1A5 Info Section

Eat More Fruits and VegetablesThey are a good source of Vitamin C and have a positive effect on mental health, helping you to remain calm.

When You Feel Stressed, Don’t Ignore It …

f Take time out for yourself

f Avoid excessive caffeine, soft drinks and other stimulants

f Breathe slowly & deeply

RelaxxxxxTry a few drops of aromatic oils in a candle burner (never leave burning candles unattended).

Certain scents stimulate the production, in the brain, of the relaxing chemical, serotonin, that assists you to chill out.

10 Ways to Handle Stress1. Have organised and separate work and sleeping areas

2. Manage your time wisely

3. Prioritise important tasks

4. Break tasks into achievable small chunks

5. Visualise yourself achieving

6. Avoid “all or nothing” thinking

7. Take time out for yourself

8. Get enough sleep

9. Eat right

10. Exercise

Control Yourself!We only have 24 hours in a day, so time management is all about focusing on how we can get the most out of ourselves with the 24 hours we’re given.

Manage “Time Wasters”Do you spend too much time talking on the phone, texting, daydreaming, net surfing, watching TV, or forgetting things? Set yourself a strict time limit so these activities don’t prevent you from accomplishing the important tasks.

Make A Daily “To Do” List and Prioritise RuthlesslyList tasks according to their priority. Use categories such as:

f Things I Must Do…

f Things I Should Do…

f Things I Could Do…

It is a good idea to do this at the start of each day so that you use your day more efficiently. Break tasks up into 15min, 30min or 1 hour time lots to give a sense of deadline to tasks. Every time that you complete a task, tick it off and reward yourself.

Use Me!It is easy to forget what homework or assignment is due, when work is on, or when upcoming social events demand attendance.

It is a good idea to actively use “MyDiary” every day to note down all these commitments so you are better organised and prepared.

Create RoutinesFill in a timetable each week for when you plan to complete your homework, assignments and study – then aim to stick to it!

Over Plan To Get More DoneWork expands to fill the time you give to it, so if you only have a single job to get done in the day, then you’ll get that done. If you give yourself three jobs to complete, the chances are that you will squeeze them all in. So try to push yourself to accomplish more, by giving yourself more jobs to do in priority order.

“Don’t let the fear of the time it will take to accomplish something

stand in the way of your doing it. The time will pass anyway; we might just as well put

that passing time to the best possible use.”

Earl Nightingale

Stress Management

Time Management

2 A5 Info Section

Why Setting Goals is ImportantMost things that you want to happen do not happen by chance. You have to make them happen. Settings goals will help you achieve your aims by giving you a purpose and a focus. The following guidelines, written by Dr. Dingle, will help you achieve your goals.

Make sure your goals are:Precise: Be as specific and as clear as possible.

Positive: You will always head in the direction of your goals. A negative goal will take you in a negative direction.

Present: When your mind thinks you are already there, it will do everything it can to keep you there.

Purpose Driven: Find out what is really important to you and head in that direction. Make sure your goals are consistent with your values.

Personal: Make sure your goals are what you want and not other people’s goals.

Short Term: Set goals you can achieve each day and each week to build up your successes.

Long Term: Set long-term goals that give you something to strive for.

Challenging and Significant: Make your goals worth while. If they are too easy, your mind thinks, “Why bother?”

Measurable: This makes it easy to see how well you are doing, to measure your pace and your success.

Flexible: This means that if major things happen in your life and you are not on target, simply adjust your goals. “Stuff” happens in our lives and we can’t always plan for it.

Now write them downMost people do not write down their goals. The research shows that those who do not write their goals do not achieve them as successfully as those who do write them. Because it is a commitment, it seems hard. But the hardest part is starting.

Writing your goals more than doubles your chances of getting them. The act of writing uses the senses of sight and touch; it focuses your thoughts and uses muscles. All of these stimulate the release of chemicals in your brain, which cause millions of extra connections in the brain to be formed, greatly reinforcing your chance of achieving goals.

Goals

What are your goals?

When?Set your goals in a time frame. Set a time and a date (crucial for success).

Where?Create an environment around you to support your goals - a place that refreshes, motivates and inspires you.

Who?Who can help you and support you along the way? Identify role models, mentors. Who should you stay away from? (The negative people in your life and the media.)

Why?Why is achieving the goal so important?

What are the benefits I gain by taking action now?Start with at least 5 reasons and keep adding more reasons. This is really the most important step - it keeps you motivated. Make your reasons personal and important to you.

How?These are the steps you need to take to achieve your goals.

Goal Setting

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Weekly Goals Deadline Result

Short Term Goals Deadline Result

Long Term Goals Deadline Result

Goals for 2013

4 A5 Info Section

Getting A Job: Where To Start

Getting A Job: Interview

Be a part of the work forceThat means that you can earn some extra cash by working after school and weekends. However, finding a job can be pretty competitive, so for that extra edge you need a resumé and a few job-seeking strategies…

Go OnlineCheck out job search engines and apply online. These include: seek.com.au mycareer.com.au careerone.com.au jobsearch.gov.au

So… also ask aroundOne of the best ways to get a job is through word of mouth. Ask friends, family and relatives if they could keep their eyes and ears open for any vacancies.

