A QUARTERLY PUBLICATION OF LINC HOME STUDY | SPRING

Transcription

NEWSLINC
A QUARTERLY PUBLICATION OF LINC HOME STUDY | SPRING 2014
Funded by:
Financé par:
ABOUT US
About NewsLINC
NewsLINC is a quarterly publication of writing submitted by LINC Home Study students. We are proud
of our students and thrilled to publish their writing.
The publication encourages our students to practice writing, helps to boost their self-confidence,
promotes language skills development and creates
a sense of community within the LINC Home Study
program. We also hope our readers learn from and
feel inspired by the collection of works that are
showcased each issue.
About LINC Home Study
LINC Home Study is an English language program
for newcomers to Canada who wish to improve
their listening, speaking, reading and writing skills
but have barriers to attending classroom courses.
What is the program like?
As a student in the LINC Home Study program, you
can learn English from the comfort of your home.
You have the choice of completing the program
either online (using a computer with internet access) or offline (using a traditional textbook and
CD). All study materials are based on the Canadian
Language Benchmarks standards. To be successful,
you have to study hard and commit your time to
improving your English skills. This includes studying
independently for 5 to 10 hours a week and finishing homework assignments.
Do I get any help?
To ensure you have the best possible learning experience, you receive support from our experienced
and qualified staff. You work with a TESL-certified
instructor who contacts you every week by phone
or VOIP to review your homework, help you
practice speaking and answer your questions. Your
instructor develops a learning plan that is tailored to
your individual needs and guides you along the path
to achieving your goals. You can also contact our
technical and program support staff for assistance
with any questions you have about the program policies, features or functionality.
How do I register for the program?
To qualify for the program you must have your
language skills assessed at a language assessment
centre and be:
• of legal school leaving age within your province
or territory
• a convention refugee OR a permanent resident
of Canada who has not become a Canadian
citizen
• unable to attend classroom-based English language training
How much does the program cost?
There is no fee to enrol in this program. LINC Home
Study is funded by Citizenship and Immigration
Canada.
Contact Us
If you have questions or feedback about the LINC
Home Study program or NewsLINC, please email us
at: help@linchomestudy.ca
CONTENTS
SPRING 2014
ACTIVITY
7
8
My Pride and Passion | Xue F.
Safety Measures for Riding a Bicycle | Faramarz B.
ARTS
10
11
12
Movie Review of “Or Noir” | Mahmoud B
Lauri Tilkanen | Shailesh G.
Movie Review: A Beautiful Mind | Ram A.
7
BIOS
15
16
17
My Life | Ren G.
My Biography | Yanheng T.
My Biography | Wendy T.
CANADA
19
20
21
22
23
Canada | Maria B.
Unforgettable Weekend with My Canadian Co-Workers | Adoneis A.
My Dream Come True | Angela L.
What Do I Like About Living in Canada? | Rita N.
An Amazing Trip to Montreal and Quebec City | Aliona B
12
CELEBRATION
25
26
27
Chaharshanbe Suri | Majid O.
My 15th Birthday Party | Marisol V.
Chinese New Year | Wei W.
GENERAL
29
30
31
A City’s Heritage | Pariya P-S.
What To Do If You Win A Big Lottery | Shoukoh A.
Natural Disaster | Amita G.
25
33
CONTENTS
HERITAGE
Jorge “Magico” Gonzalez | Leonel B.
Aboriginal Circles | Katarzyna T-R.
Beijing - A Great City | Wei W.
33
34
35
RECIPES
Algerian Cookies | Rachida L.
Ras Malai | Asma S.
Meat Salad | Iuliia S.
Delhi Biryani | Asma H.
Chicken, Cheese and Macaroni Rolls | Sanober S.
37
38
39
40
41
38
SEASONAL
43
43
44
45
46
47
48
49
Comparing Spring to Winter | Wen Yi C.
How Wonderful Spring Is | Kyungah L.
The First Time We Saw Snow | Sameh A.
Spring is Here! | Mariam A.
Mother’s Day | Nadiya Z.
Our Nice Blue Planet | Khadijeh Z.
My Lovely Violet | Gladis H.
What I Like About Spring | Hyeona J.
44
SETTLEMENT
51
51
52
53
Speaking at The Early Years Centre | Ganna B.
Searching A New Home in Canada | Botros W.
Living in Waterloo | Lydia W.
My New Life, From China to Canada | Yan S.
SKILLS
55
56
57
58
59
60
My Job | Rasha S.
How I Found My Job | Antoinette W.
Midwifery in Canada and in Iran | Kamelia G-Z.
Importance of Computers in our Life | Gamini H.
Passion For Nursing | Sandeep B.
Volunteering in Canada | Yurong W.
66
67 Glossary
Contact Us
51
56
Activity
ACTIVITY
My Pride and Passion
Xue F. | Level 3 | Ethel Anne D’s Student
In 1989, I learned one of the Chinese martial arts called
Taijiquan (commonly called, Tai chi). “Taiji,” means the
grand ultimate and “quan,” means fist. It is practised by
an individual for self-defense, for maintenance of health
as well as spiritual wellness. I have trained in the different
taijiquan styles in China -- Yang, Wu, Sun and Chen and
have also mastered multiple Kung Fu styles. I competed
in the National Chinese and international tournaments in
Beijing and so far, I have won several medals--8 gold, 12
silver and 9 bronze.
In 2008, I demonstrated the 24-Form Yang Taijiquan and
Taijii Kung Fu Fun in front of a group of 10 million people
at the Opening Ceremonies of the Beijing Summer
Olympic Games. I was so proud to do this for China.
In 2009, I compiled and published a bilingual (ChineseEnglish) Taijiquan textbook for several universities
in China. This was in collaboration with my Taijiquan
teacher who is 7 Dan. The “Dan” is how they rank
your skill in martial arts. The highest Wushu Dan is 9
Dan. I am a 5 Dan, or a Yinhu, and a certified national
instructor. I am also a member of the Chinese Martial
Arts Association and one of the famous 7th generation
graduates of Yang-Style Taijiquan from the Yang
Zhenduo School in China.
I came to Canada in 2010 to visit my daughter.
photo credits: Xue F.
I had retired by then and decided to volunteer to be
an instructor at the Milton Seniors Activity Centre in
Mississauga. I taught the art, the Taiji sword and Taiji Fun. I also participated in various martial arts events in
Toronto, Burlington, and Mississauga as a Chinese Taiji master teacher. When I became an immigrant in 2012, my
daughter and her family moved to Ottawa and convinced me and my husband to stay with them.
In Ottawa, I continued to practice Taijiquan. For two years now, I have been a teacher-volunteer at the Chinese
seniors centre near my home. I hope that Canadian residents will join and learn how to do taichi.
People often ask me about my passion for the art and why I continuously encourage it. My answer is simple
– “I truly enjoy spreading Taijiquan across cultures. I’m very proud of this martial art which promotes health,
harmony and long life.”
Spring 2014 | NEWSLINC | 7
ACTIVITY
Safety Measures for Riding a Bicycle
Faramarz B. | Level 7 | Meghann W’s Student
Riding a bicycle is an enjoyable activity for the whole family
at any time. Of course, there are some safety points to
consider in some special circumstances. For instance, it could
be dangerous if you don’t follow the safety measures while
riding on wet, slushy, or muddy surfaces, such as in winter or
even at night. You should take special precautions especially
while riding long distances.
During rainy weather, you need to use water- resistant clothes
including pants, a sweater, gloves, and shoes, and a helmet
photo credit: Faramarz B.
cover. It’s important not to turn sharply at any intersection
because the ground is wet or muddy and you could slip more easily than usual. You need to equip your
bicycle with fenders in both the front and rear to prevent water from splashing you. Don’t forget to always
ride with at least a one meter gap between parked cars - just in case the door opens and hits you.
When it’s dark, you need to use front and rear lights and special reflective clothes or tape so that other
drivers and pedestrians can see you at night. If you want to go for long distances, it’s advised to take a
small pump, some emergency tools, and extra batteries for the lights. These items are important in the
event you get a flat tire or lose screws along the way.
The toughest part is riding in the winter with temperatures
around zero or even minus degrees centigrade. While riding
in cold weather, it is necessary to cover your whole body.
Items to wear include multi-layer gloves, a woollen hat
and socks, two pants, and some layers to cover your upper
body. Of course, using layers depends on the human’s body
physiology, so some people may need more layers and the
others may need less. If the ground is icy or snowy, it’s better
to use snow tires, and ride more slowly and cautiously. If you
encounter a runny nose during the cold weather, try stuffing
a piece of cotton pad in your nostrils (this may sound odd,
but it really does work)!
photo credit: Faramarz B.
In conclusion, although riding a bicycle is enjoyable, healthy and economical, there is always a risk of
danger. There isn’t any protective layer between you and other vehicles, so you are more vulnerable than
them at all times. You must always be more cautious at night and in winter conditions. Hopefully you have
found the tips explained in this article useful and will use them to make your next riding experience more
safe and enjoyable. Happy riding!
Arts
Summer 2013 | NEWSLINC |
9
ARTS
Movie Review of “Or Noir”
Mahmoud B. | Level 4 | Angela M’s Student
‘’Or noir’’ (Black gold) isn’t my favourite movie. However, it’s very
important to me. It was the first movie I ever saw, at the cinema, in
my life. It happened in 2012. Yes, I know, it’s so crazy. So, why didn’t
I go to the cinema until 2 years ago? There is only one reason: my
parents. For them, TV and cinema are only some distractions. They
can’t help kids to think. That’s why, in our house, we had only books
and newspapers.
But now, let me tell you about ‘’Or noir’’.
It took place somewhere in Middle East, before the coming of the
Europeans. Two kings were fighting: Nessib and Amar, and Nessib
won the battle against Amar. After that, both decided to sign an
agreement. Amar gave his two sons to Nessib as hostages, who, in
turn, accepted to consider the ‘’yellow belt’’ as a border between
their two countries. They agreed that they couldn’t use this border
for anything.
