Spring
Break 2010
This week, Renuka gives us ideas for fun
activities to do over the spring break in Vancouver.
March 7, 2010
Olympic
Verbs and Adverbs
This week, Patricia writes another
sample paragraph on the Olympics. This time, she goes over the
use of verbs and adverbs. Includes two matching quizzes for
practice. February
28, 2010
The
Skytrain for the Olympics
This week, Patricia writes a
sample paragraph on the Olympics. Includes lots of samples of
verb tenses and a photo gallery taken at the Vancouver 2010
Winter Olympics. February
21, 2010
Learning to
Spell
This week, Louise gives us some advice on
how to improve our spelling. February
14, 2010
2010 Winter Olympic
Games
This week, L gathers all the information you
need to know to have a great time during Vancouver's 2010 Winter
Olympic Games. February 7, 2010
The Red Mittens
This week, Helen explains the significance
of red mittens to residents of Canada.
January 31, 2010
Laura
Secord: A Great Canadian
This week, Jennifer writes a short essay on Laura
Secord, a great Canadian connected to our celebration of Valentine's Day.
January 24, 2010
Vancouver: An
Earthquake Zone!
Dina gives us all a timely reminder after this
week's devastating events in Haiti.
January 17, 2010
New
Classroom Course: Law 12
Cheryl introduces us to her new classroom course:
Law 12. Counts as a 12 credit for adult graduation.
January 10, 2010
Welcome
to a New Decade
L goes over a personal resolution and includes
some tools to help you make your own.
January 3, 2010
Holiday
Activities
Trudi outlines a number of
interesting activities to help you enjoy your second week of
holidays!
December 26, 2009
The
Compare or Contrast Essay
Jennifer explains the complex processes behind a successful
comparison or contrast essay and includes an interesting sample
essay for study.
December 20, 2009
Global
Warming
Rick argues passionately for Canada and Canadians
to accept their global responsibility for climate change and do
more to fight the problem.
December 13, 2009
Holiday
Potluck Party
Renuka invites all students (day and evening) to
come, eat and socialize at our annual holiday potluck.
December 6, 2009
Our
Students and their Studies
Paul brings us a feature that explains the rich diversity of
the ALC. Includes links to further information and a
comprehension quiz.
November 29, 2009
November
Rains
Patricia reacts to our recent spell of bad weather. Includes sample
sentences and paragraphs and a matching quiz for practice.
November 22, 2009
Eating Well
with Canada's Food Guide
Louise shares a number of resources we can use to help make better food
choices in our lives.
November 15, 2009
H1N1: The
Swine Flu
Brad goes over some important information on this year's
unusual pandemic influenza.
November 8, 2009
Daylight
Saving Time
Helen is enthusiastic about today's
extra hour! Includes a number of interesting facts about daylight saving
time.
November 1, 2009
Annual Food
Bank Drive
Tazim launches her annual food bank
drive. Although her goals are modest this year—five boxes—last year we
collected seven!
October 22, 2009
October:
Power Smart Month
Want to save some money? Then read Dina's
feature this week!.
October 18, 2009
October:
Positive Thinking Month
Cheryl reminds us to stay positive.
October 11, 2009
To Park or
Not to Park
Brad reminds all students to respect teachers'
parking spaces.
October 4, 2009
Household
Budgets for Challenging Times
Trudi brings us important information on how families can meet the
challenges brought on by the recession. September 27, 2009
Work
Smarter, Not Harder!
Tazim introduces us to the idea of
different learning styles and provides a link where you can find out
your own. September 20, 2009
What is ICT?
Renuka answers the question and
introduces a brand new PALC course. September 13, 2009
Cancer: A
Personal Story
Rick brings us a personal account of a fight for survival. September 7, 2009
Making Our
Computer Lab Work for You
Paul outlines the many resources and
services available for students at our computer lab. September 1, 2009
Writing
Process Paragraphs
Patricia provides us with three sample process paragraphs.
Includes questions and answers on the various parts of a successful
paragraph.
August 20, 2009
Cycling in
Metro Vancouver
Louise advocates for cycling to take advantage of Vancouver's wonderful
summer weather.
August 16, 2009
Summer
Activities in Vancouver
L suggests a number of links to help you have more fun this summer in
Vancouver.
August 9, 2009
A Day at
the Beach; Summer Articles Practice
Jennifer goes over article use in English and
provides us with a cloze exercise for practice.
August 2, 2009
Accounting
Courses at the PALC
Helen goes over two key courses for accounting students: Accounting 11
and 12. Includes links to business programs in B.C. July
25, 2009
Summer Safety
2009
Dina provides us with a timely
reminder to take care of ourselves this sunny and warm summer. July 19, 2009
Canadian
Citizenship Test Information
Cheryl provides good links to help you
prepare for your citizenship test. Includes information on her course
offerings this school year. July 12, 2009
The Class of
2009: PALC Graduates
Tazim profiles some of our graduates and their
responses to questions about their graduation. July 4, 2009
Michael
Jackson (RIP)
Brad remembers Michael Jackson and points
us to two interesting articles about him. June 28, 2009
Summer Fun
2009
Trudi fills us in on interesting
summer activities. June 21, 2009
"The School
of Second Chances"
Rick points out a heartwarming Globe and Mail article about
Vancouver's successful adult program. June 14, 2009
A Special
Birthday
Renuka reminds us of a special 150th
birthday celebrated in New Westminster. June 7, 2009
On Colloquial
English
Paul's feature gives us a thorough look at
this informal kind of language. Includes a fill-in-the-blank practice
and links to more information May
31, 2009
Graduation
Patricia reviews our graduation ceremony
plans and honours our bursary recipients. May
24, 2009
Collocations (Words that Work Together)
Louise presents us with eight different
pairs and includes a fill-in-the-blank quiz for you to practice. May
17, 2009
Finding
Perspective
L suggests that keeping perspective can help us survive hard times. May
10, 2009
Snoring
and Other Sleep Problems
Jennifer takes a lighthearted look at a familiar problem. May
3, 2009
The Uros of
Lake Titicaca
Helen reflects on our material world as she recounts a visit to a unique
people.
April 27, 2009
Earth Day
Dina reminds us of an important day, celebrated around the planet.
April 19, 2009
BC's 39th Provincial Election
Cheryl gives full information to help you
to cast your vote in the upcoming provincial election.
April 12, 2009
Introducing TED
Brad introduces a fabulous online resource
for practicing listening while learning about new and exciting ideas.