Look in Shop WindowsNote that a lot of jobs are also advertised on shop windows, so it is a good idea to regularly visit shopping centres with a pen & note paper. Also try hitting the pavement to door knock businesses.

How to leave a good first impression

f Dress for the occasion, have fresh breath and be friendly to all staff you meet.

f Take a neatly presented folder with your résumé and other relevant papers e.g. references, certificates, work samples, report cards, birth certificate (never leave original documents, take a couple of copies).

f Always have a spare copy of your résumé to leave with the interviewer.

f Introduce yourself first and offer to shake their hand.

f Remember the interviewer’s name, repeat it back to him/her formally. e.g. “Pleased to meet you, Mr. Wood”.

f When you sit down, make sure you have good posture.

Don’t Fidget f Maintain eye contact when answering questions.

f Prepare questions to ask the employer e.g. “Where and with whom will I be working?”; “What training is available?”; “What will the job actually involve, including work hours?”

f Always finish the interview by offering to shake their hand, and repeat their name again. e.g. “Thanks for the interview, Mr. Wood, it was nice to meet you, I hope to hear from you soon”

Be Prepared f Always get to the interview 10 minutes early.

f Allow yourself a couple of minutes to take a few deep breaths to calm your nerves before you go in.

f Always sound enthusiastic, try to relax, enjoy yourself and be friendly.

f Everyone at some stage has to go through this and the more practice you get the better you will become.

Some typical interview questions:

f Tell me a little bit about yourself.

f Have you ever done this kind of work before?

f What do your friends like about you?

f What are your hobbies?

f What are your dislikes?

f What do you like?

f What are you good at?

f What are you good at in school?

f Why do you want this job?

f What aspects of this job interest you?

f What do you know about our company?

f Why should you get the job?

f How would you handle a difficult customer?

f Why did you leave your last job?

f What career path do you plan to take after leaving school?

f How long are you planning to stay with the job?

f How well do you think you would go in this job?

f Describe a situation where you have had to work as a part of a team.

f Describe a goal that you have set out to achieve and been successful.

5A5 Info Section

Do's and Don'ts

Skills you might have to add:

ɶ Attention to detail

ɶ Computer literate

ɶ Leadership Skills

ɶ Good at following directions

ɶ Fast Learner

ɶ Good Coordination Skills

ɶ Flexible

ɶ Commitment

ɶ Good Customer Service

ɶ Forward Thinking

ɶ Creative

ɶ Good Interpersonal Skills

Résumé Checklist

ɶ Be concise

ɶ Make it easy to read

ɶ Proofread

ɶ Leave plenty of space to ensure your résumé isn’t cluttered

ɶ Make sure your résumé is typed, not hand written

Getting A Job: Creating A Résumé

Whilst there are hundreds of ways to write a résumé and there are many proformas available on computer (e.g. in Microsoft Word), here is one example that is suitable for applying for a casual job:

Name: Kelly Jocelyn Amy FREEMAN

Contact Details: 2001 Faraway Place, WUUP WUUP, SA 5999 (08) 6789 8965

Age: 16 years

Date of Birth: 3rd March 1996

Education: Currently in year 11 at Hamilton Senior High School

Educational Plans: (If relevant)

I plan to complete my SACE/TEE and then study Environmental Science at TAFE

Work Experience:(List your highest level of work first. Try to quantify your results)

ɶ Worked at the Beach Pit Cafe, Hillarys for 2 years

ɶ Operated coffee machines, cash register, and given responsibility for opening and closing the shop, served up to 250 customers per day

ɶ Worked at Copperart, Whitfords for 6 months Put together up to 50 furniture items each day for display Awarded Customer Service Excellence Award

Academic Achievements:

ɶ Top student, English 2011

ɶ Effort and Cooperation, Honour Certificate 2010, 2011

ɶ Excellent Achievement, Honour Certificate 2011

ɶ Selected as a School Mentor and as a member of the School Committee

ɶ Part of the Academic Extension Programme since year 9

ɶ Participated in the 2011 Roadsafe Workshop

Non-Academic Achievements:

ɶ Gold and Silver medallist in the National Triathlon Team Championships: Perth 2009, Adelaide 2010

ɶ Raised $550 for the ACTIV Foundation

Character Attributes: Hardworking, reliable, honest, good sense of humour, outgoing, enjoys learning and working, focused and goal-orientated

Interests: The environment, recycling, triathlons, socialising, reading

Referees: ɶ Nigel Fisher, Copperart – Ph 9988 7766 (Employer at Copperart)

ɶ Phil Tulloch – Ph 8877 6655 (Employer at Beach Pit)

ɶ Ms Duncan, Hamilton High School – Ph 7766 5544 (Teacher)

Also attach a copy of your most recent school reports and any achievement certificates.

“ I’m never going to work for that man again.”

“ Why, what did he say?”

“ You’re fired.”

