Advice Index Advice
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Glenforest
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Charity Week at Glenforest Girls Flag Football Team Takes Peel Up by Storm
Community
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Top 5 Things to Do This Fall/ Winter Welcome to Toronto, Toronto and Toronto:Our Forgotten History
National
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"Hockey is where we live: Humboldt Broncos Back on the Ice Have you Heard of Donna Strickland? Grade Inflation: The University of Waterloo's Long-Kept Secret
Global
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The Disappearance of Jamal Khashoggi
Science
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Eerie Tales of Interdimensional Travel Stephen Hawking: Superhumans in the Future? The Charmeleon Effect Déjà Vu - Explained Better with Physics or Psychology?
Culture
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Venom: Movie Review The Rise of Asian Representation in Hollywood
Editorial
VOLUME 28, ISSUE 1 Fall 2018 PAGE 2
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Response 2:
Dear Talon Times, "I just started at Glenforest, and this is both exciting and nerve-wracking for me. I am nervous because I have an extremely complicated social life where I feel like all my friends don't like me behind my back and I am not sure how to join a new friend group. Also, I feel pressure academically because I come from a highly educated family and I feel like I have to be better because all my cousins and siblings have been accepted into really good universities in the last few years. Could you advise me?"
- Nervous Wreck
Dear Nervous Wreck,
Any transition is going to take some getting used to and I’m sure you will be settled in before you know it. Firstly, know that you are not alone in this!
Almost everyone starting school at Glenforest is going through something similar to you and feeling the same emotions.
Making friends is super important especially if you do not already know most of the students from your previous schools. Although it may be hard, with
effort and a little bit of time you can definitely do it! The best way to make friends is by talking to people. Talk about anything to anyone. Branch out, start a conversation with the person beside you. A small conversation can spark a long term friendship. It is a great idea to talk to the people in your class as you will spending a lot of time with them throughout the year anyway. As for your fear that your friends don’t like you, there is not much you can do but be yourself. As long as you are being your best self and you are kind, there is nothing you can do. Never change yourself to please others or to become friends with someone.
I completely understand how stressful it must be to be held to such high standards because of the successes of your family let alone how stressful schools is
itself. Keep in mind that no matter what happens your family won’t love you any less and they are there to support you too, so I strongly encourage you to talk to them. Although achieving all that your parents expect from you may seem impossible and completely unrealistic, this is not true at all. If you put your mind and energy into something there will always be an outcome. So don’t ever forget to keep working toward your goals. Start off by creating several small and achievable goals that lead you in the direction of your final goal, no matter how hard and unachievable it may seem at the moment. Don’t forget that you have these four years to become the best you. Take these four years to your advantage to focus on your improvement and your goals.
Response 1:
Best of luck, - Talon Times Advice
pg 18
The Twenty-First Century Music Industry: Needs Work Straight-A... Teachers?
Dear Nervous Wreck,
Sports
The transition from middle school to high school is definitely a large one. I’m currently going through this transition as well, and I
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can understand where you are coming from. Making new friends is difficult, especially when you’re in a new environment. The first
Dear Nervous Wreck,
step to making new friends is just to talk to people you haven’t talked to before. If you approach people with a friendly attitude, peo-
ple will answer back with the same attitude. If they don’t, then you probably don’t want to be friends with that person anyways. If you
journey can be scary, but just know that the Glenforest learning environment makes it easy for everybody to learn, socialize, and succeed.
First off, welcome to Glenforest. I hope you’re finding everything okay and you are able to find your way around the school! I know starting a high school
keep doing this, you’ll eventually have a group of friends that you feel comfortable with. The most important thing is to make sure you feel comfortable with your friends. If you don’t feel comfortable around them, then they probably aren’t your friends. Do your
current friends make you feel comfortable when you’re around them? If they do, then you have no reason to believe that they don’t
If it helps, I advise you to join different clubs and committees to meet new people. Just be open minded and don’t expect to find the best group within a matter of
like you.
hours, you have to keep a distance whenever you’re meeting new people—or for any life situation in that matter. Don’t be afraid to tell people about yourself and
Teacher Supervisors
It’s common for teens to lose friends and make new ones. Don’t be too shy to get your way around different groups around the school to find your niche!
cracking light hearted jokes is essential if you want to avoid the awkward small talk (I think we all wish we could). Don’t be too hard on yourself and just be your-
Mr. Gordon & Ms. Axon
Editors in Chief
Response 3:
While your social life is large part of your high school experience, the academic portion is the most important. Right now, you feel
self. Trust me, everybody is trying to figure out themselves and you are not the only one going through this awkward phase of life.
Anushka Goyal Eric Zhang
like you have to reach those expectations that have been set by your relatives. You might not feel like you can fulfill those expectations
Advice Columnists
right now, but you definitely have the ability to do so. Instead of trying to reach massive goals (like getting into a good university), try
setting smaller, more realistic goals that will help you reach your end goal. Instead of trying to reach expectations that other people
you to find your passion early so that you can figure out what you want to do in the future. If you like to write, consider journalism! If you are interested in people
have set for you, try to set some for yourself and fulfill those instead. If there is anyone who knows what you are capable of achieving,
and human behavior, consider psychology! Just know that there is something for everybody and you shouldn’t have to force yourself to be a doctor, a lawyer or a
it’s you. Don’t focus on how well others have done too much. As long as you have done the best you can, then that’s all that matters.
engineer in order to succeed. I know a lot of parents build this plan in your head that you must abide by, but sometimes you have to ask yourself: is it your life or
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As for your academic pathway, don’t stress yourself out too much but at the same time, don’t be lazy! Speaking from experience, I highly encourage for
theirs? Are you going to be working for them or for yourself? Will you be fulfilling your dream or theirs? As long as you are interested in what you are going into, Hope this helps, - Talon Times Advice
you will have this drive to work hard and build your reputation. Just think about it, Walter Disney was denied 302 bank loans before he found the right investors to create the Disney World we know today. See what believing in yourself can do?
Best of luck, - Talon Times Advice
VOLUME 28, ISSUE 1 Fall 2018 PAGE 4
Glenforest
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Glenforest
Photo:Warwick Siane Sahdra Photo: Pang
Charity Week at Glenforest By: Aamna Ashfaq
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uring the third week of October, Glenforest students held an election for their choice of Local and Global Charity that best represents the school. On October 15th, the executives and members of several clubs began their campaigning around the whole school. Each club promoted a unique charity and students decided which charity they would vote for. To ensure every charity had a chance to speak about what they were supporting, a Charity Week Showcase was held in the front foyer at lunch, the day before voting. Clubs that were running for Global Charity were MetoWe supporting WE Charity, Operation Smile supporting Operation Smile Charity, Interact-YFGA supporting Rotary International Charity, Champions of Change supporting PLAN International Canada and Glenforest Wild-
life Conservation supporting World Wildlife Fund. MEtoWE focuses on creating sustainable models to provide access to opportunities, education, water, food and health services for people all around the world. All money raised goes towards causes such as adopting entire villages, improving schools, and even creating business for women. Operation Smile is a medical charity that focuses on providing free healthcare and ensuring safe and timed surgeries with trained personnel in developing countries. The ‘smile’ aspect is focused on facial surgeries for children and young adults suffering cleft lip, cleft palate and other facial deformations, to help them feel confident and strong. Rotary International is a humanitarian nonprofit tackling multiple issues. They provide clean water and mentorship programs, build schools, protect mothers, and fight diseases.
