ACADEMICS

ACADEMICS theapachepowwow.com

October 2016

FIND THE CURE TO YOUR WRITER’S BLOCK

By NOELLE NATIVIDAD

Staff Writer

You know exactly what you’re going to say if you could just find the words, or maybe you don’t. Maybe that’s the problem—you’re just plain out of ideas.

This is a chronic disorder that plagues all writers, even those who aren’t so inclined to call themselves so. In the English language, we have a name for it. We call it “writer’s block”. That’s the idea. There’s a wall separating you and your essay, and to get over is a true trial of determination and creativity.

Writer’s block is unavoidable, inevitable, and common, but there are ways to get over the metaphorical block and it all stems from a different viewpoint.

Jeff Goins, a writer and entrepreneur, described it as a condition that “happens to every writer. It’s inevitable. Your prose has turned to mush, you don’t have a creative bone left in your body, and you want to throw in the towel.” We all know that feeling. Maybe it’ll be minutes, hours, or even days before you come up with a solid idea, and there are times where this may slide, but for the rough deadlines, you might want to try these brainstorming tricks to get over it.

1. Identify the cause. Stress causes writer’s block as much as a lack of ideas does. When you’re coming up mere hours before an essay is due and you take that time to doubt whether it’s possible, you’ve just dug your own hole. In moments like these, close the laptop and take a few breaths. Remember your purpose and what you like readers to gain from your writing. Also, avoid “perfectionism”. Goins noted, “You want everything to be just right before you ever put pen to paper or touch a keyboard. You try to get it perfect in your head and never do, so you never begin.” This often creates a major block in fluidity, so when facing that critic within, simply writing everything may be more productive than sitting and staring.

2. Think about other things. Maybe you just need to set it aside for a few minutes, so just switch to a different subject for ten or so minutes and come back. This gives your brain a short break to come back refreshed and with a different perspective.

3. What are you trying to say? This method often involves outlining or simply writing down things that you like. Create a list of the things you want readers to feel or see, this leads to creating sentence structures from your comprehensive outline.

4. Start over. This is the last hurrah of writing, especially when it comes to deadlines. If you are completely unsatisfied with the work you produced or with how it reads to the audience, find a new perspective. Look at your topic and find things that relate to you and that you are passionate about, because passionate writers make the best pieces. Pulling an abstract topic may also be helpful. Think of something as simple as the color blue and write something creative.

With all of this in mind, get over that hurdle and write something you love. Writer’s block, though irritating, leads to the best breakthroughs, simply because the writer is able to reevaluate his or her purpose. In some cases, it may even be helpful. So, for the writer in you, push through for the sake of writing and create something you are truly proud of!

nnatividad@apachepowwow.com Graphics by DONNA SAYPHRARAJ

FOILED AGAIN?

By KAYLI MAK

Staff Writer

Test anxiety is terrible. The impending sense of doom one gets during the hours before a test is an awful feeling. I happen to be excellent at tearing at my hair and sobbing over textbooks. That’s the way it has always been.

Obviously, if you haven’t studied, freaking out before your test is only natural. Teachers often say that if you know the material, you shouldn’t have any reason to be nervous. I don’t believe that. Sometimes, even if you’re the smartest person in the world, you blank out, putting a serious dent in your currently decent grades. For this reason, there is always a reason to be nervous.

Still, it doesn’t hurt to study a little harder. When I’m studying, my friends just happen to appear out of nowhere. Though I relentlessly tell them that their presence is distracting, their constant antics seem to interfere with my packed schedule of stressing out, crying, and stressing out again. That’s just one example of how studying can go wrong. When my studying is interrupted, I tend to spend a longer time internally screaming than actually studying, and that’s not good, especially when I actually have to study in order to assure myself that I’ll actually succeed. So, the big idea here is to make sure you study well.

My juvenile middle school habit was to have “test rituals”. This was mainly just to psychologically prepare myself for the test. I should probably mention that this exercise was just to ensure my personal sanity. I wore bracelets, “lucky” t-shirts, and woke up exactly 30 minutes earlier than usual to pick up the textbook (and to fall back asleep on it). Those ridiculous things I did took my mind off of the various tests long enough for me to relax, even if it was just for a little bit.

If none of the previous methods have worked, then I suggest swaddling yourself in a blanket (optional) and propping the textbook (and the notes you can dig up) in front of your face. Even if I’m not scrutinizing my notes like some sort of evil scientist, I find that this tricks my mind into believing that I’m being somewhat productive, and being “productive” is always good.

As a whole, if your test anxiety is affecting your ability to actually take the test, then you should probably talk to your teacher. Otherwise, a little stress can be a good thing. It just shows that you care and forces you to study a little harder, and working a little harder is always appreciated.

