School in the US was lots of fun

 > What did I say? So here is the first reply… read on…

 

From TODAY, Voices

Monday January 5, 2009

 

When life gives you lemons

• Make lemonade •

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Letter from Loh Sheng Hng

 

I REFER to “School’s no fun” (Jan 2).

 

As my father was on a job attachment in Arizona, I had the privilege of experiencing American education for almost two-and-a-half years. In Singapore, there are tests, followed by exams and in the end, your conduct — good and bad — is written in your report book or testimonial.

 

In my school in America, projects are discussed daily. Rather than giving a grade, teachers encourage students to improve on their own basis. Students are also allowed their own space for initiative and imagination.

 

Parents play an important role in American education. Teachers have friendly contact with them and they frequently volunteer to teach things that contribute to the overall holistic development of students. My mother helped out in such an event. She came to my school and taught basic Chinese numerals to the American students. All of us enjoyed it.

 

A friendly teacher-to-student relationship is also maintained. Teachers write little notes of thanks and welcomes when you give them a gift or join their classes. These convey sincerity and mean a lot to the students.

 

Field trips to places also make up a significant component of the student’s time in school. Students learn by using their five senses, such as by touching the plant, smelling the flower, tasting the fruit, hearing the birds and seeing the beauty of nature.

 

In Mathematics class, fractions are taught by using chocolate bars, which add a sense of fun to the class.

 

In the Singapore context, students study with textbooks or worksheets. But I feel that the Singapore education is becoming more open-minded, giving more space for a student’s independent learning, which will be beneficial in years to come.

 

The writer is a 13-year-old student at Hwa Chong Institution.