mdm loh's gp lair of lies.

hey kiddos. with you in prayer and spirit!

2008-10-28T07:49:00.000-07:00

I know some of you are at the end of your tether, in despair, or in strange states of denial and desperation

breathe.

don't see it as torture, see it as a challenge ok?

in the meantime here are some last-minute tips

paper 1:

-read through ALL 12 Q
-write one-word topic on side of each Q (e.g environment, education etc)
-zoom in on 3 Q
-do quick shopping-list type plan for each of the 3 Q
-narrow down to 2 Q -- see which one you have more factual e.gs for
-plan for your final choice (take 15min max)
-write your whole essay in about 1 hr
-each para should be organized - PEEEL (don't forget to add your own opinion in each for bonus)
-make a final STAND in your conclusion

paper 2:

-read through ALL Q before starting on the passage/s, underlining the key words for each
-read the Summary and AQ for the synopsis of the passage/s
-start reading the passage/s, putting at the right-margin the key words you found from each Q. this will help you FOCUS on what to answer later
-remember: it's ok not to understand every single line. get the gist of the whole theme of each passage
-allot time according to the marks in each Short Q. don't exceed 5 min for each
-spend 20 min for Summary, 25 for AQ, if you only have 25 min left and you're stuck at vocab skip and go straight to AQ. chances of getting 5/5 for vocan is slim! but a good AQ may bring you 6 marks plus a good language mark /15
-don't forget to address all parts of the AQ. write at least 3 parag - if one passage, balance with say 2 for and 1 against the writer. if two passages, address at least two paras for passage A, and 1 para for passage B
-each para for AQ should have
1. agree or disagree with the author
2. give reason
3. cite text reference , e.g [l.21-22, P.A]
4. COMMENT on the line chosen (don't choose too long sentences)
5. ADD a concrete fact (from your country if specified, if not global ones)
6. LINK back to the author, saying you therefore agree or disagree

OK don't overdo it from now till monday ok?
relax, read, watch the news

most importantly, try to ENJOY the writing. it really is a chance to show off, to prove to Cambridge that you spent the last two years amassing a wealth of general knowledge and have even developed strong personal opinions on stuff you read. They want to see each script as a representation YOU, not a general student cohort. Make yours SHINE!

P/S answers to last week's practice compre exam (HCI prelimes 08)

new world co-op or lip-service?

2008-10-25T19:32:00.000-07:00

fr STOct 26, 2008

Besides the financial meltdown, the leaders also discussed sustainable development, energy security and climate change yesterday. -- PHOTO: AFP

Time for new rules to guide world economy
Leaders at Asia-Europe summit also urge IMF to play critical role
By Peh Shing Huei

Beijing - Asian and European leaders ended their summit in Beijing yesterday with a call for new rules to guide the global economy while China pledged to take an 'active' role in a crucial meeting of the world's biggest economies in Washington next month.

Speaking as the host, Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao pushed for more regulation in the world's financial system even as he made a pitch for more decisive action from the developed countries.

'Developed countries should take decisive measures to stabilise financial markets so as to restore confidence,' he told a press conference at the end of the two-day Asia-Europe Summit (Asem).

'We are pleased to see that the measures taken by many countries are having preliminary effects, but they aren't enough.'

The key to a way out, said the leader of the world's fourth-largest economy, could be summed up in three words - 'confidence, cooperation and responsibility'.

'We need financial innovation, but we need financial oversight even more,' Mr Wen said, stressing that lessons must be drawn from the economic meltdown.

Mr Wen, who confirmed China's participation in the Nov 15 Washington summit, said Beijing would actively participate in a 'responsible and pragmatic' attitude.

He also promised that China would play its part, pointing to the country's 'great potential' in boosting domestic consumption, especially in the rural areas and its less developed western regions.

The Asem leaders, in a statement released late on Friday, called for the International Monetary Fund to step in and play a 'critical role'.

'Leaders pledged to undertake effective and comprehensive reform of the international monetary and financial systems,' the statement said.

'They agreed to take quickly appropriate initiatives in this respect, in consultation with all stakeholders and the relevant international financial institutions,' it added.

European Commission president Jose Manuel Barroso said participants would use the statement as the basis of their approach at the Washington summit next month, adding that he was seeing an 'emerging consensus' for 'concrete and important decisions'.

President Nicolas Sarkozy of France, which currently holds the rotating European Union presidency, said he expected concrete decisions to come out of the Washington meeting.

He emphasised that it had to address the underlying causes of the crisis, not just their effects.

He said: 'We have all understood that it will not be possible to simply meet and have a discussion. We need to turn it into a decision- making forum.'

In Washington, United States President George W. Bush said that agreeing on common principles to reform regulators would be essential to preventing another financial disaster. But in his weekly radio address, he also warned against protectionism, saying that free markets and free trade were fundamental to long-term economic growth..

The ongoing crisis has given the Asem summit rare prominence, as the biennial event has often been seen as just a talk shop with little substance.

Besides the financial meltdown, the leaders also discussed sustainable development, energy security and climate change yesterday.

Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, who was among the 45 leaders at the summit, met Thai Prime Minister Somchai Wongsawat before leaving Beijing for Xi'an in western Shaanxi province yesterday. It is the second leg of his five-day official visit in China.

more on euthanasia

2008-10-17T20:38:00.000-07:00

fr ST Oct 26, 2008
Can you PLEASE KILL ME?
Should Singapore allow euthanasia? Jamie Ee Wen Wei speaks to doctors who work with the terminally ill, and they all tell her: 'No'

Say you are dying of an illness and your doctor pronounces that you have no more than three months to live. Worried that your last days will be racked with unbearable pain, you ask to die.

Two doctors certify that you are of sound mind and have made the request voluntarily. They administer you with a drug overdose. Several minutes later, you are dead.

Two weeks ago, Health Minister Khaw Boon Wan raised the issue of whether euthanasia should be allowed in Singapore.

He had posed this question after reading about a debate on the topic that raged in the Chinese press.

One man even sent the minister a letter, written in red ink, asking that euthanasia be made legal.

Earlier, Mr Khaw had said that as Singapore comes to grips with an ageing population, it was time to talk about death and 'not sweep it under the carpet'.

