Thursday, May 10, 2007
Class Document for May 10 (Put Revisions and New Articles Here)
Here's the link: May 10 Document. Looking forward to your revisions and additions. I'll publish a number of articles this weekend and will let you know when done. Be alert to any glitches (like the Letcho) and let me know about them! I'll fix them asap.
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Road to the Passport Office
The passport office has been busy, I heard. Today I tried it myself. This is how it went on Friday May 4th, 2007.
5:24 AM Edmond SkyTrain Station
I hopped on the first train. A handful of passengers were on board. By Joyce Station, the train was full. Men with Canada Post uniforms and construction workers stood by the door. The train was cleared at Burrard Station, and only a few got off at Waterfront. I followed the direction to Sinclair Center.
5:50 AM Sinclair Center
The line up started at the main entrance on Hastings street. People were prepared: folding chairs, blankets, Thermoses, paper cups, a big box of Tim Horton doughnuts. Two were sleeping in the sleeping bags. The line up made a turn at Granville and continued to the end of the building.
Soon, a man came around, yelling, “Seats for sale!” He seemed to be sleeping on the street for some time. Then another guy. Someone asked the price, but they would only talk to the serious buyers. 60 bucks for the 9th spot, I overheard.
“The door opens at seven! Seven thirty, you’ll be in the office! Eight thirty, you’ll be home, sipping coffee!” The third shouted. His hand at the sleeve was stainless steel, crooked like Captain Hook’s.
A security poked his head out from the side door. “Today is the worst [line up]!” he grinned. According to him, the line up on Friday is twice as long as usual, and the rain doesn’t matter.
An hour later, a man in front of me left the line. He said he wasn’t in a hurry. He wished us luck. A girl shivered, “It’s cold [outside]!” She wore flipflops and her toenails were painted blue.
7:00 AM The door opened
The line up started moving forward. A few meters in every 15 minutes or so.
A government official showed up with yellow tickets. “This is the ticket that proves you lined up today!” she yelled. “Hold on to it, like a golden ticket from Willy Wonka!”
A young man with a black hat appeared with a wagon. He was selling coffee and snacks. The big muffins looked yummy. Very tempting. When he came back thirty minutes later, they were all gone.
8:58 AM The passport Office
A group of twenty were allowed to go inside to the passport office.
By the door, we were informed that if, 1) our trip is after June 18th, 2) we have applications properly ready, 3) we pay cash or money order (no credit card), we could drop off the applications and go home. A few chose the option. In all, fourteen counters were handling the applicants.
After showing my papers, I was told to be back at 11:30. A new ticket was issued.
The line up outside was still long. The end was about where I had started earlier.
I was back at 11:20. But they sent me out for another hour.
12:30 PM The office again
I sat and waited for my number to be called. My turn came at 1:10. Everything was fine. The officer told me that the passport would be in the mail by early June. At 1:25, I was out of the office. All done. Phew!
541 words
By the way, Brad, I’ve gotten your e-mail today! Way slower than a snail mail!
The photo selection is all up to you.
And thanks, class, you showed me something I didn’t see.
Is it still too long?
Hello Brad,
Here's the final draft, Dina's.
Thank you very much for your help.
Teaser: Trouble in Math? Then ask Dina at the lab to solve it!
The All-round Teacher: Dina
Have you noticed the variety of plants with their healthy leaves beside Room 4? For many years, Dina has taken care of them as carefully as she has her students’ progress.
Dina has long experience in teaching. While she was a university student, she worked as an instructor at a children’s camp. Inspired by the teaching activity, after graduating from university, she began pursuing her career in New Westminster School District, starting as a support staff in 1994.
After she had worked for SIGMA, Young Adult Program, for 6 years, Dina became a teacher at the PALC in 2003. “Working with adult students is interesting,” she said, “because they have experienced life.”
During summer break, Dina teaches summer school in the high school. The intensive course requires a change in classroom management and is a major adjustment for her. Doesn’t she feel it’s difficult? “Just different--I enjoy teaching,” she responded.
In the lab, Dina helps the students solve their problems in Math. Her one-on-one instruction has encouraged the self-paced students at all levels. “Practice and understand the basic concepts of Math.” she suggested in order to improve, “but the best is to ask for help.” She said that the students try too much by themselves. “Come and ask the teachers for help,” she advised.
