K S LO ENGLISH

As we know, the twelve Chinese zodiac animals have been the same for millennia. It’s time to make a change; adding a new animal would do the trick! I think the jaguar would make a great zodiac—here’s why.

First and foremost, jaguars are excellent swimmers; they can swim at eighty kilometers per hour, even faster than the swimming speed of a tiger. Hence, the jaguar would probably take first place if the order of the Chinese zodiac were determined by the winners of a swimming competition. Secondly, jaguars are solitary animals, so if the rat asked the jaguar to help, the jaguar wouldn’t agree. Furthermore, Chinese culture is always about good luck; jaguars are strong and powerful animals; they can represent health.

If the jaguar were an actual zodiac sign, I think people with the jaguar as their zodiac would be independent and able to take good care of themselves. Nonetheless, it may be difficult for them to seek help since they aren’t as sociable as others. Moreover, I think people with the jaguar as their zodiac would be brave to speak up, do things that may seem scary, and, most of all, get out of their comfort zone! Besides, I believe people with the jaguar for their zodiac are determined; just like the jaguar, if they want their prey, they will get it!

Lastly, the jaguar wouldn’t get along with the others as they are independent animals. Therefore, the jaguar would stay at the corner of a room with the tiger because they are both felines.

What about you? Which animal would you choose to add?

S2 First Runner-up, Chinese Culture Week 2023-24 English Writing Competition

Being a student is challenging. Sometimes, we aspire to improve, but not everyone shares this perspective. Some students surrender and neglect their potential because they believe that only the high-achievers need to maintain a good attitude; they feel they don’t need to care. As a student, there are some crucial things I need to bear in mind about attitude—not only at school but also at home and in the way we handle situations. If you aspire to improve, a positive attitude is a must!

First and foremost, self-discipline is essential. It can assist with homework, studying, and punctuality. Setting a timetable can also be helpful. However, it’s merely a tool—the key lies in being self-disciplined. If you don’t have this key, the tool won’t function. Self-discipline means that you can push yourself to perform tasks without others reminding or instructing you, such as waking up early. Furthermore, self-discipline will make you aware that you need to focus on homework and revision instead of spending all day playing video games, especially when you have pending assignments and three tests on Monday. You wouldn’t want that, right?

Secondly, I need to remain humble. How? You might ask. Well, everyone has room for improvement. Therefore, soliciting feedback from others, like your teachers, is the simplest way. The reason is that teachers have more experience, and as students, we’re still in the learning phase. They can provide advice on how to enhance your work or skills. If you are arrogant and unwilling to learn from others, no one will want to teach you due to your negative attitude. Moreover, you won’t be able to progress. I was once arrogant when I asked my parents for feedback on my writing and refused to accept that I wasn’t good enough. I struggled to improve, but my dad told me that I needed to change my approach and attitude when asking for their assistance. Since then, I have learned my lesson and become more humble.

Last but not least, I need to be open-minded. Being open-minded can involve stepping out of your comfort zone. If you’re hesitant like me, this can be challenging. I know it’s difficult, but try not to dismiss opportunities out of hand; give them a try and see if they’re as daunting as you imagine. When teachers encourage you to enter competitions, embrace the opportunities they provide; don’t miss the chance. Back in primary school, my English teacher asked me three times to enter a speech festival. I declined twice out of fear, but on the third instance, I accepted and achieved a fantastic result. Therefore, when teachers encourage you to enter competitions, they believe in your abilities. Even if you don’t win, treat it as a learning experience—you have nothing to lose! Moreover, you should participate in diverse activities beyond standard subjects, even if you don’t enjoy all of them—you might discover a hidden talent. Also, taking an interest in world events by watching the news can help you avoid a dismissive mindset and prevent you from being trapped in your comfort zone.

The late motivational speaker Zig Ziglar once said, “It’s your attitude, not your aptitude, that will determine your altitude.” In conclusion, maintaining self-discipline, humility, and an open mind is the most crucial key to achieving great things, even if your foundation isn’t the strongest among your classmates. Cultivating these attitudes can even aid your future career.