Several MPs and doctors interviewed by The Sunday Times welcomed discussion on the highly controversial practice, even as they all said they were personally against euthanasia.

Jalan Besar GRC MP Lily Neo, a medical practitioner, said: 'By discussing it, we can understand how we can be more compassionate towards those who are suffering.'

But some were wary that the discussion would lead to more confusion about the procedure.

Dr Chin Jing Jih, executive director of the Singapore Medical Association's Centre for Medical Ethics and Professionalism, said there must be a consistent definition of euthanasia to ensure a good discussion.

He said this was especially relevant to discussion in the Chinese language, where euthanasia is known as an le si. Literally translated, the phrase means 'a peaceful and painless (or joyful) death'.

Unfortunately, this has led to confusion in the Chinese-speaking community as many tend to confuse euthanasia with palliative care, which involves the management of pain and suffering for terminally ill patients, he said.

As a result, many who merely advocate peaceful death end up on the record as saying they want euthanasia when they are actually not asking to be killed by their doctor, he said.

On the discussion of end-of-life issues, all interviewed said the focus should be on palliative care, which the Government is already looking into.

Dr Fatimah Lateef, an MP for Marine Parade GRC and a doctor for 18 years, said: 'I am more for counselling, proper pain control, and family and peer support in those with advanced disease.'

She added that she supported the Advance Medical Directive, which came into effect here in 1997 and allows an individual to say he does not want extraordinary life-sustaining treatment should he be terminally ill.

Dr Chin said the medical fraternity in Singapore has always been against the practice of euthanasia.

'We take the position that the solution to suffering in terminal illness is to continue to further develop and upgrade palliative care rather than legalise euthanasia,' he said. 'This is consistent with the role of the medical profession as healers and comfort providers, our professional values and underlying ethical tenets.'

Their concern is not only about the ethics involved but also about preventing abuse.

Madam Halimah Yacob, who chairs the Government Parliamentary Committee for Health, also felt the ground was not ready for the legalisation of euthanasia.

She said the feedback from her grassroots is that Singaporeans do not want euthanasia.

'I'm not quite sure if this is an area that we want to lead in,' she said.

jamieee@sph.com.sg

Do you think euthanasia should be legalised in Singapore? Have your say on straitstimes.com or send your views to suntimes@sph.com.sg
--------
octors disagree with act
Five doctors who work with the terminally ill weigh in on the topic of death and euthanasia

# Dr Noreen Chan, 42, medical director of Dover Park Hospice and consultant at the National University Hospital

'I personally am against euthanasia. Also, the World Health Organisation's definition of palliative care states, among other things, that palliative care 'affirms life and regards dying as a normal process' and 'neither hastens nor postpones death'.

Our response to suffering should be first to acknowledge it, then try to relieve the suffering, rather than to remove the sufferer.

I feel very disturbed when people talk about euthanasia in Singapore. I do not think any society should make euthanasia available when it cannot ensure equal access for all its citizens to pain relief and palliative care.

I am not saying that we can relieve all suffering, or that with palliative care, no one will ask for a hastened death. But if we have not ensured that we have done everything we can for the people and their families who are suffering, and have safeguards to protect the vulnerable and the marginalised, allowing euthanasia could be open to abuse.

Only very few patients express a wish to die sooner. Of those, only a small proportion ask for euthanasia - which is usually expressed as a lethal injection. For example, they may say: 'Doctor, can't you give me an injection so I can go off?'

The wish for a hastened death fluctuates. Most people don't have a sustained desire, and the wish to die faster may be associated with factors such as bad pain or other symptoms, the fear (often unfounded) of unbearable suffering, which are all issues that we can deal with effectively.

Of course, we must be careful that we aren't missing major depression, which is treatable and could be a reason for someone wanting to die.

I don't think people have a problem with the issue of death. We all know one day we will be no more. But it would seem that many people have problems with the process of dying - becoming weaker, more dependent, needing help for even basic needs.

And what are the main reasons for people wanting to die? Not pain, or breathlessness, but losing autonomy, losing the ability to engage in enjoyable activities and losing dignity. There's no medicine for that kind of problem, because it's a state of mind.'

# Dr Cynthia Goh, centre director of Lien Centre for Palliative Care and head of department of palliative medicine at the National Cancer Centre Singapore

'I personally disagree with euthanasia and would be against it being allowed in Singapore. This is because we have too many frail and vulnerable people in Singapore whose voices may not be heard properly, and who may become victims of non-voluntary euthanasia.

Also, I am worried that people who are old and sick, who already feel that they are a burden to their families and to society, would ask for euthanasia, not because they wish to die, but because they feel that it is their duty to die.

I often hear patients expressing a wish to die. But they are not asking for euthanasia, and we must not mistake it as such.

Often, it is an expression of sadness, a way of sharing and ventilating their frustration or grief. They often feel better after they have shared their feelings and find the wish to live on a bit longer. Sometimes, finding someone who will listen to the expressions of their hearts is enough encouragement to find a reason to live.'

# Dr James Low, 43, senior consultant and head of department of geriatric medicine at Alexandra Hospital

'I disagree with euthanasia because it goes against one of the most fundamental principles of medicine, which is first and foremost to do no harm.

To me, ending someone else's life is the worst harm that can ever be done to another person, what more to a vulnerable population such as the sick, elderly and dying.

It is unthinkable that the profession that takes pride in healing, curing and comforting life be also the one that takes it away. It reminds me of the proverbial wolf in sheepskin, except that now the sheepskin is the white coat.

Countries that legalise euthanasia have set conditions for it to be implemented. For instance, they require patients who request euthanasia to be above a certain age, mentally sound, suffering from a terminal condition, suffering - and most importantly, it has to be voluntary.

Unfortunately, these conditions have on occasion not been met. Can euthanasia always be voluntary? Involuntary euthanasia is murder.

Legalising euthanasia would also set off a slide towards widening its applications, so that certain groups may feel a duty to be killed or coerced into requesting it.

Many patients do not know the implications when asking for death. Many are in utter misery and desperation from uncontrolled pain (physical, emotional, psychological and spiritual). What these patients require more than anything else is palliative care - the speciality that manages the person holistically. Many patients who request euthanasia are depressed and their expression of a desire for euthanasia is actually a cry for help from their loved ones, their nurses, doctors and society.