A few years later, some people from a big American company came and discovered oil around the “yellow belt’’.
Nessib wanted to use this opportunity to develop his country, but he knew that he have to convince Amar. Amar
refused. For him, Islam doesn’t tolerate working with non-Muslims. According to him, wealth corrupts the heart,
and so he hated that. That’s why, for him, a Muslim only needed to focus on the spiritual life. And that’s it.
But Nessib didn’t want to give in to Amar. He tried to persuade him. How? His daughter, Leila, married Amar’s
youngest son, Auda, who lived in Nessib’s kingdom. So, Auda went to his father’s kingdom to negotiate. But Amar
refused to make a new agreement with Nessib. So, there was another battle. This time, Amar won, although he
died in the battle. Auda became the new king for the two countries, and he made Nessib, a UN ambassador. Auda
gave his agreement to use the oil in the ‘’yellow belt’’.
I like ‘’Or noir’’ because it’s part of the current affairs in the Middle East. The movie shows us how an Arabic
people were affected by the discovery of oil. It was really a challenge. On one hand, there was the opportunity
to become a developed country, which meant losing some cultural traditions. On the other hand, there was the
focus only on the spiritual without any changes. Nessib took the first position, while Amar refused to change from
the second position. The movie also showed a middle position, which was represented by Auda. But the movie
doesn’t explain in detail, what Auda would do after he became the king of the new country. It’s what I regret
about this movie.
I think the movie would be my favourite movie if the author showed more how the couple (Auda, Amar’s son,
and Leila, Nessib’s daughter) responded to their parent’s opposition, which was something like the love story
between Romeo and Juliet.
I would recommend this movie to anyone who wanted to know about how some countries in Arabia developed.
ARTS
Lauri Tilkanen
Shailesh G. | Level 4 | Supriya H’s Student
Lauri Tilkanen is a talented Finnish actor and a wonderful gift to
the world of cinema.
Tilkanen was born in Karinainen, Finland on November 6, 1987.
He had a variety of interests even when he was a child. He played
ice hockey when he was 11 years old. He also sang in the choir.
He took up his first job in a theater called Vartiovuori Turku. Then
Lauri Tilkanen graduated from the Academy of Theater Arts, and
he got his Master’s degree in the spring of 2012. His dedication
to the theater convinced everyone that Lauri Tilkanen should
become a professional actor.
Lauri Tilkanen is a nationally known actor for his notable performance in his movies Last Cowboy
Standing (2009), Silence (2011) and Once Upon a Time in the North (2012).
Once Upon a Time in the North is directed by the renowned J.P.Hedgehog. This movie is about the
1800s Puukkojunkkari who were a community in South Ostrobothnia of Finland, the lowest in the
peripheral areas of South Ostrobothnia. Puukkojunkkari were unbidden guests or a community of
small troublemakers at weddings. Some rode horses, went around drunk all over the controllers,
indulged in games of chance and resorted to stealing. In the movie a senior group is going to inherit
the Puukkojunkkari. The story is a battle of inheritance of power and the state of the Aino between two
brothers, one of which is played by Tilkanen.
Tilkanen also appeared in a great drama called ‘Skavabölen pojat’. It is the story of two brothers growing
from childhood to adulthood from the early 1970s to the early 1980s, in Kauniainen and Hyrylä.
In summer 2012 Tilkanen got engaged to Pamela Tola, an actress, with whom he had a common-law
relationship.
I like Tilkanen because he has great talent which he shows in various films and TV shows. He has a very
good collection of movies in his career portfolio.
Lauri Tilkanen has very good upcoming movies. In my opinion the audience will definitely like his great
performances, and I hope he wins an Oscar for his work some day.
ARTS
Movie Review: A Beautiful Mind
Ram A. | Level 7 | Meghann W’s Student
A Beautiful Mind, a biographical drama directed by Ron
Howard, was released during Christmas of 2001. The
movie was based on the real life story of John Nash, a
Nobel Laureate in Economics. Although the movie plot
was not entirely a true reflection of the main character’s
real life incidence, Russell Crowe beautifully played as
John Nash. Overall, the movie was wonderfully written
and the audience enjoyed the lively performances.
Plot summary
The movie starts with a professor’s speech at Princeton
College. From the beginning, John Nash is arrogant,
self preserved, but also a brilliant math student. He
tries to find mathematical explanations in everything
happening around him, though it seems stupendous
in some instances. He shares a good friendship with
his roommate, Charles, who gave him company at
Princeton and beyond. Mr. Nash develops some sort of
mental illness (schizophrenia) with visible symptoms like
demonstrating suspicious behaviour, valuing less his professor, beginning to skip classes, and also starts
developing his own mathematical assumptions and calculations. Despite his early struggle, he manages
to fulfil the requirements for successfully graduating from Princeton.
Shortly after graduation, Nash is recruited at MIT where he meets Alicia and later marries her. He is
approached by CIA Agent William Parcher (Ed Harris) for assistance in understanding codes used by
Russians. Parcher observes his activities and instructs him to follow certain principles. Nash starts
cracking codes from newspapers and magazines and drops classified documents into a mail box he
believes belongs to the Ministry of Defence. During his return visit to Princeton, he meets his old friend
Charles and Charles’s niece, Marcee. He becomes paranoid after one particular incidence of gunfire
with Russians. He is diagnosed with mental illness and sent to the hospital for treatment but he believes
the hospital staff is Russian and these people are trying to get information from him. It was discovered
that he was having visual illusions due to his mental illness. However, he soon stops taking medicine
citing the medications were affecting his relationship with his wife. It’s no wonder he again develops
symptoms and his doctor recommends a higher dose of therapy to which Nash argues he could manage
himself without medication. He believed the illness is a product of his mind and he can control it. In
fact, he manages to neglect his imaginary characters, although they continue to reappear. In the end, he
ARTS
goes on to winning the prestigious Nobel Prize in Economics for his revolutionary work.
Critical review
A Beautiful Mind is a beautifully directed movie with a good plot. The actors did justice to their
characters. The story seems very convincing to viewers and presents a good case of mental illnesses.
The facts about the real John Nash were in fact twisted in the movie, but I believe this was realized to
make the movie interesting, which was completely justifiable. Generally speaking, we never go to the
theatre to watch a documentary on the life of a person but rather to enjoy a movie. In short, the critic
of the movie being loosely related to the real story of John Nash doesn’t make the movie any worse but
it indeed makes it more interesting and lively.
Verdict
The movie was safe enough to watch with family including young kids as it has a good plot with decent
dialogues and interesting subject matter. The movie beautifully presents the case of schizophrenia and
its symptoms. It is much easier to understand the suffering of a mentally ill person after watching the
movie.
Reference
1. Crowe Russel, A Beautiful Mind [dvd] 2002, retrieved January 2014.
2. “A Beautiful Mind,”2014, retrieved January 2014 from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/A_Beautiful_
Mind_(film)
3. Nigel G. Mitchell, “A Beautiful Lie: The Truth Behind “A Beautiful Mind,” 2008, retrieved January,
2014, from http://monkeymigraine.blogspot.ca/2007/12/beautiful-lie-truth-behind-beautiful.html
Bios
BIOS
My Life
Ren G. | Level 3 | Theresa R’s Student
I had a nice childhood. I was proud of our family in
China. There were the parents, grandma and five
siblings in our family. My grandma had a special love
for me. She made some delicious food for me. My older
brother taught me to fix the radio and bicycle. He dug a
goldfish pool by himself in our backyard. He taught me
how to make the goldfish grow from hatching to adult.
I can still remember. First of all, we need to put the
pregnant goldfish into a natural water box. Next, we
need to put some water grass in it. We must keep the
temperature at 20 degrees Celsius. After a few days, we
saw alot of goldfish eggs in the water grass. We kept
the box in the sun. After about one month, we saw alot
of baby goldfish in the box. Finally, we separated the
baby goldfish and put it in fresh water. It is important
and hard work to make goldfish food. First of all, we
used a wire to make a ring shape. Next, we attached a
bag to the ring.The bag let the water seep out and also kept the goldfish food. We rode our bicycle very
far to get goldfish food from a natural pond. Finally, we took the net with goldfish food, put it into a
natural water bottle and bought it home.
I had such a good job in China. I worked at technology information and credit card department in a
bank. I had a good income. However, for complicated personal reasons, I felt my spirit was down and I
moved to Canada.
When I came to Canada for the first time in 2005, I didn’t like it here. Both sides of the road had wire
poles. I thought that should be buried underground in a developed country. We just stayed a week,
then we went back to China. But, my son liked Canada. We came back to Canada in 2007. This time, I
quit my job in China. I met an economic crisis in 2008. I really had no experience, no language and no
work. I stayed home for about two years. I worked hard to learn English during that time, but my English
level progressed very slowly.
This was in the winter of 2012. I will never forgot this thing. I drove my car to go to University of Toronto.
There was a very big snowstorm on that day. My car couldn’t get over the slope at the University of
Toronto campus. Several students initiative helped me to push my car over the slope. When I saw my
son, I told him what happened. Both of us thought, when other people have problems, we should help
to them. This is one of the reasons that I like Canada.
BIOS
My Biography
Yanheng T. | Level 5 | Robyn L’s Student
My name is Yanheng, but most of my friends call
me Yan. I was born in Xinhui, China. My first
language is Cantonese. Although Xinhui is not a
big city like Beijing, Shanghai, or Guangzhou, in my
mind it is peaceful, simply beautiful and friendly.
Most importantly, I have lots of memories there.
I grew up in a nuclear family. Both of my parents
were teachers. They are retired now. My older
sister has a daughter who is ten years old. She
is a cute, smart and polite girl. All of my family
lives in the same city. Like the bulk of Chinese
parents, my parents help my sister take care of
her daughter. As the younger generation, we
respect our parents. Our family is full of love,
harmony and happiness.
