crayon magazine oct-dec 2011
DESCRIPTION
Ghana's highest circulating free childrens MagazineTRANSCRIPT
>> Surprise prizes INSIDE!!! <<
Hello children, 2011 is drawing to a close, which means that Christmas and New Year holiday season will soon be with us. The second issue of Crayon is also the final one for this year. For us at Crayon, we eagerly look forward to more exciting features in subsequent editions for the coming year 2012.
In this issue, we proudly introduce three additional schools in the Crayon family. They are Hope Christian Academy – Gomoa Fetteh, Madonna School – Koforidua, and German Swiss International School – Accra. We are happy to have them on board and we hope that pupils bring us a lot more fantastic stories from their respective schools. The Crayon family warmly welcome our latest additions.
We continue to receive many short stories, jokes, riddles and poems from our ardent readers. However, we want to encourage you to spread the news around to your friends to also write to Crayon. This offers us the opportunity to learn from one another as we read articles from pupils in different schools all over Ghana.
Thank you to all of those who have written to us or sent us articles. We hope that you enjoy reading every page of this edition. Keep sending us more short stories, poetry, riddles, jokes, tongue twisters and recipes for the third issue of Crayon.
Merry Christmas and a very happy New Year to you all. Enjoy
PUBLISHED BYPRINTAID FOUNDATION
PRINTED BY TYPE CO. LTDP.O. BOX KN854, KANESHIE ACCRA
EDITOR Nana Bonsu-Amoako
DESIGN DIRECTORS Mavis Osei-Boakye
Steven Aniagyei
CREATIVE TEAM Victor B. BorluDivine Senyo
Kukua Zophia Palmer
ILLUSTRATIONS Smartline Publishing
EDITORIAL TEAM Elorm Amadotor
Kwabena Owusu-AmoakoBoadi Owusu-Nyamekye
Romeo LarteyDelphina Mansa Kyeremateng
CONTRIBUTIONS/FEATURES FROM THE FOLLOWING SCHOOLS:
Alsyd AcademyNorth Ridge LyceumAlpha Beta SchoolJack and Jill School
German-Swiss International SchoolMadonna School
Hope Christian Academy
DISTRIBUTION Type Company Limited
Crayon Magazine. © 2011 by PrintAid Foundation. All rights reserved. No part of this publication
may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted into any means, electronic,
mechanical, photocopy, recording or otherwise without the prior permission of the publishers except as provided under the Copyright Law.
Except for use in the classroom, no part of this publication can be used for any commercial purpose except with the express permission of the publishers.
PRIVACY NOTICE The views expressed in the Crayon Magazine are those of the authors and not necessarily those of Crayon Magazine, its employees or their families.
Any remaining errors are the authors’ responsibility. While every effort and care has been taken to ensure accuracy of the information contained
in this publication, the publisher cannot accept responsibility for any errors it may contain. The
publisher reserves the right to edit contributions from authors to suit our young audience.
DISCLAIMEREvery attempt has been made to contact
copyright holders. Should your copyright be infringed, do not hesitate to contact us.
ALL CORRESPONDENCE, SUGGESTIONS, SUBMISSION OF ARTICLES CAN BE SENT TO:
[email protected] [email protected]
ORThe Editor
CRAYON MAGAZINEP. O. Box KN854, Kaneshie, AccraTel: 030 223 2252 / 030 225 4011
Fax: 030 225 4578
ISSN: 2026-6154
Mini Stories
Poetry
Short Stories
Jokes and Riddles
Books to watch out for
Our Health With Dr. Isabella Sagoe-Moses
Young Scientist Page
News – Crayon Launching
Activity Page
Feature Story My Journey to The Spelling Bee
Scrambled Words
Photogallery
Cartoons
Culture
Colouring Page
GHANA’S HIGHEST CIRCULATING FREE CHILDREN’S MAGAZINE
Editor’s Corner
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Nana Bonsu-Amoako
>> Submit your story today, you could win a surprise from:
1
On July 1st 2011 the maiden edition of the CRAYON magazine was successfully launched with over 4000 copies printed and distributed free of charge. CRAYON is a product of The Children’s Writing Project - an initiative of PRINTAID FOUNDATION, in partnership with TYPE Company Ltd, as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility programme. The objective of this project is to usher in a new generation of young and creative writers in the country through the accessibility of a dedicated magazine, at the same time spurring them to hone their writing skills during their formative years.
The idea of creating the free and educative Crayon Magazine, solely dedicated to children and by children is a conception of mine, greatly inspired by the Africa Leadership Initiative (A.L.I.), of which I am a proud fellow. I envision that Crayon Magazine will serve as a catalyst that would not only unearth talent but also give primary pupils the space and platform to exhibit and improve such talent. CRAYON Magazine’s main focus is to serve the needs of primary school pupils; however another publication solely for kindergarten and pre-schoolers will soon be introduced.
The content of CRAYON’s maiden edition was mainly contributed by students of Alsyd Academy, North Ridge Lyceum, Jack and Jill School and Alpha Beta. In this second edition we have contributions from The German Swiss International School in Accra,
FROM THE PUBLISHER
Hope Christian Academy (Village of Hope Orphanage) in Central Region, and Madonna School, in Eastern Region. As the writing project expands, more schools are going to be featured, and frequency and circulation will be raised to meet the needs of children especially in the rural and deprived areas of the country. My passion is to see deserving, brilliant but needy children are not denied access to quality education to the highest level, and I promise the institutionalization of a scholarship scheme for the less fortunate children in our society.
