Paper 2
Time: 2 1/4 hrs
Paper 2 consists of objective and subjective questions.
Each correct answer is 2 marks except for question 16 which is 4 marks.
Section A : Comprehension (Karutthunerthel)
Total Marks : 34
Questions : 1-16
1. Questions 1-10 are based on charts, articles, newspaper cuttings, jokes, comic strip, poems, notice, etc. and tests the students' comprehension of the matter.
2. Questions 11-15 are to be answered based on an essay.
3. Question 16 tests the students' ability to interpret a poem.
Section B : Comprehension (Karutthunerthel) and Grammar (Ilakkanam)
Total Marks : 26
Questions : 17-29
1. Q17-23 are based on a short story which tests both comprehension and grammar.
2. Q24-29 tests grammar that is studied in the Ilakkana Ilakkiya Vilakkavurei handout which encompasses the syllabus from Form 1-5.
Section C : Proverbs (Seyyul) and metaphores (Mozhiani)
Total Marks : 20
Questions : 30-39
1. All questions are tested from the Illakiyam part of the earlier mentioned handout.
This includes: Thirukkural, seyyul, ineimozhi, marabhuthodar, uvameithodar, iratteikilevi, pazhemozhi
Section D : Summary Writing (Thogutthel)
Total Marks : 20
Question : 40
1. A passage is given and the question requires the student to look for specific points and adding their own opinions. The requirements are clearly stated in the instructions.
2. The breakdown of marks is as follows:
Introduction (Munnurei)- 2 marks
-must state the requirement of the question and an additional point on what is written in the passage.
-Eg : The question may ask to write about the causes of air pollution. If the passage also talks about the effects, then this must be stated as well.
Points (Karuthukkel) -16 marks
-must be separated by 2 paragraphs
-the 1st must only be about what is in the passage (therinilei karutthukkel)
-using the earlier example,this would mean the causes of air pollution
-the 2nd must be your own opinions (putheinilei karuthukkel)
-the question may require the student to write steps to minimise pollution. these points will not be in the passage and if for some reason there are, the student cannot use those points.
-all in, there should be 8 points. students are encouraged to write more within the allocated number of words
Conclusion (Mudivurei) -2 marks
-write within a sentence
-2 points will be observed: the main message and the consequences
Eg: P1-should not contribute to air pollution
P2-it will lead to many health problems
Feb 28, 2009
lifting a bad mood
I found this article in Yahoo! Health by Dr. Maoshing Ni under the section Dr. Mao's Secrets of Longevity. He is a Yahoo! Health Expert for Alternative Medicine and the article talks about 7 Ways to Lift a Bad Mood.
Some of the things I could relate to was point no. 3 - Hands-on Healing.
I didn't realise it until I read this article. I totally agree that you feel better when you get a hug or give one. Sometimes I would get up feeling irritable or moody and I go in search of a hug. Giving my parents a hug makes me feel all better.
On a different note, I realised that sometimes you can feel bored of visiting old people especially grandparents. All they want is some company and that is why my mother makes it a point to visit them frequently. Then, I developed this thought. What if this was the last time you were going to see them? Wouldn't it be relieving to know that you spent your time with them and gave them a good hug when leaving? From that day on, I'd always give them a hug and spend quality time with them when we are visiting.
Back again, I'd also agree with point 7. Smell the Joy, although I'm not referring to aromatherapy. The smell of good food...mmmm! Forget about the taste, food that smells great always makes my day!!!
Tip: Don't enter a bakery with an empty stomach...You may end up emptying your pockets!
As Dr. Mao would put it, May you live long, live strong, and live happy!
Some of the things I could relate to was point no. 3 - Hands-on Healing.
I didn't realise it until I read this article. I totally agree that you feel better when you get a hug or give one. Sometimes I would get up feeling irritable or moody and I go in search of a hug. Giving my parents a hug makes me feel all better.
On a different note, I realised that sometimes you can feel bored of visiting old people especially grandparents. All they want is some company and that is why my mother makes it a point to visit them frequently. Then, I developed this thought. What if this was the last time you were going to see them? Wouldn't it be relieving to know that you spent your time with them and gave them a good hug when leaving? From that day on, I'd always give them a hug and spend quality time with them when we are visiting.
Back again, I'd also agree with point 7. Smell the Joy, although I'm not referring to aromatherapy. The smell of good food...mmmm! Forget about the taste, food that smells great always makes my day!!!
Tip: Don't enter a bakery with an empty stomach...You may end up emptying your pockets!
As Dr. Mao would put it, May you live long, live strong, and live happy!
Books for Tamil and Tamil Lit.
