Art: Slinkachu Art Works

 For a few weeks in art, we have been working on the works of Slinkachu an artist who uses small figurines to compose photographs. With everyday objects, with some modified, he creates scene throughout the city that he lives in, ranging from beaches and even streets. There were many meanings in works that he created more so with why he does so. We looked at his website into which we saw some information about him along with the statement earlier proposing why he does so. Encouraging empathy as the modern world can be quite busy, to live in, especially to the “tiny” people that resides within. We as a class have been tasked with using his ideas to create our own artworks. Which then ranged from after the researching sessions have ended. We then developed ideas into which turned into the works that we have created.  

Slinkachu- one of the works that caught my eye the most:

"Playfighting (Wandsworth Common, London, 2013)"

Completed works by me:

"Gambled"                                                                 "Vertigo?"

"Shoulders of Giants"

On the contrary of Slinkachu's work, from what I view from what I have completed is very different. Though indeed I used figurines and other normal objects I feel a sense of unfamiliarity. Suggestively and clearly this cannot be presented to in the outdoors in opposite to the works by Slinkachu. It also differs into that mundane feeling into the colours and tones that the pictures have been presented at. I have been quite fond of peculiar scenery as well as unusual artworks, books and items as well. I have been inspired so by these, including Alice in Wonderland. I have also taken inspiration for how and where I grew up. Where chess was played on the streets, card games during the wake of a dead. I see eggs in my imagination and mind a lot which is why I form such egg-like monstrosities, which have also been inspired by Humpty dumpty in a way.

"Gambled" was set to confuse the viewer, much like the two as well. But I wanted t to awe them as well with the seemingly anti-gravitational position of the board. In this, the egg-like creatures are to present our senses. In this particular even senses when playing a game that includes gambling, such as gambling a move in chess without much assurance. Though the creatures act like doubts and urge too. With what we want we tend to doubt; into which when we are overwhelmed we tend to lose our focus on what is important.

"Vertigo?"

This shot is very different from the others that I have taken into which it brings upon an entire mess. The other 2 with it does have mess though not as severe as this. It plays into our needs for stimulation. I have noticed, seen and experienced boredom, all of us have at some point. As it does we are driven into doing things that we have not done before. Boredom is extreme torture, that even pain would be preferred instead. With that in mind, I have created this work for the purpose of pain, the over-stimulating subjects elude from boredom but at a cost. Critically shall we think about our choices, what should we exchange for what we want, what is the cost?

"Shoulders of Giants"

This is the only shot in which "people" are present at. Among the seemingly gigantic pieces be that the chess pieces and the egg-like pieces; along the board people are on.  Whilst the pieces are designated at a singular square the people roam. They stand as being liberated. Problems tend to stay in your mind, just hanging, waiting to be faced. With such individuals as seen from the photos, they not only face their trials but seem to reside with them. When faced with a problem, people usually adjust and move around such but much like making a move in chess, it cannot be avoided. At some point, a move is to be made, shouldn't we not delay it? In by doing so, we move forward, in by doing so then we are closer in making a "checkmate".

HEC: Carrot Cake Cupcakes

Carrot Cake Cupcakes

Ingredients & Nutrients

• - 1c Flour
• -3/4 cup sugar
• - 1 t cinnamon
• - 1 t baking soda
• - 1/2 t baking powder
• - 1/4 t salt - Sodium
• - 1 1/2 c grated carrots - 
• - 2/3 c oil
• - 2 eggs, beaten

It was a relatively fast-paced lesson. With the reasoning of the muffins needing to be iced before serving. Most of the time was spent with the waiting for the muffins to cook/bake. The ingredients are collected--Mise En Place- and prepped. The dry ingredients without the addition of the carrot as well as the are collected inside a singular bowl.  The carrot is fully grated. After the prepping has finished the other wet ingredients with the carrot, the dry ingredients are then sifted onto of the liquid, after the mixture has been sifted the sugar is then added on top. As with cupcakes, the method of mixing is folding, making sure that it is not overmixed nor under-mixed though incorporated. The trays are set with paper cases then the mixture is scooped in. On a preheated oven of 180oC the tray is placed, the products are baked. After several minutes 8 or so the oven is changed to fan bake for a quicker time. The cupcake is then taken out after having tested with a skewer then cooled. After some moment the cupcakes are taken out on a rack to further cool. After cooling it is then iced then served.

The taste was quite pleasant. The carrots weren't very over-powering having a nice blend with the cake. The cupcakes were moist and had a soft texture. With how fine the carrots have been grated it did not interfere with the enjoyable feel of the cake in the mouth. The buttercream icing served as a good edition in further giving sweetness to the cupcake. Yet, for me, it was a little too sweet, it had too much element of a "pure" sugar per se. Though it was still delightful to consume and I have positivity in creating it again.

Digestive System - Hurumanu 2

 In this subject, we are to look at the digestive system of the body. Starting from the ingestion, from the mouth, teeth and saliva up the exit which is the anus. We look first at the teeth, with types such as the incisors, molars and canines. With that lesson as well we look at the type of animals that uses such types of teeth, at least primarily. Aside from that, we look at the organs in which we use to digest and absorb our foods. In combined with that we look at not only how we digest, ingest and egest but also nutritional needs of our bodies that are needed for us to survive. However, what we have created a DLO about are only the digestive system containing the organs, as well as the teeth.