Another aim of establishing a publication such as Crayon Magazine is also to fill the vacuum created by the absence of a widely circulated educative publication for children. The Crayon magazine promises to be a great resource in school and at home for parents as well children. For this reason, and being the first of its kind with the highest circulation, Crayon Magazine will be available at no cost and will be freely distributed to our partner schools. We have received many commendations for starting this publication and we look forward to active cooperation from parents, schools, NGOs, and corporate organizations for this project and the Crayon magazine to succeed. We welcome and encourage comments, views and questions that would foster a better and improved magazine for our children in subsequent editions.
Did you know?
…that young children compose before they know much about the conventions of writing and reading or having the skill to control the formation of letters?
…The process of learning to write begins in infancy.
Coby Asmah
2
My Special Friend
I felt so warm and good inside, my heart was aglow. I know God heard my prayers for you, He hears them all, you know. This morning when I awakened and saw the sun above, I softly said “Good morning Lord. Bless everyone I love”. Right away I thought of you, and said a lovely prayer, that He would bless you specially and keep you free from danger. I thought of all the happiness a day could hold in store and wished it all for you, because no one deserves more than you.
By Audrey TettehNorth Ridge Lyceum (5J)
The Boy Who Forgot His Manners
There was a family of three; Mr and Mrs. Boateng and their son. They were a much disciplined family and this affected the up-bringing of their son Kofi. But sadly, when Kofi went to school, he joined a group of bad children.
Though he was a good boy, he started engaging in bad habits. Kofi started breaking school rules, stopped learning and began to disobey his teachers. Due to this, he failed in his final exams and had to repeat his class.
This was an eye-opener for Kofi and it made him realize that being alone is better than being with bad company.
Dear readers, my advice to you is that you should avoid bad company and let your books be your friend.
By: Daryl K.A Dufu North Ridge Lyceum (2J)
A Story About The Good Little Sister
Once there was a man, his wife and three little daughters. Their daughters’ names were Ama, Adwoa and Afua. They lived peacefully and happily on a ranch. One day, Adwoa and Afua were fighting over clothes their mother had bought them. Kind little Afua surrendered her clothes to her big sister and her sister was very happy about it.
Afua was not bothered at all. Instead she danced happily to her room. Before bedtime, little Afua prayed to God concerning the clothes and she fell asleep. The next morning, Afua found out that her mother had bought her some new clothes which were much more beautiful than the ones she fought over with her sister as a result
for her kindness.
This story tells us to be kind and one day someone will reward us.
By Yvonne North Ridge Lyceum (3J)
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My mother Who sat and watched my infant headWhen sleeping on my cradle bedAnd tears of sweet affection shed?My Mother
When pain and sickness made me cry Who gazed upon my heavy eyeAnd wept for fear that I should die? My mother
Who taught my infant lips to pray And love God’s Holy book and day And walk in wisdoms’ pleasant way?My mother
Isha DodooJACK AND JILL (Editor’s Note: Originally by Ann Taylor)
Fruits, fruits, fruitsI am of two typesI am dry and also fleshyDry indehiscent and dry dehiscent.I am also drupe fleshy and berry fleshyI am full of good nutrients
Emerald Ampofo
North Ridge Lyceum
Flowers, flowers, flowersFlowers are beautifulThey are used for decoration medicine and foodThey smell goodFlowers, flowers, flowersI love flowers
Yvonne Tetteh
North Ridge Lyceum (3J)
From above an angel flewTo set her journey and to guide a little girl and her familyAround and around she flewHeaven’s great desire, to guide a lonely family on a long journeyThey were lonely and sleepy at last,They arrived at home
By: Angelica-Ann Dickson
North Ridge Lyceum (3J)
Poetry
>> This poem wins a prize from:
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Kids use your mindDon’t fall behindLet’s take it one step at a timeDon’t break the rulesLet’s stay in schoolSo that you canHave a brighter future
Knowledge is power and keyUse it to build a brighter futureAnd make a better worldDon’t give in to negativityAnd stay drug-freeKids use your mindDon’t fall behindYou are the future leaders
I saw a dancing ratGoing tip tap tap tapI thought the rat was talentedBut it was notThis was because the rat I sawWas not a real rat.It was a baby in a rat suit.
Daphne PaintsilNorth Ridge Lyceum (3J)
Poverty and RichesHear the cries of the poorAlways they beg for moneySome even beg for money on the roadsWhy don’t they workNo one knows why they don’t workHear the laughter of the richThey are always happy with moneyThey work so they get enough money Some envy the poorNo one knows why they envy the poor.
Jame Awuh Prah
Jack And Jill (6B)
By Victoria Efua OlowoyoHope Christian Academy (6B)
I have five sensesI can see with my eyesI can hear with my earsI can touch with my skinI can taste with my tongueI can smell with my noseThey make me whole
Emerald AmpofoNorth Ridge Lyceum (5J)
The power of a smileThe power of gun can killAnd the power of a fire can burnAnd the power of wind can chillAnd the power of anger can rageInside until it tears you apartBut the power of a smile can heal a frozen heart
Jessica Opoku MensahNorth Ridge Lyceum (5J) 5
Once upon a time, there was a lovely Princess named Bella. She was lonely and sad. Her little poodle had died and she cried the whole day. One day when she was on her balcony, a handsome prince on his brown horse appeared in her garden of roses. She fell in love just at that moment. The prince got off his horse, bent down and said,”Princess Bella will you be my bride?” The princess replied, “we only just met so let us wait for a while”. The princess then asked him for his name and he replied. “My name is Prince Derrick”.
