K S LO ENGLISH

In the past, Hong Kong didn’t offer many opportunities for learning. Times have changed, as well as government policy, so now every child has the opportunity to learn in a school. Nowadays, people’s education levels are increasing. Despite this, most people have already forgotten those so-called ‘old values’, and students have not been behaving too well. In my opinion, a student’s attitude should encompass the qualities mentioned below.

The Five Ways of Life, proposed by Mr. Cai Yuanpei, though initially intended as a political ideology for educating students, has become the basis of modern education.

I think the most important skill in the Five Ways of Life is social skills, as students take responsibility in different posts. The school is a small community that requires all students to participate in various roles because unilateral contributions from adults are unrealistic and students cannot learn anything from them. Taking responsibility allows students to cooperate, help, and respect others, thus helping the community.

Another element in the Five Ways of Life that I think is also essential is morals. Students nowadays have forgotten old values. Morals are about shaping human thoughts regarding their sense of belonging to family, community, and even country. It is the backbone of the Five Ways of Life and takes place in a psychological environment.

In conclusion, these are my thoughts about the attitude that a student should hold. I hope you, who have finished reading the article, will bear in mind whether you are in a prestigious school or not. Just remember to respect others, and everything will be just fine.

If I could choose a new animal for the Chinese zodiac, it would be a cat. Here is my personal insight into why the cat should be an extraordinary contender on the zodiac chart. Don’t let these lovable little furballs fool you; they are naturally agile, powerful, and flexible, with incredible night vision and an acute sense of smell and hearing.

According to traditional Chinese myth, the cat was initially one of the zodiacs on the lunar calendar, but the cunning rat took its place instead. Unfortunately, the poor cat never made it to the finish line to become one of the most dominant zodiacs because of the rat’s betrayal. The story might sound unbelievable, but the cat’s nine lives couldn’t even save it from the great loss of grabbing a spot on the lunar calendar. Isn’t that ironic?

People with the cat Chinese zodiac might possess some unique personality traits, such as carefulness, playfulness, independence, and protectiveness.

A cat person being careful is not a weakness but helps avoid any unfortunate mishaps. A feline can sense danger so it knows when to back off when encountering a disastrous situation, like a showdown with its enemies. For a cat, its arch-enemy may be a wild dog or a nasty skunk. For people, it is important to be careful in dealing with any unwanted confrontations, like arguing with their superiors.

Besides that, a cat has a playful side. It can spend time rolling around with a ball of yarn, showing its independence, unlike a dog that requires constant human attention. Therefore, people with playful and independent personalities do not often require human interaction yet can still enjoy their personal space.

Protectiveness is another significant trait noticed in cats. They are essentially solitary and territorial species that need a safe and protective environment to survive. A cat will show signs of aggression by hissing, blocking, and staring to control its territory. Similarly, humans will do the same to protect their family members and close friends.

Cats would definitely be great friends with dogs. A study suggests that cat and dog siblings can live happily together and even become best buddies. Many pet owners adopt both cats and dogs because they believe that cats can coexist with dogs if they are given time to comfortably get to know each other, especially when they are raised together at an early stage.

Undoubtedly, I believe that a cat is an ideal choice to be the new animal for the Chinese zodiac because of its unique personality traits. It is about time for a change and to debut the cat as the newest member of the Chinese zodiac chart.

S3 Champion, Chinese Culture Week 2023-24 English Writing Competition

The Chinese zodiac is rich with symbolism and animal representations that hold cultural significance. If I could choose another animal to be added, I would choose the giraffe. Here’s why.

First of all, the giraffe is renowned for its elegance and peaceful nature. Adding the giraffe would symbolize these qualities, emphasizing the importance of peace and elegance.

Secondly, the giraffe’s remarkable height makes it stand out among other animals. Adding the giraffe to the Chinese zodiac would highlight the importance of aiming high and aspiring to greatness.

Lastly, the giraffe resembles the Chinese mythical creature Qilin, which symbolizes benevolence and fortune. By including the giraffe, whose appearance shares similarities with the Fortune Beast, we would draw a connection to the mythical Qilin, symbolizing similar virtues.

People with the zodiac sign of the giraffe might have a calm and gentle nature, staying peaceful in their interactions. They would be composed and patient, handling challenges and conflicts with grace and serenity. Similar to the giraffe’s elegance, those with this zodiac sign might possess a refined and sophisticated demeanor, displaying poise and grace in their actions and speech. Moreover, people with the giraffe zodiac sign would be ambitious and aspirational, always striving for personal growth and aiming high in their lives. They would be benevolent and caring, treating others kindly and with integrity, just like the mythical Qilin.