In 2003, I completed college in Shanghai with a
major in nursing. After graduating, I started to work as a nurse in my hometown. I worked for more
than eight years. I used to work in the department of cardiology, emergency and neurosurgery. During
that time, I enhanced my professional knowledge. I treasured each chance to improve my abilities.
In 2009, I met the man of my dreams, Simon. He is a Chinese-Canadian. We began to communicate
with each other through the Internet. After a long time, I found that we had many similar ideas on
various topics. He was my Mr. Right and I eventually decided to get married to him. In 2010, we had a
big wedding with both of our families and friends. After that, he came back to Canada.
After 18 months of waiting, I got a visa to come to Canada. In January 2012, I landed in Canada. It was
such a warm moment, although it was snowing outside. I was excited and hugged my husband. Soon
after, the honeymoon ended. I began to feel upset that life was so boring. I had no friends, no social
activity, no job except for endless household chores, chopping, cooking, and washing. Once again, it
was just another day. I repeated the same work every day. Was this the life that I wanted in Canada?
Why did I leave everything behind me to come here? What was my future? A series of questions
came into my mind. Then, I realized that I was pregnant. At the same time, I was going to the Rainbow
Community Service Center for LINC courses. I had hope again.
In November 2012, my first child Anna came to the world. She is my little angel who gives me power,
BIOS
energy and passion in my life. I give all my heart to raise my sweetheart. My life is full of joy again.
Meanwhile, I realized I need to improve myself. Now, I am lucky to be a student in the LINC Home Study
Program. My second baby will be born next month. For now, this is the appropriate job for me. I can
personally take care of my child while I enjoy my learning.
It is true that life is not easy. I need to keep improving myself. I have a dream that my children will be
raised by me. We will grow together. We will be a nuclear family. We will share our opinions with each
other without a generation gap. After they grow up, wherever they go, I could find their hearts. I also
dream that I can find my place in Canada.
That is my story. I hope my dream will come true one day.
My Biography
Wendy T. | Level 7 | Sondra S’s Student
My name is Wendy I was born in Jamaica .I
grew up in extreme poverty. I recall going
many days at a time without food. My
parents however, knew the importance
of an education. My siblings and I were
sent to school in our community. School
was within walking distance. As children
growing up, we never got books to take
to school. My parents could not afford
it. Books were luxury. My father who is
a fairly intelligent man taught us most of
our foundation knowledge and he always
told us to learn our lessons well when we
went to school. He further explained to us
that we would need a sound education to take us through life.
I managed to graduate from secondary school at age seventeen. I was very ambitious and wanted to
attend college to become an accountant. I could not afford it. So I started working and ten years later I
attended college to become a teacher. Today I am the proud holder of a Bachelor of Education Degree
from the prestigious University of the West Indies.
My struggles to accomplish my dream goals are still alive. Today I am an immigrant to Canada. I am
presently struggling to find that one job which will allow me to pay all my bills and have something
saved for the rainy day. Whenever I receive that job I seek for so diligently, I will continue on the path
of higher education. I am looking forward to the day when I will set foot in a university to read for my
Master’s Degree.
Canada
CANADA
Canada
Maria B. | Level 5 | James T’s Student
Canada’s nature is very similar to my native Russia. My mom
knows so much about gardening here in Canada just because
she has the same plants in Russia.
Canada for me is a free, happy country, where children of different countries can play together without any worries about
what people look like. Because of this, they are interested in
each other.
No one here has ever said to another, “What strange headgear
you have!;” here we will hear this: “What a beautiful hat you
have! You probably come from a very interesting country!
The Canadian government gives big support to schools for training in the national languages, for example, Ukrainian, German, French, English-speaking provinces, Indian and Jewish. There are almost half a million Jews in Canada;
many of them came from Russia. There are a hundred thousand Russians in Canada.
Canada gives a good example to the other countries by respecting the national feelings of each other. Because it
so easy to provide respect you can only smile at your neighbor. Here is the benefit from it; a happy, relaxed, interesting life in God’s beautiful, diverse world.
CANADA
Unforgettable Weekend with My Canadian Co-Workers
Adoneis A. | Level 5 | Christine L’s Student
I had a good time and unforgettable weekend
last summer with my Canadian and Egyptian coworkers at The CN Tower in Toronto. I work at a gas
station in Mississauga. The Manager decided to
take all of the employees from four stations to the
CN Tower. We started our trip from Mississauga
to Toronto in the Manager’s expensive car.
When we got to the tower, the group used the
elevator, and it took a long time until we reached
the moving restaurant at the top. We took many
photos of the attractive and marvellous scenery
of the green and vast areas of land, tall trees, and
above us, the beautiful clouds that covered the
sky. Then, we stood on the glass floors and we
took some pictures of the whole group. After that,
we had our dinner. Each one chose his favourite
dish and drinks. I chose fish with macaroni and
salad. After that we came down from the tower and we had a long walk in the streets. We enjoyed our
time in Toronto in the nice weather with nice friends.
I knew some of my co-workers, but I met new ones too. This was a nice trip that my Manager organized
and now I can say that I have been to a famous Canadian landmark – the CN Tower.
CANADA
My Dream Come True
Angela L. | Level 5 | Katherine W’s Student
All children have a dream to become a nurse,
policeman, doctor, business man or woman or even to
become president of their country. These are some of
children’s dreams.
When I was a child I dreamt to go different places and
countries. This is what makes me desire to be literate
and finished my schooling. To make your dream come
true you must have perseverance and determination.
Coming here to Canada was one of my dreams come
true.
When I came here it was snowing and freezing. I was so excited and nervous to see the snow how it looks
like and how cold it was because I only saw it in a movie or television. I was very overwhelmed for my
new place to live and hurriedly ask my employer to use their telephone to call my family and friends in
the Philippines. I have told them how beautiful Canada and how amazing of our God regarding the snow.
They are so happy for me and they also want to come here.
Living in Canada makes my life easy because it helps me to be independent, nurturing, and responsible.
There’s a lot of beautiful places here in Canada. Here are some of the places that you’ll surely love and
enjoy.
First, the famous Niagara Falls, where you can experience to ride a boat going near the Falls and they call
it the Maid of the Mist. You will also notice the Peace Bridge that represents the boundaries between
United States and Canada.
Secondly, The House of Parliament in Ottawa, where you can go inside and take a picture and have
an idea of what and where the government officials of Canada go during their meetings and decision
making about government. You will also enjoy the beautiful scenery of their tulips garden where you can
see their varieties and well organized.
Thirdly, during the month of May you can see cherry blossoms in High Park in Toronto. You will smell
their fragrance which helps in relaxing and calming of our body and mind.
These are the few places that I can recommend but there’s lots of beautiful places to go here in Canada.
I’m so blessed that God permitted me to live in Canada and it was My Dream Come True.
CANADA
What Do I Like About Living in Canada?
Rita N. | Level 4 | Nataliya B’s Student
I like living in Canada because of
the high standard of living, the
world class education and strong
economy, and good health system.
The beauty of the сountry and
the clean environment is another
thing that I like. I enjoy all the four
seasons in Canada.
When I came to Canada, I was
impressed by its climate. I come
from Ghana, which is a country in
Africa. In my country, we do not
have four distinct seasons. Usually,
we have two seasons, which are
dry season and rainy season. When
I came to Canada, I was impressed
by how distinct seasons in Canada
are - warm spring, hot summer, rainy fall and very cold winter. I enjoy the change of seasons and even
though it took me some time to get used to them, I really like the changes in nature during various
seasons.
Another thing I appreciate in Canada is its strong economy. In my country the economic system is poor;
there are a lot of people who are not working.There is not much work or money in the system in Ghana,
but when I came Canada it is different - there are a lot of jobs and people go to work everyday. Some
can even have two jobs to help them support their families, and I am happy to see that. I look forward
to the the time when I can start working because I really enjoy working.
CANADA
An Amazing Trip to Montreal and Quebec City
Aliona B. | Level 7 | Zakia S’s Student
I would like to write about an amazing
and memorable trip we had last
December. My husband and I had
a few days off, so we decided that
rather than sitting at home, we should
go somewhere. We chose Montreal
and Quebec City. I was so happy
because I like travelling. I took over all
the arrangements – booking hotels,
researching places, and making a list
of attractions etc.
On the long-awaited day, we took
our baggage and headed for the
adventure! After reaching Montreal,
we first went to Montreal’s NotreDame Basilica. I had read that it is
Montreal’s oldest Catholic Church and is known for its very beautifully designed interior. I don’t know if I
can explain my feelings when I first saw it. It was more beautiful than what I had read about it. When you
enter and see the beautiful interior, you start feeling like you are in Paris. There is a feeling of tranquility;
especially for someone who lives a very hectic life. After a short visit to the City Hall, we headed to our
hotel. It was a very cold day, -25 C. The hotel was small, but clean and comfortable and the staff was very
friendly.
Next day, we headed for Quebec City. First, we visited Basilica of Saint-Anne-de-Beaupre. The Basilica is
set along the Saint Lawrence River. It is a big white building with two towers. Inside there was a little
stage that displayed various stages of Jesus’ life. If you spend a few minutes in front of it and look at him,
you start feeling like he is coming back to life. In the lower level, is the copy of the Pieta – this is a copy of
sculpture by Michelangelo Buonarroti. The original is in St. Peter’s Basilica, Vatican City. Of course there
is also a beautiful statue of Sainte-Anne with a baby in hands. On our way to hotel, we stopped to see
the Montmorency Falls. It was covered by ice, and under the ice, flowed the water. It was breath-taking.
Next day we went to the world famous Ice Hotel, which deserves to be seen. It is open only from November
to March every year. When you enter inside, you see that everything is made of ice, the columns, statues,
rooms, and furniture in the rooms, almost everything! In the restaurant, even drinks are offered in iceglasses!