Patients would want euthanasia if they thought that they would die without dignity, in pain and suffering and in total abandonment and there is no other way out. They would want euthanasia if they thought that this is what society wanted of them (if euthanasia is legalised).

It also has to do with what value we put on life. As it is now, suicide rates are rising - this is also a reflection on how we value life. We really have to teach our young important life skills and why life is so precious.

Many people requesting euthanasia do not realise the implications of this not only for themselves but also for their loved ones, the professional carers and society.

Euthanasia, in a way, is an expression of an individual's right to self-determination. This is patient autonomy and is another very important principle of medicine. However, many believe that autonomy is never absolute. My autonomy does not give me the right to take another person's life, neither does it give me the right to take away my own life. This is why suicides in Singapore are not allowed.'

# Dr Tan Yew Seng, 42, medical director of Assisi Hospice

'I do not think that euthanasia should be legalised in Singapore. The legal and ethical issues can be complex and may be difficult for the general public to understand.

There are hospice patients who request the doctor to assist in ending their lives. This, however, tends to represent a 'cry for help', a distress call as a result of physical, emotional or spiritual suffering.

We know that for the majority of them, after we take steps to treat the suffering, such as by treating their pain, bodily distress or depression, the patients no longer express the need to hasten their death.

When patients are able to perceive that the only solution to their suffering is death, they will ask for it.

Therefore, instead of accepting the face value of the request for euthanasia as an individual right, as it is couched in many places, our approach should always be to offer other options to patients to help relieve their suffering.

With choice, almost all patients will choose life instead. Incidentally, enabling patients to live on by managing their suffering is a key tenet in palliative and hospice care.'

# Dr Ang Peng Tiam, 50, senior oncologist and medical director of Parkway Cancer Centre

'I do not agree with active euthanasia. I think it is morally wrong. As a doctor, my duty is to save life and not to take life away. If indeed our society wants euthanasia, then let society decide how to carry it out. It should not be put in the doctor's hands.

Doctors can guide you on medical conditions, like for instance, declare that someone is terminally ill. But the act of killing someone is not for us to carry out.

To me, euthanasia is a cheap option. We should be able to relieve the pain of the dying to help them allow nature to take its course. The heart of the issue now is that we are not offering patients enough support as it is very costly and time-consuming.

Patients want love and care. People who want euthanasia are people who are in despair. They may not have family or community support. It is similar to people who commit suicide. They do it because they feel there is no hope.

I don't think the issue of euthanasia is adequately discussed in Singapore. It is certainly not an issue that the Government should decide, but rather, society should take the responsibility to decide.

I think we should go very, very slow with euthanasia and discuss it in a rational manner.'
------
from ST Oct 18, 2008
Red-ink euthanasia letter 'conveyed reader's pain'
By Tan Hui Yee
SHOULD ageing Singapore legalise euthanasia? Health Minister Khaw Boon Wan posed this question last night at the Institution of Engineers' annual dinner and dance, in response to a recent debate in the Chinese press over the issue.

Over the past few weeks, many readers of Lianhe Zaobao have written to the Chinese daily calling for euthanasia - or assisted dying - to be legalised in Singapore.

Mainly older folk, they feel they should be allowed to die with dignity when crippled by illness, instead of seeing their loved ones burdened by high medical bills and caregiving responsibilities.

One particularly desperate reader even sent Mr Khaw a letter, written in red ink, on a photocopy of Zaobao's forum page.

'By writing in red ink, he probably wanted to convey his message of anguish and pain,' said Mr Khaw.

The euthanasia debate was triggered by a letter published on Sept20 from 72-year-old Shen Li Zhen Ni, who said she and her 74-year-old husband lived each day in fear of falling ill and becoming dependent on others for their daily needs.

The elderly, she said, were more afraid of illness than death, and she had no qualms about having her plug pulled if she became 'useless' to society.

She added that taking care of such elderly folk was like 'filling a bottomless pit', as one never knew when the work would end.

The letter sparked passionate letters of support from other elderly folk and their caregivers. One, whose parents are in their 80s and bedridden after suffering strokes and other illnesses, described them as merely 'waiting to eat, sleep and die'. She has told her own children not to save her if she should end up in a similar condition.

The letter writers argued that legalising euthanasia was not about encouraging people to stop medical treatment or shirking the responsibility of looking after ailing relatives; it was about letting people die with dignity.

One reader, however, said Singapore should look into its ageist attitudes and find ways to help the elderly lead meaningful lives before addressing euthanasia.

The debate comes at a time when the Government is trying to get more people to make an Advance Medical Directive, which allows them to state their intention to stop medical treatment should they become terminally ill. Since this living will was introduced in 1997, fewer than 10,000 people have signed up.

Sociologist Paulin Straughan said any discussion of euthanasia needs to take in a host of issues, such as religious beliefs and when a person's medical condition can be deemed terminal.

'The appeal of euthanasia lies in the misconception that it is the individual's decision, and this decision is based on a very noble perception that we don't want to be a burden to our family in the end stages,' she said. 'But in reality, that decision affects so many others.'

Legalising euthanasia could also put pressure on individuals to choose the option against their will, she warned.

'Some may feel that if they love their family, they should opt for euthanasia if they are in the terminal stages of a painful condition, even if they are really not ready to go.'

of living wills / advanced medical directives (amd)

2008-10-15T00:54:00.000-07:00

Oct 15, 2008
Living wills to be made easier
More people to be encouraged to lodge end-of-life medical directive
By Salma Khalik, HEALTH CORRESPONDENT & April Chong
FEWER than 10,000 people have signed an Advanced Medical Directive, or what is more commonly known as a living will, though it has been available for 11 years.

It is a 'terrible' figure, said Health Minister Khaw Boon Wan, who feels 'we have been too cautious and unduly squeamish' in promoting the concept.

An AMD is a legal document which a person lodges ahead of time to instruct doctors not to take extraordinary measures to prolong one's life if one is terminally ill or unconscious.

This ensures they will not go to extremes such as mechanically helping a patient to breathe, or sending a patient who is in a vegetative state into an intensive care unit to keep him alive.

