Current Affairs (4BDE '21) by Nurril Hirfana https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv Use the template provided to share an article a week. Avoid repeating the articles posted by your friends. A sample can also be seen in the first column, below the template. en-us 2021-05-31 02:03:33 UTC 2026-01-12 04:00:46 UTC hello@padlet.com https://padlet.net/icons/png/1f9d0.png [Insert title of article] hirfananoor https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1572442814 [Insert link to article]

Summary of article:

Word Bank
[Insert 2 words to expand your vocabulary along with its definition]

Done by [INSERT NAME]]]> 2021-05-31 02:07:55 UTC https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1572442814 Floundering in digital wave, older hawkers could call it quits - taking a piece of Singapore with them hirfananoor https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1572449782 Older hawkers are left behind as they are unable to offer online services during the pandemic when many business shift to online sales and delivery services. Altered consumer habits affect these hawkers drastically.

Word Bank
Floundering : To be in serious difficulty
Weathering: To bear up against and come safely through
(e.g to weather a crisis / storm)

]]> 2021-05-31 02:11:40 UTC https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1572449782 Virus threatens Chinese traditions of chopsticks and family-style meals jingyucao706 https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1572596009 Summary of article
Due to the rising concerns over the acceleration of the spread of corona virus by sharing utensils  , the Chinese government is promoting the use of serving utensil when dining. However, such campaign has aroused resistance among Chinese civilians as sharing of food is one of their most ingrained traditions of indicating affection and respect.
Word Bank
heed :to pay attention to someone’s advice or warning
" heed the call"
"If she had only heeded my warnings, none of this would have happened ."
Integral :  forming a necessary part of something
"Vegetables are an integral part of our diet."
"integral to" -" Statistics are integral to scientific research."

Done by Jingyu 4D

]]> 2021-05-31 03:25:57 UTC https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1572596009 mandatory COVID-19 tests start for residents at Yishun, Hougang HDB blocks https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1576367239
https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/singapore/745-yishun-st-72-501-507-hougang-ave-8-covid-19-testing-14924150

summary
6 COVID cases have been identified at a block in Yishun, spread across two different families. subsequent wastewater testing found COVID-19 viral fragments in the block. testing is scheduled to take place today and tomorrow. 

wordbank 
1. damnation - condemnation to eternal punishment in hell.
2.fustigate - criticise harshly.

Dior 4D]]> 2021-06-01 14:08:24 UTC https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1576367239 Seniors who were hesitant among those who opt for walk-in jab https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1577906182 https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/health/seniors-who-were-hesitant-among-those-who-opt-for-walk-in-jab

PM Lee said on Monday those aged 60 and above can walk into any centre for a vaccination. Some who were once reluctant to take the jab did take it as it is made more convenient for them, and inoculation is even more important for the vulnerable groups.

Word bank:
1. inoculated-- to immunise, or vaccinate
2. testimony--declaration about truth; proof

Done by Isaac]]> 2021-06-02 00:09:22 UTC https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1577906182 Computers are not the best judge of our emotions https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1578152501 Emotion AI has been widely adopted in many areas to assess people’s emotion response, such as recruitment, advertising，law enforcement and security.  It can ensure efficient and effective public security and help people in need. However, it is not always as effective and efficient as we think. It sometimes ignores differences between cultures and even individuals, leading to discrimination. What’s more, a lack of legislative oversight may result in insecurity of people’s privacy. Hence, in terms of the utilisation of emotional AI, the right balance must be found.
https://www.ft.com/content/dffbc409-b611-49aa-a2a1-1f0164ebfe78
word bank
moratorium: a temporary prohibition of an activity.
disconcerting: causing one to feel unsettled.

done by yichun

]]> 2021-06-02 01:50:55 UTC https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1578152501 China allows three children in major policy shift https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1578637169 https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-china-57303592
Summary of article:
the Chinese government increased its original two children policy to three children policy when the two children policy failed to increase number of births. however this was faced with backlash from the Chinese public. some reasons include stressful work life and more Chinese women choosing to pursue their own careers instead of settling down to start a family.

Word Bank :
endowment: a quality or ability possessed or inherited by someone
endemic: (of a disease or condition) regularly found among particular people or in a certain area

Done by tze sun  ]]> 2021-06-02 05:50:31 UTC https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1578637169 Remains of 215 children found at former indigenous school site in Canada https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1578757186 https://www.reuters.com/world/americas/remains-215-children-found-former-indigenous-school-site-canada-2021-05-28/

summary : 
remains of 215 children were found at the site of former residential school for indigenous children with help of a ground penetrating radar specialist. some children were abused there. some even died while attending school. 

word bank : 
1. indigenous : originating or occurring naturally in a particular place; native.
2. genocide : deliberate killing of a large number of people from a particular nation or ethnic group with the aim of destroying that nation or group.

done by Charmaine ]]> 2021-06-02 06:50:58 UTC https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1578757186 Is bone-breaking surgery to grow taller worth the risk? https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1579083169 https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/cnainsider/bone-breaking-limb-lengthening-surgery-grow-taller-risk-india-14884022
Bone-breaking surgery for cosmetic reasons have risen in popularity in the recent years. These patients ,seeking an increase in height for cosmetic reasons, are not always rejected. Sometimes their desire for these surgeries could be due to dysfunctional thoughts. The article also explores a case in which one patient experiences a mishap during his bone breaking surgery which resulted in him undergoing 6 more surgeries until he could walk again.

