Summary:
The author of 'The God Delusion', Richard Dawkins, is interested in setting up what he calls a "free thinking school" under the government's plan to encourage independent education establishments.
Under plans disclosed by the Coalition last week, parents, charities and voluntary groups will be able to set up “free schools” funded by public money but independent from state control. The former Oxford University professor and evolutionary biologist is glad he was asked to set up a “secular school” or an “atheist free school” as an antidote to faith schools by women who believe they are divisive and anti-scientific. Dawkins thinks children should not be indoctrinated by any religion but be taught to ask for evidence, to be sceptical, critical, open-minded. This "free thinking school" would provide lessons about the gods of ancient Greece and Norse legend, and would treat the Bible as a work of literature rather than a basis for morality.
The current rules for all schools provide collective worship daily in assemblies with exception that that parents can withdraw their children. The schools have to teach religious education under the National Curriculum. The new "free thinking school" will not be obligated under this.
Reaction:
I think it is very immoral of England's government to come up with the idea of an atheist school. I always thought the government and the law were founded on the Protestant faith. I can imagine that some parents do not want their children, what they call "indoctrinated" but that doesn't mean you give this group the freedom to set up a school that teaches children that the Bible, Gods word, is unreliable and just literature. To me there you have drawn the line.
Besides, the Christian faith means that you believe without seeing; that you believe with all your heart that it's true. So there is no need to provide evidence for the Christian belief as Dawkins opinions. To me that belongs to atheism because that's is it's foundation: evidence and proof to support an opinion or argument. Therefore I think that this "free thinking school" should not teach children to be critical and to support evidence for belief: because that is contradicting the Christian faith.
Link:
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/newstopics/religion/7849563/Richard-Dawkins-interested-in-setting-up-atheist-free-school.html
vrijdag 25 juni 2010
maandag 21 juni 2010
Dozens of dead fish in reservoir Portavoe
Summary:
In a reservoir in Countydown, Donaghadee were found dozens of dead trout. The reasons vary per opinion, however each counted as reasonable.
People living near Portavoe Reservoir outside Donaghadee say that water levels have dropped recently after a sluice gate was left open. The NI Water, which owns the reservoir, responds to this saying the gate was opened after a recent flood but was closed again. According to other research by the Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure the fish died due to low water levels, increased temperature and a lack of oxygen. This physical condition is known as ‘furunculosis’ and is common at this time of the year under similar physical conditions. However, on 20 June, a Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA) officer investigated the dead fish at Portavoe and found no evidence of pollution, but witnessed some distressed fish in the lower levels of the reservoir. BBC reporter Gordon Adair, reporting from the scene for the BBC, said the fish could clearly be seen struggling for air in distress. Anglers say the sudden drop in water levels mean that there is not enough oxygen in the water for the fish. The website of the Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure declare that there are about 6000 trout in the reservoir, which can be fished exclusively by fly fisherman.
Reaction:
Even though I’m not sure how many fish are dead, I can not believe that there are so many killed. It’s always horrible to see nature destroyed especially in a situation like that where there has been said that the fish died of lack of air and distressed. Good thing that these fish are in a reservoir and can be more easily be reproduced than fish in the open sea. Restrictions can be made for less fishing in order to give these trout a chance to expand again. It’s a pity that it seems that there has been a drop in water levels. Could it be that these people have made a mistake and haven’t taken enough care of these fish? If it so, than they should be held responsible.
Link:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/northern_ireland/10360509.stm
In a reservoir in Countydown, Donaghadee were found dozens of dead trout. The reasons vary per opinion, however each counted as reasonable.
People living near Portavoe Reservoir outside Donaghadee say that water levels have dropped recently after a sluice gate was left open. The NI Water, which owns the reservoir, responds to this saying the gate was opened after a recent flood but was closed again. According to other research by the Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure the fish died due to low water levels, increased temperature and a lack of oxygen. This physical condition is known as ‘furunculosis’ and is common at this time of the year under similar physical conditions. However, on 20 June, a Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA) officer investigated the dead fish at Portavoe and found no evidence of pollution, but witnessed some distressed fish in the lower levels of the reservoir. BBC reporter Gordon Adair, reporting from the scene for the BBC, said the fish could clearly be seen struggling for air in distress. Anglers say the sudden drop in water levels mean that there is not enough oxygen in the water for the fish. The website of the Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure declare that there are about 6000 trout in the reservoir, which can be fished exclusively by fly fisherman.
