Issuu

i-Learner Burns Term

Newsletter News letter F ebr ua r y 2 0 2 1

STERM STEAM

Contents Sneak Peek: Stuck in the Mud Pt 1

Hong Kong Science Stars

古今中外的「STEM」和「STEAM」

Home Scientist: Fantastic Flowers

p8-9

How to Get Started with Programming

p12

活字印刷術

p16-17

智愛中文徵文比賽

This summer, we’re Going Global. Strive for academic excellence and discover the world’s treasures with i-Learner. Explore language and culture through our international-themed summer courses.

Our STEM Experiences

p10-11 p14-15

STEAM Reading We Recommend

p18-19

Fun and Games

p22-23

i-Learner Publishing: STEAM Series

Call 3113 8815 to reserve your spot.

p4-5

p20-21

Message from Ms Pun

The Importance of STEAM STEM stands for science, technology, engineering and mathematics. STEM subjects help students become innovative with technology so they can make our world a better place. Recently, STEM has become STEAM. The A in STEAM stands for arts, which means language, literature, fine art, drama, performance and design. But how do the arts belong with science and technology? STEAM is an echo of our relatively new senior secondary school curriculum, which allows students to choose a combination of science and arts subjects for their electives. In other words, we do not need to limit our learning within the boundary of either science or arts. STEAM is also a response to the development of interdisciplinary studies at our universities, in which students can take courses across different departments. Interdisciplinary studies allow us to use theories and methodologies from other departments in order to create new solutions. Blended education – a mix of science and art – unleashes the true creativity we need for the future. From a young age, students tend to draw boundaries for themselves. They say they’re good at maths or drama, and they don’t usually embrace both. STEAM is a signal for us all to rethink this myth of separate fields of ability and knowledge. Can a scientist be a painter? Can a writer be an engineer? Can a poet be a programmer? I don’t see why not. A painter’s understanding of lines and colours helps them visualise the scientific secrets of the world; a writer narrates their engineering ideas with clarity that leads to incredible and efficient projects; a programmer brings the detailed perspective on the world that we also see in poetry. A blended education gives us a wealth of new possibilities. STEAM sounds like a new term or idea. However, when we look back in history, we realise it has always been here: DaVinci was good at art, maths and engineering; and Albert Einstein was not only a revolutionary scientist but also an accomplished violinist. Roald Dahl’s amazing history includes experiences as a spy, an ace fighter pilot, a chocolate historian and a medical inventor. That definitely explains why he was able to create so many fun and incredible stories!

Kemmiss Pun 2

The full series of Bugbug’s Library is OUT NOW! Read one of the Level 4B stories, inspired by the wildlife in Hong Kong.

Chapter 1 Meg, Nick and Jack were walking along the harbour in Tsim Sha Tsui. ‘Look!‛ said Jack. ‘People are fishing here.‛ ‘Yuck, the water looks very dirty,‛ said Meg. ‘Why are they fishing? There aren‛t any fish in there.‛ ‘Yes, there are!‛ said Jack. ‘My dad took me fishing once, and we spotted some fantastic fish. We even saw some special ones. They didn‛t live in water!‛ Meg and Nick scratched their heads. ‘Are you sure?‛ asked Nick. ‘I think all fish live in water. Did you see frogs, not fish?‛ ‘They were fish!‛ said Jack. ‘I‛ll take you to them. You‛ll see.‛ Brilliant!‛ said Meg. The children took a bus to a mangrove forest. There was lots of mud there. The children walked through the mud and tried to spot the strange fish. Something climbed on Meg‛s foot. ‘Oh!‛ she cried. ‘What‛s that? Is it Jack‛s fish?‛ 5 bug’s 4B of Bug k and Nic In Level join Meg, nds to Library, kworm frie of their boo en treasures hidd visit the g and unravel Hong Kon from the past. mysteries 10 graded of ion ect rners This coll guides lea readers damental fun through topics. With grammar tures, levelled , pic vibrant and vocabulary grammar ge of exercises, and a ran ks boost these boo and enthusiasm nce fide con rners into to turn lea readers. ate passion

To continue reading, get your own copy of this book from the Bugbug’s Library Level 4B set in the i-Learner Education Centres or buy it online! The next installment of this story will be published in the 2021 Austen Term newsletter.

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西方古代的「Polymath」（博學家）

想知道更多與達文西同時代的米

早在約公元前5世紀，璀璨的古希臘文明進入巔峰，科學、哲學和藝術上皆有許多成就，為近現代的西方文明打下基礎。我們熟悉的「希臘三賢」蘇格拉底（BC 470-399）、柏拉圖（BC 429-347）和亞里士多德（BC 384-322）都出自這個時代，亞里士多德更是代表性的「博學家」。

開朗基羅和拉斐爾的故事嗎？讀讀這篇關於文藝復興時期「畫壇三傑」的文章吧！

甚麼是「STEM」？甚麼是「STEAM」？「STEM」由「Science」、「Technology」、「Engineering」和「Mathematics」四門學科首字母拼成，近20年較常應用在各國教育政策和課程設計中，追求跨學科與實用性。科技日新月異，新的教學形式層出不窮。過去的2020年裏，網絡教學推進尤為迅疾，「STEM」在我們生活、教育中的應用也更為深入。