6 A5 Info Section

Tips For Buying Second Hand CarsAre you getting a good deal?When looking for a second-hand car always check:

f How many kms has it travelled?

f What condition are the tyres in?

f Are items such as the: spare tyre, petrol cap, windscreen wipers, mirrors all there?

f Does it have any extras: air conditioning? immobilser? CD player?

f Has it been in any accidents?

f Does it have a service history?

Testing… testing…Take the time to test the:

f Lights: front, back, brake, interior, dash and indicators

f Air conditioner (if it has one)

f Heater

f Radio/CD player

f Windscreen wipers

f Immobiliser

A Vehicle Inspection (by a trained professional) and of course a test

drive are highly recommended.

Types of Car InsuranceThere are 3 main types:

1. Compulsory Third Party (CTP)This insurance is compulsory - you have to pay for it. It is included in your car registration costs. CTP protects you against claims arising from the death or injury of another person, caused by your negligence. It doesn’t cover damage to vehicles or property.

2. Third Party Property Damage - Fire & TheftThis insurance covers you for loss or damage caused by fire or theft as well as loss arising from any damage you may cause to another’s property.

3. Motor Accident Damage And Liability InsuranceThis insurance gives you the greatest protection (but is the most expensive) against financial loss in the event of damage to or destruction of your own car, as well as damage to the vehicles and property of others.

NOTE: That insurance companies might not pay you if:

f The car was being driven by an unlicensed driver.

f The driver is under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

f The car has been “modified” without the insurance company’s knowledge.

f The car was unroadworthy at the time of the accident.

f You have not reported any traffic infringements e.g. speeding fines.

Getting Wheels

Who are these kids and why

are they calling me Mum

If You Lived In Your Car You’d Be Home By Now

Give Me Ambiguity

Or Give Me Something Else

Boldy Going Nowhere

I Took An IQ Test& The Results Were Negative

I’m So Broke, I Can’t

Even Pay Attention

Plan To Be Spontaneous

Tomorrow

If Everything is Coming Your Way, You’re Probably

in The Wrong Lane

7A5 Info Section

The Low-Down on Selecting Your 4-Wheeled Machine

Buying A Car - Possible Costs Small Cars Oz Small Cars Nz Med. Cars Oz Med. Cars Nz

Standing Costs /week (Registration, Insurance, Licence, RAC membership)

$32.72 $39.26 $37.37 $44.84

Running Costs per weekFuel $25.50 $31.11 $30.45 $37.14

Tyres $2.57 $3.08 $4.74 $5.69

Servicing & Repairs $15.16 $18.19 $16.60 $19.92

Total Costs per week $75.95 $91.64 $89.16 $107.59

Average Cost per km $0.26 $0.32 $0.31 $0.37

Based on 15,000km per year, NB. Depreciation and interest charges are not included.Thanks to the RAC for assisting with the compiling of this information.

f Don’t feel pressured to sign anything by anyone - take your time.

f Remember once you sign a contract you are locked into the terms and conditions so make sure you read and understand them.

f In Australia, you can get a REVS check if you are not buying from a dealer. This tells you if any money is still owing on the car. Phone: 1300 30 40 24 or visit the REVS website in your state. The RAC also conduct call-out mechanical checks for a reasonable charge.

f Look over any available paperwork, including rego, service and repair receipts, and past legal checks.

f Don’t forget to transfer ownership once you have bought the car.

f Ask the person selling the car if it is insured to cover you if you take it for a test drive. DON’T drive it if you are not insured!

f In NZ , check the vehicle has a current registration label and a Warrant of Fitness (WoF), both of these are located on the inside of the front windscreen.

f Consider getting the VTNZ or On Road staff to check its mechanical condition (Ph. 0800 88 88 69).

f Check the histor y and legal status with a Vehicle Information Report (VIR) visit www.vir.co.nz for more details.

You won’t invalidate your warranty if you service your car at a dealer approved outlet.

Oz Nz

I souport publik edekasion

Humpty Dumpty didn’t

fall... he was pushed

STUPIDITY should be Painful

Getting Wheels

If You Can Read This I’ve Lost My Trailer

Metaphors be with youWhy be difficult -

Be impossible

8 A5 Info Section

Hmmmingtown Herald Vol. XIV No. 19

Perth | January 2013

Buzz OffAn Australian tourist in South America had

the misfortune to be attacked by killer bees as

he stood on the bank of the Amazon. Seeking

refuge, he leapt into the river – and was devoured

by piranha fish. – Source Unknown.

Heads OffA Malaysian monkey that had been trained to

gather coconuts from trees, demonstrated a

pressing need for a refresher course. It leapt onto

the shoulders of a passer-by and tried to twist

his head off. The passer-by was treated at a local

hospital for a sprained neck. – Source Unknown.

Free Entry After shopping for drinks at an illegal bar,

a Zimbabwean bus driver found that the

20 mental patients he was supposed to be

transporting from Harare to Bulawayo

had escaped. Not wanting to admit his

incompetence, the driver went to a nearby

bus-stop and offered everyone in the queue

a free ride. He then delivered the passengers

to the mental hospital, telling staff that

the patients were very excitable and prone

to bizarre fantasies. The deception wasn’t

discovered for 3 days. – Source Unknown.