The Prince left and returned after a year. When he saw Princess Bella, he asked her again, “Will you be my bride?”. “Of course, but tell me all your secret”, the princess replied. The prince then told her his secret. “I am not a prince. I am a pauper and my name is Jermaine Compass”. The princess was furious and kicked him out of her castle. After that she became Queen without marriage but she still had love. And Jermaine married an ugly goblin.
Not So Happy Ever After
There lived a young boy named Gladstone Adjaho. He was born in the year 1999 at Kpoeta in the Volta Region. He lived with his Mom and Dad. Three years after the birth of this young boy he lost his Dad who was called Mr. Samuel Adjaho. His life was full of pain, suffering and sorrow. This young boy was very good in reading and writing in his own language but he had no one to support him to develop this talent.
In the year 2005, this young boy was going round begging people to help his mom and himself. He struggled to get much money by begging people on the street in order to go to school but he did not have enough money.
In the year 2007, this boy had access to an orphanage home in the Central Region called Village of Hope. He then started schooling and learnt how to speak the English language. He continued to read and write and had people who helped him publish everything. Currently, when you go to the Village of Hope and ask of the young boy who loves to read and write and wants to become a journalist, everyone points to the young boy called Gladstone Adjaho.
Finally, this young boy would like to advice all students that, they should take their education seriously because it is the main key to success. He would also like to give a moral lesson which says,
“Determination is always the best.”
THE LIFE AND STORY OF A YOUNG BOY
Gladstone AdjahoHope Christian Academy
Anonymous
>> This writer wins a surprise reward from:
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Money is an essential ingredient of life without which many things, including the propagation of the gospel cannot be achieved. No wonder that the Holy Bible posits that money is a potent answer to all things (Eccl.10:19).
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Databank Ark Fund is a long term mutual fund which seeks to achieve capital growth and income by integrating social, ethical and environmental considerations in the investment process.
As Noah’s ark was a safe haven for his family and all who believed God, so is the ArkFund a safe haven for your financial investments.
With a well diversified portfolio of shares and interest-bearing instruments, you minimize the risk associated with financial investments
INVEST in the Databank ArkFund and grow your wealth the socially responsible way.
Disclaimer. “Past performance of ARKfund is not a guarantee of the future performance”
7
Keep it upDuring a recent password audit
it was found out that a landlady was using the following passwords Mikey,
Minnie, Pluto, Huey, Louie, Dew, Donald, and Goofy. When we asked her why such
a long password, she replied that the password had to be eight characters long.
By Emmanuel RuttmanNorth Ridge Lyceum (5J)
The Password
Efua did very well in her exams and her teacher told her to keep it up.Efua’s mummy asked, “Efua, why are
you holding your report up in the air?”Efua replied, “My teacher asked
me to keep it up!”
By: Daniel AriamaAlpha Beta (JHS 1B)
A visitor went to the Zoo and noticed that one of the attendants was crying quietly in a corner.The visitor asked another attendant why his
colleague was crying.The following conversation ensued between them:
Visitor: Why is he crying?Second attendant: He is crying because
one of the elephants is dead.Visitor: He must have been very fond of that elephant.
Second attendant: No, he is not crying because he was fond of the elephant, but because he is
supposed to dig the elephant’s grave.
By: Daniel AriamaAlpha Beta (JHS 1B)
Elephant JokeJokes
of the Day
What happens when a cat eats a lemon?It becomes a sour puss!
Why do elephants never forget?Because nobody ever tells them anything!
What day do fish hate? Fry-day.
What do you call a bear with no ears? B!
Where do cows go on Saturday nights? To the MOOO-vies!
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What goes up and never comes down?
I am something with two eyes but I only cry with one eye.
Four doors with five windows.
My father builds a house with many doors, if you open one you will open till the end?
I have a mat which, when laid, cannot be folded again?
Two people walking in the rain, the rain beats one but not the other?
I am something, people don’t like me but when I am buzzing they will be clapping for me?
How should we call a nurse who sells fish?
At night they came without being fetched by day they are lost without being stolen? What is it?
Ans. Age
Ans. Milk Tin
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Ans. Fingers
Ans. Onion
Ans. Road
Ans. Pregnant woman
Ans. Mosquito
Ans. Selfishness
Ans. Stars
The more you have it the less you see it? What is it?
What do you break without touching?
When you stand, I sleep, but when you sleep, I stand. I am a part of your body. What am I?
I am a nine letter word, children like my first five letters, but hate my last four letters, what am I?
I am something in your body; I am of the same size as your palm when folded. What am I?
In a bus, there were 50 people travelling from Accra to Kumasi. There was no single person in the bus. So who were in the bus?
Which mouse has no blood and teeth?
Ans. Darkness
Ans. The law
Ans. Feet
Ans. Sugar-cane
Ans. Heart
Ans. Couples
Ans. Computer mouse
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The HERO Mariama, have you seen my trainers? I left them here in the corridors to dry after washing, Abu asked his sister.