These are books I used to do model questions for Tamil and Tamil Literature. The ones here are the 2007 editions. I followed up with the 2008 edition which contains tougher, more challenging questions for the examinations.
These modules are the initiative of the Perak Secondary School Tamil Teachers (Perak Maanile Ideinileippalli Thamizhaasiriyer Mandrem). The modules are published annually.
These are the guides/references I used to study Tamil Literature. The book in blue is for the novel and drama and the red is for the poems.
Consists of detail explanations and notes regarding the books, and model questions & answers.
The writer of the first part (the blue book) is N.Patchaibalan and editor Y.Sahadevan. The 2nd part (red book) is done by S. Seeni Naina Mohd. who also compiled the poems.
Feb 23, 2009
The first challenge
I've been asking around about some of the most common challenges faced by secondary school students. I'll cover them one by one in separate posts. Feel free to add comments and ideas of your own. So, here's to our first challenge (toast, if u hv a wine glass nearby)!
Challenge #1: Homework
Ok, so it's true that sometimes the loads of homework could eat you whole inside out. Or not. I read once of this analogy. Imagine that you are in the sea swimming when the waves are calm. Then, the waves get higher and rougher. If you are calm and observant, you can predict the frequency and nature of the waves and will be able to balance and swim yourself to safety. If you were to panic and not plan your moves, you may drown.
What I'm trying to say is don't drown yourself in homework, don't give up either. Do the work efficiently and gain from it and do not compromise the quality of life in the process.
I used to envy my sister (still do) because somehow her work is always done and she has time to do anything she wants. Her secret is she does it in school. No, not by doing it while the teacher is teaching but would use her in-between-lessons time. I know of some friends who do their work in the library while awaiting their transport back home.
Ok, so it's true that sometimes the loads of homework could eat you whole inside out. Or not. I read once of this analogy. Imagine that you are in the sea swimming when the waves are calm. Then, the waves get higher and rougher. If you are calm and observant, you can predict the frequency and nature of the waves and will be able to balance and swim yourself to safety. If you were to panic and not plan your moves, you may drown.
What I'm trying to say is don't drown yourself in homework, don't give up either. Do the work efficiently and gain from it and do not compromise the quality of life in the process.
I used to envy my sister (still do) because somehow her work is always done and she has time to do anything she wants. Her secret is she does it in school. No, not by doing it while the teacher is teaching but would use her in-between-lessons time. I know of some friends who do their work in the library while awaiting their transport back home.
The usual killer habits such as watching television and surfing the net for unwanted reasons should be avoided at this point of a time.
I know of some people who take advantage of Miss Boring Teacher's class to complete assignments. Many have gotten away with it. Their logic is that if you're not going to gain anything by listening, use the time to your advantage!
There are some downsides to this. Firstly, you cannot possibly know what you have missed. There is always something to gain by listening. You may need the extra energy to concentrate but think of it this way. You have covered the topic at least once so you're not totally nil about it.
Speaking of which, this is another challenge!
Back to the topic at hand, for afternoon school students, it is always better to wake up early to start with homework. Do what you can the previous night but be sure to get enough sleep. My brother prefers doing it late into the night. This is alright if you can stand up straight the following day. It is also advisable to find a place to study and get the necessary tools ready.
After school, I would take out all my books and lay them out on the table. I'll immediately pack my bag for the following day. Then, I'll check to see if there is any homework for the following day's lessons. A good tip would be to write down the day's homework as the teacher is giving it so that you don't miss out on anything.
Next, allocate a certain amount of time for each subject based on the amount of work. Now, you can see how much of time you have and need. You will be more focused on finishing it. Once you have completed it, be sure to list down the remaining homework and time allocation.
Sometimes, you may not have the time the following day to follow up on some of the work. So, it is best to finish what you can when you have the time. In short, don't procrastinate!
Besides, when dealing with homework, always make sure that you gain something out of it. Not more handwriting practice but perhaps a sort of revision. Honestly, you will not have the time to revise most of the homework. Learn it there and then. Correct yourself when faced with a mistake and make sure you completely understand. Make extra notes if you need to remind yourself of key points and mistake prone areas.
past year papers 2008
You can get most SPM 2008 papers here in PDF form.
Includes Tamil Literature and Tamil Papers 1 & 2.
Also can find PMR 2008 papers.
http://www.scribd.com/pss%20smks
Includes Tamil Literature and Tamil Papers 1 & 2.
Also can find PMR 2008 papers.
http://www.scribd.com/pss%20smks
Feb 19, 2009
SPM Tamil format (1)
Tamil paper
Code : 6354
Papers : 2
PAPER 1
Time : 1 3/4 hrs
Section A : Open-ended essay (thirantha mudivu katturei)
Allocated time : 1 hour 15 min
Instuctions : Write an essay not less than 250 words.
