Show and Talk Activity in HIPMaX: A Practical Implementation at SK Gual To'Deh

ENGLISH CORNER - The Show and Talk activity, as introduced in the Highly Immersive Programme HIPMaX Toolkit developed by ELTC, is designed to foster confidence, fluency, and creativity in English among primary school pupils. At SK Gual To'Deh, a school located near the Thai border in Kelantan, this activity has been effectively adapted to suit pupils’ cultural background and English proficiency levels.

In this implementation, pupils engaged in the activity by bringing pictures, toys, or models of animals, and talked about them in simple English. This task encouraged them to speak naturally and confidently about a topic they are familiar with — animals. See the video here.

Objectives of the Show and Talk Activity

Based on the HIPMaX guide, the primary objectives of Show and Talk are as follows:

1. To develop pupils' confidence in using English orally in a supportive, non-threatening environment.

2. To improve pupils’ fluency and accuracy by encouraging spontaneous speech using familiar topics and vocabulary.

3. To stimulate critical and creative thinking, especially when answering teacher’s prompts like:

   • “Why do you like this animal?”

   • “What does it eat?”

   • “Where can it be found?”

4. To strengthen interpersonal communication through peer sharing and active listening during presentations.

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Implementation at SK Gual To'Deh

Considering the location and socio-linguistic context of SK Gual To'Deh, where many pupils speak Malay, Thai, or Kelantanese dialects as their first language, the Show and Talk activity was tailored to accommodate their language readiness:

• Pupils were placed in small groups (5–8 students per group) to build comfort.

• Bilingual scaffolding was used at the beginning (e.g., teacher modeled in BM + English) before moving into full English use.

• Teachers introduced animal-related vocabulary in earlier lessons to build their background knowledge and reduce language anxiety.

• Pupils were given visual aids, such as animal flashcards, drawings, or even plush toys, to support their talk.

Theme: Animals

Each pupil presents their chosen animal and then discusses the following questions with their group:

1. Can you describe your animal in detail (appearance, size, colour)?
   Example: “My animal is a large mammal. It has thick grey skin, big ears, and a long trunk.”

2. Where is this animal usually found? Is it native to Malaysia or other countries?
   Example: “This animal is usually found in the rainforest in Southeast Asia. It is native to Malaysia.”

3. What is its diet? Is it a carnivore, herbivore, or omnivore?
   Example: “It is a herbivore. It eats grass, leaves, and fruits.”

4. How does this animal behave in the wild or in captivity?
   Example: “In the wild, it travels in herds and protects its young. In captivity, it is usually calm and friendly.”

5. Why did you choose this animal to talk about?
   Example: “I chose this animal because I think it’s unique and intelligent. I’ve always wanted to see one up close.”

6. What makes your animal special or interesting?
   Example: “It can remember people and places, which shows it has a good memory.”

7. What threats does this animal face in the wild (e.g., hunting, pollution)?
   Example: “This animal is endangered because of illegal poaching and deforestation.”

8. Do you think this animal should be kept in a zoo or in the wild? Why?
   Example: “I think it should live in the wild, but if it is endangered, zoos can help protect it.”

9. Have you ever seen this animal in real life? If yes, where? If not, where would you like to see it?
   Example: “Yes, I saw it at the Kuala Lumpur Zoo.” / “I’d love to see it in the jungle of Taman Negara.”

10. If you could be this animal for a day, what would you do?
    Example: “If I were a tiger, I would run through the forest and hunt for food.”

Impact on Pupils

The results were encouraging:

• Pupils became more confident in speaking English, especially those in the CEFR Pre-A1, A1 and B1 levels.

• Some students from bilingual households (Thai–Malay) began to use English spontaneously in class activities.

• The fun and engaging nature of the activity created a positive learning climate and reduced the fear of making mistakes.

Reflection and Recommendation

This activity aligns well with CEFR-aligned teaching, especially for young learners in rural and border areas. For future sessions, the following enhancements are suggested:

• Introduce peer feedback rubrics to guide pupils in giving simple compliments or suggestions in English.

• Record pupil presentations as a form of formative assessment and parental engagement (e.g., WhatsApp sharing).