Oh yes, I have already put them in your trunk.
Abu and Mariama were the only offspring of their parents, Mariama being the younger child by almost ten years. The two were very fond of each other. Mariama admired her brother because he was a college student who excelled academically and in extra curricula activities: He was the champion at long distance running for his college Abu was fascinated by Mariama to no end, especially when his friends came round to the house and they began speaking in big English’, which she rarely understood.
Abu was packing things into his metal trunk for his impending journey to Damba, in the Northern part of the country to teach. He was very excited; at last he would be travelling outside Kumasi, the Garden City’, and be amongst his own people.
Books to watch out for...
For the rest of this story and more, grab a copy from Silverbird Lifestyle Store.
10
Whether they drive cars or ride motorbikes, most people who live or work in Dzorwulu have seen
Dokono the Donkey.
Almost everyone who walked or rode a bicycle had seen the donkey and his owner, Atta. Atta was a short, round man with a round head and face. He smiled all the time and was very happy with his lot. Dokono belonged to Atta. He didn’t know if he had a mummy, daddy or any donkey brothers and sisters. Atta did not have any family and so they kept each other company.
1. KRUJA-KRUJA
Kruja-kruja… Kru jang-jang...! Kruja-kruja... Kru jang-jang...! Kru Ashetu… Kru jang-jang…! Kru Meimuna… Kru jang-jang…!Kru Yakubu… Kru jang-jang ...!
We are moving on… Kru jang-jang…!
Keep going round… Kru jang-jang…!
Till full cycle… Kru jang-jang…!
We are heading home… Kru jang-jang…!
Shall we arrive?
For the rest of these stories and more, grab a copy from Silverbird Lifestyle Store.
11
Your Health Questions Answered
by Dr Isabella Sagoe-Moses (Child Health Co-ordinator, Reproductive & Child Health Department – Ghana Health Service)
ANAEMIA IN CHILDREN
What are the causes?Q
A
Anaemia is caused by many factors. In Ghana, the common ones include: A diet that lacks the essential nutrients
for producing blood Malaria Worms Infections like Diarrhoea and Pneumonia (when they occur often in an individual)
a. Is it more common in a particular blood type/group or geographical region? – People who are born with sickle cell disease (E.g. SS or SC) usually have lower blood level than others and this may be normal for them. They also tend to have anaemia more often. Anaemia can be found in all regions of Ghana.
AAnaemia is a “shortfall” of blood in the body. It is called “low blood” or “thin blood” by different people.
Anaemia is very common in Ghana, especially among women and children.
8 out of every 10 children below the age of 5 years have anaemia
4 out of every 10 school children have anaemia
What is ANAEMIA?
Q
If a child has Anaemia: The child does not grow and develop
well mentally and physically He/she is not able to pay attention in
class and may not do well at school as other children
They may not reach their maximum potential academically
The child always feels tired and weak and is not able to play as actively as other children
If the underlying cause is not treated, anaemia persists over a long period with serious consequences.
a. Is it hereditary? – In most cases it is not hereditary. In conditions such as sickle cell disease anaemia may hereditary.
b. Is it curable? – Yes, the common causes of anaemia are curable.
c. Is it infectious? - No
A
What are the effects of Anaemia in children?
Q
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How can you know if a child has Anaemia?
How can you prevent Anaemia in Children?
Q
Q
AThese are the signs and symptoms:
General weakness and tiredness Dizziness Paleness in the palms and soles of the feet Shortness of breath – getting easily tired Feeling sleepy most of the time Fainting in severe cases Persistent headaches
New born babies should be fed breast milk only for the first 6 months of life
From the age of 6 months it is important to feed children nutritious foods while continuing to breastfeed till children are 2 years old
Giving children adequate amounts of foods that provide the essential nutrients for producing blood -body-
building foods such as meat, fish, milk, eggs and other animal products; protective foods such as Fruits (orange, pawpaw, pineapple etc) and Vegetables and pulses (nkontomire, aleefu, borkorbokor, carrots, tomatoes, cabbage, beans, agushie, neeri etc.)
Preventing Malaria by sleeping under insecticide treated nets every night.
Not walking barefoot (some worms enter the body by piercing through the skin of the feet)
Hygiene and sanitation
Wash hands at critical times before preparing food, before eating or feeding a child, after visiting the toilet, etc.
Wash fresh fruits and vegetables properly before eating. Keep food and water covered in clean containers.
Contact your health professional as soon as you see any of these signs in your child. The child will be examined and some laboratory tests done to check if the child really has anaemia. Tests will also be done to determine the cause.
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The essence of water can never be underestimated - the substance H2O, is defined as a clear, thin, liquid, lacking taste and smell, and essential for life. It is a medium in which all other nutrients are found. Three simple molecules, two hydrogen and one oxygen, bind together to form each molecule of water, the most abundant and important substance on earth and in the human body.
It may seem strange when feeling your firm muscles that water occupies 60% of your living cells. Did you know that water comprises 90% of a baby’s body and 60 - 65% of an adult’s? According to research, our muscles are composed of 90% water, our liver is 69% water, and even our bones are 22% water. Clearly, this abundance is associated with water being the most important nutrient.
Water acts as a universal solvent in which electrolytes (salts, acids, and bases) ionize, and in which chemical reactions can occur. Gases and wastes also dissolve in water making it an efficient transport medium.