Inside: ɶ Grandmother of Eight Makes Hole in One.

ɶ Quarter of A Million Chinese Live On Water.

ɶ Safety Experts Say School Bus Passengers

Should Be Belted.

ɶ Eye Drops Off Shelf.

ɶ Miners Refuse To Work After Death.

ɶ WEATHER: Cold Wave Linked To

Temperatures.

Notable Quotables

“Show me a sane man and

I will cure him for you.”– Carl Gustav Jung

“I don’t want to play golf.

When I hit a ball, I want

someone else to go chase it.”

– Rogers Hornsby

“The trouble with being

punctual is that nobody’s

there to appreciate it.”

– Franklin P. Jones

the pop star when he died June 25 in a

rented Los Angeles mansion. Through

his lawyer, Murray has said he admin-

istered nothing that “should have”

killed Jackson.Murray told investigators that Jackson

stopped breathing about 10 minutes

after he relented and finally gave in to

his patient’s demands for propofol

around 10.40 am, following a night-

long regimen of sedatives that did not

work, according to court documents

unsealed Monday.

Hmmm News

9A5 Info Section

“Speak clearly, if you speak at all; carve every word before you let it fall.”-Oliver Wendell Holmes

Public speaking can be a little scary at first impressions, but is a fantastic communication skill that is worth the nerves. Public speaking is an effective way of getting your message out there and because it is so commonly expected at school, the workplace or your best friend’s wedding you might as well become a pro. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

Logistics f Who is the audience & what have you been asked to speak on

& for how long? Consider age and background knowledge of the subject, this will guide you on the depth of research you may need to do and the vocabulary you will use.

f Where is the location? Factor how long it will take you to get there, will there be peak hour traffic? Will there be speakers before and after you? What are they speaking on?

f What is the degree of formality? Will you need to make special mention of VIPs or native inhabitants of the land you are speaking on?

f Will you be using a lectern & microphone? If so, arrive early and practice using the microphone and any visual aids.

f Can you bring notes? Small palm cards with each brief point noted, will help prevent memory blocks and ease nerves and pressure of memorizing your entire speech.

f Can you use PowerPoint? Microsoft PowerPoint or similar software is a great visual aid and memory jogger. They add a professional element to your speech by helping you to communicate your message with key points, pictures and summaries. In order to avoid technical difficulties clarify if:

− A laptop will be supplied or will you need to bring your own?

− If the laptop if supplied will your slides be compatible with their software?

− Will someone be there to help you set up the projector?

− Will you have enough time to load your presentation and check if any fonts have defaulted?

Overcoming Nerves f Know your material: Become familiar with your material.

Practice your speech and revise it if necessary, until you are absolutely comfortable with what you have written.

f Visualize yourself giving your speech: When you visualize yourself as successful, you will be successful.

f Don’t apologize: Don’t draw the audience’s attention to any problems you think you have with your speech. Maintain confidence at all times.

f Focus on the message: Focus your attention away from your own anxieties, and outwardly toward your message and your audience.

f Realise that people want you to succeed: Audiences want you to be interesting, stimulating, informative, and entertaining. They don’t want you to fail.

f Gain experience: Experience builds confidence, which is the key to effective speaking.

Tips on Delivery f Practice your speech in front of a mirror: Become

comfortable with the image of you as a speaker. f Get to the point: Don’t waffle, this will only bore your

audience. f Use anecdotes and practical examples to illustrate a point, you

will make it easier for your audience to understand complex issues and to actually remember what it is that you have said!

f Time yourself: To ensure you are speaking for the correct amount of time.

f Use humour: If you think you can pull it off. f Speak at a good volume: So that people at the back will be

able to hear you clearly. f Don’t fidget: Leave your arms at your side allowing them

the freedom to gesture. f Maintain good posture: At all times! f Eye contact: Engage the audience’s attention at the start of

the speech and secure their interest and respect throughout. f Develop awareness: You should be able to feel your pace

and sense when you’re going too fast or too slow. Feel your breathing and your heart rate internally as you speak.

f Use pauses: To highlight your point and also to add a little variety.

f Vary your tone: So people will stay interested. Exaggerate your voice a little and it will sound so much better. This means increase and decrease the volume a little and be a little expressive in your talk.

f Enjoy the experience!

Tips on Using A Microphone f To avoid distortion, ensure the microphone is held no closer

than 5cm from your mouth during normal speaking. You will have to experiment a little as the distance is dependent on your natural power and ability to project.

f Gradually move the microphone away as you continue to talk and listen to the effect – at what point does the vocal sound start to fade? - That is your furthest point to remember. The optimum distance for clarity is between the shortest and furthest points.

f There are times when you will be using more volume, hitting higher or lower notes or almost whispering. Practice using different distances and positions to see how using the microphone creates different effects.