• Link the Show and Talk content to writing activities (e.g., a simple paragraph about “My Favourite Animal”) for integrated language development.

She Loves for Traditional Cloth

Nur Damia Sofea Bt Rahaizul, an 11-year-old student in Year 5 at SK Gual To'Deh, stands out among her peers for her deep appreciation of traditional culture. This morning, she arrived at school wearing a beautiful Kebaya Pendek, a classic piece of Malay traditional attire. Known as a symbol of grace and cultural heritage, the kebaya is rarely worn by children her age, making Damia’s choice both admirable and inspiring.

Her love for traditional and classic clothing reflects a maturity beyond her years. While many young girls today are drawn to modern trends, Damia finds joy in celebrating the past. She explains that she enjoys wearing the kebaya because it makes her feel connected to her heritage. The intricate patterns and elegant design of the Classic Cloth not only enhance her appearance but also spark conversations among teachers and classmates about the beauty of traditional fashion.

Damia’s interest is nurtured by her family, who often expose her to cultural exhibitions, traditional performances, and events that highlight the richness of Malay heritage. Through these experiences, she has developed a deep respect for the customs and values passed down from previous generations.

Her passion is a reminder of how important it is to introduce cultural education at a young age. Students like Damia play a vital role in keeping traditions alive in a rapidly changing world. She represents the new generation who proudly wear their identity — not just on the outside, but in their hearts.

If you're curious about more stories like Damia’s, check out students who preserve cultural heritage and why traditional clothing matters in youth identity.

A Bright Day at SK Gual To’Deh

 SK GUAL TO'DEH - This morning at SK Gual To’Deh, a small yet proud school nestled near the Malaysia-Thailand border, the sunshine bathed our classrooms in golden warmth. The natural brightness seemed to reflect the energy and optimism of our students, creating a cheerful atmosphere that motivated everyone to start the day with a smile. Being in a remote area doesn’t stop our pupils from dreaming big or working hard — in fact, it strengthens their spirit and resilience.

In our classrooms, the students showed excellent enthusiasm, maintaining not only focus on their lessons but also a healthy attitude towards learning. Thanks to the morning’s cool breeze and the sun's gentle rays filtering through the windows, the environment was just right for active engagement. Some students were eager to present during English class, while others confidently asked questions, showing their readiness to improve day by day.

Today was also a proud day for our school, as a group of selected students represented SK Gual To’Deh in a sports tournament held at the district level. These students had trained tirelessly, showing dedication, teamwork, and discipline — qualities that reflect the values we nurture in our school community. Whether they win or lose, they have already made us proud by stepping onto that field with courage and determination.

While they were away, the rest of the students showed support by creating motivational posters and cheering their names. This spirit of unity and encouragement truly defines the character of SK Gual To’Deh. As teachers, we are blessed to witness how every little act — a sunny day, a class discussion, or a sports event — becomes a powerful moment of growth for our young learners.

Here in our humble school at the border, we continue to strive, to shine, and to inspire. And on days like this, filled with sunlight, laughter, and purpose, we are reminded that even in the most rural corners, greatness can blossom.

A Message of Deep Condolences on the Air India Tragedy

SK GUAL TO'DEH - With a heavy heart, I, Khun Matt, extend my deepest condolences to the families, friends, and loved ones affected by the tragic Air India crash. The news of the incident has sent shockwaves across the globe, reminding us all how fragile life truly is. As someone who believes in the strength of community and shared humanity, I feel profoundly saddened by the loss of so many innocent lives.

In moments like this, words may feel inadequate, yet silence cannot convey the sorrow that binds us all. The bravery of the rescue teams and the compassion shown by volunteers during this devastating time are testaments to the human spirit, which rises even in grief.

To those who have lost family members, friends, or colleagues, please know that you are not alone in your pain. Your grief is shared by people far beyond your borders. My thoughts and prayers go out to everyone enduring this heartbreak, especially the children and elderly who now face life without their loved ones.

May the souls of those who perished rest in eternal peace. May those who survived find strength, healing, and support in the days ahead. Tragedies like these remind us to hold our loved ones a little tighter and to cherish each day we are given.