大約14世紀至16世紀，當時歐洲湧起「文藝復興」（Renaissance）的熱潮。學者不僅追求各種科學知識，藝術方面也有許多創新貢獻。「博學家」（Polymath）一詞便源於此時，鼎鼎大名的達文西（1452-1519）更是這些「通才」中的代表人物。

古今中「STEM」和「

在「STEM」的基礎上，教育學家進一步提出了「STEAM」的概念。它與「STEM」的唯一分別，就是多了一個代表「Arts」的「A」。「STEAM」不再專注於科學相關的概念，融科學和藝術為一體，跨度更大。應用在教學上，對教師和學生的智識要求更高，內容形式也相應更靈活了。科技是新的，概念卻亙古有之。早在古代的東西方，關於如何結合科學和藝術，古人便有精彩的展示。

古騰堡計劃（Project Gutenberg）是最早的數字圖書館，許多西方經典著作都可在此處讀到。

[中] 墨子（BC 470-391）領域：

政治學、社會哲學、力學、幾何學、代數學和光學

代表作：《墨子》、《墨經》科學成就：對槓桿原理、光的直線傳播和「粒子論」等皆有論述。

[古希臘] 亞里士多德（BC 384-322）領域：

物理學、形而上學、詩歌 (包括戲劇)、音乐、生物學、經濟學、動物學、邏輯學、政治、政府、以及倫理學

代表作：《詩學》、《物理學》、《工具論》等科學成就：著作成為西方邏輯學、物理學、生物學等學科的基石。

[中] 張衡（78-139）領域：

天文學、地理學、數學、科學和文學

代表作：《二京賦》、《歸田賦》科學成就：發明渾天儀、地動儀和指南車，計算圓周率準確至小數點後一个位等。

想知道更多與墨子同時代其

中國古代的「博學」

他思想家的故事嗎？讀讀這

那麼，中國古代有「博學」的說法嗎？當然有了！「博學」這個詞先由孔子提出：「君子博學於文，約之以禮」，專指文化禮儀方面的知識。更接近現代「博學」概念的是「雜學」，指兼含各類學說的學問，天文地理的科學知識皆在此列。

篇關於春秋戰國時期「諸子百家」的文章吧！

春秋戰國時期，各國諸侯為強國爭霸，廣招人才，思想言論空前自由，是中國思想、學術發展的黃金時期，百家爭鳴，有「諸子百家」（Hundred Schools of Thought）之稱。當中曾與儒家分庭抗禮的墨家，便在邏輯學、物理學等科學領域有諸多涉及。

想以有趣的方式，了解更多東西方的學者嗎？不妨觀賞一下這場東方哲學家和西方

哲學家的經典饒舌爭霸戰! 科舉時代，「雜學」就是「孔孟」之外的所有學問。不過，文人雅士在文學、藝術方面多有造詣，是藝術方面的「通才」。他們之中，也有不少熱心科學研究，有許多偉大的發明和論述，漢朝發明「渾天儀」的張衡、宋朝今日香港的一生致志於科學研究的沈括，都在科學上有「STEM」和「STEAM」卓越的成就。「STEM」的理念雖在20世紀90年代便已提出，不過近年方在香港實行。2015年11月，香港教育局發佈《推動STEM教育》（中文版）（英文版），此後便著力在中小學和高等院校推動STEM教育。

中外的和「STEAM」

目前，香港大學、香港教育大學、香港中文大學和香港理工大學等高等院校多有開展校本支援計劃、科普講座、教師培訓、跨地學術交流和中小學生科普教育活動等不同形式的計劃和活動，促進香港的 STEM教育。「STEM」也成為了許多中小學校本課程的一部分。學生以小組形式學習和參與「編程機械人」、「水火箭」等科技產品的發明，完成科學、科技、工程及數學的跨學科知識應用。不過，無論是世界範圍，還是香港一地，「STEM」和「STEAM」教育的普及和完善還任重而道遠。讓我們一起攜手，從身邊做起，把知識運用在自身與社會中吧！

[中] 沈括（1031-1095）領域：

自然科學、考古學、數學、藥理學、形而上學、建築學、農學、經濟學、軍事戰略、民族誌、音樂和占卜。

代表作：《夢溪筆談》科學成就：確定北極星的位置、糾正陰曆陽曆的錯誤等。

[意] 李奧納多·達文西（1452-1519）領域：

繪畫、工程學、建築學、天文學、解剖學、幾何學、數學、物理學和動力學。

代表作：《蒙娜麗莎》、《最後的晚餐》等。科學成就：構思了直升机、機關槍、機器人、坦克、太阳能聚焦使用、计算器等發明。

[法] 尚-亨利·法布爾（1823 - 1915）領域：

博物學、昆蟲學和科普寫作。

代表作：《昆蟲記》科學成就：多次獲得法國學士院的獎項。

Gigi Lam English teacher

Hong Kong Science Stars Last year, we all became very aware of how quickly viruses can spread! This is why it’s important for us to diagnose illnesses and diseases - we want to stop them in their tracks. Luckily, Hong Kong scientists are leading the way in this diﬃcult task. Read about their important work and be inspired - can you become a Hong Kong science star too? A team at the Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) has recently developed a microrobot system called QuickCAS, which can quickly ﬁnd common pathogens. Pathogens are the germs which cause illnesses and diseases.