Instead, they will take steps to ensure that the dying person is made comfortable, with as little pain as possible.

Mr Khaw feels it is important to 'actively' encourage people to sign up, so that their wishes are known ahead of time. One way to make it easier is to remove the need for a doctor to witness its signing, now a requirement.

Other things that might change includes allowing people to download the form from the Internet. It is available now in hospitals and clinics.

Before any amendment to the law is made, public consultations will be held on what people want from and in an AMD.

Speaking at the opening of the Lien Centre for Palliative Care yesterday, MrKhaw said an AMD 'empowers the terminally ill and preserves self-determination into the period in which the patient is unconscious or incapable of exercising rational judgement'.

Decisions should be made in advance, when people are still able to, instead of placing the burden on family members at the end.

Patient care extends to helping them plan their dying, so that the patient's wishes will be 'respected in a dignified, humane way'.

Yet, it is not common to find one who wants to create a directive.

Said Dr Wu Huei Yaw, a consultant in geriatric medicine at Tan Tock Seng Hospital: 'In my last seven to eight years, I've only signed one AMD.'

Doctors in general practice may handle up to 'a few cases' a year.

People may avoid it because of confusion over what the directive involves, said Mr Khaw.

He would like to make the explanations in the two-page form plainer and clearer, and in different languages.

This would clarify matters, not just for patients.

'Some doctors have told us that they shy away from acting as witnesses for AMDs because they themselves do not fully understand the implications of the AMD,' he said.

A check with 12 doctors in polyclinics, hospitals and general practice, found one in four was not comfortable discussing the AMD with their patients, though all agreed it was necessary to increase awareness of such end-of-life decisions among patients and doctors alike.

Another reason for the low uptake is 'sheer inertia', he said.

Dr Noreen Chan, who is developing the palliative care service at the National University Hospital, said there were a few reasons people hesitate to sign the AMD. Among them is the reluctance to talk about death, the misconception that an AMD equates euthanasia, and that it is a 'wordy' document.

'It is a good idea to make the AMD more understandable and accessible to everyone,' she said.

fr ST 16th Oct '08

---
materials from today's Paper 1 prep session

why our country made it, according to the MM

2008-10-11T06:18:00.000-07:00

ST, Oct 11, 2008

How Singapore achieved success
By Kor Kian Beng
FOUR key factors are behind the Singapore success story, said Minister Mentor Lee Kuan Yew, who led the team that laid the foundation for the country's development after independence.

They are: a capable and incorrupt government, meritocracy, equal opportunities for all and making every Singaporean a stakeholder in the country.

He identified these factors when he replied to a participant at a dialogue with around 500 people at the Global Indian Diaspora Conference. The man had asked what lies behind Singapore's development into one of the world's cleanest cities with some of the best infrastructure.

Before replying, Mr Lee said he was aware of the vast difference between a small city state and a vast continent, like India. 'But when you come to compare cities, it's exactly the same,' said Mr Lee, who was prime minister from 1959 to 1990.

First, Mr Lee said he was not involved in a solo effort as he had a very good team of very able ministers, whose integrity and ability were beyond doubt.

He said: 'Yes, I captained the team and made decisive moves but I had people who understood what had to be done to get there.'

It was important to have a completely incorruptible government in place, he added. 'Once you have a corrupt government, you're in deep trouble...the whole system is skewed, including decision making.'

Another crucial factor was to set out a level playing field for everyone.

'You get a job not on the basis of your connections - your father, your friends or whatever - but on the basis of your performance. We have equal opportunities for schooling, health, and I would say, life.

'Regardless of race, language or religion...Who's the best man? You do it.'

As for making every Singaporean a stakeholder in the country, Mr Lee noted that many Singaporeans own property.

'So, today you can ask any taxi driver, any hawker, he owns a flat, he owns his home, the smallest of which is worth about $150,000 even in today's depressed prices. And the biggest of them will be about $600,000, $700,000.

'So he's a little stakeholder.'

This means Singaporeans understand that voting-in a bad government could lead to a plunge in property values and a loss of jobs, Mr Lee added.

'They may say this is authoritarianism, that's how we get re-elected,' he said. 'They don't know the economic rationale behind it. Everybody has a stake, everybody has to perform.'

©2008 Straits Times

the domino effect

2008-10-06T05:34:00.000-07:00

The MM Lee once said, 'The world has become too inter-connected and too inter-dependent for one region of the world to dominate.'
To a large extent his words resonate in the way the Wall Street crash has spiralled into a dire straits which Asia cannot avoid.
This is echoed by our Finance Minister, Shanmugaratnam in a ST report on 6th Oct '08, Economy may slow for 'several quarters':

Reported by Li Xueying
HEAVILY exposed to the global economy, Singapore will see an economic slowdown that could last 'several quarters', not just one or two quarters, said Finance Minister Tharman Shanmugaratnam yesterday.

In tandem, unemployment is expected to increase.

But he also sounded a note of optimism, saying with its strong fundamentals, Singapore will ride out the crisis - and emerge better than most countries.

Mr Tharman was addressing some 300 grassroots leaders and residents of Toa Payoh East, after a three-hour walkabout which saw him, among other things, opening an exercise corner for the elderly.

Accompanied by MPs from the Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC, including Mrs Josephine Teo, it was his first ministerial walkabout since taking charge of the finance portfolio this year.

During the 80-minute dialogue that followed, residents asked 13 questions covering topics from foreign talent to greater rewards for grandparent caregivers.

But the focus was on the darkening economic outlook amid increasingly gloomy news from the United States - and the world - on what some have termed 'the worst financial crisis since the 1930s'.

So grassroots leader Raymond Teo, 39, wanted Mr Tharman's opinion of the US$700 billion (S$1 trillion) package to bail out troubled financial institutions in the US, and how it impacts Singapore.

The minister expressed relief that the US Congress had supported the package, as it is a step forward.

But it is 'not a full solution' in addressing the real malaise: shortage of capital in the banks, he noted. This, the new US President would have to work out when he takes over in January.

And because the problems are 'deep and extensive', it will take 'a year or two' before the world emerges from the crisis, he later told reporters.

Meanwhile, the crisis has moved into what he calls 'its second phase'.