PLAN International is a charity that focuses on advocating for women and children’s rights in developing countries. Lack of education, child abuse, forced marriages, and gender-based violence are just some of the main problems they intend to stop in hopes of elevating the status and future of children and women. World Wildlife Fund is about instilling beneficial changes to the environment. By meeting renewable energy targets, doubling populations of tigers, providing sustainable food for developing countries, and protecting ocean reefs,, as well as wildlife and forests, WWF fights to protect our environment. Clubs that were running for Local Charity were United Way and Jack.org, supporting the charities they are named after. United Way is an organization that has been dedicated to conducting relief services and supporting other charities
for over a century. They create and fund support programs based on local needs within a community addressing issues such as poverty, homelessness, drug abuse and mental health, to name a few. Jack.org at Glenforest is just one of the many chapters nationwide, focusing on revolutionizing peoples’ perspectives on mental health by breaking the stigma around mental illness. They do this by generating awareness through hosting activities and discussing the prevalent issue publicly. The voting, now complete, presents us with the final choices: Interact-YFGA with Rotary International for Global Charity, and Jack.org for Local Charity, have successfully gained the most votes in their respective categories. Siane Sahdra, president of Interact-YFGA commented, “On behalf of Interact-YFGA, we want to take this opportunity to truly thank all the people that voted for our
Photo: Kim Nguyen
charity. I am proud to say that as it is my last year, it is the first year that Interact-YFGA has been chosen [as] Global Charity. We are ecstatic to finally be recognized as a club that holds meaningful events throughout the year, making the Glenforest student experience much more enjoyable and memorable. I hope that through being elected as Global Charity, interact YFGA is further known as a meaningful club supporting crucial and current causes, more importantly, reminding all students that that you have the chance to ignite positive change.” Lidia Moonsammy, copresident of jack.org also commented, saying she was “so proud of the jack.org chapter [here] at Glenforest, with all of the hard work put into Charity Week. Being our school’s local charity is more than just a school donation. It’s a chance for a conversation to be started on mental health [where] initiatives will be able to be funded and youth across
Canada will be given the opportunity to eliminate the stigma surrounding mental health and illness. A big thank you goes out to everyone who voted and supported jack. org this year. The Glenforest chapter is so excited to bring more mental health focused events and initiatives and raise money for this importance cause.” At the end of the day, each charity is significant and, responsible for changing millions of lives around the world. All the money is trusted to be used for the best causes. As a school, it is evident that we have achieved a level of awareness where everyone has realized the importance of giving back and supporting others in difficult times, a crucial aspect of social living. Charity Week was very meaningful in motivating all the students at Glenforest and bringing them together for a important cause.
Photo: Siane Sahdra
Photo: Warwick Pang
Photo: Warwick Pang
Photo: Rachnaven Katesh
Girls’ Flag Football Team Takes Peel Up by Storm By: Selena Zhou
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touchdown of the season. It was a close game: they scored the touchdown in the first half, but lost by just a one-point conversion in the second half. The final score was 6 to 7, and although the girls lost, they resolved to improve in the next game.
t around eleven hundred hours to twelve hundred hours, a group of high schoolers can be seen tossing around circular objects and dashing at high speeds instead of taking a break and eating with their peers. No, they aren’t crazy. As their second game They are Glenforest’s very own was barely half a week followFlag Football Team! ing the first, the team trained The Glenforest Girls’ Flag intensely to achieve their goal. Football Team started in ear- On September 28th, the girls ly September. Interested girls left for Cawthra’s fields to play had to go through a total of against St. Paul’s team. four tryouts, with endless agilThe game was intense, ity drills, easy-ups, and mock and dragged on for longer games before the team was fithan before. Both teams were nalized to around fifteen peotied after the game, leading ple. to overtime. Overtime conFollowing the tryouts, sisted of six side-by-side conthe team’s first game was right versions, and the two teams at home in Glenforest. They switched between offense and faced off against Philip Poco- defense each time. By the sixth ck and scored the very first conversion, St. Paul was in the
lead with 2 to 1. The girls made a critical decision: they went all or nothing and chose a two point conversion at ten yards instead of the usual one point at five yards. The ball flew gracefully over the heads of three defenders and landed right in the hands of the waiting receiver. A loud cheer erupted from the sidelines, as the girls celebrated their first victory of the season. They then went on to defeat Cawthra not a week later in a torrential game of 18 to 12 on the same fields.
pertinacity in just two months time. Alysa Dedelli, a center back for the team said, “This has been an amazing experience for me. Despite losing a few games, we’ve bonded, made memories and had a fun and worthwhile experience representing Glenforest. I am so proud to be a Gryphon, especially surrounded by this fantastic group of girls who have worked so hard to bring us some Gryphon pride.”
The girls truly have made Glenforest proud and repAlthough the team resented us very well. Great missed their next two games season, and we’re all looking by just a few touchdowns, they forward to next year! recovered almost immediately with a powerful win against the F.M. Goetz in a game of 19-6. The Glenforest Girls’ Flag Football Team has shown incredible grit, teamwork, and
Photo: Glenforest Athletics
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Community
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Community
Photo: TVO
Photo: Deepasri Dattaraghava
Top 5 Things to Do This Fall/Winter W
By: Ruth Zelleke
ith winter just around the corner, there’s one question on everyone’s minds - what can I go out and do at this time of year? Well fear not, because here is a list of some of the super fun things you can do and places you can visit in your vicinity this winter.
is great to go to with friends, family, or even with a significant other. It has a very cozy and warm ambiance, a truly welcoming atmosphere in the middle of our freezing winter. The whole market is decorated with lights, ornaments and other Christmas decor to make picture-perfect backToronto Christmas Market drops. If you’ve never been to Heading to Toronto this this place before, I strongly enupcoming holiday? Well the courage you to go! Toronto Christmas Market is a must if you are looking for Casa Loma something different. Here you Decked out in seasonal can shop, dine, join in different decor, this next location is the activities or just sit back and place to be this holiday! Casa enjoy the abundant entertain- Loma is Toronto’s very own ment stages that are happen- castle that holds several events, ing at the market! This place whether it’d be public or pri-
vate. One of these events is the annual Christmas showcase that includes a tour around the castle, and watching the many circus acts that happen inside. This castle is one of North America’s only castles and it being in Toronto makes it ten times more accessible for all of us. It is truly Canada’s Winter Wonderland! The Nutcracker: A Live Performance Calling all the theatre and dynamic art fanatics! The National Ballet of Canada continues to hold their annual two-act ballet series in downtown for everyone to enjoy! The Nutcracker is a traditional
Christmas story that follows the journey of a toy nutcracker that comes to life after defeating the evil mouse king and visits a kingdom dominated by dolls. If you are looking for some fun and different entertainment this holiday, ditch the Netflix and come out to watch The Nutcracker.
plants. Although you won’t be allowed to pick any, the many sights and smells will surely make up for that. These parks also offer their popular wagon rides, carollers, and a visit from Santa on the first Sunday of December, as well as a candlelight exhibition on several weekends. So come out and see what Nature has to ofAllan Gardens and Centenni- fer! al Parks Conservatory They love me, they love Netflix Movies me not. Plucking the petals off I get it, you’re broke and a flower is a vital way of being lonely (relatable). Whether connected with nature, isn’t it? you like it or not, Netflix is Head over to Allan Gardens probably your closest friend. or Centennial Parks Conser- It knows everything about vatory to explore some beau- you, be it from the shows it tiful displays of flowers and recommends you to watch to
your paying method information locked in its system. But here’s what we know that Netflix doesn’t: underrated holiday movies. If you are looking for funny, light-hearted, and family movies, I recommend: Christmas with the Kranks, Elf, the Home Alone Series, Are We There Yet, and The Grinch Who Stole Christmas. For our more serious and mature audiences, do watch: Last Holiday, This Christmas, Best Man Holiday, Jack Frost, The Sweetest Christmas, and A Christmas Carol.
Photo: Deepasri Dattaraghava
Photo: Tarek Alkorani
Welcome to Toronto, Toronto, and Toronto: Our Forgotten History By: Andrej Galinac
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Photo: Macleans
hen we think of Toronto, we like to think of the megacity to our east. The one with Drake, Shawn Mendes, the CN Tower, the Raptors, and the SkyDome (Roger Centre), among a multitude of other symbols we’ve come to associate with “The 6ix”. Ask for the locations to Toronto in the 19th century however, and you’d end up in the same place in which you’re probably reading this in Mississauga.