EOTC Week: Cautionary (Jelly Park)

Before we head towards the EOTC week, an outdoor-based education in which we go out of school to other locations. In by doing so we then do activities such as surfing, wandering, art viewing. However, this time we focused on doing blogs that relate to what we will do during this week. Now specifically swimming, in this task, we are to create a poster in which warns us about the dangers of bodies of water as well as tips when encountering so. This is what I have finished.

https://docs.google.com/drawings/d/17n7Erq5aRNFlMGDCLid80Kqufnp8Q22_rcG2kIIqJCw/edit?usp=sharing

HEC: Savoury Muffins

 Savoury Muffins

Ingredients and Main Nutrient:

Eggs - Protein, iron, vitamins, minerals and fat.

Vegetable oil

Milk - Calcium, protein, iodine, potassium, phosphorus and vitamins B2 and B12

Corn - Vitamin C, iron, vitamin B-6, magnesium,

Cheese Calcium, Fat, Protein as well as Vitamin A, B 12.

Spinach - Vitamin A and K, manganese, folate, copper, vitamin B2

Tomatoes - Vitamin C, folate, potassium and vitamin K.

White flour

Wholemeal flour

Baking powder 

With this recipe, it is still relatively quite simplistic in nature. After the Mise En Place, which requires the spinach to be blanched the chopped. The rest does not need much preparations except for the tomatoes taken the inside juices off as well as for the cheese grated. After doing so two eggs are cracked and mixed with the rest of the wet ingredients in a bowl. The cheese is added then the spinach and tomatoes are folded in. On the separated bowl which contains the two flours and baking powder pour the mixture through a sieve and sift the mixture atop of the wet ingredients. Salt and pepper to taste, I suggest doing so as I believe that the cheese would not be enough to give enough satisfactory flavour to the dish. With the dry ingredients set on the top of the mixture, use the method of folding once more. Just like what has been done with the spinach and tomatoes. Fold the dry ingredients in whilst making sure that the mixture is not overmixed. Just do so until the mixture looked combined just enough.

On a mini muffin tray--sprayed with nonstick spray-- use two spoons one being a normal whilst the other a desert or a smaller spoon. Use the bigger spoon to scoop the mixture, with the smaller one to use as leverage, used to push the mixture inside of the tray. Then placed in a preheated oven of 180oC for around 10-12mins.

The taste and texture can be somehow compared to an omelette. Though it does have components in which it resembles bread. The taste is simplistic in nature, one of the reasons for this so is the vegetables that have been used. Spinach, corn, tomatoes do not possess a strong flavour. Mild is what it can be described as. Next, it could be that further flavourings can be used, lie adding an onion, preferably red, it cooks better and provides a stronger taste. Overall, it is a mild flavoured; it has a nice texture and does look pleasing.

HEC: Crispy Chicken Tacos

 Crispy Chicken Tacos

Ingredients and nutrients:

Chicken breast - Protein, Vitamin (B,D), Calcium, Iron, Zinc.

Carrots - Biotin, potassium, vitamin A, K1, B6 and Beta carotene.

Lettuce - Calcium, potassium, vitamin C and folate. 

Cheese - Calcium, fat and protein, vitamin A, B12, zinc, phosphorus and riboflavin.

Tortillas - Carbs, protein and fat.

Though this has also included, sour cream and salsa.

This was quite a straight forward, easy recipe that can be made within minutes. The preparation, Mise En Place is quite quick enough. Gather carrots, peel and grate. The lettuce shall be shredded, with the cheese grated also. The seasoning of the chicken is a taco mix, the chicken breasts which are cut into rectangular like sizes are mixed with oil and covered with the seasoning mix. Though necessarily it does not need to be perfect a rough estimate will be sufficient. In which doing so a baking tray is prepared and lined with baking paper. The chicken is then laid onto the tray and placed in the oven preheated in a temperature of 180 oC. The baking time should waver around 10 to 12 mins. After it has been so, still make sure and check that the chicken is cooked. 

Chicken and pork are dangerous when undercooked, the composition of pork and chicken makes it more the risk for parasitic worms. Unlike sashimi, sushi, medium-rare beef, etc.

When the chicken has been checked to be cooked the tortilla is heated in the microwave, though other alternatives are such as a pan, oven or even direct fire. After they are to temperature, build up the taco, the chicken first then the rest of the ingredients with the condiments, sour cream and salsa last.

It was quite a simple yet delicious taste. The blend of the vegetables neutralizes the overpowering taste of the chicken and provided freshness. The salsa provided a needed moisture with the sour cream as well. 

Though it can still be improved upon, additional red onions would have given it a nice kick. Being a fan of 'spice' as well I would've liked a couple of chillis inside. The chicken could've had a much better crunch if it were fried as well. Still, it was a pleasant dish, which I would recommend to do again.

Health: Dicovery Project

 For the past few weeks in health, we have been looking at topics that relate onto it that is of our own choice. We begin trying to discover at the certain parts of health that we would like to deeper understand. There were many topics that came to mind but what stood out was mental wellbeing for me, especially mental disorders. I have been long fascinated with how the mind works, how complex and how it can affect our lives. With the mental wellbeing, there were many that I wanted to pick such as the Troxler effect. Which when staring at a singular point for a long time can result in fading and morphing. But the most interesting place where it can take effect however is in the mirror. Look at a singular point in the mirror, without averting your eyes for 10 mins. When the Troxler effects kicks in, demonic, monstrous images can be seen the mouth, eyes, nose getting bigger and or even someone staring at you from behind. It is an eerie phenomenon and a creepy one at that. But, simultaneously, it is entertaining and interesting.