Questions : 5 choices are given, choose one
CHOICE 1: One-word title (oru thaleipu katturei)
-Essay cannot be written in the form of experiences or stories. Anything
related to the topic can be brought up i.e the issues surrounding the
matter, history, progress, etc.
-eg : Thaai (mother), Kaadu (forest)
C 2 : Argumentive essay (Vaathe katturei)
-Essay should be biased; Must only write in favour of the title.
eg : Nagerpura Vaazhkeiye Sirenthethu (Life in the City is Better),
Penngal Velaikku Selvathey Nallathu (It is Better for Women to Work)
C 3 : Debate-style Essay (Vivaathe katturei)
-Essay must include both advantages and disadvantages unless only required
to write one side (the first example requires this as there are no disadvantages).
-eg : Pale Mozhigal Karpathaal Yerpadum Nanmeigal (Benefits of Learning
Many Languages), Vilembarengalinaal Yerpadum Vilaivugal (The Effects of
Advertisements)
C 4 : Factual Essay
-This choice normally requires the essay to be written as a speech to a target
group.
-eg : Kanini Kalviyin Avasiyem (Importance of Computer Education), Surrulaa
Thureiyin Valerchi (The Progress in Tourism Industry)
C 5 : Short story or drama script (Sirukathei allathu naadegem)
-A theme is given as a stimulus.
eg : Kaalam Thaveraamei (Punctuality), Naattu Pattru (Patriotism)
Section B : Guided composition (vazhikaati katturei)
Allocated time : 30 minutes
Instructions : Write an essay.
Questions : 2 choices given, choose 1
CHOICE 1
-Normally required to write a formatted essay based on given points.
Eg : Write an official letter (athigaarepoorve kadithem) to the Education Minister regarding challenges faced in a school.
- Can be asked to write a speech (urei), report (arikei), notice (arivippu), etc.
CHOICE 2
-Required to transfer information accurately.
-Can be given charts, tables, notes, agenda, etc. and asked to write information in paragraphs.
-Can be given a passage (ureinadei) and asked to transfer it into dialogue form (ureiyaadel)or any other form.
Code : 6354
Papers : 2
PAPER 1
Time : 1 3/4 hrs
Section A : Open-ended essay (thirantha mudivu katturei)
Allocated time : 1 hour 15 min
Instuctions : Write an essay not less than 250 words.
Questions : 5 choices are given, choose one
CHOICE 1: One-word title (oru thaleipu katturei)
-Essay cannot be written in the form of experiences or stories. Anything
related to the topic can be brought up i.e the issues surrounding the
matter, history, progress, etc.
-eg : Thaai (mother), Kaadu (forest)
C 2 : Argumentive essay (Vaathe katturei)
-Essay should be biased; Must only write in favour of the title.
eg : Nagerpura Vaazhkeiye Sirenthethu (Life in the City is Better),
Penngal Velaikku Selvathey Nallathu (It is Better for Women to Work)
C 3 : Debate-style Essay (Vivaathe katturei)
-Essay must include both advantages and disadvantages unless only required
to write one side (the first example requires this as there are no disadvantages).
-eg : Pale Mozhigal Karpathaal Yerpadum Nanmeigal (Benefits of Learning
Many Languages), Vilembarengalinaal Yerpadum Vilaivugal (The Effects of
Advertisements)
C 4 : Factual Essay
-This choice normally requires the essay to be written as a speech to a target
group.
-eg : Kanini Kalviyin Avasiyem (Importance of Computer Education), Surrulaa
Thureiyin Valerchi (The Progress in Tourism Industry)
C 5 : Short story or drama script (Sirukathei allathu naadegem)
-A theme is given as a stimulus.
eg : Kaalam Thaveraamei (Punctuality), Naattu Pattru (Patriotism)
Section B : Guided composition (vazhikaati katturei)
Allocated time : 30 minutes
Instructions : Write an essay.
Questions : 2 choices given, choose 1
CHOICE 1
-Normally required to write a formatted essay based on given points.
Eg : Write an official letter (athigaarepoorve kadithem) to the Education Minister regarding challenges faced in a school.
- Can be asked to write a speech (urei), report (arikei), notice (arivippu), etc.
CHOICE 2
-Required to transfer information accurately.
-Can be given charts, tables, notes, agenda, etc. and asked to write information in paragraphs.
-Can be given a passage (ureinadei) and asked to transfer it into dialogue form (ureiyaadel)or any other form.
Tips - studying for SPM
I just got this idea. I'm going to post tips and suggestions on how to study the SPM subjects. Since I was in a Pure Science class and took 12 subjects, I would only be able to discuss what I know. Therefore, do add in your own suggestions and comments for the ones I did not and for the ones I have. Good luck everybody!!!