Public Speaking

10 A5 Info Section

Healthy Hobbies Healthy Attitudes

f Develop a veggie patch

f Do a spot of fishing

f Do a TAFE night course

f Do some sit ups; maybe some push ups too

f Do a Sudoku puzzle, go to www.sudokutopical.com

f Do your homework

f Email someone

f Enter some competitions

f Find a job

f Get out a good DVD

f Get the Monopoly out

f Go cycling

f Go for a run

f Go for a walk

f Go out for ice cream

f Go rollerblading

f Go shopping

f Go swimming

f Go to the beach

f Go to the gym

f Go to the library

f Join a club

f Kick the footy

f Learn a different language

f Learn an instrument

f Listen to music

f Paint a picture

f Pay off your debts

f Phone a friend

f Plan your career

f Play a Wii Game

f Play some cricket in the park

f Ponder the meaning of life

f Practice being a Master Chef - Cook dinner for everyone

f Practice 'Dancing with the Stars'

f Read a good book

f Read a magazine

f Set goals for yourself

f Shoot a few hoops

f Skateboard

f Start Christmas shopping

f Start your own business

f Study!

f Study some more!

f Surf

f Take some photographs

f Take the dog for a walk

f Take up a sport

f Tidy your room

f Watch the sun set

f Write a comedy sketch

f Write a poem

f Write a story

f Write to a pen pal

f Write your own song

Developing and maintaining a positive and constructive attitude By Jason Fox

We all have our ups and downs in life, and it is said that the lower you fall, the higher you can bounce back! It’s much like a trampoline – if you can bounce back from your lows, you can get higher and higher, where eventually life is so good you can do somersaults! Yet some people choose not to bounce back – instead of focusing on the solution, they keep their focus on their problems. This is like getting caught in the springs of a trampoline!

Three simple steps that may help you bounce back!

1. Change the way you talk to yourselfWe all have voices in our head. Sometimes these voices can be positive and encouraging, sometimes that can be negative and criticising. What we think can quickly become how we feel, so it is important to be aware of our thoughts. Our subconscious mind works on repetition and reinforcement, and it believes everything we tell it. So, next time you catch yourself thinking something negative about yourself, replace that thought with a positive affirmation – say something positive to counter the negative thought.

Or, get that negative thought out of your head and on to paper. Once you can see it in front of you, you can cross it out and replace it with something positive. Believe in that positive affirmation. Give yourself a big tick too!

2. Cultivate an optimistic outlookResearch shows that optimists outlive pessimists, and optimists are very good at offsetting blame. For example, if a pessimistic person went for a job interview, but didn’t get the position, they may think there was something wrong with them, or that the interviewer didn’t like them, or that they weren’t good enough for the job. An optimistic person might instead think that maybe they were looking for someone older, maybe they could wear better clothes to their next interview, or maybe their timetable didn’t suit the employer. If you can learn not to take things personally, you can then focus on the external things you can improve in your life.

3. Develop a keen sense of humourLaughter is a catalyst. It speeds up the process of moving on. When bad things happen to you, you always have the option to step back and laugh at the situation you are in, no matter how devastating or sad. Life is far too important to be taken seriously.

For more information about Jason’s trampoline, visit: www.drjasonfox.com

The story of Dr Jekyll & Mr. Hyde was inspired by the real

case of Charles Hyde, who committed terrible crimes

when there was a full moon.

11A5 Info Section

Writing Tips: Story Starters

Story Starters… f _________ (insert your name) RULES TODAY: f If I was the teacher of this class I would…

f ANIMALEAL: I woke up one morning and I was inside my cat’s body… every part of me was covered in fur and I had to do everything with my mouth…

f Once upon a pumpkin…

f GOLDILOCKS AND THE THREE GANGSTERS:

f THE THREE LITTLE WOLVES AND THE BIG BAD PIG:

f “Open at your own risk” was written on the label.

f I first became suspicious when my grandmother picked me up from school wearing a black leather jacket and riding a motorcycle.

f I found a note under my pillow that said… f then I called the police.

Story Enders… f I took 3 deep breaths and dove in.

f The hospital told me I would recover to full health.

f End of story.

f The clock struck 12 and finally it was Christmas.

f Never, ever again.

f I was so relieved to see my family waiting for me at the airport.

f I got into the taxi and drove away.

Top 5 Writing Tips

1) LearnLearn the craft of writing. Continue to improve your skills via workshops, books, conferences, courses, writer groups and competitions.

2) ReadEnjoy the works of great writers across a broad range of subjects both fiction and non-fiction.

3) Research Your MaterialCheck the accuracy of your facts.

If you want to publish your work then study the magazines you want to see your writing published in.

4) Maintain Your High StandardsInvest time and effort to ensure your writing is of the highest possible standard. Refuse to submit garbage.

5) Never Ever Give UpKeep writing and submitting your work until you have found someone who likes your work enough to publish it.

Consider other ways of marketing or self-publishing your work, such as e-books, subscription websites, audio books etc.

Thank you to Jen McVeity for her top 5 writing tips. You can obtain more great tips by visiting:

www.highlightingwriting.com or www.sevenstepswriting.com

I went fishing with a dotted line…I caught every

other fish.

Eight years after Jerzy Kosinski’s novel ‘Steps’ won the National Book Award, Mr.

