The Little Man In The Space Case by Aamena Khota.
I was born when Apartheid was nearing its end. I had not witnessed the wrong doings during Apartheid times because I was very small to understand what was happening. I only know South Africa as a democratic country. Thus, reading this book not only educates Joyce and Mariam, the two young girls who just found out about apartheid, but also others.
When reading the book one can imagine the story actually taking place. The setting of the story is relative to reality. It is the perfect setting for children's book. Joyce is eager to inform her friend Mariam, what she had discovered about our country's past. She learned about apartheid and how cruel it was. How it destroyed people's lives. She told Mariam about what had happened, how apartheid became weak and finally ended. Now we are a democratic country.
I found the book to be really interesting and exciting. I think that children will definitely enjoy it. I was really pleased with the writing style. Aamena wrote the book based on facts but at the same time made it mysterious and exciting for the young ones and easy for them to understand.
This is a very good book for children. For all the parents who wish to educate their children on apartheid, make them read the book.
Friday, October 26, 2007
Wednesday, October 17, 2007
Film Study
Film study was not for me a first time, however it was an improvement. My introduction to film study was with the animated movie Aladdin. At the time I learned about the different angles and camera shots. Also the colours in the movie played an extreamly important part especially because the movie was animated. The study of the movie was an excellent foundation to film study.
Kingdom of Heaven was very much different to Aladdin in the sense that it was more of a non-fiction movie whereas Aladdin was based on a fairytale. Both movies were based on an event or book and in that respect were similar. Kingdom of Heaven was a serious movie based on true history and therefore more fruitful and informative. Aladdin on the other hand was purly entertainment. The movie Kingdom of Heaven was aslo more realistic. The music, setting, use of colour, props used and costumed were excellent. The shots and angles created the effects perfectly. The movie itself kept you glued. In terms of acting, the characters played their roles exceptionally well. The role of Bailian was played very well aswell as the role of Salahuddin.
Film study this term forced me to read and go beyond my little brain. I also look at movies differently and more critically and sceptically. Film study is a wonderful part of English which I hope to do again.
Kingdom of Heaven was very much different to Aladdin in the sense that it was more of a non-fiction movie whereas Aladdin was based on a fairytale. Both movies were based on an event or book and in that respect were similar. Kingdom of Heaven was a serious movie based on true history and therefore more fruitful and informative. Aladdin on the other hand was purly entertainment. The movie Kingdom of Heaven was aslo more realistic. The music, setting, use of colour, props used and costumed were excellent. The shots and angles created the effects perfectly. The movie itself kept you glued. In terms of acting, the characters played their roles exceptionally well. The role of Bailian was played very well aswell as the role of Salahuddin.
Film study this term forced me to read and go beyond my little brain. I also look at movies differently and more critically and sceptically. Film study is a wonderful part of English which I hope to do again.
Tuesday, October 16, 2007
Preparing to teach a lesson.
The task of having to prepare a poetry lesson and teach it to another class is slightly scarey. The pressure, uneasiness and unfamiliarity are obstacles we need to overcome. However, our class together with Mr Sujee are learning how to conduct the lesson and will hopefully succeed. The task itself seems some how exciting.
Evaluation of Term3
Term three was a short term with the most amount of work covered. The study of Cry the Beloved Country was extensive but at the same time enjoyable. The plays and visits to the Shanty towns were an incredible experience. Our moral values were greatly improved. The most enjoyable aspect in the term, was for me, poetry study. The way we conducted learning the poems and how we related them to society was amazing. I also loved the dynamics used, sound and voice recordings. The troubles I had in the term were related to time management. Hopefully I will improve in that aspect. Overall the term went well although my stress levels increased.
Sunday, September 9, 2007
Plays, Models, Collages.
The assignment of the plays, models and collages was a very fun and enjoyable task. During this assignment we bonded well with our class mates and learnt many new things about each other. Also, our understanding of the novel Cry the Beloved Country was enhanced. The novel was made real to us through the models and plays. The groups who visited townships proved to us the realistic ness of our social societies and how it linked similarly to the shanty town in the novel. The groups performed well and put effort into their work. With the assignment we learnt many moral values. It taught us to appreciate what we have, our homes, families, facilities and every other little thing Allah has given us. We must be grateful for what we have for there are many who are much worse off than us.
Young Leader
When one says the word leadership, what are the first thoughts that come to mind? Thabo Mbeki? Mr Bapoo? Queen Elizabeth? It is strange how we associate the quality of leadership to people in power, this mainly being people of elder generations.
Let us ponder a moment on the idea that a man, Ismail Dinaat, was at the tender age of sixteen, the leader of the ANC Youth League. Yes, the leader of a major movement during the brutal days of apartheid.