PS: I found ReCom which has forums discussing this topic. Lots of response. Includes STPM subjects and FAQs.
PS: I found ReCom which has forums discussing this topic. Lots of response. Includes STPM subjects and FAQs.
Tamil Lit. format
Time : 2 1/2 hrs
Format : Section 1 - short, clear answers
Section 2 - elaborate, essay form answers
Section 1 : 1 hour
- Novel (14 marks)
Sub-Q 1. 1 mark; short, simple answer; usually questioned on theme, name of characters, etc.
2. 2 marks; requires 2 short, simple answers; similar to Sub-Q 1.
3. 4 marks; requires recalling of events and reasons of actions.
4. 7 marks; a dialog is extracted from text; recall characters involved and events that occur before or after that scene.
- Drama (14 marks)
Similar to the novel.
- Poems (12 marks)
Sub-Q 1. 1 mark; recall poet's name, theme of poem, meaning of a word, etc.
2. 1 mark; similar to Sub-Q 1
3. 4 marks; explain meaning of poem, feelings involved, etc.
4. 6 marks; identify specific characteristics in poem eg: yethugai, mohnei, ani sirappu
Section 2 : 1 1/2 hrs
Essay questions; 2 choices for each division; choose one.
-Novel (20marks)
1. Intro - title of book, author's name, theme, brief elaboration of question - 2 marks
2. Points - total : 8 points x 2 marks each; include examples from text, tie explanation to text
3. Conclusion - relate points to question/summary of points - 2 marks
*There are questions which require the student to compare and thus, comparisons must be done with equal points. Example, if two main female characters are to be compared, each character must be explained using 4 points each.
-Drama (20 marks)
Similar to novel
-Poems ( 20 marks)
1. Intro - title pf poem, poet's name, title of book, name of compiler, theme
2. Points - similar to novel
3. Conclusion - similar to novel
*The first choice in poem normally requires students to elaborate on the meaning and messages brought about by the poet. The second choice requires students to identify special characteristics (eg : porul nayem, anigal, sollaadchi) in the given poem.
Format : Section 1 - short, clear answers
Section 2 - elaborate, essay form answers
Section 1 : 1 hour
2 choices of questions, choose one;
questions are based on text;
each question has 4 sub-questions
- Novel (14 marks)
Sub-Q 1. 1 mark; short, simple answer; usually questioned on theme, name of characters, etc.
2. 2 marks; requires 2 short, simple answers; similar to Sub-Q 1.
3. 4 marks; requires recalling of events and reasons of actions.
4. 7 marks; a dialog is extracted from text; recall characters involved and events that occur before or after that scene.
- Drama (14 marks)
Similar to the novel.
- Poems (12 marks)
Sub-Q 1. 1 mark; recall poet's name, theme of poem, meaning of a word, etc.
2. 1 mark; similar to Sub-Q 1
3. 4 marks; explain meaning of poem, feelings involved, etc.
4. 6 marks; identify specific characteristics in poem eg: yethugai, mohnei, ani sirappu
Section 2 : 1 1/2 hrs
Essay questions; 2 choices for each division; choose one.
-Novel (20marks)
1. Intro - title of book, author's name, theme, brief elaboration of question - 2 marks
2. Points - total : 8 points x 2 marks each; include examples from text, tie explanation to text
3. Conclusion - relate points to question/summary of points - 2 marks
*There are questions which require the student to compare and thus, comparisons must be done with equal points. Example, if two main female characters are to be compared, each character must be explained using 4 points each.
-Drama (20 marks)
Similar to novel
-Poems ( 20 marks)
1. Intro - title pf poem, poet's name, title of book, name of compiler, theme
2. Points - similar to novel
3. Conclusion - similar to novel
*The first choice in poem normally requires students to elaborate on the meaning and messages brought about by the poet. The second choice requires students to identify special characteristics (eg : porul nayem, anigal, sollaadchi) in the given poem.
Feb 18, 2009
Tamil and Tamil Lit. SPM (2)
*Note: This post does not apply to the current syllabus. New reading material has been selected.
Many of my friends did not want to take up Tamil Literature, saying that Tamil alone was sufficient, too many subjects were a burden and it was a waste of time as you are not going to use it unless your career plans are going in that direction. I've heard it all.
As for Tamil Lit. SPM 2007 onwards, 3 books are to be studied : -
1. A novel - Ponn Vilangu by N. Paarthasaarathy
2. A drama - Kaaviya Naayagi by R.Palanisamy
3. 14 Poems - Kavithei Poongkothu compiled by S. Seeni Naina Mohd.