Word bank
1)allegations- a claim or assertion that someone has done something illegal or wrong, typically one made without proof.
2)Cessation-the fact or process of ending or being brought to an end. (Cessation of hostilities)

By DAYAN TAN JIE AN ]]> 2021-06-02 10:06:25 UTC https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1579083169 https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1583072278 https://www.asiaone.com/asia/no-chickenjoy-jollibee-closes-philippines-outlet-after-woman-finds-fried-towel-meal

summary:
woman finds towel in jollibee chicken so jollibee closed.

wordbank:
essence- presence

shalom]]> 2021-06-03 16:44:24 UTC https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1583072278 Gaming may be used to help probationers learn about the impact of their crimes https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1584769539 https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/gaming-may-be-used-to-help-probationers-learn-about-the-impact-of-their-crimes

By allowing probationers to game, they will have to make more decisions based on real-life challenges. They will also be able to see the consequences of their actions and be more empathetic. This helps them to learn to not commit their crimes again. This article is supported by a research.

gamification: application of gaming in other activities
piloted: tested

Done by Emily ]]> 2021-06-04 07:53:17 UTC https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1584769539 Regular Caffeine Consumption – From Coffee, Cola, or Energy Drinks – Affects Brain Structure https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1584785964 https://scitechdaily.com/regular-caffeine-consumption-from-coffee-cola-or-energy-drinks-affects-brain-structure/

Summary:
  - Caffeine does not affect sleep, but does affect our brain by reducing the volume of gray matter temporarily if consumed regularly, however halting consumption will regenerate the lost gray matter

Word bank:
  - Placebo → A medicine given to patients to make them feel better without having any actual effect on the body
  - Abstinence → The avoidance of something enjoyable such as food or alcohol

Done by: Seng Hoi]]> 2021-06-04 08:06:44 UTC https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1584785964 history of the body positivity movement https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1584878660 https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/articles/z2w7dp3

summary:
everyones talking about body positivity nowadays, how we should love our bodies. the body positivity movement has been called out for "promoting obesity" by diet amd fitness companies but those companies also create unrealistic and unhealthy beauty standards. this article is how this movement has grown from originally being a place for plus sized people to get acceptance to now a place where all bodies are accepted no matter skinny fat tall short, everyone is beautiful just the way they are, and everyone has the right to choose what they want to do for their bodies.

word bank:
1) picketing: to protest
2) buzzphrase: a word or phrase, often an item of jargon, that is fashionable at a particular time or in a particular context.

by: marcus]]> 2021-06-04 09:32:03 UTC https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1584878660 Older hawkers struggle to press https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1584899807 https://www.todayonline.com/big-read/big-read-short-older-hawkers-struggle-press
 After last years circuit breaker, hawkers are finding it difficult to sustain business. Some major factors contributing to this problem is due to a change in consumer habits and the lack of exposure to technology. However,  Singaporeans have tried to help these hawkers using technology. for example, the  Telegram bot called @SaveTheHawkersBot, which helps match people who are physically buying food from the hawker centre with other consumers living nearby who are looking for someone to help them buy food from the same hawker centre as well.
word bank: 
patronage- the support given by a patron.
centralize-bring (activities or processes) together in one place
done by corliss]]> 2021-06-04 09:54:45 UTC https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1584899807 Impulse buying: Why some people can't stop shopping and how not to overspend https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1584944800 https://cnalifestyle.channelnewsasia.com/women/shopping-impulse-buying-how-to-stop-overspending-14924232

summary:
Impulse buying is an escape from life’s problems that provides us with a sense of comfort and thrill which can, however, cause financial problems that can be deemed dangerous. Thankfully, there are ways to prevent such misfortune from happening such as the precautions of keeping to a certain plan that maintains financial stability and more that are mentioned in this article.

word bank:
salve - soothe (wounded pride or one's conscience)
austere - severe or strict in manner or attitude

done by: pearlena
]]> 2021-06-04 10:42:22 UTC https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1584944800 Yemen fuel tanker could 'explode at any moment' https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1585005028 One of the most catastrophic oil spills is set to occur as the Yemen fuel vessel which has been holding an astounding 1.1 million barrels of oil is at grave risk of exploding around the war-torn coast of Yemen. The United Nations are yet to respond regarding this debacle but they have been urged to investigate and search for solutions to prevent disaster from striking. The floating storage platform has been neglected for little over 6 years and corrosion is starting to take place for good measure. If no one does anything about this , the world will experience a devastating impact which could have been prevented.

Word Bank

Debacle : a sudden and ignominious failure; a fiasco.

Continencies : a future event or circumstance which is possible but cannot be predicted with certainty.

done by : rehan]]> 2021-06-04 11:44:40 UTC https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1585005028 In Singapore, Talking About Death Is Taboo. But That’s Exactly Why We Should Do it https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1585126148 https://www.ricemedia.co/current-affairs-features-talking-about-death-taboo/

Singaporeans are keeping their loved one in the dark about their conditions as they find it too heavy a burden for them to bear.
the loved one can only wait as their time comes not knowing their conditions 

Word Bank
Comatose : relating to or in a state of coma.
"she had been comatose for seven months"
Prognosis : the likely course of a medical condition.
"the disease has a poor prognosis"  
Done by kang you
]]> 2021-06-04 12:55:44 UTC https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1585126148 Arctic sea ice thinning faster than expected, new study shows https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1585138219 https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/climatechange/arctic-sea-ice-thinning-faster-than-expected--new-study-shows-14944518#cxrecs_s

Summary:Sea ice in the artic region has been found to be thinning up to twice as fast a previously thought.Sea ice thickness is estimated by measuring the height of the ice above the water. But that measurement is distorted by snow weighing the ice floes down.Previous calculations made with snow maps from 20years ago but this time calculations are first to account for the decreasing snow depth.This thinning of is fuelling geopolitical tensions as many countries eye the untapped artic resources.

Word bank:
∼Complement-thing that contributes extra            features to something else in such a way as to improve or emphasize its quality.
∼geopolitical-relating to politics, especially international relations, as influenced by geographical factors.