Celebration
Fall 2013 | NEWSLINC | 24
CELEBRATION
Chaharshanbe Suri
Majid O. | Level 5 | James T’s Student
There are many ancient traditions and celebrations in
Iran, for example, Norous (first day of the new year),
Shabe Yalda (the longest night of the year), Eid Mabaas
(the day that Mohammad was selected as a prophet)
and Chaharshanbe Suri, some of them belonged to
Persia before Islam came to Iran and at that time the
religion of the Iranian people was Zoroastrianism.
Chaharshanbe Suri, is an interesting Iranian ancient
tradition and is a fire jumping festival; it is started on
the evening of last Tuesday of the year until Wednesday
morning. Chahafshanbe means Wednesday and Suri
means red. People make bonfires and jump over them
singing “zardi-ye man az toh, sorkhi-ye toh az man”. The
literal translation is, my yellow is yours, and your red is
mine. This is a purification rite. Loosely translated, this
means you want the fire to take your pallor, sickness,
and problems and in turn give you redness, warmth,
and energy.
Bonfires are lit to “keep the sun alive” until early
morning. There is Zoroastrian religious significance
attached to Chahārshanbeh Suri and it serves as a
cultural festival for Iranian peoples: Persian Jews, Persian Muslims, Assyrians native to Iran, Persian Armenians,
Kurds, and Persian Zoroastrians.
Another tradition of this day is to make special ajeel, or mixed nuts and berries. People, especially young girls
and boys, wear disguises and go door to door knocking on doors similar to trick-or-treating. Receiving of the
Ajeel is customary, as is the receiving of a bucket of water. In many past years, because the event is in the last
month of the winter and after that spring comes soon, people gathered with their family and ate the nuts and
ajeel saved through the winter.
Nowadays Iranian people celebrate Chaharshanbe Suri all over the world and transfer this ancient tradition to
their children and their next generation.
CELEBRATION
My 15th Birthday Party
Marisol V. | Level 6 | Linda C’s Student
In Mexico, there is a tradition when girls turn
15 years old to celebrate with a special party. In
this celebration the girl is called “Quinceanera”
and she is the princess of the night, and like
princesses the Quinceanera wears a long dress in
her favorite color and style.
My fifteenth birthday was perfect. I had a great
time with my friends and family. There was
everything that made it a very special night for
me. First, the dinner was in a private very nice
restaurant and the food was delicious. I remember
that night I couldn’t eat all my dinner because I
was greeting everyone table by table and thanking
them for coming to my part. When I finished
greetings, the time of the dinner was done and
everybody was going to a private nightclub where
the party continued. In the nightclub I danced a
special dance with my chambelanes (most of the time there are a group of younger men “chambelanes”
who accompanies the Quinceaneras in their dances). After that I danced and enjoyed my party with my
loved ones through a beautiful and most memorable night in my life.
CELEBRATION
Chinese New Year
Wei W. | Level 6 | Fernand V’s Student
Chinese New Year is a traditional Chinese holiday
and Spring Festival. Because the Chinese calendar
is lunisolar, so it is called Chinese Lunar New Year.
Chinese New Year is centuries old. Throughout the
year Chinese people wait eagerly for this day. Busy
people and businessmen can take a rest because the
festival lasts for 15 days.
It is the last day of the last month of the year. Parents
wait for their children to come back home from
different parts of the world. The children hope to get
big red envelopes from parents and relatives which
contain money.
People prepare many things before the festival.
Shopping centres and supermarkets become extremely
crowded. The most important thing is to clean your
home thoroughly and properly because this is done
in order to sweep the dirty things and bad evil spirits
away from peoples’ homes.
Windows are decorated with beautiful red paper-cut and doors are attached by couplets with lucky words like
“wealth”, “longevity “and “happiness”. The big dinner includes all kinds of food people can cook.
Fish is a symbol for having enough money in the future. Chinese dumplings also indicate money that is
expected to come. Having some peanut seeds symbolize that a young couple will have more children.
On the first day of the Chinese calendar, people wear costumes of red and bright new clothing from head
to toe with the belief of scaring away evil spirits and anticipating good fortune. Lion dances and fireworks
are presented on the streets. People in China and elsewhere in the world celebrate this occasion with much
enjoyment.
General
GENERAL
A City’s Heritage
Pariya P-S. | Level 6 | Jonathan B’s Student
Historic places have always been of interest to some
people that is why a city should try to preserve its
old, historic buildings. Attention to the beautiful
carving in an ancient building make people
think about how and by whom they were built?
Meanwhile a variety of colors used in old buildings
as compared with mono coloring in modern
buildings make public spaces more enjoyable. On
the other hand, ancient buildings enhance the
tourism industry as visitors from other places want
to see if there is something special to see. This
could help government revenue, create jobs and
overall benefit all inhabitants of that city.
Despite all the above reasons for preserving its old,
historic buildings, modern cities and buildings are
always attractive in their own way. New and up to
date buildings are a character that all sections of
a society will accept. Modern cities display new
technology. Improvements in technology will open
new ways of incorporating more facilities and
comfort. People can meet their needs and live in a more efficient and cleaner environment. These are
some of the reasons why lots of people prefer to stay in modern towns and even new buildings instead
of old ones.
My view is living in such modern cities has its advantages but, a modern town devoid of any old, historic
buildings will not have any heritage for its inhabitants. On the other hand can you imagine a modern town
with some ancient building right in the middle of the town? For this reason, sometimes old buildings
may be relocated to preserve the old world charm and show the lifestyle of people who lived many years
ago. So, these buildings need to be protected by government laws to avoid destroying them. It gives
people a sense of having both modern and old, warm and inviting space and cold concrete skyscrapers.
So, people can enjoy the comforts of modern living as well as marvel at the architectural details of old
buildings.
GENERAL
What To Do If You Win A Big Lottery
Shoukoh A. | Level 7 | Jonathan B’s Student
Thinking about winning a lump sum of cash
drives everyone into frenzy. What would I do if
I got it someday? I’ve always heard the stories
about how many lottery winners go bankrupt
after embarking on massive spending sprees.
At first, a wise man may try to keep his/her life
as normal as possible since windfalls bring their
own stress. I wouldn’t let the sudden cash burn
a hole in my pocket. Therefore, quitting my job
is the worst thing that may happen. I’ll try to be
relaxed and keep my job on, however; I would
like to take more vacation to enjoy the money.
Second, I think how I can strike a balance between my short-term interests and with my long-term
goals. Having a comfortable house, not a very luxurious one, can be a wise decision in this situation. I
won’t crave for a luxury car as my own works well and I am still happy to drive it. It’s not right to blow
all my money on things that I don’t really need other than going on little spending sprees.
Third, I’ll set a fixed amount for monthly donation to an Iranian charity that does work well for sick kids
who suffer from cancer. I always like to do something for the kids who are living in uninvited trouble.
In addition, I always love going around the world. I would start traveling around my country at the
outset, then around Canada and the other countries. It’s a no-brainer that I won’t want to spend the
money straight away. Therefore, I would save a part of the money in the bank and spend it for travel;
one week’s travel every six months.
Last but not least, among my many fantasies is one in which I’d like to share my happiness with my
relatives and family members in particular. So I will start an interest free loan system. In this system a
group of friends or family members will pool in money every month till it reaches a substantial amount,
for example $10,000. But, instead of taking money from others, since I have a big win, I could make
the contribution of $10,000. Then, names are drawn and the lucky person gets to borrow and use that
money to be repaid after one year without paying any interest. In this way I can help my family and
friends who are in need of money for a short period of time.
In short, I might win, or I might not but just on a whim I am going to buy a ticket tomorrow! However, I
promise to keep my current life simple.
GENERAL
Natural Disaster
Amita G. | Level 6 | Paramjit B’s Student
I have experienced a few Natural Disasters in my
life .The one I remember the most is: non - stop
rain for 10 days. If I still remember correctly, it
was in February 1989. I was out with my friends
and it started to rain. We had to rush home as
quickly as possible.
As soon I came home, my dad listened to the
news on the radio. On the news forecast, it didn’t
say when the rain will stop. Sure enough it rained
through the night. After the fourth day, the water
started to seep into our rooms and kitchen. At
that time we had our kitchen set up on the floor.
My dad had to go out in the rain to get some
wood to build temporary shelves for us to be able
to cook food.
At the end of that day the power went off. We used to have gas stove so we cooked food for ourselves.
But few of our neighbors still used the old fashioned wood stove so we invited them over to cook their
meals too. Then our roof started to leak my dad huddled us all (my mom and my sisters and me) to one
of the rooms which was still dry and safe for us. We stayed there for another 3 days. By the time the rain
was over our house was totally soaked with rain -water coming through the roof.
One side of the house had fallen down and you can see things floating in the water. To get to my uncle’s
house that was on a higher ground; we had to walk in the water which was up to our knees. Sitting on
my dad’s shoulders, I could see the damage caused by the rain. So many houses were demolished by the
rain and rubble was everywhere.
Few days later we went back to clean our place. What I saw was horrifying. My house had fallen on the
ground. There was nothing left of it. It took my dad over a year to finally rebuild the house.
Heritage
HERITAGE
Jorge “Magico” Gonzalez
Leonel B. | Level 4 | Supriya H’s Student
Jorge Alberto Gonzalez Barillas, popularly known as “Magico” (which
means wizard in English), is the best soccer player born in El Salvador. He
represented the national soccer team of El Salvador for over a decade and
played in the soccer world cup (in Spain in 1982). This was an opportunity
for the world to see one of the most extraordinary soccer players with
great ball control.
“Magico” Gonzalez was born on March 13, 1958 into a poor family in San
Salvador, the capital of El Salvador. He has six brothers and one sister. His
older brother, Mauricio “Pachin” Gonzalez, was a very good soccer player
at the local level.