Reaction:
Even though I’m not sure how many fish are dead, I can not believe that there are so many killed. It’s always horrible to see nature destroyed especially in a situation like that where there has been said that the fish died of lack of air and distressed. Good thing that these fish are in a reservoir and can be more easily be reproduced than fish in the open sea. Restrictions can be made for less fishing in order to give these trout a chance to expand again. It’s a pity that it seems that there has been a drop in water levels. Could it be that these people have made a mistake and haven’t taken enough care of these fish? If it so, than they should be held responsible.
Link:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/northern_ireland/10360509.stm
World Cup 2010: Fabio Capello blames England for a poor start
Summary:
Manager of England’s football team, Fabio Capello, says the players are under pressure hindering them to play. The manager has overseen draws against USA and Algeria and has been surprised by the players' inability to assert themselves against teams expected to cause them few problems.
According to Capello there is a mental problem going on. He says that when under big pressure, the legs can not function normal. He reported to BBC Sports that there is no more room for errors, after the game against Slovenia, and next game they will be no more chances, they will have to win.
The results have not been good and there hasn’t been a spirit on the pitch during the 90 minutes. However, he disagrees with reports of disharmony in the squad and said the spirit in the hotel and in training is "incredible”. He denied there have been comments about the game against Algeria. He also denied that there had been a crisis meeting last night and that the players had voiced their misgivings.
According to Capello the teamspirit is fantastic; just incredible. The players are training well; they are smiling, playing together and enjoying each other company. But manager Capello wants to see this on the field during the game. “We are here to play at the World Cup and not for a holiday."
Reaction:
I think it is really important to also have a little fun when playing in a match in an important match like the World Cup. Players should not play under a big amount of pressure because it affects the body and the mind. They will pressured and will probably fail faster because of this ‘weight’ on there backs. To me it seems much more pleasant and competitive to play with a sound body and mind.
I do not believe Cappelo’s opinion about the players enjoying each other company and that trainings are going well. There are always issues in World Cup games and defiantly in a team with more than 10 men who all want to win the money. I haven’t seen England play with a team spirit either, to me it seems more like an individual ‘one man show’.
Link:
Manager of England’s football team, Fabio Capello, says the players are under pressure hindering them to play. The manager has overseen draws against USA and Algeria and has been surprised by the players' inability to assert themselves against teams expected to cause them few problems.
According to Capello there is a mental problem going on. He says that when under big pressure, the legs can not function normal. He reported to BBC Sports that there is no more room for errors, after the game against Slovenia, and next game they will be no more chances, they will have to win.
The results have not been good and there hasn’t been a spirit on the pitch during the 90 minutes. However, he disagrees with reports of disharmony in the squad and said the spirit in the hotel and in training is "incredible”. He denied there have been comments about the game against Algeria. He also denied that there had been a crisis meeting last night and that the players had voiced their misgivings.
According to Capello the teamspirit is fantastic; just incredible. The players are training well; they are smiling, playing together and enjoying each other company. But manager Capello wants to see this on the field during the game. “We are here to play at the World Cup and not for a holiday."
Reaction:
I think it is really important to also have a little fun when playing in a match in an important match like the World Cup. Players should not play under a big amount of pressure because it affects the body and the mind. They will pressured and will probably fail faster because of this ‘weight’ on there backs. To me it seems much more pleasant and competitive to play with a sound body and mind.
I do not believe Cappelo’s opinion about the players enjoying each other company and that trainings are going well. There are always issues in World Cup games and defiantly in a team with more than 10 men who all want to win the money. I haven’t seen England play with a team spirit either, to me it seems more like an individual ‘one man show’.