JUGGLING PRIORITIES

By ROSELIND ZENG

Staff Writer

“Homework. Sports! Afterschool. TEST!… Sleep? Who has time to sleep anymore?!” So much to do and so little time to complete the daunting tasks at hand. You can’t simply wish these problems away— oh no—it’s never that easy. Your fingers sliding rapidly across the keyboard draws the attention of everyone, while you sit there and review the questionable quality of the essay that’s to be handed in tomorrow.

But then we wonder: is there a better way of going about our learning careers; a more sophisticated path amidst the blunder and chaos of our to-do lists? When the pressure of education clashes with the responsibility of society, what’s the best course of action?

The most important thing to remember when keeping our lives in check is to have a plan. For example, if you have a quiz, a test, and a sports match all in the same week, set aside time to study on top of training. Everything is much simpler if it’s written out, than when you improvise upon your schedule.

When enacting the goals you’ve set for yourself on paper, stability and time management are what keeps your life from falling apart. We’ve all had those times when we procrastinate, reassuring our conscience with “I’ll do it later”, but if you maintain a stable schedule, and get rid of all the distractions that come your way during the week, you’ll find that you become more productive.

And lastly, if you want to balance out your busy schedule, then it should be natural to be ahead of the game. If you feel like you’re cranking out work every second but it never satiates the monstrous workload you have, then try to do the work before you’re required to. Preview the chapter, and take notes before the teacher lectures on it. That way, you gain knowledge and make room for in-depth discussions in class. Review for a test over a course of a few days; this is more effective than that of cramming the night before. Know important dates that are coming up, so that you can attend to what you need and not be so strung out, not knowing what’ll pop up next.

Being in high school is sometimes a daunting task. If you employ the right tactics and be aware of what’s coming your way, however, you’ll achieve many great things in school, and in life.

By SARAH WANG

Staff Writer

AHS is known for its massive student population and endless opportunities. With a campus this large, that means that there’s a niche for each and every student to fit into. Whether that niche is a club, sports team, class, or academic team, AHS has one for you. If you’re looking for a meaningful and challenging cause to dedicate your time to, search no further! AHS has 11 top-ranked and equally outstanding academic teams for you to enter. There are clubs of all kinds, shapes, and sizes, from Speech and Debate’s (SD) 123-member family to Academic Decathlon’s (AcaDeca) close-knit 20-member group, and there’s definitely one for you!

AcaDeca prides itself on being the oldest nationally-recognized competition for highschool students. Team members compete in seven categories: Art, Economics, Language and Literature, Music, Science, Social Science, and Math, that all focus around a theme that changes yearly (with the exception of math). Decathletes also compete in subjective categories: Essay, Interview, and Speech.

If studying isn’t for you, but public speaking’s more your thing, try SD! Even if you have no experience whatsoever, JV and Varsity members will be there to guide you along the way and train you to be the best in your events.

Perhaps you love the thrill of public speaking but have an insatiable desire for expressing your creativity? Destination Imagination is a national high school program that teaches creativity, teamwork, and problem-solving. Teams use their quick thinking and open imagination to create effective solutions to their problems.

Not all of us are creative masterminds, but there are those who can truly appreciate the fine art of social sciences. History Bowl (HB) is the top-ranked team in Southern California and one of the most successful HB programs in the entire nation! If that wasn’t impressive enough, AHS sent three Quiz Bowl (QB) teams to the national championships last year and sure enough, QB took home the national champion title. Don’t be scared away by the prestige of QB, it’s students just like you that lead the way to success. If you are currently a junior, then be sure to try out for Gov. Team next year. Known as Constitution Team and formally known as We The People: the Citizen and the Constitution, Gov Team flew all the way to Washington D.C. last year after making it to the national championships! The 30 Gov. Team members are divided into six units, each focusing on one aspect of the Constitution, and compete by answering the judges’ questions in mock congressional hearings.

Finally, STEM subjects are always hugely popular in high schools. That’s why AHS has five teams dedicated to math and science! Math Team is an award-winning team that fosters a passion and skill in many levels of math through team competitions as well as individual write-ins. Arcadia’s Physics Team placed 2nd in California and 8th nationally and internationally! Physics Team trains its members to compete in the Physics Olympiad and also to achieve 1st place in all of its many competitions. Ocean Sciences Bowl (OSB) is also a fantastic team to join, especially living so close to the Pacific Ocean. OSB explores all ocean-related science topics, ranging from oceanic crust compositions to coral reef systems. Last but not least, Science Bowl competes in buzzer-competition rounds about all things science and gets the opportunity to compete in JPL’s annual Science Bowl tournament!