Joshua 4E]]> 2021-06-04 13:01:23 UTC https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1585138219 White House warns companies to step up cybersecurity https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1585471049
https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/world/white-house-warns-companies-cybersecurity-attacks-ransomware-14940720


As technology improves, more organizations are prone to being cyberattacked regardless of size or location of the organization. This article brings awareness to the public of the dangers of what cyberattacks are now capable of, shifting from a mere stealing of data to even disruption of services in countries.

Ransomware - a type of malicious software designed to block access to a computer system until a sum of money is paid.

Encryption - the process of converting information or data into a code, especially to prevent unauthorized access.

Zi Le 4E]]> 2021-06-04 15:05:03 UTC https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1585471049 The rivers that 'breathe' greenhouse gases https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1586519270 The rivers that 'breathe' greenhouse gases - BBC Future
summary: rivers that are polluted with oxides of nitrogen will release 10 times the green house gas as a clean river

word bank
microbes-Microbes are tiny living things that are found all around us and are too small to be seen by the naked eye. 

postdoctoral-relating to or denoting research undertaken after the completion of doctoral research.

done by guo yichen]]> 2021-06-05 01:39:19 UTC https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1586519270 Weekend catch-up sleep won’t fix the effects of sleep deprivation on your waistline https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1586877764 https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/weekend-catch-up-sleep-wont-fix-the-effects-of-sleep-deprivation-on-your-waistline-2019092417861
Summary: Sleeping in during weekends just to compensate for the lack of sleep during weekdays would not do anything which is what many believe in but in reality it will continue to harm the body instead.
Word bank:
Jet-lag :Temporary sleep problem that can affect anyone who quickly travels across multiple time zones.
Reframing : frame or express (words or a concept or plan) differently.
Done by Zi Yu]]> 2021-06-05 11:59:05 UTC https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1586877764 Aspiring data analysts, systems engineers or biotechnologists can get insights into these career paths - for free https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1587993866
https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/parenting-education/aspiring-data-analysts-systems-engineers-or-biotechnologists-can-get

There is an increase in the number of people pursing areas in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). These are subjects where there is much growth for innovation to improve all walks of life. 

managerial-relating to management of things

Done by Johann 4E

]]> 2021-06-06 14:16:34 UTC https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1587993866 'grow a clam' for a healthier reef https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1588522507 https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/environment/grow-a-clam-for-a-healthier-reef

Clams grow on the reef and are known to spawn naturally. However, little is known about its reproduction. Out of two clam species in Singapore, Tridacna crocea(boring giant clam) is smaller, measuring 15 cm in length. To ensure its survival and prevent poaching in the long term, researchers are trying to breed them. Serotonin is injected into the clams, causing them to contract the muscles in the sexual organs, releasing 🤬, and shortly after, eggs. The gametes are fused together forming small clams, cross bred between two clams. These are grown in a lab in optimised conditions, protecting them from predators, and increasing supply to meet demand for clams.

Word bank
1. Siphoned---drawing a liquid into a straw of pipe.
2. Serotonin--a neurotransmitter involved in pain perception sleep wake cycle and mood.

Done by Isaac]]> 2021-06-07 00:28:24 UTC https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1588522507 Police investigating incident in which racist remarks were made to interracial couple https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1588822692 https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/racist-remarks-made-to-interracial-couple-are-unacceptable-and-worrying-shanmugam

A Singaporean man assulted an Indian man by saying that he was racist for marrying a Chinese wife. He said that he was preying on his wife and people should only date someone their own race. The perpetrator was also wearing a shirt with the Singapore flag on it, which caused many to be very ashamed of his behaviour. The ministers are now very worried and unsure about Singapore's harmony. 
(the video is found in the link, it's very funny)

word bank:
bigotry: obstinate or unreasonable attachment to a belief, opinion, or faction; in particular, prejudice against a person or people on the basis of their membership of a particular group.
outpouring: an outburst of strong emotion

done by emily]]> 2021-06-07 03:02:03 UTC https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1588822692 Getting onto food delivery platforms eats into already-thin profit margins, says hawkers https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1588963286 summary: 
Hawkers that get onto food delivery platforms say it does little to increase their profit. Large commission fees to board onto the platforms make hawkers hesitate to do so. There are government schemes to help hawkers get onto the platforms, for example NEA's one time $500 grant. However hawkers that successfully get onto the platforms still can't make enough as the delivery orders barely make up for the huge drop in walk-in customers due to the pandemic. This leaves hawkers at a loss, deciding whether to let their food prices remain as normal, or increase the prices but risk losing customers. Therefore some hawkers question if getting onto delivery platforms is actually worthwhile. 

word bank: 
viable: capable of working successfully, feasible 

leeway: the amount of freedom to move or act that is available

done by tze sun ]]> 2021-06-07 04:27:17 UTC https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1588963286 coronavirus mutated 32 times inside South African HIV-positive woman over course of seven months https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1589387559 https://www.scmp.com/news/world/africa/article/3136136/woman-hiv-had-covid-19-seven-months-virus-mutated-32-times-inside

summary:
a 36-year-old woman with advanced HIV carried the novel coronavirus for 216 days, during which the virus accumulated more than 30 mutations. 13 of these mutations were known to help the virus escape the immune response, while the other 19 could change the behaviour of the virus. 

word bank: 
1. anfractuous - have a lot of bends and curves. 
2. amicable - friendly.

dior ]]> 2021-06-07 08:16:03 UTC https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1589387559 Singapore researchers develop blood test for cancer treatment and detection https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1589859956 summary : Through a simple blood test, this ExoScope technology would allow us to determine earlier which patients are more likely to have a good response to treatment. This has the potential to inform us on whether the patient would need additional or different therapies and it can determine the effectiveness of cancer treatment within 24 hours, but also detect the disease in annual check-ups.