However, that is not the topic that I chose, instead, it is one that I have been more fascinated at for much longer than the Troxler effect. Psychopathy and sociopathy, for years now I have been in wonder of both of these mental disorders. Watching documentaries, reading books and trying to understand the concept. Primarily with psychopathy, I became interested so by my love for crime and gore. There were many serial killers that have been classified as a psychopath. One of the cases I was interested in the most was the case of  Richard Kuklinski the famous "Iceman"; named as he would freeze his victims to disguise the time of death. Watching a documentary that speaks with the man about what he has done. He has shown no empathy nor sympathy as he talks about what he does. However, it is to point out that his victims were not random rather they were people that have wronged him and his group; as well as he has been paid or ordered to do so. Though that does not at all take away from what he has done. It may be generalized that when psychopaths speak of the wrong that they have done, they would brag, laugh and mock their victims. Yet, that was not the case in this, showing that not all psychopaths are alike.

Sociopathy, however, is not a topic that I dwelled deeper into as psychopathy. I have been introduced to this much later and by the form of Sherlock Holmes. 'Sherlock' a British crime television series feature Benedict Cumberpatch. In one episode of the series, he talked about him not being "psychopath" as called by Dr Watson but instead explains, and I quote "I'm a high-functioning sociopath. Do your research.". This introduced me to a whole world of anti-social disorders. By researching and understanding for a couple of years I have come to the conclusion of doing this topic as my project. 

What I have done so for this project was essentially an essay for informing of both about the earlier mentioned mental disorders. For this such was written: Mental Disorder. With that as well, I have written a poem.

Long enough till I realised staring at the abyss. 

Nothingness is seen, no something, rather, something nothing.

Home is solitary, window a jar, with door dehisce. 

As though the house agape, inviting, it is not trusting.

But through its charm I was lusted, looking for what I wanted.

Unbeknownst to me, however, I began to be hunted. 

For the crave that I looked for, I was presented with terror.

Rushing deep and running heap what I saw wasn’t an error.

For what I felt during the glimpse I found that it was a sphinx.

An empty shell no face at all, a deep dark hole only sole.

Yet though I still wonder, was it here or was it yonder?

The lonesome house grazed with thunder, a place where I wander.

Though with much that’ ve happened I am gravel, unravel.

Inquire, pray tell, unfold, expound, what is it that I’ve found?
But I’m sure that t’ was grave, because of the horror it gave.

No warmth, no light, no orth, nor right, as to caress it spite.

Peculiar, much more eccentric, the thought is’ ry hectic.

No thought is thought with all that I have thought I thought I thought.

The spheres could see, the sight bearer, with abode it’s wearer.

Riveted they were, on the figure. Some, getting bigger.

They gawked at the seeming abyss, the air for it to kiss.

Though, they’re views, conviction amiss, as ‘it’ was just a myst.

For sight cannot determine what’s inside, even if tried…

The holes the next, speaking much vex, munching on much hex.

They speak the figure, configure, talk such to transfigure.

Gob the movement, not the amusement, as it’s imprudent.

Upon their motion, the words came flooding down the ocean.

Dragging it further through the void wanted to avoid.

Why it has happened so and how long ago, that I don’t know.

It breaks the soul if thought what it was once so, has now done’ go.

If and what if, it had been, not what is has been, what be.

Be, so and so, wouldn’t it grow, would it change what it show?

Mentanation, attention it need, before it concede.

I can only guess what was done to it so, pure sorrow.

Neglect, direct, dilemma that then prolonged caused trauma.

Problem, being between the devil and deep blue sea.

Help is needed a clear aid to those that have conceded.

After all such experience have now only realised.

The pain of the agonized, how they’re criticized.

Through their darkness let us be light and through their blindness let us be sight.

After doing so I have finally created a piece of artwork that takes from the poem that I made.

The work is to be viewed from a further distance a couple of metres away. It was quite an abstract and an unusual art style that I have done so for this piece. I took inspiration from Yuko Tatsushima, Jungi Ito, Kim Jungi and Zdzislaw Beksinski mainly. The seemingly awkward positioning of the figure on the left suggests almost non-human-like. With that comes to the proportion of both hands as well, that does not fit the body, suggesting that it is not his. The overstretched face which seems like a mask makes it uncanny to the viewer. The colour scheme mainly blue depicts the horror of the colour.

Blue may be a favourite colour for many, having a cool, pleasing tone to the eyes. However, as we see through history, blue many not be what it seems. Through the horrors of the holocaust, we can trace where this sinister colour comes from. The poison gas which was inserted in the chambers that killed thousands and hundreds of thousands of people was cyanide. But over time, when mixed with the many elements that come from the atmosphere changes into a tone of blue. Implemented with this art, we can see the progression of the blue that comes and surrounds the figure. It represents the suffocation from having this certain disorder. 

The other elements present such as the faces, eyes, mouths and the hands are the unjust societal views on this topic. We tend to judge and misunderstands many of what psychopathy and sociopathy. We look down on the person as having an evil view. We perceive them as a menace. However, if we can only see, like how the figure stares back at the viewer. We need to stare back ourselves as well, should we be more understanding, what should we change, what can we change?

Humanu 2 - Film Sudy : Coraline

 In continuation of analyzing the film. We start to dig deeper into understanding the characters within the story. Having the knowledge of what they faced and how they have reacted with their problems. Each of the characters introduced has had at least momentarily presented a personal problem about themselves or those who are around them. My interest in the characters varied but there were two that I quite liked to be that character design or their interesting personality. Those being Mr Bobinsky and Other mother. We were presented with the task of completing a chart in which explains their hardship and how they reacted, as well as what it makes them to be.