'It's no longer just a financial crisis,' he said. 'It is now an economic crisis.'

Growth is slowing in the US, Europe, Japan, and even China and India, he noted. 'So globally the economy is slowing down. This is a fact we cannot escape.'

Thus, Singapore 'will see an economic slowdown which, from all indications, will last not just one or two quarters, but may last several quarters, because we're heavily exposed to the global economy'.

But he stressed that Singapore is armed with strengths that will see it safely through the crisis.

First, the unemployment rate is low.

So while fewer jobs will be created in the next few quarters, the starting level is 'much lower' than most countries.

Second, Singapore has a diversified economy.

'Some sectors are still doing well,' he said, citing marine engineering, construction and manufacturers of high-value products. Even in the embattled financial services industry, wealth management and private banking are doing well.

Third, the Government is in a strong fiscal position, 'and we'll be able to take the necessary actions if the situation turns much worse'.

He said: 'Frankly, it was just as well we decided not to spend all the surplus that we earned last year.' Part of it was given to Singaporeans as Growth Dividends.

'This crisis shows the merits of thinking not just short-term but medium- to long-term,' the minister added.

Exuding confidence about the country's strong fundamentals, he told Singaporeans to keep their eye on the medium- to long-term future, as the short-term problems can be dealt with.

'If we keep our focus on education, continuous training, and attracting new investments and new industries here - which is what we're doing - Singapore will continue to do well.

'So we'll ride through the down cycle ...I feel we're going to come through it better than most countries - not just in the region but even most developed countries.'

Asked for the full-year economic growth forecast, he said the Trade and Industry Ministry will reveal the numbers on Friday. Trade and Industry Minister Lim Hng Kiang had warned growth might dip 'a bit below' 4 per cent this year.

One resident, technician Ali Khan, 43, said he was assured by Mr Tharman's replies, as he and his friends had been worried about their job security.

'It gives me some confidence that despite the downturn, we'll be all right in the long run.'

"Beware of the claw of economic disasters!"

moving on...

2008-09-22T06:10:00.000-07:00

OK peeps, i know many of you are disheartened by the results, believe me i'm really xing1tong4 too =[
well, no point crying over spilt (tainted) milk. so let's try to look past this and work on your reading and writing before nov 3rd ok?

in the meantime here's mr bell's lecture notes in case you missed them.
and for those who want more practice, here's a zip file of other JC prelim papers (about 2.5mb)

meantime, do read up on the latest global crises, like the china milk scandal, lehman/meryll lynch debacle and of course what has been termed the '9/11 of Pakistan' Al Qaeda bombing of Hotel Marriot, Islamabad. It's the latest stuff you include in your essays which will impress the examiners. They keep emphasising that the RANGE of examples always helps make your essays remarkable.

and that's exactly what i hope for you all. not average run-of-the-mill essays but something which will distinguish you from the 354365346232 essays they mark. i believe ALL of you can attain the A's or B's ok?

go peeps!

---
dates to kiv:

+ 2nd oct 245-545 mock exam, audi, lt1 / 4
+ post-farewell revision and practice sessions: paper 1 (16th oct), paper 2 (23rd oct) - this is not compulsory but strongly encouraged to give you confidence before the big one
+ free group tuition conducted by AJ alumni + ex-GP tutor, saturdays, 9am-12pm, Reading Room (wef 27th sept)

how the world economy can affect us.

2008-09-16T06:34:00.001-07:00

9/16/2008 From BBC NEWS:
Q&A: Lehman Brothers bank collapse
Wall Street bank Lehman Brothers has filed for chapter 11 bankruptcy protection
after emergency talks to find a buyer failed.
Confidence in the 150-year-old investment bank - the fourth largest in the US - crumbled last
week amid growing concerns that its large portfolio of mortgage-backed assets was worth far
less than it was originally valued.
During the past year Lehman reported billion-dollar losses and saw its share price plummet
more than 95%.

Why did Lehman fail?
Lehman Brothers is considered one of Wall Street's biggest dealers in fixed interest trading
and was heavily invested in securities linked to the US sub-prime mortgage market.
With these investments now shunned as high risk, analysts say it was inevitable that
confidence in Lehman Brothers would likely be hit - particularly after the collapse of Bear
Stearns earlier this year.
In its June to August period last year, the bank said it would make write downs of $700m as
it adjusted the value of its investments in residential mortgages and commercial property.
One year on this figure soared to $7.8bn, which last week resulted in Lehman reporting the
largest net loss in its history. The bank also admitted that it still had $54bn of exposure to
hard-to-value mortgage-backed securities.
Despite having access to cash reserves, worried investors pummelled the firm's shares last
week after talks to raise billions of dollars from outside investors ran into a brick wall.

How does it affect me?
Nobody has a Lehman Brothers cheque book or current account. The company is an
investment bank that specialises in big and complex deals and investments.
Despite this, Lehman's collapse will probably be felt by millions of people around the world -
at least indirectly.
Most of our banks and pension funds have dealings with Lehman, or with firms like hedge
funds that traded extensively with Lehman.
Unwinding Lehman's complex deals could take weeks or months. During that time the global
financial system will be snarled up. Many banks won't know for sure how much they are
exposed to Lehman, and will have difficulty freeing up the money in those deals.
This in turn is likely to intensify the credit crunch, with potentially dire consequences for
businesses and consumers.
And the dramatic collapse of Lehman Brothers has also shaken the financial markets, with
share prices slumping around the world.

Are any other firms in trouble?
Well, for starters there is Merrill Lynch, another large US investment bank. In a surprise
move, Bank of America agreed on Sunday to buy Merrill Lynch.
The fear was that investors would have started a witch hunt for the next bank with heavy
exposure to debt linked to mortgages, the value of which continues to tumble, and Merrill
Lynch would have been the likely suspect.
The biggest worry, though, is insurance giant AIG. Reports suggest that AIG has asked the
US central bank for a $40bn bridging loan.
If AIG is in trouble, it would directly affect millions of consumers and companies around the
world. It would also hurt the whole financial system.
And compared to AIG, the crisis surrounding Bear Sterns and Lehman is small beer.
Why didn't the US Treasury save Lehman Brothers?
When Bear Stearns ran into trouble, the US Treasury made the terms favourable for JP
Morgan Chase to buy it.
And just last week, the US government effectively nationalised Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac,
which between them own or guarantee about half of the $12 trillion US mortgage market.
So already the US tax payer has been put at risk of shouldering the burden of billions of
dollars of losses, and it is becoming politically less acceptable for the government to keep
bailing out private companies.
By not giving UK bank Barclays a guarantee for Lehman's trading obligations as part of a deal
to buy the business, analysts say the US Treasury has put a line under its willingness to use
public money to rescue banks which have made wrong decisions.
Instead, government officials have focused on supporting the financial system in other ways,
announcing measures to ease access to emergency credit for struggling financial companies.