How does QuickCAS work?

Why is QuickCAS better?

Samples are collected from patients and added to the QuickCAS chip that has microrobots (mini robots) that can ﬁnd pathogens. The sample chip is then inserted into QuickCAS to be analysed.

QuickCAS is better than some of the other methods that are being used to detect germs and viruses. QuickCAS is cheaper and gives results very quickly, in only 15-30 minutes. It is easy to use, which makes the workload and risks much less for medical staﬀ. Unlike other methods, the microrobots don’t need to be refrigerated or frozen, so they can be stored and easily transported at room temperature. This means that this system can be used everywhere, even in isolated places.

What is the future of QuickCAS? The CUHK team is working hard to develop this system so that QuickCAS can be used to diagnose COVID-19. Hopefully the research goes well and COVID-19 can be detected much more quickly in the future!

Looking to develop your English? Interested in Science, Technology, Engineering or Maths? Want to study abroad? Broaden your skills and develop essential STEM skills needed for the future whilst improving your English language skills in our immersive online STEM camp.

網上

Our online camp is taught by native English speakers from top universities in the UK. Participate in explosive experiments, make incredible invisible ink and compete in our Maths

訓練營

and Engineering challenges!

S cience. Te chno lo g y. Eng ine ering. M aths.

Develop key skills:

 English speaking, listening, reading and writing

Grades: P4 - P6 Dates: 5 - 8 April 2021 Camp Fee: $4500 Partial scholarships available Maximum 6 students a group

 Critical Thinking

 Creativity

 Independent Thinking

 Problem-solving

 Observation

 Team Work

 Analytical Thinking

Day 1 15:00 - 15:25

Day 2

Day 3

Day 4

Group Activities and Warm-Up

15:30 - 16:30

Introduction to STEM

Building a Volcano & Lab Skills

Making Invisible Ink & Report Writing

Bridge Engineering Challenge

16:40 - 17:40

The Solar System & Space Maths Challenge

The Human Body

Charles Darwin, Evolution and Inheritance

Presenting Science

17:40 - 18:00

Round-Up: What did you learn today?

100%

of students increased their Scientific Knowledge, English speaking, reading and presentation skills

96%

of students recommend the camp to a friend www.i-learner.edu.hk Tsim Sha Tsui Centre: 2/F Ritz Plaza, 122 Austin Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon Wan Chai Centre: 6/F, 303 Hennessy Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong 7

Hannah Patient English teacher

Home Scientist: Fantastic Flowers Did you know that the oldest ﬂower is more than 125 million years old? Or that sunﬂowers turn to face the sun as it moves from east to west every day? There are so many fun facts we can learn with science!

Petal Anther Stamen Filament

Here is a fun and easy experiment so you can learn even more. You can do this one at home, and put your scientiﬁc skills and creativity to the test.

Stigma

Let’s learn more about flowers Flowers aren’t just pretty – they’re an important part of the plant because their job is to help it reproduce and make more flowers. Like humans, flowers have male and female parts. The male part is the stamen, which produces pollen, and the female part is the ovary, which produces ovules or tiny eggs. Pollen needs to move from the stamen of one flower to the stigma of another flower to reproduce. This process is called pollination. Bees are very important to our planet because they help pollination. As they move from flower to flower, looking for nectar to drink, they also move the pollen that has stuck to their legs. This is what helps plants to reproduce, and without flowers, plants can’t make fruit, vegetables, grain, or anything else that we eat.

Pollen

Let’s do an experiment, and you can see the diﬀerent parts of a ﬂower for yourself. You will need:

Method:

● A ﬂower

1.Start by removing the sepals and then the petals

● Tissue paper ● Pens, pencils, paints and paper ● Heavy books

2.Remove the stamens and find the pollen on the anthers 3.Carefully cut the flower in half so that you can see inside it – there should be tiny ovules in the ovary 4.Stick your flower onto a piece of thick paper or card 5.‘Press’ your flower by covering it with protective tissue paper and placing it under the heavy books for one to two weeks 6.Remove the pressed flower 7.Label as many of the different parts of the flower as you can

This ﬂower experiment is an example of a science experiment that students do in science class in UK primary school. If you enjoyed this or want to ﬁnd out more about school life in the UK, join one of i-Learner’s UK Schools Experience Days. The next ones are at Chinese New Year. Sessions are available for students from P3 to S2. This is a fantastic opportunity for students to explore new topics in a range of subjects including science, history, geography and modern foreign languages. Contact us for dates and full details on 3113 8815.

Ovary Ovule Nectary Sepal

for Pre-School English Courses Make your own magic with a mix of music,storytelling, crafts and activities.

C�� !