The giraffe has unique qualities and characteristics and might foster interesting relationships with other zodiac animals. For example, it might become companions with the sheep and the rabbit, who also represent peace and harmony. It might also start adventurous and fun relationships with the horse, the dog, and the monkey due to its benevolence and friendliness.

In conclusion, I would choose the giraffe as a new zodiac animal because I think it would fit in perfectly due to its characteristics.

S3 First Runner-up, Chinese Culture Week 2023-24 English Writing Competition

If I could choose a new zodiac animal for the Chinese zodiac, I would choose the mythical creature known as the Phoenix. The Phoenix is a legendary bird often associated with rebirth, renewal, and immortality in various cultures around the world. It represents transformation and the ability to rise from the ashes.

There are two reasons why I picked the Phoenix.

First, in many mythologies, the Phoenix represents virtues such as strength, grace, resilience, and beauty. These qualities would bring positive energy and inspire individuals born under the Phoenix sign to strive for personal growth and success.

Second, the Phoenix holds great cultural significance in various Asian cultures, including Chinese, Japanese, and Korean. Incorporating it into the Chinese zodiac would honor this cultural heritage and provide a meaningful connection for individuals with these backgrounds.

People with this zodiac animal might often be associated with beauty and grace, suggesting that individuals with the Phoenix may possess a creative and imaginative nature. They may have a unique perspective and a talent for artistic expression. They might think outside the box and have a penchant for innovative ideas.

I think that the Dragon would be friends with the Phoenix because both of them are mythical creatures, representing power and transformation. Their shared symbolism and larger-than-life personalities might create a strong connection. They could inspire and challenge each other, forming a dynamic friendship based on mutual respect.

S1 Champion, Chinese Culture Week 2023-24 English Writing Competition

The Chinese zodiac is a long-standing symbol of Chinese folk culture, with each animal representing different meanings and personalities. If I could choose a new animal for the Chinese zodiac, I would choose the turtle. The turtle is one of the Four Intelligent Beasts from Chinese mythology. Turtles live a long life, and they symbolize longevity. We also gain a deeper understanding of the world as we live longer. Therefore, the turtle’s symbolism of longevity implies a sophisticated worldview.

In the zodiac of the turtle, the personalities of people are mature and steady, as turtles have long lives and are wise to the ways of life. People with this zodiac sign also have strong adaptability, just as turtles do. Turtles can live in both water and on land. This ability means that people born under this zodiac sign do not get sick easily when traveling, as they can adapt to the climate and jet lag. Another characteristic of turtles is that they are solitary animals. Therefore, people with this zodiac sign may be more independent and likely to have a higher ability when handling tasks on their own rather than cooperating with others.

If the turtle joined the family of the Chinese zodiac, I think it would take time to warm up to the 12 zodiacs, as it is reserved. However, fortunately, the dragon is one of the Four Intelligent Beasts from Chinese mythology, so the dragon probably would be the first friend of the turtle in this family. After that, under the dragon’s leadership, the turtle would make friends with the other animals agreeably. Most turtles are docile and glad to meet new friends!

In conclusion, the turtle can represent longevity and wisdom. It is also a character from Chinese mythology. Therefore, I think the turtle is suitable to be one of the zodiac animals.

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

The Chinese zodiac consists of 12 different animals, each representing various personalities and characteristics of a person. However, I am sure that people exhibit more than just 12 different personalities. Therefore, today I’m going to choose a new animal for the Chinese zodiac —— a frog!

I would pick the frog as a new animal for the Chinese zodiac because the frog has been known as a symbol of prosperity in ancient Chinese culture. So, people with the frog as their Chinese zodiac animal might be wealthy!

In nature, the color of frog skin is green. This camouflage makes it harder for them to be seen when they are on a green plant. So, people with the frog as their Chinese zodiac animal are clever; they can protect themselves in emergency situations! Also, frogs are known to be good at leaping and swimming, suggesting that you might be an outgoing person! And, since frogs don’t live in groups, they might sometimes feel lonely.

I think that people with the frog as their Chinese zodiac animal would hate snakes since snakes prey on frogs. They would be friends with goats and rabbits because they share similar personalities.

In conclusion, people with the frog as their Chinese zodiac animal might be clever, outgoing, and somewhat lonely. They dislike snakes and are friendly with goats, tigers, and rabbits.

S1 Second Runner-up, Chinese Culture Week 2023-24 English Writing Competition

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

When you step foot into a Chinese restaurant, what catches your eye? Yes, a golden dragon and a phoenix on a red wall. In China, the dragon and phoenix are the representations of auspiciousness and harmony. The dragon symbolizes strength and passion, while the phoenix represents kindness and tenderness. Together, they balance Yin and Yang, which is an essential concept in Chinese culture. Therefore, I believe adding the phoenix to the Chinese zodiac would be a perfect fit.

