforestation. It is the only way by which we can protect the earth. Save trees and save your life.

PROTECT THE AMAZON RAINFOREST

From: Emma Liew Zhiling, Pri 5, Tao Nan School
I read the article about the clearing of the Amazon Rainforest and how it may affect the earth (March 2023). Learning that one-fifth of the forest has already been cleared makes me feel disappointed that we, humans, are causing the problem of animals losing their homes.

The Amazon rainforest is home to many exotic species. Although the Amazon rainforest is very big in size, if we clear one-fifth or more of the forest every year, soon enough, there would be no forest anymore. Animals who thrive there may become endangered after losing their natural habitat. I hope that people would stop these activities that harm wildlife and put themselves in the animals’ shoes. Besides that, we can play our part in saving our earth by conserving water and recycling recyclable materials.

If we all do our part, thousands of animals could be saved, and the state of the Earth would not worsen.

USE KIND WORDS

From: Chervelle Lim Zhi Qi, Pri 6, Tao Nan School
Have you ever used vulgarities in your life? I am sure many of you cannot deny the fact that you have done so or heard someone doing so.

Many a times I have heard students swearing. And most seem think that it is a way to vent their emotions, or maybe they were trying to fit in with others or even think it as a rite of passage. Research has also shown that kids nowadays start using vulgarities at a younger age than before, even without knowing the meanings of the expletives.

I have seen many of children using vulgarities freely, and despite teachers scolding them, this behaviour is still repeated. The reason for using vulgarities could be because of peer influence, or maybe even the behaviour of family members at home.

I think that we should all try not to use offensive language and, instead, try to use alternative words that are more polite to express our thoughts and feelings. This way, we will all have a kinder world.

SMALL STEPS COUNT

From: Cheng Zai Zhi Elijah, Pri 5, Maha Bodhi School
Global warming is a phenomenon where Earth’s average temperature rises due to the increased amounts of greenhouse gases. This can lead to drastic consequences. For example, some animals — such as penguins, polar bears, and seals — are on the verge of becoming extinct. This is due to the melting of icebergs, which they depend on.

Imagining that I were one of those poor animals losing their habitat makes me realise how important it is to stop global warming.

Not only that, but because of the melting of the icebergs, the sea level is also rising. This may result in islands, such as the Maldives, being completely submerged by the year 2100.

Global warming has already caused more natural disasters and increased health risks. Moreover, with the world’s temperatures set to rise over the next few years, scientists agree that far worse effects are still to come. By 2050, Earth’s temperature is predicted to hit 52 degrees Celsius.

If we all take small steps to stop global warming, we will be able to prevent or delay its negative effects. We can take these small steps, like walking or cycling to our destination if it is not too far. Let’s all do our part to stop global warming.

MAKE SCHOOL A POSITVE EXPERIENCE

From: Andrade Sydney Marie Tenerife, Pri 6, East Spring Primary
School is a place where students go to learn, acquire knowledge, and develop various skills that will help them succeed in life. Despite its essential role, there are negative aspects to the traditional school system.

Thus, school is not always a positive experience for students. The workload can be overwhelming, causing stress and anxiety for students, and leaving them with little time for other activities they enjoy. Furthermore, the traditional school system can be very rigid and inflexible. The curriculum is often standardised, which means that all students are expected to learn the same things in the same way, regardless of their individual needs and interests. Many schools focus primarily on academic subjects, which do not necessarily prepare students for real-world situations.

Moreover, bullying is a common issue in schools. While schools have anti-bullying policies in place, they do not always effectively address the problem.

In addition, schools can be very competitive environments, where students are pitted against each other to achieve the best grades or win awards. This can lead to a toxic and stressful atmosphere, where students feel like they are constantly under pressure to perform.

Many students struggle with mental health issues such as anxiety and depression, which can significantly impact their academic performance and overall well-being. However, schools often do not have adequate resources to address these issues, or they may not be taken seriously by teachers or administrators.

It is essential for educators to recognise these issues and work to create a more positive and supportive learning environment for students.

Learning from Sarita

From: Vanessa Choo Kai Li, Pri 6, Opera Estate Primary
After reading “Sharing the gift of reading through audiobooks and braille” (January 2023), I realise there are many people out there who are less fortunate and struggle with everyday activities such as reading and writing. We have to appreciate even the little things around us. Throughout my life, I was fortunate enough to be guided by people such as my parents and teachers, who helped me grow in life. Just like Sarita, I have faced many challenges in my life but the guidance from my parents and teachers lifted me up to where I am today. Sarita’s story taught me that despite the hardships I have gone through, I can still push on and make the best out of my situations. Sarita is a strong and independent woman whom we can all learn from and look up to.

Save the environment

From: Brian James Hartono, Pri 4, St Stephen’s School
I feel we must save the environment. Many creatures in the sea and land are dying as we litter in them. We should pick up litter so that we can save the animals and do not let their species die. Let’s keep the world clean and healthy!

Cut down on sugar

From: Elisha Faye Dimla Salise, Pri 6, Changkat Primary
Too much sugar is bad for our health, and I am glad that some hospitals and schools are trying different ways to make people take less sugar. I think most people still do not know the dangers of taking too much sugar, which includes developing diabetes and kidney failure. I am glad that there are people out there educating about the dangers of too much sugar. We should also do our part to share the need to limit the intake of sugar with our friends or family. I hope that everyone would consume less sugar and become healthier.

Exercise is key to health

From: Lina Kang, Pri 6, Tanjong Katong Primary
Many of us do not exercise regularly as we are either busy studying or playing video games. This is bad for our bodies. Not only does exercise improve our physical health, but it also improves our mental health. Every day, I go out to the exercise corner and exercise by playing tag with my friends or doing sit ups and pull ups. I always look forward to this part of the day as doing exercise relieves my stress from school. You may not have time to exercise every day, but you should at least do it during the weekend. Trust me, it really helps relieve your stress!

Banning sugary drinks

From: Ong Suang Zhi, Pri 5, Maha Bodhi School
With reference to “Keeping sugar out of reach” (February 2023), I think sugary drinks should be banned as they are unhealthy and are often the cause of health-related problems such as diabetes and obesity, just to name a few.

Children who have the habit of buying sugary drinks from school will develop a habit of buying sugary drinks when they grow up and may develop many health problems in the future. Once addicted, it will be hard to cut the habit and the practice.

If adults have the habit of drinking sugary drinks, their children will also follow their bad habits since young and it will start to become a cycle and cause different illnesses that are caused by sugar. Sugar is needed for energy. However, too much of it is bad for health. Thus, for me and my family we follow this motto: “Everything in moderation.”

Our unsung pandemic heroes

From: Kesshna Nair, Pri 5, Woodgrove Primary
In 2019, COVID-19 caught us off guard. We attended many online conferences during Home-Based Learning. We saw only face masks on our friends and family’s faces. This soon became our new norm during the pandemic. Fortunately, our frontline heroes stepped in and helped to reduce the impact on the population. People in the healthcare industry worked around the clock to safeguard our health. Most of the time, when we speak about frontline heroes, we are usually referring to doctors, nurses, and paramedics. But, there are really more frontline heroes when you think about it. For example, we should not forget our cleaners, for helping us keep the places around us clean and sanitised. We should always remember “Our Unsung Heroes” in the pandemic.

Let’s appreciate our parents

From: Katelyn Tan, Pri 6, Methodist Girls’ School
Recently, I have noticed many students not treating their parents with enough respect. They act as though their parents have wronged them. Some even go as far as saying that they “hate their parents”. It pains me to see children pushing their parents away, when all their parents are doing is ensuring their safety or asking them to complete homework which is due. To me, that is completely unreasonable, as most parents only wish the best for their child. However, parents often have to bear with their children’s horrible attitude when they ask their children to do any homework that will only expand the children’s knowledge when be completed. Parents only mean the best. But, children often do not appreciate their parents’ efforts in trying to raise them up properly, on top of putting food on their plates. Parents have to put up with their children’s negative responses, and still love their children unconditionally. Appreciate your parents more! They only want to see you succeed.

Every deed counts

From: Harish Vikram, Pri 5, Changkat Primary
Climate change is a growing problem in our world today. Because of our actions, poorer nations are getting affected. In Somalia, millions of people are facing a terrible famine. Many had to leave their families to seek a better life.

We, as fellow humans, must also understand what other nations are going through and do our part. We can do simple deeds such as turning off the tap once we are done washing. All these small deeds can make our earth a better place for all!

Remember, “little drops of water make a mighty ocean”.

Make reading a habit

From: Jared Kong, Pri 6, Tao Nan School
Reading is good for you! Instead of gaming, or doing other things, why not consider reading instead? Research shows that people who read more tend to do better in their studies and have a better foundation in the language. Reading also helps us learn new things that we probably never knew about. Reading newspapers can help too! They let us know about what is happening around the world. I encourage everyone to make reading a habit.

Bullying hurts others

From: Yong Chia Shiuen, Pri 6, CHIJ Our Lady of Good Counsel
Bullying is damaging. It can hurt others in many different ways. An example is cyber bullying. It is where people name-call a person or say rude and hurtful things to that person online. The person might feel sad and broken and might do harmful things to themselves.

Another form of bullying is physical bullying. It involves beating up and hurting a victim. Often though, the bullies are insecure themselves and have to hurt people to feel confident of themselves.

Bullying is very wrong, and we should never bully anyone. If we see someone being bullied in school, we should report to a trusted adult. I hope that everyone will stand up against bullying.

Being grateful

From: Gan Ming Xian Kayla, Pri 5, Tao Nan School
Being grateful is an important value in life. Without gratefulness, we are less happy, grumpier, and everyone gets mad more easily. Focusing on the things we have is important so that we can be grateful, positive, happy, cheerful, and joyful. Being grateful also helps people feel more positive emotions and relish good experiences. It also improves our health and builds stronger relationships. It starts with simply saying thank you!

Spending wisely

From: Chan Ee Shin, Pri 5, Maha Bodhi School
We should be thankful for everything we have. Sometimes I buy too many toys and stationery. Then, after using them for a few days, I will leave them somewhere and forget all about them.

Nowadays, things are really expensive. We should not take the things we have for granted as our parents worked for them with their “sweat and tears”. Consider how many people in the world do not have as many things as we do.

Now, whenever I want to buy something, I will stop and think if it is really useful and needed. I hope we will all spend our money wisely.

Touched by Dr Li Wen Liang

From: Lim Wen Ler, Pri 6, Changkat Primary
After reading “Chinese people remember a COVID-19 hero” (January 2023), I felt touched by what this doctor, Li Wen Liang, did to save people from COVID-19. He risked his life trying to save patients from COVID-19 and shared about the new disease the officials were trying to hide.

He became infected with COVID-19 while treating patients in a hospital and sadly, passed away in February 2020. I feel very sad when I read this as I think that if the officials had not tried to silence him, many other patients that got COVID-19 would have been saved.

Also, if the officials listened to Li Wen Liang and told the people about the existence of COVID, I think that there would be less people getting infected with COVID-19, as they would know the need to take precautions. I think that COVID-19 would not be such a pandemic if the officials did not try to hide its existence.

Inspiring leaders who persevered

From: Jenson Wu, Pri 6, Tao Nan School
The article on Malaysia’s Prime Minister, Anwar Ibrahim (January 2023), reminds me of the importance of staying resilient and to persevere in difficult times. His courage and determination to improve the lives of the people in his country despite the obstacles he faced serve as a strong inspiration and motivation.

Meanwhile, it was recently reported that Singapore will be launching a Commemorative Coin to mark the 100^th anniversary of our former prime minister Mr Lee Kuan Yew’s birth. Exhibitions and other initiatives will also be launched for us to remember Mr Lee’s vision and ideas. His team and our Pioneer Generation had worked tirelessly to develop Singapore from a fishing village to metropolitan city state in a short span of time.

As we progress rapidly in a digitally charged world, we must, from time to time, take a step back to remember the sacrifices and contributions of our forefathers. Armed with these memories, we will be mindful not to be complacent with the comforts we now enjoy. We will continue to strive and fight for our future generations.

Mastering English

From: Reign Pang Zhi Feng, Pri 6, Maha Bodhi School
English is one of the most widely spoken languages in the world. I would like to share with you some tips to better master this language:

Read as much as possible: Reading is an excellent way to improve your vocabulary, grammar, and comprehension skills. We should make a note of any new words we come across and learn their meanings.
Listen to English podcasts or watch English videos. Listening to English speakers will help us to improve our listening and comprehension skills. We should try to find podcasts or videos that cover topics that interest us, so we’re more likely to stay engaged.
Write regularly. Writing is an excellent way to practice using correct grammar and sentence structure. We can start by keeping a daily journal in English, writing emails or texts to our friends, or even joining writing courses.

Improving our English language skills takes time and effort. However, with persistence, I believe we can master this language. We need to stay motivated, practise using English consistently, and not be afraid to make mistakes as they are an essential part of our path to mastering English!

How to beat boredom

From: Colette Tan, Pri 6, CHIJ Our Lady of Good Counsel
I often sit in my room, complaining about how bored I am. Of course, there are many ways to beat boredom. You can find them on the internet. But, here are some hacks to avoid boredom:
– Get absorbed in your favourite activity
– Try something new
– Do something you’ve been meaning to do
– Help around in the house (like doing household chores)
– Bond with your family
– Get to know others better (like friends and family)
– Do some art.

Tuition can be helpful

From Joshua Oh, Pri 6, Catholic High
After reading the article, “A year after China banned it, private tuition still goes on”(September 2022), I feel shocked that China banned tuition as there are many benefits from tuition. I personally have Chinese tuition and it helps me to better understand the concepts that I need to know for examinations. I hope the Chinese government changes the rule to help students who need help in their studies and tutors will not have to risk being punished just for teaching students.

Let’s watch what we say

From: Mason Mui Ting Hin, Pri 4, Tao Nan School
There has been a lot of verbal bullying in schools. We should always watch what we say as we may hurt our friend or classmate’s feelings. People may really think that what you say is true and might not be able to sleep the whole night. Some may even feel so bad about themselves that they might even commit suicide! Knowing that verbal bullying is so bad, we must watch what we say!

Sometimes, we cannot control ourselves from saying stuff that other people may take offence at. We can use this method: “stop, think, do” to control ourselves.

Kids are important

From: Aishwarya Shruthika, Pri 6, CHIJ Our Lady of Good Counsel
Many people in the world think that kids are not important. But, the fact is that kids, no matter how stupid or untalented they seem, are still very important and deserve more respect in this world.

Everybody deserves a good and happy childhood. It does not mean that kids should get spoiled, but they should also be well taken care of. In recent years, kid abduction, kidnapping, and abuse cases have increased around the world.

Kids are basically the future of the human race. They have a great impact on many people’s lives. They keep the people around them happy. Kids deserve more respect and education so that when they grow up, they can lead a happy life with their parents and cherish life to the full. By learning from their elders such as parents, older siblings, and grandparents, they can grow up to be independent and emotionally strong.

Let’s be resilient

From: Ashlynn Hannah Foo, Pri 6, Paya Lebar Methodist Girls School
What is resilience? Well, based on my personal understanding, it means persevering through tough times and challenges. Why do we have to be resilient? I think that resilience is an extremely valuable trait to possess. From a student’s perspective, it can be a challenge to cope with exams, strict teachers, the expectations that we carry on our shoulders, tuition classes, and homework. Often, we feel defeated, overwhelmed, and fatigued. We may not always have the choice of putting our foot down and stepping away from all our stressors. Then, what should we do? Well, we can be resilient, and come up with solutions to our problems. Perhaps we could make a timetable and plan our time well, make some sacrifices, tell our parents if we are too stressed, instead of simply throwing in the towel. By being resilient, our quality of life may improve. Let’s all be resilient!

An excellent idea

From: Arden Kew Jin Rui, Pri 6, Henry Park Primary
I remembered reading my social studies textbook about the water shortage incident that happened in Singapore a long time ago. Everyone had to queue up with their huge and heavy pails at a tap or a well to collect water to drink, bath, and cook food. Also, queuing up takes a long time. That is why, I agree recycling water is an excellent idea. I definitely find the Omiflo system in Kenya a brilliant way of recycling water using plants.

The Omiflo system recycles water by planting plants on the surface of the wastewater. By doing so, the plants will absorb oxygen from the air, then the plants will inject the oxygen into the wastewater through their roots, restoring health to bodies of water while creating beautiful natural spaces. Now because of this, the Omiflo system produces about 2,000 litres of treated water daily. For us, we can also reduce the use of water in our daily lives. For example, we can use rice water to water plants instead of pouring it away. We can also use a showering bucket to bathe.

Bullying has many impacts

From: Vivienne Crystalynne Elle Lie, Pri 6, CHIJ Our Lady of Good Counsel
Bullying is nasty, not only for the bullied but also for the bully, and even witnesses. It leads to many negative impacts, especially for children and adolescents. Bullying takes many forms, including physical and cyber bullying. Those who are bullied can face social and mental health issues. They could feel depressed, have increased feelings of anxiety and loneliness, face a change in their regular eating and sleeping patterns, and lose interest in things they used to enjoy. Because they are bullied, they might feel inferior and skip school often, causing a decrease in academic achievements.

The bullies also face negative impacts. They might engage in violent activity such as gang fights, and also take on dangerous behaviors as they enter adulthood. As a result, they have a higher chance of abusing alcohol and drugs, committing crimes, and becoming increasingly abusive to the people around them as they grow up.

Bystanders also meet with undesirable impacts. The uncertainty of whether or not to report the bully for the fear of getting bullied themselves might make them live with worry, fear, and the uncomforted of having to fight their conscience that constantly nags them to help the victim. This could lead to anxiety, which could cause them to skip school to avoid seeing the perpetrator or victim, as it reminds them about the incident they had witnessed.

In conclusion, bullying creates serious and lasting issues on children and youths, which could follow them even until adulthood. Bullying is always bad, and nobody should ever have to experience it.

Together, we can stop bullying

Be a responsible gamer

From: Harshita Mukesh Thadani, Sec 2, Raffles Girls’ Secondary
“Stop playing video games. Come to the table for dinner!” This command may sound very familiar to many of us. Playing video games has become very popular. There is a growing body of research on the effects of video games on children. Many video games can be educational. They teach kids how to work well as a team. Internet-enabled games that let kids play with their real-life friends often require collaboration and division of tasks.

One surprising benefit of gaming which I read about recently is that kids who play video games may get a small boost to their reading skills. However, this does not mean video games should replace books!

Let’s delve into some negative impacts. Young children and teenagers with their eyes glued to their screens are a common sight at bus stops, MRT stations, and in restaurants. Children can become overly involved and even obsessed with video games, leading to poor social skills and little family time. Besides impacting other hobbies and grades, it may also lead to the children reading less, exercising less, becoming overweight, and having aggressive thoughts and behaviours. There are many other negative impacts of gaming.

Playing video games is a privilege, not a right. Do you know that like movies, video games have age appropriateness ratings? Just as we should check the age appropriateness ratings of movies for their content suitability for our age, we should do likewise for video games. All in all, we need to be responsible and set limits for ourselves.

A shared Singaporean identity

From: Xiang Ziqi, Pri 4, Nanyang Primary
I participated in a local culture immersion programme organised by my school. On seeing a mural in the Heritage Centre depicting Eurasians, Indians, Malays, and Chinese ploughing a field together, I was amazed by how different cultures could put aside their differences and help shape Singapore’s present society. Singapore has been always embracing diversity and boasting multicultural values as it sits midway between the Eastern and Western worlds.

Singapore’s culture is neither a concoction nor a derivative of other civilisations. Cultures intermingled, evolved, and eventually took root in the local soil in this melting pot. Whatever race you are, we all share many things that originate from Singapore and are unique to Singapore. Most importantly, we have a shared identity — Singaporean.

Let’s save water

Naitik Oswal, Pri 5, Opera Estate Primary
To me, water wastage happens a lot in many countries, such as India, Malaysia, Taiwan, Indonesia, and even Singapore . Singaporeans are taking our ready supply of clean water for granted and do not blink an eye at the amount of water we waste.

With reference to “Girl with a mission in India” (August 2011), Garvita Gulhati set on a brave mission to save water in her home country by reaching out to many restaurants to serve only half a glass to customers. I think this is a smart thing to do as sometimes people do not finish their water. And a large amount of water is wasted like. Thank you, Garvita Gulhati, for inspiring us to save water.

Most people use about 141 liters of water a day. This is a lot of water, and we should reduce it to maximum of 120-130 liters of water. We should save every drop of water.

Ghosting is rude

From: Nur Alesha Zara, Pri 6, Changkat Primary
What is ghosting? Does it mean you’re dying and turning into a ghost? No!
Ghosting is a term that refers to the act of abruptly severing communication without explanation. A Filipino politician, Amolfo Teves Jr, is even trying to have “ghosting” declared as an emotional offence under Philippine law.

If you ask me, ghosting is rude. I have had many friends ghost me without explanation. However, they apologised for it after that. If they did not, I would probably have paid them a visit to ask them why they were not answering my texts or declining my calls. For most people, it hurts to be ghosted by others. We should not ghost people, no matter how busy or upset you are. Just ask yourself, how would you like it if others ghosted you?

Wonderful friends

This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is THUMBS-UP.jpg — **EDITORS’ PICK**

From: Dorothy Joy, Pri 6, Qihua Primary
Sometimes I look at my friends and I think to myself, “Gosh, how did I meet such amazing and unique people?”

Most of the friends that I have made are individuals whom I would never have talked to, if not for the circumstances that allowed me to get to know them. I would never have met my adorable and energetic juniors if not for my CCA. I would never have spoken to some of my schoolmates if not for an after-school programme. I would never have laughed as much as I do now if not for the people that sit around me in class.

In my opinion, it is not necessary to know every single detail about a person or to know a person for a really long time to be good friends. Instead, I believe a good friend is someone whom you can rely on and who would be there for you when you need them. If you are friends with someone like that, then you are one lucky person.

Looking back on my final year of primary school, I am grateful to have met such wonderful people. And, I look forward to meeting new people in secondary school.

Although it can be a little terrifying to think about having to start over to make new friends, try not to let that fear control you. Who knows what might happen if you make the first move to say hello to someone? You might be surprised to see what could happen next.

Teachers, our superheroes!

From: Cherisse Chan Xuan Hui, Pri 5, Henry Park Primary
I am sure everyone loves Teachers’ Day. This year, Teachers’ Day in my school was simply amazing. My classmates and I had a blast surprising our teachers in the classroom. After that, we went to our school hall for the official school celebration.

As we were patiently waiting for the celebration to start, the hall was in total darkness. Suddenly, the teachers and the principal started walking one by one into the hall, and guess what? The teachers and principal were all dressed up in superhero outfits! All the students in our school clapped and cheered as loudly as we could for them. Our schoolteachers and principals are indeed the superheroes in every student’s life.

I am really grateful for all my teachers from kindergarten to primary school — for imparting their knowledge, and always inspiring and encouraging me to never give up. Thank you to every teacher in Singapore for teaching and guiding all students. I would like to wish all teachers, principals, coaches, and retired teachers a blessed teachers’ day!

Spend money wisely

From: Muhammad Salman Azfar, Pri 5, Fern Green Primary
Now that the inflation rates are rising very steadily, let us do our part by helping our parents save money! Here are some tips on saving money every day.

Buy only what is necessary for yourself.
Our parents need to pay for our school fees, pocket money, and transportation. Some of us have tuition and that itself costs a lot. If we want everything we like at a mall, our parents will feel the pinch. Sometimes we will just have to compromise and buy only what is necessary, for the sake of our parent’s finances.
Budget well and spend moderately.
Our parents give us money to eat in school or to simply teach us the value of hard work. If we ask for a bigger amount of money, it might lead us to buying wasteful items. What we can do instead is to budget well and spend moderately. We should also cultivate the habit of saving.
Take public transport
As we all know, not only is the cost of food rising, the cost of petrol is also rising. Instead of depending on our parents to drive us to places, we should start using public transport to get to places. We could also use bicycles and scooters for shorter distances.

I hope we can learn to manage our finances to make it easy for our parents and everyone.

Learning and practicing the 3 R’s

From: Kaien Eng, Pri 3, Yu Neng Primary
When I started with my 3 R’s recycling project, I learned many new things. For example, I learnt a plastic toothbrush takes 500 years to decompose! And if we throw a plastic bag in the ocean, turtles might think it is a jellyfish and try to eat it! Now, every time when there is rubbish on the floor, I will pick it up and throw it away in the dustbin. You should do that too. Whenever I can, I practice the 3 R’s. For example, when I go to a shopping center, I use a reusable bag to carry the stuff that are bought. And I am starting to worry more about global warming.

Let’s fight dengue together

From: Peh Li Ting, Pri 5, Red Swastika School
Many people have contracted dengue. Some people are very fortunate as they recover from dengue. But, some are unfortunate, and they die from it. Let’s be considerate and cooperate in our fight against dengue by pouring water out of unused pails, containers, and pots. Let’s try our best to stop dengue!

Read and share the news!