April 5, 2009
Going Green: Using Colour in Writing
Trudi uses Earth Hour as a jumping off
point for a discussion on using colour in writing. March 29, 2009
Welcoming Spring and Staying Healthy
Tazim provides a timely reminder that spring can mean changes
in our lifestyle, too. March 22, 2009
Thoughts on Canadian Identity
Rick provides us with a thoughtful
meditation on Canadian identity. March 14, 2009
The Pearson Patter
Renuka introduces us to our bi-yearly student newsletter and
welcomes your submissions for our June issue. March 9, 2009
Solving Word Problems in Math
Paul gives us a thorough discussion of methods that will help you to
improve your problem solving skills in Math. Includes quiz links for
practice. March 1, 2009
Reading Resources at the PALC
Patricia points out some
key resources available to students to help them to improve their
reading skills. February
22, 2009
Canada's Provinces and Capital Cities
Louise
helps students to get ready for their social studies test. Includes
three practice quizzes. February
14, 2009
Using Verb Tenses Correctly
Patricia presents a complete set of sentence examples for all tenses
with the theme of shovelling snow. February
8, 2009
Prewriting and the Essay
Jennifer presents us with a method to make an essay better and
stronger. February 1, 2009
The Train of Death
Helen's amazing vacation adventures continue with her tale of "The
Train of Death." January 25, 2009
Family Literacy Week
Dina alerts us to the activities available
for Family Literacy Week. January 18, 2009
Hot Tea Month
Cheryl writes of her new found love for a hot cup of tea.
January 11, 2009
More Snow? Tales from Snowbound Vancouver
Brad writes about his experiences with a very snowy
holiday season in Vancouver.
January 3, 2009
Grade 10 Writers
Trudi features her Grade 10 English students writing
about family and dreams.
December 28, 2008
Christmas Giving
Jennifer suggests alternatives
to our usual holiday season consumerism.
December 21, 2008
Improving Your Skills Online
Rick gives us a comprehensive list of useful interactive
websites for improving reading, writing, listening and speaking skills
online.
December 14, 2008
English, English Everywhere
Renuka argues that students should
take English "beyond the classroom and into their daily lives."
December 7, 2008
Why Math?
Paul offers us compelling reasons why
our centre assesses every student's Math skills. Includes a quiz to
check your understanding.
November 30, 2008
Using Verb Tenses Correctly
Patricia goes over the many basic tenses available in
English. Includes a comprehensive list of
common verbs with full sentence examples.
November 21, 2008
Becoming a Better Reader
Louise introduces us to seven strategies
that will help you to become a better reader.
November 16, 2008
Remembrance Day
L shares with us the meaning of this somber
day. Includes two famous war poems for comparison.
November 9, 2008
Feed the Food Bank!
Tazim announces our annual Food Bank drive
to collect food for needy families.
November 2, 2008
My South American Vacation
Helen shares her many interesting
adventures from last summer! Includes photos taken on her trip.
October 26, 2008
Halloween Safety
Dina reviews important tips to help us
enjoy a safe and happy Halloween.
October 19, 2008
Elections and Voting
Cheryl reminds us of our democratic
responsibility to vote and that the federal election is not the only one
held this fall.
October 13, 2008
Teaching the New English Curriculum
Brad reflects on teaching to the new
standards for English 11 and 12 implemented this September.
October 5, 2008
Lives Touched by Cancer
Patricia's feature outlines concrete ways we can reach out to help those
affected by cancer by, for example, participating in the Terry Fox Run.
September 28, 2008
Reading and Listening Practice Online
Tazim introduces us to a fabulous
resource for students at all levels.
September 21, 2008
English 12: A Realistic View
Rick gives us a realistic view of the
difficulties and rewards of this challenging course.
September 15, 2008
A New Beginning—Again!
Renuka's
feature welcomes us all back to the new beginnings
represented by a new school year.
September 7, 2008
Tuition Free Courses for Graduates
Paul's
feature outlines the new Ministry of Education policy
that provides tuition free education to students who have already
graduated from high school.
August 30, 2008
Lucy Maud Montgomery's Anne of Green Gables
Patricia's
feature gives us a brief outline of a famous Canadian
author. Includes a sample paragraph and demonstration of compound and
complex sentences.
August 24, 2008
Read this Summer to Improve Your Writing
Louise's
feature encourages students to use the summer break
to read new books and to, as a result, improve their writing.
August 17, 2008
Working with Computers: Data
Management 12
L's feature introduces us to his new course that
offers a Grade 12 credit and many useful computer skills.
August 10, 2008
Who is Simon Jackson?
Jennifer's feature answers the question of
just who, exactly, is Simon Jackson.
August 3, 2008
The Grouse Grind
Helen's feature encourages everyone to give
the challenging hike, the Grouse Grind, a try!
July 27, 2008
Summer Safety
Dina's feature reminds us to take care now that summer is
finally here!.
July 19, 2008
Civic Studies 11
Cheryl's feature outlines her fall course
offering.
July 13, 2008
Addicted to Oil?
Brad's
feature examines his personal oil addiction and ideas for recovery.
July 6, 2008
Water Conservation
Tazim's
feature reminds us of the importance of conserving water resources.
June 30, 2008
Canada Day Paragraphs
Rick's
feature demonstrates how paragraphs change depending on their purpose
and audience.
June 24, 2008
Reading Myths
L's
feature explains ways to increase your reading speed while, at the same
time, increasing comprehension.
June 15, 2008
Keeping Up With the News
Paul's
feature outlines the rich and varied resources he uses to stay informed.
Includes a comprehension quiz on his article.
June 8, 2008
Getting Ready for the Certificate Tests
Patricia's feature gives a complete overview of the upcoming
tests written by English 4 through 10 students. Includes links to many
resources to help you get ready!
June 1, 2008
Michael J. Fox: Hometown Hero
Pat introduces us to a locally born man
recently given an honorary law degree at the University of British
Columbia. May 25,
2008
Canada's Provinces and Capital Cities
Louise provides great information for
Social Studies students studying for their certificate tests. Includes
quiz links to test yourself. May 18,
2008
What Teachers do on Professional Days
Jennifer fills in students on the important benefits of teacher
professional days. May 3,
2008
Wonderful Reading for Students
Helen's feature points out some
new, and wonderful, reading materials available at the lab. April
27,
2008
Siamese Fighting Fish
Dina's feature
informs us about the beautiful and interesting Betta. April
20,
2008
Emergency Procedures
Cheryl's feature comments on last Thursday's
lockdown at the high school and reminds us of the necessity for safe
procedures. April 13,
2008
Teaching Film
Brad's feature discusses his use of film in senior
English classes. Includes links to resources
teachers may use in a film unit. April 6,
2008
Cancer Prevention
Tazim's feature helps us to better understand and prevent
cancer, a dangerous and prevalent disease.
March 29, 2008
My Helpful Friend
Renuka writes of her most helpful friend, one that finds
answers for her every time.
March 16, 2008
Writing for Whom?
Paul's feature points out the
critical importance to writers of being aware of audience, the "whom" we
write for.
March 9, 2008
Confusing Gerunds
Patricia's feature discusses the gerund
noun, a useful but confusing part of English grammar. Includes examples
to test your knowledge and links to other resources. March 2, 2008
February: Heart Month
Pat's feature asks us, "How heart
smart are you?" Includes links to a quiz and more information to help
you stay healthy. February
24, 2008
Prepositions: Time, Location and Wearing
Louise's feature links to a number of
useful quizzes to help you practice the correct use of prepositions. February
17, 2008
Ratatouille, Reflections, Resolutions and the Year
of the Rat
L's feature links the box office
sensation, Ratatouille, and the Year of the Rat. February
8, 2008
Mirror Images: Essay Introductions and Conclusions
Jennifer's feature gives us a useful
practice template and instructions for writing excellent essay
introductions and conclusions. February 3, 2008
4 Weeks into 2008
Helen's feature helps us to reflect on our
recent resolutions for the new year and points us to more resources to
help us keep them!