STEM是科學（Science）、技術（Technology）、工程（Engineering）及數學（Mathematics）四類學科的首字母縮略字。這些學科對我們的現在與未來都有極大影響，我們想聽聽你的意見，以及你對未來的推斷與想像。

初小組

高小組

(小一至小三)

(小四至小六)

《記一次網上上課的難忘經歷》

《__________》(發明名字)

這一年的變化很大，我們的生活模式也隨之改變。上課、遊玩也搬到網上進行，你有沒有甚麼難忘的經歷？

如果要你發明一樣便利的科技產品，你會發明甚麼? 智愛學教育中心徵集各位小小科學家的創意，快快寫下你的無限創意！你還可以自己畫設計圖呢！

體裁：

日記

體裁：

字數上限： 350字

2 0 2 1

使用說明書

字數上限： 600字

中學組

(中一至中六)

《我的2020關鍵詞》

《Zoom課堂的利與弊》

2020年已成為「過去式」，相信對每個人都是不平凡的一年。你的2020關鍵詞是甚麼呢？寫出你的2020年，寫出過去一年中，你最想紀念的點點滴滴。

你上過Zoom課堂嗎？相信Zoom課堂對絕大部分學生都不陌生，甚而成為生活的一部分。你認為Zoom課堂有何利弊，是利大於弊，還是利大於弊呢？

體裁：

不限

體裁：

字數上限： 800字

議論文

字數上限： 800字

截稿日期由即日起至2021年3月31日下午六時前。

比賽規定

_____

● 使用比賽專用稿紙。初小組

高小組 _____

中學組 _____

● 每位參賽者只可繳交一份稿件。 ● 嚴禁抄襲或冒名頂替。

獎項 ● 每個組別各設優勝者乙名，優秀入圍者若干名。 ● 優勝者將獲總值$1,000獎學金，智愛學出版社出版書籍一套（自選）及獎狀； ● 優秀入圍者將獲智愛學出版社出版中文書籍一本及獎狀。 ● 所有獲獎者的作品將刊登在智愛學教育中心2021

Austen學期通訊和i-Learner的FB主頁上。

獎項公佈各組得獎名單將於智愛學教育中心2021 Austen學期通訊公佈。

參賽方法 1. 親身：把作品寫於比賽專用稿紙上，並親身前往智愛學教育中心（香港九龍尖沙咀柯士甸道122號麗斯中心2樓）交給前台。 2. 電郵：比賽作品以掃描本形式繳交，電郵至writingcontest.ilearner@gmail.com，電郵標題請註明「智愛學中文徵文比賽（組別）」； 3. 郵寄：把作品寫於比賽專用稿紙上，連郵寄至「智愛學教育中心」，地址為「香港九龍尖沙咀柯士甸道122號麗斯中心2樓」，信封請註明「智愛中文徵文比賽（組別）」。

中文

我們的中文寫作課程一方面教授孩子不同文體的寫作方式，和提升作文可讀性的寫作技巧；另一方面，也通過腦力激蕩、故事接龍、角色扮演、字詞積累、範文閱讀

寫作班

等豐富的形式，幫助孩子建立起自己的素材「寶庫」。

課程從即將升入小學的K3階段橫跨中學，無論您想幫助子女寫出正確、完整而具體的句子，熟練掌握各種文體、實用文格式和修辭技巧，還是寫出優美的小小說、戲劇乃至嚴謹的專題小論文，這裡都有為您子女量身定做的課堂。

Iain MacDonald English teacher

How to Get Started with Programming

https://scratch.mit.edu/

https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.circuitjam

Scratch

Circuit Jam

A great way to learn how to write code is through a programme called Scratch. With Scratch you can create apps or games by dragging and dropping blocks. Even though it seems very simple, it’s a fantastic stepping stone before moving on to more difficult programming languages. It’s great fun too!

Circuit simulator software is often expensive and difficult to use. Circuit Jam is a gamefor Android which teaches you how to build basic circuits. It’s very accurate to the real world so as you are playing, you are also learning about types of circuit components - what they do and how they interact with each other. Why not start right now?

https://makecode.adafruit.com/

https://microbit.org/

Circuit Playground

BBC Micro Bit

If you want something more practical, I would recommend Circuit Playground electronic modules. There are loads of ideas for creative crafts. You can make a crown that lights up and flashes when you tilt your head, or an electronic spinner to help you choose the next movie to watch. You can buy these in some shops in Sham Shui Po or order them online.

BBC Micro Bit modules are also available in Hong Kong, around Sham Shui Po, or you can order them online. You can create games or inventions using the grid of LEDs, input buttons or temperature sensors. You can even communicate with other units using the built-in radios! Why not connect motors and other accessories to make robots? The possibilities are endless.

UK Study Experience Day

Preparing to study in the UK?

Our UK Study Experience Day gives 小三 students a taste of studying in a UK school and prepares them for the transition.

In the morning, classes following the UK curriculum will cover new and interesting topics. Classes will involve a range of activities including group work and discussion. In the afternoon, students will participate in a UK cultural learning project to aid assimilation.