From: Enzhi Tian, Pri 6, Elias Park Primary
Have you ever wondered just how much work goes into a copy of newspaper, just like the one you are reading right now — What’s Up? A large amount of work is needed to produce each issue of newspaper. Hence, do not just throw away your newspaper after you have merely scanned through it. Read the articles in the newspaper word by word and don’t forget to share those interesting articles that you have read with your family and friends!

Stop climate change

From: Kaelyn Peh Ying Hui, Pri 5, Maha Bodhi School
Thousands of marine animals are going from being endangered to critically endangered due to global warming and climate change. Some animals, such as the Malayan tigers, are so critically endangered that there are fewer than 200 wild Malayan tigers left in rainforests, making them nearly extinct. We humans are the ones who caused this disaster. Every year, marine creatures and seagulls eat the plastic we dispose of into the ocean, thinking that it is food.

To think that more than one million animals around the world die yearly due to climate change! We are underestimating this disastrous situation we have gotten ourselves into. The death of animals also causes an unbalanced ecosystem on earth, which affects us, humans, greatly.

Though this catastrophe may be bigger than it seems, I think that the solution to this problem is merely sitting right in front of us. If we all do our part in not throwing away and instead adopting good practices like reducing, reusing, recycling, and upcycling, we have a good chance to put a stop to this disaster.

Help children to grow up well

From: Tay Yu Le, Pri 6, Alexandra Primary
Children are the ones who will grow up to form the next generation of workers, political officeholders, business owners, and directors, etc. Even when they are young, children can take action in causes which affect them or will affect them in the future. Children are also affected by recent happenings, for example, the Russia-Ukraine war, COVID-19, etc. Due to the pandemic and the war, many children do not get to go to school, affecting their learning. The stress also negatively affects our mental wellbeing. I think governments should take action to help nurture students holistically to make sure that we are ready for the future and ensure no unnecessary stress is imposed on children.

I love to read

From: Sethurajan Pritika, Pri 6, Woodlands Ring Primary
Ever since I was little, my favourite thing to do was read. I used to love reading simple books. But now, reading more advanced books has become a norm for me. The reason for my radical change is my English teacher. She adores English immensely and always gives us death stares if she sees anyone reading books that are too simple for our level. Every day, I learn at least one new English word from her. I then realised how moving on from simple books to books with a wider range of vocabulary was beneficial for scoring high marks in English. Reading books are not the only reason for my scoring well in English. My English teacher makes lessons more interesting and fun by letting us do group work and discussions. Without her, I would be stuck at my low grade for English. Thank you, Mdm Choo!

Solve the climate crisis

From: Stasia Lew Rui Qi, Pri 5, Tao Nan School
You would have heard of the term “climate change” many times. So, what exactly is climate change? Climate change is the “long-term shift in temperatures and weather patterns”, according to the United Nations. In fact, that was one possible reason why the dinosaurs went extinct millions of years ago!

Since the 1800s, climate change has been mainly due to human activities. There are many horrible effects due to climate change — hotter temperatures, more severe storms, increased drought, rising of sea levels, loss of species, more health risks, and famine. These are some of the effects of climate change. Singapore is already starting to feel these effects. There are ways to overcome these problems, though.

To stop this climate crisis, we must save energy at home, and walk, cycle, or take public transport more often. The journey towards stopping climate change might take time. But together, we can stop climate change before it changes our lives. Together, we can preserve Earth and give future generations a chance to live in this planet we call home.

Curb fast fashion

From: Ang Yu Jing, Pri 6, Maha Bodhi School
Fast fashion has to stop. The world we are currently living in is experiencing severe climate change and global warming, and if we don’t take action sooner or later, there will be worse consequences. One of the factors that contribute to global warming is fast fashion. Fast fashion is the business model of companies producing piles and piles of clothes very quickly and very cheaply.

Most fast fashion companies even pay their workers low salaries, and that is how that brand new dress could cost just five dollars. When fashion companies produce fast fashion, we as buyers would want to buy more of these cheap products — because they are cheap. However, we are not only wasting our money, but we are also cycling through our clothes more quickly. This results in more clothes ending up in landfills, hence producing more waste.

However, there are alternatives to fast fashion. Some of us are born into less fortunate families. Thus, we could opt for other affordable options like thrift shopping or buying clothes at the flea market. These places sell secondhand clothing, and are as affordable, if not cheaper than fast fashion.

In addition, in this way, you are saving the environment, and not throwing your money to fast fashion companies. We could also wear the clothes of our older siblings, or even our parents.

We should all make an effort to stop global warming. And, we can start by not giving in to the temptation of buying these clothes that are cheap, but harmful to the environment.

Enjoy music but protect your ears

From: Sarah Yeo, Pri 6, Maha Bodhi School
I am sure that many of us use music apps like Spotify, Apple Music, and so on. I am often reminded not to use earphones to listen to music by my parents and grandparents. However, I brushed them off. After reading the article “Control the volume when listening to music” (June 2022), I finally realised that there is actual damage that can be caused by long periods of listening to loud music. This article instantly caught my eye when I realised that it was written by a person who loved listening to music.

I would never have thought about the damage to the ear from listening to loud music for long periods of time. Reading this article helped me reflect on how I listen to music. Music can help you relax and relieve stress. Or you can just simply enjoy the music.

If you are a person who enjoys listening to music every day, for a start, try to reduce your usage of earphones or headphones. When you use them, the music naturally is louder as they are closer to your ears. That will cause more damage to your ears. You can remove the earphones if you are at home and play your music at a volume that is not too loud, but loud enough for you to enjoy. The music would be further from your ears, which is considerably healthier!

It is perfectly fine to listen to music, but we should watch and control the volume of the music.

I would love a 2.5-day weekend!

From: Ariel Tan, Pri 5, Tao Nan School
Imagine a 2.5-day weekend in Singapore. How good that would be! We will no longer have to go to school and our parents will no longer need to work on Fridays. Our parents will be able to spend more time with us too. This all sounds too good to be true, right? You are right. Although you would be able to rest longer, you will have less time to spend with your friends in school. You may also lose some time learning new things, which may affect your studies, which may in turn affect your future. So, if you think about it, having a 2.5-day weekend is also bad. I think that a 2-day weekend is good enough to rest until the weekday comes. However, if the government decides to make the 2.5-day weekend come true, I will not be the one complaining about it!

Save our oceans

From: Jacob Chan Wei Leung, Pri 5, Tao Nan School
I believe that humans should stop actions that damage the environment and cause pollution that leads to climate change, especially the oceans, which cover around 71 per cent of the Earth. Marine life is gradually dying out due to plastic waste and chemicals. Icecaps are melting due to the rising temperatures of the ocean which threaten people living near the ocean. Humans should reduce plastic waste to the bare minimum. Carbon dioxide causes chemical reactions which make the water more acidic. Over-fishing also leads to the decline of some types of fishes. In fact, one-third of the world’s fish stocks are declining at alarming rates. If we fail to save our oceans, we will not be given a second chance. So let us seize this opportunity to save the oceans while we still can and make the Earth a clean and green planet.

Selfish actions destroy the environment

From: Cayden Chong, Pri 6, Maha Bodhi School
Generally, our actions are now causing problems for the environment, from the deep vast ocean to the forests on our planet. Some people may think that throwing rubbish into the ocean may not make a difference. They might think that the ocean is so vast and big. How could their actions make a difference? However, their actions have consequences. Just imagine if everyone in the world thinks that way and just throws rubbish into the ocean. The impact on the ocean would be devastating. Unfortunately, this is not the only problem we are facing. I think all our negative actions on the environment are very selfish. Humans are not the only living things on Earth. There is such a large biodiversity out there. There are even some species of animals and plants we have not discovered yet. However, we humans are ruining the world, not only for us but for the other animals. Fortunately, there are ways we can prevent this from happening, if we work together.

Sad about the war in Ukraine

From: Isha Chaudhury, Primary 6, Opera Estate Primary
Looking at the pictures of the Ukrainian children (May 2022), I feel sad and I am sure you feel sad too. Many of us do not even want to go to school. Some of us even call it a waste of time. Yet even with all their worries, the Ukrainian children choose to study in the metro station. Honestly, if I were in their situation, I would not even bother. Their situation might be too much for us to handle. It is a lesson for us. We should never take what we have for granted. Our lives can be turned upside down at any time.

Do our part to save the earth

From: Jane Ong, Pri 6, Maha Bodhi School
I am writing this letter in response to ”Amazon in danger” (May 2022). From the article, I learnt that when trees are cut down, not only does the level of carbon dioxide in the surroundings increase, many animals that live in the rainforest also lose their homes. Rising levels of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere is the cause of global warming. We need more trees to help absorb that carbon dioxide. I hope everyone can play their part to save the earth. Simple actions such as changing our eating habits, like eating less meat on a regular basis, or turning on the fan instead of the air conditioner when the weather is hot, can make a difference if everyone does their part.

A pet is for life

From: Anaiya Singhvi, Pri 6, Opera Estate Primary
As life is gradually returning to normal, people are returning to work and travelling. This has resulted in many poor animals ending up in shelters as their owners realise that they do not have time to care for them. It has been reported that more animals have been abandoned over the past six months due to the lifting of COVID-19 restrictions. Many pets were bought from pet shops when lockdowns were imposed during COVID. It is unfortunate that most people did not foresee themselves returning to normalcy and plan how they would then take care of their pets.

What have these innocent animals done to deserve such injustice? Doesn’t abandoning them feel like leaving a part of ourselves behind?

When pets first come to shelters, some do not even eat due to distress while some whine miserably for days. Others stare out of their crates yearning for their owners to come back for them. Whenever I see photos of miserable pets in shelters, my heart reaches out to them, and I wish I could adopt them all! In such times, shelters have their hands full and are still doing the best they can.

We can help. There are many ways to do so. This includes thinking about the commitments needed before buying or adopting a pet, keeping our pets once we decide to get them, donating money to shelters, and volunteering at shelters. We should choose to adopt over buying pets.

Let’s remember that the abandoned pets deserve loving families, after all the misery they have been through. They may not have the ideal looks that we wish for, but they will love us with all their heart. Isn’t that all that matters? We cannot change a pet’s past, but we can re-write its future!

Endurance and teamwork

From: Ren En, Pri 4, Catholic High

After reading “Lost ship discovered in icy Antarctic waters” (April 2022), I felt a range of emotions — sadness, worry, and elation. I was sad that Ernest Shackleton and his team did not reach Antarctica and had to abandon their ship, the Endurance. I was worried about the fate of the men as they spent months out on the ice floes and on Elephant Island. I was beyond happy to learn that every man on the Endurance survived the ordeal. It is an extraordinary story.

The story reminded me of the importance of teamwork. Everyone stayed alive because they worked as a team and looked after one another, including the sled dogs. I also learnt that we can use limited resources to solve problems creatively. Finally, I learnt to never give up when conditions get tough. I am glad that a team of scientists and engineers located the Endurance. It is a good reminder of the enduring strength of the human spirit.

Friends of different races

From Parth, Pri 5, Changkat Primary

I think that making friends of different races is very important. Why? Well, you can learn new things about different races, and it is fun. Singapore cares about people of all races. All are given equal respect in Singapore. Thus, all the races are friendly with each other. We should also care about different races. Let us continue caring and learning about different cultures!

Thank you!

From: Olivia, Pri 5, Red Swastika School

Despite all the terrible things that had happened in the world the past two years, I am still grateful for many things and would like to especially express my appreciation to the following people:

(1) My parents and sister: thank you for nourishing my soul with your encouraging words, never giving up on me, for being my rock, for your humour and for teaching me what being a good person truly means and for changing my negative soul to a positive and optimistic one.

(2) My teachers: thank you for your support, comfort, advice, help, and guidance. We are like little seeds, and you are like gardeners, watering us with guidance, care, comfort, and warmth.

(3) The government: Thank you for your leadership and for making Singapore so safe and sound.

(4) The What’s Up team: Thank you for the articles that not only widened my knowledge, but also informed me about the happenings outside of Singapore. During the circuit breaker period, it was a joy to read and expand my general knowledge.

All I want to say is “thank you so much”.

Start recycling

From: Wendy, Pri 6, Maha Bodhi School

I think that everyone should do her part in recycling as the Semakau Landfill would be filled up in 2035. At that point of time, the waste that we produced would not have a place to go. We can do our part by recycling so that we can produce less waste. When there is less waste, the landfill might take a longer time to be filled up. We should reuse things that can be used again. We should also reduce the use of plastic bags. When we buy groceries or other things, we can bring our own reusable bag to put the items in. These bags can be used repeatedly. In addition, we can reduce food waste — buy only what we need, not what we want.

Keep trash out of oceans!

From: Soon-Ya, Pri 6, Maha Bodhi School

Have you ever thought about what happens when you throw your trash into the oceans? Firstly, if garbage is dumped into the ocean, the oxygen in the water could be depleted. This results in poor health for the marine life due to the lack of oxygen. Animals such as seals, dolphins, penguins, sharks, whales, and herring could all die. Secondly, bottles and other plastics can suffocate or choke sea creatures. Thinking the items are food, they may eat them. Plastic items are one of the major causes of death among turtles. Mistaking plastic bags for jelly fish, turtles try to eat them and end up choking or suffocating on it. Thirdly, sea animals become tainted by the trash. The toxins from the plastics enter the food chain and threaten our health. Fourthly, marine debris interfere with navigation safety and damage fishing gear, affecting the work of local fishermen. In a nutshell, throwing trash into our oceans is harmful to all living things on planet Earth. Thus, please help protect the animals and other humans by disposing your trash at appropriate places. I strongly believe that if everyone plays their part, we can do this together and ultimately save more lives.

Our trash impacts the environment

From: Natalie, Pri 5, Methodist Girls’

After reading the article “Let’s keep plastic trash out of our oceans’ (May 2022), it made me realise that waste pollution is not something we can just brush off. While we humans see the environment as a waste bin, other animals may see it as their home. For example, when we do not find any recycling bin nearby, we tend to just throw it away on the ground. For animals, they see it as food and once they eat the waste on the ground, the poor animals could choke and die. Another example is when people throw their rubbish into the ocean, causing the sea animals to get trapped inside the rubbish and drown, leading to death. As the years pass, animals could go extinct. In order to solve these problems, we can help by not taking plastic bags from the supermarket and instead bring your own! I hope that we will be able to encourage more people to care for the environment and the animals.

The long road trip

From: Kaeden, Pri 6, Maha Bodhi School

After reading the article “A family road trip that lasted 22 years” (May 2022), I felt inspired by the Zapps who put in so much effort driving to so many countries in an old rickety car. I was surprised that they had also raised four kids during the trip. And each of the kids were born in a different country. Moreover, the couple also adopted two pets, a dog named Timon and a cat named Hakuna. I could not imagine how six persons and two pets could fit inside a car. It must be really cramped and uncomfortable!

Despite the uncertainty of living life on the road, it did not stop the Zapps from giving up. With the help of other people who were total strangers to the family, they were able to strive on with their long road trip. Even some not very well-to-do strangers gave food to the Zapps and gave them a place to sleep. I often hear about the bad things going on in the world. After reading the article, I was elated to learn that there are actually a lot of people who are doing good deeds to help those in need around the world.

The Zapps were also affected by the virus, COVID-19. They were stuck in Brazil in 2020 due to COVID-19 restrictions. Like them and many others, I was also affected by the deadly virus. During the June 2020 holidays, I was not able to have much fun as I was stuck at home. I missed all my relatives during the circuit breaker as I was not able to visit them. It was really tough attending online lessons and completing online assignments. Did you experience such challenges too? We could all learn from the Zapps, who never gave up despite the many challenges they faced.

Spend time with your siblings

From: Palak, Pri 6, Changkat Primary

The relationship that I have with my brother is very strong. Even though we fight or argue a lot, we still love each other. I do not see my brother all the time except in the night because he is either in school or studying in his locked room. Sometimes I wonder, why doesn’t he spend time with me? Now I realise that he does not have time for me like he did when we were younger. I just want to tell everyone to spend time with their siblings before they have no time for you!

Happy memories of virtual get-togethers

From: Yujing, Pri 6, Maha Bodhi School

Although Chinese New Year (CNY) ended some time ago, it still feels like it ended just yesterday. Every year, CNY leaves me with many happy memories, like memories of spending time with family, eating CNY snacks, and many more!

However, CNY this year and last year was especially memorable as it was very different from how I celebrated it in the past years. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, we were unfortunately not able to gather with all our family and friends for CNY since 2021. As a result of not seeing our relatives face-to-face, we also could not receive physical hong bao, which is a CNY tradition.

Luckily, we Singaporeans found other ways to enjoy CNY with family and friends without meeting each other in real life. For example, some of us decided to celebrate together through Zoom virtually. We chit chatted with each other, ate snacks together, and even separately tossed “yu sheng” together, all without potentially spreading the virus!

We also could also send our greetings through Zoom, and our relatives could also give us e-hong bao. Things may still not be exactly the same as before and we could not our see our family and friends physically. However, we still spent time together and the CNY spirit was still there — and that is all that matters.

Pros and cons of a 2.5-day weekend

From: Sean, Pri 5, Tao Nan School

I am writing in response to the article “The first country to have a 2.5-day weekend” (March 2022). The United Arab Emirates (UAE) starts its weekend on Friday because this makes it easier for Muslims to attend congregational prayers on Friday afternoons. This allows them to attend religious activities without having to take time off from their work.

In Singapore, our weekend is on Saturday and Sunday. I wish that the Singapore government will implement a 2.5-day weekend in our city as well so that schools and offices will finish at 12:00 pm on Fridays. This will promote work-life balance in our busy society where many employees are working longer hours and taking night calls. They have shorter time to rest, and less time to bond with their families.

However, if we start our weekends on Friday afternoons, students will have less time in school for education, and teachers will have to rush through the syllabus. Students may end up suffering as they do not understand the topics fully. In the corporate world, many other countries are still working on Friday afternoons. It is difficult to arrange meetings if the working hours are different. This is disruptive to business operations and causes inefficiency.

Learning about something makes it interesting

From: Yu Xin, Pri 6, Maha Bodhi School

Boring things can become interesting when we know more about them. You cannot say that something is boring if you have not tried it or did it just once or twice without putting much effort into it. If we were to find out more about something we find boring, we would eventually get more interested in it and start doing or watching it more often.

The Formula 1 is an example. For many years, it had a reputation for being boring. Most of the time the driver who started at the front of the track would win the race. Overtaking is a rare moment during the F1. After a few races, everyone would know who was going to win the championship.

Sports can be really fun because we do not know what happens next, but the F1 is the complete opposite. As such, people started losing interest in it. The organisers realised that they needed younger fans from more places around the world. They allowed Netflix to film a documentary about the sport, following the drivers’ personal life and have them talk about how they feel before each race. People who watched this began to understand why even though some drivers did not do well in the race, it mattered so much to them. Soon, more people became interested in the F1 and the sport became a little less boring.

Thus, even if something seems boring at first, we should at least try and find out more about it. The things that we find interesting these days probably started off as things people found boring. If we decide to find out more about things around us, nothing will be boring.

Manage your screen time

From: Dhevakar, Pri 5, St Stephen’s School

Ever heard of this sentence before? “Having too much screen time is good for you.” If you have, just know that it is a total myth. Nowadays, most of the kids spend more of their spare time on screens and less time on going out to play with their friends. Limiting screen time can help you in the future. I limit my screen time to just twenty minutes per day. I am not saying you should limit it to the same time but limit it to a time which is approximately one hour.

Screen time has advantages. This includes learning educational values, school-related homework, and research. In addition, playing (non-violent) video games can improve motor skills and coordination. Internet tools, texting, and shared video games are easy and fun ways to socialise and communicate. However, having too much screen time has its disadvantages. Physical strain to your eyes and body, sleep deprivation, impaired socialising skills and delayed learning.

Now, what can you do to stop these from happening and stop your addiction to screen? It doesn’t matter whether it’s taking a bike ride, a run, skateboarding, doing your favourite hobbies, spending more time playing with your siblings or a photo scavenger hunt. The act of simply getting some fresh air and burning off some excess energy is what’s important. Let’s stop limitless screen addiction together!

We can strive for a better future

From: Nathan, Pri 6, Tao Nan School

I would like to respond to the article “Singapore is working towards net-zero emissions” (March 2022). The Earth’s climate is already changing rapidly as we speak. Some of us are already experiencing the effects of climate change. Floods, droughts, natural disasters, the list goes on. Mankind exists only because we live in a currently hospitable environment. However, if the situation deteriorates further, the consequences would be disastrous. Thankfully, many countries have taken the initiative to lessen the adverse impact on our climate. That said, it is still not enough. In order to save Mother Nature, we will have to play our part to create a sustainable future by achieving net-zero emissions.

One step we can take to reach our goals would be to use solar panels. Solar panels trap light from the Sun and convert it to electricity, reducing our reliance on electricity from various service providers. Moreover, this is a renewable energy source (along with wind turbines and dams) which does not produce any harmful greenhouse gases. Though it can be costly, huge sums of money can be saved in the long run, making it one of the most energy-efficient methods.

With the advancements of technology, many people across the globe use automobiles to move from place to place. While this makes commuting more convenient, it is also a significant contributor to the carbon we release into the air. A solution to this ever-growing problem would be to drive electric or hydrogen-fueled vehicles. Then again, these vehicles are relatively costly, so let us move on to the next solution — taking public transport. As many people can board public transport at the same time, it prevents traffic congestion and reduces carbon emissions. Furthermore, public transportation fares are affordably priced. Better still, we can just use our two legs. (e.g.: walking, cycling, etc.)

One of the simplest ways to achieve “net-zero” is to plant trees. Trees absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen, serving as a “carbon sink”. Another way would be to do our part in conserving energy, food, and water. For instance, we could switch to using energy-efficient light bulbs, wash on a full load, or request for a smaller serving of food if we have a small appetite.

Last, but not least, we can change our dietary intake. By cutting down on our meat consumption, we can help to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. This is because farm animals release methane, a greenhouse gas which traps heat from the sun, ultimately contributing to climate change. We should look for alternatives, such as insects (rich in protein) or plant-based foods.

Time is running out. We must act now. And fast. Each one of us should do our bit in achieving net-zero emissions and eradicating climate change off the face of Mother Earth. Let us strive to create a better future for ourselves, and for those to come.

Don’t waste food

From: Vivien, Pri 5, Elias Park Primary

People like to throw away the vegetables and fruits from our school’s healthy meals. Whenever I see someone dumping food into the bin, I would always remind them to finish their food. Nine million people die from hunger each year. I think we need to stop wasting precious food and think about these unfortunate people. Every single grain of rice counts. Food wastage also causes pollution. When food waste gets burned, polluted air would also be created, and pollution would occur. I wish that we would all do our part and finish our lunch each day. Here are some tips:

Order only the amount you can eat
Try to finish the vegetables
Think of starving people
Donate food through donation drives.

It’s better to start school later

From: Oliveia, Pri 5, Methodist Girls School

Waking up at 5.30 am for school can be super difficult and tiring, especially when you do not want to be late for school because you will get a demerit point. I think schools should let students start school at 8 am, and end school at 2.30 pm. This way, students can be more alert in class and will not be sleepyheads at school. The students should also be allowed a break at 1pm so that we can eat lunch if we end school at 2.30 pm.

Yes, we could always sleep early, but there are many reasons why we cannot sleep early enough. For example, some children’s parents come home at 8 pm, so by the time the children catch up with their parents, it will be 11pm. And since a child needs to have at least 8 hours of sleep, they should wake up at about 7 am to have sufficient sleep and feel refreshed. Hence, I think that schools should start later.

Together, we can slow down climate change

From: Yuet Hoe, Pri 6, Maha Bodhi School

I think that the disappearing water in Mali is a huge concern for all of us. It is the result of climate change, which is caused by humans. The greenhouse effect occurs because too much carbon dioxide is released into the air, warming the earth. In the Maldives however, there is another problem of rising water. Climate change melts the polar ice caps, making the sea level rise and small countries or islands “drown”. I think it is important to cut down our use of electricity and other activities that harm the environment. Together, I believe that we can have a greener and much better Earth.

Stop child trafficking

From: Shervelle, Pri 6, Maha Bodhi School

After reading “Stolen boy, found by birth parents, wants to return to foster parents” (February 2022), I realise how huge the child trafficking problem was. If I were Sun Zhuo’s parents, I would have been heart-broken. Imagine having your child abducted. I feel sad for Sun Zhuo as it would be terrible knowing that your parents are not your biological parents and they had bought you. I feel that his adoptive parents could have gone to an adoption centre and adopted a boy instead of buying an abducted child. Even if they did not know that he was abducted, they should have suspected something and find out if he was abducted or not. I hope that all child trafficking will be stopped so that no child or parents have to go through what Sun Zhuo and his biological parents went through.

Follow Rohingya refugees steps in re-greening the world

Dian Heng, Pri 5, Changkat Primary

I enjoyed reading the What’s Up February issue, especially the article “Refugees help restore a forest”. The Rohingya refugees have done a great job in the re-greening project. I felt hopeful after reading the article because the refugees, although struck by poverty and facing hardships, wanted to take action to help the world by continually nurturing large numbers of trees every year. I hope the world would also follow in the refugees’ footsteps by making the world a better, greener place.