He began his professional career (in El Salvador) with the ANTEL team in
1975. He played for the team for one year, and then he played for one of
the most popular teams of El Salvador for 5 years (CD FAS).
After the World Cup in 1982, two teams from the professional soccer league of Spain (Atletico de Madrid and
Cadiz FC) wanted “Magico” to play for them. He decided to play for Cadiz FC. In Spain he played for Cadiz FC from
1982 to 1984, for Valladolid in 1985 and then he came back again to Cadiz FC (1986 to 1991).
Professional soccer teams in France (Paris Sanit-Germain F.C.), Italy (Atalanta B.C., ACF Fiorentina, U.C. Sampdoria)
and Spain (FC Barcelona) wanted Magico to play for them, but he refused because he did not care for fame or
money. However, he did play one game for FC Barcelona in the United States in 1983, and he played with Diego
Armando Maradona. .
“Magico” returned to his country and played again for CD FAS. He stayed with the team until his retirement in
2000.
He scored more than 200 goals during his professional career.
In 2003, the Salvadoran National Assembly gave Jorge “Magico” Gonzalez the government’s highest honour “Hijo
Meritisimo of El Salvador” (which means that he is one of the most important sons of El Salvador) and renamed
the national stadium from “Flor Blanca Stadium” to “Magico Gonzalez Stadium”.
Recently, Jorge “Magico” Gonzalez was included as part of the third generation of the Football (Soccer) Hall of
Fame in Pachuca, Mexico. This was a historic day for Salvadoran soccer as he became the first non-Mexican soccer
player from CONCACAF (Central American and Caribbean Association Football) to be selected for this award.
Currently, Jorge “Magico” Gonzalez lives in El Salvador, where he is promoting youth competitions.
HERITAGE
Aboriginal Circles
Katarzyna T-R. | Level 7 | Fiona E’s Student
Circles represent important principles
in the Aboriginal worldview and belief
systems like interconnectedness, equality,
and continuity. According to traditional
teaching, the seasonal pattern of life and
renewal and the movement of animals and
people were continuous, like a circle, which
has no beginning and no end. Circles suggest
inclusiveness and the lack of a hierarchy.
They are found throughout nature – in the
movement of the seasons and the sun’s
movement from east to west during the day.
Circles are also used in the construction of
teepees and sweat lodges; and the circular
willow hoop, medicine wheel, and dream
catchers are powerful symbols.
Talking circles symbolize completeness and equality. All circle participants’ views must be respected and
listened to. All comments directly address the question or the issue, not the comments another person
has made. In the circle, an object that symbolizes connection to the land –for example, a stick, a stone,
or a feather–can be used to facilitate the circle. Only the person holding the “talking stick” has the right
to speak. Participants can indicate their desire to speak by raising their hands. Going around the circle
gives everyone the opportunity to participate. Silence is also acceptable–any participant can choose not
to speak.
Rather than aggressive debate and challenging each other, the circle process establishes a safe place
in which all present have the opportunity to speak without interruptions. Communication is regulated
through the passing of a talking piece-an object of special meaning or symbolism to the circle facilitator
who is usually called the circle keeper.
The talking piece promotes respectful listening and reflection. It prevents one to one debating or
attacking. After brief opening comments by the circle keeper about the purpose of the talking circle,
listing of ground rules and asking for additional contributions to the ground rules, the circle keeper says a
few things about the talking piece and then passes it to the person on the left, clockwise. Only the person
with the talking piece can speak. If others jump in with comments, the circle keeper reminds them of
the ground rules and re-focuses on the person with the talking piece. Participants are not required to
speak: this would create an un-safe, pressured tone to the circle. If someone feels unable to speak they
can simply pass the talking piece to the next person.
HERITAGE
The purpose is to create a safe, place to discuss an issue or react to a speaker that allows the opportunity
for each person to speak, without interruptions. It is also to engage in a sharing of authentic personal
reactions and feelings that are owned by each individual and acknowledged by others, without judgment
or condemnation.
Rules:
1. Listen with respect.
2. Each person gets a chance to talk.
3. One person talks at a time. Don’t cut people off.
4. Speak for yourself and not as the representative of any group.
5. It’s OK to disagree. No name-calling or attacking.
Beijing - A Great City
Wei W. | Level 5 | Fernand V’s Student
Beijing is a great place to visit. There
are many heritage places, such as The
Great Wall, Tiananmen Square and The
Forbidden City, which attracts thousands
of tourists from different countries. Beijing
is also a wonderful place to experience
different restaurants such as Japanese
restaurants, Korean restaurants and Italian
restaurants located in downtown Beijing.
Beijing is not only a great eating area, but it
also is a shopping paradise. At the Malls at
Oriental Plaza, Yin ta Center and Shin Kong
Place, you can buy almost anything there.
You can get the newest French products
without being in Paris. I should definitely
recommend going to Beijing, when you are
planning your next vacation.
Recipes
RECIPES
Algerian Cookies
Rachida L. | Level 4 | Deborah K’s Student
Ingredients:
3 cups of flour
1 cup of butter, melted
a pinch of salt
3/4 cup of icing sugar
1 egg
1/2 tsp of baking powder
1 tsp of vanilla extract
5 tbsp of orange blossom water
water (if needed)
Filling:
2 cups of almonds, finely crushed
1 cup of icing sugar
3 tbsp of butter, melted
1 tsp of vanilla extract
3 tsp of orange blossom water
Preparation:
In a large bowl, mix sifted flour, salt, icing sugar and baking powder. Make a whole in the mixture, and
put in your egg, cooled butter and vanilla extract. After that, mix the mixture with your hands and add in
your orange blossom water until it forms a dough. If your dough is too dry, add water as needed. Once
your dough is nicely mixed, divide your dough into balls the size of clementines and place them onto a
baking tray. Cover with plastic wrap and let the dough set for 30 minutes. In the meantime, you can make
the filling.
In a large bowl, mix almonds, icing sugar, butter, vanilla and orange blossom water. Once your balls have
set, put flour on your work space and roll each ball, shape into triangles with a base about 10 cm and
sides about 15 cm. On the base of each triangle, put a sausage size amount of your almond mixture
and roll it into a little croissant. If wanted, dip the croissant into a lightly whisked egg white and then,
dip it into a plate of sliced almonds. Then, place your dessert onto a greased baking tray and cook in a
preheated oven at 350 degrees fahrenheit. Bake until nice and brown on the bottom and until the dough
on top has slightly hardened, between 15 minutes and 30 minutes.
Tip: When cooled, sprinkle a little bit of icing sugar on top of each one to add a nice finish.
Enjoy with friends and family, delicious!
RECIPES
Ras Malai
Asma S. | Level 6 | Lesley H’s Student
Ingredients:
1 cup powdered milk
1 egg
1 tbsp. cooking oil
1 tsp. baking powder
1 litre 3% milk
6 tbsp. white sugar
1 green cardamom pod (Chhoti Ilaichi)
1 tbs. chopped pistachios (Pistay)
1/2 tsp. Kewra essence or vanilla extract
Instructions:
Mix together the powdered milk, egg, cooking oil, and baking powder to make a dough and form into small
oval, slightly flattened balls.
Meanwhile, heat the milk with sugar and ilaichi seeds for 30 minutes on low heat.
When the milk starts to boil, add the malai dough balls.
When they start to swell up, lower the heat and cook for 10 minutes.
Just before removing from the heat, add the kewra essence. Garnish with pista.
Chill for one hour and serve.
Serving: 24 pieces for 8 to 10 persons
RECIPES
Meat Salad
Iuliia S. | Level 3 | Jessica W’s Student
Instructions:
Trim the fat from 0.5 - 1 kg of beef, pork, or chicken. Use
1 kind of meat or mix the meats. Use more or less meat,
depending on how much you need or want.
Boil until tender.
Cut into small strips.
Cut the onion into half rings.
Sprinkle with vinegar and tenderize a little.
Combine the meat and onions and stir.
Add salt, ground black pepper, vinegar, and sunflower oil (or what you like) all to your taste.
Stir all again, and lay in a bowl and put in the refrigerator for 4-6 hours.
Bon appétit!
RECIPES
Delhi Biryani
Asma H. | Level 4 | Andrea R’s Student
Dehli Biryani comes from Dehli, India and is a very famous food in Pakistan
and India. It is made with rice and meat. There are many types of biryani,
but Dehli Biryani’s speciality is that it is not spicy like other types of biryanis.
Anyone can eat it and enjoy this dish.
In India and Pakistan, people make this biryani occasionally for marriage parties, reception parties and gatherings. We also make it during our holy occasions such as EID UL FITAR and EID UL ADHA. We also make Raita (yogurt
sauce) with it. For people who like spicy food, we makea garlic hot sauce for
them.
You have to try this dish because everyone loves it. This food item is popular
in all ethnic groups.
Ingredients:
Mutton
1kg
Rice
1 kg (soak in water for 2 hrs and then boil with 4 teaspoons of salt. Drain it, wash it with cold water and let dry)
Salt to taste
Red chilli powder ¼ tsp
Ginger paste
1 tsp
Garlic paste
1tsp
Onion
1 ½ (cut in slice)
Oil
1 cup
Water as needed
Cloves 8, black paper 8, cinnamon 2 pieces about 1 inch, green cardamom 8, cumin seeds 1 ½ tsp
Yellow food colouring for sprinkle
Instructions:
Fry onion in oil. When it changes colour, add ginger garlic paste, cloves, cardamom, cinnamon, black paper and cumin seeds
then stir it and add the mutton and fry it for 2 minutes. Next, put in 2 cups of water, 1 ½ tsp salt, and ¼ tsp red chilli powder.
Stir it and cover it and let it cook on low heat until the mutton is tender. Then turn up the heat to high until the water evaporates.
Now in a large pan, do the layering. First layer the mutton, then the boiled rice. Then sprinkle a few drops of lemon juice, a
few drops of oil and sprinkle in the yellow colouring. After that, repeat the layering and cover it. Let it cook at low heat about
15 to 20 minutes. Mix it and dish it out.
