Spring - August 2018 by Jap Imperio

The English Newsletter of YPICA Lee Lim Ming College

August 2018

Mr Tsoi’s PETs on:

INSIDE

Gym Volume 3, Issue 2

August 2018

2 Teacher’s PETs Thinking of hitting the gym this summer? Spring Spies Our recruits sound off on social media. 3 Travel: An Evening in Enping The English and Sports Cultural Interflow. 4 Glitz, Glamour and Golden Angels Rolling out the red carpet on English Day. 5 Zooming in on the Craft Filmmaking is not that easy! 6 Challenges in Learning English Speak it to learn it. 7 Defining Cool What does it mean to ‘be cool’? New Kids on the Floor Floorball is our new sport obsession! 8 Facing a New Chapter An exclusive interview with our principal. 9 Bookmarked Quotes Wise words from our Principal, Miss Tang. 10 Parade of Festivals Cultural Day gets festive! 11 Unity Within Reach The first Cultural Night had a great start! 12 Thanks for the Memories Grateful hearts on Speech Day. 13 One Night and One More Time Feeling fancy at the graduation party. 14 Spotlight: Finally Looking Up Our HKDSE passers share their plans. 15 Culture: Into the Fast Lane Know why your Muslim friends fast. 16 Excellenct Academic Performance 17 Awards List 18 Highlights

During the height of the 2018 World Cup, social media was abuzz with football photos and memes. We’ve gathered the best opinions from our students. The question was: “Which FIFA World Cup 2018 football team is the best? Why?”

Routines

The summer heat is beating on everyone’s head these days and while outdoor activities like swimming or jogging are fun, sometimes we need time off from the sun. Another way to spend your summer days is working out at the gym. It is where you can stay in shape when you don’t want to get baked this summer.This edition of Teacher’s Professional Expert Tips comes from For Chest Workout: (4 sets 10RM) Incline Press YPICA’s resident hunk, Mr Steven Dumbell Bench Press Tsoi. Dumbell Pullover Body building is popular nowadays. Standing Cable Flyes Before you go to gym centres, you For Arm Workout: (4 sets 8RM) should know your purpose for going Standing Dumbbell Curl to the gym. Is it for enhancing muscle mass or for improvement of the sports Hammer Curl Tricep Dips performance? Is it for health? As a Tricep Cable Pushdown basketball player, I would like to share some tips for you if you want to For Back Workout: (4 sets 10RM) improve performance in the sport. For starters, let’s discuss Repetition Deadlift Pull Up Maximum (RM). One maximum Pull Down repetition (1 RM) is used to indicate Close Grip Row the most weight you can lift for one repetition. This is an important For Leg Workout: (4 sets 12RM) indicator to reflect the intensity of your workout. I always set 8RM for my Leg Press Squats workout. Each person is different so Leg Curls remember to set a safe limit for yourself especially if you are a beginner. Leg Extensions When I go to the gym, I don’t lift Do not forget to do warm up and cool down random weights or hop from one machine to the next.You need to plan exercises! out your workout and focus on a specific muscle group at a time so that The advantages of having strong muscles are you don’t stress out your entire body. not only for enhancing sports performance but also for avoiding muscle injuries. Remember Here is my usual routine for different that exercise alone is not a guarantee. Proper body parts. Again, these are my diet and a positive attitude help in the suggestions and since you know your development of a healthy lifestyle. body more, always try these with caution and if possible, consult a For more details and guidance, feel free to professional before you attempt the approach Mr Tsoi during his free time. workout.

An Evening

TRAVEL

in Enping O

ne of the most meaningful activities our school has organised in recent years is the Cultural Interflow between YPICA Lee Lim Ming College and our sister school Enping Number 1 Middle School in Enping, China. It is during this trip that our students get to experience school life in the mainland and get the chance to learn from their new friends. For this school year, the focus is on English-learning and sports. Our students, led by Miss Clara and Miss Angela, have prepared a language exchange activity wherein students from Enping can learn English through songs. Mr Thomas Lee helped prepare the songs which our students had practised in advance. The highlight of the activity was the singing of the theme from the movie Titanic, “My Heart Will Go On”. Meanwhile, our sports teams also had their fun as they battled it out

with the Enping teams. Mr Tsui rallied our players at the court but the home team proved to be a force to reckon with in basketball. Fortunately, our strong football team secured the championship trophy and restored our pride before the day ended. Our host’s students retreated to their quarters for dinner and some prepared for the evening gala. Dubbed “An English Evening”, the event seeks to provide a grand stage for Enping Number 1 Middle School’s brightest and most talented students. YPICA had a spot reserved in the programme for our humble presentations—choral speaking and singing performances. However, the real stars of the show were our sister school friends who prepared jaw-dropping performances that were even more

fantastic to watch with laser lights and the surround sound system. The YPICA delegates returned to the hotel in high spirits after the fruitful activities. Surely we have imparted some knowledge to the students in Enping but we have also learned so many things from them. Their graciousness as hosts can be seen in their welcoming smiles and casual generosity. The students are well-disciplined and have remained down-to-earth despite being pampered with high-end facilities to enrich their learning. Finally, their eagerness to learn from our students is an admirable quality that YPICA students can adopt. During the show, our representatives, together with our Principal, Miss Tang, sang the Titanic song again in front of thousands of Enping Middle School students. It was a heart-warming experience maybe because of the mood of the evening but listening to the song’s lyrics, it seemed as if the performance was more of a promise—that the friendships formed during our trip to Enping remain in our hearts and will go on and on.

Scan the QR Code for More Photos Photos Topmost: YPICA Students, Enping Middle School students and Miss Angela take a closer look at the lyrics of “My Heart Will Go On”. Photos Above: Basketball and Football matches pumped up adrenaline for both teams and so the remarkable performances during English Evening helped students unwind.