January 28, 2008
Chinese New Year
Dina's feature introduces us to Chinese New
Year and explains the 12 animal calendar and this year, the year of the
rat.
January 21, 2008
January: Hot Tea Month
Cheryl's feature explains her resolution to
drink more tea this year and links us to interesting information on this
popular beverage.
January 13, 2008
Weekly Feature (Brad):
Using a Writeboard to Teach Writing
Brad's feature explains a powerful tool he uses to
assist students with the difficult process of learning to write.
January 6, 2008
Weekly Feature (Tazim):
Winter Break Fun
Tazim's feature will help give you good ideas for
the second holiday week from school.
December 30, 2007
Weekly Feature (Rick):
Learning to Write with "The March of the Penguins"
Rick's
feature demonstrates different paragraph
styles (summary, comparison, narrative) based on information from the
film.
December 23, 2007
Weekly Feature (Renuka):
Time Well Spent
Renuka's feature gives us some practical
ideas on managing our time while, at the same time, cautioning us not to
go overboard.
December 16, 2007
Weekly Feature (Paul):
The Richmond Speed Skating Oval
Paul's feature fills us in on one of our new 2010 Winter
Olympics facilities. Includes a new interactive quiz to test your
knowledge.
December 9, 2007
Weekly Feature (Patricia):
Winter Words
Patricia's
feature encourages students to expand their
winter vocabulary. Includes four matching quizzes to help you.
December 2, 2007
Weekly Feature (Pat):
Commonly Confused Words
Pat's
feature points out the differences between
similarly spelled words with very different meanings.
November 25, 2007
Weekly Feature (Louise):
Affiliation and Description Prepositions
Louise's feature gives students excellent
information and practice on a most difficult part of English. Includes
two quizzes to test your knowledge.
November 18, 2007
Weekly Feature (L):
Implications of a Strong Canadian Dollar
L's feature discusses the pros and cons of
the Canadian dollar's recent rise against other world currencies.
November 11, 2007
Weekly Feature (Jennifer):
Sentence Combining: Coordination and Subordination
Jennifer's feature gives plenty of
background and examples for the critical skills of coordinating and
subordinating ideas in your sentences.
November 5, 2007
Weekly Feature (Helen):
How Can I Find Time to Do My Homework?
Helen's feature offers sympathy for
students working and taking classes at the same time.
October 28, 2007
Weekly Feature (Dina):
Halloween's Here!
Dina's feature gives us a list
of safety tips and links to more information on making your Halloween
celebration even better this year!.
October 21, 2007
Weekly Feature (Cheryl):
BCs New Lieutenant Governor
Cheryl's feature introduces us to the first
aboriginal Lieutenant Governor in BC history.
October 15, 2007
Weekly Feature (Brad):
I am Thankful
Brad's feature on Thanksgiving Day outlines
some of the things he is thankful for in his life.
October 7, 2007
Weekly Feature (Paul):
Canadian Thanksgiving
Paul's feature from 2006 outlines the
unique traditions of a Canadian Thanksgiving. Includes a quiz to test
your knowledge.
September 30, 2007
Weekly Feature (Rick):
The Curse of the Cell Phone
Rick undertakes a close examination of cell
phones and argues that their addictiveness could cause problems.
September 24, 2007
Weekly Feature (Renuka):
From Studying to Snoring
Renuka reminds us to remember our sleep
health at the start of a busy school year. Includes a number of common
sleep idioms for study.
September 16, 2007
Weekly Feature (Paul):
Hurricane Season and Travel
Paul's recent experience with a cancelled
vacation to Mexico makes clear the dangers of travelling during
hurricane season.
September 9, 2007
Weekly Feature (Patricia):
Ready or Not!
Patricia brings us up-to-date information
on courses offered and registration dates and times for new students.
September 2, 2007
Weekly Feature (Pat):
B.C. Blueberries
Pat outlines the health
benefits and provides tasty links for this important B.C. summer berry
crop.
August 26, 2007
Weekly Feature (Louise):
Weather and Source of Information Prepositions
Louise helps students to learn
these two important prepositions uses and includes two online quizzes to
help you test your ability.
August 19, 2007
Weekly Feature (L):
Never
Get Lost Again or, How to Save Your Marriage and Sanity Anywhere in
Canada and the U.S.
L describes his recent travel experiences, much aided
by the use of an in-car Global Positioning System.
August 12, 2007
Weekly Feature (Jennifer):
Shakespeare Alfresco: Bard on the Beach
Jennifer fills us in on Vancouver's annual summer
Shakespeare Festival.
August 5, 2007
Weekly Feature (Helen):
Tennis Anyone?
Helen makes a good case for
either playing or watching tennis this summer.
July 30,
2007
Weekly Feature (Dina):
Keeping Freshwater Fish: The Pleco
Dina's at home hobbies include
keeping a unique freshwater fish, the Pleco.
July 22,
2007
Weekly Feature (Cheryl):
Fireworks!
Cheryl gives information on the Celebration
of Light, Vancouver's international fireworks competition held each
summer at English Bay.
July 16,
2007
Weekly Feature (Brad):
A Man Who Planted Trees
Brad's feature focuses on some big changes
happening in his own neighbourhood. July 8,
2007
Weekly Feature (Tazim):
Anyone for Ice Cream? An Update
Tazim's feature updates Paul's from last year with a tasty ice
cream suggestion in Vancouver. June 24, 2007
Weekly Feature (Rick):
Sample Persuasive Essay
Rick's feature takes the form of a persuasive essay/movie review
on the recent release, "Fantastic Four." June 18, 2007
Weekly Feature (Paul):
The Writing Process
Paul's feature gives a complete overview of the writing process.
Includes a quiz to test yourself and other valuable online links to help
you prepare for the upcoming tests. June 10, 2007
Weekly Feature (Patricia):
Getting Ready for the Certificate Tests
Patricia's feature gives a complete overview of the upcoming
tests written by English 4 through 10 students. Includes links to many
resources to help you get ready! June 3, 2007
Weekly Feature (Pat):
Lynn Canyon Park
Pat's feature highlights the many delights to be found in North
Vancouver's Lynn Canyon Park.
May 27, 2007
Weekly Feature (Louise):
Victoria Day
Louise's feature outlines the
history of the Victoria Day holiday and includes links to local events
and celebrations.
May 20, 2007
Weekly Feature (Helen):
What Can I Do to Save the Earth?
Helen's feature gives us practical tips and
a wealth of Web links to help everyone contribute to helping save the
earth.
May 6, 2007
Weekly Feature (Dina):
Emergency Preparedness Week
Dina's feature reminds us to be
prepared for an emergency where we need to supply our own needs for up
to 72 hours.
April 29, 2007
Weekly Feature (Cheryl):
Our Earth
Cheryl's feature reminds us of the awesome power of the earth,
focusing on a nearby volcano, Mount Baker.
April 22, 2007
Weekly Feature (Brad):
Teaching the "Write" Way (Update)
Brad's feature updates us on the progress made by the Writing 12
students this term.