From the depths of my heart, I stand with you in mourning.

With sincere sympathy,
Khun Matt

Whispers of Colour

 SAL ROOM - I have a special ring that I wear almost every day, but only recently did I begin to notice its mysterious quality. At first glance, it looks like a simple piece of jewelry—elegant and understated. But what sets it apart is the stone in its center. This stone, smooth and slightly rounded, has the unique ability to change colour depending on the environment. Over time, I observed that it can turn red, green, and occasionally even purple. The changes happen subtly, often catching me by surprise when I least expect it.

The red hue appears most often when I’m feeling warm or in direct sunlight. It glows gently, almost as if the stone is absorbing the heat or energy around me. In cooler or shaded places, the stone shifts into a calming green—serene and earthy, like it’s connected to nature. But the most fascinating is the rare appearance of purple. It’s deep and mystical, surfacing during moments that feel emotionally charged or unusually still. I’ve only seen this colour a few times, and each time it has left me quietly intrigued.

I never gave the ring much thought when I first received it, but its colour-changing nature makes it feel almost alive—responding silently to its surroundings and perhaps even to my emotions. Now, I look at it differently. It’s more than an accessory; it’s a quiet companion, reflecting the invisible shifts in my environment and, maybe, in me.

Upon my hand, a ring I wear,

Its quiet magic unaware,

Until one day, I stopped to see

The colours it revealed to me.

At first, it burned a ruby red,

As sunlight warmed the skies ahead,

A fiery hue that danced with light,

A pulse of heat, a flame in flight.

Then in the shade, a gentle green,

Like forest leaves or fields serene,

It softened into nature’s breath,

A calm escape from sun and sweat.

But rarest still, the purple came,

A secret shade with no clear name,

It glowed in moments still and deep,

Like dreams that wander out of sleep.

This ring, it seems, can sense the air,

The mood I’m in, the clothes I wear,

The warmth, the cold, the pulse of time—

It mirrors more than just design.

I used to think it just looked nice,

A simple band, a modest price,

But now I see a friend in stone,

That shifts its hues when I’m alone.

So let it change, let colours flow,

Through red and green and purple glow,

A quiet ring, with soul unseen,

A story told in shifting sheen.

A Portrait of Grace

 LUBOK JONG - Gadis Melayu Kelantan

On this year’s Hari Raya Aidiladha, my daughter Hanna Sofea, at the graceful age of 15, embraced her cultural heritage with pride and beauty. Dressed in a traditional Kebaya, she looked stunning and carried herself with a sense of elegance that truly reflected the essence of a Gadis Melayu Kelantan — a true Kelantanese Malay maiden.

The soft flow of her Kebaya, paired with intricate embroidery and delicate patterns, highlighted not just the beauty of the attire, but also the confidence and poise of the young woman wearing it. Her smile radiated joy, and her posture echoed the teachings of our culture — modesty, strength, and grace. As she walked among relatives and friends, there was a quiet admiration in every glance. It was not just her appearance that drew attention, but the way she embodied the values of our traditions.

In that moment, I saw more than my daughter; I saw the legacy of our ancestors reflected in her eyes. She carried with her the pride of being Malay, the warmth of Kelantanese hospitality, and the softness of a heart rooted in faith and family.

The photo I took that day, titled Gadis Melayu Kelantan, captures more than just her image — it holds a story of identity, culture, and timeless beauty. It will always remind us of a special day where heritage and youth met in perfect harmony.

Hanna Sofea, radiated timeless beauty and elegance in her traditional Kebaya on this special Hari Raya. Her graceful presence was further elevated by a delicate gold necklace, a treasured family heirloom, gleaming softly against the intricate fabric.

She walked with poise, not just wearing tradition, but embodying it. A true Gadis Melayu Kelantan, she reflected the strength, warmth, and heritage of her roots.

In her smile, we saw joy.
In her eyes, we saw pride.
And in her image, we saw the beauty of a culture passed from one generation to the next.

This moment, captured in a single frame, will forever remind us of the elegance of tradition and the legacy of our beloved daughter.