We tend to focus our attention on leaders being government officials, army lieutenants and other big shot powers driven men and women. Very often turn a blind eye to true leaders, young leaders. What, you may ask, defines a true leader apart from leaders in power? More importantly, what defines leadership?
Leadership is not merely standing on a pulpit distributing authority and calling out commandments. Leadership is being able to stand on a pulpit, taking the first step and being able to win those who will follow. Leadership is a quality which every single person is born with, the true leader is the one who can lead, have those to follow and are able to achieve.
You may wonder how this description fits the “young leader.” The young leader is a nobody in the world during his young days. He/she is the one who will go out of their way to prove themselves. He/she does not know power, deceit and a puppet show. A true leader takes the first steps in his young days because all there is to see is achievement. These people strive with might to do something good and leave a legacy behind which would reflect in later days. People who we find as leaders today are power and greed driven. Money seems to be their language and self-gain is what drives them.
This is in contrary to what we see the young leader would do. We understand this when we look at Ismail Dinaat who was the leader not for himself but his people. We find many like these today, however we do not hear of them. If we look at our school, we find young leaders taking the first steps, starting campaigns and managing clubs. These young people are not self gaining. They have taken the first steps to make someone elses life better.
As the saying goes “Leaders aren’t born, but made.” Leadership is something the greatest men of all time had. The sahabahs and prophets were outstanding with this quality. They were young and prospered. You can too.
Let us ponder a moment on the idea that a man, Ismail Dinaat, was at the tender age of sixteen, the leader of the ANC Youth League. Yes, the leader of a major movement during the brutal days of apartheid.
We tend to focus our attention on leaders being government officials, army lieutenants and other big shot powers driven men and women. Very often turn a blind eye to true leaders, young leaders. What, you may ask, defines a true leader apart from leaders in power? More importantly, what defines leadership?
Leadership is not merely standing on a pulpit distributing authority and calling out commandments. Leadership is being able to stand on a pulpit, taking the first step and being able to win those who will follow. Leadership is a quality which every single person is born with, the true leader is the one who can lead, have those to follow and are able to achieve.
You may wonder how this description fits the “young leader.” The young leader is a nobody in the world during his young days. He/she is the one who will go out of their way to prove themselves. He/she does not know power, deceit and a puppet show. A true leader takes the first steps in his young days because all there is to see is achievement. These people strive with might to do something good and leave a legacy behind which would reflect in later days. People who we find as leaders today are power and greed driven. Money seems to be their language and self-gain is what drives them.
This is in contrary to what we see the young leader would do. We understand this when we look at Ismail Dinaat who was the leader not for himself but his people. We find many like these today, however we do not hear of them. If we look at our school, we find young leaders taking the first steps, starting campaigns and managing clubs. These young people are not self gaining. They have taken the first steps to make someone elses life better.
As the saying goes “Leaders aren’t born, but made.” Leadership is something the greatest men of all time had. The sahabahs and prophets were outstanding with this quality. They were young and prospered. You can too.
Friday, September 7, 2007
Evaluation-Audio Assignment
Evaluation-Audio Assignment
When we received the information that we would be recording an audio assignment, we thought the task was impossible and something out of this world. We had never received such an enormous task and more so, a task in which we had to pioneer our own voices in creating a news bulletin.
To our surprise, yet again, the task was completed with the most exciting feelings. We had accomplished in something totally new and different to us. The learning experience was great and the many techniques we learnt seemed to make the task worthwhile after all.
The use of technology in an assignment was for me the most enjoyable part. It made me more aware of the advancing world and how technology can make things more exciting. Also the use of different devices enhanced my knowledge regarding the use of technology.
The overall assignment was a success and it opened new doors to the potential which lives within.
When we received the information that we would be recording an audio assignment, we thought the task was impossible and something out of this world. We had never received such an enormous task and more so, a task in which we had to pioneer our own voices in creating a news bulletin.
To our surprise, yet again, the task was completed with the most exciting feelings. We had accomplished in something totally new and different to us. The learning experience was great and the many techniques we learnt seemed to make the task worthwhile after all.
The use of technology in an assignment was for me the most enjoyable part. It made me more aware of the advancing world and how technology can make things more exciting. Also the use of different devices enhanced my knowledge regarding the use of technology.
The overall assignment was a success and it opened new doors to the potential which lives within.
Sunday, August 26, 2007
Letter to the editor
P o Box 21483
Roshnee
1936
Vereeniging
25 August 26, 2007
The Editor
The Star
P O Box
Dear Sir
High crime rate in South Africa
I am writing this letter in regard to the high crime rate we are seeing in South Africa today.
I as a citizen of this country believe that the crime rate is at an uncontrollable and unacceptable high rate. In my own town and country I fear for my life, family and possessions. It is not a fear I feel alone but by those around me to. In my opinion my “right to life” and “safety and security” is in great danger and I can not reap the benefits of these rights.