word bank :
epidermal : outermost layer of the skin.
Haematology-Oncology : combined medical practice of hematology (the study of the blood's physiology) and oncology (the study of cancer)
https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/singapore-researchers-develop-blood-test-for-cancer-treatment-and-detection

done by charmaine 

]]> 2021-06-07 13:07:23 UTC https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1589859956 Cutting down of trees in Yoyogi raises new frustrations over Tokyo Olympics https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1589956328 https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/commentary/tokyo-olympics-covid-19-yoyogi-park-closed-live-zone-athlete-ioc-14919832

As Japan continues with its decision to hold the olympics, they prepare to cut down trees in the Yoyogi park to make space for the Live Zone. This provokes the Japanese public as they see the Yoyogi park as a place with a lot of memories and value. Moreover, the governments decision to carry out with the olympics despite closing down the Yoyogi park earlier this year comes off as hypocritical to some. The article briefly mentions the history of the Yoyogi park as well.

Word bank:
vandalous-destructive
lionize- glorify
might-is-right -those who are powerful can do what they wish unchallenged, even if their action is in fact unjustified.
indignation-anger or annoyance provoked by what is perceived as unfair treatment.(S:resentment)
By dayan tan jie an

]]> 2021-06-07 13:38:35 UTC https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1589956328 Raids worldwide as police reveal vast hack of criminal encryption platform https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1592328867  https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/world/anom-encryption-crime-australia-new-zealand-14970016
the "world's most sophisticated" sting, law enforcement from New Zealand, Australia the United States and Europe resulting in hundreds of arrests.
1)redolent-describe something as suggestive, we mean it suggests or calls up thoughts or ideas of other things. (His recommendation was suggestive of his boss’s thinking.) 
2)erstwhile-The adjective former means, broadly, earlier in time (during a former stage in the proceedings) or, of two things in succession, earlier in order
By Ramachandran]]> 2021-06-08 08:30:26 UTC https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1592328867 5 months' jail for policeman who helped to intentionally pervert the course of justice https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1598019618 https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/courts-crime/5-months-jail-for-policeman-who-helped-to-intentionally-pervert-the-course-of

summary:
A policeman was charged for intentionally perverting the course of justice by attempting to assist a social media personality in passing on instructions to a witness of the defendant’s case, which included the intent to lie in the witness statement. However during the call, the officer was caught as the witness was in the middle of an interview with other authorities. Hence, he was charged and suspended from service.

word bank:
1. Pervert: distort or corrupt the original course, meaning, or state of (something).
2. Fraudulent: obtained, done by, or involving deception, especially criminal deception.

done by: pearlena
]]> 2021-06-10 08:01:59 UTC https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1598019618 Issuing of banknotes, ATM withdrawals and cheque clearance fall amid rise in e-payments jingyucao706 https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1599859236 Summary :
Singapore has seen a shift from traditional cash or cheque payment towards e-payments .Singapore monetary authority is now proactively promoting the adoption of e -payment in place of paper notes,  which alleviates the environmental impact while producing, processing and transporting the physical currency.
Word Bank :
incineration : the destruction of something, mostly waste materials, by burning  “ waste incineration”
aberration : a departure from what is normal , usual or expected. Usually unwelcomed
Submitted by JIngyu


]]> 2021-06-11 00:19:44 UTC https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1599859236 Covid has made online shopping addicts of us all https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1599954627 summary:
Since the pandemic began, online spending keeps breaking records. Such shopping compulsion can be  a sign of people trying to escape from negative feelings and uncomfortable feelings. Yet, over shopping can result in a vicious cycle. Instead of easing our feelings, it can result in our guilt due to over-splurging which increases discomfort and intensifies the urge to shop. Hence, we should all think twice before clicking the “purchase” bottom.
word bank:
repercussion: unpleasant consequence
normalcy: the condition of being normal; the state of being usual, typical, or expected.
link:
https://www.ft.com/content/d2074321-ef2b-43ad-acf7-60f37d605fc7

by yichun]]> 2021-06-11 01:04:56 UTC https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1599954627 Mass of Human Chromosomes Measured for the First Time – Mysteriously Heavier Than Expected https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1600001902 https://scitechdaily.com/mass-of-human-chromosomes-measured-for-the-first-time-mysteriously-heavier-than-expected/

Summary: 
- Scientists manage to measure the weight of a chromosome, which was heavier than they would expect, revealing that there are components in a chromosome yet to be discovered.

Word bank:
- NIL

Done by Seng Hoi]]> 2021-06-11 01:27:58 UTC https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1600001902 Plastics, Plastics Everywhere https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1600764676 https://www.americanscientist.org/article/plastics-plastics-everywhere
Summary: The amount of plastics found in the environment has drastically increased to unimaginable levels of pollution, and not just plastic bags or bottles, there are also microplastics that are not able to be seen through the naked eye that are also polluting the environment.
Word bank: Exfoliating: is the process of removing dead skin cells from the surface of your skin using a chemical, granular substance, or exfoliation tool.
Tributaries: 1. is a river or stream flowing into a larger river or lake.
2. a person or state that pays tribute to another state or ruler.
Done by Zi Yu]]> 2021-06-11 10:26:00 UTC https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1600764676 How COVID-19 vaccines are being weaponised as countries jostle for influence https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1600852058 https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/world/covid-19-vaccines-weaponised-coronavirus-china-us-russia-14564748#

Summary of article:
The Italian prime minister , Mario Draghi , has rejected exporting some 250,000 AstraZeneca vaccines to Australia which many people view it as an act of vaccine nationalism. Back in 2020 , when the outbreak of the virus had just begun the US , EU , UK , India and China had implemented export restrictions of personal protective equipment or better known as the acronym 'PPE'. Not only 'PPE's were restricted but antiseptic chemicals and shipments of ventilators had been halted as national health services are battling for health supplies. However , it is speculated that the outcome of vaccine nationalism is the rise of vaccine diplomacy. It is a form of politics where nations gain the most advantage from their vaccine capabilities for geopolitical benefit.