Tragedy in Gerik

SK GUAL TO'DEH - Message of Condolence from SK Gual To'Deh

We, the entire community of SK Gual To'Deh, are deeply saddened by the tragic accident that occurred in Gerik involving Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris (UPSI) students. The loss of 15 future educators has touched the hearts of all Malaysians, especially those of us who dedicate our lives to the noble profession of teaching.

As a school that believes in the power of education and the importance of nurturing future generations, we mourn the untimely loss of these young individuals who were on the path to becoming beacons of knowledge and inspiration. These students, with dreams in their eyes and a passion to shape young minds, were taken away far too soon. They were not just students—they were future leaders, mentors, and changemakers.

To the families and loved ones of the victims, we extend our heartfelt condolences. Words can never replace the presence of a beloved child, sibling, or friend. Our thoughts and prayers are with you in this moment of immense grief. May you find strength in the love and support that surrounds you.

This tragedy serves as a painful reminder of how fragile life is. As educators ourselves, we feel a personal connection to the dreams and sacrifices of these students. Their commitment to serve in classrooms across the nation, especially in rural and underserved areas, will never be forgotten.

We hope their legacy will inspire many more to take up the call to teach, to guide, and to lead with compassion. May their souls rest in eternal peace. From the bottom of our hearts, we grieve with UPSI and the entire nation. You will never be forgotten. AL-Fatihah.

A Memorable Dinner: Fried Rice with Homemade Dried Fish

LUBOK JONG - Tonight’s dinner was a simple yet unforgettable meal — fried rice served with homemade dried fish, locally known as ikan kering gelama. The aroma filled the kitchen even before the first bite was taken, and the taste immediately transported me to cherished memories of the past. 

คืนนี้ผมกินข้าวอร่อยเลย

The dried fish was made by my elder sister, Cikja, who is not only a skilled cook but also someone who holds the essence of our family’s culinary heritage. She has a unique ability to bring out deep, nostalgic flavours in her cooking. Every dish she prepares reminds me of our late mother, who was known in our village for her delicious and heartfelt meals.

The ikan kering gelama was perfectly crisp and salty, complementing the hot, fragrant fried rice in a way that was both humble and satisfying. The rice was fried with just the right amount of garlic, shallots, and chili, and a touch of soy sauce. But it was the dried fish that stole the spotlight. Its distinct salty tang brought back memories of childhood dinners around a wooden table, the sound of the radio in the background, and the comfort of family conversations.

As I chewed slowly, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of warmth and gratitude. Food, to me, is more than just sustenance. It is a bridge to the past, a connection to loved ones who are no longer with us, and a reminder of where I come from. Cikja, in her quiet and loving way, continues to carry the legacy of our mother through her cooking. Every time she prepares a meal like tonight’s, she brings back not only flavours but emotions and stories long tucked away in the heart.

In a fast-moving world filled with instant meals and distractions, a dinner like this — made with care, tradition, and memory — is truly priceless. I am thankful for the meal, for my sister, and most of all, for the memory of our mother that continues to live on through every dish we share.

From Flood to Family: The Journey of Nang Nak: จากน้ำท่วมสู่ครอบครัว: เรื่องราวของนังนาก

LUBOK JONG - This evening, at exactly 10 p.m., a special moment unfolded in my home—my beloved cat, Nang Nak, gave birth to two adorable kittens. The joy of witnessing new life begin was deeply emotional, especially considering Nang Nak’s journey. I first met her during a difficult time earlier this year, in early February, when severe flooding affected my school. She was one of the many stray animals seeking refuge, frightened and alone at the temporary shelter set up in our school compound. Among all the animals, Nang Nak caught my attention with her calm eyes and gentle nature. I decided to take her home, unsure of what the future would hold for us both.

Over the past months, Nang Nak has transformed from a timid stray into a warm and affectionate companion. She quickly adjusted to her new surroundings and formed a strong bond with me. When I noticed her belly growing, I suspected she might be pregnant, but tonight confirmed everything.