Interestingly, a lake named after the same officer was also on the site of the wetlands named “Toronto”, and later on, the officer had become rather fond of its name. He hoped it would one day become the name of the temporary capital of Upper Canada. This location, however, was given the name of York in 1793, because his colleagues were not particularly fond of an aboriginal-derived colonial capital name.
call a narrow valley a “glen” back in Ireland, surrounded by wooded forests of trees and often referred to as a haven. While their presence no longer stands visible at a glance, their lots and glen-derived names still stand to this date. The most well-preserved land lot from the time that you’ll find in the local area we live in is the cemetery near the Burnhamthorpe Library, the final resting place for many of the original townsfolk.
Legally and officially given to us in 1805, we were bestowed as the first Toronto within British Upper Canada (We the 5 anyone?), which may have in part happened because the surveyor had a British officer by the name of Simcoe.
The land we would come to live on would be marked and mapped, and settlers, many of whom were Irish, came and well, settled. Glenforest, Glenhaven, and Forest Glen were all named by these settlers, who would
In 1819, Toronto Gore Township entered the fray, bordering Toronto to their south-east as the second Toronto, nestling next to Chinguacousy and Albion township to its west and north respectively. This literal wedge
of land, now not much more than a wedge of suburbia, was really a little brother to the larger Toronto Township (Mississauga). It would later be divided between what is now Mississauga and Brampton. This is practically non-existent within our history textbooks even though it is crucial part of our past.
Yorksters. By this point, it became clear that the battle of the Toronto’s would become even more confusing, in which Goliath arrived and sat on the two Davids standing nearby.
incredible yet sadly forgotten history of the land we live on. However, your phone and the internet shows an entirely different view. A quick Google search or two is sure to unearth a treasure trove of forgotten history and stories As time went on, Toronto right in your neighbourhood Township would become so they shall not grow old. the Town and later, the City of Mississauga largely due to population growth. Meanwhile, Toronto Gore would end up disintegrating into other neighbouring townships. The fight for Toronto finally had a victor: York.
Going forth to 1834, we would find our City of York from a couple dozen worlds back. They were at the time in the mood for independence and to become the “real deal”. The Yorksters, recalling the late Simcoe’s suggestion for calling the city “Toronto”, proudly Articles at the Talon proclaimed themselves to be Times have their word count the “... the only City of Toronto limits, making the scope of in the world” - Bumbling this article a brief glance at the
VOLUME 28, ISSUE 1 Fall 2018 PAGE 8
National
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National
Photo: CBC
“Hockey is where we live”: Humboldt Broncos Back on the Ice O
By: Aliza Lallani
Derek Patter, the only two to rejoin this year’s team. Camrud, who overcame severe head trauma, loss of feeling in his arms and neck pain said he was looking forward to playing again and wanted to honour the sixteen victims of the tragedy. “To the best of my ability [I’m going to]…try to make them proud,” he said.
n September 12th, 2018, avid hockey viewers from across the country banded together to witness the launch of a new hockey season. With hundreds of friends, family members and fans in attendance, this sold-out opening game marked the Humboldt Broncos’ triumphant return to the ice since the tragic bus The Broncos played crash in early April. against the defending champions, the Nipawin Hawks, Eight of the thirteen sur- and the same team they were viving players dropped the en route to face on the night puck in the ceremonial faceoff, of the crash. Despite tremenled by Brayden Camrud and dous effort, the Broncos came
just short of winning, with the overcome pain and wrong game ending in a 2-1 victory and death. Life is just a place we spend between games,” for the Hawks. he said, passionately quoting However, it was the post- Canadian hockey legend Fred game ceremony that really Shero. struck a chord with the team, While some of the surwhen yellow and green banners with the names of each vivors attended the game, player and staff involved in former Broncos defenceman the collision were unfurled Ryan Straschnitzki was suitthroughout the arena. During ing up for the first game of his the tribute, Scott Thomas, own after enduring months of whose son Evan was killed in extensive physiotherapy. Strathe crash, held back tears when schnitzki, who was thrown from the bus resulting in sevaddressing the audience. eral critical injuries, was also “Hockey is where we live, left paralyzed from the chest where we can best meet and down.
Despite being confined to a wheelchair and having to relearn simple skills such as putting on his shoes, Straschnitzki’s incessant positive attitude was evident at the Cowboys N’ Sleds Charity Sledge Hockey game this past Saturday. The game ended in a 5-4 win for Straschnitzki’s team, in which he scored two goals and had an assist. “It was one of the happiest times of my life and I was back out there again and just enjoying the moment,” he said. The event was organized to raise funds for the Shock Trauma Air Rescue Society
and the Strazstrong Foundation in support of Straschnitzki. Through his hard work and unwavering determination, Straschnitzki wants to do more than just walk again. In an interview with the Canadian Press, he said, “I’m here to inspire people and tell them it’s not over.” In the future, Straschnitzki hopes to represent Canada at the Olympics and win a gold medal in sledge hockey.
Have you heard of Donna Strickland? By: Mateja Perc
Photo: TSN
Photo: Ottawa Tourism
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very year in September, nforest alumni going to university or college have to make the scary yet liberating transition between high school and post-secondary studies. For many, this means journeying to the city of Waterloo, whose university is a popular choice. The school is well-known for its engineering and computer science programs, whose reputations attract top recruiters from the United States – particularly Silicon Valley. As of a month ago, the university has earned another reason to be proud,
and another field to take pride in. It was just a few weeks ago that the Nobel Prize in Physics was awarded in part to Donna Strickland, an Associate Professor of Physics at Waterloo. She was awarded the prize “for groundbreaking inventions in the field of laser physics for the method of generating high-intensity, ultra-short optical pulses,” according to the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences. The research, done in 1984, used chirped-pulse amplification on lasers, allowing for the state-of-art laser technology
we have today. With this technology, lasers could now be fast and high-powered at the same time, and it has manifested itself the most in the form of LASIK and LASEK eye corrective surgeries, which use lasers to reshape the cornea.
She is the first Canadian woman to win the prize, and one of the few – possibly the first – scientist to receive a Nobel Prize for their first research paper. Despite this, Professor Strickland is very humble about her achievements.
The work transformed laser technology. It not only brought about practical realworld applications, but also opened up new avenues of research and development in science. For this reason, Professor Strickland is now proudly a Nobel Prize laureate.
“If you put enough adjectives you can always be the first,” she said during a press conference. In a time when conversations are starting to happen about more women in STEM, she is sure to become a role model for young females across Canada
and is a great example of how important representation is in terms of empowerment. When asked for advice she would give to prospective youth, she said, “We all should do what we find fun and what we can do. When my daughter was quite young, she was being asked by her friends about me CBCwork rather than goingPhoto: out to staying home and my answer is the world works best if we all do what we’re good at. I’m much better at tweaking lasers and so I should be out there in the world tweaking lasers… I think if we all do what we’re really good at, it just helps the
world.” The message of empowerment and individualism is strong here. You might not be the best student in your physics class, you may not like science at all. But that doesn’t mean you can’t do your best to make the world a better place – while having fun at the same time.
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Photo: ODZ
Photo: Top Hat
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National
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Global
Photo: CBC
Grade Inflation: The University of Waterloo's Long-Kept Secret By: Valerie Molodtsova
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hen applying for universities and colleges, some students often worry that they may not have reached the cut-off entrance mark for their desired school, while others are far from confident about whether or not their final score, as well as the knowledge they've obtained throughout their high school years, will help them in the next several years. That being said, the University of Waterloo has recently released a study, conducted through decades, concerning grade inflation occurring in high schools all over Ontario.
significantly and therefore looks good on university applications, giving them a higher chance of getting into their desired school. On the other hand, they don't deserve to have their mark inflated by, say, 20 percent, and this comes back to them when they receive their marks at the end of a university term. It's not the student's fault for having a higher mark than justified, but if the university sees that they are at a 95% average at the end of high school, they have expectations for that student, for them to continue with their How does grade inflation success. affect students, though? Their Although the contents final average after completing secondary school is increased of the list were confidential, The list, containing nearly 80 schools, was created when universities started noticing a significant drop from a student's entrance mark to their mark at the end of a term. This gap was called an "adjustment factor," and it ranged from 9 percent to almost 30 percent. Having said that, some schools stayed on the list for only one year, while others lasted much longer, meaning that when the final list was released, it displayed the average "adjustment factor" for the specified school.