April 15, 2007
Weekly Feature (Trudi):
Earth Day and Week 2007
Trudi's feature reminds us to participate
in this ever more important event!
April 8, 2007
Weekly Feature (Helen):
My Mother's Chocolate Chip Cookies
Helen's feature gives us some family
background and, best of all, a chocolate chip cookie recipe to try!
April 1, 2007
Weekly Feature (Rick):
Science in the Kitchen
Rick's feature outlines his scientific
approach to the contents of his refrigerator.
March
25, 2007
Weekly Feature (Paul):
Spelling in English
Paul's feature gives a wealth of detail and
resources to help you become a better speller. Includes multiple links
to quizzes and other Web resources.
March 18, 2007
Weekly Feature (Patricia):
Writing a Descriptive Paragraph
Patricia's feature demonstrates writing a
descriptive paragraph. Includes photos taken at New Westminster Quay.
March 11, 2007
Weekly Feature (Pat):
Daylight Saving Time
Pat's feature fills us in on the upcoming
time change, coming a full month earlier this year! Includes full
information on why we change our clocks.
March 4, 2007
Weekly Feature (Louise):
Canada's Provinces and Capital
Cities
Louise's feature will help
Social Studies students to memorize the names of our provinces and
capitals. Includes links to three quizzes. February
25, 2007
Weekly Feature (L):
Overweight in Vancouver
L's feature outlines his plan to lose some weight.
Includes a vocabulary exercise for practice. February
18, 2007
Weekly Feature (Tazim):
Canada's New Food Guide
Tazim draws our attention to the recent
update to Canada's Food Guide and provides links to help you choose
better foods for a healthier life. February
11, 2007
Weekly Feature (Dina):
Valentine's Day
Dina's feature gives detailed information on the origins and
meaning of this day for lovers.
February 4, 2007
Weekly Feature (Cheryl):
Groundhog Day
Cheryl's feature gives us the origins of this week's special day. Do you know what happens if the groundhog sees its
shadow?
January
28, 2007
Weekly Feature (Brad):
Courses for Next Semester
Brad's feature gives information on Grade 11 and 12
courses available in the spring semester.
January
21, 2007
Weekly Feature (Trudi):
Family Literacy Day
Trudi's feature gives us a wealth of detail on important
steps you can take to ensure your family has a high level of literacy.
January
14, 2007
Weekly Feature (Tazim):
The Heart and Stroke Foundation
Tazim's feature points us to a wealth of timely health
information to keep ourselves healthy in the New Year.
January
6, 2007
Weekly Feature (Paul):
Understanding English Words
Paul's feature gives a four-step approach to
understanding new English vocabulary. Links to quizzes and other
excellent resources.
December 24, 2006
Weekly Feature (Patricia):
Vivid Verbs
Patricia's feature, originally published in November
2004, is one of the top ten pages at the PALC Web site. Links to two
challenging quizzes and a worksheet.
December 17, 2006
Weekly Feature (Louise):
Eat Well and Keep Active
Louise's feature reminds us to watch our health in this
dark and rainy season. Includes links to Canadian Government sites for
further study.
December 10, 2006
Weekly Feature (Pat):
Holiday Fun in Vancouver
Pat's feature points out some fun opportunities for the
holidays.
December 3, 2006
Weekly Feature (L):
More Career Choices
L's feature outlines more ideas for launching a
successful career, including links to excellent Web resources.
November 26, 2006
Weekly Feature (Helen M.):
Throw Away that Translator!
Helen M's feature gives her personal experience in
learning a second language and a strong argument for giving up
translation as a tool for learning a language.
November 19, 2006
Weekly Feature (Helen H.):
Canucks are Us, Eh!
Helen's feature outlines the history of the word
"Canuck," used to identify Canadians since the 1800s. Includes
two vocabulary quizzes for practice.
November 12, 2006
Weekly Feature (Dina):
Remembrance Day
Dina reminds us of the importance of this upcoming
holiday.
November 5, 2006
Weekly Feature (Cheryl):
Support the Food Bank
Cheryl kicks off our annual Food Bank drive. Let's beat
last years record!
October 30, 2006
Weekly Feature (Brad):
Teaching the "Write" Way
Brad's feature offers us an inside look at the new
Writing 12 class.
October 24, 2006
Weekly Feature (Rick):
Writing Better Paragraphs
Rick's feature helps students understand this
essential form of writing. Includes an amusing apology paragraph for
being late!
October 17, 2006
Weekly Feature (Paul):
Canadian Thanksgiving
Paul's feature gives us a thorough account of our
tradition. Includes a comprehension quiz, two online quizzes and links
to further resources.
October 8, 2006
Weekly Feature (Patricia):
Falling Maple Leaves
Patricia's feature demonstrates correct paragraph
structure. Includes links to information on Canada's national symbol.
October 1, 2006
Weekly Feature (Pat):
Using Coordinating Conjunctions
Pat's feature gives us full detail on writing more
successful long sentences. Includes links to two quizzes for practice.
September
24, 2006
Weekly Feature (Louise):
Becoming a Better Reader
Louise's feature outlines seven strategies for
becoming a better reader.
September 17, 2006
Weekly Feature (L):
Success and Shifting Perspectives
L's feature helps us understand the different ways
Canadians view success.
September 10, 2006
Weekly Feature (Helen):
Study Habits for Success
Helen's feature encourages students to improve
their study habits.
August 27, 2006
Weekly Feature (Dina):
The Moon
Dina fills us in on our nearest neighbour, the
moon. August 20, 200
Weekly Feature (Cheryl):
Civics Studies 11
Cheryl's feature gives her students a head start
for her fall course offering. August 13, 2006
Weekly Feature (Rick):
Writer's Block
Rick offers an explanation for his missed July
feature. August 6, 2006
Weekly Feature (Trudi):
Tips for the Heat
Trudi's tips help us to cope with our
recent hot weather.
July 30, 2006
Weekly Feature (Brad):
A Cougar on Denman?
Brad's vacation visit to Denman Island included stories
of a cougar on the prowl.
July 24, 2006
Weekly Feature (Tazim):
Celebration of Light
Tazim's feature alerts us to the upcoming fireworks
celebrations held at English Bay.
July 15, 2006
Weekly Feature (Paul):
Anyone for Ice Cream?
Paul gives us interesting information on a favourite
summer treat. Includes a short quiz to test your knowledge!
July 9, 2006
Weekly Feature (Pat):
Summer Solstice: June 21, 2006
Pat explains the solstice and links us to a number of
resources and quizzes.
June 25, 2006
Weekly Feature (L):
Reflections of Fatherhood on Father's Day
L ponders the difference between his and his father's
experiences of fatherhood.
June 20, 2006
Weekly Feature (Louise):
Travel
Louise brings us an exercise on writing about travel.
Includes an extensive list of travel vocabulary.
June 13, 2006
Weekly Feature (Jennifer):
Change
Jennifer, who leaves the PALC at the end of June, writes
on life changes.
June 4, 2006
Weekly Feature (Helen):
Spirit Bears Make a Difference
Helen's feature brings us up to date on the Spirit
Bear exhibits in Vancouver.