This term, Dina has been teaching Social Studies 9 and 10 in the evening. As usual, her lessons start with a Brain Teaser, a visual puzzle. “Just have fun,” she explained, “but the main purpose is everybody focuses at the same starting point.” She said her students look happy learning new vocabulary and thinking. “They’re quite pleased.”
Dina’s classroom, Room 2, is amusing. She decorates it with colourful tags with review questions--“Who am I?” The exercises and resources can enjoyably lead her students to remember the previous lessons. Before her class begins, she also prepares several work sheets for the students such as, a map, a crossword, a vocabulary quiz and scrambled questions. “I try to make the review interesting,” she said, smiling.
About Dina
Graduated in Psychology and Biology at Simon Fraser University. She holds Bachelor of Arts and a Certificate in Liberal Arts. Afterward, she attended the Professional Development Program for a year at the same university.
Movie: Lord of the Rings Trilogy
Books: Harry Potter Series
Pastime: Gardening
Hobby: Keeping tropical fish. (She has 3 aquariums.)
(395 words)
Hi everyone
Thanks for helping my revision last week. The revised one was 553 words, so I omitted some sentences for this piece. Do I need to cut more?
An Active Canadian Teacher: Helen (the 3rd draft)
Oftentimes, Helen recommends her students not use an electronic bilingual dictionary in class. In her essay, “Throw Away that Translator!” she describes how to improve English based on her progress in Portuguese. Should we really stop using our translator? “If you can’t guess the meaning of a word, the translator could help,” she accepted the situation and advised, “but translating is not a way to learn language. Read, read and read—find something you enjoy reading instead.”
Learning Portuguese and volunteering in Brazil
Helen visited Brazil for the first time at 19. During her 6-month stay, she attracted to the country. “It’s amazing! The people are so friendly,” she said, “in order to know them and to stay, I had to speak Portuguese.”
She volunteered, teaching English to the local people. “Only the rich can learn English.” The school in the poor district didn’t have even a piece of chalk, so she called her family in Canada to send her materials such as, pencils papers and English books for beginners. Every time she visits, she prepares clothes, toys and stationery to donate to the children. The benefits, she said, are “Inner satisfaction and a passion for results. I have more attachment for the poor kids.”
Her business career
After graduating university, she worked for a government organization. Two years later, she changed her job to her own business, wholesale import jewellery from South Africa with her business partner for ten years. “Flexible time and schedule is the advantage,” she said, “but I’ve learned I’ll never have another business partner.”
Becoming a teacher—“This is what I want to do!”
The volunteer in Brazil had led her to become a teacher in Canada. After completing the program at university, she worked as a Teacher on Call, a substitute teacher for a year and half. “ I went everywhere and taught every single subject,” she said, “even Grade 1 and Japanese class.” Then she worked for the Adult Learning Centre at Columbia Square for two years; finally, she came to teach at the PALC in 2005, covering all subjects, including Accounting 11 and 12. “It’s a wonderful place! I’m learning from students—they’re eager to learn,” she said.
The editor of Pearson Patter
Last year, Helen voluntarily acted as the editor of the newsletter, Pearson Patter and helped showcase the students’ work. “Reading and compiling the wide range of topics is very interesting. I’ll be the editor for a second time,” she said.
About Helen
Born in Edmonton, Alberta. Graduated Simon Fraser University. She holds the Bachelor of Business Administration and Master of Economics. At university, she served as the president of the tennis club. Afterwards, she obtained the Bachelor of Education at University of British Columbia.
Language: English, French, Spanish, Portuguese
Movie: The Way We Were
Book: The Bridges of Madison County by Robert James Waller
Food: Chocolate and Coffee (“Brazil’s” is the best!)
Hobby: Playing tennis game, golf
Pastime: Travelling
(490 words including subheading)
Brad,
my revision of "From Forbidden Paradise to Public Resort" is below:
From Forbidden Paradise to Public Resort
Does a special recollection leave a favorable impression?
When Judy accompanied me in Taipei, we visited the former president’s mansion (Shihlinquadi). I have learned a practical lesson from this. I realized an interesting and ironic issue that the powerful prosperity only exists for a short period. I will tell you why.
One of the former president’s mansions, which was a paradise, was a place off limits to the public. People could only guess what it was like. After the president passed away and the power changed to the other party, his descendents could no longer keep the property. Now it has become accessible to the people. It is a popular resort and a lovely place for picture taking, especially for those who love nature.