Her delivery was peaceful and instinctive—she chose a quiet corner and nestled in as nature took its course. The two tiny kittens arrived safely, their soft cries filling the room with life. Watching Nang Nak care for them so lovingly reminds me of the resilience and beauty of animals, even those that come from hardship.

I feel incredibly blessed to be part of this moment. Nang Nak’s story, from shelter cat to proud mother, is a reminder that kindness and second chances can lead to new beginnings—sometimes even two at once.

คืนนี้ เวลา 22.00 น. เกิดเหตุการณ์พิเศษขึ้นที่บ้านของฉัน—แมวที่ฉันรักชื่อ "นังนาก" ได้ให้กำเนิดลูกแมวสองตัวที่น่ารักมากๆ ความสุขจากการได้เห็นชีวิตใหม่ถือกำเนิดขึ้นนั้นเป็นความรู้สึกที่ลึกซึ้ง โดยเฉพาะเมื่อย้อนคิดถึงเรื่องราวของนางนาก

ฉันได้พบกับนางนากครั้งแรกในช่วงต้นเดือนกุมภาพันธ์ ปีนี้ ขณะที่เกิดน้ำท่วมรุนแรงที่โรงเรียนของฉัน เธอเป็นหนึ่งในแมวจรที่หลบภัยอยู่ที่ศูนย์พักพิงชั่วคราวภายในโรงเรียน ท่ามกลางสัตว์มากมาย นางนากดึงดูดสายตาฉันด้วยแววตานิ่งสงบและนิสัยอ่อนโยน ฉันจึงตัดสินใจพาเธอกลับบ้าน แม้ยังไม่แน่ใจว่าจะเกิดอะไรขึ้นต่อไป

ตลอดหลายเดือนที่ผ่านมา นางนากเปลี่ยนไปอย่างสิ้นเชิง จากแมวที่ขี้กลัว กลายเป็นสัตว์เลี้ยงที่น่ารักและผูกพันกับฉันอย่างลึกซึ้ง ฉันสังเกตเห็นท้องของเธอเริ่มโตขึ้น และสงสัยว่าเธออาจตั้งท้อง—จนคืนนี้ ทุกอย่างก็ได้รับการยืนยัน

การคลอดของเธอเป็นไปอย่างสงบ เธอเลือกมุมเงียบๆ และทำตามสัญชาตญาณตามธรรมชาติ ลูกแมวสองตัวคลอดออกมาอย่างปลอดภัย เสียงร้องแผ่วเบาของพวกมันเติมเต็มห้องด้วยความมีชีวิตชีวา

ฉันรู้สึกโชคดีมากที่ได้เป็นส่วนหนึ่งของช่วงเวลานี้ เรื่องราวของนางนาก จากแมวจรจัดสู่การเป็นแม่ผู้ยิ่งใหญ่ เป็นเครื่องเตือนใจว่า ความเมตตาและโอกาสครั้งที่สอง สามารถนำไปสู่การเริ่มต้นใหม่—บางครั้งก็ถึงสองชีวิตพร้อมกันเลยทีเดียว

Edward Jenner Short Biography

Edward Jenner, born on 17 May 1749 in the small town of Berkeley, Gloucestershire, England, is widely celebrated as the “Father of Immunology.” His remarkable contribution to medicine — the development of the smallpox vaccine — laid the foundation for the global practice of vaccination and transformed the field of public health forever. His work not only introduced a safer way to prevent one of the deadliest diseases in history but also initiated a new era in medical science that eventually led to the eradication of smallpox.

Jenner was the eighth of nine children in the family of Reverend Stephen Jenner, a local vicar, and his wife, Sarah. His early education took place in Wotton-under-Edge and Cirencester, where he studied the basics of classical and scientific knowledge. At the age of eight, Jenner underwent variolation, the traditional method of smallpox inoculation that involved exposure to the actual smallpox virus. This procedure, although somewhat protective, often caused severe illness and could even lead to death. His own difficult experience with variolation sparked a lifelong concern about safer methods of disease prevention.