May 28, 2006
Weekly Feature (Dina):
Summer Sun
Dina's feature give us some background on our amazing sun
and warns us to be careful, too!
May 21, 2006
Weekly Feature (Cheryl):
Victoria Day
Cheryl's feature outlines the origins of this weekend's
holiday. Includes links to local events.
May 16, 2006
Weekly Feature (Brad):
Nine Nights in Paris
Brad's feature, written at Paris's Charles de Gaulle
airport, reflects on his recent trip to Paris.
May 10, 2006
Weekly Feature (Barb):
None of us is as smart as all of us
Barb's feature outlines the benefits of group work for
better essay preparation.
April 29, 2006
Weekly Feature (Trudi):
Descriptive Paragraphs: Student Examples
Trudi's English 10 students demonstrate a
variety of descriptive techniques. All paragraphs are based on the
character, William, from the story, "All Summer in a Day."
April 23, 2006
Weekly Feature (Tazim):
Canadian Blood Services
Tazim reminds us of a most important service
for all Canadians.
April 16, 2006
Weekly Feature (Rick):
"A Great Day" Four Sample Paragraphs
Rick's feature gives us four types:
comparison, description, process and narrative.
April 10, 2006
Weekly Feature (Paul):
April Fool's Day
Paul's feature explains April Fool's Day. No
fooling!
April 1, 2006
Weekly Feature (Patricia):
Florida Oranges
Patricia brings us a feature from Florida,
including a sample paragraph and photos from her vacation!
March 26, 2006
Weekly Feature (Pat):
National Nutrition Month
Pat gives us a wealth of links and
explanations for the most important topic of all!
March 19, 2006
Weekly Feature (Louise):
Alliteration
Louise's feature looks at this powerful poetic technique.
March 15, 2006
Weekly Feature (L):
Reading at the Right Level
L's feature helps you to select the best reading material
to suit your own reading level.
March 6, 2006
Weekly Feature (Jennifer):
Black History Month
Jennifer's feature explains how black slaves escaped to
Canada on the famous "Underground Railroad."
February 26, 2006
Weekly Feature (Helen):
B.C.'s Spirit Bear
Helen fills us in on this rare animal, now an important
provincial symbol for British Columbia.
February 19, 2006
Weekly Feature (Dina):
Heart Month
Dina reminds us all to remember our hearts when eating our
Valentine's chocolates!
February 12, 2006
Weekly Feature (Cheryl):
Valentine's Day
Cheryl gives us both a historic and personal account of the
celebration of love.
February 5, 2006
Weekly Feature (Brad):
Teaching the Personal Narrative Essay
Brad gives his account of a narrative essay unit
used in English 11 this term. Includes links to useful resources.
January 29, 2006
Weekly Feature (Barb):
You
Barb gives a heartfelt tribute to her students at
the PALC.
January 22, 2006
Weekly Feature (Trudi):
Family Literacy Day: January 27
Trudi fills us in with many interesting facts on family
literacy.
January 15, 2006
Weekly Feature (Tazim):
Volunteering in Your Community
Tazim encourages students to get involved in community
through volunteering.
January 7, 2006
Weekly Feature (Rick):
Canada Needs a Tropical Island
Rick argues for an 11th province, with tropical
heat and good ocean swimming! January 1, 2006
Weekly Feature (Paul):
About Boxing Day
Ever wonder about the Canadian public holiday, Boxing
Day? Paul fills us in and provides us with a crossword to check
vocabulary and comprehension, too!
December 24, 2005
Weekly Feature (Patricia):
Holiday Studies
Patricia reminds students to keep up with course work
over the holidays. She includes a sample paragraph, "Snow in Queen's
Park" to help your studies.
December 18, 2005
Weekly Feature (Pat):
Holiday Activities
Pat points out web sites
that will help you find holiday fun in Vancouver this holiday season.
December 11, 2005
Weekly Feature (Louise):
Snow Similes
Louise
gives us some sample similes and then challenges us to write ten more!
December 4, 2005
Weekly Feature (L):
The Writing Contract
L
outlines the most important
contract for aspiring writers: the one between the writer and his or her
reader. November 27, 2005
Weekly Feature (Jennifer):
Christmas Giving
Jennifer suggests alternatives
to our usual holiday season consumerism. November 19,
2005
Weekly Feature (Helen):
Successful Job Interviews
Helen outlines three important steps
to ensure a successful job interview. November 13,
2005
Weekly Feature (Dina):
Diabetes Awareness Month
Dina gives us the details about this common condition
affecting two million Canadians. November 5,
2005
Weekly Feature (Cheryl):
2005: Year of the Veteran
Cheryl fill us in on this year's important themes and
gives information on Remembrance Day.
October 30,
2005
Weekly Feature (Brad):
Welcome Back Everyone!
Brad welcomes students and staff back to school tomorrow.
October
23, 2005
Weekly Feature (Trudi):
Canadian Thanksgiving
Trudi fills us in on next
weekend's holiday.
October 1,
2005
Weekly Feature (Tazim):
Practice Sentences with Skillswise
Tazim points out an excellent sentence and grammar
practice site for students.
September 25,
2005
Weekly Feature (Rick):
On Being a New Dad
Rick's wry and personal essay outlines the life-changing experience of
fatherhood.
September 21,
2005
Weekly Feature (Patricia):
A New School Site
Patricia fills us in on our new school site.
September 3,
2005
Weekly Feature (Paul):
Canada's Next Governor General
Paul's feature fills us in on our next Governor General,
a truly interesting woman.
August 26,
2005
Weekly Feature (Pat):
Health Information on the Web
Pat's feature points out a fabulous Canadian resource
to help make Internet health searches
more accurate and reliable.
August 21,
2005
Weekly Feature (Louise):
Read this Summer: Improve Your Writing Too!
Louise's feature outlines a useful approach to improving your writing:
reading more! Includes suggestions for finding a good book.
August 15,
2005
Weekly Feature (L):
Vancouver on the Cheap
L's feature helps us to get the best deals in Vancouver this summer.
August 7,
2005
Weekly Feature (Jennifer):
The Essay: Part Three
The final installment of Jennifer's three-part series on the essay.
July 31,
2005
Weekly Feature (Helen):
Road Safety: Be Calm, Be Aware, Be Courteous
Helen provides us with timely
reminders about driving safely, particularly important in the busy
summer driving season.
July 24,
2005
Weekly Feature (Dina):
Food Safety
Dina outlines some simple rules
to help keep food safe at summer barbecues and picnics.
July 16,
2005
Weekly Feature (Cheryl):
Summer 2005
Cheryl remembers past (and
warmer) summers fondly. Let's hope the sun comes out soon!
July 9,
2005
Weekly Feature (Brad):
Working at the ALC
Brad's feature pays tribute to a great bunch of
ALC teachers.
June 24,
2005
Weekly Feature (Teresa):
Summer Sun Safety
Teresa's feature contains lots
of timely reminders about the summer sun.
June 19,
2005
Weekly Feature (Rick):
Teen Slang
Rick's interesting feature will help parents to
understand their teenage children.