The phoenix is known for its ability to revive every 500 years. When it is about to die, it sets itself ablaze and obtains a new life with the power of the sun. This reminds me of a value—the never-give-up spirit. People with phoenix traits might have strong determination and focus on doing something. Whenever they face difficulties, they would be able to accept defeat and learn from mistakes. Then, they would start again from where they failed and work even harder until success. In my opinion, people with phoenix traits would also be wise and elegant. They would usually provide support for others, or be a listener, just like how a phoenix heals itself and others.

Obviously, the phoenix would be a great companion to the dragon. It is incomplete if either one of them is missing, as both help maintain the balance of Yin and Yang. The dragon, adventurous and brave, helps the phoenix overcome troubles. Meanwhile, the kind and gentle phoenix could support the dragon from behind. If the phoenix were added, the dragon would never be so lonely since it would not be the only animal that could fly in the sky!

S3 Second Runner-up, Chinese Culture Week 2023-24 English Writing Competition

Chinese literature has always held a special place in my heart. Ever since I was young, I have found great joy in exploring the rich repertoire of classical and contemporary works produced by our culture. I have fond childhood memories of being transported to the romantic world of the Tang dynasty. Delving into the aesthetic treasures, I resonate with the profound insights found in the literature.

During Chinese lessons, I am enchanted by Confucianism and Taoism. They have deeply shaped my values and outlook. When Miss Tong taught us about Mencius, an epiphany came to my mind: everyone is born good inherently, but the environment can determine your personality. Meanwhile, Confucius’ stress on virtues like generosity, righteousness, and harmony has guided me to unearth the unknown beneath people’s indifferent personae.

Exploring Dao De Jing and Zhuangzi, I am intrigued by the wisdom in the mystical Taoist tradition. I absolutely love how metaphorical language is used to promote living in harmony with the natural flow of things, rather than attempting to control it. Amidst the words, I can see how Zhuang Zhou appreciates life’s subtle beauty in simplicity. Classical Chinese is, however, relatively hard to understand for modern people, but one can still be inspired by the famous Taoist maxim, “He who knows does not speak; he who speaks does not know.” If you want to dig deeper regarding life’s meaning, learn more about Taoism!

China’s rich literary heritage includes texts, poems, novels, and so on. In conclusion, I am proud of the Chinese literary works of art. Authors like Li Bai and Su Shi, works like Dream of the Red Chamber and Analects of Confucius always blow my mind. It’s hypnotizing to read Chinese literature.

S4 Second Runner-up, Chinese Culture Week 2023-24 English Writing Competition

Chinese culture has a very long history, with nearly 4000 years. Chinese culture has experienced the evolution and development of many dynasties and has accumulated rich cultural connotations and brilliant cultural achievements.

Let’s talk about the festivals of Chinese culture. The Lunar New Year is also known as the Spring Festival. This isn’t our ordinary New Year’s bash. It’s a grand celebration that lasts for 15 glorious days. We will witness a burst of red lanterns and hear the thunderous crackling of firecrackers as people strive to chase away evil spirits and usher in good luck for the coming year. Families gather for lavish feasts, exchange red packets filled with money, and pay respect to ancestors. The lion and dragon dances take center stage with vibrant colors.

The Dragon Boat Festival is also an exhilarating event that commemorates the legendary poet Qu Yuan. There will be furious paddling, the rhythmic beating of drums, and the roar of the crowd. It’s all about the dragon boat races. Teams compete fiercely to row these boats, channeling the spirit of the mythical dragon. The air is electric with excitement as spectators cheer on their favorite teams.

We also have a rich cuisine culture. China has a rich and diverse traditional cuisine, and each region has its own unique cooking style and specialties. Peking duck is a specialty of Beijing, famous for its crispy skin and tender meat. It is usually served with pancakes, green onions, cucumbers, and sweet noodle sauce.

Shanghai Xiao Long Bao is a specialty of Shanghai, which are small dumplings filled with fresh meat and soup. They are usually steamed in bamboo cages, and you have to be careful not to burn your mouth when eating them.

Sichuan Spicy Hot Pot is a specialty of the Sichuan region, famous for the unique flavor of chili peppers and Sichuan peppercorns. It is a soup-based hot pot in which various meats, vegetables, tofu, and other ingredients can be cooked.

The Guangdong region is famous for its exquisite dim sum, including shrimp dumplings, siomai, glutinous rice chicken, and more. These snacks are usually eaten with morning or afternoon tea.

It can be seen that Chinese culture has distinctive characteristics in various aspects, which is a culture we can be proud of.

S5 Second Runner-up, Chinese Culture Week 2023-24 English Writing Competition