Word Bank:
Geopolitical : relating to politics, especially international relations, as influenced by geographical factors

Vaccine diplomacy (not a word but still) : Vaccine diplomacy is the use of vaccines to improve a country's diplomatic relationship and influence of other countries

done by : rehan]]> 2021-06-11 11:50:12 UTC https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1600852058 OrchardxChange ghost town https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1601165789 https://www.todayonline.com/singapore/ghost-town-shops-orchard-xchange-tell-sluggish-business-landlord-smrt-moves-take-back

summary: 
rented businesses depend heavily on consumers to generate money to pay rent on top of getting profits. what happens when businesses suddenly slow down? shop tenants at OrchardxChange have been struggling with rent over the past 3 years and with the recent covid-19 resurgence rendering businesses a lack of customers, the landlord of the shops at OrchardxChange, smrt, has decided to take back the shops from the tenants. 

word bank: 
sluggish: slow-moving or inactive.

prospective: expected or expecting to be the specified thing in the future.

Marcus yee]]> 2021-06-11 14:19:35 UTC https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1601165789 Thai man brings cockroach to vet after seeing it injured by the road https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1601233847
https://mothership.sg/2021/06/man-bring-cockroach-to-vet/

Summary: A man, that is out of the ordinary, sees a cockroach on the road and decides to bring it to the vet to get it treated. This man embodies compassion that we should all have towards animals, such as cockroaches that we often overlook as a pest. 

Word bank: pegged - fix (a price, rate, or amount) at a particular level.

ZI LE]]> 2021-06-11 14:46:52 UTC https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1601233847 What Covid-19's long tail is revealing about disease https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1602062974 due to the covid-19 pandemic, many hospitals and clinics are still seeing more than half of the patients that have covid-19. however, the bizarre thing is t he
sudden influx of completely healthy patients  who were experiencing chronic symptoms. Their stories all followed a recurring pattern, beginning with a seemingly mild infection before a strange constellation of aliments start to emerge. Rather than subsiding, these symptoms continued to persist even after the virus had supposedly left their bodies.
work bank: 
constellation:  a group of people or things that are similar.
recurring: keeps coming back / repeating.
https://www.bbc.com/future/article/20210609-how-long-will-long-covid-last
done by corliss

]]> 2021-06-11 23:51:53 UTC https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1602062974 Cambodians being evicted from their floating homes https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1602413779 The government of cambodia is evicting the people living in the floating homes on the Tonle sap Riverdespite the objections from the residents who say they have no where else to go.  The dloating homes were the livelihood of the people living there for generations. They depend on their homes for fishing and a safe place to stay.

Clink the link below to find out more⬇️
Cambodia begins evicting floating homes amid protests
https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/se-asia/cambodia-begins-evicting-floating-homes-amid-protests

Word bank:
Interspersed
Grayling

]]> 2021-06-12 10:41:40 UTC https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1602413779 77 people fined for COVID-19 breaches at parks; enforcement stepped up at hotspots including HDB common areas https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1603046790 https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/singapore/covid-19-77-fined-parks-no-mask-enforcement-hdb-common-areas-14992678

Summary:77 people have been fine for not complying with covid19 rules of phase 2(heighten alert).Some of which are found to be in groups of more than 2 or not wearing a mask even though they are not engaging  any strenous exercise.To ensure the safety of the public, Nparks would continue to close some parks and sections of beaches.If there are too many people frequently gathered at facilities,such as hard courts,car park and shelters,breaching covid19 rules these facilities would also be closed.MSC hopes that the public would act responsibility to make public spaces safe for everyone.From July 14,group size would increase from 2 to 5 as the first step to move into phase 3(heighten alert)and more restrictions would be ease from 21july ,like dinning in.
Word bank:
Flouted 
-openly disregard (a rule, law, or convention)
Cordon 
-prevent access to or from an area or building by surrounding it with police or other guards.
Joshua 4E]]> 2021-06-13 05:14:46 UTC https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1603046790 Test-bedding technologies crucial to accelerating solar deployment: Experts https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1603357978
https://www.straitstimes.com/world/test-bedding-technologies-crucial-to-accelerating-solar-deployment-experts

As the world move to more renewable sources of energy so that less fossil fuels are used, solar panels are becoming more common. However, to make use of solar energy the costs to manufacture and maintain it is expensive hence to move complete reliance on renewable energy will still take a few years. 

photovoltaic - the conversion of light into electricity

validate - to prove the accuracy or to support the truth

Johann 4E]]> 2021-06-13 13:18:12 UTC https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1603357978 Agreement to boost climate finance but critics say details scant https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1603796201 https://www.straitstimes.com/world/g7-agrees-to-increase-climate-finance-calls-on-others-to-join

At Carbis bay, England, G7 leaders raised their contributions to 100 million USD a year till 2025 to help developing countries cut CO2 emissions. Leaders also pledged to conserve 30% of global land and sea by 2030. However, some people are skeptical whether they would carry out what they planned to do.