So now you know all about AHS’ amazingly diverse academic teams on campus! If , perhaps, your interest has been piqued, more information can be found on ASB’s website. Go for it, and try one, or even try all of them—you never know where you might find your next passion!

swang@apachepowwow.com

Graphics by ANDREA LIU Photos by CATHLEEN HUANG, FRANCES CHEUNG, and NATHAN GUO

By FRANCES CHEUNG

Staff Writer

AHS is a place that provides students with many opportunities to learn, try new things, and test their knowledge. One of them is the chance to tutor other students. Tutoring opportunities can not only allow students to help others and contribute to the well-being of the school, but can also test how well their own knowledge is on the topic. The process of tutoring can improve students’ abilities to understand the material they teach, since you need to know the topic well in order to be able to tutor someone else on it. Often, students who are interested in the process of tutoring apply for Peer Tutoring and Outreach programs which accept new tutors semesterly, or sign up for fee-based tutoring at the Career Center. However, students tutoring for the first time can also run into some struggle when attempting to help their peers understand the material. Although they understand the concepts well, it can be difficult to explain concepts to someone who has a different mindset from you.

1. Just remember that tolerance and patience are key.

Arguably, the most important characteristic of a good tutor is having a high tolerance and patience, even when things get difficult. Remember, different people learn at different rates. Although some subjects might seem like a breeze for you, they can be overwhelmingly difficult for someone else. Always be patient with your tutee, and break things down as much as possible until he or she finally gets it. One of the worst things you could do as a tutor is to lose your patience. Always remember that your tutee is trying his or her best, and just keep calm!

2. Never multitask while tutoring.

Tutoring while doing your own homework or surfing the Web is never the way to be a good tutor. First of all, the notion is just rude in general. In addition, you can’t give your maximum attention to your job of tutoring when multitasking, and the tutee can even feel scared to ask you questions if he or she sees that you are distracted. Even if he or she is just working a problem out, make sure you watch over him or her and double check that he or she isn’t doing anything wrong while he or she works. When you’re tutoring, always remember to give your 100%.

3. Don’t ever imply that your tutee isn’t smart.

This isn’t a race. You might’ve understood something quicker than your tutee, but all your tutee needs is more time until he or she eventually gets to your level. There is no need to imply anything that might lower someone else’s self confidence.

4. Share your own experiences.

It’s more than possible that you’ll experience it—while tutoring, you can realize that you had the exact same problems as your tutee when you were learning the subject. Don’t be afraid to share your own experiences of what you did and what you realized along the way when you were in his or her shoes. You never know—something that helped you understand the concept might just give your tutee that last push he or she needs.

5. Be a friend

Remember that you are simply a student, and you are only helping your peer understand something he or she wasn’t sure of. You aren’t there to take the place of his or her teacher, but to simply there to sit with him or her until you can work through it. Always be friendly, and make sure that your tutee feels comfortable! It’s never a bad thing to make new friends.

By ALYSSA RAVE

Staff Writer

With Halloween just around the corner, all types of stores are transforming their themes for the holiday. Popular brands will release new spooky packaging and deals that are to die for. It’s no surprise that all types of candies become fun-sized and king-sized to fit with the Halloween theme, but some candy brands absolutely top all makeovers of the season. Here are the top eight candies to buy during this Halloween season!

1. Kit-Kats

Kit-Kats crown the pyramid of Halloween candy with multiple flavors and a classic formula. There are dark chocolate Kit-Kats the size of your head, or white chocolate mini Kit-Kats that can’t reach the tip of your pinkie finger! It’s a great candy no matter what taste and size combination you choose.

2. M&M’s

M&M’s are the next best sweets to purchase during October. The brand releases giant bags, which offer a great deal based on normal prices and quantity. Not to mention, its packaging annually undergoes an entirely new look to fit the eerie theme of Halloween. The multiple kinds of chocolate, including peanut and pretzel, make for a great Halloween experience!

3. Sour Patch Kids

This amazing candy is one of the best. A turn of sour and sweet for all, one deeply welcomed. Sour Patch is a special candy that works for people with allergies to other common ingredients. This candy is here to stay, as its enormous bags of it to little pass-out packages are an addicting choice of treats.

4. Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups

The Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups are hauntingly good. With traditional packaging for other holidays, such as Christmas and Easter, the line transforms into Reese’s Peanut Butter Pumpkins for Halloween. The brand still offers bags of fun size or large individual cups, combos that are simple but yummy.

5. Skittles

If you find yourself hosting a fun Halloween party for you and your friends, try your hand in purchasing Skittles, a more sour turn to traditional candy. With more flavors being introduced and packaging becoming customized in various sizes, the company hosts generous deals that leave the customer winning a great steal on candy.