Doing the right thing

From: Anna, Pri 5, Tao Nan School

After reading the article “Novak threatens his legacy” (February 2022), I feel that the Australian government has set a great example for other countries to follow. Novak was not vaccinated against COVID, yet he still travelled to their country, putting others at risk. Other than that, he did not even quarantine himself when he had contracted the virus in December last year. The Australian government was trying to protect the people from the virus.

All of us have been living with this virus for the past two to three years. I am sure that we all wish to live our lives like before, without the pandemic. Hence, shouldn’t we try our best to stop this pandemic as soon as possible? If I were a citizen of Australia, I would definitely support the government.

Though Novak’s participation in the Australian Open would have been inspiring, the Australia government still made sure that he left the country so as not to influence others to not take the vaccine. In conclusion, I feel that the Australian government is very responsible for its country. I would like to applaud them for their bold and firm stand.

Whacky news made my day

From: Samuel, Pri 6, Tanjong Katong Primary

I found the article “Thief steals bridge” (January 2022) extremely interesting! This amusing, almost comical theft made my day last week. I really wonder why the thief thought it was worth the effort to remove the floorboards of the bridge by hand and then even hired an industrial moving company to lift it back to his backyard. When I first read this article, I was on the floor with laughter and could not get up for the next one minute. My English teacher also found it very funny. I never expected to see such a “whacky” and hilarious article in What’s Up. I will never forget this article and I hope that the editorial team will keep publishing such good articles!

Focus on team’s strengths

From: Anagha, Pri 5, Edgefield Primary

Sometimes we do not get to choose our teams. We are put in teams where the people are new to us or we do not like them. But, we should focus on what is important. We should focus on our strengths. It is better to focus on little positive things so that we can reach greater heights. Instead of thinking that your teammates are weak, think about what they can do to help you and vice versa.

If you fail, try again!

From: Jemima, Pri 6, CHIJ Our Lady of Good Counsel

Failure is never final in any way. If you fail, get back up. If you don’t succeed, try again! All humans fail, nobody succeeds at the first try of something new. Don’t be too upset if you fail or don’t succeed. Just remember, you can try again and again.

Proud of Singapore airport

From: Wendy, Pri 6, Maha Bodhi School

The Singapore airport has always made Singaporeans proud as it is one of the best airports in the world. When I was much younger, I thought that all airports are as clean and looked as “high class” as the Singapore airport. When I saw the airports of other countries, I realised that not all airports are that clean. I remember when I traveled overseas, the thing I was most excited about was not that I could travel to another country but going to the Singapore airport. When I was at the airport, I got so excited and liked to run around the airport seeing the different interesting things. Usually, my parents would not bring me to the airport unless we were going overseas. Hence, I seldom go to the airport. Whenever I think about the Singapore airport, it always makes me feel so proud to be a Singaporean, living in such a great country.

Saying “thank you” from the heart

From: Naifa, Pri 5, Changkat Primary

Now, I know some people just say thank you just for the sake of saying it. For instance, in school we have to greet the teacher and say “thank you”. And it is a normal thing to say thank you after receiving a gift, right? Yes, but unfortunately some people do not really understand the meaning of it. The true meaning of saying thank you is to show people how much you appreciate them or how much you are grateful for what they have done for you. I hope we would all say “thank you” from our hearts and not just with our mouths.

Phone addiction causes problems

From: Olivia, Pri 5, Red Swastika School

Phone addiction has caused many problems. As a result of having too much screen time, many people are less sociable in-person and more sociable online. Another huge problem is that kids are spending too much screen time on their devices but too little time on their homework or revision. Nowadays, mobile phones come with various functions. The “smart” devices can also be linked to social media platforms and mobile games. Thus, kids are becoming more and more addicted to their screens. They find the devices more interactive and entertaining than going out to the park to play games with friends and family.

Though there are many useful apps, it is important to know when, where, and how we use them. Many youngsters love to play mobile games. Instead of wasting our time playing until the wee hours of the night, we can always read a book and play productive games. In my opinion, it is always important to rest our brains, and look after our mental health and physical health.

Taking care of our world

From: Shruthika, Pri 5, CHIJ Our Lady of Good Counsel

Can you imagine a world without any litter — at our hawker centres, shopping malls, parks, and everywhere? If we take care of our world, it will be litter free. Even though there are some people contributing to the well-being of the earth, there are many who are not contributing at all. They leave lights and fans on when no one is in the room, littering on our precious land and water, and wasting water and food.

If we want to save the earth and ourselves, we should practise the 3 Rs — reduce, reuse, and recycle. We can reduce the waste of electricity, food, and water by turning off the lights and fans before leaving the room, not over-ordering food, and turning off running taps after use. We can reuse things by not using disposable items and donating books to charity. We can recycle things by recreating a used thing into something else that is useful. For example, we can use used paper for art while painting, we can turn jars into a simple and cute pencil case or even a piggy bank. And, if you want to make your plants grow better, you can recycle waste food like peels of fruits and vegetables as compost. Together, if we all do our part, our world will become a better place.

Stop animal cruelty

From: Celeste, Pri 6, West Grove Primary
I have always been a huge fan of animals. They are adorable creatures. I am horrified and disgusted at animal cruelty. Animal cruelty can be intentional, such as kicking or beating the animal. It also includes neglect, such as depriving an animal of water, shelter, food, and necessary medical treatment. Animals are living things. If you ever witness animal cruelty, put yourself in the animal’s shoes. Would you want to be mistreated in such a cruel manner? If not, help stop animal cruelty today!

Firstly, do not ever harm any animals yourself. It is callous and heartless. Secondly, you can help by stopping anyone you catch red-handed mistreating an animal. For example, if your friends are throwing rocks at innocent, helpless little birds, stop them immediately! Animal abuse is now a chargeable offence whereby the offender can be sent to jail or fined. It is also my wish that everyone will play their part by avoiding places that promote animal abuse, such as certain zoos, pet parks or carnivals. I feel that animals truly deserve their own freedom.

Olympics is a time for harmony

From: Joshua, Pri 5, Tao Nan School

After reading “Winter Olympics mood spoiled by quarrelling between governments” (January 2022), I felt disappointed that the American government is unable to get along with China, even over the matter of the Olympics. Both are very powerful countries. If both were able to get along as allies, the world would be better place. The US leaders need not have expressed their disapproval at China for the alleged mistreatment of its citizens in the Xinjiang province by refusing to attend the games. They could have settled matters in calm, cordial, manner and not resort to such means.

However, it is fortunate that the US is still sending in competitors even amid all the tensions between China and the West. In conclusion, the Olympics is a time for harmony, not tension. The US and China should do their best to maintain good ties during this time, especially with the COVID-19 Omicron wave on the roll worldwide now.

I want to be a chef

From: Drishya, Pri 3, Greendale Primary

I have always desired to be a chef one day. I know this might be hard as it is usually men who work in this field. I have heard many rumours that only men are capable of cooking in restaurants, while women can only cook at home. I feel so determined to prove these people wrong. I believe that anyone of any gender has the same capability of the other. Whenever I hear this rumour, I feel annoyed. I think people should not make such comments or spread rumours like this as it may discourage some of us. I hope people understand that those whom they have discouraged might be really disappointed.

I want to be a writer

From: Adam, Pri 6, Opera Estate Primary

Becoming a writer is one of my dreams. I especially like writing fun fictional stories. I also really adore action and adventure stories. It is the time I can let a lot of my imagination run wild. And, I know most of the kids in the world are very imaginative. You can actually sometimes imagine the scene of a particular part of the book. It may be a sad scene, an exciting scene or a scary scene. Whatever it is, I like it.

Spreading cheer and knowledge

From: Raania, Pri 4, St. Anthony’s Canossian Primary

I am very privileged to live in Singapore as I can spend hours in the library from morning to night. I certainly enjoy reading in the library as it gives me access to the best children’s books I can possibly have.

I am very glad to read about the founding of “The Reading Elephant Laos” and how it is bringing cheer to the children in Laos. I like how the volunteers do not just hand out books and leave, but actually make an effort to make the children happy by putting on puppet shows, setting up games, and even organising reading sessions for all the kids in Laos to enjoy.

My fervent wish is that the Reading Elephant Laos continues to grow stronger with each passing year and continues to spread knowledge and wisdom through their noble deed.

An acrostic poem

From: Hai Anh, Pri 6, CHIJ Our Lady of Good Counsel

Here is my acrostic poem on What’s Up:
W here we learn and discover new knowledge, stories, and facts
H elps to raise awareness about certain topics
A nd keeps children informed about what’s happening around the world
T aps into interesting news
S tories that inspire
U nderstands what’s going on in the world a.k.a. What’s Up readers
P icks stories that are engaging
Thanks, What’s Up!

Practice makes perfect!

From: Joash, Pri 5, Tao Nan School

“If opportunity doesn’t knock, build a door.” I feel that when my classmates or I do not do well in our exams, we should persevere and keep practising even if it takes some time to master a subject.

I would also like to quote the saying “Practice makes perfect” by John Adams, because I’ve seen many examples of this in my life. For example, during music lessons last year, I failed the recorder test. But, I persevered and practised very hard at home. After a week of practice, I passed the test with flying colours. My teacher was impressed with the huge improvement I had made and praised me in front of the whole class.

Stop stereotyping girls

From: Farra, Pri 6, Changkat Primary

I just want to say that we shouldn’t stereotype anyone. But, I am going to discuss stereotyping girls, in particular. We all have heard and known that many people stereotype girls as having to have long hair, be feminine, help with chores, and the list goes on. To me, these stereotypes are just rubbish.

First of all, girls do not have to have long hair. They can have any length of hair they want. If a girl has short hair, do not say to her that she looks like a boy, etc. Secondly, girls do not have to always do the chores. They can work in any job they want and do not necessarily all have to be housewives. Thirdly, girls do not have to fit into the feminine, “lady-like” and sweet mould. They can be strong, both physically and mentally. They need not be “soft” or “sweet” at all. They can have a sarcastic and rough personality like me. Fourthly, everyone can be emotional, not just girls. Everyone has cried no matter what their gender. Lastly, girls do not have to wear dresses or skirts or like the colour pink at all. They can wear jeans and a T-shirt, and they can like any colour.

In conclusion, girls can be anything they want to be and should not be judged by anyone. This applies to boys, too.

Sports teaches teamwork

From: Alexa, Pri 5, CHIJ Our Lady of Good Counsel

Participating in sports teaches us teamwork. Some people are innately active while others are not. Teamwork is a vital component in life. Working as a team allows its members to achieve a common goal. When work is divided up among team members, the work gets done quicker. Good teamwork means that you work together to complete a task in an efficient and effective way. To demonstrate teamwork while completing a task, you ask for help when you need and at the same time, you help others.

Everyone has different strengths and weaknesses. One of the characteristics of effective teamwork is communicating well with your teammates. When you communicate well with your teammates, you can understand one another’s problems and work together to solve them. The other characteristic of effective teamwork is supporting one another. When you support one another, everyone gets more encouraged and has more interest to persevere and carry on.

I have been part of a netball team for the past three years. There are seven different positions in a netball match. Each position has a different role. The first position that I learnt is the center. The center helps to bring the ball down the court to the goal. She starts with the ball and passes it to either the goal attack or the wing attack. The ball will then get closer and closer to the goal. But, no! It is not that easy. The player from the other team, which is the goal defence and the wing defence, will defend and try to intercept the ball while their opponent is passing the ball down the court. A crucial rule is that you can only hold on to the ball for three seconds. That gets the team to work together to get away from the defender.

Playing netball has really taught me a lot about teamwork and strengthened my belief that everyone achieves more with teamwork! I would like to end with a quote about teamwork “Teamwork divides the task and multiplies the success.”

Be considerate

From: Aurelia-Ann, Pri 5, CHIJ Our Lady of Good Counsel

I went to the playground last weekend. The playground was quite large. The most interesting feature was the slide. The slide was like a tube which curled around the pretend castle that the playground also had. My brother and I love this slide and we slid down it many times.

Later, as my brother was preparing to slide down again, a boy suddenly appeared from the mouth of the slide! A few moments later, two more boys had also appeared — one of them climbed from the top of the slide.

“How inconsiderate!” I thought to myself, as my father called for my brother and me. I am quite sure that most of us are no strangers to this kind of behaviour. We should all learn how to be considerate and not behave in a way that could hurt or injure ourselves or others.

Restrict gaming time

From: Kui Jun, Pri 6, Maha Bodhi School

These days, young people are playing too much computer games. Most young users lack the self-discipline to stop playing, especially when there is no adult to intervene. If they have complete freedom to use computer gadgets, most of them would spend the entire day playing games excessively. This gives rise to increasing issues such as myopia, game addiction, and mental health issues. Research has also shown that youngsters addicted to online games are usually more impulsive and short-tempered. Personally, I feel that some form of adult or government intervention is necessary to prevent more of such problems from surfacing.

China’s new set of strict rules limit the usage of computer games for its teenagers and minors. Gaming companies will be punished if they do not obey the new set of rules. The new rules will help to prevent excessive online addiction by China’s youths. However, I feel that the rules are too strict. While having a time limit is good, the youths should have their right to play whenever they want as they might not have time to play from 8pm-9pm. I feel that the gaming companies should not be punished as they have tried their best to prevent the teens and minors from excessively playing games. Instead, the children should be punished for outsmarting and avoiding the limitations that they should obey.

This strict limitation will surely help to reduce the minor’s playing of games. Even though the Chinese gaming companies will be affected, it will not make a large difference. The gaming company, Tencent, stated that they only get 5 percent of their revenue from young users.

I feel that the Singapore Government can set up some rules to prevent excessive online addiction by youngsters as well. Such rules should not be overly strict like in China. Instead, the rules should be more reasonable and serve more as a form of guidance. For example, they can set up limited time usage for the youngsters, with any extra usage time to be granted by parents. The time should not be restricted to only specific time slots since everyone has different schedules of when they are able to use the computer or play.

Equal right to schooling

From: Khloe, Pri 6, Tao Nan School

I feel that it is illogical that girls should have to drop out of school just to help out at home. Girls are humans too. They should have the right to study in school, and not be helping out at home if they do not want to. That would be unfair. Even though girls in many countries suffer gender inequality, I am glad that there are some kind people who are working to change that. We are fortunate that we have the privilege to go to school in Singapore. We should never take this for granted.

Avoid places that abuse animals

From: Colwyn, Pri 4, Catholic High

After reading the article “Nice picture but is it really worth it? (June 2021), I was bewildered that there are people in the world who do such cruel and callous things to animals. People who abuse animals must be charged for animal abuse. I could not believe that people will drug and beat animals just to make it harmless for the person to go near the animal and feed it milk. I am relieved that people are standing up against animal abuse.

When I told my friend about this unseen abuse of animals, my friend was shocked. My friend started telling his friends about the unseen abuse and soon all my friends are against animal abuse. I hope that soon, animals are allowed to be set free from their small cages.

I have been images on Facebook and Instagram that animal abuse is a chargeable offence that could give a person one free ticket to jail or be fined. I hope that everyone will play their part by not going to places that promote animal abuse. People who abuse animals should put themselves in the animal’s shoes. Animals deserve their own freedom.

Creativity in adversity

From: Chloe, Pri 5, Qihua Primary

After reading the article “Why floating gardens are a good idea” (August 2021), I feel both worried and scared because climate change causes a lot of unpredictable circumstances. For example, Singapore has been raining non-stop recently which caused minor flooding. I think this is scary. But, imagine this happening extensively in other countries like Bangladesh and Cambodia. Their lives are affected greatly because they are unable to grow crops like they did in the past. But, I am very impressed with how the villagers showed resilience and creativity by creating floating gardens to continue farming. There are also people who educate children about this system. I feel that spreading awareness about this can make the residents’ lives much better in the future. This innovation is indeed a very smart idea! I really hope that these villagers will have a better life and do not need to worry about survival.

Success from small efforts

From: Qiyuan, Pri 6, North Spring Primary

I am sure that everyone has experienced moments when they just do not want to study for a few weeks. The same goes for me. When I have many crosses in my worksheet, I am just not motivated to learn. It is not fun and dreadful to learn during such moments. I was so tired of studying as it was boring and I did not see any improvements or benefits. Home-based learning did not help as I just felt like I was only staring at a screen. At the end of the year, I almost failed my Science and Mathematics. It was the worst feeling ever.

During the December holidays, I tried studying hard and learning from my mistakes. It was hard at the start. But, it is amazing that I soon improved. Now that I am in Primary 6, I have a very nice Mathematics teacher. He tells funny jokes every time the class behaves well and also teaches in an interesting way. And, I discovered the joy of learning. My grades improved.

I learnt that even when studying may be boring and even stressful, I should always think optimistically and pay attention to the teacher. Improvements never come fast. But, work hard and stay hopeful. Do not be stressed, eat well and rest early! As it has been said, “success is the sum of small efforts, repeated day in and day out”.

From: Julia, Pri 6, CHIJ Our Lady of Good Counsel

As we commemorate our nation’s birthday on 9 August, we must not forget how far we have come in these 56 years. We must never take our multiracial, multicultural, and religious harmony for granted. Even if we are just a little red dot on the globe, there is so much we can cherish on this island. This year’s national day theme is “Together Our Singapore Spirit”. To me, this phrase means Singaporeans coming together, united as one. If we all stand in solidarity, we can overcome any crisis. During this pandemic, I was really happy that people are bringing joy to others during uncertain times. Making masks, thanking our frontline workers, these are some examples that display our Singapore Spirit. I hope we will continue to show kindness to everyone in this beautiful garden city!

Books vs movies

From: Francesca, Pri 6, Haig Girls’ School

Which is better — watching a movie based on a book or reading the book itself? In my opinion, I think reading the book is much better than watching a movie based on the book. Reading can improve our mastery of languages. Books can also widen and develop our imagination better than movies. Besides, most movies distract. We may be distracted from our studies because of the interesting movies on Netflix, YouTube, or other sources. I know most of you would say that movies help us to unwind after a long day of work. But, would you rather watch a movie that inaccurately portrays what is written in the book? Or, would you rather read a book that explains the story in detail, and you can also go back to the page you like most?

For me, I prefer books. Compared to movies, I find that I understand the stories better. I also find that movies often missed some important parts of the stories. My English grades also became better as I read more books. So, I have decided to stick to the habit of reading books. The next time you are in a dilemma of whether to watch a movie based on a book or read the book, try reading the book. I am sure you will enjoy it!

True friends are worth keeping

From: Beth, Pri 6, Tao Nan School

Friendships are never easy to maintain. But, I do not think it is right to give up on a friendship just because you moved up to different classes, had a fight or misunderstanding, or found other people to talk to. We can try our very best to keep the friendship. But, if that friend is toxic, like he (or she) says mean things to you and hurts your feelings over and over again, then I don’t think it is a friendship worth keeping. It will just be a vicious cycle and it will not be healthy. True friends will stay by you through thick or thin, will never say anything to hurt you on purpose, and will always help you through the hardest times in your life.

Let’s change to save lives

From: Akmal, Pri 6, Madrasah Irsyad Zuhri Al-Islamiah

A lot has been happening around the world, for example the COVID-19 pandemic, climate change, riots, etc. One of the biggest problems the world is facing is plastic pollution. The world is getting engulfed in plastic waste. Plastic pollution is the accumulation of plastic objects, like plastic bottles and bags, in the earth’s environment that adversely affects wildlife and humans. Imagine a sea turtle swimming through the water in search of food and finding a white blob floating near the surface. “Yummy”, thinks the turtle, thinking the white blob is a jellyfish and eating it. Little does the poor turtle know that the floating blob is not what it thinks it is, but a plastic bag. Unknowingly eating plastic bags has made many other aquatic animals and even some land animals very sick. Do you know that many animals, from birds to fish, are killed due to plastic waste? This, in turn, impacts human life. So, let us turn the tables and let’s change to help both humans and animals. Working together, everything is possible.

Be kind!

From: Neetu, Pri 5, St Anthony’s Canossian Primary

To show kindness is something so simple, anyone can do it. We always have a choice to be kind or rude. And, when you have the choice, choose to be kind. Do you recall when was the last time you were ever kind to someone? We should be kind not only to the people you know, but to people you don’t know at all. When you show kindness, you always make someone’s day. What does kindness mean? Some dictionaries define it as the quality of being friendly, generous, and considerate. It includes doing something helpful, accepting someone the way they are, and showing empathy. Everyone has different ways of showing kindness. We can be kind by just doing something small. There are many ways to be kind. We can just smile to someone or maybe help them pick up their things when they drop it. Anyone can be kind! Always remember no matter how small the kind acts are, they are never wasted.

We’ll overcome together

From: Shifa, Pri 5, Telok Kurau Primary

The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted all of us. Many jobs are lost. Schools moved to home-based learning. Now, we can only have two visitors in our home. However, we are still very fortunate when compared to the situation in India. We should not give up just yet. We are in it all together. Let us help one another during this pandemic. And, with home-based learning, we can spend more time with our family.

Failed? Try and try again…

From: Rylee, Pri 6, Haig Girls’

Do you feel scared when you are about to get back your exam results? This is especially when you need your parents to sign your exam papers. And, sometimes they will ask you why you scored badly or even give you an earful. Well, that is exactly how I feel when I am about to receive my exam results.

But, do not be scared about failing. Even though your results may not be what you have expected, failure is always part of the road to success. If you do not even know where your weakness is, how can you even improve on it? Once we receive our results, do not be scared. We should learn from the mistakes and try our best to do better. We can even think the same way during competitions or other events as well. If your team has lost the match, do not be scared that your teammates will blame you for the failure. There will always be another competition and another chance to win. But, the most important part is to practice hard and put in more effort for the next competition.

Practice makes perfect. As long as you practise and work hard, you can achieve your goal. I lost in a netball match before and was blamed by my teammates. I was very disappointed in myself. From that day, I started to practise every day, until the next competition arrived. Finally, out team managed to get 2^nd place! All the hard work paid off in the end. So, have faith in yourself and don’t give up!

Persevere, don’t give up!

From: Natasha, Pri 5, Teck Ghee Primary

Perseverance is one of the values that everyone must have. If we do not have it, we would just give up easily when faced with any challenges, problems, or difficulties. We have to strive to overcome when faced with difficulties. No matter what, we have to persevere to think of effective and responsible solutions to solve our problems When we are not able to overcome the problems by ourselves, we have to know how to seek help and not be scared to tell anyone about our challenges. When we fail at something, we have to bounce back from our failures. When there are changes in life, for example, moving to a new home and/or school, we have to adapt to the changes. Besides that, when we want to achieve our dreams, we should not give up. Perseverance can help us in getting through many challenges in life.

Focus on the light

From: Kai Ting, Pri 5, Teck Ghee Primary

What do you think of when you hear the word “stars”? Meteor showers? Bright lights? Shooting stars? Balls of gas? Upon hearing the word “stars”, the first thing I think of is a shooting star. Shooting stars are thought to make wishes come true. Although they do not actually make wishes come true, to me, stars symbolise hope. When you gaze at the night sky, you see darkness. But, amid the darkness, there are stars shining brightly. If the darkness were to symbolise all the challenges you will face when you embark on a journey, the stars are like lights guiding you in your journey. Always look at the light instead of at the darkness. As long as you have hope, you will succeed in whatever you do.

Let’s protect the Earth

From: Xin’Ai, Pri 6, Haig Girls’

We should protect the Earth because it is currently the only planet that can sustain life, and our resources are also limited. I think Resource Defence should be one of Singapore’s pillars of Total Defense because it is important to conserve our resources and raise awareness about it. We should all learn how to conserve our resources so that we can leave a better future for generations to come. For me, I have been bringing my own container to school to store food from the canteen instead of using the disposable containers provided. As a Cree Indian prophecy says, “Only when the last tree has been cut down, the last fish been caught, and the last stream poisoned, will we realise we cannot eat money.”

Olympic Games bring people together

From: Yusuf, Pri 6 Care, Telok Kurau Primary

I always love watching the Olympic Games. I remember back in 2016, Joseph Schooling won Singapore’s first gold medal at the Olympic Games in swimming. I was immensely proud of him then! I feel that if the Olympic Games can be held safely and with the appropriate safe management measures this year, we should go ahead as it would really show how resilient we are, no matter how challenging the situation could be. In addition, I think the Olympic Games demonstrates harmony and is able to bring all the countries together in this trying period where COVID-19 prevails. Hence, I hope that the Olympic Games will be held this year, showing our irrepressible spirit and adaptability in these challenging times.

Safe practices during the pandemic

From: Andhi, Pri 6, Opera Estate Primary

Masks are an important measure to saving lives. But, even if you are wearing a mask, you still have to keep safe distancing, avoid crowds, keep your hands clean, and cover sneezes and coughs. If you are caught not wearing a mask for the first time, you will have to pay a fine of $300. And, if you persist in not wearing a mask, then you will face higher fines or you will have to go to court for the worst cases. These are good practices we should observe:

clean our hands before and after putting on or removing our masks.
make sure the mask covers your nose, mouth, and chin
store the mask in a clean plastic bag if we are going to take the mask off for a long time.
Wash re-usable masks after each use
Immediately put your mask back on after eating or drinking.