Word bank:
1. Communique--official bulletin or communication
2. Grappling--grab, wrestle

Done by Isaac]]> 2021-06-13 23:45:00 UTC https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1603796201 Commentary: What if another widespread Internet outage happens? jingyucao706 https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1603933058 summary : With the growing reliance on the Internet, the impact of cyber disruption or even cyberattack is being tremendously disruptive. Concerns have been raised as people see themselves suffering from the inconvenience of even a temporary cessation of internet service. An alternative plan should be prepared by authorities and organizations, while individuals should remain calm and patient while waiting for the backup system to kick in.
word bank:
Avert - to prevent something bad from happening  -“to avert a crisis / conflict / strike / famine /disaster/ economic collapse”.
Premeditated —(especially of a crime or something unpleasant) done after being thought about or carefully planned - “premeditated murder / attack”.
Submitted by Jingyu

 ]]> 2021-06-14 01:16:29 UTC https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1603933058 Eating Air: Discover the farm life in New Zealand https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1604559304 https://www.straitstimes.com/life/eating-air-discover-the-farm-life-in-new-zealand

 A virtual trip to a farm in australia. Where blue skies and sprawling pastures strech out endlessly behind the host. The first 10  mins were spent introducing the farm - which houses hundreds of sheep, chickens and pigs. The host says it is 3-4 deg c there so i tried to ignore singapores tropical heat for a fuller experience. He conducts pop quizzes whileon the way to the new location. He introduces sheeps and a couple of wondering kunekune pigs. This is a sustaijnable farm where technonlgy is intrgrated so he can run his one man show.

wanderlust: a strong desire to travel
rousing: exciiting ;stirring

Done by Kang You

]]> 2021-06-14 07:38:42 UTC https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1604559304 Singapore marine life enthusiasts ‘horrified’ over beach goers digging up sea creatures https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1604794955
summary: marine life enthusiasts witnessed people at changi beach picking up and collecting various sea creatures from the sand. these include crabs, sea cucumbers, fish, shells, eels, jellyfish and sea anemone. they were angered by this as they claimed that stuffing the creatures into pails will suffocate them and cause them distress. additionally, the creatures were roughly handled and grabbed with tongs. this not only kills the creatures, but also risks the collectors' safety. people that walk on the beach with their feet exposed risk stepping on venomous creatures and the pain from getting stung by such creatures is extreme. 

word bank: 
ethical: relating to moral principles or the branch of knowledge dealing with these 

intertidal: of or denoting the area of a seashore which is covered at high tide and uncovered at low tide
"let's go on an intertidal walk" 

done by tze sun ]]> 2021-06-14 10:43:14 UTC https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1604794955 Centuries-old shipwrecks discovered in S'pore waters; artefacts to be displayed in museums badriagathy https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1609448605 https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/centuries-old-shipw

Two shipwrecks - one dating possibly to the 14th century and the other to the 18th - have been excavated within Singapore's waters - a first for the nation and a groundbreaking development for its maritime heritage.

Both wrecks, bearing Chinese ceramics as their primary cargo, were found in the waters off Pedra Branca, a rocky outcrop surrounded by shallow waters where ships throughout history have come

 to grief.

The plan is to display the artefacts in museums here from the end of this year.

Pragmatist-an approach that evaluated theories or beliefs in terms of the success of their practical application

Fissure-long and narrow opening 
By Ramachandran 

]]> 2021-06-16 07:23:50 UTC https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1609448605 Vietnam's proposal to postpone SEA Games opposed by most member states https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1609683254 https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/sport/vietnam-postpone-sea-games-covid-19-meeting-oppose-14980660#.YMnTbPa82D4

Vietnam has experienced an acute surge in covid-19 cases. The situation is so dire that the country is even planning to postpone the 31st South East Asian Games or better known as SEA Games. However , majority of the participating Federations have surprisingly opposed to this proposal. Countries such as Malaysia , Indonesia , Philippines,  Thailand , Timor Leste and Singapore were not onboard with postponing it as they claim to be deep in preparations. Furthermore , the plans to postpone the 2021 SEA Games to 2022 was not ideal for anyone as it just makes 2022 even more packed for the athletes with the 2022 Asian Games and other major competitions set to take place as well.  However despite most of the nations rejecting the proposal , Vietnam does have the right to postpone it since it is the host nation. Will they postpone it or not ? Find out in two more weeks.

Congregate : gather into a crowd or mass

Zeitgeist : the defining spirit or mood of a particular period of history as shown by the ideas and beliefs of the time.

done by rehan]]> 2021-06-16 10:33:05 UTC https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1609683254 JTC and Shell Singapore sign MOU to explore development of solar farm on Semakau Landfill https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1611471102 https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/singapore/semakau-landfill-jtc-and-shell-singapore-sign-mou-solar-farm-15031852

summary : 
JTC Corporation and Shell Singapore have signed a non-binding Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to jointly explore the development of a solar farm on part of Semakau Landfill and maximise the use of Semakau in a way that is compatible with its primary purpose as a landfill. it is the first large-scale solar project in Singapore where a sanitary landfill is also used for clean energy generation. It is to reduce Singapore’s carbon emissions and meet its growing clean energy needs 

word bank : 
Memorandum : a written message in business or diplomacy

done by charmaine ]]> 2021-06-17 04:11:25 UTC https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1611471102 Raising bilingual children is challenging but immensely rewarding https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1611473352 https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/commentary/mother-tongue-parent-child-teach-school-bilingual-language-learn-14946504

Summary: Raising bilingual children is hard as many children  view their mother tongue as only an academic subject and do not find any real life applications for learning their mother tongue. Moreover, it has been shown that children gravitate to languages that their peers use, most commonly english, which also increases the difficulty in raising a bilingual child. Ways to ignite a passion for the language in children include teaching the children the relevant uses of the language that may appeal to them. This gives value to learning the mother tongue, incentivising children to learn the language because they want to and not because they are compelled to by their parents. Lastly, it is imperative that parents do not give up and that they persevere even though their child may not reciprocate to their efforts in cultivating a joy for learning  the  language

idiosyncratic- a mode of behaviour or way of thought perculiar to an individual.
affinity - a natural liking for and understanding of someone or something.
Rote learning - memorization technique based on repetition.