The entrance to the garden path is flanked by lofty palms on both sides. The exultant feelings surged through me. The fancy landscape includes decorated trees, various flowers, and indoor plants that are breathtaking. For example, a big harp shaped area has been designed to grow small trees and vines, the beautiful rose garden occupies a large space, the various exotic orchids grow in the greenhouse, and the flower arrangements are displayed inside. This enchanting scenery overflows with people.
The garden reminded me of my childhood. I enjoyed the romantic landscape. While sitting on a bench under the big trees, Judy and I had so many recollections. Sometimes I couldn’t remember since we became friends 46 years ago. Among the aromatic roses and the colorful butterflies, I enjoyed this atmosphere, especially when the cool breeze passed along.
Before I couldn’t visit this forbidden place; now, after the powerful man is gone, it belongs to everyone. I am happy to have a recollection with my friend in this special paradise.
Parenting after separation.
Separated, now what?
So you’ve decided to end a relationship and there are children involved. You’re angry, sad, and confused. Hardly the time for clear-headed decision making. Whether your kids are at an age of understanding or not you’re going to have to be very careful with everything you say and do. It’s not just you separating from a partner. Your child’s entire life has just been turned upside down. Quite possibly they’re just as angry, sad, and confused as you are.
I love both of you.
Your child in the best of circumstances loves both of you equally. Your first instinct will be to trash talk your ex to your child/children. Don’t. The temptation will be almost uncontrollable. This message confuses the child. They’re torn and even more confused. Picture yourself trying to decide who the bad guy is between Mommy and Daddy. You need to reassure your child that you love them, Daddy loves them and that will never change. The child needs to hear that it’s ok for him/her to love you both and that he/she will be taken care of no matter what.
I am not a trophy.
This little boy or girl is a flesh and blood human being with feelings all their own. You and your ex cannot play tug-of-war. Set aside whatever personal feelings you have and decide amicably the best of living arrangements for your child. He/she is not a trophy. Ultimately you want the best for them. Even if the best place is not with you, you need to be honest with yourself for your children’s sake.
Honor the bond between parent and child.
The worst mistake you can make is to undermine the ties that bind parent and child. Yes you love your baby. So does your ex. Your child loves you both. Respect and encourage the relationship between them. Remember special days; Mom’s and Dad’s Days. Buy a card. Children learn what they live. Let’s teach them the right way as opposed to our way.
Hi Stacey
Wonderful! I'm impressed at your new article.
I feel your advice will encourage any single parent, giving precautions against a family issue.
Stacey,
I also like the article. Your boy is a lucky one.
And I’m waiting to see your “teacher’s profile”, too.
Hi Stacey,
I join to all your admireres of the last article. I have learn something too. Looking forward to seeing your new work.
Natalia
Beginning Romance
Romance is often a mystery, but in its pursuit you can find joy and make great memories. Keep an open mind, be attentive, and innovative as you explore the excitement of a new romance, or the fulfillment of renewing an old flame.
Prepare for Romance
If you are looking for romance, do just that. Observe romance found in Shakespeare or modern novels. Learn from the experiences of others.
Get to know your surroundings and pick places that have attractive scenery. Have a conversation with your interest before the date to help you pick the right activity. Is she the type of woman that likes dinner out, or is he the man who likes to take walks on the beach?
The Date
Once you’ve found the perfect place or activity for the date, it must still go smoothly.
Be a good listener, smile and answer any questions with a story of your own. Hopefully a little help from Shakespeare and the movies will have given you a keen eye for romance, and will allow you to have the conversation needed to form a connection.
Take it slow and get to know your date. Don’t pressure the person by revealing your secrets right away, make sure your conversation is appropriate. Keep past relationships in the past.
Avoid passing judgment
Keep an open mind as you explore romance, be it at home with a book or out with a date, and resist the urge to judge. Your mind could be bursting with ideas on how to fix a romance, but often times, a romance between people is inscrutable.
Tip for married folks: Is your wife upset after dinner while there’s hockey on? Try cleaning up the kitchen, putting the dishes away, and give the kitchen floor a once over, missing hockey to do so.
307 words, 3rd draft
Alright I think it's ready to go!
Sorry it was a little late, I've been working on my portfolio.
I'll see you all Thursday!
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