June 6,
2005
Weekly Feature (Paul):
Asian Heritage Month
Paul fills us in on Asian Heritage Month, the
many countries represented, and Canada's special links to Asia.
May 30,
2005
Weekly Feature (Patricia):
Fun Runs
Patricia demonstrates the standard paragraph and
fills us in on a great way to have fun while helping the community.
May 22,
2005
Weekly Feature (Pat):
History of Victoria Day Weekend
Pat fills us in on the history of the upcoming
long weekend and provides a comprehensive list of activities all may
enjoy.
May 15,
2005
Weekly Feature (Louise):
Cinquains
Louise provides us with two easy recipes to learn
how to write a cinquain. Includes six example poems.
May 8,
2005
Weekly Feature (L):
Career Choices - Tough Choices?
L makes some good suggestions for "out
of the box" thinking on careers.
May 1,
2005
Weekly Feature (Jennifer):
The Essay: Part Two
Jennifer continues her feature on the essay
with important information on ordering ideas.
April 24,
2005
Weekly Feature (Helen):
Terry Fox: A Coin for a Canadian
Hero
Helen fills us in on the 25th anniversary of the
Marathon of Hope. Includes a vocabulary matching quiz. April 17,
2005
Weekly Feature (Cheryl):
Dental Health Month
Ever had a toothache or a filling? Take good care of
your teeth by following Cheryl's useful advice and avoid problems with
your teeth!
April 10,
2005
Weekly Feature (Dina):
Math Awareness Month
Dina fills us in on Math Awareness Month and
points out some fun and interesting Internet resources.
April 3,
2005
Weekly Feature (Jennifer):
The Essay: Part One
Jennifer gives us details on SABOC, Select,
Audience, Brainstorm, Communicate. Includes a sample essay on ice cream.
Yummy!
March 26,
2005
Weekly Feature (Brad):
Easter 2005
Brad gives some Easter memories and points out some
Internet sites for those who'd like to learn more.
March 20,
2005
Weekly Feature (Tazim):
Family Fun in Vancouver
Tazim points out a great Web resource to help
families choose exciting activities during the upcoming Spring Break.
March 13,
2005
Weekly Feature (Rick):
Web Sites I Enjoy
Rick has done great research and
found a number of excellent web sites to help adult learning.
March 6,
2005
Weekly Feature (Paul):
Canada's Fight to Stop Smoking
Paul's well-researched feature gives
us solid evidence for quitting this dangerous habit.
February 27, 2005
Weekly Feature (Patricia):
Birds at Deer Lake
Patricia writes a demonstration paragraph.
Includes photos taken at Deer Lake.
February 19,
2005
Weekly Feature (Pat):
Valentine's Day
Pat's feature
includes great links to idioms, quizzes and more on Valentine's Day.
February 12, 2005
Weekly Feature (Helen):
Business Idioms
Helen gives us a list of common
business idioms. Includes a self-marking quiz to test yourself.
February 6, 2005
Weekly Feature (L):
Chinese New Year 4702
L fills us in on the Blind Rooster
Year, celebrated on February 9, a year especially dangerous for lovers!
January 30, 2005
Weekly Feature (Brad):
Four Tools for Better Writing
Brad gives us his personal opinion on four
essential tools good writers need to use.
January 23, 2005
Weekly Feature (Louise):
Acrostic Poetry
Louise gives us a complete how-to-do-it for this
ancient form of poetry. Includes examples!
January 16, 2005
Weekly Feature (Dina):
Blood Donation
Have you ever donated blood? If so, you're rarer
than you think! Dina fills us in on this essential activity.
January
9,
2005
Weekly Feature:
2005: A New Beginning
Cheryl outlines some of her resolutions for the
new year and gives us a list of some of people's common resolutions.
January 3, 2005
Special Feature:
What's New on our Navigation Menus
New changes to our navigation menus
help you get around the site even more easily than before! Includes
example graphics to show you where to find new menu items.
January 4, 2005
Special Feature:
Helping Tsunami Victims in Asia
Links to sites on the Web where you can donate
money to aid the millions of people in need.
December
29
Weekly Feature (Brad):
Preparing for a Family Christmas
Brad shares his holiday preparations and wishes
us all a joyous season.
December 24, 2004
Weekly Feature (Trudi):
Lights in Winter
Holidays 2004
Trudi has revised and improved on her
feature on the lights of winter holidays. December
18, 2004
Weekly Feature (Tazim):
Holiday Fun
Now that the Certificate Tests are
almost over, Tazim suggests we take the time for some holiday fun in the
Vancouver region. December 11, 2004
Weekly Feature (Rick):
Comic Book Heroes
Rick gives us a personal account of
his love of comics, including a strong argument for their value in
helping us learn to read. December 4,
2004
Weekly Feature (Patricia):
Vivid Verbs
Patricia demonstrates the power of
vivid verbs and provides us with two quizzes to test our knowledge.
November 20,
2004
Weekly Feature (Pat):
Personal Counselling at the PALC
Pat outlines the important services
offered to students by our counsellor, Jane Osborne.
November 13,
2004
Weekly Feature (Louise):
Collocations: Word Pairs
Louise explains and demonstrates this
important vocabulary term. Find examples and a quiz to help you learn
them!
November 6,
2004
Weekly Feature (L):
Career Week
L reminds us that this
coming week is career week in Canada. In its honour, our career
counsellor, Elaine, will hold an information session for interested
students. October
31,
2004
Weekly Feature (Jennifer):
Emily Murphy: Person
Jennifer gives us the inspiring story of Canada's
first female judge: Emily Murphy. October 24, 2004
Weekly Feature (Helen):
The United Nations
Helen gives us lots of information on
the UN. Did you know it's United Nations Day on October 24th?
Includes two vocabulary matching quizzes.
October
18, 2004
Weekly Feature (Dina):
Ramadan
Dina introduces us to this Islamic tradition, due to
begin on October 15 this year. October
10, 2004
Weekly Feature (Cheryl):
Canadian Thanksgiving
Cheryl
explains the difference between the Canadian and American
celebrations. October 2, 2004
Weekly Feature (Brad):
Learn CPR: Save a Life!
Did you know that, in Seattle (3
hours from Vancouver), almost every citizen knows CPR and could save the
life of a heart attack victim? Find out more about this lifesaving
technique. September 26
Weekly Feature (Trudi):
Fall Equinox
Trudi explains
the equinox and points us to good information on the Web.
September 19
Weekly Feature (Tazim):
Back to School
Tazim points out useful information at the B.C. Ministry
of Education for adult students. September 11,
2004
Weekly Feature (Paul):
The City of Richmond (B.C.,
Canada)
Paul gives us lots of interesting
information on the city, home to our airport and more.
August 29,
2004
Weekly Feature (Patricia):
The Triathlon
Patricia gives us a lively account of
this interesting Olympic sport. Competition is on August 25 and 26.
August
21, 2004
Weekly Feature (Pat):
The Olympic
Games: Athens 2004
Pat outlines the history of the modern
games and points us to great resources for this year's games. August
14, 2004
Weekly Feature (Louise):
"Here's Looking at You, Kid"
Useful Idioms
Louise defines and gives examples for
common idioms using the word, "look." Includes a quiz to to do a self
test. August 7
Weekly Feature (Tazim):
Earthquake Preparedness
Tazim notes the two
recent quakes in B.C. and provides timely emergency information.