Photo: Bondfield.com
its existence was not, and for years it has been awaited for. The school with the highest "adjustment factor" is Grimsby Secondary School, with a whopping 27.5 percent grade inflation. Other schools with an "adjustment factor" of more than 20 percent include Silverthorn Collegiate Institute, Vaughan Secondary School, and Sir Wilfrid Laurier Collegiate Institute. Schools in the Peel Region with fairly high "adjustment factors" include St Aloysius Gonzaga S.S, Stephen Lewis S.S, Streetsville S.S, and Turner Fenton S.S.
with it? When applicants for post-secondary schools are coming in, professors tend to look at what school they come from and follow up by looking at the list. Say a student from Grimsby S.S applied for Waterloo, the professors would be hesitant with their application as Grimsby is the school with the highest "adjustment factor." The professors can go on to accept the applicant based on further research of their grades, or they can put them on the waiting list, letting an applicant from a school not on the list have the opportunity.
The University of WaterThe only thing left to say loo has this 'secret list', but the question is, what do they do about the "adjustment factor"
in the list is that it's completely unfair towards students. The reason for the grade inflation is for the overall school average to be much higher, making the school look far better than any other. A teacher's decision to give a student a higher mark than he or she deserves is uncalled for, and by staying true to the student's mark, they aren't risking the applicant's success in their post-secondary locations. Grade inflations are not in the hands of students, and we really need to consider - is it really fair to reprimand them for something out of their control?
Photo: PopBuzz Photo: Chris Mcgrath
The Disappearance of Jamal Khashoggi O
By: Benjamin Mah
n October 2, 2018, Saudi journalist Jamal Ahmad Khashoggi entered Saudi Arabia's consulate in Istanbul, Turkey to retrieve an official divorce document in order to secure his marriage with his fiancée, who was waiting outside the building. But he never came out of the building. When he did not re-emerge after the closing hours, his fiancée reported him as missing. Who exactly was Jamal
Khashoggi? Khashoggi was a prominent critic and journalist against the Saudi regime after a fallout between him and the elite in the country, and was well renowned across the globe. Khashoggi fled to the U.S. from Saudi Arabia in September of 2017, and continued to castigate against the Saudi government through newspaper articles from outside the country. He mainly focused his criticism toward Saudi Arabia’s crown prince, Mohammad bin Salman, and the king, Salman of Saudi Arabia. Many sources believe this
was the reason behind his dis- ditionally to bring those responsible to justice. They have appearance. come short of suggesting diSince his disappearance, rectly that the monarchy had Saudi Arabia and Turkey have known about the assassinalaunched a joint investigation tion, however. to look into the case, which At present, 18 Saudis has resulted in the unravelhave been detained, and 5 ling of a new narrative. Saudi top-level government officials Arabia, which had previously have additionally been redenied involvement and the moved from their posts. Turkdeath of Jamal Khashoggi, ish police have since expandhas since given in to international pressure, admitting that ed the search for the body of the murder was premeditated. Khashoggi, bypassing initial Following Turkish accusations Saudi resistance. against 15 Saudi nationals, Saudi Arabia has vowed adAs the case continues to
unravel, what effect this will have on Saudi Arabia and their diplomatic, economic, military and political relations has yet to be seen. Despite mounting evidence, it is unclear if Saudi Arabia’s western allies, including Canada and the United States, will take action beyond words. Both nations hold military and economic agreements between themselves and the state, as is the case with many others.
and rapidly-changing situation. More in-depth investigations are sure to come, likely along with further pieces to the truth behind the case.
Stay tuned on your preferred news stations to hear more about the intensifying Photo: ABC News
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Science
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Science
Photo: TVTRopes.org
Photo: Joe Giddens
Photo: CNBC
Photo : CNBC
Stephen Hawking: Superhumans in the Future? By: Khyathi Rao
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Eerie Tales of Interdimensional Travel By: Anushka Goyal
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ver since the idea of ‘parallel universes’ existing was officially proposed by Hugh Everett III in 1954, it has messed with the minds of scientists, philosophers, bloggers, and average folk alike. Perhaps we’re just a sliver of time away from an alternate existence, or maybe regular people we pass on the street are beings from an alternate universe that have already perfected the art of inter-dimensional travel. Quantum physics aside, our only evidence of these universes existing are the tales of those who claim to have found dimensional slips and travelled into these unimaginable worlds. One tale of inter-dimensional travel is that of a man from a country by the name of ‘Taured’. In 1954, a man travelled to Tokyo, and when he handed over his passport to a Customs officer to be stamped, he was immediately pulled
aside for an interrogation on the whereabouts of his origins. This wasn’t a case of racial profiling – though his passport seemed authentic, it listed a country nobody had ever heard of, called Taured. He explained that Taured was a small country between France and Spain, and when he was asked to point it out on a map, he immediately pointed towards the Principality of Andorra. When he realized that it wasn’t Taured, he was just as baffled as the officers in the room. He insisted that Taured should have been on the map, since it had been a country for over 1000 years. He told the officers that he came to Tokyo on a business trip, something he had been doing for the past five years. His passport, being covered in previous Customs and Visa stamps, backed up his story, and he even possessed a driver’s license from Taured alongside a checkbook from an unknown bank. When officers called up his company, they knew nothing about him, and the hotel that
the man claimed he had a res- strange machine with a man ervation for had no bookings who introduced himself as Jonas. Jonas said that he was on in his name. a work-related trip for some Both parties were equal- inter-dimensional travel agenly perplexed, and after some cy and had used the machine more interrogation, the man to transport Richards into his was taken to a nearby hotel. dimension to help him. Of There, two immigration offi- course, the most logical thing cials guarded his door until to do in this situation would the next morning, when they be to discuss pop culture, realized that the man had dis- which led them to the topic appeared without any trace, of The Beatles, a band which disturbing, because the only both the dimensions shared. other possible exit was a ledge- To Richards’ surprise, in this less window 15 stories above a alternate universe, The Beatles busy street. The Tokyo Police were all alive and still creating Department conducted exten- music. Richards brought back sive research, but turned up a souvenir cassette tape entiempty-handed. The man had tled Everyday Chemistry that apparently travelled back into was composed of Beatles songs his own dimension. that were never created in our world. Richards uploaded his Another story of inter-di- story and these songs onto his mensional travel is that of a website as well. name who goes by the pseudonym James Richards. On SepYet another anecdote is tember 9, 2009, Richards was that of a woman by the name running after his dog when he of Carol Chase McElheney. In tripped in a rabbit hole and 2006, as she was driving from knocked himself unconscious. Perris, California back to her When he woke up, he found home in San Bernardino, she himself in a room next to a decided to stop in her home-
town of Riverside. It didn’t take long for Carol to realize that she wasn’t in the right town, although the geographical location was correct. She claims she couldn’t find her childhood home, nor those of any other family members, although the building numbers were all correct. Even the cemetery where her grandparents had been buried was just a fenced area with overflowing weeds. Was she simply in the wrong town? This would could have been the case had she not found some other landmarks that were familiar, such as the local college and middle school. However, her relief in finding something familiar was short-lived, as she soon noticed the creepy vibe surrounding the residents walking around, to the point where she was too scared to get out of her car. She soon left the area and went back home. Carol believes that she had stumbled into an alternate dimension, where Riverside was a much darker place. Her story, however, cannot be confirmed
because when she returned to the town a few years later for her father’s funeral, everything had reverted back to the way she had remembered when she was a child. She never encountered the alternate Riverside again. These aren’t all – there are dozens more stories of supposed inter-dimensional teleportation. Skeptics and believers, alike, are baffled by some of these stories. Scientists are working on figuring out whether or not the concept of ‘parallel universes’ is real, but don’t seem to have any evidence. All these anecdotes are things people have said, meaning there is no scientific evidence behind them. To believe, or not to believe? That is the question.