ENGLISH DAY

Glitz, Glamour and Golden Angels L

ast year’s English Day proved that we have a number of talented filmmakers in our school. Our foray into music video production has given us unforgettable moments so this year, the English Society decided to up the ante by hosting the school’s first micro-film competition. The good news is that the best entries from our school will be sent to a Hong Kong-wide interschool filmmaking competition. Each class was tasked to make a short film based on a particular idiom that they have chosen. The story should focus on the lifestyle differences between Hong Kongers and Europeans. The results were commendable as each entry showed a thoughtful interpretation of their chosen idiom. There were enough outstanding films to give our guest judge, Mr Bruno Gomes, a headache. The golden angel trophies reappeared this year on English Day and were given to the most deserving winners. 2B’s “Punctual as an Englishman” and 4B’s “Through Thick and Thin” won the Junior and Senior Prizes for Best Video, respectively. Our Principal, Ms Tang, together with our teachers, looked glamorous as they presented the awards to the winners. The teachers were in on the fun, too and surprised the audience with their own short films. In each video clip, the teachers literally acted out the meaning of an idiom. Students were then asked to guess the idiom depicted in the short clip. Applause and laughter filled the school hall as another wonderful experience is added to the English Day memory bank. Although the afternoon was filled with glitz and glamour, the underlying themes shined brightest. Self-discovery, family tradition and friendship are just few of the takeaways from this year’s event. Photos Above: Ms Angela and Mr Bruno announcing the winners. Ms Clara presenting a prize for Guess the Idiom contest. Principal Ms Tang with some of the winners in The Lee Awards held during English Day. Left and Below: Winners accept their awards and give speeches. Principal Ms Tang together with the participants and teachers in The Lee Awards.

Zooming In on the Craft I

t may seem obvious that nowadays, virtually anybody can be a filmmaker because almost everyone has access to a smart phone. However, there is more to filmmaking than simply pressing the record button on your phone’s camera. Telling a story using moving images is not as simple as it sounds. That is why it took months for our student filmmakers to finish their short films. They had to start from the very beginning—writing a script. The scriptwriters faced the task of writing a story revolving around the differences between the daily lives of people in Hong Kong and in Europe and they had to select an idiom to drive the plot. There were stories about a tourist, exchange students,immigrants and even teenagers discovering online dating. Right from the start, the creativity of our students was undeniable. It was up to the directors then to deliver the story from script to screen. Shooting was not easy either. Actors and directors found it hard to find the time when they were all free to shoot a scene. Factor in the weather and the availability of the location or equipment that were needed and they’ve got a recipe for migraine. Nevertheless, our student filmmakers were able to gather their necessary shots. Some made use of the chroma effect or green screen to help fill in the scenes that supposedly take place in Europe while others shot different angles from a single location, saving them time.

Finally, the process of piecing together the shots began as our student filmmakers edited their video. Thanks to modern technology, basic editing software can be downloaded for free and used on a mobile phone. Still, it would take hours or even days to sort through one’s footage and compile them neatly in a comprehensible timeline. “Editing the video is hard because you need to be precise and cut it at the right moment. You need to have a lot of patience to edit,” Richard (5A) shared. Interest in filmmaking is growing in YPICA so perhaps it is time to provide our students with the proper tools and knowledge in the craft. Soon, our stories will not only be seen and heard within our school but also around the world. But let’s begin here in Hong Kong where 4B’s “Through Thick and Thin” has already been nominated for three awards in the inter-school competition—Best Direction (Sohaib, Sriya, Russ and Haider), Best Ensemble Performance (whole cast) and Best Solo Performance (Metsu). This single activity touched on many developmental aspects of learning as our students tackled writing, reading, planning, acting, shooting, directing, and organising, all the while requiring little to no supervision. Clearly, filmmaking is a craft that requires creativity, skills, and resourcefulness resulting to more involved, inspired and responsible students.

Photo Above: Two of the directors of “Through Thick and Thin”, Sohaib and Haider (4B), plan out a scene before taking a shot with their actors Metsu and Samrat (seen below).

Photos Above: Stills from some of the entries (from left) “The Front Runner” (5B), “The Whole Nine Yards” (5A) and “Through Thick and Thin” (4B)

FEATURE STORIES

internet or ask our teachers like Miss Angela for help,” suggested Jennifer. Miss Angela, our Native English Teacher (NET), observed that most Chinese students struggle in the English lesson either because they lack vocabulary or because they are shy to speak up and afraid to fail. The good thing is that some students make an effort to improve in the language. “They seem eager to communicate and thus improve their English language skills a lot more when making small talk with the NET, TAs or with their non-Chinese schoolmates or when participating in school activities together with their non-Chinese schoolmates,” Miss Angela said in an interview. “A good example of this is 4A Michael who started F1 with very low proficiency in English and could say little more to me than the morning greeting “Good morning. Wow. Beautiful,” Miss Angela continued adding that Michael has an interest in Sports and loves to make friends, regardless of their background. So, he has been playing sports in his free time with non-Chinese students and this has helped him be more communicative and learn more vocabulary, therefore improving his listening and speaking skills. Chinese students have been exposed to English in the same number of years as non-Chinese students. They all have been learning it since primary school. Almost all of Chinese and non-Chinese students do not speak English at home. So, with the same learning opportunities in the classroom, is it Photo Above: Ka Ki (4A), Kelvin (1A) and Jennifer (1A) are ready to face the challenges in safe to assume that everyone should generally learning English. be at the same level of proficiency? Proficiency in the language comes from daily use and Miss Tang has the right reason for imposing the three-language rule. However, the non-Chinese students benefit students usually default to English so that from it the most because not only do they get they can continue to communicate with one to practice English, they also get to practice another. However, for Chinese students, such Cantonese or Putonghua. reminder to speak in English only applies in Miss Tang herself reminded Jennifer and English classes or the few times they come Kelvin—“The two of you should speak across an English teacher in the hallway. In English when you are in school and talk to other words, non-Chinese students have your non-Chinese schoolmates.” more opportunities to improve their English Miss Angela believes that using English through casual conversation when compared more is the key to mastering it. “Don’t be to Chinese students. afraid of making mistakes. A language can The two new Chinese students in Form 1A, only be learnt by speaking. So, make friends Jennifer and Kelvin, have expressed and speak to them in English,” she advised willingness in learning English. “I am saying that students should not care about interested to learn. I think I have improved their accent or grammar mistakes and instead my English this year,” Kelvin said adding that focus on things that they enjoy like listening he knows that English is important in school to English songs while understanding the and at work in the future. lyrics or watching English movies without the Ka Ki (4A) believes that English is subtitles. important, too. “I need to pass my English test The challenge then is for Chinese students in HKDSE,” Ka Ki said when asked why she to treat Cantonese or Putonghua as their studied and practised the language. mother tongue and make an effort to speak “Practice makes perfect,” as the saying English when they are in school if they want goes, so using English in conversation with to improve their English language skills. For non-Chinese friends or schoolmates can help. Jennifer, Kelvin and Ka Ki, that challenge has “We can read English books, learn from the already been accepted.