I'll discuss the formats in a separate post.
1. The novel
The author speaks of a young man in India, how he faces personal challenges and social pressure as he is from a middle-class family, his well-built character and weaknesses (yes, he is not perfect) and how he deals with the people around him.
Frankly, I am not one to just pick up a 600+ page novel. By studying this novel, it not only gave me a change in perspective but I also learnt how to analyse reading materials. The character, the decisions they make, their social settings that define them, etc.
Clearly, the author introduces the different classes in a society and how far people are willing to go to achieve their goals, be it the protagonist or the antagonist. The story line itself has its twists and turns as readers cannot expect anything. A tragic ending it has but reality speaks through the author's work.
Beautiful quotes and critical thinking abilities are showcased. This way, I learnt of scholars (the protagonist is an avid reader of Tamil books), their thoughts and how rich the language is. Every event is something worth thinking. I definitely learnt not to accept things at the surface level but to think and think about why, how, who, etc.
2. The drama
It is set during the reign of the great kings, Seran, Sozhan and Paandiyan. Using a female poet as the centre of his piece, the writer narrates using flashbacks in a post-war time.
By reading this book, it was as if I had been transported back in time, where knights on horses and great kings ruled huge empires and protected their people by all means. Treason, love, loyalty, courage, etc. is clearly brought up, adding to the flavour.
By the time you finish this book, you would have a better glimpse of that era, how great wars were started, kings that rose and fell, ministers who tried to overthrow their king, etc.
The script talks about a young female poet who seeks justice for her husband, the Seran king, after a war. Her plight is brought up to the Sozhan king who had just won the war by stabbing his enemy in the chest but, the sword goes in through and through until it reaches the Seran king's back. It is said that only a coward will have a wound in his back as he would have been trying to escape when he was stabbed. Ashamed that he will be seen as a coward, the Seran king dies in the battlefield after asking his wife to seek justice in his name.
The script showcases alot of traditions, many that are unknown by today's generation, and family ties that hold strong even in stormy weathers.
3. The poems
All 14 poems are written by various poets from India and Malaysia. Using a wide array of themes, the poems have been carefully selected for the students to be exposed to. From loyalty to the country, to the love of the Tamil language, the poems instil values and bring about a different view of the world.
Honestly, some poems are tougher to understand than others. This is where enhancement of vocabulary comes in. By using a simple guide written by S. Seeni Naina Mohd. himself, students will be able to understand the poems word for word.
One of the new things that I've learnt by analysing the poems are the rules used to write them. Who would have thought that so much energy is given to writing each and every word and line. The poems have underlying meanings which are not easily detected by one on the first read, thus the interest to study it evolves.
When I was studying these poems, I used to think how much others were losing out by not knowing all of these. I realised that not many are aware of the properties used to write a traditional poem, a heritage that was not properly passed down. I do still feel grateful for being exposed to the wonders of the language and one day, hope to pass it on.
Many of my friends did not want to take up Tamil Literature, saying that Tamil alone was sufficient, too many subjects were a burden and it was a waste of time as you are not going to use it unless your career plans are going in that direction. I've heard it all.
As for Tamil Lit. SPM 2007 onwards, 3 books are to be studied : -
1. A novel - Ponn Vilangu by N. Paarthasaarathy
2. A drama - Kaaviya Naayagi by R.Palanisamy
3. 14 Poems - Kavithei Poongkothu compiled by S. Seeni Naina Mohd.
I'll discuss the formats in a separate post.
1. The novel
The author speaks of a young man in India, how he faces personal challenges and social pressure as he is from a middle-class family, his well-built character and weaknesses (yes, he is not perfect) and how he deals with the people around him.
Frankly, I am not one to just pick up a 600+ page novel. By studying this novel, it not only gave me a change in perspective but I also learnt how to analyse reading materials. The character, the decisions they make, their social settings that define them, etc.
Clearly, the author introduces the different classes in a society and how far people are willing to go to achieve their goals, be it the protagonist or the antagonist. The story line itself has its twists and turns as readers cannot expect anything. A tragic ending it has but reality speaks through the author's work.
Beautiful quotes and critical thinking abilities are showcased. This way, I learnt of scholars (the protagonist is an avid reader of Tamil books), their thoughts and how rich the language is. Every event is something worth thinking. I definitely learnt not to accept things at the surface level but to think and think about why, how, who, etc.
2. The drama
It is set during the reign of the great kings, Seran, Sozhan and Paandiyan. Using a female poet as the centre of his piece, the writer narrates using flashbacks in a post-war time.