By Dayan tan jie an ]]> 2021-06-17 04:13:09 UTC https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1611473352 myanmar footballer to seek asylum in japan https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1611614681 Myanmar footballer to seek asylum in Japan
https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/asia/myanmar-footballer-seek-asylum-in-japan-15031200

summary: A goalkeeper from Myanmar's national team who raised an anti-coup salute during a match outside Tokyo has refused to fly home and will seek asylum in Japan. The footballer, whose teammates are believed to have returned home on Wednesday, said he will not go back until ousted leader Aung San Suu Kyi returns to power.

immaculate: perfectly neat, clean or tidy. 
decadent: characterized by or reflecting a state of moral or cultural decline. (adjective) ; a person who is luxuriously self-indulgent. (noun)

dior 4D

]]> 2021-06-17 05:51:27 UTC https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1611614681 COVID-19 pandemic sparks surge in Hong Kong 'devil's breath' cash druggings https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1611758932 https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/asia/covid-19-pandemic-crime-surge-hong-kong-devil-breath-cash-scam-15032056

summary:
There has been an increase in crimes happening in Wanchai, Hongkong where customers of bars have been marked as targets of opportunistic crimes. Victims tend to find themselves with no recollection of events and find that their bank accounts have been emptied out by the scammers who have drugged them by drugging their drinks and taking down their PIN numbers. With these crimes, not only is there the damage of having to deal with the financial loss, it leaves victims wondering how they could they be so submissive to these crimes.

word bank:
1. Conceded: admit or agree that something is true after first denying or resisting it
2. Pliable: easily influenced

done by: pearlena
]]> 2021-06-17 07:25:48 UTC https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1611758932 The Human Genome Is—Finally!—Complete https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1613812484 https://www.theatlantic.com/science/archive/2021/06/the-human-genome-is-finally-complete/619172/

Summary: Scientists have finally discovered the remaining 8% of  unexplored DNA

Word bank:
  Consortium (noun) - An association of several companies
  Enigmatic (Adj) - Base: Enigma (noun) - A mysterious or puzzling person or thing
  Pomp (noun) - Special clothes, music, and customs that are part of a grand public ceremony
  Grassroots (noun) - The most basic level of an activity or organisation

Done by Seng Hoi]]> 2021-06-18 06:00:42 UTC https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1613812484 All credit and debit card customers affected by duplicate transactions have been given refunds: DBS https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1615418954 https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/all-customers-affected-by-duplicate-transactions-refunded-dbs

DBS bank refunds all customer when a glitch happens in tthe system which charges customer twiceq causing many to panic.

 breached: make a gap in and break through (a wall, barrier, or defence).
"the river breached its bank"
 Monetary: relating to money or currency.
"documents with little or no monetary value"
done by  kang you

]]> 2021-06-19 11:57:50 UTC https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1615418954 Schools Love the Idea of a Growth Mindset, But Does it Work ? jingyucao706 https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1616205471
Summary : People with a growth mindset deceive challenges and failures as motivations for improvement, thus they tend to constantly invest more efforts for greater self - improvement . The consensus on the significance of cultivating students’ growth mindset in schools has impelled teachers to stress this notion to their students . However, little statistical significance has been yielded  through direct intervention. Instead of purposely installing the notion into students, educators should place more heed on developing students’concrete capabilities , which would in turn lead to achievements and  naturally propel students better value personal growth.

Word bank :
platitudinous - boring and meaningless because it has been said so many times before  (hackneyed)
" It was such a platitudinous speech"
proselytize  -to persuade someone to change their religious or political belief or way of living to your own (promote)
"Missionaries were sent to proselytize in rural areas of the country."


Done by - Jingyu 



]]> 2021-06-20 14:52:32 UTC https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1616205471 Surgeons to rebuild face of boy mauled by hyena https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1616501265 https://www.straitstimes.com/world/surgeons-to-rebuild-face-of-boy-mauled-by-hyena

On may 2, during night church service outside Harare, Zimbabwe a 9 year old child was mauled by a hyena. Due to a lack of facilities there, the child was brought to Johannesburg, South Africa, for surgery. The surgeons agreed to operate on him for free.

Word bank
1. Maul --handle or use roughly, injure by rough beating, shoving or the like
2. Exploratory-- preliminary

Done by Isaac]]> 2021-06-20 23:33:23 UTC https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1616501265 Biologists Raise Alarm: Brain Damage Caused by Even Small Amounts of Plasticizers https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1616715558 https://scitechdaily.com/biologists-raise-alarm-brain-damage-caused-by-even-small-amounts-of-plasticizers/
Summary:According the the study of University of Bayreuth even small amounts of Plasticisers could cause disruption of signals between nerve cells in the brains of fish and have warn that it very likely that similar interference can also occur in the brains of adult humans.Plasticisers bisphenol A and bisphenol which is found to cause these damage are found in in plastic products world wide in items including food packaging,bottles,toys and even tooth fillings.Therefore,it is essential that science and industry develop new plasticizers to replace these bisphenols, while being safe for human health.
Word bank:
Plasticizers
-is a substance that is added to a material to make it softer and more flexible, to increase its plasticity, to decrease its viscosity, or to decrease friction during its handling in manufacture.
detrimental
-tending to cause harm
Joshua]]> 2021-06-21 02:00:58 UTC https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1616715558 Don't feel hungry when it’s hot? Some animals in Australia are starving as climate change drives up temperatures https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1616737981 https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/climatechange/not-hungry-when-hot-australia-animals-starving-heat-15034218
Summary:Australian National University found that wild animals eat less when they are hot,this is causing animals to be suffering and starving despite having ample amounts of food,this can be fatal in certain sensitive and vulnerable species. It is said that these finding can be relevant to many animals and birds all around the world,which can lead to mass die-offs during heat waves or individual mortalities, longer term effects include lower survival rates for offspring, missed reproductive cycles with reduced offspring numbers and, over time, greater population susceptibility to other threats.It is hope that these findings could be a wake up call for all and more can done to to save these animals.
Word bank:
tenuous
-very weak or slight
monocultures
-the cultivation of a single crop in a given area.
Joshua]]> 2021-06-21 02:14:16 UTC https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1616737981 12 dead in Alabama due to tropical depression Claudette, including 10 children https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1616968469 summary: a tropical depression is a tropical cyclone, a rapidly rotating storm system with a low pressure center which has low level circulation, strong winds and a spiral of thunderstorms that result in heavy rains. it may also develop into a hurricane later on. flash floods, strong winds and tornadoes in Alabama have destroyed many homes. a multi-car accident caused by the slippery roads left 12 dead, 10 of which were children. many were also left injured. 