How big is Lehman Brothers?
Founded in 1850 by three immigrants from Germany, Lehman Brothers has been a
prominent investment bank in Wall Street for decades.
It operates at a wholesale level, dealing with governments, companies and other financial
institutions, employing 25,000 people worldwide, including 5,000 in the UK.
Its core business includes buying and selling shares and fixed income assets, trading and
research, investment banking, investment management and private equity.
As the crisis in financial markets has gathered momentum, it has seen its share price collapse
from $82 to less than $4 - a fall of 95%.

Published: 2008/09/15 09:35:50 GMT
© BBC MMVIII

fuel factor.

2008-09-14T23:40:00.001-07:00

oil prices and opec:

fr ST 15th sep '08

doomsday is at hand (& i don't mean your a levels)

2008-08-24T23:47:00.000-07:00

Time bomb trapped in Arctic soil

fr ST Aug 25 '08

a fashion statement (about the environment)

2008-08-17T03:01:00.000-07:00

more...

(thanks for the link baby)

Overview of GP Topics (For Revision)

2008-08-14T05:47:00.000-07:00

1.Family / Youth
-Marriage/Divorce
-Social issues

2.Education
-Values

3.Media
-Advertising
-Censorship

4.Crime & Punishment
-Death Penalty
-Prison Violence / Torture

5.Prejudice & Discrimination
-Gender
-Racial
-Sexuality
-Age
-Disability
-Xenophobia

6.Social & Ethical Debates
-Abortion
-Euthanasia
-Animal Rights

7.Environment
-Poverty / Hunger (food crisis)
-Climate crisis

8.Politics
-Ideology
-Forms of Government

9.War & Violence
-Causes/Forms of War
-Terrorism

10.Sports
-Doping
-Gambling

11. Arts
SPECTRA Value

12. Science & Technology
-Stem-cell / Cloning
-R&D
-Organ Trading
-Medical Ethics
-Use/Abuse

13. Globalisation
-SPECTRA issues

TASK : For each topic, try to brainstorm for relevant current factual examples.

Prince Charles and his slant on GM Crops

2008-08-13T04:33:00.000-07:00

Prince Charles says GM crops will be 'disaster'

...more

china sports school.

2008-08-09T23:29:00.000-07:00

how sportsmen are hothoused from a tender age.

synopsis:
Little Big Dreams
Episode 1
Countless hours of grueling training for one common dream - to be the World's Gymnastic Champion. Drawn by the glory and wealth that Olympic success brings, these little hopefuls are pushed to their breaking point. Follow the journey of 4 children as they struggle to fulfill their Little Big Dreams
catch it on CNA on sunday 10th aug, 7.30pm

repeat telecast on sat 15th aug 11.30pm!

bane of the new media - - cybercrime

2008-07-28T18:10:00.000-07:00

from ST Jul 29

for the lazy...

2008-07-19T06:05:00.000-07:00

hey peeps, seeing how busy you all are, i would recommend that you all subscribe to CNA here and you will get daily updates in news briefs thru your email.

keep reading and be in the know, ok? knowledge of current events gives you confidence when you write your essays or even when citing examples in your AQ.

i know you all can get your As n Bs so don't lose sight of that goal =]
===
analyze this!

what do you think is the political implication on the UK when Brown makes a public statement of this nature?

do the math.

2008-06-04T20:47:00.000-07:00

biofuel bane?

FOOD OR FUEL?: A beaker of ethanol produced from US maize at a facility in Illinois. The US has defended a policy diverting a quarter of its maize to ethanol production by 2022. -- PHOTO: AFP

---
and in other news...
Singapore is compared to the likes of other authoritarian regimes
fr Yawning Bread

MYE '08

2008-05-29T05:31:00.000-07:00

just in case you've 'misplaced' your copy of the MYE Qs. haha!nice try. pls get the h/w done peeps. it's a chore i know but you'll find it helps in the long run, esp when your prelims are just months away...

Pls do essay plans for ALL:
1. Discuss the challenges faced by the mass media in an era of globalisation.
2. Singaporeans are too apathetic to take an active part in politics. Discuss.
3. Women are ultimately their own enemy in their progress. How far is this true of women today?
4. “This is home, truly.” Is this the sentiment of young people in Singapore?
5. Words have lost their impact in today’s world. How far do you agree with this statement?
6. Modern society is a slave to fashion. Comment
7. Should drama be a compulsory subject in schools?
8. Has the movement towards globalisation given rise to increased terrorist activities?
9. "When it's a question of money, everybody is of the same religion."(Voltaire, French philosopher). How far is this true of society’s values today?
10. Violence as a means of achieving justice is impractical and immoral. To what extent do you agree with this statement?
11. Sportsmen are not born, they are trained. Discuss.
12. The rich benefit from the current food crisis. To what extent is this true?
---

interesting read on how we treat our foreign talent in our globalised economy...

Do keep up with current affairs even while you nua during the hols ok? a good essay relies on up-to-date knowledge!

UN and the food crisis.

2008-05-19T20:46:00.000-07:00

ST May 20

Brit PM supports Chimera R&D

2008-05-18T18:17:00.003-07:00

fr ST May 19

world wide waste.

2008-05-17T18:57:00.000-07:00

and how our country is contributing to it.

ST May 18

a suit over a suit.

2008-05-15T16:57:00.000-07:00

In sports these days, it's not just about consuming enhancement-drugs, but 'wearing' them.

---
and more about the (in)famous doc from s korea

---
and how we allegedly doom ourselves...

all fr ST may 16

globalisation, immigration and designer babies.