Challenges in Learning English

PICA Lee Lim Ming College has a three-language policy. Students are expected to speak in any of these three languages—Cantonese, Putonghua or English. Non-Chinese students are the major offenders of this rule because they often revert to their mother tongue when talking to friends. Chinese students can get away with speaking in their mother tongue because it is either Cantonese or Putonghua but does it help them get better at learning a new language? Our principal, Miss Tang, recently reminded students in an interview with Spring that the three-language rule was imposed so that students may learn the three languages that will help them in their future careers. “You are already good at your mother tongue because you practise it every day at home but when you come to school, you should also practise the three languages,” Miss Tang elaborated. When students are in their free time and they find themselves in a mixed group or when a teacher reminds them to stop speaking in their own language, non-Chinese

Def ining S

tudents learning English not only learn about grammar and sentence structures, they also learn new words and grow their vocabulary. Part of a growing vocabulary is incorporating slang in casual or informal conversation. One of the most enduring slang words in the English language and one that is among the first slang words that any young learner uses is the word “cool”. “Cool” is always cool, it does not get old and it can mean several things like “yes” or “great”. It can also help to express certain emotions like “I’m cool,” to mean that you’re okay with it or “not cool,” to mean that you disagree. However, for most situations, we use “cool” to describe something that is considered desirable. A stylish pair of rubber shoes perhaps or the latest sunglasses or possibly the newest flagship smart phone may all be called “cool”. All those are well and good but the problem comes when previously undesirable things or behaviour are now labelled as “cool”. Some teenagers, for example, would say that smoking is “cool” or that drinking alcohol is “cool” when both are considered bad habits and thus, undesirable.

NEW KIDS O N

T H E

FLOOR

So, how do we define “cool”, then? Who started it anyway? A quick Google search can help trace the origin of “cool” to as far back as the early 1940s to a time when Jazz music was enjoying popularity. Jazz was lively with most of the tunes improvised or done on the spot and people would often dance to it. It was known as “hot jazz”. Later on, a new kind of jazz emerged as people wanted a more relaxing experience. With the soothing sounds of the saxophone filling in for the bass and drums, this new variety came to be known as “cool jazz” and one particular saxophone player, Lester “Pres” Young, helped to popularize the word during his live shows. He would say “That’s cool,” or “It’s cool,” or simply, “Cool!” “Cool” has, since then, become the word to describe something desirable, usually something pleasing. Because it evolved from the music world, it is only right that “cool” be also used to describe admirable persons who have talents in the arts.

PICA Lee Lim Ming College has always been at the forefront of emerging sports in Hong Kong. Ten years ago, we were one of the pioneering schools to join the Hong Kong Academy of Ice Hockey’s Hong Kong School Ice Hockey League. Today, we continue to be one of the top ice hockey teams to beat in Hong Kong. Since then, our resident sports expert, Mr Fu, has introduced several new sporting events like archery, billiards, darts, and floor curling. Most recently, a new yet familiar sport has been announced—floorball. Compared to other sports like basketball, first played in the 1890s, or football that goes as far back as the 1500s, floorball is a relatively new sport that was first played in Michigan Lake in the 1960s. However, it was not until the early 1980s when its rules were formally established. The sport is similar to ice hockey but instead of the ice rink, it is played on the playground. The Floorball Federation of Hong Kong was founded in 2016 and our school is one of the first teams to join this exciting sporting event. “As far as I know, our school is the

Today, it’s perfectly fine to use “cool” to describe the latest fashion trends or the hippest places to visit. More appropriately, “cool” can be used to describe people who have positive qualities. Cool is when you join competitions to improve your talents. Cool is when you help your classmates learn better. Cool is when you listen to your friend’s problems. Cool is when you aim to be the best student that you can be. What we should avoid is using “cool” to describe bad habits like smoking, drinking or taking drugs, or performing silly stunts or pranks that can be dangerous to yourself or others because these are all undesirable and definitely uncool. only school with a floorball team in the New Territories. We only have ten players this year but we have a strong team. Most of our players are from Form 1 so there is still a lot of time to train them and improve their skills in floorball,” Mr Fu said in an interview with Spring. He noted that the boys in our team had never played this sport before so it was very surprising when we won in the Federation’s championship league. Next year, Mr Fu wants to recruit more players especially those who have played ice hockey before but everyone is welcome to join the floorball team and to help lead our school to more victories in the future.