Serve with Raita (yogurt sauce) or hot garlic sauce.
Raita (yogurt sauce)
Plain yogurt (1 cup), ¼ tsp salt, ¼ cup onion chopped, ¼ cup cucumber chopped, paste of 1 green chilli and ¼ cup of coriander
leaves and some water
Just mix the above ingredients together and pour into a bowl.
Hot garlic sauce.
Red whole chillis 15, garlic (1 whole or 10 cloves), tamarind pulp (2 tbsp), salt (½ tsp), cumin seeds (½ tsp) and ½ cup of water.
Blend together and pour into a bowl.
RECIPES
Chicken, Cheese and Macaroni Rolls
Sanober S. | Level 6 | Zakia S’s Student
Ingredients:
Chicken; 3 breast pieces boiled and shredded
Boiled Macaroni mashed, 2 cups
Pizza cheese grated, 1 1/2 cup
Green chilies coarsely ground, 6
Red chili powder, 1tsp
Vinegar ,1tsp
Soya Sauce, 2tsp
Bread crumbs, 1 cup
Oil for deep frying
Salt to taste
Instructions:
Mix all the ingredients except the bread crumbs and oil into hard dough. Cover the dough and leave for 20
minutes at room temperature.
Divide dough into 30 portions. Apply grease to hands and roll each portion into a kebab like roll. Then roll
it in bread crumbs. Deep fry 4 at a time in a very hot oil until golden brown and then on low heat for a few
minutes to make them crispy.
Remove to kitchen paper to drain.
Serve hot with chili garlic sauce.
Serve 4-6
Preparation time 30 minutes
Cooking time 20 minutes
Seasonal
SEASONAL
Comparing Spring to Winter
Wen Yi C. | Level 3 | James T’s Student
There are equal seasons in my country. Each season takes
3 months so we do things to suit every season. But here it
is different. In St. John’s, spring is short, summer is short
and fall is short, but we have a lengthy winter every year.
I can remember the thrill of the first time that I saw the
snow, but after 3 years I realize that I really need to go out
more often in summer. If I fritter away the summer, the
sunshine will not return until next year.
Now I adapt to the weather in Newfoundland. I do
outdoor activities as much as I can in summer and stay at
home in winter.
How Wonderful Spring Is
Kyungah L. | Level 3 | James T’s Student
When new leaves start to grow from the tree branches,
Canadians go to pick fiddleheads. Those fiddleheads are
a great ingredient to cook with butter and vinegar. At the
same time of the year, Koreans also pick gosari and use
them as a food ingredient. We make side dishes like Yook
Gae Jang, which is similar to soup.
Last year, I picked gosari and felt the beautiful forests
of Canada. When I was concentrating on picking them,
suddenly a light shower came from the sky. The leaves
that got frozen during the winter have melted again and
a light shower fell on them. It sounded better than any
symphony.
I forgot about picking gosari and sat down on a stone that was covered with moss and I closed my eyes
and let the shower mist my face for a long, long time; I am still waiting for that special time of the year.
Not just for the gosari, but all the other beautiful things of spring also.
SEASONAL
The First Time We Saw Snow
Sameh A. | Level 5 | Kirsten McCarthy’s Student
Although most people in Canada complain
about the cold weather, for me this weather
is very lovely. The reason for that is very
simple. I spent most of my life in Egypt where
it was so hot during the summer season. I
still remember my kids could not bear the
hot ground when we were at the beach
and we couldn’t even touch my car or sit in
when I left it in the sun even for two hours.
Besides, I sweat a lot even it is not so hot.
I really suffered for a long time in the hot
weather. In the hot weather, it’s difficult to
get comfortable. But, in the colder weather,
I can easily get comfortable by putting on
warm clothes.
I still remember the first time I saw the snow. I was driving my van and my wife was with me when we
heard a small knocking on the van roof and the front windshield. We were afraid it was small drops
of frost rain!! After some time we realized it called “hail”. Then we started to learn a lot of words and
expressions about the snow. Such as, snow, ice, frost, slush, squall, inclement weather, slippery, snow
storm, flurries. But, when we saw the snow after couple of days my family and I were happy and my kids
were waiting for the snow to play with their new Canadian friends in the snow for the first time. They
were ready to bundle up when it snow. Again they add to our information that there is another thing like
snow angel not only the snow man that we heard about. Even a couple of my friends want to come to
visit me in Canada during the winter to enjoy the snow that they heard only or saw on the TV shows or
in the western movies. Last week when I was talking with one of my friends on Skype his wife asked him
to prepare to visit us in Canada during the next winter to enjoy the snow. For me I like the snow for my
kids they also like the snow, but my wife really does not like this very cold weather, the slippery and icy
roads because she is afraid of slipping.
Even though I like the winter, we are looking forward to spring because it doesn’t rain often in Egypt and
I myself like the rain so much. I think if anyone lived for a long time in a hot and dry weather, they would
like the snow and the rain just like me. I really can’t bear the hot weather.
SEASONAL
Spring is Here!
Mariam A. | Level 7 | Lesley H’s Student
Behold, my friends, the spring has come;
the earth has gladly received the embrace
of the sun and we shall soon see the results
of their love! (Sitting Bull)
So spring is here. When winter begins to
lift its snowy blanket, the world bursts into
a delightful collection of colours. Fresh
buds bloom, animals awaken and the
earth seems to come to life again. Farmers
and gardeners plant their seeds and the
temperature slowly rises depending upon
the location. It is a mark of a new start,
new beginning and just thinking about this
season brings happiness and joy.
In Canada and the northern hemisphere, the first day of the spring season is the day of the year when the
sun crosses the celestial equator moving northward. This day is known as the Vernal Equinox or Spring
Equinox, which occurs around March 21st.
In spring, the temperature becomes warmer resulting in the ground thawing and growing softer and
more capable of being planted. Spring is also marked by increasing rainfalls which help seeds to take root
in the ground.
Animals that spent winter in hibernation come out and those that travel to warmer regions return. Also,
many animals give birth in this season.
Spring is a time of joy and celebration. Ontario bursts into a delightful collection of maple syrup, blossoms
and birding festivals that represent the coming of spring. There are maple syrup festivals held in different
parks and conservation areas. Different flowers bloom in March which dazzle the senses at the annual
lilac festival at the Royal Botanical Gardens in Burlington. Then there is The Canadian Tulip Festival in
Ottawa, where millions of tulips bloom. It’s the season of celebration as Robert Williams said,
Spring is nature’s way of saying,”let’s party!”
SEASONAL
Mother’s Day
Nadiya Z. | Level 4 | Jessica W’s Student
The most important person in the world,
of course, is mom. Why? Because a mother
is always gentle with her child, and always
attentive. Who knows how much pain
and love can fit in a mother’s heart! After
all, when a child is sick, a mother always
sympathizes and treats her child, and is even
sick with her child. When children grow up,
their mothers share all the pain of their
adult lives with them.
Our mothers accompany us throughout our
lives. And even on the verge of death, they
are not worried about themselves; they are
worried about their children. The power of
mother’s love overcomes at any distance,
and wherever we are, their concern, and
their prayers preserve us from life’s adversity.
In any language, the word mom is beautiful.
Everyone has his own or her own mother and she is the best. To me, my mom is the ideal of goodness,
honesty, love and humanity. Do you remember when you last saw your mother without a job to do? I
can’t. She didn’t know rest; her hands were always finding a job to do. A mother’s hands do not stop for
a moment, they are constantly at work, and this reminds me somewhat of a religious rite. A mother’s
hands always smell of something, something like newly ironed clothes, or wheat flour and hot bread, or
a dill and parsley and cucumber, apple, pear and honey.
Eyes… A mother’s eyes are always full of a bright glow like a visible expression of her soul. It looks very
kind. A mother can forgive everything, even when the law and people cannot. This is also a great power
of maternal love. And knowing this, we should always pay so much attention to our mothers. Because
only a mother will love us always and everywhere, in any circumstance. Only a mother can see her baby
as he or she should and could be. And we children should never forget our mothers. Moms deserve our
continued attention and understanding, not just a card and flowers on holidays, but every day of the
year. We have to care about our parents, because if they will go, who will care about us?
SEASONAL
Our Nice Blue Planet
Khadijeh Z. | Level 7 | Jessica W’s Student
During the last decade, we have heard about global
warming and saving the environment over and
over. Most of us have been waiting for others to do
something. Have you ever asked yourself, “How can I
help the environment?” There are many simple ways
to do that.
The environment and Earth have been polluted by
humans in various ways for many years. We could
do some low-cost and easy things to protect our
environment every day and avoid a lot of timeconsuming and unnecessary significant clean-up in
the future. We must use water and energy in the
correct way. This earth is not just for us; animals have
right to live. We are not passengers; we are all crew
on this planet.
There are many ways that we can help the environment. For example, we can use less water in the
kitchen and bath, and use less electricity and plastic. We must cut down on fossil fuel and change to
renewable energy. Also, we should start carpooling and avoid using cars for anything but necessary trips.
And, we should teach to our kids to respect other creatures such as animals and keep their home land
safe. Remember to plant trees. They are good for the air and improve the value of your property. please
visit: www.50waystohelp.com
Physiologically, humans respond to sudden events, but the effects of our changing climate and global
warming can’t be seen every day. Most of us know how we can protect our environment, but we usually
don’t care for it. The Earth is not well now. Every day, more animals are endangered. The land, sea and
oceans are full of accumulated garbage.
Earth Day is an annual event, celebrated on April 22, on which events are held worldwide to demonstrate
support for environmental protection. It was first celebrated in 1970. It is celebrated in more than 192
countries each year. Let’s pay attention today, more than ever before.