2008-05-13T23:03:00.000-07:00

from Forbes.com
Singapore's Unloved Chinese Labor Boom

---
from ST 14th may

save the sharks!

2008-05-09T20:17:00.001-07:00

our country's contribution to the environment.

ST May 10

funny!

2008-05-02T20:00:00.000-07:00

an expose on child labour exploitation

2008-04-30T19:46:00.000-07:00

ST may 1

---
an interesting perspective on China, the Olympics and Globalisation.

our world in crisis.

2008-04-18T19:54:00.000-07:00

must-read depressing stuff :p

nicely 05s!

2008-04-13T19:39:00.000-07:00

you all did a tremendous job with your pw! you all rock =]

...now just that final H1 to ace, my dears!

who says the news is boring?

2008-04-04T19:55:00.000-07:00

when gender lines blur...

ST Apr 5

quote of the week!

2008-03-28T00:57:00.001-07:00

what you should never write in your essays haha!

'I love Africa in general, South Africa and West Africa. They are both great countries'

SDL and Research on Globalisation (Fri 28th Mar '08)

2008-03-21T04:48:00.000-07:00

Hey peeps
Time to go trawl the net for topics on Globalisation and its impact on
Political Relations
Culture
Social Issues
Environment
World Economy

Meantime here's an interesting read on the wonderful MNC Starbucks in ST 21st Mar '08:

SDL Research on Science and Technology (feb 22)

2008-02-11T18:10:00.000-08:00

Hey kiddos!
Pls go trawl the net on Science & Technology and the ethical issues related to it:
+ animal-testing / vivisection
+ euthanasia
+ cloning
+ stem-cell research using human embryos
+ bioweaponry (anthrax) / bioterrorism
+ xenotransplantation
+ designer babies

it'd be wise to find contrasting views on the above issues (pros and cons)

SDL Research on Environmental Issues (feb 1 '08)

2008-01-27T18:37:00.000-08:00

Please do a thorough research on the key issues and events related to the environment. It isn't as simplistic as reuse,reduce recycle haha! time to stop preaching in your essays, peeps. no more 'you musts' in your arguments OK? the questions on environment require more than a list of problems and solutions. you need to address the larger issues and possible limitations to so called saving 'mother earth' :cough: pls stop using that term too. it's just painfully silly to read...

Look up:
+ the Bali Summit '07
+ the Kyoto Protocol '98
+ Biodiversity
+ Sustainable Development
+ GAIA
+ Greenpeace

- also look into Al Gore's arguments in An Inconvenient Truth and those who dispute the scientific credibility of it, such as this article and this

and if you have time, watch The Story of Stuff and process how this has an impact on our values about the environment.

SDL Research on Political Systems (fri 4th jan 08)

2008-01-02T20:26:00.000-08:00

OK peeps, it's important that before we discuss issues like Globalization and War, you should familiarize yourselves with the following terms and apply them accordingly to the forms of government of different nations. So please do some research on
1. Republic
2. Democracy
3. Communism
4. Socialism
5. Dictatorship

(you could add more of your own based on prior knowledge of the topic. suprise me!)

Also try to find examples of countries for each ruling system above.

Post them all on your beeaauutyfoool blogs ok?

and so it goes...

2007-11-29T07:10:00.001-08:00

sorry ladies and germ, but 18 has been given to another teach next year so well, I'll miss you peeps. (but pls get the damn holiday hw done anyway ok?)

05 and 23, you'll still have to reckon with my nasty ass haha! cya all in '08 and have a merry one ok?

oxymoron much

2007-10-30T05:14:00.000-07:00

HOLIDAY HOMEWORK!

Haha so well your pw nightmares almost over, here's another to add to your christmas cheer...
We just can't leave you to breathe so here goes:

Pls get done (updated on 9th nov...so much changed since the last dept meeting):
1. TWO essays (800 words) on any of the Promo '07 questions. This will be counted as your first assignments for Term 1 in '08. Pls attach 3 articles for EACH essay related to the topics you choose

2. Redo the Promo '07 compre (I know, I don't get it either. but please don't shoot the messenger) focusing on your AQ

3. Prepare for your milestones research MCQ test to be administered in Term 1 '08
If you've forgotten what the topics are, go click on this link and if your dear GP reps have already compiled them into a package that'd help heaps.

OK that should be it. Keep busy kids. An idle mind is the devil's workshop and believe me, I of all peeps should know that muahahaha! >;]

HAPPY HALLOWEEEEEN! HOOOWWLL

interesting read...

2007-10-18T19:34:00.000-07:00

url: http://www.freewebs.com/vivloh/jwatson.JPG

hits, and misses

2007-10-16T05:55:00.000-07:00

Well I can't say I'm over the moon about your grades, peeps, but you know, for what it's worth, most of you have shown marked improvement since the last major exams. Special shout-outs to the diligent ones like Mui2, Ayu and Qiulin (05), Siting and Kim (18) and Ci and Jean (23) for all the blood sweat and tears you put in. Even if the grades may not reflect your efforts, you've become bigger persons for trying and I hope you'll continue to thrive.

And of course the ones who shone based on their extra effort to research and consistently turn in good quality work like Rav, Joash, Nic (05), Van, Sim, Jo and Jialin (18) and Steph, GSM, Marion, Colin, Bobby and Weixun (23). You all deserve special mention only because I think you can inspire your classmates to up the ante next year!

In the meantime, don't despair if things aren't looking too bright. Consider the whole exam experience a life lesson to yourselves, pick up the pieces, move on. You should be proud of yourselves having made it thus far. Continue to update/upgrade yourselves in your free time (after your dreaded PW is over) and readx3. That's really the key to good writing OK?