I know it is suffocating to wear a mask for a long time. But we have to, so that together we can all defeat the coronavirus.

My lovable aunt

From: Akshieka, Pri 5, Woodlands Primary

There is an older family member whom I enjoy spending time with. She is none other than my 45-year old aunt whom we affectionately call “the Sun” in our big happy family. “The Sun” has the incredible ability of brightening up a dull day anytime and anywhere! This is one of the many reasons why I enjoy spending time with her. She has baking as her side profession and simply loves baking cakes, tarts, and other scrumptious pastries. The pastries made by this favourite aunt of mine look beautiful and, trust me, they taste even better! While I am soft spoken, “the Sun” is boisterous. She loves it when it is lively and cheerful around her. Other than this, we are very much alike. I just adore my aunt for who she is. I am thankful to have such a wonderful aunt indeed!

Do you really care?

From: Chloe, Pri 6, Haig Girls’

You say you care
For the future generations
For your descendants
For your kids.
But is that true?

Every day I see you
Using disposable containers
Using plastic bags
Not recycling.
You say that it’s more convenient
That it’s hassle free
That it’s
Okay.

My question is
Is it really okay?
Global warming is real.
It may not affect you.
And that I envy.

But what about your kids
The ones that you say
you care, for their future
They only have one Earth to live in
And are you protecting it?

A WALK TO NOWHERE

In our March 2021 issue of What’s Up, we wrote a story on “forest bathing”, which is about immersing oneself in nature. Our readers try a tree bath and write about their experience.

By: Siddharth, Pri 4, St Stephen’s School

Tree bathing means walking amongst trees without saying a word. I watched a video on YouTube about how people in Japan go tree bathing. I got curious and went down to my condo compound to try tree bathing all by myself. I saw many trees when I went tree bathing, and picked up some leaves and flowers, then went home to study them.

I started to wonder how old these trees were and who had planted them. I felt very curious about these trees and leaves. Some of the flowers I picked up from the ground smelt nice but some also smelt bad as they were beginning to rot. The dried leaves on the ground had turned hard. They curled up and were like little buckets of water after the rain. All the leaves had different shapes. Each tree’s leaf had a different pattern. Each leaf pattern seemed to tell a story. I picked up one leaf that looked like a knife and picked up another leaf that looked like the leaf on the Canadian flag. I also found a leaf that looked like the Hindu god Lord Krishna’s conch shell.

There are many different types of trees in the compound. The rain tree is the most famous tree in Singapore. There are a lot of rain trees near my condo and some in my condo compound. The sea almond tree is another common tree in Singapore. There are so many of these trees growing in my condo compound that the whole playground is surrounded by it. There are also palm trees on small circular “islands” in the middle of the swimming pool. I saw some bird’s nest ferns growing on the rain trees near the condo gate and I recalled learning about the ferns in Science class when I was in Primary 3. I even saw a small bat roosting under the fern.

Many people love to go tree bathing. I would like to go tree bathing at sunrise while I am on my way to school because it is very calm and peaceful then. I would walk slowly amongst the trees looking at the textures and colours of the tree trunks and leaves. I like it when the morning sun shines through the branches of the trees. I really liked my tree bathing experience. I will go tree bathing again but this time I will do it somewhere else. Tree bathing is really a wonderful experience as you get to be very close to nature.

From: Rachelle, Pri 5, Methodist Girls School (Primary)

As my feet rustled against the heaps of dried leaves, I took in the refreshing scent of grass. The canopy of trees protected me from the glare of the sun. A thin beam of light penetrated through, almost as if the skies were holding out their torch for me.

I heard sounds of insects chirping. They appeared to be welcoming me. Insects must be all around us and should be found in all places. But strangely, it is only on this walk through the MacRitchie Reservoir that their sounds seemed crystal clear to me.

In contrast to the muddy trail that I walked on, beautiful flowers lined my path. There were flowers in various shades of pink, purple, and orange. My fingers gently stroked the flower petals. They were so smooth and tender. Until today, I did not know that so many flowers existed at MacRitchie Reservoir.

As I continued walking, the trail I was on opened out to a grassy open space. Somewhat tired by my stroll, I laid down on the grass to look up at the sky above me. Dogs, clowns, and even a butterfly greeted my eyes. After a few moments, a cupcake appeared, to my delight!

Taking in the panoramic view of the skies above, I realised with a shock that this part of the world had always existed alongside my busy schedule. I had never noticed this gorgeous side of nature because I was simply too caught up with rushing everywhere. I had never stopped to see, smell, and feel nature around me.

As I left MacRitchie Reservoir, I made a promise to come back every once in a while, and I would be certain to bring along a family member or friend with me each time. A beauty as great as nature does not deserve to be hidden behind our busy schedules and should be embraced and cherished by everyone.

Acts of kindness

In our February 2021 issue, we wrote about how the people of Beirut were recovering from a big explosion the year before. Our readers share what they would do, through big and small acts of kindness, to help the children affected by the blast.

From: Khloe, Pri 6, Tao Nan School

One big act of kindness would be saving up $100,000 dollars to donate to the different families in Beirut. However, $100,000 is a lot money. It is not so simple for a 12-year-old to do that. Nevertheless, small acts of kindness would also change lives.

First, I would donate all my toys to the kids in Beirut since I am too old for playing with toys now. Of course, I would wash all my toys — I have many toys, and I think that the kids in Beirut deserve them more than I do. Next, I would donate my clothes to them. Like my toys, I have tons of clothes. And, since I outgrew many of them, I can donate my clothes to the kids instead of throwing them away. Then, they can save money to buy other important stuff such as food.

Finally, if possible, I would go to the kids’ homes to play with them and keep them company. Since I enjoy playing with kids, I am sure I will bond well with them. Some of the kids’ parents might be super busy working to earn money. Hence, I can take this opportunity to spend time with them. I am sure these small acts of kindness can help the kids in Beirut!

From: Zara Alyssa, Pri 5, Woodlands Primary

Hello there. I am Alyssa from Singapore. I am saddened by the news about the blast in Beirut. All our prayers goes out to all the children in Beirut.

I wish to donate my toys and clothes to them. I have so many unused clothes and toys at home. I hope that they could cheer up the children who have suffered from the explosion. I would also bake cookies and sell them. I will donate money to the children. I have not tried baking before but for the sake of the children, I will learn from my Mum as she is an expert in baking. It would also be awesome if my Mum would want to join me because she can bake cakes. I would also welcome other bakers who would want to join me in this fundraising event. I’m sure that my twin sister will also want to join me.

I would also want to share the news of this tragedy to the rest of the world. I can do so in my own way by using my Facebook & Instagram to share about the news and our effort to lend our helping hand to the victims. I really hope that the children’s homes can be rebuilt with the money that I hope to raise. Nothing is more important than seeing the children’s smiles. I hope that they will find strength with each new day. May it bring them all to a full and speedy recovery. Hang in there, better days are coming.

From: Froi Gavin, Pri 5, Northoaks Primary School

If I were living in Beirut, I would do these acts of kindness to help the children who were affected by the blast.

One big act of kindness is collecting donations from neighbours. I will send flyers to my neighbours’ homes and inform them that we are collecting old clothes and toys for the affected people of Beirut. I will then go around and collect their donation. These will be repacked and distributed to the victims of the explosion.

As of the three little acts of kindness. I will do the following:

The first one is to volunteer and go to the evacuation centres to help distribute the donations received from different charities. The second act of kindness is to donate money. I will organise a small garage sale and donate the money to the victims. This will help the children and their families to buy some of their basic needs such as medicines, toiletries, and clean water. The third act of kindness is to bake simple breads like banana bread and cheese bread and give them to the evacuation centres. The food we make comes from the heart.

Tips for reducing stress

From: Delia, Pri 5, Tao Nan School

Even as a child, we can experience many types of stress. The most common type of stress in children is stress over exams. But, what are some ways to reduce exam stress? Do not do last-minute revisions as it might feel even more stressful. Pay attention in class and go home to revise what the teachers have taught us. By revising every day, we do not have to rush at the eleventh hour and panic the day before the exam. While too little stress leads to boredom, too much can cause anxiety and poor health. The right amount of stress tunes up the brain and improves performance and health. Allow yourself time to relax, read a book or listen to some music — anything that helps you to de-stress a little. Overall, don’t over-pressure yourself or be too hard on yourself!

Some stress is helpful

From: Zheng Kai, Pri 5, Tao Nan School

Reading “How to Make stress your friend” (February 2021) has really changed my view on stress. To a large extent, I fully agree that a little bit of stress would spur me to aim higher. I vividly remember a few years ago when I was under pressure to pass my exam with flying colours. The stress made me work harder and in the end my dream was fulfilled. In my opinion, I think that many people would be encouraged to think that stress is good for them after reading this article. Stress may even be good for our health. Unfortunately, some people might still find it immensely difficult to change. It is important to have a growth mindset. Stress may not always be gloom and doom. It is how we perceive it that counts. With the right mindset and attitude, we would be able to have a clean bill of health.

Our hidden heroes

From: Diya, Pri 5, Greendale Primary

Think about this — if your favourite superhero is standing right in front of you, what would you do? Superman, Ironman, Captain America, and Hulk are superheroes you may know. But, have you ever thought of the real superheroes in your life? Have you ever thought of a superhero without superpowers?

The real superheroes are the frontline workers! These include people like doctors, nurses, cleaners, etc. They are the ones who help us in our everyday life. We see them almost everywhere, but none of us ever thought of thanking them. They are risking their lives for us during the COVID-19 period. But, we are too busy in our lives or routines to thank them. You might think that a small smile is no big deal. But, it goes a long way. I think we should appreciate these “hidden” heroes more.

What I do to reduce stress

From: Kaede, Pri 6, Tao Nan School

After reading “How to make stress your friend” (February 2021), I tried different activities during the weekend to reduce my stress. I tried reading, swimming, and watching television. The activity I enjoyed the most was reading. I challenged myself to read at least five chapters. But, the book was so interesting that I read 15 chapters! Even though I enjoyed reading the most, all the other activities did help me to reduce stress.

After trying out these activities over the weekend, I feel like I could start doing some of these daily. For example, when I have spare time, I can go for a swim or read my favourite book. Time should not be all spent on doing work. In fact, if I am tired, I should not do work. If I do, I might be too tired to remember the things that I learnt. Then, doing work would be useless.

After reading this article, I learnt that stress is not necessarily a bad thing. There is good stress too! Believing that stress is bad might make you suffer even more from it.

Should animals work for people?

From: Nadine, Pri 6, Haig Girls’

A while ago, my class had a debate on whether animals should work for humans. I am personally not a big fan of animals so I had ready a long list of reasons why animals should work for us. Quite obviously, most of the class were against the idea of animals working for humans. They stated that it was abuse.

But from my point of view, it seemed far from mistreating animals at all. After all, if humans can work for humans, then why can’t animals? Animals play a huge part in many people’s lives, not just as pets. We need them to assist scientists, guide the blind, and do so many other tasks. I felt that my classmates were only listing down the negative things that could possibly happen to animals like getting severely injured or being abused by their owners. Those were only ifs and the possibility of that happening was not 100%.

On the plus side, however, animals provide us with food and medicine. Their fur coats keep people who live in cold countries warm and they help us in making new vaccines, transplant procedures, etc. Whether their owners treat them well or not, is a different story. From my perspective, it is not wrong for animals to work for humans. It just depends on whether the owner is a good one or not.

Get a grip on your mental energy

From: Akshara, Pri 5, CHIJ Our Lady of Good Counsel

I really like reading What’s Up as it is full of interesting articles. The article by John Munro was a very interesting and useful article. I strongly agree that we must resist distractions to concentrate well. When I am studying, I often get distracted by my surroundings. For example, last week when I was doing my homework in my room, I suddenly noticed that my books were all over the place. Immediately, I stopped my homework and arranged all the books in the shelves. Then, I heard some noise. I saw my mother watching television. Without making any noise, I too started watching television. Only when she spotted me and ordered me to go back to my room, did I grudgingly go back to doing my homework. One action led to another and another.

However, when I concentrate, I am a whole different person. I get an hour’s work done in thirty minutes! One of the ways I stop myself from getting distracted, is saying “no”! As simple as it may seem, it truly is very effective. Sometimes, you are the only person who can help yourself. One of my worst enemy (distraction) is my own thoughts! When you think about something, for example what is for today’s dinner, it leads on to another thought, then another until you are totally in “dreamland” and you forget about what you were supposed to be doing. Prof John Munro’s article has helped me a lot as I have more ideas on how to stop my distractions from getting the better of me. Thank you What’s Up!

From: Jade, Pri 5, CHIJ Our Lady of Good Counsel

… Distractions that we “play” with may be time consuming, so we have no choice but to “break up” with them and make new friends with the “concentrating team”. In a story, distractors would be the miscreants that are trying to lure us into their own world, but the “concentrating team” is the one that is trying to save you from the miscreants to keep you going! That is what we should be practising every day to prevent distractions from “attacking” us.

From: Naina, Pri 6, Punggol Green Primary School

For me, one of my main distractions is music. I absolutely love music. I really like to listen to music when I study. Sometimes, I jam out to Shawn Mendes, Camila Cabello, and Billie Eilish. They are awesome singers, but their vocals can get distracting especially while I am trying to study. I end up throwing a mini concert in my head. … One way to avoid distractions is to visualise the outcome of the work that you are doing and think about what you will achieve if you put in effort. Perhaps a good grade for school or a treat that your parents had promised to get you if you did well. I also know that I should plan and gather all the materials I need for the activity or the project I am working on. This prevents me from moving around the house to get what I need as I may get distracted by something that is nearby.

From: Kai En, Pri 5, Tao Nan School

When I do my homework, I usually peek to watch the television programme that is on, and my mind wonders off from my homework because the television programme sounds interesting. Once, I watched some robots fighting on a television programme and when I got back to my studying, my mind continues to envision the scene in the programme. So, in order to concentrate, I will find ways to tell my parents to lower the volume or close the door.

From: Haidee, Pri 6, Punggol Green Primary School

While doing my homework, my parents would call me to do some chores or to help them. My sister would also annoy me at times by turning the music on too loudly or task me to clean the rabbit cage when I am in the midst of doing my homework. What I would usually do to concentrate better while doing my homework is to close the door so that my parents would know that I have something important going on and would not disturb me.

Sometimes, I tend to overthink. “What if I can’t finish my homework on time? I don’t think I’ll get much sleep today.” Such thoughts run through my mind and tend to distract me. To calm myself down, I would listen to slow and soothing music so that it can help me to focus better. I could also take a walk in the park and get some rest to calm myself down before working on my tasks. I should also work on communicating effectively to my family members to be considerate when I would like to focus on and complete my homework.

From: Kevin, Pri 6, Bukit View Primary

I am always absentminded. I get distracted by noise and smell. Sometimes, my mom cooks something delicious and I will want to eat the food so badly. Sometimes, my sister watches television and I also get distracted from my work.

My own feelings also distract me a lot, like when I am studying, and people are playing downstairs. The noise of the door creaking, the sounds of the birds chirping, all distract me a lot. One way I can prevent distractions is to ask the person who is making all the noise to lower down his volume. I could also go to my room to study instead of studying in the hall.

Favourite joyride

From: Maryam, Pri 5, Wellington Primary School

I enjoy taking the train because it is fast. It can fit more people, so the same amount of fuel used can transport more people than a car can. The train is long so if you are bored looking at your phone screen you may want to can walk around and explore if the train is not full. The best part is the air conditioning because you can feel the cold breeze as Singapore is hot most of the time. When I was younger and I was bored on the train, I would spin around the poles by hanging on to them. You can also test your balance by standing without holding on to anything and trying not to move your feet. If you don’t have a car because in Singapore it is a bit expensive to own one, there are trains, buses, and other public transport.

From: Lucius, Pri 3, Tao Nan School

My favourite form of transport is the train. During the December holidays, my father and I went on two joyrides. First, we took the East West Line from Eunos to Tuas Link. I was excited to see the tracks merging near Joo Koon station. Next, we explored the North South Line. We travelled past every station along the line. The highlight was Jurong East station because I got to see many platforms. I loved these adventures!

From: Iwani, Pri 5, Endeavour Primary School

I love taking the bus the most. Buses can take us anywhere in a rather short period of time. I really enjoy taking the double-decker buses as I can admire the view from the second level of the bus. The beauty of nature often blankets me in positivity. In fact, recently, I grinned from ear to ear because of a wonderful experience on a bus. I was heading home and waiting for my bus to arrive. Although I had injured my leg from a recent terrible fall, I was determined to ascend to the top level of the bus as soon as it came. That day, the bus was packed. I navigated through the sea of people to go to the second level. I was greeted by disappointment when I realised that there was no vacant seat for me. I was so crestfallen that I sighed loudly. Out of the blue, a gentleman came and offered me his seat. My eyes lit up like glittering stars in the night sky. In all honesty, this heart-warming incident of a man offering his seat for me to rest comfortably and admire the beauty outside of the bus, may be the true reason why I love taking buses. I believe a bus is human’s greatest invention. It allows ample time for one to soak in the beauty of scenery and is full of wonderful people around.

Good-bye 2020, hello 2021

From: Rutvi, Pri 5, Changkat Primary

2020 was a year where everyone learnt something new. For instance, taking good care of personal hygiene, practicing social distancing, and lots more. I learnt to be more patient with waiting for things to arrive from online shopping platforms, as we avoided going out as much to purchase things in physical shops. I also took up many hobbies and attended many online classes. I am looking forward to making new friends in 2021 and also hoping that COVID-19 will end soon.

Thank you, my friend!

From: Sijin, Pri 5, Sembawang Primary

Growing up, I faced a lot of problems with friendship and don’t have many friends. Some of them talked bad things about me behind my back but most of them were there for me when I was down. I am really thankful for a friend who helped me get out of the darkness and helped me find my way to the bright side. I am most thankful to that one friend who has been there with me for four years.

Be an upstander!

From: Bachanna, Pri 6, Bukit View Primary

I will tell the teacher about any bullying behaviour. Bullying is bad as kids who are bullied are more likely to experience depression and anxiety. We should not hesitate to do the right thing. Suffering in silence will not solve the problem. We should not be afraid to be an upstander as that will make things better, not worse.

Tips to control your anger

From: Tyler, Pri 5, St Andrew’s Junior

I would like to give some suggestions on how we can handle anger when we lose a game:
(1) If you like winning so badly, you will have to work hard to master the skills. You may find techniques and tricks to win the game.
(2) Whenever you get angry, try to take three deep breaths and wash your face before you lash out your anger.
(3) You can also talk to someone about your problems while trying to control your anger.

A different but enjoyable Deepavali

From: P S, Pri 6, Changkat Primary

I wanted to share what it is like to celebrate Deepavali during the COVID-19 pandemic. We did a lot of fun stuff. Since we did not go out to buy snacks, we made them at home. I got to see how to make my favourite Indian snacks. We also normally have family members coming from India, but this year we could not do that, so we celebrated online. We had a virtual setup, and decorated the background. We invited family members from both maternal and paternal sides of the family. And we made a beautiful rangoli on our doorstep.

We eat the plastic we throw away

From: Selvakumar, Pri 6, Edgefield Primary

Most of us know that the plastic we throw away ends up in the ocean. But, is everyone aware that we eat some of the plastic we throw out? Let me explain: fishes eat the plastic that is in the ocean. And, we eat the fish. So, aren’t we eating some of the plastic we have thrown out?

We can actually develop diseases from eating plastic. So, by indiscriminately throwing away plastic, we are harming both the aquatic creatures and ourselves. To prevent this, we have to avoid wasting plastic. We can stop using plastic straws. Instead, we can use metal straws. Although they are more expensive, we are saving our planet by doing so.

Another way of saving the planet is to reuse things. How can someone reuse plastic? One can reuse plastic by making it into something else. Like what? Plastic bottles can be made into DIYs items. Some examples are pencil cases, watering cans, and flower pots. Let’s be kind to our planet earth.

Pretending I am blind

From: Hajin, Pri 5, St Anthony’s Canossian Primary

I think the visually impaired people are very brave. Once in a while, I would close my eyes, pretending I am blind. Then, I would grope around my room and check if there is anything blocking my way before I take a step. Even though the surroundings are familiar, I am still afraid to take a step. Why? Because there is an imaginary wall surrounding me, threatening me that I will slam into it. I am too scared to do anything, and I would quickly open my eyes.

This terrifying experience lasted only about ten seconds for me. Blind people have to go through this every day, all year long. Some of them can barely or totally cannot see where they are walking to, and they only have a thin little walking stick to rely on. They really need a lot of courage just to take one little step.

Shocked by fake pilots

From: Sophia, Pri 6, Nan Hua Primary

I was both shocked and saddened to find out that the plane crash in May 2020, at Karachi, that killed 97 people could be because of the incompetent pilots who flew the plane. These pilots had obtained their licenses without sitting for the necessary exams.

I believe that if the pilots had taken the exams and had gotten their licenses through proper means, this crash could have been avoided and lives would not have been lost in this tragic incident. It must be very sad and shocking for the family members of those who had died or had been injured in this plane crash. Apart from the pilots, I think the company Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) is in the wrong too, as they should have checked that the pilots were qualified to fly.

Safety is the first priority. I hope unqualified pilots would never get to fly and endanger the lives of others so that this would not happen again.

I love “Peanuts”

From: Lavanya, Pri 6, Changkat Primary

I am happy that many people love the old comic series, “Peanuts”. Even though it was published more than half a century ago, I still love the way it is written. I love the way Mr Charles M Schulz drew and wrote every single one of it as it was said in the article. It is a good concept to include failure in the strips.

Unlike many other cartoons and comic strips, Charlie Brown almost never had a happy ending. I like how his friends support him even though he is not always very lucky. I have also watched a few of the films such as A Boy named Charlie Brown. In The Peanuts Movie, Charlie Brown’s luck was changed and he got lucky. It was different from the older films but most of it stayed the same.

I love the way that Snoopy, Charlie Brown’s beagle, was not created to be a regular dog. It was even smarter than Charlie Brown. I am glad that many artists are trying to bring “Peanuts” back to life. I hope it remains famous for a long time!

Hidden Heroes

From: Navya, Pri 6, Edgefield Primary

Many of us admire the people who climb Mount Everest. So do I. But, have any of us actually wondered who are working endlessly behind the scenes to ensure that the climbers are safe? There is a very special group of people who play a very important part indeed — the Sherpas. They are extraordinary. Living in the high peaks of the Himalayas, Sherpas are a Nepalese ethnic group numbering around 150,000. They are renowned for their climbing skills, superior strength, and endurance at high altitudes. They act as guides and porters who do everything from carrying loads to setting up camps. They secure climbing routes, fix lines, ferry supplies, and guide clients to the top of Everest and other Himalayan peaks. The most famous Sherpa was Tenzing Norgay, who in 1953 was one of the first two men — Edmund Hillary was the other — to climb Mount Everest. Sadly, not many people know about these hidden heroes.

Being grateful is the key to happiness

From: Rutvi, Pri 5, Changkat Primary

I am grateful for numerous things. How about you? Take about 20 seconds to think about the things you are grateful for, eg. having enough food to survive, having hardworking parents to fulfil all your needs and give you all the things you wish for. Be grateful for having friends and family who care about you and are always there by your side. I am grateful for all these things and many more. The only message I would like to convey to all of you is, please do not take things for granted, be happy with what you have, and appreciate everyone around you.

Be the light in the darkness

From: Maahika, Pri 5, Changkat Primary

This COVID-19 crisis has handed the world a myriad of problems. Physically, people are getting sick and many have died from it, too. Mentally, people are stressed. Every other person is thinking, “Oh no! What is going to happen in the future?”. On the economic front, people are losing jobs. Without money, how could people buy food and all their family’s necessities? How will we live through this crisis?

The frontline warriors are lifesavers. They are trying their best to keep our country safe. They are giving medical care to the sick and screening so many people. Let’s take them as our inspiration and step up to face this challenge together. We should be socially responsible — follow social distancing measures, wear masks, practise good hygiene, and take all necessary precautions. Instead of doing handshakes, try foot shakes. Try greeting by elbow taps, or the Thai and Indian way (Namaste). Besides taking care of ourselves, we should remind others. Let’s all have a positive attitude. We can do this! Each of us can be the light that shines into the darkness cast by COVID-19.

From disappointment to hope

From: Hsin Ling, Pri 6, Woodlands Ring Primary

The COVID-19 pandemic has been catastrophic for human beings globally. Because of the pandemic, many gatherings and events all over the world could not take place. I have been affected too. For me, many of my keenly anticipated events had to be either cancelled or postponed. COVID-19 disrupted my plans and changed my daily life.