By reading this book, it was as if I had been transported back in time, where knights on horses and great kings ruled huge empires and protected their people by all means. Treason, love, loyalty, courage, etc. is clearly brought up, adding to the flavour.
By the time you finish this book, you would have a better glimpse of that era, how great wars were started, kings that rose and fell, ministers who tried to overthrow their king, etc.
The script talks about a young female poet who seeks justice for her husband, the Seran king, after a war. Her plight is brought up to the Sozhan king who had just won the war by stabbing his enemy in the chest but, the sword goes in through and through until it reaches the Seran king's back. It is said that only a coward will have a wound in his back as he would have been trying to escape when he was stabbed. Ashamed that he will be seen as a coward, the Seran king dies in the battlefield after asking his wife to seek justice in his name.
The script showcases alot of traditions, many that are unknown by today's generation, and family ties that hold strong even in stormy weathers.
3. The poems
All 14 poems are written by various poets from India and Malaysia. Using a wide array of themes, the poems have been carefully selected for the students to be exposed to. From loyalty to the country, to the love of the Tamil language, the poems instil values and bring about a different view of the world.
Honestly, some poems are tougher to understand than others. This is where enhancement of vocabulary comes in. By using a simple guide written by S. Seeni Naina Mohd. himself, students will be able to understand the poems word for word.
One of the new things that I've learnt by analysing the poems are the rules used to write them. Who would have thought that so much energy is given to writing each and every word and line. The poems have underlying meanings which are not easily detected by one on the first read, thus the interest to study it evolves.
When I was studying these poems, I used to think how much others were losing out by not knowing all of these. I realised that not many are aware of the properties used to write a traditional poem, a heritage that was not properly passed down. I do still feel grateful for being exposed to the wonders of the language and one day, hope to pass it on.
Tamil and Tamil Lit. SPM - why?
I've faced students come up to me and ask - why...
Why should they bother taking those subjects?
Why add on to the burden?
Why even consider?
Having prepared for those examinations, I can now give a clearer answer.
1. If you are a Tamil school student or a student who studied Tamil separately, it will serve as an upgrade to the knowledge in hand.
When you do not study a certain subject over a period of time, you tend to lose touch. Hence, the earlier education wasted.
Looking into the Tamil subject first, from my own experience, I only started studying it properly in Form 3 after leaving primary school. I realised then, how much I'd forgotten the subject in the midst of the hustle and bustle of secondary school. It was a long process to get back on track and am grateful that I did. Yet, I do know that some knowledge acquired during that tender age had slipped off my mind.
In secondary school, the Tamil syllabus goes into more details of grammar, etc. You learn to appreciate the language better when you see that it has so much of satisfaction to offer. In the end, you come to a conclusion that what you have studied is the very basics and there is a whole world to be explored.
2. So, how is that going to help you? I say that knowledge never hurt anyone. If you want to know the language, this is the time. You have the time and resources to help you out. Besides, if Tamil is your mother tongue, wouldn't it be embarassing to know that you cannot speak let alone read and write.
You also have an extra language in hand thus, allowing you to reach out to more people. It's not just about speaking but, knowing the language and the people first-hand.
Tamil is an ancient language that is still spoken widely today. Not to mention the rich culture and wealth of information it carries. By studying the subject, you are also exposed to lifestyles, traditions and the society plus a little history along the way.
3. Is it a burden? I say not at all. While some people can prepare for up to 21 subjects for the SPM, why not take Tamil? It's the discipline and the will to excel that is needed. Challenge yourself, this is the best time.
By adding on to the number of subjects, you can still manage. Time management, etc. will help you to pull the subject into routine. You had to study for 5 or 7 subjects for UPSR, 7 or 8 for the PMR and pull through for SPM by adding on until 9 or 10. We are very flexible so there is no worry there.
4. Some may ask, why go through the extra length just to fit in an extra subject? At the end of secondary school, you have an upper hand compared to your peers. It's a whole different circle - the Tamil literate group.
I'll discuss about Tamil lit. in my next post. Feel free to comment. I want to know your opinions.
Why should they bother taking those subjects?
Why add on to the burden?
Why even consider?
Having prepared for those examinations, I can now give a clearer answer.
1. If you are a Tamil school student or a student who studied Tamil separately, it will serve as an upgrade to the knowledge in hand.
When you do not study a certain subject over a period of time, you tend to lose touch. Hence, the earlier education wasted.
Looking into the Tamil subject first, from my own experience, I only started studying it properly in Form 3 after leaving primary school. I realised then, how much I'd forgotten the subject in the midst of the hustle and bustle of secondary school. It was a long process to get back on track and am grateful that I did. Yet, I do know that some knowledge acquired during that tender age had slipped off my mind.