Link:
donderdag 17 juni 2010
Prince William blowing the mighty vuvuzela (Speakers corner)
! For my speakers corner 17-06-2010
Summary:
On his second day on the African tour with his brother Harry, prince William had the privilege to blow the vuvuzela: today’s most popular instrument blowed by supporters in the Football World Cup 2010.
The prince visited his charity Sentable in Lesotho and a primary school in Botswana, where he was asked to give the vuvuzela a try. William grinned and said he can’t blow it. A little boy, Rabone Badubi of 11 years old, then puffed into the instrument to show the prince how it’s done. The prince covered one ear with his finger when the powerful sound blew out the green trumpet. William kept avoiding to give it a try, in order not to embarrass himself. After a while he reluctantly tried, producing a disappointing squelch on the green plastic trumpet. He commented “there you go, embarrassing myself again”.
Archbishop of 78 years old has a vuvuzela too, and hits back at calls of having the African horns banned from the World Cup games. He says the instruments add an atmosphere to the party.
But the vuvuzelas will not be heard at the Wimbeldon tennis championship, starting next Monday. Officials banned them yesterday because the deafening noise will distract the players.
Reaction:
Is it fair to have the vuvuzela banned for the Wimbeldon tennis championship and not for the big World Cup games? Does it have to do with the fact that prince William has his opinion and influence about this matter in the tennis games? I do agree the vuvuzelas are the cultural instruments of the Africans and that they give a cheering atmosphere to the games, but is it convenient for the players and referees to play under such noisy circumstances? I think it’s also turned into big business. Every fan shop has atleast a few of these trumpets, and if possible in more than one colour. If I compare the pro’s and con’s, then yes I do agree that the vuvuzelas should be banned from the World Cup games 2010. Especially in the tensioned final games!
Link:
http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/news/royals/3017749/Wills-blast-with-little-zela-fella.html
Summary:
On his second day on the African tour with his brother Harry, prince William had the privilege to blow the vuvuzela: today’s most popular instrument blowed by supporters in the Football World Cup 2010.
The prince visited his charity Sentable in Lesotho and a primary school in Botswana, where he was asked to give the vuvuzela a try. William grinned and said he can’t blow it. A little boy, Rabone Badubi of 11 years old, then puffed into the instrument to show the prince how it’s done. The prince covered one ear with his finger when the powerful sound blew out the green trumpet. William kept avoiding to give it a try, in order not to embarrass himself. After a while he reluctantly tried, producing a disappointing squelch on the green plastic trumpet. He commented “there you go, embarrassing myself again”.
Archbishop of 78 years old has a vuvuzela too, and hits back at calls of having the African horns banned from the World Cup games. He says the instruments add an atmosphere to the party.
But the vuvuzelas will not be heard at the Wimbeldon tennis championship, starting next Monday. Officials banned them yesterday because the deafening noise will distract the players.
Reaction:
Is it fair to have the vuvuzela banned for the Wimbeldon tennis championship and not for the big World Cup games? Does it have to do with the fact that prince William has his opinion and influence about this matter in the tennis games? I do agree the vuvuzelas are the cultural instruments of the Africans and that they give a cheering atmosphere to the games, but is it convenient for the players and referees to play under such noisy circumstances? I think it’s also turned into big business. Every fan shop has atleast a few of these trumpets, and if possible in more than one colour. If I compare the pro’s and con’s, then yes I do agree that the vuvuzelas should be banned from the World Cup games 2010. Especially in the tensioned final games!
Link:
http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/news/royals/3017749/Wills-blast-with-little-zela-fella.html
zondag 6 juni 2010
Britain history: Christian religion
Summary:
The British youngsters will not understand Britain’s history without the teaching of Christian religion; the foundation of most of Britain’s culture and traditions.
The Christian religion is indispensable in British history. Without some knowledge of it the history of Britain’s nation is incomprehensible. A report by Ofsted states, although a minimum required by the national curriculum, in many schools Christian religion instruction is “superficial”, and is treated less seriously than the study of other religions. This is from a result of a misplaced enthusiasm for “multiculturalism”, and a determination to include other faiths such as Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism and Sikhism, all of which the national curriculum requires pupils to study. However it’s also the ignorance of teachers themselves, having an uncertainty about what the teaching of Christianity should involve.