COVER STORY

FACING A NEW CHAPTER By Asif, Harris, Kelvin, Suchita, Venice, Ribeeca and Jennifer

he students waited nervously inside the Managers’ Room. It would be their first time to hold an interview and it was not an ordinary interview because they were about to ask the principal of the school some questions. However, when said principal, Miss Tang, finally entered the room, her smile seemed to put the students at ease. Her vibrant pink-orange outfit echoed the mood of the day, all would be well. We face big changes in our lives every now and then. For Miss Tang, it is her retirement from 23 years of leadership as the principal of YPICA Lee Lim Ming College. Because of this, the school’s newly-appointed media team—Asif (1B), Harris (1B), Kelvin (1A), Suchita (1B), Venice (1B), Ribeeca (1B) and Jennifer (1A)—decided to have a conversation with Miss Tang to listen to her stories and find out how she would face the new chapters in her life.

“ 8

In life, when we face difficulties, we need to learn how to adapt and change our attitude when the situation or the environment is different.

”

Harris: In your 23 years as principal, how would you compare students now from students two decades ago? Miss Tang: Students now have a very big advantage because of technology. They are taught better and they can use the technology to learn more. Also, I find that students now are ready to learn about different cultures.

Ribeeca: What are some of your unforgettable experiences as principal in our school? Miss Tang: I remember we brought Form 1 and Form 2 students to a military training camp in Shenzhen ten years ago. The students experienced the daily routine in the camp—they needed to stand in attention, eat on short chairs and tables, sleep on hard wooden beds and follow orders. I can’t forget it because I noticed that at first the students were having a hard time but Asif: Do you remember your first day they quickly adapted to the situation. In as principal 23 years ago? Were you life, when we face difficulties, we need nervous? to learn how to adapt and change our Miss Tang: I was not nervous because attitude when the situation or the I had at least two months to prepare. environment is different. When they When we do anything, we must prepare. returned home, the students appreciated Before I worked in YPICA, I had had 14 what they had with their family. Another years experience as a teacher including unforgettable experience was about ten two years as a vice-principal so I was years ago when our students first played ready. In the two months before the ice hockey. I was very happy to see my school opened for the new school year, sons and daughters skating in the rink I read all the documents and met with and playing ice hockey. It was really teachers to plan out our year. I’d found good. The first Cultural Day also comes that the school had already had a good to mind. The students wore their national system in place. So, I decided to continue costumes to school and seeing all the the system and focus on areas in the beautiful clothes for the first time was system that needed improvement very unforgettable. because the aim was to provide good education to students. Venice: Do you have any regrets in your 23 years as principal? Asif: Did you face difficulties as a young, Miss Tang: We spend a lot of time in woman principal? planning different activities but I regret Miss Tang: I was 36 years old back then that sometimes only a few students so yes, it was a young age for a principal. would join the activity. So, we analyze the However, the role of a principal can be situation, learn more about what kind of handled by either a man or a woman. activities students want and rearrange Both are capable. Of course, there were our plan. We try to find different some difficulties but I was lucky because alternative activities to keep students the teachers, staff, and other workers interested. were very supportive. My vast experience in different fields in education prepared Kelvin: Was it a difficult task to transition me to face the challenges. However, from a Chinese school to an international there were still some areas I needed to school? learn like managing the school accounts. Miss Tang: All of these difficulties can be So, I tried to learn by asking the overcome by good planning. I had to accountants and they explained explain to our Chinese students and everything to me very clearly. After a parents about our plan to welcome month, I was able to understand the non-Chinese students. We prepared for accounts of the school. one school year and I talked to each class where I explained to them what to

BOOKMARKED

QUOTES expect in the coming year. I also answered their questions or concerns. The students chatted with Miss Tang for a solid hour and they certainly got to know her better. “I think after this interview, we all got to know more about Miss Tang’s life and her personal feelings,” shared Suchita. They walked away armed with life lessons from a very wise woman. Harris, for example, learned that we should always think positive and never give up on our dreams. Suchita agreed that being positive and happy are important things that Miss Tang shared. “She also told us to do the right things at the right time and to learn to balance our time,” Suchita added. As the interview ended, the students were naturally curious of how our dear principal will spend her time after retirement. “I’m looking forward to my family reunion. I have been working hard and have dedicated time and energy to our YPICA family so now I want to spend more time with my son, husband and

“

parents,” Miss Tang shared adding that she plans to tour around and to relax. Learning new languages is also in the books and she joked that the first new language that she needs to learn is baby language as she might soon be a grandmother. When asked about what the future might have in store for our school, Miss Tang was optimistic. “Our school will continue to be an international school and as long as all the students from different nationalities participate in school programs and activities, YPICA will continue to be a happy school,” the principal explained. Miss Tang will soon face a new chapter in her life, one that is apart from YPICA Lee Lim Ming College but what she has imparted to our school remains valuable as YPICA also faces a new chapter. “As a mother to our students, I have shown them love and care through the years. My wish is for students to continue showing love, care and consideration to one another,” Miss Tang said reminding that we can work together towards success.

As a mother to our students, I have shown them love and care through the years. My wish is for students to continue showing love, care and consideration to one another.

”

During the interview with Miss Tang, not only did she answer the questions but she also offered some sage advice that might come in handy during those trying times. We’ve bookmarked some of our favourites so that you can easily find them as you venture into your life story’s new chapters. “Try your best in everything. Try your best at home to follow your parents. Try your best in school with your studies. Try your best in sports. We have different roles to play, you are a student, son, grandson –so try your best no matter what role you play.” --“Treasure the things you have now. Treasure your health and your youth. When you are young, you always have good news but it’s not the same as you grow older.” --“Always be optimistic and have positive thinking. Have a positive mind. Don’t feel sad. Know that there is a solution to every problem. Have some objectives in your life. In Form 1, your objective may be to enter university. Try your best to reach that objective. When you reach your objective, think of a new one and continue to succeed.” --“Wear a smile on your face.” --“Remember the ruler I gave you? It is to remind you to measure your life once in a while. Ask yourself if you have measured up to the best version of yourself.”