I first heard about the COVID-19 virus appearing in China around last year’s Lunar New Year. It caught my attention as I was supposed to travel to China in the following month. I did not think too much about it then. I just hoped that it would not affect my overseas learning journey to Beijing, which I had been looking forward to. I longed to go to China as my social studies teacher told me that there were many fascinating places and breath-taking scenes in China. I yearned for the opportunity as studying outside school is more interesting than at school. We could gain knowledge beyond textbooks and broaden our horizons, instead of just sitting in the classroom. As time flew by, unfortunately, the COVID-19 continued to spread across the world, causing my overseas learning journey to be cancelled. Although I understood why it had to be cancelled, I was devastated. My family also had to cancel our annual trip to Taiwan to visit our relatives during the Circuit Breaker. It had been more than a year since I last saw them.

The COVID-19 pandemic has also created challenges and inconveniences in our daily lives. We have to wear masks outside and maintain social distancing to minimise the spread of COVID-19. However, this crisis has also brought out the best in human spirits. We have read about many unsung heroes who go out of their way to bring food to the poor and needy. Our doctors, nurses, and other frontline workers are still fighting bravely against the virus so that we may lead as normal a life as possible. Thank you, frontliners, for all the selfless sacrifices you have made! I believe if we work together by taking the safety measures seriously, we can defeat COVID-19 and win this battle. I hope that this day will come soon.

Leading is about serving

From: Amira, Pri 6, Qihua Primary

I am a prefect in my school and I am passionate about leadership. I do not think leading is about having the authority to boss others around. In fact, I see leadership as an opportunity to not only help yourself but others too, and that everyone can be a leader. To lead others, you first have to lead yourself. If you were to be a leader, you would need to have the drive to help others. Leading can be as simple as giving a reminder to lead them in the right path. As a prefect, I often see students my age not wearing their masks properly. The right thing to do, of course, is to remind them. Everyone can play a part. During this pandemic, we are not individuals but rather one team. Who knew that a crisis could pose an opportunity to unite us?

Shocked by dishonesty

From: Kate Lynn, Pri 5, Tao Nan Primary

After reading the article “Identity thieves hit exams in China” (August 2020), I was shocked. I never knew that there were people who were so dishonest as to steal other people’s gaokao results in China! Gaokao is a very important exam for students as it determines if the students are able to enter university. There is one sentence in the article that struck me the most — “Mr Qiu said his daughter had used Ms Jing’s 1997 gaokao score to get into a vocational school.” To be honest, I totally did not expect a teacher’s daughter to do it. It totally shocked me. Ms Jing worked so hard just to make sure she would be able to get into a vocational school. However, her form teacher’s daughter used her results. In the end, Ms Jing had no choice but to knock on doors to sell shampoo and pay phones. I hope Mr Qiu’s daughter will turn over a new leaf as Ms Jing could have used her extraordinary results to get into her dream school.

Do not waste food

From: Abinandhan, Pri 6, Telok Kurau Primary

I am writing with reference to “Young footballer scores for underprivileged kids.” (July 2020). I have always been a fan of football and how the sport is played. I read about my favourite players keenly. This time, after reading the article about how Marcus Rashford, the famous footballer, helped the underprivileged kids in the United Kingdom, I was touched by what he did. I realised that Marcus is not only skillful in playing the sport which motivates young sports fans like me. His good heart in extending his kindness to others and doing the good deeds is truly inspiring to me.

When I read that he provided meals for underprivileged kids, I recalled with shame how I have developed the bad habit of wasting food. At almost every meal, I would have leftover food which were usually thrown away. It struck me how fortunate I was not to have to worry about my next meal. From reading this article, I have learnt that we should not take food or anything else for granted. This article is a good reminder that l should try my best to reduce the amount of food that I waste. What’s Up articles do create awareness in readers like me of what is happening around the world and how fortunate we are to be in Singapore where we get everything without much difficulty.

Overcoming challenges

From: Zhong Chen, Pri 6, Telok Kurau Primary

The on-going COVID-19 crisis has indeed caused many changes to our daily life. It has been half a year and many countries still battle to move on in this crisis. We have to wear masks when we go to public places, maintain social distancing with one another, take temperature every day when we arrive at school, etc. It has also disrupted food production in many places. However, does this pandemic only bring us problems, inconveniences, and depression? Well, the answer is no.

Although it has posed huge challenges, we have also found ways to overcome them and in doing so, improved our abilities to respond to a global crisis. For example, this pandemic has caused many countries to be locked down and people have had to work or study at home, causing us to digitalise faster than what we had planned. We have had to rethink what we had been doing and to reinvent our ways of doing things. Besides that, it has increased our awareness of leading a healthy lifestyle and maintaining our personal hygiene. Also, it has taught us that we should adapt to the changes in our lives and get used to the new normal.

Most importantly, this crisis has taught us the importance of being responsible — personally and socially. If we all do our own part in preventing the virus from spreading and be a responsible citizen of the world, we will definitely get over this difficult time. Lastly, through this pandemic, I have understood the vulnerability of life and that we should treasure life, no matter how short or long one has. I am awed that some people have braved the crises and come out of them better. Although COVID-19 has taught us new things, I still prefer living the way we did in the past where there was no COVID-19 because many people are dying from it. I could play with my friends without having to wear masks, too. Let’s hope that this pandemic will be over after some time and our lives can go back to the old normal.

Make the world greener

From: Evonne, Pri 5, Clementi Primary

After reading, “A drab town blossoms into a garden” (July 2020), I was in awe of how a group of friends raised enough money to plant 2,100 trees along the roads of Banepa in Nepal. Their efforts in making the town a greener place really inspired me. Though Singapore is already a Garden City, we still should continue to plant more trees and stop deforestation. Climate change has been affecting our lives till today. The temperature has been increasing and sea levels are rising. Trees do help to give a cooler environment for us. That is why we should protect them and not cut them down. Start today. Every action counts. Let’s make the world a cleaner and greener place!

Being famous can be stressful

From: Hwee Qi, Pri 6, Changkat Primary

Why do some people want to become celebrities or social media stars? It might seem a little illogical for those who have never dreamt of being famous before. I think that people want to be popular for many reasons. First, it brings money. Money is important and crucial to survival. Not only that, with more money comes more fame, and on it goes. Second, you can do what you love. Being a social media star seems very relaxing, stress-free, and most importantly, easy, to those who have not been famous previously. However, it is the complete opposite. Being famous means having fans who expect certain things from you which you may not be able to fulfil all the time. Thus, it causes stress and sometimes, psychological issues as the celebrity is being pressured or does not want to let people down. Everyone should think carefully if they really want to become famous.

More than a garden city

From: Yurou, Pri 5, Clementi Primary

After reading “A drab town blossoms into a garden” (July 2020), I was inspired by Rashil’s efforts to plant trees in Banepa. Despite the lack of resources available to him, he overcame the odds and doggedly planted the trees. I do hope that the others in his community will also be inspired and support him in his efforts. Only then can a sustainable difference be made.

If we Singaporeans have such a strong civic-mindedness like Rashil, littering would not be such a glaring problem. Conserving the environment is important. Sometimes, I try to pick up trash when I see them on the floor as this may harm the environment. We should not wait for the government to initiate action. If several of us can come together to work towards making Singapore an environmentally-friendly nation, Singapore would be more than just a garden city!

Do not judge a book by its cover

From: Rivika, Pri 5, Tanjong Katong Primary

I was speechless upon reading “Race protests in the US” (June 2020). Mass protests had erupted all over the United States and tens of thousands people were marching across the streets to demand a change. These people were demanding a change because a black man, George Floyd, had been killed unfairly due to a small crime. Many Americans of all races are very upset about racial profiling. I think that we can all help stop racial profiling. For example, in our school we can treat all our friends and classmate equally and not judge them by their skin colour. We can also not assume what people’s personalities are just by how they look. Just like we should not judge a book by its cover, we also should not judge someone by their skin colour or appearance. I hope we can soon put a stop to racial profiling.

What the pandemic taught me

From: Zhong Chen, Pri 6, Telok Kurau Primary

The on-going COVID-19 crisis has indeed caused many changes to our daily life. It has been over half a year and many countries still battle to move on in this crisis. We have to wear masks when we go to public places, maintain social distancing with one another, take our temperature every day when we arrive at school, and more. It has also disrupted food production in many places. However, does this pandemic only bring us problems, inconveniences, and depression? Well, the answer is no.

Although it has posed us huge challenges, we have also found ways to overcome them and in the process, improve our abilities to respond to a global crisis. For example, this pandemic has caused many countries to be locked down and people have had to work or study at home. This has caused us to digitalize faster than we had thought possible. We have had to rethink what we had been doing and to reinvent new ways of doing things. Besides that, it has increased our awareness of leading a healthy lifestyle and maintaining our personal hygiene. Also, it has taught us that we should adapt to the changes in our lives and get used to the new normal.

Most importantly, this crisis has taught us the importance of being responsible — personally and socially. If we all do our part in preventing the virus from spreading and be a responsible citizen of the world, we will definitely get over this difficult time. Lastly, through this pandemic, I have understood the vulnerability of life and that we should treasure life, no matter how short or long the time. I am awed that some people have braved the crisis and come out better. Although COVID-19 has taught us new things, I will still prefer living the way we did in the past where there was no COVID-19 because many people are dying from it. I could also get to play with my friends without having to wear masks. Let’s hope that this pandemic will be over after some time and our lives can go back to the old normal.

Be the light that shines in the dark

From: Maahika, Pri 4, Changkat Primary

This crisis caused by COVID-19 has landed us in a myriad of problems. Physically, people are getting sick and some people are dying from it too. Mentally, people are panic-stricken. Every second person is thinking, “Oh no! What about the future?”. Economically, people are losing jobs. Outcomes for families are getting worse by the day. Without money, how would people buy food and all the necessary things for survival for their families? How will we ever get out of this quandary?

Our frontline warriors, our lifesavers, are trying their best to keep our country safe. Screening so many people, looking out for people during lockdowns, delivering our items when we need them most. Doctors are giving medical care to the sick. Let us take them as our inspiration and step out to face this challenge together. Our government requires us to follow social distancing measures and wear masks. Washing hands, being socially responsible, and practicing good hygiene are examples of what we should be doing.

Let us take this as a challenge. Take all the necessary precautions. Remind others. Take care of yourselves. Start using online tools. People have started taking online classes. This avoids physical contact. Instead of doing handshakes, try foot shakes. Try greeting by elbow taps, or the Thai and Indian way (namaste). You can still say hello and greet each other. We can do this! Have a positive attitude. When we think that we can, we will overcome this one day. Let’s do this together! COVID-19 is the darkness. Each of us can be the light and shine in this darkness.

Human spirit shines amidst heartbreaks

From: Hsin Ling, Pri 5, Woodlands Ring Primary

The COVID-19 pandemic is catastrophic for human beings globally. Because of the pandemic, many gatherings and events all over the world could not take place. I have been affected too. For me, many of my keenly anticipated events have had to be either cancelled or postponed. COVID-19 disrupted my plans and changed my daily life. I first heard about the virus appearing in China around the Lunar New Year. It got my attention as I was supposed to travel to China in March. I did not think too much about it and hoped that it would not affect my overseas learning journey.

I had been looking forward to the learning journey in Beijing, China, since last year. I longed to go to China as my social study teacher told me that there were many fascinating places and breathtaking views in China. I yearned for such an opportunity as studying outside school is more interesting than at school. We could gain knowledge beyond textbooks and broaden our horizons, instead of just sitting in the classroom. As time went by, unfortunately, the COVID-19 continued to spread across the world, causing my overseas learning journey to be cancelled.

Although I understood why it had to be cancelled, I was devastated. At that moment, my dream shattered and I felt as if my heart was crushed into millions of piece. My family also had to cancel our annual trip to Taiwan to visit our relatives as the departure date was during the Circuit Breaker. It had been almost one year since I last saw them. The COVID-19 pandemic has also created challenges and inconveniences in our daily lives. We have to wear masks outside and maintain social distancing to minimise the spread of COVID-19.

However, this crisis has also brought out the best in the human spirit. We have read about many “unsung heroes” who go out of their way to bring food to the poor and needy. Our doctors, nurses, and other frontline workers are still fighting bravely against the virus, so that we may lead as normal a life as possible. Thank you for all the selfless sacrifices you have made. I believe if we work together by following the rules and taking the safety measures seriously, we can defeat COVID-19 and win this battle. I hope that this day will come soon.

I am a Peanuts fan!

From: Tristan, Pri 6, Tao Nan School

I read your article on the comic strip Peanuts with interest. I am a big fan of Peanuts, and it is one of the things I look forward to the most when I flip through the daily newspapers. It is one of my favourite comic strips as it is really funny and relatable. All the characters have their own unique quirks and that is what I like about them as they feel very real. I was very intrigued to learn about the creator of this comic, Charles M Schultz. I really like how each character embodies a different part of his own personality: he was a loser like Charlie Brown, demanding like Lucy, compassionate like Linus, and more. Also, his quote “Happiness is anyone and anything that’s loved by you” is really inspiring. It reminds me that I should not be too affected by negative thoughts. Instead, I should focus on all the love that I have in my life, from my family and friends, and be grateful for all of that, which is especially pertinent in the current pandemic.

Showing grit in all areas of life

From: Adele, Pri 6, Tao Nan School

I am writing to you about the article “Grit: The power of passion and perseverance” (July 2020). Having grit is of paramount importance if we want to succeed and achieve great results. Grit can help us even if we are not as talented as others. For example, if I am not as good as others but have the eagerness to improve and a never-give-up attitude when doing things, I will improve and slowly get better and better. Talent can only take us to a certain extent but with passion and perseverance, we can soar to greater heights.

We must also have a growth mindset to help us improve and grow as a person and not have a fixed mindset of “Oh, I have failed and there is nothing I can do to improve”. That fixed mindset will never help us to improve and might even make us become worse. Saying that we want to achieve something is not enough. We must have the commitment and really make sure that we will strive for that goal to really achieve it.

We must all have grit when doing things, be it in our studies, our CCAs or our hobbies. Having the passion, perseverance, and commitment to do things is important and can help us in school and in life. Taking that grit that we have into the classroom or office can not only help ourselves but others too. This way, everybody can benefit and have the passion and perseverance when doing anything.

Safety first for NDP

From: Rachelle Amelia, Pri 4, Methodist Girls’ Primary

The COVID-19 pandemic has stretched on for more than six months now in Singapore. We are familiar with social distancing measures and comply with them each day. In August, we display our Singapore flags from our windows and balconies to rally Singaporeans and show unity as one nation. As with past years, we learn to sing national day songs at school and draw the Singapore flag during art lessons. However, due to social distancing measures, we will not have a large-scale national day parade on 9 August this year. The primary 5 students will also miss their NE show (otherwise known as the national day parade preview).

NDP2020 will only involve 300 participants and half that number of spectators. This is a fraction of the tens of thousands who usually participate in past national day parades. NDP2020 will also have two segments, with a morning parade and a ceremony at the Padang so as to space out the crowd and enable more people to be involved.

Some people have commented that NDP2020 will surely be a disappointment given its relatively smaller scale. I do not agree. Our safety and our lives matter much more than having a national day parade on the same scale as we have known in the past years. Celebrating Singapore’s birthday, albeit on a smaller scale, is the correct thing to do.

On 9 August 2020, I will be very excited for the Red Lions as they will be landing in the heartlands for the very first time. I feel that it is very meaningful for them to plan to land at the open fields in Jurong East and Sengkang, near the Ng Teng Fong Hospital and the Sengkang General Hospital, paying tribute to the frontline healthcare workers who have been bravely fighting the COVID-19 battle all this while.

I am glad that the organising committee decided to give out NDP fun packs to every household. This means that we do not need to attend the NDP in order to get a fun pack. In past years, I realised that it is very difficult to obtain tickets to the National Day parade. I would be very envious of my friends who got to attend. This year, my parents collected an NDP fun pack from a nearby community centre and my family is grateful for the useful items in the fun pack. Even though we will be celebrating Singapore’s birthday differently this year, I am sure we will stand united as one nation and feel proud as the Singapore flag is raised to the strains of Majulah Singapura. Singapore, stay strong! We will get through COVID-19 together!

Do our part in the battle COVID-19

From: Steve, Zhongchen, Pri 6, Telok Kurau Primary

As the number of COVID-19 cases increases around the globe, many countries are now taking precautions to control the spread of this new virus. Singapore is one of them. The government of Singapore has been putting in a lot of money and effort for the past few weeks and I feel that the Singapore government is doing well in managing the situation of COVID -19 in the country. However, we cannot only rely on the government to do everything to protect us. We ourselves should help one another during this tough time. We can do our part during this difficult period.

When we spot fake news online or on our social media, we should have the sense not to spread it to others. If we do, then the news may cause unnecessary confusion and panic. This may result in people behaving senselessly and irrationally and causing negative impacts to the others and the society. We should update ourselves about the situation from the government website. If we cannot help those like the medical workers at the frontline or make generous donations, the least we can do is to contribute to the good of others. We need to practise good hygiene habits such as washing our hands with soap frequently and not touch our face with unwashed hands, avoid going to crowded places, sneeze into tissue paper and dispose of it appropriately. These habits will definitely help us and others stay healthy, with or without the COVID-19 crisis.

Finally, do not discriminate against the Chinese or call them derogatory names as we read about in other countries. In the first place, discriminating against others would not help the world get over this difficult period. A time like this calls for people to unite, work together, and find solutions, and help one another to tide over this difficult period, getting out of the situation as quickly as possible. Discrimination would only make the situation worse and cause more negative feelings such as anger. Why add to the existing tense and negative mood? Why not use our words to say something encouraging and positive and for those who need them most? This will turn the gloomy situation round and pave the positive way forward.

For sure, this virus will go away after some time, but those hurtful words surely would remain in the memories and hearts of people for a long time. I believe if we do our part and contribute, no matter how insignificant it may seem, we will be able to ride through the storm and prevent the situation from getting worse. Remember, every word matters and every action counts.

Saddened by war’s accidental victims

From: Althea Mae, Pri 6, Changkat Primary

When I read “War’s accidental victims” (February 2020), I felt sad that the innocent civilians of countries at war were being killed. They had done nothing wrong but they were still affected. All of these civilians were killed even though they did nothing to deserve it. What was even sadder was that they were mostly killed by mistake. Furthermore, I am especially worried for the children our age. They were living in a world where they were in constant danger. If one of their relatives or friends were killed, it would be a traumatic experience for them. It broke my heart to read that a hospital was mistakenly attacked, killing many including doctors that were trying to help and patients who were already injured. Looking back, I feel very grateful to be living in Singapore where we are not at war. We are extremely lucky to not have to worry about being attacked and can go to school safely every day. It might be easy to take this safety for granted but we should also always be vigilant as we never know what might happen to us one day.

Protect endangered animals

From: Jilliane, Pri 6, Tao Nan School

I always advocate for the protection endangered animals, for example, the hornbill, tiger, rhinoceros, and elephant. Elephant tusks, which are made from ivory, can be carved into ornaments and jewellery. The hornbill’s casque can be traded for high profits. Parts from the tiger may have medicinal properties. It is important to protect these animals so that we can conduct research on them, like the axolotl. Scientists can conduct research on them and make new medicines that can help people to regrow limbs lost to accidents and diseases by turning on specific genes in the human body. If these animals continue to survive, future generations can continue to study and research them.

Humans can do their part by studying the breeding and nesting patterns of animals so that they can reproduce and ensure the continuity of their own kind. We should also cut down on deforestation and not destroy the animals’ natural habitats to enable them to thrive. Dinosaurs are extinct. It is such a pity that we cannot see these animals alive. We can only see these animals in movies and pictures. We can only depend on the archaeologists to dig out the fossils so that we can gather more information on them.

Encourage one another

From: Christine, Hao Ning, Pri 6, Tao Nan School

I feel touched that many people are helping the lower income families in times of crisis like during COVID-19. Many are also writing notes of encouragement to healthcare workers, cleaners, etc. to let them know that Singapore stands united with them. However, there are still many unacceptable acts that make me feel agitated. For example, Singaporeans shunning healthcare workers, chiding them for taking public transport and calling them “germ spreaders”. I think that these behaviours should be stopped immediately. Healthcare workers, cleaners etc, are our nation’s unsung heroes and they put their lives on the line to take care of strangers. We must stand united with one another and encourage each other in times of difficulties.

From: Jonathan, Pri 4, Chongzheng Primary

This Gracious Society is about being kind, courageous, friendly, helpful, caring, and putting yourself in other people’s shoes. By learning this, we will all become better people. These cute little seedlings are the few paths or ways to being in a gracious society. Heart Care is a caring seedling. Shoe Star will always be considerate and puts himself in other people’s shoes. Helpful Orange always helps people in need. Friendly Egg make friends with different races. Kind Ice Cream is very kind and Banana Man is very brave.

My special coin

From: Hui En, Methodist Girls’ School

I have created this coin to commemorate the inaugural event of skateboarding as a competitive sport in the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. I chose this topic because I personally love skateboarding. I would want to present this coin to Sky Brown as she is my role model. Even though she is only 12 years old, she is only girl who can do a 720 stunt and she will be participating in Tokyo 2020 Olympics. (For the tail of the coin, there is a doughnut-like thing that is supposed to be the Tokyo 2020 logo)

Yours faithfully,
Hui En 🙂

From: Eitan, Pri 4, Woodlands Primary

My special coin commemorates my birth — the day I was born. The head of the coin symbolises me as a baby, full of love and dreams. The birth of a baby is always filled with joy and anticipation. The tail shows my mother holding me for the first time. It also represents the undying love and care my mother has shown me from the moment I was born up until now. I feel that the bond between a mother and her child is priceless. This coin represents my hope of repaying my mother for all her love and care for me.

Turn down the volume!

From: Nicole, Pri 6, Changkat Primary

I could really relate to the article “Control the volume, says health experts” (February 2020) because once I had my earpiece on and my friends could hear the music I was playing. I did not really believe them and thought they were exaggerating. But, when I took off my earpiece, I could clearly hear the music from my earpieces. I knew then I had to stop turning the volume to the maximum volume. At first, it felt weird because I could barely hear the music. But, I soon got used to it. I now fully realise the importance of controlling the volume of the music.

Overcoming obstacles

From: Mohamed Faizal, Pri 6, Teck Ghee Primary,

The picture in the article “Falling in love with falls” (March 2020) caught my attention. After reading this article, I feel encouraged. Despite having severe hearing disabilities, Dane Jackson had won many kayaking events and is an

International Canoe Federation Freestyle World Champion. He put in his hard work and practised hard. I now look at Dane like an inspiration to make me work harder when I feel like I cannot do something. From this article, I have learnt that an obstacle is an obstacle only if I look at it as one. Dane did not look at his disability as a setback but instead felt that it gives him an edge over other kayakers. This article has thought me an important life lesson. I do hope others can learn from it too.

Friends Forever

From: Floyce, Pri 6 Pearl, Fuchun Primary

Have you ever thought if your new friends are people you can rely on? After searching online, I learnt that friends are defined as “people with whom one has a bond of mutual affection with”. Are you only friends with the people who are smart, cool or popular? Or are they truly best of friends whom you can trust to support you when you need it?

Someone you can count is your family. Personally, I have more than fifteen friends with whom I hang out with a lot. After thorough consideration, I realised I only have about eight friends I can trust to be there for me. Someone who will catch me if I fall. Someone who will be frank with me so I will be a better person. Someone who will be back to comfort you even after you have done something wrong, to allow you to have a shoulder to cry on.

Thank you to those who have seen me in my best and my worst, but not leaving me even when I am at my worst. Thank you so much for all your love and support towards me. Choose your friends wisely, they can make a great impact to your lives.

Walk away from toxic friendships

From: Eryana, Pri 6, Fuchun Primary

Whenever you are sad, hurt or depressed, you always have that friend who will hug you, right? But, what if that friend advised you to start smoking, drinking, taking drugs and other things that make you uncomfortable? Let me tell you this, that friend is actually not a friend at all. Not even a tiny bit. Having fake friends is even more dangerous than having five enemies.

A good friend will bring you up when you are down, will know when you are feeling blue, and will help you with your problems. People who advise you to do things you are uncomfortable with are not worth being friends with. I am telling you this because I have such an experience before.

A “friend” of mine kept “borrowing” money from me but never gave it back. One day the teachers found out and my “friend” avoided me ever since that day. I was embarrassed in front of the entire class and all I wanted to do was bury myself in the nearest pit I could find.

I want to warn people about this as they might encounter such an incident that will make them feel stressed or remorseful later. So, take my advice: choose your friends wisely, because you may never know if they will stab you in the heart later on.

Save all animals, cute or not

From: Beth, Pri 5, Tao Nan School

After reading the article “Earth’s health depends on more than cute animals” (March 2020), I have learnt a lot about many new animals. I never knew less attractive animals played such a huge part in keeping our ecosystems healthy! I feel that all these animals deserve to be recognised for their contribution to the world, even if they are not as cute as some animals. For example, most people don’t like the bee, just because a bee may sting people if they disturb it! The bee is just trying to protect itself!