英國學校學習體驗課程 Develop key skills: 訓練關鍵學習技能 Group work 團隊合作技巧 Discussion 討論技巧 Independent working 獨立工作能力 Active learning 主動學習技能 Individual thinking 獨立思考能力 Classroom interaction 課堂互動技巧

Venue: i-Learner Education Centre (Tsim Sha Tsui) or Online Zoom Class Time: Dates:

9:00 - 15:30 (students must bring a packed lunch)

s e d a r G P3-至S中2二

Students will have the opportunity to bridge their knowledge and discover if a British education is right for them.

Develop key knowledge : 掌握關鍵知識: UK classroom environment and teaching style 英國的課堂環境和教學方式 UK culture and traditions 英國傳統和英國文化 History and geography of the UK 英國歷史和地理 Learn essential UK curriculum topics from subjects such as English, Maths, Science, History, Geography, Religious Education (RE), Design and Technology (DT) and Modern Foreign Languages 英國學制中的主要必修科 (英語, 數學, 科學, 歷史, 地理, 宗教教育,設計與工藝和現代外語等)

P3 - P4

P5 - P6

S1 - S2

9:00-12:00, 13:00-15:30

9th Feb 2021

10th Feb 2021

11th Feb 2021

a. Half a day 半日: $8000 ($1000 for non-centre students 非本中心學生) b. A whole day 全日: $1250 ($1600 for non-centre students 非本中心學生)

Other related programmes 其他國際銜接增值課程

i-Learner also runs a range of courses and camps across the year that provide international education experiences. Our Oxbridge Science and Humanities camps give secondary students a virtual experience of UK education. Taught by top UK university graduates, students can prepare for the exciting challenges of studying in the UK.

Our Young Globetrotters Immersive Online STEM Camp gives primary students an early taste of STEM in an interactive, English speaking environment. Taught by science graduates from top UK universities, students develop a range of essential skills, such as problem-solving, critical thinking, and teamwork, in addition to boosting their general English skills and confidence.

Book your place by sending a WhatsApp to 9049 3014 or calling 3113 8815. 13

Our STEM Experiences

Many i-Learner teachers studied STEM subjects at university. We interviewed them to get some tips on how they prepared for their studies and what they learned. Read their responses to learn more about the diﬀerent entry requirements, preparation and skills they gained from their STEM studies.

What subject did you study at university and what were the entry requirements? Mr Michael: Risk Management Science at the Chinese University of Hong Kong. A score of 26 in the best 5 DSE subjects, with compulsory maths extended modules. Ms Willow: Natural Sciences, with a focus on the biological sciences at the University of Cambridge. A grades in 3 science subjects at A Level; I did biology, chemistry and maths.

Mr MacDonald: Chemical Engineering at The University of Manchester. AAB at A Level.

Ms Joyce: Biomedical Sciences at University College London. Three A grades at A Level including biology and chemistry.

Ms Tina: Integrated Social and Cognitive Psychology at Jacobs University Bremen in Germany. High school GPA, SAT scores, and an application essay.

How did you prepare for your application? Ms Willow: I read some popular science books that were in line with my interests, and for about a year before the interview, I regularly read New Scientist magazine. I also did work experience in diﬀerent scientiﬁc settings, such as a hospital lab.

Mr Michael: I was prepared to talk about and analyse topics related to social, economic and ﬁnancial issues. Mr MacDonald: The best preparation was making sure that I was conﬁdent to talk about the topics I mentioned in my admission essay.

Ms Joyce: I kept up to date by reading scientiﬁc journals and learning about the latest research developments at UCL. I also joined a discussion group at my sixth-form college to make sure I was able to discuss my ideas from many perspectives.

Ms Tina: I prepared with my SAT scores, 5 AP subjects in biology, physics, calculus, psychology, and microeconomics. I also joined some social activities at NGOs and start-up companies.

What advice would you give to someone applying to these courses? Mr Michael: Risk Management Science blends mathematics, statistics, ﬁnance and programming together. It is deﬁnitely a rewarding subject, especially if you enjoy working with numbers.

Ms Willow: Look at the course modules in detail to make sure they match with your interests, and be able to speak passionately about those interests.

Mr MacDonald: Learn what you can about the subject before applying. You should show enthusiasm when discussing the parts you ﬁnd interesting.

Ms Joyce: Explore the options oﬀered in the course and modules and decide what appeals to you. Finally, do your research early on and look at the entry requirements long before you apply as it may aﬀect the A Levels you select. Ms Tina: Prepare well for both the academic and social activity applications.

What are some career paths for someone studying this course? Mr Michael: The majority of graduates become analysts in ﬁnance and the banking industry.

Ms Willow: Science subjects are great for any career as they teach a range of useful skills such as prediction and planning, writing clearly, and detailed analysis.

Mr MacDonald: People I studied with went on to work in food processing and production, the oil and gas industry and pharmaceuticals. Others went into automotive engineering and banking industries.

Ms Joyce: Graduates can go into many different areas like the healthcare industry, research and scientific journalism. Some even go on to work in management, finance or computer science.

Ms Tina: There are many different career paths depending on your interests. It’s important to explore different jobs and find what you like.