CULTURAL DAY AND CULTURAL NIGHT

PARADE OF FESTIVALS

Photos Left and Below: Our Principal, Ms Tang, teachers and students dressed up in their national costumes for Cultural Day.

estivals are sources of pride and joy to people regardless of cultural background. During festivals, we get to experience the different customs and traditions of a particular nationality. Here in YPICA, we have more than a dozen different nationalities and each one is unique in its celebration of their culture. On Cultural Day, held last 20 April 2018, we had the opportunity to witness a preview of four cultural events in our Parade of Festivals. Chinese New Year Hong Kong and China celebrate the Chinese New Year within the first quarter of the year. Although there is no specific date, the tradition remains the same. People usually wear red for good luck and even decorate their homes with red paper designs or Chinese calligraphic art. The elders give out red packets and the whole family share a hearty feast. In the streets, people are out shopping while lion dancers perform for crowds gathered in street corners or inside malls. One of the highlights would be the fireworks display. In Hong Kong, expect Victoria Harbour to be packed with people eager to bring in the new year with colourful flashes of light and a big bang for prosperity. Tihar This Nepali festival is a five-day-long celebration observed by Hindus and is also known as the festival of lights. During tihar, diyas or oil lamps are lit in houses at night to make it illuminate. Coloured rice and flower petals are used to decorate entrances of houses or establishments to welcome the goddess Laxmi. Tihar also honours the relationship of humans and animals particularly the crow, cow and dog. Perhaps the most notable part of the festival is Bhai Tika wherein sisters apply tika on the foreheads of their brothers for good luck. They follow a ritual called puja. After the sisters perform the ritual, the brothers take their turn to do the same to their sisters to ensure a long and healthy life in the family. Flores de Mayo The Flowers of May or Flores de Mayo is popular among the predominantly Catholic people in the Philippines. This month-long celebration ends with the Santacruzan, a festive parade of colourful floral floats and beautiful ladies. The tradition honours the efforts of Saint Helena, Empress of the Roman Empire, in locating the “true cross” of Jesus Christ. Thus, in the Santacruzan, a community celebrating Flores de Mayo usually elects a young lady to be called “Reyna Elena” or Queen Helena during the parade. People flock to the streets to see the stylish gowns of the queens walking under their elaborate and creative mobile canopies.

Eid ul-Fitr Muslims all around the world celebrate this festival right after Ramadan or the Islamic holy month of fasting. Because it is one of their major celebrations, Muslims usually gather for prayer before having a big meal with their families. It is common to give gifts especially to children. People also enjoy wearing new clothes during this festival. It is customary to greet each other “Eid Mubarak” to wish family, friends and even strangers a happy festival. Another important thing that people do on Eid is giving “zakat” or charity to the needy. In this way, everyone gets to enjoy the festival. There are so many things we can learn from our friend’s and schoolmate’s culture through their festivals. Hopefully, in future celebrations of our Cultural Day, we may be able to feature more of these interesting and wonderful traditions because no matter which nationality we belong to, we are all the same in our search for joy and the need to share feelings of happiness to one another.

Photos Below: The Festival Parade featured Flores de Mayo, Eid ul-Fitr, Tihar and Chinese New Year.

Scan the QR Code for More Photos

UNITY WITHIN REACH Photos Below: A variety of performances plus the search for the Cultural Regent kept the audience entertained.

or the first time ever, YPICA Lee Lim Ming College celebrated Cultural Night right after Cultural Day. This extension of the usual Cultural Day event was especially organised with the parents in mind because they, too are part of our diverse YPICA family. As parents and their families arrived in their stunning national costumes, they were invited to dip their hands in multi-colour paint and stamp their handprint on our community board as a symbolic gesture of the theme “Unity Within Reach”. The night unfolded with amazing performances from students and an inspiring display of wit from our Cultural Regents. Rose (3B) and Harris (1B) were chosen as regents and will represent the school as our student spokespersons. Guests enjoyed some snacks as they watched the show and some even won in the lucky draw. Special awards were also given to families who wore national costumes or participated in the family photo competition. Before the night ended, our Principal, Miss Tang, reminded everyone that unity is never far from us. All we have to do is reach out to one another regardless of our nationality or cultural background. The day was long for the students, teachers and staff involved in the Cultural Day and Night. However, one long day in celebration of our diverse communities in school was worth it because together we, as a united team, brought a memorable experience to our students’ families. Photos Below: Our Principal, Ms Tang, welcomed parents and their families to a fun-filled Cultural Night.

Scan the QR Code for More Photos

SPEECH DAY

THANKS FOR THE

Memories S

ix years is enough time to gather long-lasting memories. Memories like the first day in secondary school, the out-of-town study tours, fun field trips, the exciting sports competitions, astonishing performances, or the challenging exams will always be remembered. The 28th Speech Day of YPICA Lee Lim Ming College, held on 18 May 2018, celebrated the graduation of almost 50 students from Form 6. There is no doubt that every graduate has a vault of memories that they will keep with them for a long time. Sita Thapa (6B) shared some of her memories when she delivered her speech. “I will always remember our trip to Shanghai. We had so much fun and it was nice to be in a different city with your friends,” she recalled as she thanked her teachers during the ceremony. YPICA Principal, Miss Tang, in her last Speech Day address as principal of this school, spoke about her journey and the 23 years she devoted to YPICA’s big family. Miss Tang reminded the graduates to work hard and try their best in whatever field they might choose. All of these graduates will move on to pursue different paths and will have to make room for more memories. For now, everyone is thankful that students, teachers, and the principal will be remembered as part of the success that our graduates achieved on Speech Day.