The Gila monster does not deserve to be killed just because humans misunderstand it. Plus, if people mistake another animal for the Gila monster, the poor animal will probably get killed the moment it is seen! However, I wonder why the axolotl is critically endangered. Is it because people misunderstand it like the Gila monster? Most of these animals that are not as popular as cute animals are endangered. Now that we know more about these animals and have learnt about how they play a big part in the world, let’s try and save them from extinction!

Beth now knows that many animals, including the less attractive ones like this Gila monster, play a huge part in keeping Earth healthy. [Photo: David Mark / Pixabay]

Escape from North Korea

From: Guat Ghee, Pri 6, Kheng Cheng School EDITORS’ PICK

When I read “Escape from North Korea” (March 2020), I was intrigued. I have always thought of the world as perfect. But, reading this article has prompted me to do my own research. In the article, I learnt that people in North Korea are allowed to have jobs based only on their status and family background. If you come from a high-class family, the chances of getting your dream job is higher.

This idea would easily dash many of our childhood dreams, if we were living in North Korea. As a child, my parents have always asked me what I wanted to be when I grew up. My answers would always be, “Author!” or “Teacher!” and even “Veterinarian!”. But, I know now that even receiving the needed education may be close to impossible for me if I were living in North Korea. I dislike the thinking that the higher your family background is, the better you are. This way would make some people feel superior to others. Money does not define who you are and your character.

Thus, I can completely understand why people may want to escape from North Korea. However, I learnt that very few people managed to escape. While escaping, you risk being gunned down by soldiers, malnutrition, or dehydration. If you are caught, you most likely will be sent to concentration camps, where you eat dirt just to have energy to survive another day. Ms Kim and Mr Jeon are indeed lucky to have escaped.

Persevere like Dane Jackson

From: Sze Kai, Pri 6, Tao Nan School EDITORS’ PICK

After reading the article “Falling in love with falls” (March 2020), I feel very passionate about trying kayaking. When I was in Primary 2, I started learning sailing but stopped in Primary 4 to pursue other interests. Ever since then, I have always wanted to try out a new water sport, wind surfing, until I read this article. Kayaking seems like a very cool and interesting sport, yet intense. I find being able to kayak down a waterfall is really awesome. Wouldn’t it be really fun zipping down a waterfall on a kayak while having water splashed on your face?

I find it really amazing that Dane Jackson, at the age of 26, is already able to win 80 professional freestyle kayaking events. He must be really passionate about kayaking to arrive at his achievement. I agree that kayaking is a really extreme sport as one has to paddle against the strong currents as well as race against other competitors.

One area I think that we should all learn from Dane Jackson is his perseverance in learning how to kayak. He was born with a severe hearing problem so he is 70-percent deaf all his life. But, that did not stop him from learning how to kayak nor did it discourage him from learning to kayak. Instead, he learnt how to lip read so he will understand what someone is saying across the river in order that he could continue to have fun kayaking. When one is passionate about something, he or she should not give up easily and I think that Dane Jackson is one example we should all learn from.

Sze Kai is inspired that Dane Jackson overcame his hearing problem to excel in freestyle kayaking. [Photo: Corey Rich / Red Bull Content Pool]

OLDER LETTERS

Spreading love

From: Neveah Hor Yan Ting, Sec 1, Methodist Girls’

It was just a few days before Valentine’s Day. Many children find it disgusting because they think that Valentine’s Day is about lovey-dovey couples. However, children and teenagers are never too young to celebrate Valentine’s Day. Well, how did I make Valentine’s Day meaningful for myself?

Firstly, my school organised an annual activity called “Post-a-blessing”. It is when you can write postcards and post them to people to encourage or support them. This year, we were strongly encouraged to write a postcard to a frontline worker. We worked in groups and designed a postcard together. We wrote encouraging statements in there, expressing our gratitude towards the frontline workers. I hope they will feel blessed.

Secondly, on Valentine’s Day, also known as Friendship Day in our school, we bought each other small gifts to celebrate friendships made and pleasures shared. My best friend and I have been friends for about seven years and her present to me was a card which touched my heart very much.

Thirdly, we can also celebrate Valentine’s Day with our family members by spending time with them or even writing cards to them. I wrote a card to my mother and I could tell she was really touched.

Last but not least, during Valentine’s Day, I learnt to love myself. This message is also dedicated to those who have not been loving themselves — eat healthily, exercise regularly, take frequent breaks, and encourage yourself along the way!

Changed for the better

From: Marisa Wee, Sec 1, Zhonghua Secondary

I refer to the article “Visiting Japan after the horrors of the Occupation years” (January 2020).

Unlike the author, none of my close family has had first-hand experience of the Japanese occupation. Like the author, I used to be petrified of Japan for the war crimes it had committed years back. Through documentaries and social studies lessons, I learnt just some of the many methods the Japanese used to torture their prisoners of war. The author describes her fears of the Japanese based on the tales her family had told her about the war.

I personally cannot fully imagine how nerve-wrecking it must have been for the prisoners of war to be under the complete control of the Japanese. I feel that the war was an unnecessary thing to start since it scarred people’s lives and traumatised them. The Japanese’ malicious methods of torture are indeed inhumane.

Since then, Singapore has become an independent country that can fend for itself when the time comes. However, my opinion of Japan changed when my parents brought my siblings and me to Japan one year. During the trip, I saw with my own two eyes how much the country has changed from its war days.

As of today, Japan is praised for its cleanliness and environmental care. Additionally, the Japanese are well known for their ability to remain calm and collected in times of disasters such as earthquakes. Furthermore, the Japanese have a note-worthy amount of courtesy and politeness. I believe that Japan has come a long way since the war. There are definitely many changes that modern-day Japan has gone through, making Japan seem like a completely different country culture-wise.

This goes to show that anyone and everyone is capable of change as long as they do their best to improve. Japan managed to transform from a merciless country to one full of well-mannered civilians.

In my opinion, it is important to learn from past mistakes and strive to better ourselves. If Japan, home to roughly 120 million people, can change, why can’t individuals like us do it?

Water is precious

From: Varshana Viknesh, Pri 4, Woodlands Primary

“Water, water, everywhere, nor any drop to drink.” I was reminded of this famous line from the poem, The Rime of the Ancient Mariner, when I was reading the article “Turning on the tap in Madagascar” (September 2019). Madagascar is an island in East Africa and despite being surrounded by water, over half of its population lacks access to safe water. I was stunned to read about how people in the southern region of Madagascar had to walk up to 20 km just to find water! Thanks to the opening of a new water pipeline, they are relieved that they could now have clear water, rather than what they described as “chocolate-coloured water”.

This got me thinking about how we in Singapore are fortunate to have clean water running through our taps! It is easy to take water for granted. However, we should not think we will be immune to water shortages. Recently, Singapore experienced its first dry spell in more than five years. There was hardly any rainfall for a while. Thus, we should be thinking about how we can save water.

We should stop our taps from running all the way when we are washing dishes, cars or when brushing our teeth. We should take shorter showers. Did you know that there is a grading system that shows us the most water efficient appliances, like washing machines?

One should change to appliances which have the most ticks under the grading system. Remember, “A drop of water is worth more than a sack of gold to a thirsty man”. We should all do our part for water conservation in Singapore.

My views about parenting

From: Chloe Lim, Pri 6, CHIJ Our Lady of the Nativity

Some parents complained about schools using the book The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night Time in English lessons. They said that the book is a bad influence and touched on sensitive or controversial topics. While I understand parents’ concerns, I feel that parents should not shy away from exposing their children to sensitive or controversial topics. Students in their adolescent years are definitely going to be curious about sensitive topics. As long as there is a trusted adult guiding the students to think through these issues, the students would not develop the wrong thinking about those topics.

Besides books, parents should also take note of the social media platforms their children are on. These days, social media is a huge influence on the world. Based on Guardchild.com, 88% of teenage children have access to social media platforms and 22% use them more than ten times a day. These results are shocking to me as there are so many posts on those platforms that have sexual content or excessive use of vulgarities. Instead of learning about the sensitive topics the right way, which is with a trusted adult, the students would be learning about them on social media, unsupervised. This could cause them to be misguided. Thus, parents should also be mindful of what their children are exposed to on social media too.

Other than social media, movies are another way students can develop the wrong thinking about sensitive moral themes. If the book has caused such an uproar among parents, what about movies? Many movies like Avengers: Infinity War and Iron Man 3 use vulgarities, while others like Iron Man 1 or Game of Thrones have scenes that show sexual activity. While the movies are rated PG13, many young kids also watch them in cinemas. If parents are so concerned about what their children are exposed to, why are they bringing them to watch movies that specifically stated the age restrictions. Game of Thrones is rated M18, yet I know of a child my age (far below the age restrictions) who actually watched it with her parents!

In addition, parents should take note of the influence their children’s peers have on them. Some students are already exposed to many sensitive or controversial topics but may not have the correct interpretation of them. Sometimes, during conversations, those students would talk about difficult or controversial topics. Students who do not know about these topics may believe and accept their peers’ thinking. Some may even search up these topics on Google. Not all information on websites is correct and students may develop the wrong mentality about these topics.

Finally, I suggest that perhaps teachers could use the book The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night Time in Values Education class instead of English lessons to fully discuss the sensitive topics in the book. The book will evoke empathy and readers can empathise better with the main character.

In conclusion, parents should change their mindset about exposing their children to difficult and controversial topics. They should take note and monitor the other media channels that their children use. Parents should trust the schools to expose their children to sensitive and controversial topics the healthy and right way.

A lesson from past dynasties

From: Rodney Wong, Pri 6, Tao Nan School

Our country’s future is in our hands. We, as the future leaders, have to learn from the past. Not just from our past 54 years of nation building, but also from the Han Dynasty centuries ago — how it went from a flourishing dynasty to chaos in the end. We have to learn what they did wrong and avoid the same fate.

Singapore is doing well, but at 54 years of age, the Han Dynasty was doing well too. All Chinese dynasties ended the same way. From Qin to Tang to Han, they all ended because the descendants of the pioneers slacked off. The leaders no longer served the people; they served their own interests instead. A revolution then occurred, and the cycle started again.

My point is that, in order to sustain and develop the Singapore of the future, we need leaders from our generation who are willing to work for the people. We need people who care. Be one of them.

Riding e-scooters dangerously can kill

From: Kimura Mizuki, Pri 6, Nan Hua Primary

We all know that the electronic scooter is an innovation in a new era which brings convenience to commuters. It is environmentally friendly as it does not emit carbon dioxide, unlike cars, motorcycles, and buses. Yet, it can also cause grievances to people.

In the case where a 65-year-old died four days after an electric scooter crashed into her bicycle in Bedok North, an outpouring of grief and outrage was set off among her family members. The authorities revealed that the electric scooter that collided with her was non-compliant to the requirements and had exceeded the prescribed weight and width limits for use on public paths.

Should electronic scooters be banned totally due to the act of a careless rider? Given the rise of elderly Singaporeans who are also more reliant on personal mobility devices, it is a question left for us to ponder. However, one irresponsible act can easily kill a person. When more and more of these devices are being used irresponsibly and at reckless speeds, many more accidents will be inevitable.

We cannot afford another senseless loss of life. It is high time that awareness and education be raised at a national level, and irresponsible riders are severely punished.

I Love Coding!

From: Kaveri Priya Putti, Grade 12, Global Indian International School

“Dream, dream, dream! Dreams transform into thoughts and thoughts result in action.” These words by India’s former president Dr APJ Abdul Kalam have always inspired me to transform my dreams into reality. These words encouraged me to pursue my passion for coding and technology, opening a whole new world of opportunities.

Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong’s passion for coding is well known at home and overseas. In 2015, during his speech at the Founders Forum, Mr Lee revealed his passion for coding and that he had written a C++ code to solve a Sudoku puzzle as a university student. His vision of a Smart Nation is said to have been fueled from his deep understanding and interest in technology.

Coding skills open doors for students like me to fully understand and appreciate current and emerging technologies — equipping us with the knowledge and skills necessary in the future workforce. Being well versed in coding allows us to solve existing problems as well as issues we are yet to face. Personally, entering the world of coding and technology has exposed me to areas such as game development, 3D printing, and drone programming.

I even had the opportunity to participate in SheHacks Hackathon by GirlsInTech at Google Asia Pacific HQ where my team developed an app, “Labo”, that empowers homemakers to upskill themselves as they return to the workforce. The app is currently in development at the Android Studio and we are on track to extending it to the iOS platform in the future.

Technology is all around us and our view of technology should not only be a means to better productivity — it should hold the key to creating new values and breaking down boundaries of what is possible. Coding has opened a whole new world for me with endless opportunities.

Just as I am confident working with technology and am ready for the future of work, I believe everyone else can benefit from embarking on a coding journey. I hope my story can inspire my peers, be they male or female, to embrace technology and unlock its potential through coding to benefit society.

Don’t let insecurity ruin your day

From: Nikita Bhandari, Pri 6, Tanjong Katong Primary

Insecurity is one of the things that many humans have in common. We can be insecure about many things, such as our body shape, skin tone, and weight. The list can go on and on. But, what really is insecurity? Insecurity is uncertainty or anxiety about oneself and lack of confidence due to the anxiety over an issue.

My parents have a membership at a club. We go there every weekend for lunch. It is always kind of nerve-wracking for me. Everyone there dresses like royalty and talks in fancy accents. Whenever I walk through or look around, I feel like everybody’s eyes are on me. Watching my every step and waiting for me to mess something up. I feel insecure. Little things like going to the bathroom by myself and getting serviettes from a counter seem scary. I feel like I’m constantly being judged. It is like they are always looking down on me.

However, I found a few great ways to stop my worrying. I learned that I should not care about what other people think of me. I always reassure my mind and tell myself that I am doing the best I can and that should be enough. Don’t let your insecurities ruin something truly amazing!

I love air races!

From: Alan Wang Jinyi, Pri 4, Nanyang Primary

The 1903 Wright brothers’ invention will always have a place in my mental podium as one of the best and most innovative of creations. People had been jumping off church towers and cliff faces in failed attempts to fly for centuries before the brothers came up with the concept. And, I have always been fascinated by those squadrons of F-15SG Eagles and F-16E Fighting Falcons doing barrel rolls and Immelmann turns at supersonic speeds just above my house.

“The Formula 1 of the skies” (July 2019) is an amazing article! I would have missed the article if not for my friend, who knew I had a keen interest in these things. He asked me to identify the aircrafts on the pictures.

When I was younger, I liked the idea of having a race in the air and borrowed tons of books about the Red Bull Air Race from the library. So, this article just “revived” those times. The pictures helped make sense of everything, and the explanation on G Forces was quite useful too.

I would like to express my thanks to Mr Zachary John for his painstaking research. This article is not just an inspiration, but also a joy to read and something that rekindled my interest in the Red Bull Air Race.

Be careful with words

From: Lois Poh, Pri 6, Kheng Cheng School

I love the two What’s Up articles about words — “Some word hurt. Put them in the dustbin” (May 19) and “Just joking? But not all jokes are fun for all” (August 19).

When people are not careful with words, they can hurt others without realising it. I have to admit I do that sometimes, although I often try to be careful to use words that are polite and at the same time honest. Sometimes, people cannot accept criticism and often ignore harsh truths because they hurt.

Why can’t we use words in a nicer way? People play with words, often not in a good way, such as using vulgarities or making fun of people. And, they fail to realise that sometimes the harshest words are not vulgarities. It is the words that you use to make the other party feel hurt.

We can try to use words in a good way. What if we try to understand each other’s feelings and be kind? Instead of using harsh words to contradict others, why not say it in a nice way? Won’t there be more peace? Everyone has a part to play. Have you done your part?

Stand up for gender equality

From: Julianna Kathlyn Katigbak Del Rosario, Pri 6, CHIJ Our Lady Of Good Counsel

I refer to the article “Missing from the Women’s World Cup: the world’s best player”. When the title said that a woman was the world’s best player, I was attracted to that article immediately. Not many women are called the world’s best player. If I ask you who you think is a good soccer player, you would most likely answer “Lionel Messi” or maybe, “Cristiano Ronaldo”. Has anyone else noticed that no one ever mentions a woman? That is why I find Ada Hegerberg very inspiring. She believes that women soccer players should be treated the same way as men are, not just by having the same pay. She also has won numerous trophies and awards. Not just a pretty face now, right? She was vexed by the fact that the people running Norwegian football did not show enough respect to women’s football, so she quit when people were still not doing anything. She inspires girls all around the world to stand up for their rights and what they believe in. She is a stout-hearted, implacably determined and strong woman and we should all learn from the values she displays.

We need not walk alone

From: Norah Afifah Bte Shaifulbahi, Pri 6, Sembawang Primary

Some of our friends could be going through family problems, depression or lack of love and attention. If you see it happening to your friends, you should not ignore them or make them feel miserable and isolated. They are probably hurt or sad as they are going through a difficult time in their life.

As friends, we should try to understand what they are going through and put ourselves in their shoes. Try comforting them and assuring them that they are not alone. Assure them that there is always someone for them to talk to. We never know how that person is thinking or feeling when going through their problems.

For me personally, if I am upset or feeling depressed, I would talk it out with my friends or my family. I would feel much better after sharing it with them. Sometimes when you keep things to yourself, it just gets worse. So, I think when we are feeling down, we should not hide it. Instead, we should talk it out with our friends, families or even our teachers. Make sure it is with someone we are comfortable with. I believe that comforting each other can actually help us to overcome the difficulties and challenges that we face in life.

Ideas to reduce waste

From: Audrey Ooi, Pri 6 Care, Telok Kurau Primary

After reading the article “Packaging from online shopping creates a big headache” (May 2019), I was shocked that about one billion trees are chopped down just to make cardboard boxes for all the 165 billion packages in the US every year.

I have purchased items online before and I noticed that layers of bubble wrap usually encase the items, especially fragile ones. Even though the bubble wrap is used to protect the items from being damaged in transit, it is quite wasteful to use multiple layers of bubble wrap. As bubble wrap is made of plastic, it will never decompose. Therefore, we have to find alternatives to plastic packaging and cut down on the use of plastic when we can.

I am quite glad that companies are using reusable containers to deliver their products. That way, containers can be reused numerous times, saving money for the companies as they will not need to spend money on new packaging. When ordering takeaway at food centres or restaurants, my parents will usually refuse the disposable cutlery given to us. My parents would also advise me to not use a straw when drinking bottled drinks.

I would also prefer buying packet and canned drinks over bottled drinks in plastic bottles. The cans and packets can be recycled after washing. At our leadership camp last year, we washed and folded drink packets after lunch and took them for recycling. I hope that companies will take more measures to reduce the amount of waste produced by packaging. I have a few suggestions:

Companies could deliver items in metal boxes and bring the boxes back after the customer has taken his/her item.
Small cushions could be placed in boxes containing fragile items. The cushions are environmentally friendly and can be used as decorations by the customer. It would be even better if the company collects the cushions after the customer has taken his/her items.
Food companies could rent reusable lunch boxes to customers for a small fee. The customers will be encouraged to return the lunch box to get his/her money back.

In a nutshell, I hope that we can cut down on the use of packaging and disposable plastic so as to make the world a better place not just for us, but for future generations!

Even a single word can hurt.

From: Natasha Binte Sadimin, Pri 4, Telok Kurau Primary
I love the article “Some words hurt. Put them in the dustbin.” (May 2019). I think it is important to stop using hurtful words. I actually had an experience and would like to share it with you. When I was in Primary Two, I scored 60/80 in my Math exam. I jumped for joy as I was very happy with my results. But just then, my friend asked me how I did and I proudly told her my marks. She burst out laughing and called me stupid. She had scored full marks and was making fun of those who had scored less.

I was very hurt by her behaviour and the nasty word she had used to put me down. My teacher came to know about it and comforted me. She also scolded my friend for being so mean. I learnt how one word alone could be so hurtful. I think people should focus on encouraging each other instead of hurting others. I hope the article reminds all of us to be kind and not to use hurtful words carelessly.

Cheating is horrible

From: Jiang Zi Qi, Pri 6, Qihua Primary
Have you ever caught someone cheating? Some of us have. I feel that cheating is just horrible and I can never understand why someone would do that. After reading the article “Cheating for their children” (April 2019), I hate cheating even more.

In the article, the mastermind, William Singer, helped many wealthy parents cheat to get their children into top American universities. I feel that such actions are absolutely disgusting and very unfair. Many talented, genuinely smart, and hardworking students were deprived of the chance to go to these universities because of Mr Singer’s scheme. Most students work very hard to get into top universities. But, the rich parents just used their money to get their children there. Horrible!

The rich have many advantages in life. The poor have few opportunities. The poor need to work very hard to succeed, while the rich can use their money to get whatever they want. The rich should stop abusing their power. It is just sad how some rich people use money on things that can have a negative impact on others. They should instead use their money to help others in need instead of destroying their dreams. What Mr Singer and the parents did was very dishonest. I really hope that such things will not happen again and that our world will be filled with better and more honest people.

Bring sunshine, be a friend!

From: Lucius Chiu, Pri 6, Nanyang Primary
I am following the What’s Up series of articles on racial discrimination. I particularly liked the fact that What’s Up explained what racial discrimination is, why racial discrimination is so wrong, the reasons to fight it, and how to prevent racial discrimination. Another article I enjoyed reading is “Be a friend to people with autism” (March 2019), about how to be a friend to an autistic person.

These articles have given me and my little brother a ray of hope. We hope to see What’s Up publish more articles that will help raise awareness and understanding of other learning difficulties that some children have, for example dyslexia, Attention Deficit (Hyperactivity) Disorder (ADD, ADHD), and Sensory Processing Disorder. Doing so will help us understand the learning experiences of children with such learning difficulties. We will learn not to discriminate against them, or label them as lazy or stupid.

I hope students, teachers, and parents would try to practise empathy by putting themselves in the shoes of children with learning difficulties and be sensitive to their feelings. I hope people will stop stereotyping and discriminating against them. I hope more will choose to “be the friend that brings sunshine” into the life of children coping with learning difficulties.

From: Emeline Tan, Pri 6, CHIJ ST Nicholas Girls’

In the article “Be a friend to people with autism” (March 2019), a boy named Calder is diagnosed with autism. He rarely speaks but he has a best friend, Uncle Leong. Like Calder’s mum, I had thought friendship involves communication. After all, how else is one going to whisper into her friend’s ears to share secrets, gossip or even have a conversation.

However, I was proven wrong. Friendship does not need friends to talk to one another. Instead, it just requires simple acts to show that you care about the other person. A good example is Uncle Leong. There is not much communication between Calder and him, but a friendship formed between them. Simple acts from Uncle Leong, like giving Calder sweets or chocolates or spending time together, help to grow their bond.

Sad to say, some judge others because they are different. My sister who is dyslexic is often teased at school for her learning difficulties and for not learning Chinese. Her schoolmates shun her and will communicate in Mandarin whenever she is around. I am angered by such behaviour. Why does one have to be judged by what he or she cannot control — in my sister’s case, having dyslexia and in Calder’s case, autism?

Thankfully, more people are gradually becoming aware of such conditions and trying to befriend those who have them. I am sure if everyone sees that each person is unique and welcomes the differences, people like Calder and my sister will not be judged.

Tidying up can be fun

From: Ryan Kee Hong Kai, Pri 6, Nanyang Primary

The article “Making tidying up cool” (February 2019) provided me with an insight into the art of tidying up and decluttering. Marie Kondo’s method is different from other methods which I had implemented in the past. According to Ms Kondo, one would need to first decide whether the item sparks joy in your life before deciding what items to get rid of.

My mother had always requested for my sister and me to clean up our storeroom as it was filled with our old books and toys. After reading this article, I decided to implement this method to clean up the storeroom. When deciding what items to throw away, I applied Ms Kondo’s method. I found cleaning up, which used to be boring, very fun and enjoyable!

After seeing the effectiveness of this method, I decided to implement this method in my next cleaning project: to clean up my bedroom which is packed with stuff accumulated over the years. I personally think that every child should be exposed to this method and hopefully discover the joy of cleaning up and being tidy. Knowing and trying out this method has positively influenced my life.

They laughed at my friend’s dark skin

From: Phyoo Phyae Ko Ko, Pri 6, Qihua Primary

All of us are used to having friends of the same race as ourselves. I think we should have friends from other races as well. Many children in Singapore are judged by their ethnic differences. Some of us might have even made mean and unkind remarks about others. This has to stop! Every culture has its own unique identity and we should not make fun of cultural differences. Everyone is different and unique in their own way. Sadly, bullies may have “sick minds” in that they enjoy hurting other people. They find ways to be cruel to others. Casual racism is hurtful to others, whether it is meant to be a joke or not.

Once when I was waiting for my tuition class to start, a boy called my friend “black” because her skin tone was dark. Then, the boy and his friends started laughing as if it were a joke. I could tell from my friend’s face that she was hurt even though she did not admit it. Maybe it was just a joke to those boys, but I do not think my friend considered it funny. This kind of comment can cause a permanent scar on the person even if the comment was a “casual joke”. I hope that casual racism can be stopped soon. Let’s all do our part to make sure that casual racism does not happen to our friends or anyone else.