At the age of 14, Jenner began a seven-year apprenticeship under Daniel Ludlow, a surgeon in Chipping Sodbury. There, he learned surgical skills and practical medicine. In 1770, he furthered his studies at St. George’s Hospital in London under the mentorship of John Hunter, one of the most respected surgeons and scientists of his time. Hunter recognized Jenner's potential and encouraged his curiosity and observational skills. Their friendship continued through life, marked by active correspondence and scientific discussions.

Jenner returned to Berkeley in 1772 to begin his medical practice as a surgeon and general physician. While carrying out common medical procedures of the time — including the then-standard variolation for smallpox — he became increasingly interested in the popular rural belief that milkmaids who contracted cowpox were immune to smallpox. Cowpox, a relatively mild disease caught from cows, caused minor symptoms in humans, usually only a few sores and slight illness. Yet, those who had suffered from it appeared to resist later smallpox infections.

This folk observation, combined with Jenner’s medical curiosity and his own unpleasant experience with variolation, encouraged him to investigate further. In May 1796, an opportunity arose when Sarah Nelmes, a local milkmaid, came to Jenner with a rash on her hand. Jenner identified it as cowpox. With Sarah’s consent, he took pus from her lesion and inoculated an eight-year-old boy named James Phipps, the son of his gardener. The boy developed mild symptoms of cowpox but recovered quickly. A few weeks later, Jenner exposed James to smallpox through traditional variolation — and to Jenner’s great relief, the boy did not develop the disease. Repeated exposures showed continued immunity.

This experiment marked the first scientific proof that cowpox infection could protect against smallpox. Jenner had developed a safe and effective way to prevent smallpox, avoiding the risks of traditional variolation. His method, which he called vaccination (from vacca, the Latin word for cow), used material from cowpox to build immunity to smallpox.

Although Jenner's achievement was revolutionary, it was not immediately accepted by the medical community. Many doctors, especially variolators who earned high incomes from the old method, were resistant to change. There were also practical challenges: cowpox was not widespread, and early attempts to replicate Jenner’s procedure often failed due to contaminated samples. Additionally, in an age when the concept of viruses and germ theory was not yet fully understood, some people feared that introducing animal disease into the human body could lead to strange side effects.

Despite these challenges, Jenner continued to promote his findings and publish his research. His most famous work, An Inquiry into the Causes and Effects of the Variolae Vaccinae (1798), provided detailed evidence of his experiments. Slowly, support grew. Influential physicians began to adopt his methods, and governments across Europe and beyond recognized the value of his discovery. In 1803, the British government established the National Vaccine Establishment, and Jenner was granted a financial reward for his work.

Jenner’s discovery had a lasting global impact. By the 19th century, vaccination had spread across Europe, India, and the Americas. Over time, mass vaccination campaigns led to a significant reduction in smallpox cases. Eventually, in 1980, the World Health Organization officially declared smallpox eradicated — the first disease in human history to be eliminated through human effort, thanks to the foundational work of Edward Jenner.

A Gift of Love - ของขวัญแห่งความรัก

ที่บ้าน- Alhamdulillah, I am grateful to share a meaningful part of my life — a cherished jewelry collection gifted to the two most precious people in my world: my beloved wife and my dear daughter. This collection is not merely a display of wealth, but a heartfelt expression of love, appreciation, and gratitude for everything they are and everything they have given me.

The collection consists of two beautiful necklaces, each carefully chosen to reflect their unique personalities. One features a classic gold design with fine craftsmanship, symbolising my wife's elegance and inner strength. The other, with a more youthful and stylish touch, suits my daughter’s cheerful and lively character.

Included in the collection is also a delicate bracelet, a symbol of unity and affection. Simple yet elegant, it is meant to be worn on memorable days, as a token of our unbreakable family bond. The rings — one for my wife and one for my daughter — hold special significance. My wife’s ring, engraved with our initials, represents our journey together, while my daughter’s ring is a gift to celebrate her growth and transition into a young lady.

The total value of this collection is approximately RM43,000. However, its true worth lies in the emotions it carries. My wife has been my constant support through every trial, and my daughter continues to be a source of light and joy in my life.

This collection is a humble way of saying thank you — for their love, sacrifices, and presence. May it always remind them how deeply they are loved and honoured.

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