Scan the QR Code for More Photos

GRADUATION DINNER PARTY

One Night and One More Time

he Graduation Dinner Party is an annual tradition for the graduating class. It is one of the most anticipated events in YPICA especially for teachers who are eager to see the students they have taught for six years for once wearing the fanciest evening wear they could find. The students did not disappoint because each one stepped into the ballroom as if they got off of the red carpet. For one night, everyone is gathered in one room and to celebrate the fact that the Form 6 students have finished secondary school and will soon start the next

stage of their lives. Some have started working, some have decided to study further and all are worried if they have made the right decision. For one night, though, those worries will be put aside so that everyone can have fun. Wacky games, exciting lucky draw and hilarious music videos entertained the dinner guests who laughed in between bites of the most delectable selection on the buffet table. There was a bittersweet moment when a special music video for our Principal, Miss Tang, was played. The video commemorates Miss

Tang’s 23 years as principal of YPICA Lee Lim Ming College. Although the video was filled with happy memories, one couldn’t help but felt sad that our beloved principal would be retiring soon. So, for one more time, a grand dinner with Miss Tang, teachers and the graduates of class 2018 is in order because there is a reason to celebrate and wish one another good luck—that they may be as happy apart as they were together.

Scan the QR Code for More Photos

SPOTLIGHT

Finally Looking Up

fter months of non-stop studying, things are finally looking up for our 15 Hong Kong Diploma of Secondary Education (HKDSE) passers. They have studied hard in the past few months to prepare for the examination and all their efforts were not lost. Although the revisions and the test itself were difficult, nothing compared to the anxiety over knowing the result of the HKDSE. However, 15 of our Form 6 graduates can now relax because they have indeed passed the test. “It feels great especially because it made my parents happy and proud that I passed and I can continue to work hard and study,” Hammad (6B) shared. Most of the HKDSE passers feel the same way as Hammad. Chloe (6B) echoed the sentiment saying that she was overwhelmed when she found out that she passed the test. “Not only have my efforts paid off but I have also made my family and friends proud,” she added. “I’m planning to study Tourism and Hospitality because it will help me establish a solid foundation for my future career,” Chloe explained saying that she is interested in travelling and plans to travel with family and friends soon. For Hammad, a career in sports management is his best option. “I’m planning to study Sports Management because it’s a combination of two subjects that I love—sports and business,” he said in an interview with Spring. Samuel (6A), on the other hand, has bigger plans. “I plan to study abroad because it’s a great chance for me to explore the world and widen my horizon,” he revealed adding that he feels excited and grateful for the opportunity to study further. Come September, these 15 excellent students will meet new teachers and classmates and begin their journey towards their chosen career. Meanwhile, everyone here at YPICA Lee Lim Ming College wishes them good luck. At the same time, we shall be welcoming a new batch of Form 6 students in the coming school year and with the upward trend, we can expect the number of HKDSE passers to continue to rise.

CULTURE

Into the Fast Lane O

n 15th of June, 2018, our Muslim students celebrated Eid ul-Fitr—a joyous festival that marks the end of the fasting month of Ramadan. Muslims get to enjoy a huge feast with family and exchange gifts or even receive money from generous relatives. But before all that fun was a month of sacrifice and fasting. Why do our Muslim friends fast anyway? According to a research paper shared by Imam Shakeel of the Ping Shan Madrasa, Ramadan fasting is required from every healthy Muslim adult because it is ordered in their holy book, the Qur’an (Ahmad et. al, 2012). During this month, not only are Muslims supposed to stay away from food or water for the whole day, they need to abstain from bad habits or bad behaviour. The main objective is to mould the person into an ideal human being—one who is respectful and caring to others. Basharat (5C) believes that, as Muslims, they need to fast to be able to understand the needs of the poor especially those who cannot afford to buy food for their family. “This month is for all Muslims to help each other,” he said in an interview with Spring adding that the holy month of Ramadan is also a time for forgiveness from their God, Allah. However, this recent Ramadan coincided with our school’s exam schedule so it was harder for some students. Alyssa (5B) admitted that she had to skip a few days of fasting because of exams. “It was too hard to concentrate and focus on finding answers especially Photo: Khajoor or dates play an important part at iftar during Ramadan. Muslims eat a couple of pieces of dates to restore sugar to the body. Symobolically, it was also the food that the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) ate before he broke his fast. (Photo from Google Image Search).

Photo: Basharat and Hamzah pray five times a day. During Ramadan, a similar prayer called ‘du’a’ is done just before they break their fast and share the main meal or iftar with their family. (Photo by Mr Asim)

in Maths or Business subjects when your stomach is empty,” Alyssa said, regretfully. However, she made it clear that she is fully on board with the practice. “I welcome the opportunity to fast. I would actually look forward to it because fasting during Ramadan is not just about following tradition but also about discovering yourself. Yes, it is our way of showing devotion to our God through sacrifice but in the process, you can find your true strength. When I fast, I understand the difficulties that others face when they have nothing to eat and after fasting, I realize that I can overcome these challenges,” she explained. Nevertheless, Imam Shakeel encourages students to keep fasting even though they are taking exams. “By the Grace of God, fasting during exams will improve their concentration,” the Imam quipped. In the research paper, benefits of Ramadan have been positive when it comes to psycho-social matters and over-all health benefits. Muslims experience inner-peace and are more

altruistic. Meanwhile, their bodies have a chance to rid toxins and regain health. For Alyssa, the major benefit is more personal. “Another thing I enjoy about Ramadan is how it brings families closer. Because my parents are busy at work, it’s not often that we get the chance to eat together as a family. During Ramadan, we need to gather together to break the fast at the end of the day and share a meal as a family,” she said. Imam Shakeel noticed that nowadays, more and more teenagers are fasting during Ramadan and some even fast for other religious matters. Each year in YPICA, we continue to learn more about the different cultures in our school. As a symbol of solidarity, the school gave out khajoor (dates), to our Muslim students at the beginning of Ramadan because the date is an important part of the meal when they break their fast for the day. Students and their families also received “Eid Mubarak” cards wishing them a blessed Eid. Hopefully, we can join our Muslim friends to fast for even a day or two to gain a better understanding of what they go through during Ramadan. Scan the QR Code to the read the Research on Fasting mentioned in this article.