long with the rapid rise in technological advancements, the world today sees a steady growth in the list of potential dangers that can emerge from the same. Concerns like “robots are the beginning of the end of humankind” and “artificial intelligence will overthrow humans and take their place in the world” are increasingly common today, and honestly, don’t seem so far-fetched anymore. With no new reason or evidence to believe in these theories, lately it appears that people have forgotten about these predictions. That is, until Photo: Mahindra Raj
those of real humans. However, by “superhumans,” Stephen Hawking expressed his fear of the emergence of literal “superhumans” in the world. He defines these beings as a small fraction of the human race that will have the power to redefine themselves by the processes of genetic manipulation, allowing them to alter their genes as they wish and to the extent that they desire. According to his essays, this ability will create ‘humans’ that are absolutely perfect in all aspects Hawking’s new theory of - from physical attributes to “superhumans” can be rather intelligence. deceiving at first glance, with Thanks to gene editing most people imagining robots with human-like features technology such as the CRISand abilities that supersede PR Cas9, this day is not far off, a few essays and papers of the renowned late physicist Stephen Hawking were published online a few months after his unfortunate demise. Known as one of the most brilliant minds of the century, it took no time before Hawking’s new theory became famous. In early October 2018, several media sources posted articles on ‘Hawking’s shocking predictions’ and rekindled the conversation of our place in the world, as humans, in the future.
as per Hawking’s speculations. The CRISPR Cas9 has proved to be a great tool in biomedicine and molecular biology, to the extent that it has saved thousands of lives across the world - for example, the treatment of various rare forms of leukaemia were conducted in a London hospital through the use of this genome editing innovation. However, at the fast rate of evolution in the gene editing fields, it may even be possible to not just ‘correct’ harmful genes, as is being done now, but also go as far as to make a perfect human with optimum intelligence, looks and behaviour.
in his essay that only the small, wealthy portion of the population will be able to afford this transformation and actively take part in it - opening doors to new forms of discrimination amongst ‘superhumans’ and those who remain “unimproved.” As Hawking puts it, “Once such superhumans appear, there are going to be significant political problems with the unimproved humans, who won’t be able to compete. Presumably, they will die out, or become unimportant. Instead, there will be a race of self-designing beings who are improving themselves at an ever-increasing rate. If the human race manages to redesign Stephen Hawking notes itself, it will probably spread
out and colonise other planets and stars.” While this might paint a picture of a perfect race lacking any faults, Hawking expressed his concern of the limitless advancements in the gene editing and artificial intelligence fields, to the extent of inflicting harm on ourselves by creating robots and even superhumans that will outsmart markets, leaders and current weaponry, leading to the downfall of the human community as it is now. As appalling as it seems, only time will tell whether Hawking’s speculation about superhumans will indeed become the reality of humankind, or if it will go down as
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Science
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Science
Photo : IStockPhoto
The Chameleon Effect By: Leena Siddiqui Animals have many ways to blend in with their environments. The leopard’s spots mimic the “dappled shadows” to camouflage, birds with coloured feathers blend in with the colours of the tall grass or tree bark, chameleons change the colour of their skin to match their surroundings. Those are just a few examples of how animals try to “fit in”, but what do humans do to adapt in social situations? They may not be able to change their skin colour or their accents as easily, however, people mimic others’ gestures, body lan-
guage, speech etc. The Chameleon Effect is the nonconscious mimicry of others’ mannerism, behaviours, facial expressions and posture. Tanya Chartrand, an assistant professor of psychology at Ohio State University, and John Bargh, a professor of psychology at New York University, call this phenomenon ‘the Chameleon Effect’.
students and asked them to discuss photos with a partner. In the first experiment, the partners, who were secretly actors, smiled, maintained neutral expressions, or jiggled their foot. These mannerisms were mimicked by the subject. They seemed to be unconscious actions: when the subjects were asked upon exiting, they said that they hadn’t even noticed their partner’s mannerisms and didn’t think that their own mannerisms were being studied.
proved the rapport between strangers. Here, partners were yet again paired with undercover actors who either mimicked their subjects’ mannerisms or maintained “neutral mannerisms”. The subjects tended to like their partners more when they mimicked their mannerisms as opposed to when they didn’t. Interestingly enough, however, when people are aware that they are being mimicked, they tend not to like the mimicker.
Chartrand and Bargh performed three experiments The third experiment that were able to roughly first used Davis's InterpersonIn the second experimap out the workings of the Chameleon Effect. They ex- ment, the team found that al Reactivity Index to measure perimented with 72 college this unconscious mimicry im- the subjects’ level of empa-
Photo : CFG
thy. This tests the likeliness of people stepping into another person’s perspective. The team found that the more empathetic someone was, the more likely they were to mimic their partners mannerisms. Since empathetic people pay more attention to those around them, it makes sense that they have a greater tendency to mimic. The Chameleon Effect shown here is to be based on the perception-behaviour link (the phenomenon that perception and behaviour are intertwined and inseparable). This explains why sensitive people are inclined to mimic others’ behaviours.
The Chameleon Effect is all around us and affects us without realizing. The unconscious mimicry improves rapport between friends, strangers, partners etc. It works like a social glue, helping people bond and promoting group cohesion. Looking back at my recent friendships, I am now noticing how I too mimic others’ speech and body language and its impact on the growth of my friendships, without knowing the Chameleon Effect was in action.
Photo : BetterHelp
Déjà Vu – Explained Better With Physics or Psychology? By: Smriti Sharma
that sometimes lump déjà vu in with phenomena like parat some point in their lives normal activity and psychokior another, individuals nesis. stumble upon a peculiar feelDéjà vu can be explained ing that a certain moment has through the realm of physics. happened before. This feeling One physicist, Michio Kaku is more commonly known by believes that it is possible to the term “déjà vu”. switch between universes, This eerie feeling has and that humans are waves not yet established a clear-cut vibrating waves given by the principle for its occurrence. short-interwave function Perhaps this is due to its short and that these waves vibrate duration, making it almost im- and split apart with time. The possible for scientists to seize Quantum theory states that it and conduct research. Déjà everyone consists of atoms vu can be explained by many that vibrate, but are no longer theories, such as dual process- in unison with the vibration of ing, parallel universes, event other universes as they have storage, and almost 30 other been decoupled and echoed plausible conjectures. How- from them, meaning that there ever, due to this complexity, is no connection between unithe limited studies done on verses. This theory is raththe subject experience biases, er complex, but in quantum
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physics, due to multiverses, individuals have decohered from them and no longer remain united. This is similar to a radio – only one frequency can be played at once, and likewise, humans can stay in one universe only due to the limitations of current technology. However, it is believed by psychologists that déjà vu is perceived as a symptom of temporal lobe epilepsy or schizophrenia – both chronic and severe disorders with little known causes. For example, people with schizophrenia may experience déjà vu that lasts longer and includes more intense feelings of depersonalization. That being said, it is untrue to say that only patients with such conditions
experience déjà vu, as research suggests that two-thirds of the population has experienced déjà vu at least once in their lives, meaning that people with psychiatric or medical illnesses are not the only ones. Frequently, déjà vu can be due to images travelling from one eye to the brain being delayed, thus arriving microseconds after images from the other eye. This might lead to the sensation that something has been seen for the second time. It is important to understand that remembering requires two processes to happen in the brain - first, it is the temporal lobe that recognizes familiarity, and then the hippocampus recalls it from the ‘past’ and pulls up the memo-
ry. These 2 process, familiarity and recall, work well together. However sometimes, when these two functions step out of sync, they can cause déjà vu. For example, sometimes the brain registers familiarity before it can remember why the thing is familiar. The creator of psychoanalysis – a form of literary criticism – Sigmund Freud, has explored many key concepts such as the parts of personality: ID, ego and superego, defence mechanisms such as sublimation, and the unconscious self. During his studies of déjà vu, he believed that it had to do with the memory of an unconscious dream where something seems familiar even though it has not experienced before.