Kosinski allowed a writer to change his name and the title and send a manuscript of

the novel to thirteen agents and fourteen publishers to test the plight of new

writers. They ALL rejected it, including Random House, which had published it!

The way a story starts is really important. The first couple of sentences make you either want to read more or just put the book away, but sometimes it’s hard to think of a good way to start a story. Here are some suggestions.

12 A5 Info Section

CAPITAL LettersC Capital letters are used for all names of people and places.

A All names and main words in titles have capitals.

P Places, days of the week and months have capitals.

I I is a capital letter when used by itself.

T Talking must begin with a capital letter.

A Addresses on envelopes have capital letters.

L Letters beginning paragraphs have capitals.

S Sentences always begin with a capital letter.

Spelling f Circle words that don’t look right.

f Have a go – syllabify (e.g. to/mor/row)

f Check words – use the computer's spellcheck, ask someone, use a dictionary, refer to a class spelling list, charts, etc.

f i before e, except after c or when sounded like “ay” as in neighbour and weigh. Some exceptions: either, foreign, height, leisure, protein, weird plus “CIEN words” including: ancient, efficient, and science.

f When you receive your work back check which words you have misspelt and keep a record of these in MyDiary.

Editing f Does my writing make sense?

f Are there any gaps in the meaning of the information I have given?

f Is the information ordered logically?

f Do the events or facts follow each other in a logical sequence?

f Can I make my piece of writing more interesting?

f Can I change words to make them more interesting?

f Is there anything that I need to add to make my ideas clearer?

f Are there any parts, or words, that I need to change?

Punctuation

Have you checked:

ɶ Capital letters?

ɶ Full stops?

ɶ Commas?

ɶ Question marks?

ɶ Speech marks?

ɶ Apostrophes?

ɶ Exclamation marks?

ɶ Paragraphing?

Editing Tips: Spelling

Quoting Rules

Underline the names of whole texts

e.g. title of novel, play, magazine.

Use inverted commas for the names of

parts of texts

e.g. chapter of novel, short story, poem.

A Freudian slip is when you say one thing but

mean your mother.

13A5 Info Section

Distrust every word on the page…and practise to master …but once you have the hang of it you’ll gain precious marks in your assignments and tests. Here are some tips for catching editing mistakes:

Be aware of your bad habits.If there are types of errors you know you tend to make, double check for those. Double check the words you often misspell.

Read one word at a time.Be sure to read what is actually on the page, not what you think is there.

Read very, very slowly.When you read normally, you see only the first and last few letters. You “fix your eyes” on the print only three or four times per line, or less. You take in the words between your fixation points with your peripheral vision, which gets less accurate the further it is from the point. The average reader can only take in six letters accurately with one fixation. This means you have to fix your eyes on almost every word you have written and do it twice for longer words, in order to proofread accurately. You have to look at the word, not slide over it

Read out loud.You are more likely to hear a mistake such as repeating or omitting words. This is because you are using two senses, seeing and hearing, and you are forced to slow down. This keeps you conscious of every word.

Proofread more than once.If possible ask friends/parents/siblings to check it too. It is harder to detect mistakes in your own work than in someone else’s.

CommasA comma is used when you take a breath in a middle of a sentence. Commas divide a sentence into parts, making it easier for the reader to understand.

“ Speech Marks ”“Use them to show when somebody is talking.”

ParagraphsA paragraph is a group of sentences dealing with the same topic. Paragraphs are indented; they start in near the middle of the line.

The Ownership ApostropheThe apostrophe is used to show that something belongs to someone or something. It goes after the last letter of the owner’s name. e.g. this is Claire’s bag.

? ? ?The question mark is placed at the end of a question. As it completes a sentence (in the same way as a full stop) the next word begins with a capital letter.

Editing Tips: Proofreading

Hints on Tricky Words ɶ a piece of pie

ɶ you hear with your ear

ɶ necessary has one collar and two socks

ɶ quite/quiet – Silent ends with the letter t and quiet ends with the letter t

ɶ principal/principle – The principal is your pal

ɶ because – Betty eats cake and uncle Sam’s eggs

ɶ accommodation – There are two caravans and two motels

ɶ meat/meet – I like to eat meat

ɶ stationary/stationery – A car is stationary

ɶ island – An island is land surrounded by sea

14 A5 Info Section

Essay Tips

How To Write A Formal Analytical Essay

IntroductionThe first paragraph in your essay should:

f Demonstrate that you understand the question.

f Clarify any difficult parts of the topic.

f Include the “courtesy” details: the genre, the text’s name and the name of the writer or director.

f State your proposition or thesis.

f This is your opinion on the topic, i.e. where you position yourself in terms of your reading of the text in response to the question.

f Broadly outline the approach you will take with your argument, i.e. how you will proceed in order to persuade the reader.

f Do not be too detailed – save this for the body of your essay.

Body of the Essay Each paragraph in the body of your essay should:

f Have a topic sentence which contains the main idea of the paragraph.

f This sentence may be your first assertion or claim which attempts to prove your thesis.

f Provide evidence or examples from the text to support your claims. Make sure that this evidence is specific and relevant. You can do this by quoting or paraphrasing the text.

f Explain the relevance of this evidence, connecting it directly with the essay question. Often this part of the paragraph requires the most attention.

f Link to your thesis and the next paragraph.