In secondary school, the Tamil syllabus goes into more details of grammar, etc. You learn to appreciate the language better when you see that it has so much of satisfaction to offer. In the end, you come to a conclusion that what you have studied is the very basics and there is a whole world to be explored.
2. So, how is that going to help you? I say that knowledge never hurt anyone. If you want to know the language, this is the time. You have the time and resources to help you out. Besides, if Tamil is your mother tongue, wouldn't it be embarassing to know that you cannot speak let alone read and write.
You also have an extra language in hand thus, allowing you to reach out to more people. It's not just about speaking but, knowing the language and the people first-hand.
Tamil is an ancient language that is still spoken widely today. Not to mention the rich culture and wealth of information it carries. By studying the subject, you are also exposed to lifestyles, traditions and the society plus a little history along the way.
3. Is it a burden? I say not at all. While some people can prepare for up to 21 subjects for the SPM, why not take Tamil? It's the discipline and the will to excel that is needed. Challenge yourself, this is the best time.
By adding on to the number of subjects, you can still manage. Time management, etc. will help you to pull the subject into routine. You had to study for 5 or 7 subjects for UPSR, 7 or 8 for the PMR and pull through for SPM by adding on until 9 or 10. We are very flexible so there is no worry there.
4. Some may ask, why go through the extra length just to fit in an extra subject? At the end of secondary school, you have an upper hand compared to your peers. It's a whole different circle - the Tamil literate group.
I'll discuss about Tamil lit. in my next post. Feel free to comment. I want to know your opinions.
Feb 15, 2009
what to do for the holidays
Ok, so I have people tell me that they get soooo bored during the holidays; school or work sounds better. Some say that their parents restrict them from going out of the house. Here are a few suggestions. Improvise accordingly. Do tell me what you think...
1. Pick up an instrument.
One of the many common ones wud b the guitar. Grab 1 (buy or borrow), get into u-tube and start learning. They teach beginners simple notes and even songs...u cud even learn to tune the guitar...
Tip: U cud also venture into song-writing & singing or if u know an instrument so well, upload ur own videos.
2. Move to the groove
If u wanna try sumthin new, why not learn up a few dance moves. If ur into choreography, then u cud pick up different steps here & there, put it all 2gather and just have some fun. Again, u can find this in u-tube. Or u cud just sit back & watch others sweat it out 4 u.
Tip: Whenever a few of my cuzzins r around, we'd pick up steps from each other & incorporate them into our dances. Find out what ur fly & frenz know.
3. Like what u eat?
Get the recipe. It's common for a certain recipe 2 b passed down in families. So, get it. U may not like to cook but getting the recipe is like preservation of heritage. Love ur mother's cooking? She'll b glad 2 hand down the recipe. So, next time when ur missing the aroma, just pull out ur recipe book and cook away.
Tip : U can also do this if ur eating out & find a recipe u like. Many of my relatives' cooking r other ppl's recipe. Some r from other countries they visit.
4. Get back 2 ur roots
Put 2gather ur fly tree..an extended one. Start from the ppl u know and move from there. (Got this idea when I realised I'm not sure who's who in a family function!) Get down names, match them up with photos & find out where they r & what they do. U may b surprised knowing who's related 2 u.
Tip: U cud find lots of putting-together-family-tree ideas from the net. My aunt compiled and created a long directory for our side of the family including bdays, contacts, etc. & emailed it to evry1. She'd also update us whenever there's a change.
5. Learn the culture
Many of us don't practice alot of traditions nowadays so, visit ur grandparents or any elderly relative & find out the type of routines they used to carry out, the ceremonies & its purposes, life back then (don't believe evrythin u c in the movies), clothes, language, etc.
Tip: B sure 2 carry along a videocam or paper & pen, or anythin else u have in mind, to record the data coz u'll never know when it'll become handy.
6. Do the work
If ur really stuck @ home, help out by doing all the housework. Ur parents will surely b grateful. Let them take a break. My siblings & I used to clean & tidy up the whole place, & prepare some interestin dishes 4 our parents when they were out.
Tip: U cud also plan a small show-we used to sing, dance, etc. while our parents 'enjoyed' their meal.
7. Family photos
Now, if ur in the same situation that I'm in, then u'd probably have a shelf full of photos collecting dust. If u have a scanner @ home, scan all ur photos into the computer, sort them out by dates, events, ppl, etc. (u cud make copies of the same photo if it were 2 match different categories). U cud also get huge albums & start sorting them out.
Tip: Get other fly members to add photos according 2 the categories. That way, u'll have a larger database.