Since water is essential for all life, and drinking is important to health, drinking good water is still the best way to obtain our fluid requirements. The average human requirement is about three quarts of water per day. Although water has no specific time to be consumed, did you know that it is believed that it is best consumed at regular
intervals during the day? - one or two glasses upon awakening and an hour
before each meal.
It is believed water should not be drunk with or just after meals, as it can dilute digestive juices and reduce food digestion as well as nutrient
assimilation. Some people even like to drink a glass or two in the evening to
help flush out their systems overnight, even though this may result in getting
up in the middle of the night to urinate, it is a good cleansing
system. However, drinking water (about 8 - 10 glasses
recommended per day) is very important in our daily diet. Enough drinking avoids problems such as constipation and dry
skin. So, let’s drink to good health then, shall we? Cheers!
Dr. Shhaluu Ganglani
Kids Concept
AQUA!
14
Long ago, there lived a man called Mr. Vilawoe. He was a very rich man but had only one son. He named his son Lamese. They lived in a village called Biarabiara. When Lamese was growing as a child, he realized that apart from his father’s house, the rest of the community was dirty.
Lamese was an all-round brilliant boy. He had been receiving awards through primary to secondary school. Lamese’s farther loved him and was very proud of him.
When he completed secondary school, one of his worries was his dirty community. This was because his friends teased him with it.
One day, he realized that he didn’t like beans and that when he ate he would throw up for three days before he would get well again. He set off and went to a faraway village to arrange for a Healer to come and see him.
When all was set, Lamese felt ill. He was vomiting unceasingly. His father rushed him to the hospital but he was not responding to treatment.
When the Healer arrived in the community, he announced that a very brilliant boy was going to die first, followed by the rest of the people of the community, unless a man of God intervened. He described the condition of the first boy and Mr Vilawoe sent for his boy in hospital to be brought immediately. The Healer ordered that the child be kept at the outskirts of the village. Meanwhile, all the rubbish in and around the village should be heaped 300m away from the village. Within three days, the whole village became as clean as a new palace.
Lamese was healed. The Healer asked the whole village to come together and he warned them that they faced a more dangerous situation if they kept their environment dirty.
Later Lamese revealed that his father chose wealth first but he chooses health first.
A clean environment should be our first.
The question is do we need Healers today before we clean our environment?
By Priscilla AbbeyquayeHope Christian Academy (5A)
I CHOOSE HEALTH
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After several months of intense preparation, the maiden edition of CRAYON, the much anticipated children’s magazine, was released on 1st July, 2011. The first edition of this quarterly children’s magazine, includes short stories, recipes, poems, imaginative games, health tips, brainteasers, and puzzles that are designed to encourage kids’ creativity. The aim of this magazine is to spark creative thinking in children by giving them inspiration to read as well as ideas to help them write pieces of their own.
The content of the maiden edition was mainly contributed by pupils from Alsyd Academy, North Ridge Lyceum, Jack and Jill School, Morning Glory Montessori and Alpha Beta.
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Naturally, the magazine was launched in each of these schools and the pupils of these schools were the first to receive copies of CRAYON. Children who sent outstanding entries were rewarded with prizes. Every child was excited to get a copy.
PrintAid Foundation congratulates all contributors for becoming part of the children’s writing project. We are grateful for all the contributions that were sent and we encourage you to keep writing and sending us your submissions for future editions.
To the staff and management of our partner schools, we would like to express our immense appreciation especially for your time spent editing and sorting out the stories as well as for all the various ways you supported us in making the maiden edition a success.
By: Delphina Mansa Kyeremateng, Ashesi University
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A C M O P U E L T B
B P N A C O R N U I
C E P E A R B F R W
M A U L Q A Z M N A
O C M U E N Z Q I T
P H P O X G R A P E
I M K B K E T K A R
C O I M M O G N A M
U B N T O H Y Q C E
S K K Q P I X U L L
C T T V X E N B N O
B L M M Y S T M M N
Y M L T Z M B T T B
Activity
APPLE PEACH
PEAR GRAPE
ORANGE WATERMELON
CORN TURNIP
MANGO PUMPKIN
CREAM TRUFFLESNana Abaa Biney AidooNorth Ridge Lyceum (4J)
A = 2
B = 4
C = 6
D = 8
E = 10
F = 12
G = 14
H = 16
I = 18
J = 20
K = 22
L = 24
M = 26
N = 28
O = 30
P = 32
Q = 34
R = 36
S = 38
T = 40
U = 42
V = 44
W = 46
X = 48
Y = 50
Z = 52
QUESTIONS1. 24, 30, 44, 10
2. 30, 28, 10
3. 2, 28, 30, 40, 16, 10 36
4. 16, 30, 28, 30, 42, 36
5. 50, 30, 42, 36
6. 32, 2, 36, 10, 28, 40, 38
7. 22, 28, 30, 46, 24, 10, 8, 14, 10
8. 18, 38
9. 32, 36, 18, 6, 10, 24, 10, 38, 38
ANSWERS1. LOVE
2. ONE
3. ANOTHER
4. HONOUR
5. YOUR
6. PARENTS
7. KNOWLEDGE
8. IS
9. PRICELESS
By Nigel GotaNorth Ridge Lyceum (5s)
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One afternoon, after lessons were over, four pupils along with I were summoned
to the office of the Headmistress of our school. She spoke to us about something concerning the opportunity to improve upon our vocabulary and our use of the English Language. I later found out that she was talking about the school’s enrolment and our participation in the Spelling Bee Competition. When I consulted my parents about it, they encouraged me to participate in it. That is how the great, life transforming experience started.