Task: 

What am I learning?

Currently, I am learning to understand certain characters in Coraline, what they face, their personal problems, how they react and what their reactions show them to be.

How does this work show my learning?

This work shows my learning in the method of a slideshow, the written work shows what I have understood so far in determining their characters.

What am I wondering?

With my current thoughts, I am wondering about their youths, the other mother as well as how Mr Bobinsky was when younger.

HEC: Smoothies Evaluation

Smoothies Evaluation

Ingredients and nutrients:

• Milk - Calcium, protein, iodine, potassium, phosphorus, vitamin B2 and B12 as well as zinc.
• Mango - Fibre, vitamin A and C, folate, B6, iron, little calcium, zinc and vitamin E.
• Banana - Vitamin B6 and B12, magnesium, potassium, fibre and protein.
• Weetbix - Wholegrain, iron, vitamin B1,B2,B3 and fibre. 

The main focus of the practical lesson that was completed this week was not the making itself; instead the evaluation and testing of other products. Each group were given a choice into picking a recipe that they would like to create. Several recipes were laid, all are in the making of smoothie. The recipe that we have chosen in all the variety of choices was the Tango Mango, containing mango, banana and weetbix. Mise en Place was done and quite quickly it was blended. The mango was from a can and so the juices were drained. The banana was peeled and cut into much smaller pieces to quicken the process and lessen the risk of having big chunks. The weetbix was crushed simply by hand. All of the ingredients were placed inside and blended into a nice smooth texture. We figured that it was too thick and so we added some of the mango juice just balance it out.  After doing so we were to serve and move around with a small cup to taste the other smoothies.

The evaluation:

Tango Mango: It wasn't completely smooth, it was thicker than a 'normal' smoothie, the weetbix wasn't helpful. It had a blend of mango and banana has a very fruity taste, having a whisp of sourness. It wasn't the best, it had a less than mediocre taste, what's more, it had an unpleasant after taste of the chalkiness of the banana.

Banana and mango: Though called banana and mango as I was informed it had quite a number of berries. It was quite gritty given the seeds, even so, the mixture itself without it would've been thin. The sourness was quite overpowering, no real flavour aside can be tasted. The "natural" taste of the berries, mango and banana were overshadowed.

Frozen fruit yoghurt: Simply the majority of the taste comes from the yoghurt. The other ingredients are that the fruits did give a slight hint of flavour. I would have preferred if it had bigger chunks of fruits. his would have enhanced and balance out the flavour and texture.

Super Berry: How this was concocted made it very unpleasant, repulsing even. If one to imagine eating a hand full of sand would describe the texture that I have felt during the consumption. It was the most sour mixture surpassing that of the 'Banana and Mango'. So much so that it was almost bitter. I cannot think of a way can be improved except for trying another recipe.

Chocolate Banana: This was one of the recipes that was actually pleasing. It had a sweet blend of banana and chocolate. It had a nice texture for a smoothie, neither too thin nor thick. Surprisingly it didn't have the chalkiness of the banana which was present in the 'Tango Mango'.

Banana Icecream: The mixture almost resembled ice cream, at least texture-wise. It was creamy and did not possess much sourness. It was quite sweet, which I liked and it went in quite smoothly as well. Yet, much as what happened in the 'Tango Mango' it had the chalky after taste, lowering the likeness that I had for the recipe.

For every one of these recipes, there is one thing in common that I did not like. Solely that is the temperature. With many types of dishes, one of the most important factors is the temperature that they are served in. Having the right temperature, it can make the dish shine. If not it can make the experience underwhelming and bad. If indeed these were implemented with the right temperature, it could have improved my views on them. Though smoothies can indeed be "warm" per se, I still feel as if the certain recipes that I have tasted would've been better being colder.

Hurumanu 2: Film Study 'Caroline'

Following what we have learnt so far. Being that the lighting, atmosphere, colour and music, we have now looked and analysed the plot of Caroline. In by doing so, we have successfully created a timeline in which we can show to demonstrate what we have understood from the story, characters and some of the changes that occur throughout the film. As a class, we were to construct an overall time-line in which we can use as a foundation to make our own show our personal understanding.

The task:

Timeline:

Made with Visme Infographic Maker

What am I learning?

The current learning that I am doing is to learn how to analyse a plot. In addition to that, I am also learning how this can be represented in a timeline.

How does this show my learning?

The DLO--timeline-- that I have manufactured shows the thoughts and understanding about what happens through the movie. Where the correlation between the plot and characters affects each other.

What am I wondering as a result of this learning?

I am wondering what other details Caroline has that goes unnoticed, within those details what do they mean?

Hurumanu 2: Science - Heart Dissection

What have we been learning about?

"This heart dissection really sums up most of what we have been learning. The circulatory system relates to the blood which relates to the heart, the respiration system. Everything connects together because they all lead to the heart, that why this heart dissection is important. The first thing we learned about, mainly relates to the blood was the circulatory system. It is a system that spreads or permits the blood to circulate within the body. This is to make sure the blood along with its nutirients and minerals is successfully able to transport  all over the body. If we don't have a circulatory system our blood wouldn't be able to transport the nutrients our body needs. This is because of gravity, our blood would just be at the bottom of our body. 

We had also learned about the parts of the heart, as you probably know on a diagram you usually see red and blue veins. The blue veins [represents] carrying deoxygenated blood and the red veins are carrying oxygenated blood.