8. Get organised
I love to keep things that give a certain sentimental value or remind me of a certain incident such as movie tickets, greeting cards, wrapping paper,etc. So, what I did was I searched 4 one of those unused diaries I've been keeping and pasted them in. Next, I wrote down the time and incident(s) that I wanted 2 recall. This way, I know that my stuff is all in 1 place.
Tip: The greeting cards- U cud cut and paste and create new cards of ur own. My aunt did such a wonderful job with this, ppl wanted 2 buy her cards.
9. Help out those in need
If ur a good student, u cud actually get some of ur younger relatives 2gather & help them out with their work. My fren was so good @ it, her cousin called her frens to join in. Not only do u get 2 know ur fly better, u actually learn 2 deal with ppl & how 2 manage urself. Besides, u can help out in homes, join programmes hosted by NGOs with a cause, etc.
Tip: Need alot of patience!
I think that's it 4 now. My brain's kinda numb. Surely will add on to the list if I think of any more. Do share ur ideas, too. Love to hear them...cheerio!
1. Pick up an instrument.
One of the many common ones wud b the guitar. Grab 1 (buy or borrow), get into u-tube and start learning. They teach beginners simple notes and even songs...u cud even learn to tune the guitar...
Tip: U cud also venture into song-writing & singing or if u know an instrument so well, upload ur own videos.
2. Move to the groove
If u wanna try sumthin new, why not learn up a few dance moves. If ur into choreography, then u cud pick up different steps here & there, put it all 2gather and just have some fun. Again, u can find this in u-tube. Or u cud just sit back & watch others sweat it out 4 u.
Tip: Whenever a few of my cuzzins r around, we'd pick up steps from each other & incorporate them into our dances. Find out what ur fly & frenz know.
3. Like what u eat?
Get the recipe. It's common for a certain recipe 2 b passed down in families. So, get it. U may not like to cook but getting the recipe is like preservation of heritage. Love ur mother's cooking? She'll b glad 2 hand down the recipe. So, next time when ur missing the aroma, just pull out ur recipe book and cook away.
Tip : U can also do this if ur eating out & find a recipe u like. Many of my relatives' cooking r other ppl's recipe. Some r from other countries they visit.
4. Get back 2 ur roots
Put 2gather ur fly tree..an extended one. Start from the ppl u know and move from there. (Got this idea when I realised I'm not sure who's who in a family function!) Get down names, match them up with photos & find out where they r & what they do. U may b surprised knowing who's related 2 u.
Tip: U cud find lots of putting-together-family-tree ideas from the net. My aunt compiled and created a long directory for our side of the family including bdays, contacts, etc. & emailed it to evry1. She'd also update us whenever there's a change.
5. Learn the culture
Many of us don't practice alot of traditions nowadays so, visit ur grandparents or any elderly relative & find out the type of routines they used to carry out, the ceremonies & its purposes, life back then (don't believe evrythin u c in the movies), clothes, language, etc.
Tip: B sure 2 carry along a videocam or paper & pen, or anythin else u have in mind, to record the data coz u'll never know when it'll become handy.
6. Do the work
If ur really stuck @ home, help out by doing all the housework. Ur parents will surely b grateful. Let them take a break. My siblings & I used to clean & tidy up the whole place, & prepare some interestin dishes 4 our parents when they were out.
Tip: U cud also plan a small show-we used to sing, dance, etc. while our parents 'enjoyed' their meal.
7. Family photos
Now, if ur in the same situation that I'm in, then u'd probably have a shelf full of photos collecting dust. If u have a scanner @ home, scan all ur photos into the computer, sort them out by dates, events, ppl, etc. (u cud make copies of the same photo if it were 2 match different categories). U cud also get huge albums & start sorting them out.
Tip: Get other fly members to add photos according 2 the categories. That way, u'll have a larger database.
8. Get organised
I love to keep things that give a certain sentimental value or remind me of a certain incident such as movie tickets, greeting cards, wrapping paper,etc. So, what I did was I searched 4 one of those unused diaries I've been keeping and pasted them in. Next, I wrote down the time and incident(s) that I wanted 2 recall. This way, I know that my stuff is all in 1 place.
Tip: The greeting cards- U cud cut and paste and create new cards of ur own. My aunt did such a wonderful job with this, ppl wanted 2 buy her cards.
9. Help out those in need
If ur a good student, u cud actually get some of ur younger relatives 2gather & help them out with their work. My fren was so good @ it, her cousin called her frens to join in. Not only do u get 2 know ur fly better, u actually learn 2 deal with ppl & how 2 manage urself. Besides, u can help out in homes, join programmes hosted by NGOs with a cause, etc.
Tip: Need alot of patience!
I think that's it 4 now. My brain's kinda numb. Surely will add on to the list if I think of any more. Do share ur ideas, too. Love to hear them...cheerio!
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