6. Snickers

The Snickers candy bar is tasty chocolate that is available in all types of sizes. During October, this brand of candy typically makes its other versions known, such as almond and triple chocolate. The assortment of all aspects of the candy is refreshing, and Snickers is a safe treat to stock up on for Halloween.

7. Starburst

Similarly to Skittles, Starburst has an array of flavors including tropical, original or the Halloween mix. This juicy candy has such a big deal going for it, accounting for its small size. Starbursts come in bags of miniatures, rolls of six or large bags. The age-old candy makes its way onto the list for its variations and different packaging.

8. Crunch

The Crunch chocolate bar brings this list to a close, with its similar lay-out to the 100 Grand, but another bracing reason to stay. The candy’s fun-size bar builds onto its rice crisps with a little more chocolate than expected, and the larger bar is a great way to balance the flavors of the ingredients. Crunch is a bit more expensive than 100 Grand, but it is still a nice candy to eat once in awhile. The bar often goes overlooked, but during Halloween, there’s no doubt it will make a comeback.

arave@apachepowwow.com Graphic courtesy of KAITLYN LIAO

By KAITLIN LEE & VIVIAN KWANG

Staff Writers

October, the month of spooks, scares, and peculiarity. On Sept. 30, director Tim Burton dropped a horrific, thrilling movie titled Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children, adapted from Ransom Riggs’ world-renowned novel. With Burton’s reputation for directing weird and creepy movies, this movie was bound to be bizarre. It was as if Riggs wrote the book knowing that Burton would eventually turn it into a hit blockbuster movie. Once again, Burton delivered his unique style to the big screen, bringing Miss Peregrine and her children to vivid life. This movie was filled with nightmare-reincarnated monsters, time traveling, and of course, people with supernatural abilities. As if it was already impossible to add more creative features, the majority of the movie was set during World War II.

In this eerie movie, there were a variety of people with special powers. The most notable characters were Jake, the protagonist who can see the Hollows; the monsters that threaten the lives of Peculiars; Miss Peregrine, who can turn into a bird and create time loops so that the day starts over; Enoch, who is essentially a puppet master and can turn abiotic things biotic by adding organs, such as the heart; and Emma, who is lighter than air and has the power to control and manipulate the air. The side characters also stood out in this movie, each one bringing his or her own peculiarity to the table.

When Jake’s grandfather is found dead in a forest, Jake goes hysteric and thinks he’s insane. He remembers as a young boy when his grandfather would tell him stories about his time in the home for peculiar children. When Jake finds evidence that all these stories are true, he and his father venture out to an outlying island near Wales. When he finds the home for peculiar children, he gets stuck in a time

As a lover of anything freaky or absurd, we truly did enjoy this movie. We loved the CGI effects, the sets, and most of all, the plot. The plot was so fascinating that we began to think, was there a limit to Riggs’ imagination? We were at the edge of our seats the entire time, wondering what would happen next to the peculiar children. The plot was also filled with some humorous moments, making us love the film even more. Lastly, the CGI effects

loop and he transported to the year 1943. Every day, before a bomb is dropped on the house due to the war, Miss Peregrine would reset the day. While there, Jake learns more about his grandfather and about this new world he entered. The more time he spends with the peculiar children, the more he starts to learn about himself and his new-found ability. Since he’s the only one who can see the Hollows that threaten the lives of Peculiars, it’s his duty to save Miss Peregrine and the other children. really tied everything together in this extraordinary movie. The sets were wonderfully done, each one a reminiscent of Tim Burton’s earlier films, such as Edward Scissorhands and Sleepy Hollow. The colors were eye-catching, and the imagery, although sometimes very dark, was creative in its own way.

Although it seems like this movie was flawless and just utter perfection, there were some aspects that made us question its excellence. We found the movie to be quite similar to X-Men, except set in 1943. Also, the main characters, Jake and Emma, sadly were uninteresting and struggled to carry the movie without the other characters supporting them. The antagonist in the film was also weak, as he suffered from a lack of motivation and no real sense of danger for the main characters. In addition, it led to confusing moments when we were unsure what the overall tone of the movie was. At some points in the plot, it was dark and creepy, but there was a sudden skeleton fight laced with slapstick humor and weird hip-hop music playing in the background which caught our attention. Another odd occurrence was the abrupt transitions. Most of the time, there would be no connection between the different shots, it and the scene would just shift on to the next one. Although small, we found this disconnection in transition to be quite irritating.

Overall, we both found the film to be exemplary, ranging from different characters and ideas. But since we have read the first book of the series we cannot truly say if it will satisfy readers. Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children is definitely a movie worth watching even if you aren’t a fan of the supernatural or the spooks. We guarantee you that this film will bring you into a world unknown. Lastly, stay peculiar.