On the right side of the heart is where the deoxygenated blood needs to go through. It has less muscle because it only needs to get through to the lungs to get oxygen. Then it will come back to the heart as oxygenated blood, to be put on the left side the being pushed throughout the whole body. This is why the right side only has a little amount of muscle because the lungs are very close to the heart. On the other hand, the left side of the heart needs more muscle to push the blood throughout the whole body. "

Why are we dissecting a heart?

We dissected the heart because of our views about the heart. So far we have only looked at diagrams, which can vary and be different from what a real heart would look like. Being able to analyse such would be beneficial in our knowledge abut the heart.

What are the parts of the heart? did you see them?

Most of the hearts that were given to us to dissect did not have the atrium, the tubes. This was because how the hearts were butchered, when butchering the heart the usual process is to take the atrium out and leave with only the ventricles. Ours was a special case in that the tube from the atriums were able to be viewed. Two tubes connected into the ventricles. We then analysed the thickeness of the parts of the heart. In doing so, we were able to distingush the right from the left ventricle. The left ventricle was sgnificantly thicker as it has to work into pumping the blood around the body. Whilst the right only pumps to the lungs. The valve was seen as well, it is used to separating the oxygenated and deoxygenated blood. To successfully do that it would need to be strong as well as thick. The veins and the arteries were able to be seen as well, with the veins bringing back the blood to the heart as well as the arteries [Aorta] transporting the blood to the body.

Did you enjoy the dissection? why/why not?

I very much enjoyed the activity of dissection as it gave me and my peers experience. I enjoy being able to "dissassemble" parts of a whole. This would make it so that we can understand not only what the subject is but what it contains. 

Here is a short clip of our hard dissection. (it is muted as there was a lot of background noises)

Hurumanu 1: Sustainability: Resources

 After several weeks of learning we come into one of the bigger tasks. The task being to create an essay to state a part of sustainability that you are passionate about. In this I choose combining the suatainability specifically Climate Change as well as Politics. How they connect and the problem that comes along with it. The focus of my essay it to more or less debunk the statements that have been said by arront politicians who choose to believe that Climate Change is a hoax. It covers the mainly American politicians and what tehy have said over the years and providing evidences disproving of their beliefs. 

Climate Change and Politics

Climate change and politics have come hand to hand within the several decades. Media has also been a part of the persisting debate over climate change and global warming. Which brawls over the validity of climate change if it is a fact or a myth? Long ago the idea of climate change was introduced. In the years of the 19th century, several scientists have recognised that with the gases that are produced and stays in the atmosphere causes an effect. The effect was dubbed as a ‘greenhouse effect’, it is an action that affects the planet’s temperature. However, even of its age significant changes have been only made within the current years.

The beginning of industrialisation was also the beginning of the substantial changes within our atmosphere. Going in detail, a French physicist named Joseph Fourier discovered and described the Earth’s natural ‘greenhouse effect’. Writing,  "The temperature [of the Earth] can be augmented by the interposition of the atmosphere, because heat in the state of light finds less resistance in penetrating the air, than in re-passing into the air when converted into non-luminous heat." Furthermore, around 4 decades after, an Irish physicist by the name of John Tyndall theorised and explained how certain gases create the same effect as well. As quoted "This aqueous vapour is a blanket more necessary to the vegetable life of England than clothing is to man."

Within the following years and decades after such research, additional information and proof that ‘Global Warming’ has been happening. After 5 decades of thorough research that involves the involvement of humans to such effect, in the year of 2013 an assessment report states of scientists having 95% certainty that humans are the major cause of global warming since the 1950s. 

Still, with all the abundance of evidence that shows this, there are still many that persist against this. Though the numbers alone are not something that is worrisome but their power over the society is what puts the world in danger. Beliefs are acceptable as long as they do not affect civilisation negatively. Especially those who hold power in society, politicians. 

Often such individuals are addressed as having a high knowledge within many topics that involves the safety of the nation. Yet still, it cannot be said that there aren’t those who are vacuous. Politicians-who leads our government- with some being fully eccentric without a sense of common. Rationally, with all the evidence that points into the authenticity of Global Warming, we believe that it is so. We don’t even have to believe it as it is a fact, not something that is trivial. Natheless, many have the audacity to state that it is entirely false, as quoted "The greatest hoax I think that has been around for many, many years if not hundreds of years has been this hoax on the environment and global warming"” - Ron Paul (Former U.S representative, presidential candidate on 1988, 2008 and 2012.)

This is in fact fictitious and faulty, let us look at why this is so. Many have pointed out that Climate Change is not real for the reasoning that it is not warm or hot on given times. With even the current president of the United States of America, Donald J. Trump said "Record low temperatures and massive amounts of snow. Where the hell is GLOBAL WARMING?". 

Though the term Global warming is truthful and is used, Climate Change is a much more common term as it covers that “problem”. The effects that Global warming or Climate change has on our planet is not a singular effect. It is not something that when given action will have an opposite reaction. It is much more and numerously further complex than that.

The rise of temperature does not only affect the temperature itself but also other factors that build onto it. The knock-back effects. It is important that before we discuss the difference between weather and climate. Most often this is what confuses many about this global problem. Climate is the average weather pattern that occurs through the weeks, months and years. Within such weather, which are the climate regions, it is the day to day temperature, precipitation, air pressure, and so on, the daily variations.

When mentioning Global Warming it is not only the immediate variation that we should take note of but as well as how on average patterns throughout the weeks and months.

In regards to the cooling that Donald J. Trump has mentioned. North America in which he had resided may have experienced the coldness of the Arctic air; the rest of the world did not, but instead experienced abnormally hot weather. What needs to be mentioned as well that cold air produced by the Arctic does not mean that it is not warming. But instead, the abnormal cool is caused by the ever unstabling of the polar vortex that brings such air.