Conclusion The last paragraph should:

f Briefly summarise the main ideas (assertions) which were developed in the body of the essay.

f Consolidate or reaffirm your thesis or proposition of paragraph one. In other words, this means that you would rephrase it.

f In some instances, evaluate the consequences of your thesis, or discuss the importance of your findings.

Key Words in Essay Questions & What They Really Mean

Summarise: To sum up; give the main points briefly.

Evaluate: Give the good points and the bad ones and your own opinion on the issue.

Explain: Make clear; interpret; make plain; tell “how” to do.

Enumerate: List the main events or reasons.

Define: Give the meaning of a word or concept; place it in the class to which it belongs and differentiate it from other items.

Compare: Bring out the points of similarity and points of difference.

Contrast: Bring out the points of difference.

Discuss: Talk over; consider from various points of view.

Criticise: State your opinion of the correctness or merit of an item or issue.

Justify: Show good reasons for.

Trace: Follow the course of; follow the trail of.

Interpret: Make plain; give your meaning of; translate.

Prove: Establish the truth of something by giving factual evidence or logical reasons.

Illustrate: Use a word picture, a diagram, a chart, or a concrete example to clarify a point.

15A5 Info Section

To improve your study, you need to know where your weaknesses lie. This checklist will help you understand what skills you need to focus your attention on so that you get better marks in school.1. I seem to spend so much time studying for one small test. True False

2. I can’t find a balance between socializing and study; it is always one or the other. True False

3. I seem to spend hours cramming the night before a test or an exam. True False

4. When I get a large assignment I feel so overwhelmed that I can’t get started. True False

Any true answers? If yes, you may want to focus your attention on your Time Management Skills. Read page 1 for some handy hints. Also use the Study Timetable on page 16 to better plan your time.

5. I can’t sit and study for long periods of time without becoming tired or distracted. True False

6. I daydream, doodle or go to sleep in class. True False

Any true answers? If yes, you may want to focus your attention on your Concentration Skills. Your ability to concentrate depends:

f On commitment: So give yourself a motivational talk about how better grades lead to more career opportunities. f Enthusiasm for the task: Reward yourself, e.g. promise to phone a friend if you complete your study goal for the night. f Emotional and physical state: Eat good clean food and exercise regularly. Try burning a few drops of peppermint oil in a candle burner to stimulate your brain.

7. When I try to read my notes from class I can’t understand them. True False

8. I can never seem to take down good notes that will help me in tests later on. True False

9. I don’t review my class notes consistently throughout the year. True False

Any true answers? If yes, you may want to focus your attention on your Taking Notes & Revision Skills.

Here are some tips:

f Divide your revision time into 20 minute sessions.

f Revise each night what you did in class that day by…

− Highlighting key words and points.

− Reading more slowly so that you actually understand it.

f Skim-read to get the general idea.

f Make notes and special summaries to memorise

For more handy hints check out: www.how-to-study.com

Study Space Checklist

ɶ My Study Space is free from interruptions.

ɶ My Study Space is free from distractions such as TV and loud music.

ɶ My Study Space contains all the study materials I need such as pens, paper, computer, calculator.

ɶ My Study Space has a large enough desk/table.

ɶ My Study Space has enough storage space.

ɶ My Study Space has a comfortable chair.

Study Skill Checklist

16 A5 Info Section

Study TimetableTi

me

Mon

day

Tues

day

Wed

nesd

ayTh

ursd

ayFr

iday

Satu

rday

Sund

ay

Each

wee

k dr

aw u

p a

stud

y pl

an (

copy

, or

even

pho

toco

py, t

he e

xam

ple

give

n). A

sk y

ours

elf

wha

t is

com

ing

up i

n th

e ne

xt w

eek

and

note

it i

n yo

ur t

imet

able

. Al

so n

ote

dow

n yo

ur n

on-s

tudy

com

mit

men

ts, e

.g. s

port

s, jo

bs, h

obbi

es a

nd s

ocia

l eve

nts.

Fil

l in

the

tim

es y

ou p

lan

to s

tudy

dur

ing

the

wee

k… a

nd s

tick

to it

!

17A5 Info Section

Study TimetableTim

eM

ondayTuesday

Wednesday

ThursdayFriday

SaturdaySunday

Each week draw

up a study plan (copy, or even photocopy, the example given). Ask yourself w

hat is coming up in the next w

eek and note it in your timetable.

Also note down your non-study com

mitm

ents, e.g. sports, jobs, hobbies and social events. Fill in the times you plan to study during the w

eek… and stick to it!

18 A5 Info Section

Date Subject Score Mean Date Subject Score Mean

Record of Results

19A5 Info Section

Date Period Reason Teacher’s Signature

Time Left

Time Ret’d

Out of Class Permission

20 A5 Info Section

Date Period Reason Teacher’s Signature

Time Left

Time Ret’d

Out of Class Permission

21A5 Info Section

Dear Form / Tag / Group / Home room

As parent / guardian of Year

I wish to advise that on

he / she was / will be absent. failed to complete set homework. is requesting early departure. was / will be late.

