THE DRAGON'S PEN
/By Milan Streit
COVID-19 CLOSES SCHOOLS
Two Options To Consider
Unless a miracle happens, public schools in our province will remain closed this month. But many students still need to learn some way. How can the education system implement teaching during this scary time?
The first option being discussed is postponing education until summer, giving students a massive break. The summer learning time would take place inside school like normal, though term three would be shorter. The second option is full online teaching until June. Since the Vancouver School Board already has an online teaching platform, it would be seemingly easy to implement.
So, let's compare the two options. What would work better for students?
Most people would say online school would be the best option. However, that would mean no hands-on courses like Woodwork. Online school also limits interaction with teachers. Students who are visual learners would be disadvantaged. But the main problem with online learning is that students can cheat on tests with ease. For example, if you're stuck on a question, you can literally pull out your phone and search it on Google.
But postponing the school year also has problems. Mainly, it would interfere with a student’s summer plans, such as vacations and camp. Another issue has to do with the hot summer weather. Most schools in the Vancouver School Board, including King George, do not have air conditioning, meaning students would be sweating and would be extremely hot. It would also encourage skipping school to go to things like the beach.
Our conclusion? Both systems have major flaws. However, postponing the school year would be more beneficial for different types of learners, including hands-on and visual.
LEADERSHIP RESILIENCY PROGRAM GOES ONLINE
With school being closed, Vancouver Coastal Health’s LRP program has found a creative way to continue meetings on Tuesday. Teen leaders and volunteers have chosen to do online meetings, using an app called Zoom, similar to Skype. This allows members, to share their voice and keep physical distance during this dark time.
FIVE THINGS TO DO DURING SELF-QUARANTINE
Let's face it, quarantine is boring. You’re limited to your house in terms of activity space and you can only communicate with your friends by phone or computer. So I've provided five things fun things to do, requiring minimal effort to set up.
1) Set up a video game chat room: Playing games with your friends is one of the best ways to pass the time. I suggest Minecraft due to its easy access and any Battle Royal game.
2) Read a book: There are many great reads out there, especially for high schoolers. Since many bookstores are closed, download an e-book or order one online instead.
3) Practice good fitness: Since we are stuck home, getting in some exercise is great. You can YouTube a good training video or even pull out your old Wii.
4) Movie/Netflix: Catching up on your favourite show or watching a movie is great for passing time. I suggest The Office on Netflix as the show turns 15 this year and is a favourite in our school.
5) Phone family : Since this pandemic has separated many people, why not phone family members like your grandparents to see how they are doing?
COVID-19 FACTS vs FICTION
With a world crisis like this, many forms of misinformation or “fake news” exist. For the best and most current information, you can download the BC Covid-19 app from the provincial government. Also, Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry and Health Minister Adrian Dix provide a coronavirus update six days a week from Victoria or Vancouver.
A King George Alumnus who truly made a name for himself — Jimi Hendrix.
iNTO THE ARCHIVES
Remembering A Famous Alumnus
Today in the archives, we are looking at a former King George student. He was one of the greatest guitar players of all time and his name was Jimi Hendrix. He attended King George for grades 10 and 11 in the 1950s.
Hendrix was born and grew up in Seattle. However, after his parents’ divorce, he moved in with his grandmother in Vancouver's historic Hogan’s Alley neighbourhood. He then studied at the original King George Secondary.
Later, in 1959, he bought his first guitar for $5 at A&B Sound. Unfortunately, he had to relocate when Hogan’s Alley was demolished to make way for the proposed Vancouver Freeway.
He found success with his guitar playing locally, and soon turned into an international celebrity, releasing many hit albums and went on many tours.
He died young after a drug overdose in his London apartment.
“When the power of love overcomes the love of power the world will know peace.”
- Jimi Hendrix