What did you learn during your course? Mr Michael: We were given a lot of opportunities to develop our programming skills to deal with large amounts of information and complicated models.

Mr MacDonald: The most important thing I learnt at university was the ability to think like an engineer. That is the ability to analyse a problem and find a solution which fits the parameters. I find this skill very useful in many areas of life.

Ms Tina:Psychology is quite a challenging subject, but it teaches you to think independently and to use the theory and skills in the real world.

What skills did you learn? Ms Willow: I developed analytical and writing skills by taking a module in History and Philosophy of Medicine. Rather than doing a practical project in my ﬁnal year, I completed a thesis on curiosity culture in Renaissance Europe. This led me to a master’s in Creative Writing, which set me on the path to developing publications for i-Learner.

Ms Joyce: During my studies, I learnt a range of skills, such as laboratory research and critical thinking. In my ﬁnal year, I did a research project for which I had to design and conduct an experiment. After completing this, I also had to submit and present a dissertation, which improved my written communication, presentation and analytical skills.

Our Overseas Education Services provides student support throughout the entire process of applications to schools abroad. Find more information in our latest webinars. Our guest speakers provide insight into preparation for studying abroad and choosing the right schools. 15

中國的古老智慧̶̶活字印刷術

/王雪儀

現代工業和科技發展日新月異，許多傳統的工藝和技術漸漸被取代，消逝在歷史長河中，「活字印刷術」便是其中之一。在印刷早已不局限於文字的今天，我們不妨回望過去，認識這種古老卻精妙的印刷技術，一瞥千年前的創意之光。

書籍作為人類文明的載體，有著悠久的歷史，然而，世界上最早的機械印刷技術距今不過幾百年。此前，人們大多以抄寫的方式記錄文字，很多書籍僅有幾本，一旦紙張破損便要再抄寫一次；若是不小心遺失書本，便再難複製。後來，人們開始運用雕版印刷術，先將文章逐字雕刻在木板上，再塗上墨水，轉印到紙上。雕版印刷術比抄寫效率高，亦能以木板的形式保存原稿，就算遺失書籍也能再印刷。不過，在木板上雕刻原稿的工作繁瑣費時，還需高度專注，一旦刻錯一筆，整塊雕版便不能用，須另外重刻一塊，實在是吃力不討好。

宋慶曆年間（1040-1048），有位名叫畢昇的刻版工。他想到了一個好辦法——在雕版印刷的基礎上，發明了活字印刷術。活字印刷術最大的創新是「一字一印」。畢昇將黏土捏成小泥塊，在上面刻字，每個泥塊只刻一個字，刻好字後用火將其燒硬，便成了活字。待文章所需的活字全部製作完成，便開始排版。先取一塊鐵板，在上面鋪一層鬆脂蠟，再將一顆顆活字依次排列在鐵板上，加熱鐵板至鬆脂蠟融化，用另一塊板壓平活字，待鬆脂蠟冷卻，活字便牢牢地固定在鐵板上，可以像雕版一樣印刷了。活字印刷術既方便又靈活。在泥塊上刻字可以隨意修改，不必再因刻錯一筆而前功盡棄。燒製好的活字還可以重複使用，只需改變活字排列組合的方式，就能拼湊出不同的文章。這樣一來，只要提前準備好常用的活字，正式印刷時便能省下大量時間，無論印刷多少本書，都易如反掌。

畢昇發明的活字印刷術大大提升了印刷書籍的效率，同時期的科學家沈括得知後，為之讚歎不已。後來畢昇逝世，沈括的門客將他留下的活字妥善收藏。沈括亦將活字印刷術的原理和步驟一一記錄在自己的著作 ——《夢溪筆談》中，供後人賞讀。沈括其人博覽群書，是著名的飽學之士，他還在《夢溪筆談》中記錄了許多當時科學技術的先進成就，涉及天文、數學、物理、地理等範疇。作為在現代科技圍繞中成長的新一代，我們也可以從中領略古人的智慧，感悟科學發展為人類文明帶來的貢獻。

甚麼是中國的四大發明？

造紙術

指南針

火藥

印刷術

用樹皮等常見材料，取

早在春秋戰國時期，中

火藥的起源，最早甚至

據載，北宋時期畢昇發

代了之前傳統但更昂貴

國古書中已記載製造磁

可以追溯至秦朝，並在

明了膠泥活字印刷術，

的竹簡、帛書，從而能

鐵的原理。到了宋朝，

宋朝年間較廣泛運用在

且被認為是世界上最早

大規模造出低廉的紙，

人們已開始將人造磁鐵

軍事用途，彌補戰鬥力

的活字印刷技術。和造

有助知識的保存和資訊

用於指南。到了元朝，

不及金人的劣勢。在實

紙術一樣，印刷術對知

的流通。相傳由東漢時

指南針已是人們航海最

用性火器的使用上，中

識的保存和資訊的流通

代的宦官蔡倫所發明。

重要的儀器。

國先於歐洲五個世紀左

有深刻影響。

右。

愛上語文班

在「愛上語文班」，我們會和同學們一起走進中文的世界，在不同的書本中流浪，從中學得一手流利的中文。「愛上語文班」旨在讓學生在提高語文能力的同時，培養對語文的興趣。在幼兒階段，課程通過唱誦兒歌、朗誦童詩、閱讀故事和遊戲等方式，幫助學生提高詞彙量、掌握基本的語文知識，並獲取中文閱讀的語感。