Do aliens exist?

From: Jin Yan De, Pri 6, Kheng Cheng School

Some people think aliens exist while some people read about stuff like that and just forget about it. Which of these two categories do you fall into? I think aliens exist. I think it is pretty cool but also pretty scary that aliens exist because that would mean we are not the only intelligent species out there!

There are many people who claim to have seen UFOs. Most claims are fake; but some are seemingly real, especially when a large group of people who are not related to each other claim to have seen the same UFO in the sky. It is pretty terrifying to think about it because that means a species of extraterrestrial had either just discovered us, or they were doing a reconnaissance trip to explore our world and send information back to wherever their commanding officer (if they even had one) was.

Maybe they are friendly. Well, it would be cool if they invite us to join an intergalactic alliance. The Curiosity rover (currently on Mars) did find traces of sustenance on Mars, so it is possible that there may have been single cellular creatures (or Martians!) that dwelled on the red planet. Do aliens exist? I believe that aliens exist but there is so far no solid proof.

Adults, please stop climate change!

From: Jayden Toh Cheng Han, Pri 6, Punggol Primary

I am inspired by the student activist in the article “Student activist speaks up on climate change” (February 2019). She dares to speak up for us children, for our future. I applaud her for that. I also agree very much with what she said.

Adults and politicians are often all talk and no action. How many times have politicians and scientists said that climate change is going to affect us greatly and we should all change our lifestyles? But, has there been any solid and conclusive work being done to implement these changes? Not that I know of yet. There may be initiatives that are going on, but I do not know of them. That means that the initiatives are not widespread enough.

We should take big action and huge steps to change our lifestyle if we want the human race to go on. Greta is our voice, the voice of us children, for a better and safe future.

We are asking for all of you adults to start taking action. We are too young to take action now. But, we urge those of you who can take action, to take action.

The climate is warming up like never before. We are living on a time bomb. Our future is at risk. Please, for future generations, make changes to our lifestyles. Whoever reads this, this is your future, everyone. Let’s all work together to stop climate change in its tracks. Go home, and tell your parents about this. We need to do something for our future.

You are more than your grades

From: Jayden Lee Wen Yan, Pri 6, Kheng Cheng Primary

I will take my first “major” exam at the end of this year. I believe that if I practise diligence, one of my school’s values, my efforts will pay off in the PSLE. My parents always encourage me to persevere when I am faced with challenges. They also remind me that the PSLE is not the only milestone in life and that there will be many more opportunities for me to discover my strengths.

Recently, I read about people who had failed their PSLE, but their indomitable spirit helped them to achieve their dreams after that. One student who ended up in Normal stream worked hard to excel in his studies and eventually became a dentist. This shows that failure does not mean the end of the world. If we adopt a right mindset, failure can be a stepping stone to success.

Grades alone do not define who I am as a person. My parents often tell me it is not the grades we score, the brands we wear or the things we own that matter most in life. Instead, family relationships and friendships mean

more to me.

I feel that we should also do our part to help those who are in need. During Chinese New Year, I accompanied my parents to deliver home-cooked food to a lonely elderly lady who has family problems. In my broken Mandarin, I managed to make her laugh. While I felt sympathetic towards her plight, I also realised how blessed I am with my supportive family.

When I am feeling down or when I am inundated with school work, I would tell myself not to give up. I hope that my faith in God and the love shown by my family will keep me grounded, and help me to finish well at the end of my life’s journey.

Always there for me

From: Shine Xu Jiajing, Pri 6, West Grove Primary

Wherever I go, a listening ear will be by my side. This listening

ear belongs to my mother. She always listens to my problems, and gives me suggestions on how I can turn things around. Whenever I talk to her, my heart fills up with warmth, and the fear of being left behind or laughed at will disappear. Many times, when I needed a shoulder to cry on, she was always the heroine who saved my day.

Once, when I was in kindergarten, we had to switch desks for group work and I ended up sitting at a friend’s desk. She had left her nice stuff on her desk. When we went back to our own seats, this friend could not find her keychain. She thought that I had taken the keychain, although I had not.

But, back home, I discovered that the keychain had accidentally hooked onto my file.

I was in a dilemma whether to return the keychain, as I was worried that my friend would then think that I had actually taken it all along. I broke

down in tears while telling my mother about my dilemma. My mother advised me to return it. She said, “If you did not do anything wrong, you should not be scared of being accused. Even if you are accused, you would be speaking the truth.” What she said gave me confidence. I was not guilty of stealing, so why should I be afraid, right?

So, the next day, I returned the keychain to my friend and explained everything to her. My friend was happy I told her the truth.

When I was in Primary One and did not know how to deal with the problems I faced in school, I would call my mother to ask her for help using the school phone. I was more of an introvert, and I did not have many friends. Her encouragement made me stronger day by day, and allowed me to be better prepared to face difficulties. Right now, I have many friends, and it is all because of my mother’s good advice. My mother is truly a listening ear to me.

Overcoming my fears

From: Varsaah Thevaranjan, Pri 6, Woodlands Primary

Have you ever faced a fear? I have. Facing your fears is hard. I have many fears that will take time for me to face. Some of them are quite ridiculous. But I have conquered one of my biggest fears — the fear of the dark. This is a common fear to have and overcoming it is hard. I feared the dark because I felt I could never know what was lurking nearby and anything could happen in the dark.

I overcame my fear at my grandmother’s house in Sri Lanka. Unlike Singapore, blackouts there were quite frequent, especially during heavy downpours. One stormy night when I stayed in her house, the lights suddenly went off and could not be switched back on. I frantically looked for a flashlight but there was none. It was extremely dark.

Then my grandmother came to my rescue by bringing a small lamp with a glowing fire We had to sit very close to the lamp as it did not give off a lot of light. I slowly got used to the darkness and went to sleep in the dark. This is how I faced my fear and overcame it.

Facing your fear is tough. But when you do, it is worth it.

Don’t spread fake news

From: Daryan Lim, Pri 6, Nan Hua Primary

Some people are using popular handphone messaging applications to create havoc by spreading rumours . The effects of fake news could be as serious as causing death!

I was very enraged by the example in the article “Fake rumours causing havoc” (August 2018) where a family who got lost while travelling needed directions. A lady in the car saw some children playing nearby, so she gave them some sweets. Due to fake rumours that had been circulating, the locals believed that the lady was trying to abduct the children. Instead of helping the lost travelers, they beat the lady to death! This example made my blood boil as that lady was innocent. She was just being kind, but in the end, she lost her life.

We should do our part to prevent the spread of fake rumours. We should not be gullible, always believing what we read in the messages we receive. Being aware of what is true or untrue is important. We should always verify the facts first. One small mistake can have a big impact.

“The road to hell is paved with good intentions”. This saying means that if we are not careful, we can cause harm even when we mean well. We should always think twice before forwarding any messages. We should also not suspect anyone before we even have any proof.

Everyone loses in a war

From: Jayden Lee Wen Yan, Pri 5, Kheng Cheng Primary

I recently read a book entitled Stories of the First World War by Jim Eldridge. This book features stories about the First World War, told through the experiences of twelve young people. The individuals featured in the stories were heroic young men and women, as they displayed values like courage, perseverance and, most importantly, a never-give-up spirit.

In one of the stories, a boy named Edwin Parsons signed up for the army when he was merely fourteen years old. At such a tender age, he was ready to fight for his country. Another boy, Jack Cornwell, stood firm to man a gun in the Allied ship, despite having a shrapnel lodged in his chest after an explosion.

Though inspiring, these heart-wrenching stories made me realise that war is unnecessary and tears families apart. Mothers lost their sons, wives lost their husbands and daughters, their fathers. In the aftermath of the war, those who survived had to deal with not just physical wounds, but mental and emotional scars as well. In fact, war is never really won by any party, as both sides will suffer millions of casualties.

I hope that there would not be a World War Three and nations can resolve their disputes through dialogue and peaceful means.

Kerala floods

From: Geetika Biju Nair, Pri 5, Sembawang Primary

With reference to the article “Kerala floods spark wave of kindness” (September 2018), indeed when the monsoon rains arrive every year, people usually play in the rain and enjoy themselves. My friends and I used to eagerly look forward to the monsoon rains arriving when I was in India. However, this year, instead of having fun in rain, everyone prayed for the rain to stop.

There are many dams in Kerala. (Dams act as gates at the mouth of reservoirs or lakes.) Like a container, a lake can hold only up to a specific capacity. If the amount of rain water collected exceeds the original capacity of the lake, it becomes too full and its dam can burst open, causing a disaster. Heavy rains this year caused the lakes to become full and to be on the verge of overflowing. To prevent that, the government released water through the dams’ gates in a slow rate. But, even then, many areas were flooded.

Many people died because they were washed away in the flood. Hundreds of domestic animals also perished. Many houses were demolished, leaving many people homeless. Many poor people were unwilling to leave their houses for fear of losing everything. This caused more fatalities. During the flood, waste items thrown in rivers were washed back to land.

Some people were rescued by helicopters and boats. Without waiting for any instructions from anyone, fishermen rushed to the flooded places in their small boats and rescued many people. Some of my relatives were affected by these floods but fortunately, their lives were spared. Relief camps were set up all over Kerala.

I am delighted to say that many people from Singapore, including myself, donated money, clothes, blankets, and other basic necessities to the needy. Keralites are standing united to bring back all that has been lost. The flood caused a lot of calamity and left a huge impact on many peoples’ lives.

Let’s take good care of our pets

From: Inge How Yun Hseun, Pri 6, Nan Hua Primary

Reading the article on “Humans and other animals” (July 2018) helps me understand how animals have been an integral part of our lives. I am an animal lover myself. I love all animals, especially cats.

I recently read another interesting article that elaborated on a study being carried out on two families with newborn babies. One family kept pets while the other did not. Eventually, the researchers concluded that the newborn baby in the family that kept pets was healthier than the other one and may have a lower risk of suffering from heart disease, diabetes, cancer, and other chronic diseases in the future.

Pets also have feelings, like humans. They need our love and attention. They can cheer us up when we are feeling down in the dumps and help us to relieve stress when we play with them. However, I am very saddened by acts of cruelty to animals, such as abandonment and animal abuse.

Once, the SPCA came to our school to give a talk. They shared with us many horrible stories of animal abuse and showed us many pictures, which left a deep impression on me. I really hope that as much as owners love buying pets from pet shops, they will care for them until the end of their pets’ lives.

Thank you, superhero parents!

From: Koh Xin Qin Megann, Pri 6, Maha Bodhi School

After reading the article “Superhero parents” (August 2018), I indeed agree that parents are our superheroes. Forget Superman and Captain America. Our parents are much more heroic than them, don’t you agree? Our parents have been taking care of us since we were young, putting up with the tears and tantrums when we were babies, supporting us, and paying for our classes. And, they have to do the chores, prepare dinner, and buy groceries!

Some of you may disagree because your parents make you do the household chores and always nag at you to complete your homework. But, our parents make us help with the chores so that we will become more independent. They nag at us because they want us to do our best in our studies so that we will have stable jobs in the future. We may find our parents irritating when they interrupt us in the middle of a call, or when we are at the most exciting part of a game. We may talk back to our parents and slam doors. During such times, they have to put up with our temper. Imagine yourself in their shoes. Wouldn’t you be angry if your child were rude to you? It takes a lot of stamina and love to keep calm and carry on.

Our parents put in much effort to take care of us and spend time with us. We can do a lot more to show our appreciation, not only during Mother’s Day and Father’s Day. We can manage our time better so that they do not have to worry about our studies after a hard day’s work. We can also take initiative to help with the chores. Lastly, we can stop bickering with our siblings and giving them a headache. We are old enough to settle our own problems, and it is not necessary to complain to our parents about every single thing our siblings do.

i salute dr nadira!

From: Jayden Toh, Pri 5, Punggol Primary

After reading the article, “Doctor on the move”, (July 2018), my initial thought was, “Wow! Doctor Nadira would sacrifice a part of her life to help others as a humanitarian? She is really inspiring!” I was amazed and inspired by her compassion and willingness to volunteer in poor countries. Although she could have opened a clinic of her own after she received her medical degree, she chose to do humanitarian work instead. This type of sacrifice is definitely very noble. Her sincerity is very touching.

She is just like Brigid Fitzgerald described in Woman of God, written by James Patterson and Maxine Paetro. Brigid joined Kind Hands, which does work similar to Doctors without Borders, and traveled to South Sudan. In the early part of the book, Brigid confronts primitive living quarters, tries to help orphaned and maimed children, and practices “meatball surgery” in unsterile, chaotic conditions. The descriptions of the almost unbelievable conditions under which the medics worked were cringe-inducing, especially the ugly violence inflicted on combatants, refugees, and courageous charity workers.

I hope more will be done to help these courageous humanitarians. We can help too! It can be as simple as donating money to charitable organisations, or donating much-needed essentials.

race and gender equality

From: Janessa Low Qian Yi, Pri 6, Nan Hua Primary

After reading the article on “Star Wars actress faces racial insults” (July 2018), I am flabbergasted by how differently actors of colour are treated from white actors. I feel very disappointed at how the world sees us. We are all one human race, so why should the colour of our skin matter? It is just an appearance. The colour of our skin does not represent or define the kind of personality or character traits we have. In any business, the employees should be chosen based on their skills and not their race. No race should be more superior or preferred than the other.

I also think that our gender should not matter. Women are perfectly capable of completing the same tasks as men. Women should be treated equally as men, not better or worse. No one should have to delete their social media account because of their race, religion, or gender. Women have stayed in the shadows of life for far too long. Now that we have finally stepped out of the shadows and are showing the world our true potential, we are receiving a lot of backlash. Constructive feedback is necessary for any form of improvement but criticism of our race or gender is stepping over the line.

Let us all play a part in ending gender and race discrimination and fight together for equality among humans!

Casual racism stops with me!

From: Derek Tu Deyi, Pri 6, Nan Hua Primary

We are used to having friends who are of the same race as ourselves, as children from other races generally have different traditions and activities. Some of us might also have stereotyped people from other races and made unkind comments. I feel that this kind of casual racism should stop. Casual racism can be hurtful to other people, even if it is meant as a joke.

Once, I was on the bus with two friends of different races. When one of the friends made a racist remark, it resulted in an angry retort from the other friend. Before long, they started arguing. All I could do was to get them not to raise their voices at each other in the bus. This is an example of how casual racism can cause trouble in the neighborhood. If everyone argues about race, wouldn’t it be hard to ask for help from neighbours of other races next time?

I think that people living in Singapore have to understand that casual racism is rude and not acceptable. We should treat others equally as we are all people, and people from other races are not as different as we think. I hope that casual racism can be stopped.

Freeing China from poverty

From: Josephine Sze, Pri 6, Xinmin Primary

Although much has been done to help the poor in China, I feel that stamping out poverty there by 2020 is not possible. China has a huge population, and most of the population is living in poverty.

Bigger issues like corruption can be stopped. But, in a country as large and populous as China, to help the poor is not always as easy as people might think. They are individuals who have to support themselves and usually a family, too. There are many things to consider. Large companies could employ more people. But, manual labour is no easy task and factory workers are usually only given a meagre salary for all their hard work.

People could donate. But, the donations given are not enough to help every impoverished person. And, they might not even reach people living in rural areas because some items are difficult to transport.

Fighting to end poverty is a noble cause and it does not hurt to try, but such changes may take more than two years. Of course, it is always a good idea to help out whenever you can since even small contributions can still make a big difference.

Ending poverty in China

From: Ng Zu Li, Pri 5, Punggol Primary

In “It’s a long road: Freeing China from poverty”(January 2018), I read of the public officers taking advantage of poor villagers to pocket money meant to help people. If I were one of those officers, I would definitely feel very guilty for preventing help from reaching the people who are in need. There might not be as many people suffering if not for some officers’ greed.

For Mr Xi Jinping, the President of China, it is not easy to implement a major change like ending poverty. However, while there might be a lot of bad hats hampering Mr Xi’s 2020 goal, there is still some hope. For example, the Chinese guitar factory in the mountains of one of the poorest regions in Southwest China is employing hundreds of poor people. This is just one such example of the many good things happening. Therefore, while many bad things are happening, many good things are happening at the same time, which gives me hope!

Helping someone fit in

From: Chin Yi Rou Natalie Pri 6, Nan Hua Primary

I know a friend who is like Auggie from Wonder. She is a new kid at our tuition centre, and she is from Malaysia. She is still trying to fit in, and always shares her thoughts with the class, but the class finds her annoying and no one likes her.

Whenever someone insults her, she just smiles at them but I know she is very hurt by these insults. I try to ask my friends to stop but they do not listen. I will try to ask her to join our group discussions or ask her to join us for lunch. Then, hopefully, my friends will accept her, and not leave her out. If I hang out with her and I am called “weird”, I will ignore these comments or go up to them and tell them that they have no right to bully her, since they themselves were, at some point, the “new kids” who tried to fit in.

Facing my fears

From: Alifah Ilyana Bte Mohammad Jawahir, Pri 5, Sembawang Primary

I have heard many people talking about how proud they were when they finally conquered their fears. I used to feel like I would never be able to conquer my fear of heights. But, I did. It was during the Primary Four Adventure Camp, when I had to go through obstacles that were too high for my comfort. I also felt my friends did not understand my fear of heights. I was glad, however, when one of my friends, Angel, agreed to accompany me up there as she was afraid too. I felt like I was going to fall to my death the moment I stepped onto the first obstacle. Even so, I knew I had to complete the obstacle course or I could be stuck there forever. On top of that, there was also a zipline at the end of the course, which was three storeys high!

My classmate, Sunitha, told me that I had to face my biggest fear and not give up. I knew she was right, but I really felt like I was going to die. I just sat right at the edge, not wanting to move an inch. I was about to sob when I heard cheers from my classmates down below. My friends behind me also cheered for me. I knew then that I could not just give up and not complete that zipline. I did not want to let my friends and classmates down. I finally gathered up all my courage and jumped as they cheered. I was proud that I had conquered my fear!

Although I am still a little afraid of heights, I know that at least I had faced and conquered my fear.

Crossing the fence

From: Jeoshua Wang Wen Shan, Pri 6, Nanyang Primary

When I was 7 years old, I thought boys would be with boys and girls would be with girls. To me, it felt like we should not cross over the huge fence that separated the boys from the girls. Whoever crossed the huge fence would probably get teased for days, weeks, or even months. To sum it up, it was just a common human trait found among us – that of being biased.

When I finally turned 9 years old, my decision to seek out an unexpected source of help changed the way I looked at people. One day, when I was in Primary 3, I desperately needed help from my friends to further understand how the assumption method in Math worked. But, nobody was willing to help. I had no choice but to ask the girl sitting beside me, Sarah, for help. I did not want to, but I was glad I did. Little did I expect that she would be so caring and gentle. With her help, I finally understood the assumption method. From that day onwards, whenever I needed help on any math questions, or anything, I would ask Sarah. She would always be there to help me.

Eventually, our friendship started to blossom. However, I also hated it. I would always get teased that I had a crush on her. Sarah’s friends would also tease her. I started thinking whether I had made a huge mistake by being her friend, but it turned out that I had not. Whenever I needed help, I would still ask her, and vice versa. We would always be there for each other, and we did become close friends. We would look forward to seeing each other every morning, and the teasing slowly stopped too.

The school year came to an end, and the old me was gone for good. I stopped being biased, and tried to make sure I treated girls and boys the same. Unfortunately, Sarah and I were not placed in the same class for Primary 4, and we slowly drifted away from each other. I felt quite sad, but this important friend of mine had taught me a life lesson. I started to pluck up the courage to make friends with anybody, regardless of gender. I still get teased for it. But for me, it does not matter anymore. Boys may be playful, but not all boys are. Girls may be thought to be quiet, but not all girls are. I do hope that the fence between the two genders will be torn down one day.

Toys for all ages

From: Charlotte Lim, Pri 6, CHIJ Our Lady of Good Counsel

I think that it is fun to collect toys. One could gather a few friends who have the same interests and play with the toys together, and even exchange them among themselves. Besides have some fun together, it also strengthens friendships. Playing together with friends and toys gives us happy memories of our times together when we reminisce about our childhood.

I also have a collection of figurines of characters from books and movies. When I am not busy studying for PSLE, I spend time with my sister and play with the figurines. Although studying is important, I agree with the saying “All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy”. One should study hard and play hard.

After burying yourself in piles of assessment books for hours, why not take a break and unearth your toys to play with, instead of staring at your screens, small or big? Whatever your age, it is wonderful to have some fun with your toys and interact with your friends.

My responsibilities

From: Jonelle Tan Wen Qi, Pri 6, Nan Hua Primary

Do you have a responsibility? Have you ever thought of doing it well? As a prefect and model pupil in school, I have to ensure that I set a good example to those around me. Every morning, I will check on the primary one students as part of my duty as a prefect. I have to make sure they go straight to assembly after placing their bags in their respective classrooms. When I spot any child who needs help, I assist him or her.

To many, this is a waste of time and effort. However, I feel it is an honour to be able to contribute to the school. I can also make new friends from other classes. We rarely met each other previously and now, we are close friends. In addition, I am able to learn new skills. For instance, I have learnt what to do to comfort others when they are upset.

Last but not least, I am given the opportunity to communicate with school staff, especially the elderly cleaners. Most students just walk past them as if they were invisible, but I think that we should spare a thought for them. After all, aren’t they the ones who keep our school clean? Isn’t it true that they deserve our respect, too? As such, why are we neglecting them? Through my responsibilities, I can show my appreciation to them by having conversations with them. Indeed, this responsibility is a blessing in disguise!

Fitting in

From: Jonelle Tan Wen Qi, Pri 6, Nan Hua Primary

When I first stepped into Primary Three, I was told that I had to take a test close to the end of the year, also known as the GEP selection test. Then I had no idea what it was and had no confidence in passing the selection tests. Unexpectedly, I was chosen as a GEP student at the end of the year. I was sent to a different class the next year and felt different from everyone else. It was not long before I realised my previous classmates avoided me like the plague, even those whom I considered “best friends”. I pondered long and hard. Was it wrong to be different from others? Does it matter if I stood out of the group?

To make things worse, getting into GEP meant that I had to learn and take exams with a different syllabus. Thankfully, I had group members who made me feel accepted. We often engaged in group discussions to help one another with our weakest subjects. While my friends helped me with English, I also chipped in to help in Mathematics.

My teachers often made lessons fun and interesting, encouraging us to participate more actively. This was the exact opposite of just rattling on about textbook knowledge. Now, here I am, confident about what awaits me ahead. No matter what, I know that there are many behind me, supporting me throughout all my challenges and difficulties. There are great teachers with generous hearts, and friends who will accompany me through thick and thin. With these in mind, why would I possibly give up?

From: Krithika d/o Elamaran, Pri 6, Yew Tee Primary

I can relate to Cassie in the story “Roll of thunder hear my cry” (June 2017). Like Cassie, I have also gone through many difficult experiences. Over the years I have received many comments from many Chinese boys and some girls like: “You are black! You are so dark! You will never fit in with us Chinese!” It is very hurting and makes me feel I am very different. But, I do not care about these hurtful comments. I think that black is just a colour.

I feel very proud to be an Indian. I know that God created black people for a reason. He knows that we can change the world somehow. I know that I am unique and different. I like being different. To me, I think everybody in this world is equal. We are all human, we have the six senses, and we know how to understand feelings.

However, not everybody is hurtful. I have many friends who support me and give words of advice. They are also going through the same problem that I am. We support each other and tell ourselves that we are different and amazing. Sometimes when I travel overseas, my family and I get praises for our culture, food, and the traditional costumes that we wear. When I hear those comments, I feel very happy and appreciated because at least there are some people out there who appreciate us.

We grow up thinking that we are going to be accepted, and that we are going to have great friends, and suddenly there is this glitch in the system. During my primary school years, some girls would avoid me and some teachers would give a little more attention to my other classmates. I feel cheated seeing all this because we think that we are going to have a great time in our lives but it just does not happen. In the world, we have to be united. To me, everybody is equal.

The 3Rs in fashion

From: Heidi Tan, Pri 5, Tao Nan School

I just found out that millions of kilograms of clothing are thrown away every year, from the article “Fashion for planet earth” (June 2017). Why is this so? Because we humans, especially females, always have the urge to buy new clothes to stay trendy. What happens to the old clothes then? Chances are, the owners may not want them anymore and they get thrown away. But, do we know that by doing this, we are causing much damage to the Earth? In schools, teachers teach us to “Reuse, Reduce and Recycle”. But in real life, do we really practice what we have been taught? I really doubt so. We have heard so much about it and yet, we do so little about it.

After reading this article, I tried to think of how we can apply “Reuse, Reduce and Recycle” in this case. First, reuse. We can always give away our old clothes to our friends or families who have younger children, if the clothes are still in good condition. We can also donate clothes to charities such as the Red Cross or orphanages. Next is reduce. We can reduce the pieces of clothes in our wardrobe instead of buying new clothes. How? Well, spend some time to check through our own closet once every few months and we may find some treasures! We should start wearing those clothes that have been forgotten, before we outgrow them. This will definitely reduce the need to purchase new clothes.

