June Content Workshop 2019

Having concluded the 2-day content workshop, I have deep appreciation for my students who came early to help and stayed back to clear up.

The first day, we worked through key information pertaining to our world,  setting the context for our world now. Thereafter, we delved into the exceptional miracle that is Singapore.

After that we went through various topics, clarified key concepts and discussed recent events, exploring the nuances and issues embedded within.

At the end of two days, it is with much delight and contentment that we celebrated, albeit wistfully, the end of this little journey into the quirks that make our world.

As with tradition, we ended the workshop with a cake. A rainbow cake that symbolises the rainbow that peeks out after a dreary journey, giving hope and joy to those who chose to embark on this journey of exploration.

"Knowledge is power. Look at how much you have learnt. Be confident. You can do it!"

Brand new beginnings; same old me

Since 2019 February, we've shifted The Bell from Redhouse to our new office at North Bridge Centre. One of the reasons being that Tai is now growing up, and he probably will want some private space at home... away from his mummy's helicopter parenting 😈😈 #noapologies

The new space feels somewhat different from the Redhouse - things are... neater... and more... organised 😅 Ivan said it was definitely more conducive for studying; in any case, I suppose I can always prettify the place when he's not looking #noapologies

We don't have any photos of the new place yet; been busy with classes and Tai's shooting competitions. Also, we're trying out Ezbuy for the first time, and the shipping is taking ages 😒 Once the place is done, I will definitely post some photos here! In the meantime, here're the posters for the 2019 June GP Content Workshop...

Merry Christmas and (we're all looking forward to a very) Happy New Year!

Merry Christmas and (we're all looking forward to a very) Happy New Year!

Through the years, we have been blessed with unyielding support and trust. We are both thankful and grateful for the parents and students who have journeyed with us. You have been our fuel and drive, motivating us to keep our beliefs and continue our path to help students.

2019 is going to be an exciting year for many reasons... One of which is a secret project we've been working on for the past three years - phase 1 will soon be coming to fruition! Stay tuned for updates! 😊

Nope... I won't be publishing the 2018 GP paper any time soon...

Image from personal collection

Out of professional courtesy, I will not be publishing the 2018 papers any time soon. Many schools are liable to "embargo" this paper for use in 2019. If you're a parent, and would like to find out about the paper, do drop me an email and I'll see how I can best address your queries.

If you're a student, GP IS OVER. GO STUDY YOUR OTHER SUBJECTS.

That said, this year's paper is a doozy. In P1, some of the topics were interesting, to say the least, and I'm over the moon with Q8 because many people have been telling me that this topic will never appear - I mean, there's nothing in the syllabus that dictates what will or will not be tested. As long as the pedagogy is sound, the lesson objectives are aligned and clear, there really isn't anything that we cannot discover and learn in a GP class.

I cringed a little when I saw P2 - my students know it's not my favourite topic 😅 - but having said that, the paper itself is definitely do-able as long as you take a deep breath and read the question properly. The phrasing of the AQ was a little sneaky, but hey, it IS English, and this IS a legit question to pose. Besides, this phrasing makes the overarching topic a little bit more relatable and focussed.

Okay, I've said a lot already... 😁 Over the December holidays, I'll probably be reviewing the materials I have used in 2018, and will be refreshing the content, ready for 2019!

To my dearest students, and everyone else who's taking the A levels: Hang in there, you got this! 😊  (And don't skip your meals!)

To you, with love

Image from personal collection

It is time. 

Your pre-university journey is coming to an end. We are now at the cusp of the home stretch. All that you have done through these years has been for this. At this most critical time, keep strong, and put one foot after the other (or write one word after another).

Remember: You have learned all the skills you needed.

You have completed so many practices. You have gained so much knowledge through your JC journey. And your training, for now, has come to an end. The exam and the rest of your life lies ahead. The skills, knowledge, and confidence are your tools in your kit, at your disposal to help you navigate through this exam, and later in life.

So stay calm and confident as the curtain is about to be raised. The first act is General Paper. The subject we have been training for. Keep your mind clear and focussed on the question, craft your response, and weave in some of the innumerable examples we have discussed over the years.

The examination is your time to shine.


To my beloved students, to everyone taking the A levels, I wish you all the best as you embark on the next phase in your life. Jiayou!!

~ Ms. Belinda, Nov 2018 ~