文言文與寫作班

不少學生視文言文為洪水猛獸，苦思入門之法而不得。本課程正希望鞏固學生的文言基礎，搭建學習文言文的橋樑。本課程以每級十二課的方式，藉精選之經典篇章滲透必備的文言知識和文化常識，幫助學生閱讀文言文時更有系統和技巧性，使學生能夠： ● 增加文言實詞和虛詞量，精確翻譯文言字詞；

在小學階段，通過豐富有趣的繪本、故事、少年小說等類型的篇章，提升學生的閱讀能力，培養學生的閱讀興趣。小學四級以上的課程會加入古詩和文言篇目，幫助學生熟悉古漢語，為未來的學習打下良好的基礎。

● 了解文言句法； ● 掌握直譯文言句子的技巧； ● 辨識古文常見寫作手法和篇章結構； ● 掌握分析技巧和閱讀策略； ● 理解中國古哲先賢之思想； ● 練習考試常見題型；

在中學階段（中一至中三），帶同學在日常中熟悉考試的模式。我們也會挑選古今中外的經典名篇，延續文化熏陶，培養學生對語文的興趣。

● 將文言文與日常傳意連繫，提高學習的樂趣。

*中五中六之十二課為DSE範文 17

STE

Re a d i ng We Re Book title: Human Body! Author / Publisher: Dorling Kindersley / Smithsonian Institution Suitable for: S1-6 Ms Alison Ms Alison likes reading interesting facts about living creatures to discuss with her students.

What is this book about? How is it connected to STEAM? This book is a simple version of an Encyclopedia of the human body. With computer-generated 3D imagery and interesting facts, the anatomy and the physiology of the body are explained in a friendly way. It is a good reference book on Biology and also includes some aspects of technology, such as DNA extraction and crime fighting. Why do I enjoy it? This book is beautifully designed with short texts and a writing style that is easy to understand - even when reading about complicated parts of the human body. It also offers flexible reading as readers can access the information that interests them most and it is not necessary to read from the beginning. Who would like this book? Anyone who is interested in Biology and discovering the human body will find this book useful.

Book title: Knights and Castles Author / Publisher: DK Eyewitness Suitable for: P1-6 Mr Jamez Mr Jamez has a keen interest in history, believing that through history lies the future. That's also why his students ﬁnd him frequently searching through history in reference to their questions.

What is this book about? How is it connected to STEAM? Knights and Castles is a book about the history of castles. Read and learn about the turrets (towers), the knights and their shining armour and how these relate to castles. It is especially interesting to learn how mathematics, engineering and science were an important part of daily life in the past. Why do I enjoy it? Children enjoy big and shiny things. Castles and knights are particularly interesting to them. I ﬁrst picked up the book because of its illustrations, which helped me to understand and develop a further interest in the subject. Who would like this book? For people who see a bridge and a little voice in their head says, "we must walk across it," this book is a must- read. It's an added bonus for those who are fascinated by history.

Book title: You Are Awesome Author / Publisher: Matthew Syed Suitable for: P5-S2 Mr Rob Mr Rob enjoys books which encourage creative thinking and inspire us to take on new challenges.

What is this book about? How is it connected to STEAM? This book is a fantastic guide that helps students to work smarter and to feel conﬁdent. It doesn’t focus on learning a particular skill, but it teaches us that the way we think is important for our success in almost any area we choose. Why do I enjoy it? This book reminds me that belief and perseverance are so important to our progress. Remembering this can help us get through challenges to what we want to achieve and enjoy. Who would like this book? I think this book is particularly useful for students who are facing the challenges of moving to secondary school, or anyone who is worried about trying something new. I gave my niece a copy of this book when she was about 12...and created a monster!

nd Recommend 書名：

《昆蟲記》

作者：

（法）尚-亨利·法布爾

適合年齡： K1-S3 內容簡介：「昆蟲記」系列叢書中，法布爾根據一生對各類昆蟲的觀察與研究，描寫了昆蟲生活的方方面面，例如各種本能、習性、勞動、婚戀、

吳雪純老師

繁衍和死亡等，真實地記錄昆蟲世界之餘，也折射出人類社會文化。

吳雪純老師喜歡通過書籍，藉作者名家的眼睛

喜愛理由：這本書中，作者法布爾用詼諧幽默的語言，將昆蟲的世界描寫得十分

去看到我們所不知道的

動人，探索求真的精神在文字中體現得淋漓盡致。通過此書，不僅能大量擴充科學知識，也能在

世界。

書中感受到以及作者對於生命本身的關愛之情，和對自然萬物的讚美。推薦受眾：昆蟲記有很多版本，不同年齡段可閱讀不同版本。K1-P2的孩子可從繪本版看起，通過圖片和文字結合的方式，激發對於自然與閱讀的興趣；P3-S3的同學可以仔細閱讀文字版本。閱讀這本書，可以幫助孩子們建立對世界「萬物皆有靈」的敬畏感，培養孩子仔細觀察的能力，給予孩子良好的早期文學熏陶。