Murders! Rape! Robbery! Hijacking! These are the only things I hear about on the radio and see in the newspapers on a daily basis. Not only do the media make aware the fact that we are living in a crime stricken country but also the fact, that people in my own street are affected by these crimes. Yes, crime takes place everywhere in the world but not at such a large scale and most definitely, as statistics show, every 17 seconds.
With the country developing and hosting the 2010 Soccer World Cup, crime rate statistics are far too high. From April 2006 unto March 2007 murder increased by 2.4% (19,202); home invasions up 25.4 % (12,761); hijackings up 6 % (13,599); business robbery up 6.5% (6,689); cash in-transit robbery up 21.9% (467); and bank robbery almost doubled (129). Rape reports have seen a decrease by 5.2% however 5700 cases were reported in Cape Town alone.
These are definitely ridiculous amounts and immediate action must take place! Is the crime rate at such a peak that we are forced to bring back the death penalty? If not, what other alternative are we left with? Government together with police is working tirelessly trying to crack down on this epidemic yet the results remain unchanged. Citizens are fed up with living imprisoned in their own land and have taken the law in their hands. Call it breaking the law but we are left with no better option and tomorrow I could a victim.
Yours Sincerely
Aamena Khota
statistics obtained from:
allafrica.com
news.bbc.co.uk
http://www.os.ac.gov/
The Star
The Sunday Times
Roshnee
1936
Vereeniging
25 August 26, 2007
The Editor
The Star
P O Box
Dear Sir
High crime rate in South Africa
I am writing this letter in regard to the high crime rate we are seeing in South Africa today.
I as a citizen of this country believe that the crime rate is at an uncontrollable and unacceptable high rate. In my own town and country I fear for my life, family and possessions. It is not a fear I feel alone but by those around me to. In my opinion my “right to life” and “safety and security” is in great danger and I can not reap the benefits of these rights.
Murders! Rape! Robbery! Hijacking! These are the only things I hear about on the radio and see in the newspapers on a daily basis. Not only do the media make aware the fact that we are living in a crime stricken country but also the fact, that people in my own street are affected by these crimes. Yes, crime takes place everywhere in the world but not at such a large scale and most definitely, as statistics show, every 17 seconds.
With the country developing and hosting the 2010 Soccer World Cup, crime rate statistics are far too high. From April 2006 unto March 2007 murder increased by 2.4% (19,202); home invasions up 25.4 % (12,761); hijackings up 6 % (13,599); business robbery up 6.5% (6,689); cash in-transit robbery up 21.9% (467); and bank robbery almost doubled (129). Rape reports have seen a decrease by 5.2% however 5700 cases were reported in Cape Town alone.
These are definitely ridiculous amounts and immediate action must take place! Is the crime rate at such a peak that we are forced to bring back the death penalty? If not, what other alternative are we left with? Government together with police is working tirelessly trying to crack down on this epidemic yet the results remain unchanged. Citizens are fed up with living imprisoned in their own land and have taken the law in their hands. Call it breaking the law but we are left with no better option and tomorrow I could a victim.
Yours Sincerely
Aamena Khota
statistics obtained from:
allafrica.com
news.bbc.co.uk
http://www.os.ac.gov/
The Star
The Sunday Times
Monday, August 13, 2007
Evaluation of Term1 and Term2
The year started with a blast and from day one we were kept on our toes in the English class. We were introduced to a new world of English and a totally different form of teaching. However, the highlight at the beginning of the year was most certainly meeting MR SUJEE. Yes, the English teacher we dreaded!!!
We were soon to learn that the supposedly "terrifying" man, was in reality our blessing. Personally I took a liking to Mr Sujee from day one. I came to realize that not only was I lucky to have Mr Sujee as my teacher, but also to have a teacher who would not rest until I proved to reach my potential.
On the other hand, I cannot conceal the fact, that in term one the work load did reach mountain peaks and at times I felt I was not going to cope. The adjustment was more than just steps but rather a leap, not only in English but other subjects too. On the more positive note, I would like to add that my study of William Shakespeare's "The Merchant of Venice", was definitely one of the most exciting learning experiences of my life. The skills we acquired, the intense work we covered and learning style of the novel was most challenging yet remarkable.
Term one and two passed being very challenging but also productive terms. I learnt that hard work and effort pay off at the end of the day. I've also come to believe that "excellence is not just an occasion but a habit."
We were soon to learn that the supposedly "terrifying" man, was in reality our blessing. Personally I took a liking to Mr Sujee from day one. I came to realize that not only was I lucky to have Mr Sujee as my teacher, but also to have a teacher who would not rest until I proved to reach my potential.