Unsurprisingly, déjà vu is not the only concept that scientists have no answers for. The opposite of déjà vu is jamais vu, wherein the banal may seem unfamiliar. For example, one reads a word repeatedly for several times and feels unfamiliarity with it. Phenomena such as presque vu, déjà vécu, and déjà senti face bias due to the exact same roots. While several physicists argue that these phenomena can be explained by quantum theory, many others believe it is easier to comprehend them through psychology.
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Culture
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Culture
Photo: Meesha Hasan
The Rise of Asian Representation in Hollywood Photo: HighsNobiety
“
By: Albert Zhu
They’re gonna taste my venom.”
Venom stars Tom Hardy as Eddie Brock, a media journalist who gets terminated after attempting to write an exposé on Carlton Drake, a media and healthcare mogul who aims to use alien symbiotes found from outer space in a bid to conquer the world. After the lacklustre reception of Spider-Man 3 and The Amazing Spider-Man 2, fans have been getting sick of Sony-produced Marvel projects, leading to the character’s introduction into the Marvel Cinematic Universe in Captain America: Civil War and his solo debut in Spider-Man: Homecoming. As a result, while Sony is no longer producing films featuring everybody’s favourite webslinger, they DO have the rights to much of the character’s rogues’ gallery - meaning that antagonist-centric films
The film focuses on Brock, whose bond with the alien symbiote gets him both in and out of trouble - usually at the same time. Right away, one of the immediate positives that is apparent is the buddy-cop comedy relationship between Brock and the symbiote; unlike previous interpretations, Venom is unexpectedly humorous, an aspect of his personality that lends
character motivations. This shift affects the tone in very jarring ways as well; sometimes the film feels like a horror, other times a buddy-cop comedy, and - in the third act - a pumped-up action movie seeking to be the next Fast and Furious. Many people were pleasantly surprised with this tonal diversity. However, as a critic, the apparent indecisiveness on the part of the writers and director only serve to hold the film back from being foThe main issues with cused, sharp, and - to be frank Venom concern its plot and - something more. tone. The first half of the film Visually, the film is suris slower, evidently taking its time to build a world that prisingly mediocre as well; the would serve as the basis for opening sequence in space is an entire cinematic universe; so obviously computer-generhowever, the second half effec- ated that one could question tively takes this buildup and whether it was made in the chucks it out the window, in- 1980s, and even during certain stead opting for a high-adren- scenes the CGI for the alien aline pace that, for some rea- symbiotes is incredibly apparson, includes acceleration of ent. In terms of visual choices, the plot as well - a shift that some very strange ones are leads to unclear and some- made by the storyboarders; times completely reversed perhaps the most egregious greatly to his charm. Tom Hardy’s performance also does the role many favours; he plays a likable and sympathetic Eddie Brock who is very easy to root for against the villainous Carlton Drake, also played very well by Riz Ahmed. The performances and characters, for the most part, are excellent across the board, however, these are perhaps the most noteworthy positives that the film has to offer.
example is putting the BLACK symbiotes against the NIGHT sky, making them hard to see and distinguish. This lack of clarity is only exacerbated by the overly-complicated final fight, which looks more like a Jackson Pollock painting than the climactic ending of a superhero movie. What saves Venom from being complete garbage is its inherent charm, particularly the very apparent chemistry between Brock and the symbiote. Surprisingly, the utter stupidity of the script lends to its enjoyability, placing greater focus on the characters rather than the story - a choice that, in this case, was a blessing in disguise. Ultimately, Venom is a very jarring film; what it does well it does VERY well, but what it doesn’t do as well is incredibly apparent.
question is: what makes these ver the summer, we expe- films stand out? rienced record-high temperatures, fun memoriesv and To start off, To All the incredible freedom from fin- Boys I’ve Loved Before is a ishing the school year. How- Netflix film based off the New ever, an undeniable highlight York Times Bestseller trilogy was the Asian representation by Jenny Han. The plot highthat was presented over the lights teen Lara Jean and her summer of ’18. I’m sure that (awkward) experience as her most of us have heard of the secret love letters are sent out recent summer films, To All to her crushes. What makes the Boys I’ve Loved Before and the film so special is the feCrazy Rich Asians. These films male Asian lead, played by received serious buzz; but Lana Condor. Many films there are thousands of rom- have starred Asian actors and com films out there. So the actresses, but Asian leads are
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Venom: Movie Review in the vein of Venom are very likely in the works, with it being the first of the bunch. However, because of its lack of Spider-Man and its connections to Sony, the film has been the subject of a lot of hate and criticism even prior to its release. Vastly unanticipated and panned by critics, Venom is, admittedly, a rocky film - however, despite its many missteps and shortcomings, it still manages to be fun and enjoyable, making it a film that is, at its heart, an enjoyable popcorn flick that deserves a chance.
By: Carmen Chuong
necessarily make it a BAD one. While the narrative, character motivation and tonal issues certainly hold it back, the charm and wit of its protagonists carry the film and save it from being completely disposable like other Sony ventures (*cough* The Amazing Spider-Man 2). Unfortunately, the aforementioned problems do prevent it from being thoroughly enjoyable and make it actively clashing at times. Perhaps the extended cut will remedy these issues, but for now, Venom - much like its titular protagonist - is chaotic, discordant, and possibly in need of a greater connection to Spider-Man.
Photo: CNBC
I’m going to give Venom a 6/10. Venom is an incredibly DUMB movie, but that doesn’t Photo: oilandgaspeople.com
very rare, especially in a romantic comedy film. As seen through popular rom-coms such as The Holiday and Pretty Woman, there is an immense lack of Asian representation in this genre. In addition to the very relatable Asian lead, the film features dynamic chemistry between the stars and a light yet fun storyline. It is understandable why the film still continues to break the internet and why hearts across the world continue to throb for Peter Kavinsky.
The other film that has received a lot of chatter is Crazy Rich Asians. The title itself sounds a little bizarre, so to summarize, the film is about Rachel Chu, an American professor that lives a simple life and her experience meeting her boyfriend’s wealthy family. The movie features an allAsian cast, including the stunning Constance Wu and the charming Henry Golding. An all-Asian cast is a very unfamiliar concept in Hollywood, and many are thrilled by this treat as Crazy Rich Asians
continues to take over the internet. When watching it, I was thrilled to see the points of Asian culture that Western culture may not be familiar with. This includes the scene of the family wrapping dumplings, mahjong and the classic Chinese soundtrack that I grew up listening to. I also enjoyed the important, yet enjoyable reference to the struggles of people trying to impress their in-laws, especially within Asian culture. Furthermore, for those
who are nervous about watching the film due to being scared of not being able to relate to the Asian references, have no fear! The film is in English and the light humour is bound to appeal to all viewers, earning itself a 93% on Rotten Tomatoes. To conclude, the production of these films made me very excited and to see both films doing so well and being appreciated by so many people, it truly makes me proud to say that I am Asian.