EXCELLENT ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE 2017-2018 FORM 1 TO FORM 6 ACADEMIC PRIZE FORM 1

FORM 2

FORM 3

FORM 4

FORM 5

FORM 6

1A 1A

郭柏年黃恩堯

李祖林

徐紅

黃靜

甘奕健

林朗賢

HEUNG NASSER NICAVERA

THAPA NICOLASH

TERMULO ROSE ANASTASIA FLAMINIANO

SAGHIR RABIA

RAI MANISH

THAPA SITA

LINDSEY JARRELLE D.

LIMBU AAKASH

GURUNG YASMI

GURUNG DIYA

MOLINA ROBESPIERRE BRYAN CABINTOY

HAMAD IFTIKHAR

MOLINA VENICE KYLE CABINTOY

THAPA ROSNI

RAI ANISHA

NGOKCHANTHUK SASIYATRON

GARBUJA SUMIKSHA

CURATA CHLOE SHAYE ABELLO

FORM 1 TO FORM 6 OUTSTANDING STUDENTS 2017-2018 1ST IN CLASS HEUNG NASSER NICAVERA 1A

1ST IN CLASS 郭柏年黃恩堯

1ST IN CLASS 李祖林 2A

2ND IN CLASS 胡健朗

2ND IN CLASS LINDSEY JARRELLE D.

1ST IN CLASS SHAHI ANKY 1C

2ND IN CLASS GURUNG ASHISH

3RD IN CLASS MOLINA VENICE KYLE CABINTOY

3RD IN CLASS JAWED ZOUMAL

1ST IN CLASS THAPA NICOLASH

1ST IN CLASS ALEESHBA ZAINAB

2ND IN CLASS LIMBU AAKASH

2ND IN CLASS ANGDEMBE PRATIK

3RD IN CLASS 鄭子豪

3RD IN CLASS THAPA ROSNI

3RD IN CLASS HAJRAH SHAFIQ

1ST IN CLASS 徐紅

1ST IN CLASS

1ST IN CLASS SARU PUN CHRIST

TERMULO ROSE ANASTASIA FLAMINIANO

2ND IN CLASS 李祖江

2ND IN CLASS GURUNG YASMI

2ND IN CLASS

ISIP GERALDINE JAMAICA LHYN GILO

3RD IN CLASS 葉梓聰

3RD IN CLASS RAI ANISHA

3RD IN CLASS ENCOY ENRIQUE II

1ST IN CLASS 黃靜

1ST IN CLASS SAGHIR RABIA

1ST IN CLASS GURUNG SUDIP

2ND IN CLASS 盧雅瑩

2ND IN CLASS GURUNG DIYA

2ND IN CLASS MALLA VIVEK

3RD IN CLASS 許圓美

3RD IN CLASS NGOKCHANTHUK SASIYATRON

3RD IN CLASS JAVERIA

1ST IN CLASS 甘奕健

1ST IN CLASS RAI MANISH

1ST IN CLASS RABIA EJAZ

2ND IN CLASS 梁樂言

2ND IN CLASS

MOLINA ROBESPIERRE BRYAN CABINTOY

2ND IN CLASS

BAKHOTMAH ABDULRAHMAN FAWAZ A

甘晓婷

3RD IN CLASS

3RD IN CLASS GARBUJA SUMIKSHA

3RD IN CLASS YAQOOB IFAT

1ST IN CLASS 林朗賢

1ST IN CLASS THAPA SITA

1ST IN CLASS YONGYA BIBEK

2ND IN CLASS 林永樂

3RD IN CLASS 李芷欣

2ND IN CLASS HAMAD IFTIKHAR

3RD IN CLASS CURATA CHLOE SHAYE ABELLO

2ND IN CLASS ARSALAN HAIDAR 3RD IN CLASS MUHAMMAD MADIYA NAVEED

Achievements in Extra-curricular Activities 2017-2018 Hong Kong Schools Music and Speech Association 69th Hong Kong Schools Speech Festival (English Speech) English Solo Verse Speaking Competition

English Choral Speaking Competition

Second Merit

Biswas Suchita (1B), Misbah Hussain (1B), Molina Venice Kyle Cabintoy (1B), Rai Kristina (1B), Proficiency Gurung Sudishna (2B) Usman Haris (1B), Mir Shamaim (2B), Thapa Sophiya (2B), Gurung Elijah Bagni (2B), Gurung Yasmi (3B), Termulo Rose Anastasia Flaminiano (3B), Saru Pun Christ (3C), Waseem-Nadim (3C), 黃靜 (4A), Gurung Sudip (4C), Garbuja Sumiksha (5B), Gurung Priya (5B), Gurung Sofiya (5B), Thapa Kushal (5B)

Mahmood Khan Choudhry Eskander (1B) Heung Alyssa Nicavera (4B)

Class 1B, 1C, 2A, 2B, 2C

Merit

Hong Kong Schools Music and Speech Association - 69th Hong Kong Schools Speech Festival (Putonghua Speech) Solo Verse Speaking

Merit

黃靜 (4A), 曾嘉琪 (4A)

Proficiency

李祖江 (3A)

Hong Kong Schools Music and Speech Association - 69th Hong Kong Schools Speech Festival (Chinese Speech) Merit Poetry Recital (Female) Proficiency

Kubra Khadija UL (1B) Biswas Suchita (1B) 黃靜 (4A) Molina Venice Kyle Cabintoy (1B), 黃楚紅 (3A), Termulo Rose Anastasia Flaminiano (3B), 盧雅瑩 (4A), Loksham Mujoklung (4B), Heung Alyssa Nicavera (4B)

Poetry Recital (Male)

Proficiency

郭柏年 (1A), 鄺招財 (2A), 胡健朗 (2A), 葉梓聰 (3A), Horera Bin Tariq (4B), 梁樂言 (5A)

The Hong Kong Schools Sports Federation New Territories Secondary School Sports Competition Tuen Mun Inter-School C grade Football Competition