In summary, we can reduce, reuse, and recycle to protect our mother nature more. Each parent wishes
the best for their children. We must preserve our Earth, where is our home is because, among a billion
billion planets in the galaxy, we have just one nice blue planet.
SEASONAL
My Lovely Violet
Gladis H. | Level 5 | Sarah H’s Student
She was a beautiful, three-year-old girl. She was always wellknown for her ability to listen. She was sensitive and very curious
and she was always asking questions. She and her grandfather
went for a daily walk around the small hill. They saw how the
rabbits were hiding in their paths, they enjoyed feeding the
birds, and they enjoyed the landscape too.
“Why is the moon so high Grandpa?’’ the girl asked one day.
Sitting on the nearest stone, her grandfather began to tell her
that the moon came from the earth and it ascended high, high
above us to give us light at night, so we can see the stars shine
bright.
On other occasions, the girl wondered about the mountains, the stars and the flowers and for all these
questions, her grandfather had a beautiful story that made her laugh and jump for joy. She wanted to
tell her friends all that her grandfather had taught her.
After a cold morning, the little girl went with her grandfather on their daily walk. Her grandfather walked
slowly, as his health was becoming more delicate. Even though he felt ill, he didn’t want to disappoint
his young granddaughter
“Why are the stones so hard?” she asked her grandfather, “Where did the stones come from?”
With his usual kindness, he answered all of these questions with infinite patience, again and again. After
a moment of silence she asked, “Grandpa what is the Spring?”
“When I see you,” he responded. “I see the colour of Roses reflected on your cheeks, red Carnations in
your coloured lips, and scattered Marigolds in your blonde hair. I can also see white Lilies on your skin
and beautiful Forget-me-nots in the blue of your eyes. You are like nature, when the wind makes your
hair fly around, you are my lovely Violet. You are the Spring, because when you laugh the clouds move
away, the Sun appears and everything blooms!”
“Grandpa,” replied the girl giving her grandfather a big hug, “If I am the spring…are you the Autumn?”
They laughed and went home.
SEASONAL
What I Like About Spring
Hyeona J. | Level 3 | James T’s Student
I am waiting for spring because it is warm and a lot
of flowers and birds come back. People are going
out in spring. They are sitting on the grass, reading
books, walking on the trail and eating lunch. They
play games in the park. People’s clothes are light and
have beautiful colours in spring. They enjoy having
sunny weather. Animals hibernate in winter and they
are awake and outside in spring. Spring is lovely.
Settlement
SETTLEMENT
Speaking at The Early Years Centre
Ganna B. | Level 4 | Morley M’s Student
My English is not very good and speaking is my
biggest problem. I asked my teacher what I
should to improve my speaking and he said I must
speak to other people. The difficulty speaking
to other people is that I have an infant child to
take care of and I can’t communicate much with
other people. My teacher suggested I attend an
Ontario Early Years Centre. The Centre offers a
very interesting program for mothers, caregivers
and their children. My son and I visited the
Centre and met with the teacher. My son played
with other kids. There were many toys, books
and other things for children to play with at this
centre. At 11 o’clock, the children had lunch and
then sang songs, read books and drew pictures. My son was happy because he met new friends. And as
for me, I was talking with other moms and practicing my English.
Searching A New Home in Canada
Botros W. | Level 6 | Morley M’s Student
I have learned through my recent experience searching
for a new home is not an easy. I have been searching for
the last three weeks and each day becoming more difficult
but interesting. Despite the stress, I learn new things and
gain more experience every day. Sometimes I ask friends
to join me searching. I pay close attention to features they
look at in this house and to the questions they ask the real
estate agent. For example, some of the more important
features to check are age of the house, kind of flooring,
number of parking spots and whether the backyard is
fenced for the security of my children. Of course, the
floor plan and whether the basement is finished are very
important considerations. I now also have experience
working with mortgage brokers. I know how they think
and evaluate clients’ employment and financial situation
before arranging financing.
SETTLEMENT
Living in Waterloo
Lydia W. | Level 7 | Jonathan B’s Student
After being stuck with a dilemma, to live in Toronto or move to
Waterloo, my whole family finally decided to move to Waterloo
and live together since last July. That’s a big decision for us,
even though we just emigrated from China to Canada 3 years
ago.
Living in a small town has lots of advantages. The housing in
Waterloo is much cheaper than Toronto. I sold my townhouse
in North York and at the same time I bought a detached house
in Waterloo. My new house is much bigger and newer than my
previous house, and it’s only a little bit more expensive. I enjoy
the family life with my husband and my daughter very much. I
remember a slogan of a Chinese company- “Happiness is that
a whole family has a meal together”, so now I have a happy life
in Waterloo with my family.
The other benefits to living in a small town are the traffic and
insurance. When I lived in Toronto, I spent more than two
hours on commuting every day. I can’t forget all those days I
was stuck in the heavy traffic on highway 401 when returning
home from office. I never had any issue with traffic in Waterloo
in the past four months. The insurance for my car is also cheaper than in Toronto.
As compensation for family reunion, I lost my job in Mississauga because I can’t commute to Mississauga from
Waterloo every day. I quit my job in August. I’m looking for another job in the Kitchener-Waterloo area. There are
not so many job opportunities as in Toronto, and furthermore, I have not yet developed a network of friends in
Waterloo. I feel it’s very hard for me to find a new job.
I know very few people in Waterloo, sometimes I feel lonely. I miss my friends and neighbors in Toronto very
much. Every few weeks, I drive back to Toronto, to meet with friends, shop in Chinese superstores, and taste some
delicious food in some Chinese restaurants. I still have lots of fun in Toronto.
It’s hard to start a new life in a new place, but I’m here now, the only thing I can do is to adjust myself to this new
life. Anyway, tomorrow is a good day.
SETTLEMENT
My New Life, From China to Canada
Yan S. | Level 6 | Sarah H’s Student
Everyone has a dream. When I was young, just like many other
people who lived in Shanghai, my dreams were to find a good
job and make more money. I did have a good job and not a bad
income but I always thought that this is not my dream. Several
years later, after my daughter came into my life, my dreams
completely changed. Both my husband and I wanted to give
a better life to our daughter. One day one of our best friends
told us that the children in Canada are the happiest. Canada
has a good education system and a good welfare system for
the children. After much cogitation, we decided to immigrate
to Canada. We gave up all the things in Shanghai and chose to
come to a new country and welcome a new lifestyle for our
future. This has been a big challenge for us.
In the fall of 2012, our family came to Canada. The moment after we got out of the airport, everything
was new for us. There were wide roads, green trees, colourful flowers, nice people, and all kinds of food.
All of these new things made us feel our decision was perfectly correct. Immigrating to Canada was a
great decision.
At the beginning, we spent several months travelling all over Canada to find a good place to live. We
went to Vancouver, Toronto, Montreal and other cities. Finally, we chose Toronto. Luckily enough, my
husband found a job in Barrie not far away from Toronto. We came to Barrie for several months and we
decided to buy a house and settle in Barrie for our new home. Our daughter got into a French Immersion
school in grade one. Now she learns French in class. At break time and after school she can talk with
her classmates in English, and she talks with us in Mandarin at home. My daughter told me she likes her
school. She said that all the teachers and classmates are very nice and friendly to her. She enjoys her
new school life very much. It is hard to image that my daughter can speak three languages now. I think
it is a big fortune for her future. I was also lucky enough to get a part time job in a restaurant and a good
chance to learn English at home in LINC Home Study. Every day in the morning I send my daughter to
school and in the afternoon I pick up her from school. Due to my home study and part time job, I have
more time to do the housework and share my daughter’s school life. I am enjoying the lifestyle in Canada
very much. I hope after several years, my daughter can go school by herself, and that I can find a job that
I really like. That will be great.
I think the essence of life is to have a happy family. We don’t need a lot of money. We hope everyone
in our family will enjoy his or her life. All of my family members like our new life in Canada. This is the
biggest dream for my whole life. I am quite definite all of my dreams will come true in our near future.
Skills
SKILLS
My Job
Rasha S. | Level 4 | Carla M’s Student
I am not working outside the home right now, but
I know the first job for me is to be a mom.
I believe my job is very important, it’s not easy,
and it has a lot of challenges. To be a good mom
you need a strong body, open mind, patience, and
big heart. You should have the ability to give more
without getting or asking for a reward.
When you choose to be a mom, your life changes.
A baby gives you many different experiences.
I have four kids, and I work hard to take care of
them. Right now I am studying English, to be a
good mom to help my kids to get a good education,
and I try to work on myself for the future. I know when my kids grow up, I will have a lot of time to do
what I want. I hope by that time I will be finished studying to start work. I want to be a graphic designer,
and step by step I will achieve my dream. Until that time, I will give all my energy to my kids to help them
to have the best life.
SKILLS
How I Found My Job
Antoinette W. | Level 5 | Deborah K’s Student
When I first arrived in Canada, I tried to find
a job just as a casual career, for example at
Tim Hortons. It would be just as a beginning
job. After that I asked some friends to help
find a job for me. One friend, told me that
she knew a doctor who could help me.
So, after that I made an appointment to
meet this doctor. I explained to this doctor
about my experience in Egypt. She told me
that I could help with taking blood and also
help with patients or with the reception and
answering the phones and filing the reports.
So, I helped her and worked as a volunteer
with her for two or three months.
After that I heard about a certificate for
blood sampling. I told my doctor and she said she would pay for me to get this. I went to college and got
my certificate. So, after that she started to pay me.
I also started looking for other jobs in other clinics because the first doctor was changing her clinic. So, I
found a new clinic to work at. They gave me more hours because I worked in blood work and reception.
Here I work 3 hours a day. So I get more hours and more responsibility.
After that the new doctor told me she wanted me to help with giving flu shots. So, I went to college again
and got my inter muscular certificate and now I’m able to give flu shots.
I feel good with my job. I think I do a good job, but sometimes when I am very busy I do make mistakes,
for example when I have to do many things at the same time. I am feeling very lucky though because I
know many people here who have been here for seven or eight years and they still haven’t found a job.