Not only does it cause abnormal high and low temperatures, it also affects the intensity of natural disasters like storms, heatwaves and droughts. Typhoons and hurricanes have also started to move slower,  vigorous and take more time to die down.

Within our knowledge and acquired data a study has shown that in a span of 39 years, we have found evidence that proves this. It has been entirely validated that in all of the 39 years of research significant changes by means of higher temperatures have been recorded. And in those years it included 8 out of the 10 most warmest ever recorded.

"... The science is not settled, and the science is actually going the other way." -Joe Barton (Former U.S houses). When talking about such science let us view statements that have been stated by renowned great scientists of our era. “We are close to the tipping point where global warming becomes irreversible” - Stephen Hawking. By this simple cautionary statement, we can suggest that not only the great scientist Stephen Hawking not only believes in Climate change but also its effects. Another such individual is the world-renowned scientist Neil De Grass Tyson. Which he also regarded that it is not the planet that we are to save, it is life. As pointed out, he states that Earth has survived billions of years in which conditions were much harsher. Surviving more in the future does not pose much of a problem. However, what is to be said by this is that life may not survive this, at least the majority, the ever-rising temperatures could be the downfall of the living things. Though, over thousands and millions of years after, it surely will be able to form a new environment. Time will pass on and nothing but a trace will be left.

Further evidence may be needed [to believe that scientist agrees on this idea] to “prove” the point. Hence it shall be given so, on a study conducted, 97% of publishing scientists have agreed that human’s extreme activities have been very highly likely to be the main cause of it.  Sceptics might wonder “What the 3%? doesn’t that prove something?”. 

Let us think of this in another light, if say there was a murder that occurred and 100 people have witnessed. 97 of the witnesses state that the killer was so and so; but the other 3 disagrees, which would you believe more? In the judiciary system, this would prove significant evidence in an innocence of a person. Additionally, many graphs and studies by groups from several different countries have come up with very similar findings. Proving the effects that humans had and the effects that Climate change will have.

Many solutions come with this global issue. From the types of sources of energy that we take from such as changing nuclear power, wind, solar, etc. The reduction of pollution, from recycling, reducing and reusing. From environmental, social and economical sustainability and the many undertakings that we can do to fix Climate Change. Nonetheless, what I believe are the main solutions into this critical problem is mindset and unity. The states of the matter has been affirmed, accepting the fact that the change is indeed verified is the movement that we need to advance. More so, the bigger authority coming to a truthful and accurate decision is essential for this matter. As has been discussed there are many with the power of government who had believed in a false statement in regards to global warming. Going as far as to even disprove very highly of this important matter. The actions that they take to do so influence others therefore increasing the amount of inaccurate and fictitious depictions.

After this has been done so, only then can we truly unite. Having the formation of unity makes the foundation for a major and lasting change that will benefit humans but also life on Earth as well.

Life as we know it may not survive further effects of the ever-increasing temperatures; the paramount changes in weather that affects the environment and those that reside within. Believing in your own beliefs and values is important and acting upon those is even more so. In spite of that limits should be implemented. Knowing the restrictions and limitations should be realised personally. Boundaries should be executed. Acknowledging that personal opinions and the right morality may always match. Having knowledge of what can hurt society and well being of people and other living beings is fundamental in keeping a just and right union. We are to critically think, and understand what is truthful and not. Myths are what some may call it, yet still if this continues life might just become a legend.

References: 

https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2019/sep/18/perhaps-we-need-to-explain-climate-change-to-politicians-as-we-would-to-very-small-children

https://edition.cnn.com/2017/08/08/politics/trump-global-warming/index.html

https://skepticalscience.com/skepticquotes.php/debunking-climate-myths-from-politicians.html

https://climate.nasa.gov/evidence/\

https://www.wwf.org.uk/updates/10-myths-about-climate-change

https://www.thedenizen.co.nz/culture/the-climate-change-debate/

https://climatechange.procon.org/

https://issues.org/macdonald/

https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2019/sep/18/perhaps-we-need-to-explain-climate-change-to-politicians-as-we-would-to-very-small-children

https://www.livescience.com/climate-change-hurricanes-stronger.html

https://www.gfdl.noaa.gov/global-warming-and-hurricanes/

https://carbonliteracy.com/stephen-hawkings-outlook-on-climate-change/

PE: Gynastics

  What was my goal today? 

My personal goal was to learn more about gymnastics and improve at certain points like over by the beams as well as the parallel bars. I wanted to be able to stretch and enhance my physical activity in both tasks. Another is looking at other methods that I can do, such as excercises to help with stregthening my core. If done so, I would then be able to do activities much easier and be able to do more in the future.

What have I learnt?

I continued to improve my skills in the parallel bars. Doing teh excercises I was previously thought in the past lesson. I was able to do activities in a much frequent rate. In addition to that I was also able to perform the task/s more successfully. With teh beams however, I also made progress. It includes me being able to be more courageful on jumping, which made me quite more frightful before. Another activity that I tried was an horizontal bar, I made several successful turns, improving slightly every turn.

HEC: Rice paper Spring rolls

Rice Paper Spring Rolls

Ingredients:

Vermicelli - It contains; Carbs, Copper, Fiber, Zinc, Calories, Calcium, Iron and Magnesium.

Carrots - Biotin, potassium, vitamin A, K1, B6.

Capsicum - Vitamin A and C, Dietary Fibre, Vitamin E, B6 and Folate. 