The school’s administration handpicked five of us because of the time the school registered for the Bee. We worked hard in order to excel in the competition and our efforts were not in vain. Out of the four spellers the school presented at the regional completion, three of us qualified for the National competition in Accra. One speller from Madonna made the school proud by making it to the top three at the National bee. Although, unfortunately, I was not that speller I gained so much from my first participation in The Spelling Bee.
In the school’s second year of participating in The Spelling Bee, it was much more patronised by students of the school. We had to go through class bees to select the top five to represent the class at the school’s inaugural spelling bee competition. I participated in the school bee knowing the benefits I could derive from the competition. I would say that it was due to my experience and hard work that I came out as the winner of the school’s spelling bee. Since this time around, I knew what to expect, my preparation was very rigorous. Some of the resources I used were the Spell it resource, prefixes and suffixes resource and the Merriam-Webster Dictionary® which became my companion. I looked for websites with words of all kinds and used flashcards. I made sure that I was well prepared for the Regional Bee.
The day of the Regional Bee arrived and to tell you the truth, I was nervous when I saw the number of contestants about to participate in the competition but I knew deep down inside that I was well prepared and that God would crown my efforts with success. I sailed through to the National Finals of The Spelling Bee by nailing words
like soccer; my favourite game and hemisphere which generally means one half of the earth. I was very excited but I knew that the race was not yet finished and the battle was not yet won. So, I did not rest on my oars with this feat but it rather challenged me to do more than I was already doing. As a representative of the Eastern Region at the National Finals some of my prize packages were products from sponsors, educational materials and a one week camping at the Achimota Girls’ Guide Camp. As I prepared myself for the camping, I also prepared myself for the main reason why we went for the camp which was to spell.
The long awaited day finally came when all 92 spellers were expected to converge at the Achimota Girls’ Guide Camp where we would stay for a week. As we had fun, I did not forget that the best speller would come from us so I made friends with others and studied with them as well.
I had the opportunity of going to the U.S. Embassy where I met the Chief Political Officer at the U.S. Embassy, Miss Vernelle Trim who shared her experiences with us since she had participated in the Spelling Bee when she was a child like us.
By: Darryl Thompson J.H.S. 1 (Madonna School, Koforidua)
News20
We also went to the Factory of Indomie Instant Noodles, Plan Ghana and the Rufus Green Parks where we had lots of fun playing games like soccer, scrabble, volleyball and others.
The awaited day finally came where the press, family and friends of spellers and other invited guests were to converge at the Hall of Physicians and Surgeons where the 2011 Spelling Bee Champion was to be crowned. There was nervousness and tension written on the face of each speller including me. I quite remember that in the morning I was so tensed that I could not finish my breakfast, which is unusual for me. The competition began and already some spellers were falling out.
which means an artistic material that is held to be of low quality. Fortunately for me, this was settled and I was given another word to spell which I got right. I spelled words like anchovy, suffocate, luculent and andante which took me to the top 5. It was a dream come true considering the fact that I was eliminated in the initial stages of the last competition.
In one round, all of us, the five contestants had our words wrong so we had another chance to spell. That was when the word’ bouffant’, a French word which means puffed out or voluminous hit me in the face. I heard ‘the bell of doom’ (as I used to call that bell) which meant that I was out. Although I cried, I consoled myself with the fact that I was one of my class champions, the school champion, a regional champion and one of the top five spellers. After the Bee we had a party where a cake was cut. We had our prizes at the party which included products from Indomie, Type Company Limited, Muscatella, DSTV and a certificate of participation. It was indeed a great experience I would never forget.
I would like to encourage children between the ages of 8 to 14 that they should patronise the Spelling Bee Competition for it is a very educative and life changing competition to help young children improve on their vocabulary, the use of the English Language, their self confidence and other life skills. They would derive so many life-long benefits.
Darryl Thompson
I take this opportunity to thank the people who have helped me come this far. I would like to thank the almighty God for his mercies and guidance. I also want to thank my family, both nuclear and extended especially my mother, dad and sister for the help and encouragement they rendered to me. I would also like to thank the administration, staff and students of Madonna School for all their support especially the noble Headmistress, Rev. Sister Lilia S.Sp.S. Not forgetting the organizers and sponsors of the Spelling Bee who organized such an educative programme. Anybody who has helped me come this far in any small way, I say thank you and God bless you.
There was a controversy concerning the word I spelt during the first round. I was expected to spell the word ‘quiche’, a French word which is a savoury pie, but the pronouncer who was Efo Kodjo Mawugbe now of blessed memory, pronounced the word ‘kitsch’, a German word
I would say that it was due to my experience and hard work that I came out as the winner of the school’s spelling bee.
>> This story wins a prize from:
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8
ATE PUC
TREERAIRGFOR
ERIC OEORCK
RDBEA FINKE
NAACSPEU
CALERNDO
ASG ROKEOC
These photographs show close-up views
of everyday items we see at home.Unscramble the
letters to identify each picture.
GOT A CLUE?