word bank 
hydroplaning: a situation in which a vehicle slides out of a wet road 
"avoid driving during wet weather, the slippery roads increase the risk of hydroplaning."

offset: counteract (something) by having an equal and opposite force or effect

done by tze sun ]]> 2021-06-21 04:51:53 UTC https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1616968469 World in worst 'cascade of human rights setbacks in our lifetimes': UN badriagathy https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1617895933 https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/world/un-human-rights-china-xinjiang-hong-kong-russia-ethiopia-15060710
Extreme poverty, inequalities and injustice are rising. Democratic and civic space is being eroded Ethiopia's northern Tigray region, wracked by war and with some 350,000 people threatened by famine.
Sweltering means very hot
Congregation means gather
By Ramachandran ]]> 2021-06-21 15:44:26 UTC https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1617895933 How COVID-19 vaccines are being weaponised as countries jostle for influence. https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1619778903 https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/world/covid-19-vaccines-weaponised-coronavirus-china-us-russia-14564748 
Summary: Countries with supply and access to vaccines are leveraging it for geopolitical gain. This signals that a hybrid cold war is on the way and progress to make countries more interconnected with each other through globalisation will be hindered. Vaccine diplomacy has become a common occurrence with countries strategically using their supply of vaccines to build better relationships with other countries for their own benefit.
Wordbank:
self-serving- having concern for one's own welfare and interests before those of others; self-seeking. 
callous-showing or having an insensitive and cruel disregard for others.

by dayan]]> 2021-06-22 14:32:38 UTC https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1619778903 US to review dark history of indigenous boarding schools https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1621115779 https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/world/us-to-review-dark-history-of-indigenous-boarding-schools-15070718
the federal government will uncover the truth about the loss of human life and the lasting consequences which forced hundreds of thousands of children from their families and communities
Indigenous children were taken from their communities and forced into boarding schools that focused on assimilation. federal government's attempt to wipe out tribal identity, language and culture by cycles of violence and abuse, premature deaths, mental health issues and substance abuse.

legislation : laws, considered collectively
coalition : a group formed of different organizations or people who agree to act together, usually temporarily, to achieve something

done by charmaine ]]> 2021-06-23 05:44:45 UTC https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1621115779 ACRES & SPCA visit House of Seafood in Punggol after it took crabs for walk on leash https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1621867537 https://mothership.sg/2021/06/acres-spca-house-of-seafood/

summary: 
the workers are naive, they brought the crabs out for a walk to make them muscular and meaty. (to them: more meaty, greater satisfaction for customers). yes, then this got out into the internet and now SPCA knows about it. hygiene is KEY especially during covid 

1. extravagant- lacking restraint in spending money or using resources.
2. mitigate- make (something bad) less severe, serious, or painful.

dior 4D]]> 2021-06-23 15:15:02 UTC https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1621867537 'Too much': EU leaders confront Hungary's Orban over new anti-LGBT law https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1624901837 https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/world/too-much-eu-leaders-confront-hungary-s-orban-over-new-anti-lgbt-15083090

summary:
Hungary Prime Minister Viktor Orban was confronted by fellow European Union Leaders on the issue of the new law implemented in Hungary, banning LGBTQ+ content in schools.  Not aligning with the values of the European Union, leaders from 17 countries signed on a letter of the disapproval of threat against fundamental rights, specifically in terms of one’s sexual orientation. The EU is now conducting an investigation on the new law being put in place in Hungary, with a consideration of potentially removing Hungary from its Union.

word bank:
1. Flouting: openly disregard (a rule, law, or convention).
2. Conflating: combine (two or more sets of information, texts, ideas, etc.) into one.

done by: pearlena
]]> 2021-06-25 05:50:03 UTC https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1624901837 Fires destroy two more churches in Canada indigenous communities https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1627038946 https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/world/fires-destroy-two-more-churches-in-canada-indigenous-communities-15101228#

Two churches has been set ablaze in the early morning. Both the churches were left in a grim state and were within one hour. It is indeed highly suspicious as the authorities are investigating this issue very cautiously as it is incredibly uncommon to see two churches that are one hour away from each other to go down in flames. It is certain that the perpetrator is opposed against the indigenous community. This has caused the prime minister to apologize for the policy of indigenous assimilation and how it is harmful. It has been concluded where Canada has committed 'grave genocide'

shivoo - a boisterous party or celebration

paucity - the smallness of quantity or scarcity

done by rehan]]> 2021-06-27 14:08:16 UTC https://padlet.com/hirfananoor/sk2trdhvnqvavikv/wish/1627038946