Time Time

Reason

Medical certificate attached Signature Date

Dear Form / Tag / Group / Home room

As parent / guardian of Year

I wish to advise that on

he / she was / will be absent. failed to complete set homework. is requesting early departure. was / will be late.

Time Time

Reason

Medical certificate attached Signature Date

Dear Form / Tag / Group / Home room

As parent / guardian of Year

I wish to advise that on

he / she was / will be absent. failed to complete set homework. is requesting early departure. was / will be late.

Time Time

Reason

Medical certificate attached Signature Date

Dear Form / Tag / Group / Home room

As parent / guardian of Year

I wish to advise that on

he / she was / will be absent. failed to complete set homework. is requesting early departure. was / will be late.

Time Time

Reason

Medical certificate attached Signature Date

Absentee Notes

22 A5 Info Section

Every year many accidents occur, but with some care, they can be avoided. Below is a list of treatments for accidents which can sometimes happen. Read each carefully so that you will be able to give vital first aid if needed.

REMEMBER to always seek help from an adult immediately.

1. Burns and scaldsBurns and scalds are caused by fire, contact with hot objects, exposure to the sun’s rays, hot water and steam – with care these can be avoided.

f Wash with cold water for up to 20 minutes until the area has returned to normal body temperature and apply a sterile dressing.

f Seek medical advice immediately. f Do not apply any lotions, ointments or oily dressings.

2. Bleeding - act quickly f Press edges of wound together. f Firmly apply a dressing and thick pad over wound. f Elevate the bleeding area. f Seek medical aid.

3. Nose bleeds f Do not blow the nose. f Breathe through the mouth. f Pinch the nose between the fingers for ten minutes. f Sit up with the head slightly forward. f Place cold wet towels on neck and forehead.

4. Bee stings f Remove the sting by scraping sideways with fingernails. f Apply a cold compress.

5. Animal bites f Clean thoroughly and apply a sterile bandage. f Seek medical advice.

6. Fainting f Loosen patient’s clothing and allow plenty of fresh air. f Lie the person down with the legs raised and the head and body flat.

7. Snake bites f Keep the casualty calm and resting. f Apply a firm bandage around the limb, beginning at the bitten area. Bandage to the toes or fingers, then as far up the leg or arm as possible.

f Apply a splint using a piece of timber or any rigid object. f Leave bandages and splint on limb until medical care is reached. f Seek medical aid. f Don’t CUT or WASH the bitten area as the snake might be identified from remaining venom.

LEARN FIRST AIDThis guide is not a substitute for attending a first aid course. St. John Ambulance Australia conducts courses in first aid in all States. Contact your State centre for details or visit: http://www.stjohn.org.au

Left to our own devices, our ability to pick a liar is no better than if we were to guess at random. Here are some clues to improve your lie detecting skills:

Verbal Clues f Longer pauses between word/sentences

f Timing of expressions, gestures and emotions are off a normal pace

f The liar may stutter or sweat (as heart beat increases)

f Speech may slow

f Or increase in pitch

Detail Clues f There are fewer details about times and locations of objects and places in a lie, but the guilty person may speak more to avoid silence or pauses in the conversation.

f A lie often has more structure than an honest story, and flows from beginning to end in a chronological order.

f A liar will use your words to answer a question. For example, “Did you eat the last TimTam?” The liar answers, “No, I did not eat the last TimTam.”

Reacting and Interacting f A guilty person gets defensive and is quick to justify. An innocent person will often go on the offensive demonstrating aggression, anger or resentment.

f Change the subject of a conversation quickly, a liar follows along willingly and becomes more relaxed. An innocent person may be confused by the sudden change in topics and will want to go back to the previous subject.

Obviously, just because someone exhibits one or more of these signs does not make them a liar. The above behaviours should be compared to a person’s normal behaviour.

Basic First AidHow to Detect a Fibber

23A5 Info Section

Dear Form / Tag / Group / Home room

As parent / guardian of Year

I wish to advise that on

he / she was / will be absent. failed to complete set homework. is requesting early departure. was / will be late.

Time Time

Reason

Medical certificate attached Signature Date

Dear Form / Tag / Group / Home room

As parent / guardian of Year

I wish to advise that on

he / she was / will be absent. failed to complete set homework. is requesting early departure. was / will be late.

Time Time

Reason

Medical certificate attached Signature Date

Dear Form / Tag / Group / Home room

As parent / guardian of Year

I wish to advise that on

he / she was / will be absent. failed to complete set homework. is requesting early departure. was / will be late.

Time Time

Reason

Medical certificate attached Signature Date

Dear Form / Tag / Group / Home room

As parent / guardian of Year

I wish to advise that on

he / she was / will be absent. failed to complete set homework. is requesting early departure. was / will be late.

Time Time

Reason

Medical certificate attached Signature Date

Absentee Notes

24 A5 Info Section

Notes