RYIGFN NPA
1
3
2
6
4
7
5
22
Frozen Fruits TreatsPREPARATION TIME:
15MIN
READY IN:1hr 15min
INGREDIENTS10 ounces Packaged frozen
Strawberries, thawed1 large Can crushed pineapple
5 Bananas (cut in cubes)12 ounces Frozen orange juice-
concentrate1 1/2 cups Water
DIRECTIONSMix ingredients together.
Freeze in small paper cups.When ready serve partially defrosted.
Children love this nutritious treat!
AMOUNT PER SERVING: Calories: 350, Total Fat: 0.5g,
Cholesterol: 0mg
From: Healthy Meals and More
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Alpha Beta, German Swiss Int., Jack & Jill and Hope Christian Academy
AT
Alpha Beta Graduation 2011
Alpha Beta Graduation 2011
GSIS: Year bookGSIS: Year book
Alpha Beta International DayAlpha Beta International Day
Alpha Beta International DayAlpha Beta International Day
Alpha Beta International Day
Alpha Beta Graduation 2011Jack and Jill School Crayon Award Winners
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Alpha Beta Graduation 2011
GSIS: Year book
GSIS: Year book
GSIS: Year book
GSIS: Year book
Hope Christian Academy
Alpha Beta International Day
Alpha Beta International DayAlpha Beta International Day
Alpha Beta Graduation 2011Jack and Jill School Crayon Award Winners
Alpha Beta Graduation 2011
25
Once upon a time in a little town, lived a man
who weaved baskets. He loved to sing while
weaving his baskets and people always came
to listen to his beautiful songs. He was always happy
during the day and sad during the night because he
hated darkness. When night fell, he would sadly take
his baskets indoors, sit on his bed and look out at the
sky through his window in silence.
One day, when the night was covering the earth with
darkness, the man climbed the highest mountain and
shouted “Night, Night, Stop!” And so Night stopped,
and asked him in a soft voice, “Yes, how may I help
you?” Night asked. The man replied, “Night, where do
you take the light to?
Night replied, “it is behind me.” The man said, Night
please do not cover the world with darkness, I hate
darkness.” Night replied sadly, “Sorry I can’t do
anything about it,” and continued covering the world
with darkness.
The next day, the man thought of nothing except the
conversation he had had with night.
Two days later, the man went to the same mountain,
but this time to the very top. When night came, he
punched the sky to make night stop, but he only
made a hole and light shone from the hole. He was
surprised, but he was happy, so he continued making
holes across the sky. Finally, he created one last hole
that had the shape of ten oranges. Light shone all over
the sky and today people stay awake to see the holes
made by the basket weaver.
To this day, people stay awake to look at the moon and
the stars.
By: Victoria Efua Olowoyo
Hope Christian Academy (6B)
Once upon a time, in a place far, far away, lived a very happy and peaceful family. The family was rich and they lived
in a grand mansion. Soon, they had a pretty little girl. They named her Alexandra. She grew up to be a very kind-hearted girl. Alexandra also loved to help people.
One day she was walking around the city when she passed by an old woman carrying a very heavy load. She offered a helping hand and carried the old woman’s load to her hut a few miles away. The old woman thanked her for what she had done and offered to give her something in return. But Alexandra did not collect gifts for favours so she refused. The old woman, being wise, insisted on giving her a gift. Alexandra finally accepted the gift. It was a little purse which would grant her every wish.
When she got home, her parents asked her where she had been. She then showed them the purse and told them everything that had happened. Alexandra started making wishes. She wished for diamonds and she liked them very much.
One day, it was announced that a prince had arrived in the town and he wanted a bride. Alexandra was 31 years old at the time so she was suitable. When she heard it, she put on the diamonds she had wished for; diamond dress, diamond shoe and other jewellery made of diamonds. When the prince reached the mansion, he fell in love with Alexandra at once. They got married and lived happily ever after.
By Merryada Puplampu
North Ridge Lyceum (3J)
THE MAN WHO HATED NIGHT
>> This writer wins a surprise reward from:26
The Adinkra symbols are believed to have originated from Gyaman, a former Kingdom in today’s Cote D’Ivoire. The symbols express various themes that relate to the history, beliefs and philosophy of the Asante. Each symbol has a proverbial meaning which plays an
important role in the Asante culture. The use of proverbs is considered as a mark of wisdom.
In this issue, we present some more of the Adinkra symbols and their meanings;
DUAFE“Wooden comb”Symbol of beauty and cleanliness; symbols of desirable feminine qualitiesThe meaning implies feminine virtue, everlasting love and care.
MATE MASIE“What I hear, I keep”Symbol of wisdom, knowledge and prudence.Understanding means wisdom and knowledge. Deep wisdom comes out of listening and keeping what is heard.
SANKOFA“Return and get it”Symbol of Wisdom, and the importance of learning from the past You can always correct your mistakes. It’s better late than never.You can use past experiences to build the future.
WO NSA DA MU A“If your hands are in the dish”Symbol of participatory government, democracy and pluralism.
ADINKRAHENE“Chief of the Adinkra symbols”Symbol of greatness, royalty and leadershipThis symbol plays an inspiring role in the designing of other Adinkra symbols.
AYA“Fern”Symbol of endurance and resourcefulnessThe fern is a resilient plant that can grow in difficult places. “An individual who wears this symbol suggests that he has endured many adversities and outlasted much difficulty.”