We can also recycle old clothes and reduce the amount of disposed clothes. By altering old clothes to create another “new” piece of clothing, we are not only customizing our own unique pieces but, at the same time, recycling them. We can also use these old clothes as cleaning cloths, or even cut them into strips to create a makeshift mop! We are damaging our Earth minute by minute unknowingly with our careless acts. Reusing, reducing, and recycling are steps we can take to save the Earth. We should try our best to influence our friends and families to do the same too.

Stand against radicalization

From: Maureen Kai, Pri 6, CHIJ Our Lady of Good Counsel

With regards to the case of two auxiliary cops arrested for terror-linked offences, I feel that it is of utmost importance that we Singaporeans stay united in times of crisis. Like what the Minister for the Environment and Water Resources had said, these two police officers were entrusted to protect us Singaporeans, and instead of doing their duty, they chose to endanger us. We, as citizens, should do our rightful part in protecting our country in times of need and stand against any form of radicalization. Moreover, we must stay strong and not allow these terrorist groups to achieve their goal of terrorizing and disrupting our society. If we know of anyone who may be engaging in any form of self-radicalization, we must come forward and report them, regardless of our relationship with that person. By alerting the authorities in time, we are saving them from harming themselves, as well as the lives of many. I feel that the government should seek to actively educate its staff on the risks of self-radicalization and train its officers to spot the tell-tale signs and behavioral changes in persons who are at risk. And of course, we should not detract from the good work that Muslim officers have done. We should continue to have confidence in our police officers.

Ashima – My idol!

From: Christen Chee Shi En, Pri 6, Pei Hwa Presbyterian Primary

After reading this article (Mar 2017), I am inspired to be like Ashima. I climb too, and I find that we have so much in common: we have both had injuries from climbing, we look alike (my friends nicknamed me “Ashima”), and we both love climbing. One even more surprising thing is that my mother’s cousin actually climbs in the same gym as Ashima in New York! I feel like we are “connected” in some ways.

Ashima and I are also alike in that we are both petite in size and shorter than our peers. However, Ashima is never afraid to take the leap of faith and jump off a tile to grab another tile that is out of her reach. I have watched videos of her and I have seen her leap around on the wall just like a monkey. Sometimes, however, I am not willing to push off and let go. Sometimes, I just lack the courage. For this reason, I really want to be like Ashima and be brave.

I really admire Ashima’s perseverance and spirit of never giving up. I know the challenges one could face when climbing, and watching Ashima climb gives me the courage to be brave when I try a route. She is my “idol” in a way, and she is my role model, too. I want to be as strong and as determined as her.

Other than in climbing, these practices of determination, and courage help me in my daily life too. When I am doing my homework, it takes determination to finish it when I am exhausted from many hours of training. Whenever I am afraid to try something new, courage has to kick in. Thus, I want to continue to challenge myself to climb stronger and better, and to climb through obstacles that I face in life.

Pollution-eating robot

From: Lim Jit, Pri 5, Holy Innocent’s Primary

With reference to “My robot eats pollution” (April 2017), firstly, I think it is very interesting how Jonathan Rossiter used the different animal’s traits as innovative ideas for his robot. As his robot generates its own source of energy, it is very environmentally friendly.

Furthermore, it does so by eating algae, which can cause marine creatures to not have enough oxygen and die. However, his robot floats on water, making it visible. I would not like to see the sea filled with such robots moving around. It would be great if he could make the robot move around underwater, but still eating the algae which floats on the water surface.

Next, he also thought of making his robot out of biodegradable materials, which will decompose in the sea after it dies. This would reduce the cost of production, as he would not have to fit a GPS system into the robot. He would also be providing a bit of minerals and organic materials for the marine animals.

Lastly, I have a concern about this robot. As corals have a symbiotic relationship with algae, which is how the coral gets its colour, would this “row-bot” increase coral bleaching? Still, this robot seems promising to me, and I believe this robot would make a huge positive change to the water pollution problem.

Amazing rickshaw puller

From: Tan Hui Jia Jessica, Pri 4, Methodist Girls’

Dear Mr Koh Teong Koo,

I have read your story (February 2017). I feel very proud that Singapore has someone like you. I have heard that back in your time it was very hard to survive during the war. I am personally amazed by your courage and how you risked your life to save a boy that was your friend’s son.

I think if I were you, I probably would not save my friend’s son, as I would not want to risk getting killed. It should have been very hard to hide someone from the Japanese.

I had always thought that being a rickshaw puller was an easy job. But, after I read about you, I knew that it was not an easy job. I heard that most rickshaw pullers did not have shoes and had to run bare-foot on the sun-baked ground. I hope that you had shoes on at your time. I hope that more people will be like you. And, I hope to be like you too so that Singapore can continue to progress.

I salute Saroo!

From: Erica Chin, Pri 6, Nanyang Primary

With reference to “A heartwarming family reunion” (March 2017), the greatest impact on me is the way Saroo never gave up, even after 25 years. He never gave up looking for his family, even though he had no clue at all about their whereabouts. Saroo has inspired me to not throw in the towel when I face an obstacle.

Although I have never experienced being separated from my family for 25 years, I do remember getting lost in the mall. I was so scared and worried that I would never see my family again. Fortunately, they found me. But, to lose them for 25 years… I cannot imagine the sadness he must have felt even after being adopted. However, I admire Saroo’s determination to find his family. The joy that Saroo must have felt when he was reunited with his family must have been overwhelming.

After reading about Saroo and his family, I have resolved to never give up when facing a challenge. I have also learned to cherish my family as we never know what’s going to happen tomorrow. We should never take anything for granted, not even our own family. I hope that, like me, many others can learn a lesson from this determined man.

Battle of Aleppo

From: Bong Jia Wen, Pri 4, Qihua Primary

I feel embarrassed about one thing that I have been doing for a long time. I have been picky about food. I would only eat the food that I like, discarding those that I take no fancy to. But after reading “Battle of Aleppo” (February 2017), I decide to kick this bad habit.

The Syrians who were involved in the battle of Aleppo did not have clean water to drink, proper meals and stable houses to live in. Death might happen to them any time.We could never fully understand the fear and pain. For example, as stated in the article,two girls were hit by a mortar and died on the way home from school.

I could not imagine how heartbroken my parents would be if this happened to me. In Singapore, there is clean water and food. The possibility of us being hit by a mortar is almost zero. Upon reading this article, I learnt that we should all appreciate what we have. The peace and stability have not come easily. We should not take it for granted.

Helping one another

From: Tan Wei Xiong Bryan, Pri 6, Ngee Ann Primary

With reference to “Days of Despair” (February 2017), World War Two was indeed a human tragedy. My grandparents are survivors, and this is their story:

If you wore spectacles or had smooth hands, you were considered “dangerous”. These people were taken to the labour camps. At the camp, my great-grandfather pretended to faint. So, the guard threw him out as he was considered useless. He sneaked off to his Malay friends’ house, borrowed their clothes and escaped as the Japanese considered the Malays “friends”. It was very heartwarming to know that everyone was willing to help each other through those tough times. My grandmother and her friends would hide in a sandbag shelter to play during the war. Kids are kids, and my grandmother, like me, always found time to have fun.

The Japanese would go from house to house, to take away male family members to the quarantine. The quarantine was a “big well” where the prisoners stood around. The Japanese would shoot them, and into the well they went, alive or not. This was a slow and painful death. The Japanese today are so polite, it is so hard to believe that they could be so cruel so many years ago.

My great-great-grandfather

From: Emilia Francis Klein, Pri 4, Methodist Girls (Primary)

The 8^th to the 15^th of February 1942 changed not only Singapore’s history, but my life too! My great-great-grandfather, Tang Choon Poh, was a rubber merchant and co-owned the Great World Amusement Park. He helped to protect Singapore by supporting the Chinese Resistance.

Unfortunately, he was denounced by one of his ex-workers, who pointed out his house to the Japanese. He was captured, taken away and never seen again. His wife, five sons, four daughters and one adopted daughter survived the war. His eldest son, Tang Ee Sin, was my great-grandfather. He married Wee Yan Cheng who studied in Methodist Girls’ School. If it was not for her, I would not be in this school.

I think the biggest tragedy of the fall of Singapore was when all the men aged 18 to 35 as well as those who resisted, like my great-great-grandfather, were targeted and executed. If my great-grandfather had been executed as well, I would not be alive today.

My special messages to all the people out there: (1) War is a mindless waste of life. (2) Never betray a friend because once a friend always a friend.

President Donald Trump

From: Nathania Lim, Pri 6, Tao Nan School

Honestly, I am not the biggest supporter of Trump. Like most people, I was surprised and shocked when Trump was elected as the President of the United States. However, as I try to keep an open mind, I decided to google other people’s reasons for choosing Trump. I will admit, reading other people’s opinions and reasons for voting for Trump made me see things in a new perspective.

One of the reasons people voted for him was that they think Trump is a self-made man. He did get a hefty loan from his father, but he used that money to make a name and legacy for himself. Some Republican voters hope that Trump’s experience as a businessman will enable the country to operate more effectively when it comes to managing money. After all, although Trump has gone bankrupt a few times, he is a billionaire right now.

I definitely do not approve of some of Trump’s actions. No one knows what kind of President he would be. I do believe that he genuinely thinks what he is doing is for America’s good, even if some of his ideas are rather bizarre. How America will turn out under Trump’s Presidency remains to be seen.

Yip Pin Xiu’s success

From: Allison Law Li Xuan, Pri 6, Tao Nan School

Recently, Yip Pin Xiu won two gold medals during Paralympic 2016 at Rio, Brazil. She is the first Singaporean who won two gold medals. She won one gold medal for 100m backstroke S2 in which she set the world record. And, she won the other gold medal for 50m backstroke S2. As a Singaporean, I am extremely proud that Singaporeans won multiple medals in Paralympics. Her resilience and determination make her a stronger athlete. Her never-give-up attitude inspires me and many others.

Despite suffering from muscular dystrophy, a genetic disorder that slowly breaks down muscles, and a nerve condition that affects eyesight, Yip Pin Xiu never lets her disability affect her life. Instead, she chose not to think of the years down the road and decided to think positively. All athletes put in a lot of effort to reach where they are and it is definitely not easier being a para-athlete. Yip Pin Xiu has indeed made herself, her family, her coaches and Singapore very proud! I admire her accomplishments. She became my instant role model.

Yip Pin Xiu mentioned that the most important ingredients of success are to love your own passion and believe in yourself. If she does not put in effort into everything, it will be a waste of time. I strongly agree with her. She also mentioned that if she is not disabled, she would not have taken up competitive swimming.

I hope that more people will understand the importance of persevering to the fullest. As the saying goes, “Perseverance is the key to success.” Nothing is impossible. Anyone, including you and I, can achieve our goals with determination and resilience, if a disabled person like Yip Pin Xiu can. Of course, along the way, we will meet difficulties and obstacles. But, as C.S Lewis says, “Failures are finger posts on the road to achievement.” No matter how hard our tasks may be, we cannot run away from reality. Instead, we should face them bravely and overcome them. Each time we face a challenging task, we must remind ourselves not to give up and be determined. I wish everyone success!

Amazing dolls

From: Chen Enying, Pri 6, Nanyang Primary

I have been fond of dolls ever since I was a young child. I had a whole wardrobe full of them, with everything ranging from small China porcelain dolls to long plastic Barbie ones. Sometimes, I would often wonder if there was anyone that could make them come alive.

After reading the article “Ping Lau’s amazing world of dolls”, (January 2017), I was fascinated by the fact that she could turn a ball of polymer clay into a beautiful marionette masterpiece. Her dolls depict the unique traditions and culture of different races and tribes through the clothes and accessories they wear. They are very detailed, and one brief glance bespoke hours of meticulous and skilful painting.

But, what I admire the professional and talented doll artist most for is the determination that drives her to put the best of effort in every piece she creates, knowing that her customers’ delighted and pleased expressions are worth the effort and care. If I were such a customer, it would certainly be very heart-warming to know how much time and effort she had spent in making just that one doll for the sake of bringing smiles onto her fellow customers’ faces.

The artist also mentioned that to hone a craft takes many years of trial and error, and a lot of perseverance as well. In life, we may face countless setbacks, but with just a little picking up, and a little self-encouragement, we can continue chasing our dreams again. As Winston Churchill once said, “Success is not final; failure is not fatal, it is the courage to continue that counts.” Let us all remember to never give up in the face of failures!

Be good to animals

From: Hannah Marie-Therese Nathan, Pri 4, Nanyang Primary

I am shocked to learn that many animals are being cruelly treated. I feel sad that poachers trap thousands of birds by stringing nets across their path of flight. These large flocks of birds are trying to find their way to warmer climates as temperatures in China go down but instead they end up flying into the poachers’ nets and getting entangled in them. Those birds that are caught may be sold as pets or for food; some of these beautiful creatures may also get killed in the process. There are some conservation groups that are working hard to try to stop such practices but many poachers are still getting away with this.

Besides birds, other animals (especially certain species of monkeys) are used for medical experiments. These monkeys are used by pharmaceutical companies to test out new medicines and surgical procedures before they can be used on us, humans. Although it is important to create new medicines, scientists should try to find other ways to test these medicines instead of using them on poor harmless animals. Since we share our planet with thousands of other creatures, we should try to co-exist with them in harmony and not treat them as disposable items.

I’m for simple switches!

From: Sheryl Ng, Pri 5, Tao Nan School

Many children around the world are deprived of clean water, safe food and basic essentials like light. Some have to do homework by candlelight. Yet Singapore tops the world when it comes to light pollution. What an irony, I thought to myself!

Every single day, we study and play in daylight, and head back to do our homework in the comfort of bright lights. There seems to be no lack of light wherever we are in modern Singapore. However, there are millions of people elsewhere who have no access to proper lighting. As children, what can we do to save more electricity so that more light gets to go around for those who need it? Can companies and organisations do more to use light wisely and not cause unnecessary light spillage into the dark skies?

I believe a simple switch can go a long way. This means switching off lights when not in use. At night, this allows us to see more stars in the night skies. Switching from lights that are not inefficient to better LED lights can also help us save energy I hope everyone can commit to saving more energy, and not contribute to any form of light pollution that is destroying Mother Earth.

HELP FOR INDIA’S CHILD BEGGARS

From: Kevin Tew Jian Ming, Pri 5, Qihua Primary

After reading the article “Helping India’s child beggars” (July 2016), I feel sad and heartbroken as the children have been kidnapped at a young age. The child beggars in India do not go to school, and they have to work hard to beg for money for their kidnappers, otherwise they will not be treated humanely. While they are struggling to stay alive, Singaporean children like us live in a safe environment and enjoy a good education.

But, one thing about the children in India inspires me. It is their perseverance and determination to stay alive and ability to be independent at a young age. These are values which many Singaporean children do not have. I am also learning that we should appreciate what we have and not take it for granted. Our forefathers had made the effort to make Singapore a wonderful country. If not for them, Singapore would not have become safe and prosperous.

I hope that I will have a chance to go to India to visit the children. I will donate food or money to them. Besides that, I hope that the Indian government will do more to put a stop to the kidnapping of innocent children.

The hunt for treasure

From: Samuel Chern, Pri 5, Nanyang Primary

After reading the article “Searching for Montezuma’s Gold” (June 2016), I hope that more people will read about this story and understand the dangers of greed. This article can also allow people to reflect on their actions and learn about their mistakes. More and more people around the world have been consumed by greed and this leads to corruption. Corruption is a serious case in the world, especially in China. Former members from the China Communist Party, who held top portfolios in the government, have been jailed over the past few years.

On the other hand, I think that we should continue the search for the treasure. Since technology has improved tremendously and archaeologists have a better chance of locating the treasure, why not give it a try? Perhaps, if someone finds the treasure, it will allow more people to know about this tragic story about the Aztecs and the Spaniards. Even though there have been numerous theories on where the treasure might be, I believe that nothing is impossible. In fact, archaeologists may discover something else apart from the treasure, and that could spark a new mission.

If the treasure is found, I hope that all of it will be housed in a museum. This would allow more people to learn about it and prevent greedy treasure hunters from stealing it. Maybe the discovery of the treasure will put an end to all the speculation as well.

Living on Mars

From: Rie Hong, Pri 5, Nan Hua Primary

After reading the article “At home on Mars; it could happen soon” (July 2016), I felt intrigued that my generation may be the first generation to colonise Mars. I hope that I can spend some time living on Mars during my lifetime. NASA has already created the technology to make life on Mars possible, and it will be almost a second Earth! It’s amazing!

As the atmosphere of Mars consists of 96 percent carbon dioxide, perhaps scientists are planning to grow plants there to make the atmosphere more like Earth’s. Or we could also let Moxie, the new machine, suck in the Martian atmosphere, and release oxygen. I think that in time, if global warming destroys Earth, we will not be extinct as we would still have Mars to depend on. If this situation really occurs, I hope that we will not repeat the same mistake on Mars.

I read on the paper that just recently, from May 30th to June 1st, Mars had been so close to Earth that many people saw it with their bare eyes and not with the use of a telescope. This phenomenon only happens every 2 years. As I missed the chance to see it this year, I hope that I will be able to see it again in 2018. I am already starting to save up for a telescope to use then!

These days, when I come across many new discoveries reported on the news, each time I feel surprised. I look forward to the day when citizens from different countries all over the world will be able to travel to Mars. I have been writing a fiction story on Martians. Reading this article, I learnt all the facts and new findings just in time to complete it. I hope that there will be more articles like this in What’s Up to keep me updated.

HELPING INDIA’S CHILD BEGGARS

From: Jorge Tay, Pri 5, Tao Nan School

I have learnt with great sadness that some children in India are forced to be beggars against their will by handlers (July 2016). These children were kidnapped and made to beg on the streets; the alms would be then taken from them by the handlers. What is more alarming is that children may be maimed to make them look more pitiful.

I realise now how fortunate I am compared to them. I have not thought much about people who are less fortunate than I am. Now that I do, I deeply sympathise with these children. Whenever my family and I go out together, my mother always says, “Hold my hand, I don’t want you to get lost!” In my mind, I would think, “Why must I always hold her hand?” I understand her concerns now. I cannot imagine myself being taken away from my family, tortured and forced to beg for money. Begging for money is already bad enough. And, I still have to hand the money over to the handlers? If I were one of those children, I would probably think that it is the end of my life.

I just hope that these children will be saved as soon as possible, and be freed of their current misery. Perhaps, their government should set up an agency where all child beggars should be rounded up from the streets and housed temporarily. While the children are seeking shelter at the agency, investigations should be carried out to find out who the real biological parents of the children are, with the aim of reuniting them, as well as to identify and capture the handlers and kidnappers. Only when the perpetrators of these heinous crimes are put behind bars can such children in India regain the freedom and happiness they so deserve.

Please return the diamond

From: Sidharth Rallabandi, Pri 6, Changkat Primary

The title of the article “Priceless diamond was a ‘gift’ from a child king” (June 2016) reminded me of the childish explanation I gave to my parents after cheating my six-year-old younger brother. It is very sad to read that a first-world country is behaving this way and not returning back the precious items that their establishment had taken from India in 200 years. At the same time, I feel proud that the British Queen wears a diamond that belongs to my country. Whenever there is a discussion about this precious jewel, the riches my country had before the British invasion are mentioned. When the British first came to India, India had wealth, richness in culture and education. The only drawback was the lack of unity amongst the kings of India and that became the downfall of India despite its huge wealth,culture and knowledge. I remember my parents and grandparents talking about the atrocities that British committed when the Indians fought for Independence. Over a period of 200 years, the British used the Indian economy to grow their industries. Any king who opposed it was tortured. The Koh-i-noor diamond was taken from a boy who might have fought to get it back if he had returned to India. It is very sad to read about how the British treated India. In my view, the diamond should be returned to India because it rightfully belongs to the Indians.

Waiting for vaccinations

From: Rayn Poh Jia Le, Pri 4, Qihua Primary

After reading the article “Some kids are still waiting for vaccinations” (June 2016), I felt sad for the children who did not get vaccinated because they would have a higher chance of getting diseases as compared to children who had their vaccinations â. Many babies in countries in Africa die as they do not get any vaccination and have weaker immune systems. I feel lucky to be a Singaporean because we have the opportunity to get vaccinated and stay healthy. The people who work hard to help the unfortunate children are kind-hearted. They are angels with hearts of gold. If there were more people like them, this problem would be solved and there would not be any children suffering from diseases that could be prevented with vaccinations.

I hope that, one day, vaccinations will be free of charge so that everyone can stay healthy. When I grow up, I want to be able to earn a lot of money so that I can provide vaccinations for the poor.

HURRAY FOR PUBLIC BEACHES!

From: Mok Ian, Pri 6, Nanyang Primary

After I read the article “Let’s buy this!” (March 2016), I felt the initiative taken by the two New Zealanders resonated with me. They garnered people with similar thinking to donate money in order to buy a beach, and then presented it to the public as a Christmas gift. They did so because they believed that beaches should be open to the public and not just for private use. This beach will be managed together with the government’s Department of Conservation. This is important because it will enhance the trust between the public and the government, in maintaining sufficient land for general public use. In Singapore, our public beach lines are not as long as those in countries like New Zealand. Most of our beaches are open to the public, with the exception of a few. If people were to buy the land and turn them into private beaches, then there would be very little land for public use. That would have a negative effect on the rights of the public, and may deepen the divide between the wealthy and the general public. I believe the policy of Singapore is in the right direction by making most beaches available to the public and keeping only very limited private beaches. I hope that this idea of making beaches for easy public access can be spread across all the countries in the world. That way, people will be able to enjoy nature in their own countries.

Looks don’t matter

From: Poh Zi Yang, Pri 6, Teck Ghee Primary

After reading the article, “Why thinking you are ugly is bad for you” (April 2016), I feel that what was stated was really true. Personally, I have never thought about this issue of appearance. However, when I ponder about this after reading the article, I realise that this really is happening. Children nowadays do care a lot about how they look and this is damaging society gradually. I feel that looks do not matter. It is not what is on the outside that matters, but what is on the inside. People really care about appearance nowadays. With social media like Instagram and Facebook, people focus even more on looks. People post pictures of themselves for everyone to see on social media. If people were mean, they would comment with nasty words and dislike the pictures. With such negativity, I am not surprised that people self-harm due to these, especially teenagers. They might get depressed and hate how they look. I went through a phase of thinking that I was ugly. I was very upset. I stopped talking to people and just stayed by myself, thinking that no one would like me. Although I knew that what I was thinking was wrong, I could not bring myself into believing so. Thankfully, my parents and friends encouraged me and made me realise how beautiful I really was. Now, I love how I look and think that the haters are just jealous. Speaking of haters, I think they criticise others because they are jealous. Honestly, haters are probably also people who are going through the same problems as the victims. Their negative emotions probably made them unable to think of what they are doing to others.

We Salute Selfless Doctors

From: Justin Tham Wee Heng, Pri 4, Nanyang Primary

After reading “When others want to get out, these doctors go in” (February 2016), I was very touched by the courageous volunteers who risked their precious lives to rescue the innocent civilians who were trapped in the civil-war during the 1960s. In fact, I was extremely furious with the Nigerian army as they slaughtered defenseless families and robbed their happiness. Fearing for their safety, none of the doctors dared to stand up and oppose the Nigerian government. If I had a choice, I would join forces with the doctors and treat the wounded. Instead of devastating their country through a prolonged civil war, I pray that they would stay united and focus on peace restoration for Nigeria.

Don’t be racist!

From: Angel Huang Jie, Pri 6, Changkat Primary

I feel that we need to put a stop to discrimination. Discrimination is quite evident in the present world today. I think discrimination is not just about looking down or discriminating against someone based on race or skin colour, but also about distancing some people based on their religion, nationality, culture or social class. We all have witnessed some form of discrimination in one way or the other. In USA and Europe, there seems to be a trend of discriminating against Muslims, based on the assumption that they are possible terrorists. In Singapore, I hear adults making nasty remarks and jokes about people from some nationalities, races or cultures, in the coffee shops or in at gatherings. Some enjoy hearing them and others enjoy telling them. These are racists. Others ignore them. They too are racists as they do not say anything to correct these people. When this happens, the person making the remarks and jokes is encouraged to proceed further. Staying silent is a form of being racist. Language and actions on racism should be handled there and then. It should be stopped. Those people making the remarks and jokes should be made to understand that it is not nice to speak that way and that such manners are not welcome and appropriate. As an eleven year-old child, I seriously do not see any differences among the races and nationalities. I have classmates and friends who are of different races, and some of them come from distant countries. We learn many things from each other, and our differences became learning opportunities. Why can’t the adults be like us, and create a world where people are not judged by the colour of their skin, but by the content of their character? We must always remember that everyone is born equal. Every cultural tradition and religion teaches us about respect. We must all learn to respect other people’s differences, and turn these differences into collective strengths.