Have a good rest and I'll see you all soon. In the meantime, I'll upload the paper 2 answer so you can go check what errors you made. It was a tough paper overall and we were quite harsh with the marking, only coz we want to appraise your standards as close to Cambridge ones. See you all on Oct 26th (there'll be a feedback session) and I think Nov 9th where I see you guys for the last time. I'm not certain if I'll be teaching you all next year, but we'll see ;]
In my thoughts and prayers
the madam

or not... ;]

2007-10-01T07:25:00.001-07:00

exit...stage right...or wrong

2007-09-23T18:29:00.000-07:00

so kiddos, it's uneventfully the start of your promos on children's day and well, the child in me would like to wish the child in you the best in what's left of your days as minors (not like few of you haven't already tried certain vices only legally-accessible to 18&aboves)

right. I guess what this entry is really about is to express my sentiment about having spent almost 3 terms with you...the longest in my record as a relief-teach. It's weird. I only meant to spend a term with you peeps, but well, it turns out I wanted to see all of you through to the finish line.

so 23, you've been a really motley & charming lot -- with the primates, mice, and other exotic creatures from other lands...haha your class is like a zoo, and yes, I support PETA and other worthy causes saving animals...coz I love 'em!

and 18, ladies and the best gentleman i've met in eons -- you'll always have a place in my heart. your classes always came at the worst times of the day (too early or too late!) but you know what? Just looking at your pure, teachable faces was enough motivation. I really hope you womyn thrive as individuals, and that the only chap will come out of these two years the most enlightened of his species.

and of course my beloved PD 05, you are like assorted nuts (I mean that in a good way...wait for it) -- I look forward to seeing you all every time, except during the tense episodes of love/hate drama hahaha!. But seriously, you all are special in your own ways, and like a pack of nuts, each one appeals in flavour...well except that flat kidney-shaped one (fava bean?) which I hate! You will all be dearly cherished for everything that you are.

Go kick butt in the exams, kiddos! And if you see me on the street, don't be a stranger, OK?
And I will continue to exasperate you in spirit! muahahahah!

----
meanwhile...some 'gentle' reminders from my HOD for the promos

It is the candidate's duty to be:

1. neat (avoid excessive & untidy cancellations)

2. ensure his / her handwriting is clear and big (not tiny that cannot be read)

3. use dark ink pen (not light blue / black) to ensure visibility

4. use simple & clear sentences (avoid verbosity and convoluted sentences)

It is their duty to ensure the examiner can read their work. They should not penalise themselves unneccesarily. The examiner cannot give marks to anything he / she cannot read.

haha you heard her. so you know what to do.

SDL and Research (Mon 10th Sept, Comp Lab)

2007-09-09T15:58:00.000-07:00

Too short a term break...

Anyway, it's the final lap of your JC1 and based on the last essay you all wrote, I've observed a blatant lack of knowledge in the examples you raised. So it's time you did some background search on these essential terms before you make the same stark factual fallacies in your final exams:

Globalisation and Culture
Environment & Biodiversity, Sustainable Development
Terrorism and War

Try to also find relevant articles on the above and PASTE the links on your blogs.

And if you haven't already, please complete your blog entry on same-sex marriage before your promos, or at least before they find a cure for cancer!
If you can, drop me a message here once you've updated. thanx!

(Also here's an interesting article on MM Lee's comment on gay peeps & globalisation of our country & globalisation represented in an LV ad)

This just in: a refreshing perspective on the latest episode of the gay RI teacher coming-out

BLOG TASK 2 for Term 3

2007-08-27T20:06:00.000-07:00

Is same-sex marriage a practical consideration in this age of globalisation?

Using articles you've read in class or on your own, consolidate the information with your response in your blogs.
(DEADLINE: by end of Sept week-long hols)

------
& for those with extra time on your hands...
extra readings from across the causeway:
Gay pastor sparks uproar
Gay pastor leads service, his partner watches with pride

Issues on HIV / 'gay disease':
No room for sexual morality in Aids conversation (TODAYonline, 13th Aug 07)
Beware the high-risk 'gay lifestyle' (ST FORUM, 8th Aug 07) if can't get in, this article also sums it up.

Anit-gay marriage:
Marriage is an institution between one man and one woman

Reverse Sexism and the Women's Charter:
Not a biased law

And for those who REALLY have lots of time...
Take the sexuality test here! ;]
(I'd love to know how you all fair hahaha!)

have a good break, kiddos!

Term 3 Micro Lecture downloads

2007-07-26T17:55:00.000-07:00

Prejudice and Discrimination:

General Overview

Gender

Race

Class

Sexuality

Please also research on your own issues on Lookism, Ageism, Disablism and Discrimination against Foreigners (Xenophobia).

BLOG TASK 1 for Term 3

2007-07-15T17:47:00.000-07:00

"The mother of revolution and crime is poverty"(Aristotle)
Do you agree?

Read two articles on class discriminaton (which I will hand out soon) and consolidate the information in response to the question above.

(deadline: end of Week 7 or please get it done at least during the long national day weekend)

and so it begins...

2007-06-28T19:29:00.000-07:00

OK peeps, your hols are way over, your exams finally ended and well, you know what I hope you all have/or will get down to doing.*

No nagging required.

*for the clueless / uninitiated (deliberately or otherwise), your holiday blog assignment on racial harmony and the research project which I will collect on Tue 3rd July. Pending which I will have to get nasty!

P/S special shout-outs to the lovelies who got around to either doing it or have been blogging actively during the hols (I will get down to grading them when I'm done w the MYE marking):
Lil Tracy, Xin Rui, Shang Yuan, Ming Quan, Daniel, Joash (05), Charmaine, Violet, Si Ting, Kang Kim, Jolene and Zi Qi (18) and Marion, Shimin, Yuan Yin, Jean, Bobby, Josh, Wei Zhe, Jeremy, Zhi Wei and Kan Chong (23) -- you all will seriously be considered to be clustered into the Alpha GP group next year. Or in any case, your self-discipline is commendable! You all rock serious ass! =]

Micro-Lecture Notes

2007-05-14T18:17:00.000-07:00

As requested by most of you, here are the links to notes from my Term 2 lessons according to topic (disclaimer: links may expire from file-sharing website)

Mass Media:

Censorship

Crime and Punishment / Life & Death:

sorry, nothing to see here ;]

2007-04-18T19:45:00.000-07:00

I had to create this bogus account because some of you have not given me the option to post anon comments.

anyway, since you're here, the grading scheme FYI:

A: deeply insightful and cogent response to the article, even providing links to other related articles

B: a generally well-developed response reflecting a good grasp of the topic at hand

C: a shallow reading and averagely constructed entry

D: a shoddy and poorly constructed response

F: you should know why