DENKYEM“Crocodile”Symbol of adaptability and prudenceThe crocodile lives in the water, yet breathes the air, demonstrating an ability to adapt to circumstances.
DWENNIMMEN“Ram’s horns”Symbol of humility together with strengthThe ram will fight fiercely against an adversary, but it also submits humbly to slaughter, emphasizing that even the strong need to be humble.
27
and the STICKY GU...Continued from previous issue
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Once upon a time there was a boy named John. John was a very nice boy. He was kind to everyone around him even though they were mean to him.
The problem with John was that he was not good in any sport but he was a very intelligent student. He was always sad when other people talked about how good they were in the sports they took part in so he decided to try his luck in the school soccer team.
John’s best friend Kevin was very good in sports. He always said to John, “Two tries won’t hurt you.” When John decided to join the soccer team, the coach said to him, “Are you not the boy who is lousy in sports?” John was silent.
One day during training, John kicked the ball aiming for the net. Instead, the ball passed over the net. Everyone made fun of him except for his best friend Kevin. John turned red with rage. He decided to try to kick the ball again. This time around, the ball went into the net, almost carrying the goalkeeper along with it. Everyone around who saw what John did was amazed at how he could kick the ball so well. Some of the players said to the coach, “Coach, can we have John on our team? We need to win the cup next season.”
From that day on, John became a member of the school soccer team. When anyone felt sad because they couldn’t take part in any sport, John told them, “Winners never quit”
Denzel SegbefiaNorth Ridge Lyceum (5J)
STICKY GUM
To be continued in the next issue... 29
My quest to research into the meanings of Akan cloth names has revealed that one safe
way of communication is using our discretion to choose words wisely. In the previous
issue, we learnt that Akan tradition does not only appreciate wax prints for their
colourful and distinctive designs, but communicate through the names given to them. A rival
in a polygamous home for instance can buy a cloth with the name; “me ho yε fε sene me kora”
meaning “I am more beautiful than my rival”. A cloth name like “sesa wo suban” – “change your
attitude” – sets out to give a moral instruction without offending anyone.
In this issue, I would like to discuss the meanings of the following cloths:
• “Ahwenepankasa”–Durablebeadsdonotrattle
•“Owuatwerebaakomforo”–Deathisaninevitableendforall
•“Sikawↄntaban”–Moneyhaswings(literaltranslation)
The first of the three cloth names above that I would like to discuss is “Ahwene pa
nkasa” – durable beads do not rattle. The secondary meaning of this cloth is only
empty barrels make the most noise. Young and boastful people can learn a moral
lesson from this name; never to be boastful or blow their own trumpet but rather
be humble in their speech and attitudes.
“Owu atwere כbaako mforo” reminds us of the transient nature of life. It is
inevitable that everybody will die. If you are reminded of death’s inevitability,
you will sit up and behave, knowing very well that you will surely die and leave
this world one day.
A cloth name like “sika wↄ ntaban” – money has wings – seeks to advise people
about mismanagement and extravagant lifestyles. Money can fly like a bird if you
mismanage it. The designs in the cloth are birds with opened wings. This design
coupled with the name advises people especially beginners not to be spendthrifts but
to manage their resources well, especially in these difficult times.
The cloth names discussed above gives clear indications that they can be used as silent
rhetoric and also serve as traditional modes of conveying messages in our society.
Researched and compiled by:
Lois Koranteng
Class 6 Syd, Alsyd Academy“Ahwene pa nkasa
”
“Sika wↄ ntaban”
“O
wu
atw
ere”
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Colouring Page
Can you Spot Ten differences?
Time to have dinner Time to brush my teeth
“Sika wↄ ntaban”
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Once upon a time there lived a girl called Hanni. She had two sisters and lived with her parents. Hanni was a very lazy girl. She never did anything at home and she was always dirty.
One sunny Saturday morning, Hanni’s sister, Vina, called their mother and told her Hanni had not showered, not done her laundry nor brushed her teeth. As Vina spoke, Hanni overheard her. When Vina came out of the room, Hanni was wearing a nicely ironed pink dress, her hair nicely made into a ponytail. She was wearing her clean flat slippers and she smelled good.
Suddenly, Vina went upstairs to look for Karen and tell her what she saw. She found Karen sitting on her bed studying. She then went over and said to her,”Hanni of all people did her laundry, showered and brushed her teeth before 8:00AM.” Karen told her to mind her own business.
Vina went downstairs and saw Hanni picking up a basket with some money and a bag in her other hand. Vina asked her where she was going and she replied that she was going to the market to get some food stuff. Vina then wished her a safe journey.
Hanni returned home only to hear that Vina had been knocked down by a car on her way to see a witch doctor. A funeral service was held for her after a week.
After a year had passed, Vina’s family celebrated the first anniversary of her tragic death. Hanni remembered all the bad things her sister had done to her and wished her sister would have lived long enough to repent from her bad ways.
We should not be jealous of others, like Vina was of her sister, but instead we should be supportive and protective like Karen was.
Owusuwah Hemeng Ntiamoah North Ridge Lyceum (5J)
Tell: 0240 954262
Hello children,
We would like you to write a short story on any interesting topic and send it to Crayon today. You can give your short story to your class teacher, school administrator or send it through
email: [email protected]
The best story winsa prize from Indomie.32
Tell: 0240 954262