July 31, 2004
Weekly Feature (Helen):
Roll Up Your Sleeves Canada
Helen reminds us all of the critical
importance of donating blood to others, especially in the summer. July 18,
2004
Weekly Feature (Dina):
Summer Safety
Dina fills us in on important tips
for staying safe while enjoying summer activities.
July 11,
2004
Weekly Feature (Cheryl): Forest Fires 2004
Cheryl outlines the dangers of a very
dangerous fire season in British Columbia this year. Find out
how to prevent fires and enjoy the forest safely this summer. July
4, 2004
Weekly Feature (Pat):
Summer Solstice 2004
Pat fills us in on the longest day of our year: the
Summer Solstice. June 20, 2004
Weekly Feature (Helen):
Canada's Federal Elections
Information on Canada's Federal Elections, to be held
on June 28. June 5, 2004
Weekly Feature (Tazim):
Adjectives and Adverbs
Spice up your writing with this feature from Tazim.
Includes a link to more information for further study. May 29,
2004
Weekly Feature (Dina):
Victoria Day
Dina explains the origins and history of this weekend's
holiday. May 22, 2004
Weekly Feature (L):
Using Articles in Grammar (Part 2)
L continues his two-part series on article use. Now,
find out about the exceptions to Rule 1! Includes a quiz to test your
knowledge. May 17, 2004
Weekly Feature (L):
Using Articles in Grammar (Part 1)
L gives all students a useful lesson in preventing
their most common error: incorrect use of English articles. This week, Rule
#1: A singular count noun must always have an article! May 9
Weekly Feature (Paul):
Mother's Day
Paul outlines the fascinating history of the most
important celebration for any mother. May 2,
2004
Weekly Feature (Tazim):
Commas
Tazim points out an interesting link to information on
using commas. April 25, 2004
Weekly Feature (Brad):
Earth Day
Brad has updated Helen's feature on Earth Day, held
this year on April 22. April 17
Weekly Feature (Carey):
Daylight Saving Time
An updated feature from one of our former teachers,
Carey gives us a comprehensive look at the facts and history of Daylight
Saving Time. April 3, 2004
Weekly Feature (Pat):
April Fool's Day
Don't get caught by surprise! Read all about April
Fool's Day here. No fooling! March 27, 2004
Weekly Feature (Cheryl):
Spring Days and the Arts
Cheryl encourages all parents (and the young at heart!) to take part
in some local activities celebrating spring. March 20,
2004
Weekly Feature (Dina):
Saint Patrick's Day
Dina explains the history of Saint Patrick's day,
celebrated on March 17 every year. March 15,
2004
Weekly Feature (Louise):
Semicolons
Louise brings us the rules of the semicolon. Includes
two quizzes to test your knowledge. March 7,
2004
Weekly Feature (Helen):
International Women's Day
Helen brings us information on a worldwide celebration
of women's rights. Did you know that Canadian women once fought for the
right to be a "person" in the eyes of the law? February 28,
2004
Weekly Feature (Dina):
Nutrition Month
Dina reminds us to continue remembering our health,
even after Heart Month (and New Year's resolutions) are forgotten. February
15, 2004
Weekly Feature (Patricia):
A Winter Vacation in Ottawa
This week Patricia writes on the vacation possibilities
of our country's capital city, Ottawa. January 31,
2004
Weekly Feature (Paul):
As a Student—Should You Ask Questions in Class?
This week Paul writes at length about the important
topic of student questions and encourages you to ask them! January
24, 2004
Weekly Feature (Tazim):
Happy Chinese New Year!
This week Tazim provides some very interesting and
informative links on the Chinese New Year. January 17,
2004
Weekly Feature (Brad):
PALC Top Web Pages of 2003
Do you know what's most popular at our Web site? The
results may interest you and lead you to a page you haven't visited
before! January 11, 2004
Weekly Feature (L):
How to Beat the Post Holiday Blues
L gives some timely advice on beating the results of
our overindulgence in food and overspending the past few weeks! January
4, 2004
Weekly Feature (Pat):
Happy New Year!
Pat has revised and updated Carey's original feature on
New Year's traditions around the world. Includes a quiz to try!
December 28, 2003
Weekly Feature (Louise):
Boxing Day—Day of Giving or Day of Sales?
Louise attempts to discover the origins of this
Canadian holiday tradition. December 24, 2003
Weekly Feature (Trudi):
Lights in Winter Holidays
Trudi traces the connections among the many winter
holidays at this time of year. Includes Kwanzaa, Hanukah, Christmas, Los
Posados and St. Lucia Day. December 12, 2003
Weekly Feature (Cheryl):
Christmas 2003
Cheryl outlines some great places and activities for
families looking for Christmas fun in the Lower Mainland. December 7,
2003
Weekly Feature (Louise):
Subordination
Louise's feature explains this important grammatical
concept. Includes a quiz, so you
can test yourself. November 29, 2003
Weekly Feature (Pat):
The Flu: How to Protect Yourself
Pat's feature contains everything you need to know and
includes links to quizzes to test that knowledge, too! November
22, 2003
Weekly Feature (Paul):
Accommodating Vancouver's Growing Population
Paul brings us a well-researched report on the issues
facing our large (and growing!) metropolitan region. November 15,
2003
Weekly Feature (Helen):
Do the Crime - Do the Time?
Helen provides us with current information on uniquely
Canadian justice. She includes three quizzes to help you check your
knowledge. November 1, 2003
Weekly Feature (Patricia):
Using the Correct Verb
Patricia outlines important information on subject verb
agreements. Includes two quizzes for you to try. October 19,
2003
Weekly Feature (Tazim):
Reading Comprehension Exercises Online
Tazim points us to three useful Web sites with
interactive quizzes for reading comprehension practice. October 5,
2003
Weekly Feature (L):
Computer and Internet Safety
L gives good information about keeping your computer
and your children safe when using the Internet. September 28,
2003
Weekly Feature (Brad):
West Nile Virus: A Real Danger
Brad outlines this new, and serious, virus transmitted by
mosquitoes, which has recently affected his uncle in Alberta. September 21
Weekly Feature (Trudi):
Time Management and Study Skills
Trudi reminds students of the importance of scheduling
time and studying effectively. September 14, 2003
Weekly Feature (Cheryl):
The Hot, Dry Summer of 2003
Cheryl writes on BC's extraordinary summer and how it
has affected her and her family. September 5, 2003
Weekly Feature (L):
Labour Day
L sends greetings from Malaysia along with information
on Labour Day celebrations around the world. August 31,
2003
Weekly Feature (Louise):
Coordination
Louise goes over the important grammatical term,
coordination. Includes a self-marking practice quiz. August 24,
2003
Weekly Feature (Pat):
September 03 Registration and Classes
Pat answers questions many returning students have asked
about September registration. August 17
Weekly Feature (Paul):
The West Edmonton Mall
Paul suggests an interesting and unusual vacation
destination. August 10, 2003
Weekly Feature (Brad):
Editing a 20-Error Paragraph
Brad gives us two versions of a paragraph for editing
practice, one with 20 errors, one corrected. July 20,
2003
Weekly Feature (Patricia):
New Westminster's Queens Park
For a lovely stroll after school, why not try Queens
Park? July 12, 2003
Weekly Feature (Tazim):