British youngsters have no chance of understanding the history of Britain, or its fundamental values of equality, toleration, and freedom of conscience, unless they also understand where those values came from.
Reaction:
From my own education, and not just because I am a Christian, I think it is very important to educate children with a knowledge of the Christian and other religions. Not just for the history of the nation but also for the values and moral-social living. It’s always good to know your roots and know history for social development and knowledge. Teachers should become more aware of the effect it has on young people not to educate Christian religion seriously and as the essential of the essential religion next to the other faiths. History is what maintains the culture and moral standards.
Link:
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/comment/telegraph-view/7806187/The-foundation-of-our-culture.html
The British youngsters will not understand Britain’s history without the teaching of Christian religion; the foundation of most of Britain’s culture and traditions.
The Christian religion is indispensable in British history. Without some knowledge of it the history of Britain’s nation is incomprehensible. A report by Ofsted states, although a minimum required by the national curriculum, in many schools Christian religion instruction is “superficial”, and is treated less seriously than the study of other religions. This is from a result of a misplaced enthusiasm for “multiculturalism”, and a determination to include other faiths such as Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism and Sikhism, all of which the national curriculum requires pupils to study. However it’s also the ignorance of teachers themselves, having an uncertainty about what the teaching of Christianity should involve.
British youngsters have no chance of understanding the history of Britain, or its fundamental values of equality, toleration, and freedom of conscience, unless they also understand where those values came from.
Reaction:
From my own education, and not just because I am a Christian, I think it is very important to educate children with a knowledge of the Christian and other religions. Not just for the history of the nation but also for the values and moral-social living. It’s always good to know your roots and know history for social development and knowledge. Teachers should become more aware of the effect it has on young people not to educate Christian religion seriously and as the essential of the essential religion next to the other faiths. History is what maintains the culture and moral standards.
Link:
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/comment/telegraph-view/7806187/The-foundation-of-our-culture.html
Robin Hood..speaking with an Irish accent?
Summary:
Film critics opinionated, leading role Russel Crowe, speaking with an Irish accent in the latest film Robin Hood.
However, the Australian actor speaks with an almost perfect and clear South Yorkshire accent in the film. History proves this is right, since Robin was a Yorkshireman- as every Tyke knows. Wakefield is known as the ‘Merrie’ City, because that is where Robin recruited his mob of men. Robin is as Yorkshire as pudding, or rhubarb. Robin Hood may have lived most of the time in Sherwood Forest over the border in Nottinghamshire, but he derived his values and mission from Tyke stroppiness.
In the film Russel-Robin is merely reclaiming an iconic figure for his own people. Nevertheless, our handsome former Gladiator actor pulled it off with his South Yorkshire accent proving once again he is not just a faithful warrior, but also very talented.
Reaction:
I haven’t even paid attention to which accent Crowe was speaking in the film. To me that’s a minor detail. I did notice that he performed very well with a dominating English accent, (although not sure of which counties) and without a trace of Australian affinities. I can imagine that film critics find anything to give a negative opinion about; it’s therefore why they are called film critics. I do must say that I thought Crowe was speaking with a Nottinghamshire accent but apparently I was wrong (oops). Now that I know, I can imagine that critics find Crowe’s accent sound Irish since the Yorkshire accent lies close to the Irish.
Link:
http://www.mirror.co.uk/news/columnists/routledge/2010/05/21/robin-hood-was-a-yorkshireman-you-know-115875-22272926/
Film critics opinionated, leading role Russel Crowe, speaking with an Irish accent in the latest film Robin Hood.
However, the Australian actor speaks with an almost perfect and clear South Yorkshire accent in the film. History proves this is right, since Robin was a Yorkshireman- as every Tyke knows. Wakefield is known as the ‘Merrie’ City, because that is where Robin recruited his mob of men. Robin is as Yorkshire as pudding, or rhubarb. Robin Hood may have lived most of the time in Sherwood Forest over the border in Nottinghamshire, but he derived his values and mission from Tyke stroppiness.