Cucumber - Vitamin K, Vitamin B and C, Copper, Phosphorus, Potassium and Magnesium.

Lettuce - Folate, Vitamin B, Vitamin K, Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Potassium, Calcium and Iron.    

Bean Sprouts - Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Calcium, Iron, Magnesium, Calories, Protein, Carbohydrates, Fiber, Potassium, and Sugar. 

The method is quite straight forward, after the Mise en Place the vegetables are prepped. With spring rolls we want the vegetables to act as a 'pillar' to the wrap. And so, they are cut in Jullines-- a method of cutting a food item into long, thin strips. When they are julienned they tend to hold the shape of a spring roll more than say, cutting them into cubes. That goes the same for cutting them into thicker shapes, it is also acceptable but it higher the risk of damaging the paper. Whilst the vegetables are prepped, the rice papers are soaked, dipped several times in a dish or a bowl of water. Warmer water can help the speed, process of softening the paper. Do not over soak or wet the paper, this results in an over-wet, paper that will be quite difficult to work with.

After such, the ingredients are placed atop of the paper, horizontally the vegetables are set. Making sure that the amount of ingredients that are placed on are not too much. Too much 'filling' will result in a paper that can't be folded and even ripped. Place the vegetables so that within the ends there is still space for a reasonable fold. After a good amount of filling has been put in, fold the over the ends of the vegetables on both sides. Then on the rice paper side, that is in front fold it over the vegetables and roll.

Serve with condiments of your choice.

The taste wasn't exemplary, it was very bland and uninteresting with its textures. It does provide counter textures from the softness of the wrap and the crunch from the raw vegetables. Though as mentioned before there isn't much taste nor flavour. I wouldn't like to make this again. Though if we are to discuss spring rolls (vegetable) there are more flavourful alternatives from my culture, like Lumpiang Togue (contained bean sprouts which we call touge, toe-geh)  and Lumpiang Hilaw. Which prove more stimulating factors, like taste, texture and feel.

PE Hurumanu 7: Gymnastics

 What was my goal today? 

My personal goal was to learn more about gymnastics and improve at certain points like over by the beams as well as the parallel bars. I wanted to be able to stretch and enhance my physical activity in both tasks.

What have I learnt?

With the parallel bars, I have learnt exercises in which I can do so that I can improve upon it. Having your elbows and arms straight while the shoulders relax to swing properly. The exercise includes lifting your body up using two hands in a position that resemble what is done with the parallel bars. Whilst in the beams I have improved my ability to jump over cones and have begun to do other tasks that are related to such.

Coraline: Colour and Lighting in the Worlds

 The difference between the colour of both of the worlds has contributed much to differentiate them from each other. The lighting that was used for the ‘real’ world at the beginning of the film was set into a colour theme that is quite dull. Dullness, it does not satisfy our views, nor does it satisfy what Coraline wants (as she is the only the real vibrant colour within the world). By doing so, we can infer quite quickly that the world that Coraline resides in is not the most inviting. The lighting was minimal, more so it was also cool. Including, grey, blue and pale. Many of the scenery was were also not very stimulating. At the very least it can stimulate the mind with its mysteriousness, yet, what should be given is that this place is not much for curiosity. The usage of such, the ‘Pink Palace’ the house should be one that will be something loved not by its mysterious, creepy, eerie feeling but a feeling of warmth and “home”.

The ‘other world,’ it felt, at least within the introduction, warm. The essence of lighting and colour was welcoming and inviting. Coraline fits in. It copies a feeling that is felt when we enter our houses and or places where we feel we belong. It feels very similar to home, it is somehow nostalgic. Not only does it feel very similar to home but also looks quite similar to many of the houses. The naturalistic lighting, which would’ve felt quite differently to a colour that was “blank” per se, like white. Natural colours--we tend to adore and enjoy such colour, feel at ease comfort whilst viewing them. A worth to mention the detail that adds to the feeling of home for Coraline was how the ‘other mother’ dressed. She copied how her real mother dress though more proper. This would then, later on, change quite dramatically.

As Coraline continued to enter and exit the other world she felt quite comfortable whilst doing so. But, the time matures and so does the intention shows. While Coraline continues to go back and forth the ‘other mother’s’ dress changes. It would then turn into skirts which got shorter, more grand and outlandish. At the scene that she was offered the buttons for eyes subsequent to refusing so, the feel and colour changes slightly. This would only get much sinister as the time passes. The lights began to look more artificial, brighter, more saturated lights. Which turns from the other end of the spectrum to the other. The warm colours began to mix with colder ones,  turning the lighting purple, still somehow inviting as it has an undertone of a warmer atmosphere. However, this soon transitions onto a very baleful green, a colour that is often viewed as the epitome of disgust. At the very climax of the film the colours ventures into the colour of black and white, a symbolism for the only two outcomes from the clash which we later know that it resulted in Coraline’s victory.

Finally, we come to the conclusion of the film. Where Coraline finally realises her misdeeds and how she wasn’t contempt. By realising so she begins to think differently about the world is more grateful and thankful for the things that she has in her life. This is shown through the then colours that the ‘Pink Palace’ changes into. Before such a scene we also see the garden, though may not be as better looking than the  ‘other world’s’ garden, it began as a new start for the characters. The characters also wore more vibrant colours, looking much proper than they were before. On the concluding shot, we see the ‘Pink Palace’, the dullness and the paleness of the colour that it was before changes. Almost as if it was cleaned, as if before a bad filter was implemented on it. The sky also changes, the grey overarching clouds were removed; revealing a blue clear sky. This comes as the resolution of how the lights have changed over the course of Coraline.