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Editorial
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Sports
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The Twenty-First Century Music Industry: Needs Work twenty-first century retains According to a study done by its gender gaps, inappropriate USC Annenberg Inclusion hances are you have seen portrayals, and sellouts. Initiative, reported by The a trending headline about Rolling Stone, out of the songs a female in the music indusAlthough there are nu- on the Billboard Hot 100 over try dressed a certain way, or merous legendary and bloom- the past 6 years, only twelve a music video where multi- ing female artists in the mu- were written by females, and ple women accompany a man sic industry today along with the ratio of female producers construing an extravagant men, there are not many in to male producers is one to lifestyle with soaring numbers the “behind-the-scene” works forty-nine. A prime example on YouTube. Maybe you have of creating music such as of this is Billboard’s Power 100 also seen a male artist get- producing, disc-jockeying List which only had 15 women ting praised for singing about (more commonly known as in 2015, 12 in 2016, and only women in a disrespectful “DJ-ing”), and songwriting. a handful in 2017 and 2018. manner, or several men stand- In this day and age, wom- In 2018, wouldn’t you have ing behind a woman as she en are yet to lead in the mu- thought there would be more wins an award for her album. sic industry with a variety of of an equal representation? This is no uncommon phe- roles instead being the one nomenon. Despite the global up for display as an artist. These numbers only movements taking place and serve to emphasize the large society voicing their opinOnly one in five wom- gender gap still present in the ions, the music industry in the en are recognized producers. music industry to this day,
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By: Tehreem Iqbal
which may seem unusual with the strong presence of women in adverts and in the media. Marketing for men and women alike often falsely portray the “perfect” body, with the use of women in revealing clothing. Whether it’s men’s perfume or prom apparel and album covers, to silhouettes on awards and trophies, it’s there. Nowadays, matching societal standards is a often a prerequisite to praise and recognition on the web, encouraging conformity with the latest. Likewise, anyone that rises up to fame from breaking the internet can get record deals, signed to star in cinematic productions and win awards
when Kanye West said Taylor Swift owed him pleasure, Robin Thicke’s Blurred Lines and music video perpetuated women as amenities, and Kesha Women are consistently filed a lawsuit against the man used in most cases as luxurious who sexually assaulted her? objects to depict a rich style of In a world where the inliving. This is not perceived as a problem to the general pub- ternet first-handedly chooses lic until a female artist steps in which entertainer to bring into to do the same, saying she is the industry and votes for the Artist of the Year at the AMAs, empowered and confident. why can’t there be a brightAriana Grande’s God Is er light shed on the problem A Woman (which is a meta- with the lack of women “bephor boasting how “great” she hind the scenes” of music? is) and other song lyrics are called out constantly for objectification when Grande is simply stepping up and taking the lead. Where were these people when beforehand, an artist and their team would have to work hard for several years for such progress and achievements.
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Photo: Christopher Serra
Naomi Osaka Triumphs in Controversial U.S. Open Finals
Straight-A… Teachers? Photo: TeckBooky
By: Emily Cao It’s report card season at Glenforest—not just for students, but for teachers too. At first glance, students grading teachers seems like a ludicrous idea. But if you think about it, it’s not that far-flung of a concept. Doesn’t everyone benefit from constructive criticism on their work? And who sees teachers’ work the most? As their students, it’s us. Sure, teachers are already being evaluated by their employers: A skim through standardized test score differences
between years (which exist few and far between to begin with, as EQAO happens only in Grades Three, Six and Nine), and the occasional surprise visit from the school principal or a school board trustee, who observes a class every now and then. But here’s the thing— evaluators only stick around for maybe one day, whereas students have classes with their teacher for one hundred and ninety-four days a year. Would a trustee scrutinizing a single class really know if this teacher can explain lessons clearly? Can EQAO scores
tell you why our class average economist, Ronald Ferguson, dropped from a 3+ to a 3- this discovered that out of 199,000 surveys, less than 0.5% of stuyear? dents filled in the same answer Of course, there lies an for the first ten questions. inherent risk in any sort of Therefore, even if there were a opinion evaluation: Answers few students who held grudgmay be skewed due to the es against their teacher, their student’s own personal bias answers wouldn’t be enough against the teacher. Maybe to affect the overall validity of they’re failing the course; re- student opinion. taliating by giving their teacher a low rating, and there’s alBut wait—doesn’t such a ways that one person who just grading system already exist? wants to mess with the results, It’s called Rate My Teachers, or really doesn’t care. and it lets you… rate your teachers. You’re right, someA survey in a small school thing similar is already in district by Harvard research- place, but having visited the er and MIT-trained veteran website myself, I can tell you
By: Rehana Lalani
that it’s not particularly helpful. For one, it’s not monitored in any way, and comments seldom give you an informative idea of the teacher. More importantly, the website is generally geared towards student-to-student teacher feedback, and most teachers will never read these remarks. To be effective, a system for grading teachers must be controlled by the school board, to ensure teachers receive and read the feedback from their students. Such a system shouldn’t just be used to critique teachers either; exceptional teachers who make
their classes comprehensible, challenging, and enjoyable should be acknowledged, in more than just snatches of hallway conversation between students. Feedback is valuable. Even if it's not used in the formal assessment of a teacher, survey answers and results can provide insightful advice to teachers for the following year. How well their lessons were understood, the classroom environment, how challenging the work was, all from the very people who define their jobs: us, the students.
Already dubbed as ‘the match of the century,’ the US Open Women’s Finals 2018 has left a lasting impression on millions of viewers internationally. With the air full of palpable tension and the second set charged with furious accusations, broken rackets, and buckets of tears, the match could not have been more memorable. The finals took place on September 8, 2018, at Flushing Meadows in New York City. The court was filled with thousands of spectators who were eagerly waiting to see 36-year-old Serena Williams, a crowd favourite with 23 Grand
two. Williams was heard to have said, “I have never cheated in my life. I would rather lose than cheat- you owe me an apology.” Williams continued to play, though possibly losing her focus, as when Osaka broke in the fifth game, Williams decided to demolish The first set proceeded her racket, earning her yet anwithout any major alterca- other point penalty. tions, with Osaka emerging With the odds not in her successful in a 6-2 win. Quickfavour, Williams soon received ly into the second set, Patrick a game penalty for a court vioMouratoglou, Williams’ coach, lation due to her verbal abuse. was caught cheating when he She unleashed her fury on the made hand motions to coach chair umpire again, saying, Williams as she played. Wil“You will never, ever be on liams was given a violation another court of mine as long from the chair umpire, Carlos Ramos, which resulted in as you live. You are the liar! a heated debate between the When are you going to give Slam wins, who had recently returned to tennis after having a child. Her opponent, new and young 20-year-old Naomi Osaka from Japan, had already made history by being the first Japanese woman to play in a U.S. Open Final.
me my apology? You owe me an apology! Say it. Say you’re sorry…and you stole a point from me. You’re a thief too!” However, the chair umpire did not relinquish his position, and shortly after, Osaka was titled the US Open Champion in Women’s Singles after winning the second set 6-4. However, the win for Osaka was bittersweet, as the crowd was filled with mixed emotions. William’s supporters were enraged about her treatment from Carlos Ramos, and strongly believed that this was the reason she did not win the championship. The award ceremony for Naomi Osaka’s win was smattered with boos,
and the young victor looked as if she was about to burst into tears. Williams tried to pacify the crowd, saying “I don’t want to be rude. She played well. Let’s make this the best moment we can, let’s not boo anymore.” The tense and controversial night ended in Osaka receiving a $3.8 million-dollar cheque and the Grand Slam Trophy. Subsequently, the Women’s Tennis Association released a statement after the match which read, “There are matters that need to be looked into that took place during the match. For tonight, it is time to celebrate these two amazing players, both who have great
integrity.” Although the match is still being heavily debated, many tennis spectators still look forward to what the next meeting of these two champions will bring.
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Sports
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Horoscopes
Zodiac Signs: Cities Johannesburg, South Africa Aries MAR 20 - APR 19
Ever the daredevil, the adventurous Aries loves to live life on the edge. So why not scale the edge of a beautiful mountain, go on a safari and play with the the lions, or dance the night away at a jazz club in the beautiful city of Johannesburg?