I really thank God.
For the future I haven’t completely decided. I’d like to study as a nurse or a medical lab technician. For
the moment I think everything is good for me. Canada is a good and safe country and I’m very thankful.
SKILLS
Midwifery in Canada and in Iran
Kamelia G-Z. | Level 7 | Marilyn K’s Student
In the English language “midwife” means “with –woman”. A
professional health care worker who supports pregnant women
is called midwife. The midwife assists a lady not only during a
pregnancy (prenatal), but also after the baby is born (postnatal).
The question is how to become a midwife? Is this an easy job? In
the next paragraph I will clarify this subject in Iran and Canada.
Being a midwife is not an easy job in Iran. After graduating from
high school, it is necessary to participate in an entrance exam for
the university in order to continue your education. You should
get higher marks to compete with thousands of competitors for
entering into the midwifery school. Subsequently, passing some
140 units including practical (clinical rotation) and theoretical
over a 4 year period, and finally graduating as a bachelor of
midwifery. Then, at last, you are allowed to work independently as a midwife. Midwives are permitted to work
in a hospital and can also have a private office; however, visiting a pregnant woman in her house is not a routine
in Iran. Further, education at a PhD level is also an option for midwives and one of the requirements is taking part
in another entrance exam and also an English Language proficiency test. After I got my certification as a midwife,
I worked in a private office and infertility institute for several years before my immigration to Canada and working
in those places was really a great experience. So in order to succeed in your attempt to be a midwife you need to
study hard.
On the other hand, in Canada university admission relies on your performance in high school and there is no
entrance exam. Also, the midwifery[i] student could be on call during 24 hours a day when they are in their
clinical rotation which is different from Iran, in which they have night duty and they stay in the hospital for the
whole night. Graduate education is available for midwifery at a PhD level however, the university must accept the
midwife for PhD based on their criteria.
In conclusion, I always liked being a midwife and I achieved my goal. However, if I want to be a registered midwife
in Canada, I have to pass some exams, in addition to having proof of proficiency in English. After admission in a
university I have to pass one year course to update my midwifery knowledge. As a matter of fact it is a challenging
task for me that demands lots of time and effort and if it happens to me I’ll be in seventh heaven.
.
________________________________________
[i] http://www.ryerson university
SKILLS
Importance of Computers in our Life
Gamini H. | Level 5 | Paramjit B’s Student
Computer has become the most revolutionary, valuable and
popular equipment in the modern world and also internet
has brought the whole world into our hands. Wherever we
go, computers are being used for almost everything. All
students are enforced to learn computers because they will
not be able to deal with future world without computer
knowledge.
Today the world technology is changing very fast. Especially,
the computer technology is used to make our life easy. If we
just turn back to the past, we have experienced lots of things
that wasted our time like writing letters and messages, but
today this subject has become very simple with computers. I believe, everyone sends letters for either
official or personal purpose. To exchange documents online, we need to have computer skills. If not, it
will take long time to send a letter and have a reply. Email is more popular because it is fast, reliable and
also cheap.
Computer knowledge is getting so advanced. There is going to be a day where everyone must learn
computer skills if they want to work somewhere. Even in a small business computer technology is being
used for their daily operations. It is hard to find any place away from computers. For example, if you go to
a small coffee shop your order would be taken by a computer and payment would be through a machine,
with a credit or debit card. It’s very clear, without computer knowledge you are not able to earn or to
get service in society.
We are living in a fast paced society. There are many complicated things in our minds. Even though we
are working or studying our brain needs relaxation. There are lots of entertaining features on computer.
Music, movies, games and reading are very interesting features on the computer. Without computer
literacy nobody would enjoy these kinds of easy, cheap and fantastic features in the modern world.
It is a new trend to buy things online now, because it saves lots of time and money. Today mostly in
banking, ticketing, mailing or any other work, we use computers. As computer has become a significant
and valuable part of our lives, it is necessary to know more about it. This is why computer education is
becoming a vital factor in the modern world.
Finally, it is very clear in the future that, technology is not going back, it is developing and changing every
day. The computer knowledge is not only helpful in our personal and professional life; it has become part
of our life. Everyone should obtain computer literacy and make their lives comfortable with the existing
and upcoming technology.
SKILLS
Passion For Nursing
Sandeep B. | Level 5 | Rima B’s Student
Nursing is a noble profession, and it is beyond the boundaries of
description. It cannot be bound in words. It is my passion. Florence
Nightingale, also known as “The Lady with the Lamp”, laid the
foundation stone of the nursing profession. She belonged to the
nobility, but left that behind to care for the wounded soldiers in the
Crimean War, 1853-56. Her family opposed her decision and tried
to persuade her in many ways but could not resist her from following
her passion. She provided voluntary services in the Crimean War. At
the end of the war, she opened her own school of nursing in London,
England, and in this way nursing profession came into existence.
I am in the nursing profession and have completed my nursing education in India. I got influenced
by the people in nursing and hence, intended to choose it as my career. Very soon, I found myself in
a hospital. I remember my first interaction with a 57 year old patient, who suffered from a serious
respiratory ailment. Within a blink of an eye, her condition deteriorated and she was surrounded by
medical staff. For the first time, I encountered such a horrible and unbearable experience. I decided
to give up, but my teacher motivated me to continue. It took a couple of days to fit in into the new
environment. Eventually, I realized the importance of being a nurse. Once I cared for a severely injured
patient during her hospital stay. I cared for her daily and got strict instructions to keep a close eye on
her condition. She made a marked improvement in her health. After she got discharged, she was almost
in tears and expressed her gratitude to hospital staff. She thanked me personally for looking after her. I
felt immensely satisfied and understood the significance of psychological support. This profession offers
a wide range of opportunities to experience diverse phases of life. At one moment, I was heart broken
to see the bereaved family of a deceased person, and in the next moment, I was delighted to see the joy
of new parents.
I loved my work as a nurse in India, and I am looking forward to continuing with my career in Canada. I
have passed the nursing registration examination, and am preparing for the IELTS to obtain the licensure.
I hope soon I will become a nurse in this new country, and my dream of working as a licensed nurse in
Canada will come true.
SKILLS
Volunteering in Canada
Yurong W. | Level 5 | James T’s Student
Before I immigrated to Canada, I’d almost never
done any kind of volunteering.
One of my hometown heroes is called Feng Lei
who is renowned for his generous contribution
to the Communist Party and to the poor without
being paid. He died accidently ( hit his temple
on a post) when he was only 22 years old. To
commemorate him, Chair leader Mao Zedong
advocated that all the public learn from him
and from that time on, every year on Mar.5th is
a day celebrating the volunteering spirit. Those
things happened prior to my birth, but this story
is passed down from generation to generation.
He was my absolute hero until an accidental
website reading made me doubt that story’s
authenticity. He was a star by the Communist Party spinning a yarn. Different countries have different politics.
In Canada one day, by chance, I received a man’s phone call who was calling on behalf of the Heart & Stroke
Foundation. He asked me whether I would like to volunteer to canvass for them this February (named heart
month)? At first, I did not feel confident about my oral English skills. Did I need to make a profound statement to
the public like running a campaign? How could I respond if they started to ask me questions? But he soothed me
and said it was simple; the only word I was supposed to mention was “donate”. I finally offered to do it. I think it
was a real way I could get to know Canadians better. Meanwhile, I am making a difference.
As they supplied instruction, I prepared carefully including memorizing some canvassing sentences again and again
and then stopped by my neighbour’s. It was around 6 o’clock p.m. and chilly outside. As usual, my neighbour
was at home fixing dinner. The first impression I got from my neighbour was that they were so kind and friendly.
After my introduction, they contributed generously, totally exceeding my expectations. It was so inspiring! What
a strong and compassionate community! ....For me volunteering is a labour of love.
GLOSSARY
Here is some vocabulary from this month’s newsletter. Do you know what the words mean?
Peripheral (pg.11):
in the outer area of a place
Windfall (pg.30)
an amount of money that you get unexpectedly
Unbidden (pg.11):
without being asked for, expected, or invited
Outset (pg.30)
at or from the beginning of an event or process
Stupendous (pg.12):
surprisingly large or impressive
Interconnectedness (pg.34)
To be connected with each other
Prestigious (pg.13):
admired as one of the best and most important
Continuous (pg.34)
continuing to happen or exist without stopping
Vast (pg.20):
extremely large
Knead (pg.41)
to press a mixture of flour and water many times with
your hands
Perseverance (pg.21)
determination to keep trying to achieve something
in spite of difficulties
Fritter (pg.43)
to waste time, money, or effort on something small or
unimportant
Bonfire (pg.25)
a large outdoor fire, either for burning waste or for
a party
Hibernation (pg.45)
to sleep for the whole winter
Devoid (pg.29)
to be completely lacking in something
Cogitation (pg.53)
to think carefully and seriously about something
Frenzy (pg.30)
a state of great anxiety or excitement, in which you
cannot control your behaviour
Vital (pg.58)
extremely important and necessary for something to succeed or exist
Embark (pg.30)
to start something, especially something new, difficult, or exciting
CONTACT US
Comments
We’d like to hear from you. Send us your feedback, thoughts, comments and suggestions.
E-mail: help@linchomestudy.ca
LINC Home Study Forum
You can find more student writing on the LINC Home Study Forum or explore the many other
topics available.
Website: http://www.linchomestudy.ca/online/forum/
Submissions
The deadline for the Summer 2014 issue is June 6th.
Note:
• Writing should not exceed 500 words.
• If submitting your biography, do not include information about your birthday or age.
• To avoid copyright infringement, only personal photographs will be considered for publication.
A special thank you to all the students who have contributed to this publication and the forum.
Fall 2013 | NEWSLINC | 63

A QUARTERLY PUBLICATION OF LINC HOME STUDY | SPRING

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