2010 Winter Olympic Games in Vancouver!
Tazim brings us information on Vancouver's successful
bid to host the 2010 Olympic games. July 7, 2003
Weekly Feature (L):
A Tale of Two Graduates
L writes a feature article on our two most recent
graduates: George and Tania. Includes photos taken at this year's
recognition day ceremony. June 28, 2003
Weekly Feature (Brad):
Learning at the ALC
Brad writes a short personal essay on the unique nature
of working and learning in an adult learning centre. June 22,
2003
Weekly Feature (Pat):
The World Health Organization (WHO)
Pat explains the historical role of this important
worldwide organization. June 12, 2003
Weekly Feature (L):
How to Survive the Certificate Tests
L outlines everything you need to know in his
five-point guide to writing the tests, including good answering
techniques. June 1, 2003
Weekly Feature (Cheryl):
National Missing Children's Day (May 25)
Cheryl outlines the important services of Child Find BC
and Child Find Canada, organizations dedicated to protecting children.
May 25, 2003
Weekly Feature (Pat):
Career Planning and Post-Secondary Information
Pat gives important information on using the
counselling services available to students at the PALC. May 18,
2003
Weekly Feature (Brad):
Getting Ready for the Certificate Tests
This week, Brad outlines key resources useful to
students preparing for the upcoming certificate tests. May 12
Weekly Feature (Helen):
English as the Global Language
This week, Helen writes about the history of
English and why it has become a global language. May 4,
2003
Weekly Feature (Louise):
Spelling Demons Part 5
This week, Louise continues her series on commonly
misspelled words.
Includes a quiz so you can test yourself. April 26,
2003
Weekly Feature (Cheryl):
Discover Beautiful British Columbia
Cheryl encourages us to vacation in Beautiful
British Columbia. Lots of useful links to travel information. April 18,
2003
Weekly Feature (Tazim):
Writing Topic Sentences
Tazim points out good Web resources on the Topic
Sentence. Includes links to pages here at PALC.net April 13,
2003
Weekly Feature (Brad):
Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS)
Brad outlines what is known (and not known) about
this new disease affecting people worldwide. April 6
Weekly Feature (Carey):
Daylight Saving Time
Carey reminds us to set our clocks next Sunday and
provides useful and interesting facts about Daylight Saving Time. March
30, 2003
Weekly Feature (Cheryl):
Dragon Bones
Cheryl fills us in on an interesting exhibit of
dinosaur bones, eggs, and embryos. March 23,
2003
Weekly Feature (Patricia):
The Olympic Games
This week, Patricia outlines Vancouver's Winter Olympics bid
and gives us relevant links to visit. March 15, 2003
Weekly Feature (Brad):
The Atlas of Canada
This week, Brad introduces us to the many fabulous
online resources about Canada. Includes links to curriculum, quizzes,
common questions and more. March 8, 2003
Weekly Feature (Cheryl):
Stanley Cup Playoff Hockey
This week, Cheryl gives us information and links
to help us follow hockey (and the fortunes of our home team, The Canucks!).
February 23, 2003
Weekly Feature (Pat):
Heart Month
This week, Pat reminds us to take care of
ourselves and our hearts. February 16, 2003
Weekly Feature (Louise):
Spelling Demons Part 4
This week, Louise continues her series on commonly
misspelled words.
Includes a quiz so you can test yourself. February 9,
2003
Weekly Feature (Paul):
On Becoming a Better Listener
This week, Paul discusses how to improve your
listening skills.
February 2, 2003
Weekly Feature (Trudi):
Happy Chinese New Year!
This week, Trudi gives us information on an
important cultural tradition.
January 26, 2003
Weekly Feature (Carey):
The Language of Mathematics
This week, Carey explains to us how the language
of Mathematics is an everyday, useful vocabulary for anyone to possess.
January 19, 2003
Weekly Feature (Trudi):
An Illustrated Approach to Vocabulary
This week, Trudi leads us to a site where a
student can learn new vocabulary through pictures. January 12,
2003
Weekly Feature (Brad):
Effective Educational Web Design (Part
Two: Building in Interactivity the Free and Easy Way)
This week, Brad continues his series on Web Design
to be used in conjunction with Professional Development workshops to be held
on January 31. January 11, 2003
Weekly Feature and Quiz (Trudi):
Is it a Cold or The Flu?
This week, Trudi points out two Web sites to help
you learn the difference. Includes a comprehension quiz. January 6,
2003
Weekly Feature (Brad):
Effective Educational Web Design (Part One: It's Your
Content that Counts)
This week, Brad begins a series of discussions on
Web design to be used in a School District 40 Professional Development Day
workshop. December 31, 2002
Weekly Feature (Patricia):
Marking Your Writing
This week, Patricia explains the "C,F,S,M" marking
system used by the teachers. December 15, 2002
Weekly Feature (Tazim):
Folk and Fairy Tales
This week, Tazim points us to a favourite Web site,
full of stories with important messages for all. December 8,
2002
Weekly Feature (Louise):
Spelling Demons (Part 3)
This week, part three of Louise's feature to help
you conquer commonly misspelled words. Includes a link to a
fill-in-the-blank quiz. November 25, 2002
Weekly Feature (Brad):
How to Answer Questions Well
(2)
This week, Brad continues with more pointers on pleasing your
English teachers with strong and effective answers to questions. November 17,
2002
Weekly Feature (Brad):
How to Answer Questions Well
(1)
This week, Brad gives some pointers on pleasing your
English teachers with strong and effective answers to questions. November 3,
2002
Weekly Feature (Tazim):
The Food Bank
This week, Tazim outlines the goals and objectives of
the Greater Vancouver Food Bank and encourages students to donate generously
this year. October 26, 2002
Weekly Feature:
Naming Decimals
Carey reviews some important decimal rules.
October 20, 2002
Weekly Feature:
Canadian Thanksgiving
Cheryl explains the meaning of this important autumn
day. October 13, 2002
Weekly Feature:
Staying Healthy Part 2
Tazim points out a great resource from the Canadian
Government on nutrition and health. October 6, 2002
Weekly Feature:
Spelling Demons Part 2
Louise continues her series on commonly misspelled
words. Includes excellent memory tips and links to a quiz to test
yourself!
September 29, 2002
Weekly Feature:
Reading and Fishing?
Find out the connection between reading and fishing
in L's feature. Includes links to four online presentations in PowerPoint
(viewable in Internet Explorer 5.0+) and to three former features on
Vocabulary by L.
September 22, 2002
Weekly Feature:
September 11: A Personal View
This week, Brad writes on last year's tragic events
and points out some alternate sources of information on the Web.
September 8, 2002
Weekly Feature:
Effective Reading through SQ3R
This week, Paul outlines a method for more effective
reading just in time for the start of the new school year. September 1,
2002
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