In the film Russel-Robin is merely reclaiming an iconic figure for his own people. Nevertheless, our handsome former Gladiator actor pulled it off with his South Yorkshire accent proving once again he is not just a faithful warrior, but also very talented.
Reaction:
I haven’t even paid attention to which accent Crowe was speaking in the film. To me that’s a minor detail. I did notice that he performed very well with a dominating English accent, (although not sure of which counties) and without a trace of Australian affinities. I can imagine that film critics find anything to give a negative opinion about; it’s therefore why they are called film critics. I do must say that I thought Crowe was speaking with a Nottinghamshire accent but apparently I was wrong (oops). Now that I know, I can imagine that critics find Crowe’s accent sound Irish since the Yorkshire accent lies close to the Irish.
Link:
http://www.mirror.co.uk/news/columnists/routledge/2010/05/21/robin-hood-was-a-yorkshireman-you-know-115875-22272926/
Teacher charged for Sellotaping students mouth shut gets suspension
Summary:
The General Teaching Council for England (GTC) heared teacher Sima Abramovitz for failing to keep her students under control and putting their health and safety at risk.
The teacher of Aldworth Science College in Basingstoke undergone charges of completing and dictating students' coursework, making inappropriate comments towards four pupils, screaming at another student and using inappropriate language in class. However after admitted that she has misbehaved herself, Ms Abramovitz didn’t receive a teaching ban. Instead she was told to attend a class management and planning course for a year next to a Conditional Registration Order. The panel also heard evidence that Abramovitz, who did not attend the hearing, had a medical condition and was taking medication.
Julie Churcher, head teacher at Aldworth, says that Ms Abramovitz 's problems were down to inadequate planning and preparation for lessons and "classroom management which would place her under considerable pressure" causing her to "react inappropriately".
Reaction:
I think its very disappointing to read that there are teachers who make terrible mistakes like these. I think there should be more educational and helpful resources for teachers. In these times it’s more difficult to teach to pupils because of the more liberal and less moral society. I would like to know how the parents of these pupils have reacted on this unacceptable act of this teacher. I do not agree with the “excuses” made for Ms Abramovitz; the inadequate planning and preparation for class. That she didn’t take her medication, I could understand. However, failure of adequate planning and preparation for class does not explain to me such an unprofessional and out of control behavior.
Link:
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/education/educationnews/7803192/Teacher-who-sellotaped-pupils-mouth-shut-escapes-suspension.html
The General Teaching Council for England (GTC) heared teacher Sima Abramovitz for failing to keep her students under control and putting their health and safety at risk.
The teacher of Aldworth Science College in Basingstoke undergone charges of completing and dictating students' coursework, making inappropriate comments towards four pupils, screaming at another student and using inappropriate language in class. However after admitted that she has misbehaved herself, Ms Abramovitz didn’t receive a teaching ban. Instead she was told to attend a class management and planning course for a year next to a Conditional Registration Order. The panel also heard evidence that Abramovitz, who did not attend the hearing, had a medical condition and was taking medication.
Julie Churcher, head teacher at Aldworth, says that Ms Abramovitz 's problems were down to inadequate planning and preparation for lessons and "classroom management which would place her under considerable pressure" causing her to "react inappropriately".
Reaction:
I think its very disappointing to read that there are teachers who make terrible mistakes like these. I think there should be more educational and helpful resources for teachers. In these times it’s more difficult to teach to pupils because of the more liberal and less moral society. I would like to know how the parents of these pupils have reacted on this unacceptable act of this teacher. I do not agree with the “excuses” made for Ms Abramovitz; the inadequate planning and preparation for class. That she didn’t take her medication, I could understand. However, failure of adequate planning and preparation for class does not explain to me such an unprofessional and out of control behavior.
Link:
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/education/educationnews/7803192/Teacher-who-sellotaped-pupils-mouth-shut-escapes-suspension.html
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