On the other hand, I cannot conceal the fact, that in term one the work load did reach mountain peaks and at times I felt I was not going to cope. The adjustment was more than just steps but rather a leap, not only in English but other subjects too. On the more positive note, I would like to add that my study of William Shakespeare's "The Merchant of Venice", was definitely one of the most exciting learning experiences of my life. The skills we acquired, the intense work we covered and learning style of the novel was most challenging yet remarkable.
Term one and two passed being very challenging but also productive terms. I learnt that hard work and effort pay off at the end of the day. I've also come to believe that "excellence is not just an occasion but a habit."
A drop of blood
It is 3’o clock in the morning…It is a dead street in Baghdad. The sound nobody likes to hear echoes in the distance. Sirens fill the dead silence. Without the need of a second warning, dim lights appear in the shelters across the street. Time is ticking and every second counts. They will arrive soon and any soul in sight stands no chance of survival. People bustle to gather their belongings and burry themselves beneath their trapdoors. The earth begins to vibrate as the monsters approach. The sound and smell of the caspers casts terror in everybody’s hearts. The tension in the air increases as well as the vibrations. In a matter of minutes, silence creeps again.
Standing beneath a broken shelter, are two young children. A brother of 7 and a sister of 5, still in their night clothes and dazed at the happenings of the early morning. A man gathering his last minute belongings notices the two aloof. He knows he must call them and shelter them or else their fate will be mortality. He screams at6 the top of his voice trying to signal the two to run across the road and to his shelter before the “insurgents” arrive. They are in eye distance and time is limited. The man dropping his belongings runs across the street to collect the children. He picks up the little girl, takes the hand of the boy and starts running…They are close, very close.
Without warning, without reason (bang bang bang, dhoof dhoof dhoof) is heard. Shrill screams of pain and drops of blood of two innocent children touch the soil…the man lays unconscious. Soon, chaos breaks out in the dead street but nothing can be done about the pool of blood in which two young lives rest.
“16 people killed and 70 wounded in an insurgent attack”, reads across all the media. However, no mention is made of the injustice of these killings, rather an excuse for them. Does it not move you to know that while you laugh and play and while your baby brother or sister enjoys the taste of an ice-cream, two innocent young children have become victims of a brutal killing? Are you not angered to know that blood was spilt of two young children on their own soil?
You and I take for granted the luxury we have and too often forget the sufferings of the one’s who will share our future. These are children being killed. Children like you and I. One in every eight Iraqi children die before their 5th birthdays due to violence or related issues such as lack of food, clothes, shelter or family. (Point in essence)
Whether these killings are being carried out by insurgents, occupiers or freedom fighters the result remains unchanged in the end. Death after death, child after child. Why are the cries of these children not heard! Why are we sitting back and watching this happen. Our futures stand dented by the loss of these innocent lives.
Take a stand now! We are all, as children, part of this war, whether accept it or not and in time it will affect us all, sitting here in our safe, comfortable classrooms or in a war stricken Iraq. Fight against this TODAY, for every minute we waste, is another child’s blood in the soil.
By: Aamena Khota
Standing beneath a broken shelter, are two young children. A brother of 7 and a sister of 5, still in their night clothes and dazed at the happenings of the early morning. A man gathering his last minute belongings notices the two aloof. He knows he must call them and shelter them or else their fate will be mortality. He screams at6 the top of his voice trying to signal the two to run across the road and to his shelter before the “insurgents” arrive. They are in eye distance and time is limited. The man dropping his belongings runs across the street to collect the children. He picks up the little girl, takes the hand of the boy and starts running…They are close, very close.
Without warning, without reason (bang bang bang, dhoof dhoof dhoof) is heard. Shrill screams of pain and drops of blood of two innocent children touch the soil…the man lays unconscious. Soon, chaos breaks out in the dead street but nothing can be done about the pool of blood in which two young lives rest.
“16 people killed and 70 wounded in an insurgent attack”, reads across all the media. However, no mention is made of the injustice of these killings, rather an excuse for them. Does it not move you to know that while you laugh and play and while your baby brother or sister enjoys the taste of an ice-cream, two innocent young children have become victims of a brutal killing? Are you not angered to know that blood was spilt of two young children on their own soil?
You and I take for granted the luxury we have and too often forget the sufferings of the one’s who will share our future. These are children being killed. Children like you and I. One in every eight Iraqi children die before their 5th birthdays due to violence or related issues such as lack of food, clothes, shelter or family. (Point in essence)
Whether these killings are being carried out by insurgents, occupiers or freedom fighters the result remains unchanged in the end. Death after death, child after child. Why are the cries of these children not heard! Why are we sitting back and watching this happen. Our futures stand dented by the loss of these innocent lives.
Take a stand now! We are all, as children, part of this war, whether accept it or not and in time it will affect us all, sitting here in our safe, comfortable classrooms or in a war stricken Iraq. Fight against this TODAY, for every minute we waste, is another child’s blood in the soil.
By: Aamena Khota
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