Leadership Programme: What makes a good Leader?

In the previous week, we were introduced into the learning about leadership. What we have started off with, however, was looking at what can or what is a good leader? What are their qualities and attributes? Leadership, it has been a major part in making and building our civilization. It has led us to what we are now. Through the leadership and taking part in many people, the contribution we have created the society that we have today. Many leaders have been successful in changing the world. Good leaders that is, however, there can be two definitions or a good leader.  One can define it as a successful leader, whilst the other can be described as a good-willed and kind. With that said, mad dictators in our history can be defined as a good leader as well within the first definition of course. They have been able to manipulate and arise to the status of a leader. However, that doesn't mean the latter, that they were kind, good-willed and or considerating. 

The types of 'Good Leaders' that we ought to admire are those who are compassionate and kind. Those who strive for greatness whilst being humble. There are many leaders that I can think of, however, there is one that I admire a lot.

She was a senator that I supported whilst she was alive, her name is Sen. Miriam Santiago Defensor. She was a tough, mind speaking but humble, kind and respectful to the people that she communicated with. Even being titled as the 'Iron Lady of Asia' she was not only direct but was also quite witty within her methods. She was for me, an inspirational and was one that was to be admired.

With doing so, we were provided with a task that involved us to record ourselves to what we think about a good leader and the characteristics that they would need.

Link Video

HEC: Steak Burger

Steak Burger 

Ingredients:

• Beef Schnitzel 
• Vegetable Oil
• Bread Rolls 
• Lettuce 
• Red Onion
• Cheese 
• Condiments

Mise En Place, the first to be completed as always. The placement and the prepping of ingredients before they are assembled and or cooked. In this relatively simple recipe, much of the prepping was for the vegetables, tomatoes, lettuce and onions. The tomatoes were cut into slices, quite thinly but still uniformed. The lettuce was roughly chopped, even shredded perhaps would suffice as well. First, after the Mise En Place has been completed, the stove was turned on and a pan was placed atop it. The pan was preheated for a few moments over medium-high before the oil was placed inside. Thereafter the oil was to bring up to the right temperature. Not much oil is needed, a tablespoon or so, a relatively good amount that is just enough for the Schnitzel. What we have done is not cut the Schnitzel but instead cooked it as a whole. We did so because with doing so it will have a mixture of texture. Rather than shredding the meat which will leave it with sure a quite a crispy texture; but will not contain a softer texture perhaps if done so.

The Schnitzel was seasoned and cooked for a few minutes, left in the pan until not only was it cooked but also with great colour. Caramelization from fat that is contained inside the meat. After the meat has cooked the sliced onions were placed into the pan. Why it was done so was to make the onions absorb the flavour from the beef and the "caramel" that was left in the pan. Similarly, the bread which was sliced was also heated and fried to absorb then not only the flavour of the beef but also the onions.

At last, was the assembly of the burger/sandwich. The bottom part of the bread was set and condiments were placed. Next was the meat which was seasoned once more, and was sliced accordingly; cheese, tomatoes were next, then finally the lettuce. More condiments were placed on top and the top bun was put on. The nutrients that the ingredients contained are as follows; Beef Schnitzel- Protein, fat, amino acids. Vegetable oil-- fat, cholesterol, saturated and monosaturated fatty acids. Bread rolls- calories, carbohydrates, fibre. Lettuce- Vitamin C,A,K; calcium, folate. Red onions- Fibre, sugar, carbs, protein. Cheese- Calcium, fat and protein. 

The meat has provided a great texture and taste, as the meat was seasoned before and after it was cooked it had a lot of flavours. The vegetables provided a fresh crunch and taste to the burger. While the cheese gave a sharp taste that brought all the ingredients together. The caramelized, fried onions released its sweetness and the bread which was fried prevented much of the condiments soaking into the bread and ruining the texture. The next step that I could think of is experimenting on the taste and the ingredients that are used. Many ingredients can be placed in this recipe as it is quite open. It is a good dish that can be altered quite nicely.

Hurumanu 2: Film Study

 Through the course of this hurumanu, with the part relative to film study, we have again commenced on a new task. In this task that has been completed, an explanation and paragraphs were to done to elucidate the shots and methods that were used to make Coraline. What was done was to create a SEXXY paragraph to show what we have analyzed in the screenshots that were provided. 3 shots were to be explained, detailed and understood. 

What is a SEXXY paragraph?

Step One-    For your Statement you need to state the technique you wish to discuss in relation to your image.  

Step Two-    Then you need to describe the Example for the reader (remember they may not have seen the movie so you need to give detail so 

                     they can follow your argument). 

Step Three- Then you need to Explain the PURPOSE this technique has on the viewer.

Step Four-   Then you need to Explain the EFFECT  this technique has on the viewer.

Step Five-    You can then link your ideas to your main argument, to another moment in the film  or to the wider context.

Link to the paragraphs:

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Z11p6ruckCmspaQVG_blw-N7FhsbmroZdIh-CQATrPw/edit?usp=sharing

What am I learning?

I am learning how the movie Coraline has used camera shots and cinematic methods to move the plot in an interesting and an exciting way.

How does this show my learning?

With the digital learning object that I have created, I have presented a work that functions as a tool that can be understood. It shows what I understood as a result of my learning and comtemplating upon the topic that was to be completed.

What am I wondering as a result of this learning?

The current wonderings that I have is what scene in the entire Coraline have I missed that I would consider to be the best shot, best frame?