Copenhagen, Denmark
Libra SEPT 22 - OCT 23
Bordeaux, France
Taurus APR 20 - MAY 20 Photo: OMEDOV
T
op to bottom, UFC 229 lived up to the hype. Former two-weight champion, Ireland’s Conor McGregor was scheduled to fight the undefeated champion, Russia’s Khabib Nurmagomedov, for the lightweight title. The division’s most elite striker faced off against the game’s most dominant, unconquered grappler; nobody could be certain about whose style would dominate the other’s in what was advertised as “the biggest fight in UFC history.” Fans were also riled up for the Irishman’s return to the UFC after taking a 2 year leave of absence to fight Floyd “Money” Mayweather in his biggest paycheck to date.
The fight’s buildup is also one of the most memorable in recent history - from provocative insults thrown back and forth between the two fighters, to Conor throwing a dolly through Khabib’s bus back in UFC 223. Whichever storyline is more appealing is up to you to decide, but the fight was undeniably intriguing, regardless of the angle you took. Khabib opened up the fight with his signature takedown, winning round one and two in dominant fashion. Conor came back strong with a few hard punches to win the third, but after getting the takedown in round four
and working his way to high mount, Khabib eventually secured the victory by choking Conor out via neck crank and forcing a tap. What could have been a high point for not only Khabib’s night but also his career was quickly overshadowed by his decision to jump the fence to attack Conor’s corner and training partners. An all out-brawl ensued, with Conor being jumped by three of Khabib’s teammates, all landing good hard shots to the head before being dragged away by security. It was dramatic, to say the least. Khabib was not given the belt, and the two fighters were taken backstage, away from the public, to avoid further questioning.
UFC President Dana White was visibly disappointed with the entire situation, stating “The most upset person after the fight that night was me.” The situation has since blown up, and things are not looking good for the Russian and his corner. Three of Khabib’s teammates have been arrested, there are talks of stripping Khabib of his green card, and the chances of his father obtaining a VISA for US residency are close to none. The Russian made a surprise appearance during the postfight conference, in which he not only apologised for his actions, but also slammed the
UFC’s hypocrisy for endorsing Conor’s actions yet condemning his own. “I no understand how people can talk about I jump on cage. [McGregor] talk about my religion, he talk about my country, he talk about my father. He come to Brooklyn and he broke bus. He almost kill a couple people, worry about this [expletive]. Why people talk about I jump on cage? Why people still talk about this? I no understand… Everyone who knows me, they know who I am.” Even though he did not attend the postfight conference, Conor posted a picture on social media following the fight with the caption, “I will be back.”
The Nevada Commission has since taken full authority in determining punishments for all parties involved, and the world of sports seems extremely nervous for what might be coming. Regardless, Khabib seems to have shaken off any and all signs of anxiousness. His victory tour, as well as meeting with Russian president Vladimir Putin, are all signs of the fighter's ongoing confidence, and both his and Conor’s anticipated returns to the Octagon will be a joy to watch.
London, England
Scorpio OCT 24 - NOV 21
Gemini MAY 21 - JUNE 20
This ancient city has an astounding amount of history behind its name. It’s full of stunning architecture, vibrant cultures, chic marketplaces and incredible food. The versatile Gemini needs a city like Rome to quench their thirst for knowledge and satisfy their impulsive and seemingly shallow needs, bringing out your youthfulness and providing food for thought for your old soul.
Sagittarius NOV 22 - DEC 21
Cancer JUNE 21 - JULY 22
Capricorn DEC 22 - JAN 19
Leo JULY 23 - AUG 22
Aquarius JAN 20 - FEB 18
Photo: UFC CANADA
Virgo AUG 23 - SEPT 21
Aquarius, you're curious by nature, imaginative and optimistic. You're a bit of a wanderer, your perfect city is one where there is something new to discover every day. You’ll love the beautiful architecture, the dazzling culture, and the flavourful food of this eccentric city. Maybe you’ll even find the time to learn a new language (or five!) in the diverse cultural hub of India’s largest city: Mumbai.
Playa Rincon, Puerto Rico
Vancouver, British Columbia Virgos are earth signs, harmonious and grounded but bustling with energy. Virgos love the great outdoors, but they also love the hustle and bustle of the city! So listen to the sounds of nature: the lush deciduous forests, rolling green hills, and snowy Rockies of Vancouver, BC are calling your name!
Capricorns are bright, strong-willed people with colour-coded planners and alphabetized bookshelves. Your meticulous nature will help you to not only survive, but thrive in the cutthroat competition in the city of strong will and ambition. You belong in the city that never sleeps: you don’t take naps when you’re so attached to the hustle. So book a ticket to NYC, this concrete jungle will have to quicken its pace to keep up with you!
Mumbai, India
Barcelona, Spain The bright and energetic Leo needs a city as youthful and vibrant as its soul. Dance your nights away in a beautiful, bohemian, Spanish city where mid-day naps are an essential cultural staple to prepare for the endless nights. Your sunny personality and positive carefree vibes will fit right in in the summer-y city of Barcelona.
Sagittarius is a wanderer by nature. You yearn to backpack through Central and South America, your world map is dotted with pushpins on all the world’s big cities; you are an individualistic soul with a thirst for adventure and a deep desire for travel. Throughout your life you’ll want to call a dozen different cities home, but what better place to settle than, the beautiful city of Paris. Full of culture and adventure, Paris is a stunning city bustling with other bold individualists such as yourself.
New York City, USA
Honolulu, Hawaii
Cancers are chill, beach-loving water signs. Your loving, spiritual personality needs a place where you can be free. Swim in hidden waterfalls, hike through the lush jungle forests and ride a sick wave on your new surfboard. At the end of the day, you can lean back to watch a beautiful, blazing red sunset dip beneath the Pacific Ocean on the beach in the beautiful island of Honolulu.
A strong-willed Scorpio loves to be challenged. Your braveness and determination gets you far in life, your ambition and drive propel you even further. So the bustling city of London is the perfect place for you to find your calling as you immerse yourself in the cultural hubs of Southall, Kensington, Buckingham and more. Though, you would need the Scorpio ambition just to find an affordable place to live.
Paris, France
Rome, Italy
UFC 229: The Calm Before the Storm by: Zaki Machfj
Taurus has an unquenchable thirst for all the finer things in life. You want to be treated like royalty and live in a beautiful chateau surrounded by breathtaking art, scenic greenery, and amazing food. Bordeaux has all that and more with its amazing collection of galleries, historic chateaux, Michelin-star restaurants and more.
Libras are sophisticated urbanites with a kind and easygoing nature. You'll feel right at home in the playful but sophisticated city of Copenhagen. Denmark’s high end city of luxurious fashion and delectable gourmet cuisine will satisfy your taste for the finer things.
Pisces FEB 19 - MAR 20
Pieces! You’re a chill and laid back water sign that just likes to take things slow. You love to relax, bask in sunlight on a summer day, and eat fish tacos until you’re stuffed. The quaint beach city life would work for you, especially a small, beautiful town like Playa Rincon in Puerto Rico.
VOLUME 28, ISSUE 1 Fall 2018 PAGE 22
Comics By: Victoria Shyshkin
By: Mariam Zahid
By: Uzma Sahi
By: Uzma Sahi
By: Jillian Xu
By: Sophia Naveed
By: Alice Guo
Journalists
Credits: Continued:
Safwaan Shaikh Rehana Lalani Mateja Perc Tehreem Iqbal Ruth Zelleke Carmen Chuong Smriti Sharma Benjamin Mah Aliza Lallani Leena Siddiqui Mira Ewadh Sharvani Yadav
Layout Designers
Aliza Lallani Jessica Li Dhanya Kalaiselvan
Photographers
Siane Sahdra Tarek Alkorani Samiksha Babbar Rachna Venkatesh Deepasri Dattaraghava Aya Barakat Roop Sanghu Dhanya Kalaiselvan Meesha Hassan
Cover Designer Eric Zhang