書名：

《老人與海》（The Old Man and the Sea）

作者：

（美）厄尼斯特·海明威

適合年齡： P3-S3

楊環老師

內容簡介：老漁夫聖地牙哥一連84天沒有釣到魚，仍不肯認輸，終於在第85天釣到一條大馬林魚。他戰鬥了兩天兩夜才殺死大魚，歸途又遇到許多

楊環老師在生氣時、孤單

鯊魚前來搶奪戰利品。他拚盡全力一一殺死牠們，可惜大魚已經被啃

時、煩惱時，都會選擇讀

得只剩一副魚骨頭。

書，因爲書總會爲她指點迷津。

喜愛理由：主人公聖地牙哥通過實際行動證明：人不是為失敗而生的。在生活中，挫折是必不可少的磨難，也許我們會因爲難題退縮，因爲成績落後氣餒，因爲考試煩惱。要學習主人公聖地牙哥的心態，學會把挫折當作磨練，做一個不怕困難，永不言敗的人！推薦受眾：《老人與海》讚頌了人類不屈的鬥志和勇氣，主題適用於各個年齡段，無論是小學、初中、高中、大學、成人，都值得一讀！

書名：

《巫言》

作者：

朱天文

適合年齡： S1-6 內容簡介：朱天文創造了一位可視為本人真實投射的敘事者，以「細胞轉型」、

謝熠壕老師謝熠壕老師對各處各地的文化都感興趣，更喜歡從不同

「煉金成瓷」等案例，將切身的台灣寫作經驗與亙古的巫術時刻連接於筆下的計算機Ｅ界。喜愛理由：作者在訪談中曾透露，這本書裏主要的寫作策略是「削去法」。她以

作者的文字世界觀察不同的

極簡削去一切敘事的骨肉，紀實的文字逃離現實世界的線性時間觀，幫助我們明白創作的本質，

生活態度。

及紀實世界的無常面貌。他日我們動筆寫作時，這可成為創作觀的參考。推薦受眾：我想把這本書推薦給覺得小說必須虛構、創作與理工科學無關的中學同學，你一定能從這本書中得到全新的閱讀體驗。

n r a e L s â€™ t e L utâ€Ś o b A

This series of books focuses on exciting STEAM topics. Read all about endangered species, food and nutrients, human bodies, different world cultures and plenty more.

Follow the curious bookworms as they learn about the world. This series offers lots of inspiration for students who love reading non-fiction books and learning.

Put Learning into Action This action-packed section includes instructions for simple and practical experiments, bringing learning to life inside your home.

Click here to download our book order form.

Or click here to shop online

The bookworms love to share their new knowledge with their human friends, Meg and Nick. Read about their discoveries in the fiction companion book. These two always have so much fun getting surprise packages and mail from their bookworm friends.

ong k W eet, c i d N Str To: eg anebula own, ries, M 1 N la T rito 3 ebu Ter ng N ew o N ong K H

書名

大尋寶倫詞與遜三速

斯話漂海國木

遊流童大演偶

記得育林義急

愛的教育格快

提示：也可以試試從下往上看！

特人文四賓迅

答案：

倫詞與遜三速

斯話漂海國木

遊流童大演偶

記得育林義急

愛的教育格快 22

老好西遊記魯

特人文四賓迅

P.23

老好西遊記魯

Bookworm Comic Bugbug唔知點解，人地果本喺好睇D!

嘻~

Twist點解你自己本書唔睇，睇人哋果本呀?

4 4

咁同你交換睇嘞!

Bookworm Game

Find 5 diﬀerences between these pictures from Let’s Learn About Hong Kong through Fiction, a Level 6 book from the Let’s Learn About series.

i-Learner Burns Term

News letter Newsletter F eb r ua r y 2 0 2 1

IELTS at at i-Learner

雅思備考課程 Course Highlights 課程簡介  Modules in all 4 papers 覆蓋閱讀、寫作、聆聽和說話四大部分  Individual assessment and performance analysis 個人評估和分析  Practical study and exam skills 實用考試竅門和應試策略  Mock test and review 全卷模擬測試

Class size 4-6 learners per class Duration - 12-lessons (crash course) - 24-lessons (full intensive course)

報名 Enrolment

專線 Hotline: 3113 8815 WhatsApp: 9049 3014

電郵 Email: ielts@i-learner.com.hk

網址 Website: http://www.i-learner.com.hk

Improve skills and boost confidence 掌握技巧、提升

Success for study, work or immigration 助你升學、升職、移民

Specialised Teaching Approach Vocabulary, grammar and writing focus: Making use of the stronger analytical abilities of adult learners and formulating shortcuts to learning English to boost exam grades. Blended learning: Utilising online courses to facilitate independent learning and increasing contact hours with English. Individualised lessons: Supervising individual learners to ensure promising progress.

Find more great articles packed with tips and techniques from our teaching team at: www.i-learner.edu.hk/category/steps-to-success/