Gurung Sumit (3C), Rana Rejan (3B), Gurung Ayush (2C), Angdembe Naamse Hang (2C), Gurung Easant (2B), Singh Abhishek Deep (2B), Gurung Shawn (1B), Libu Esan (1B), Limbu Omraj (1B), Limbu Daniel (1B), Mohammad Arbaz (1C)

2nd Runner-up

Hong Kong Billiard Sports Control Council Samsung The 61st Festival Of Sports Inter-School Pool Championship (Double)

2nd runner-up

甘奕健 (5A), Shah Jawad (5B)

Floor Ball Federation of Hong Kong Hong Kong Floorball Inter-school Competition

Mohammad Raja Asif (1B), Sajad Jamal (1C), Mohammad Arbaz (1C), Mohammad Zeeshan (2C), Mohammad Bilal (2C), 葉梓聰 (3A), Mohammad Zaid (4C), 李加沖 (5A)

The Champion

San Wui Commercial Society Secondary School 17-18 Tuen Mun Inter-School 6 Red Ball Snooker Competition 2nd runner-up

Syed Mohsin Ishtiyaq (3B) Isip Jhon Lourence Verdadero (3B)

3rd runner-up

甘奕健 (5A), Shah Jawad (5B)

The Education University of Hong Kong Challenge Cup 2nd runner-up

3rd EdUHK Inter-school Floor Curling Tournament

甘晓婷 (5A), 陳穎茵 (5A), 黃慧儀 (6A)

Hong Kong Floor Curling Association Tuen Mun Floor Curling Association Gurung Ribeeca (1B), Rai Kristina (1B), Harabage Pinkie Roshani Fernando (1C), Shahi Anky (1C), 黃海華 (4A), 陳穎茵 (5A), 黄黃慧儀 (6A), 黃曉彤 (6A)

5th Place

The New Territories Jing Ying Floor Curling Competition

Yuen Long Town Hall Jockey Club Yuen Long Children And Youth Integrated Service Centre Cricket Competition 2018

Mohammad Arbaz (1C), Mohammad Zeeshan (2C), Bashir Danyal (3B), Shah Muhammad Haseeb Ali (4C), Waheed Khan (5C), Hamzaa Hussain (5C), Mohammad Adnan (5C), Khan Khaqan Haider (5C)

亞軍 1st runner-up

Hong Kong Chinese Martial Arts Dragon & Lion Dance Association Hong Kong Open Dragon & Lion Dance Competition

李祖林 (2A), 李祖江 (3A), 李鍩彤 (3A), 黃楚紅 (3A), 徐紅 (3A), 曾嘉琪 (4A), 張民浩 (5A)

Dragon Dance Competition-5th Place

Wui Fok International Cultural Exchange Association Financial Innovation @ Future Eassy Writing Competition

Outstanding Awards

曾嘉琪 (4A), 許良生 (5A), 甘奕健 (5A)

Link Center The 2nd Cantonese Competition for Ethnic Minorities in Hong Kong Speech Competition

Merit

Mir Shamaim (2B), Javeria (4B)

Hang Lung Young Architects Program Workshop on the relationship between space and building

Outstanding Team Award nd

2 runner-up

Architectural Tour Design Competition

曾嘉琪 (4A), Heung Alyssa Nicavera (4B), Loksham Mujoklung (4B), Pascual Nicole Alexis Seleccion (4B), Limbu Samrat (4B), Gurung Metsu (4B)

Community Youth Club Respectful and Virtuous Teen Election

Merit

郭柏年 (1A), Ali Basharat (5C)

Hong Kong Police Force (Tuen Mun Division) Smart Programme Hiking Skills Competition

Smart Program Team Member Improvement Award

The Champion

郭柏年 (1A), Heung Nasser Nicavera (1B),Usman Haris (1B), Sarki Pratik (1C), 鄭子豪 (2A), 鄺招財 (2A), 李祖林 (2A), 胡健朗 (2A), Thapa Sophiya(2B), Gurung Elijah Bagni (2B), Gurung Himal (2C), Madamba Ev Jay Centeno (2C), 李祖江 (3A), Bashir Danyal (3B), Abdul Umma Bi (3C), Nasir Muhammad Waqas (3C), Waseem-Nadim (3C), 曾嘉琪 (4A), 麥智賢 (4A), 吳子彥 (4A), Ghafar Samreen (5C), Rabia Ejaz (5C), Yaqoob Ifat (5C)

The Champion

Madamba Ev Jay Centeno (2C)

The 1st runner

Bashir Danyal (3B)

The 2nd runner

Yaqoob Ifat (5C)

Outstanding Team Member

Keen Participation Award

鄭子豪 (2A), 鄺招財 (2A), 李祖林 (2A), 胡健朗 (2A), 李祖江 (3A), Nasir Muhammad Waqas (3C), Waseem-Nadim (3C), 曾嘉琪 (4A), 麥智賢 (4A), 吳子彥 (4A), Ghafar Samreen (5C), Rabia Ejaz (5C), Yaqoob Ifat (5C)

麥智賢 (4A)

HIGHLIG

CHINESE DAY

Scan the QR Code for More Photos

GRATITUDE WEEK

PASSING OUT PARADE

Scan the QR Code for More Photos

GHTS

SPORTS CARNIVAL AND TEACHER-STUDENT FOOTBALL MATCH

Scan the QR Code for More Photos

YPICA Lee Lim Ming College 2461-8818, 2467-0652 2467-0775 Shan King Estate, Tuen Mun, N.T., HK school@mail.ypicallmc.edu.hk http://www.ypicallmc.edu.hk SPRING is the official English Newsletter of YPICA Lee Lim Ming College. It is published by YPICALLMC. For more information, visit our website.

Volume 3, Issue 2 August 2018

Editorial Board Advisor: Ms Tang Yin Ping The Principal

Scan QR Code to visit our website.

Chief Editor: Mr Japheth Imperio Editor: Mr Samuel Moyani, Jr Typesetter: Mr Chan Yiu Kuen Mr Chan Siu Wing