Feature article, cell phones and student use

Cell phones are one of the greatest inventions of the century and are now widely used the most convenient form of communication device. Every country, every state, we see people walking talking with their cell phones, more so in school, where cell phones are used so frequently, in fact, too frequently that a rule have to be put up to prohibit the use of cell phones in class. The cell phones greatest users are the students, because of their mass messaging entertainment and their needs for easy communication when doing projects. What attract the students to using the cell phones is not only about the convenience alone but also the entertainment it provide like games.
There are many disadvantages to using the cell phones, and it is still arguable whether it is a curse or a blessing to the society, especially students. In modern days, the internet is not the only platform for playing games. In fact, the cell phone is a much more convenient and portable platform to play games than a bulky computer, especially in the busy school life of students in this era. The common sight of students with an iphone in hand is a really good example to show the convenience of gaming with the cell phone. The iphone enables convenience download of games from the app store any time, and with students having such technology at hand will be disastrous if not handled with self-control, which will eventually distract them from their studies.
It is also true that the cell phone had brought lots of convenience to us. One of the main reasons why cell phones are one of the greatest inventions is its convenience of communication. People being able to reach each other in any part of the world have definitely caused the world to become smaller. This “world-shrinking technology” will allow conference and collaborative learning much easier and attractive, especially for students. Instant messaging has become one of the students’ favorite forms of communication and what is so amazing about that is the effortless way of generating ideas and telling it to your classmates in the minute of typing a few buttons.
There are disadvantages for cell phones, but there is nothing in the world that is perfect, therefore, solutions are needed to curb the problems that cell phones give. Normally, when students use cell phones too much, the very root of the problem boils down to cell phone gaming. Parents can of course control their child at home, but the cell phone is too easily portable and would constantly be out of the parent’s control. The best way to counter this problem is to buy the phone with functions only to call and to message, which greatly reduces the chances of the child getting hooked onto cell phone gaming. In the end, it in fact boils own all to the self-control of the student, and he or she needs to prioritize whether their studies or the cell phone gaming comes first.
Cell phone for student usage is a controversial topic that in my opinion would never get an final conclusion whether it is a blessing or a curse. However, what the world can do is to point out the disadvantages of cell phone and try to change it. Normally, the functions that cause the disadvantages of using cell phones are the functions that enhance the advantageous functions. Cell phone definitely enabled easier communication, but is it worth have that convenience to risking some youths neglecting their studies?

Dear grandmother Tokiko Kanno,

I am Sim WenHong from Hwa Chong Institution, Singapore. The world knows that Japan is now facing a great economic crisis and the people there are suffering, with people losing their loved ones, houses being swept away by the monstrous tidal waves. I have all seen it on television. It is indeed a heart wrenching moment when I saw those images and I believe that other Singaporeans also think so. Thus, we are also doing their best to help Japan by raising funds. With these funds, food supplies and daily necessities can be provided to you and the fellow victims of Japan. Although now is a hard time, I believe that Japan, given its good economic status will recover fast, so take care of yourself, especially that you are in your old age. I have gotten notice that you have been sleeping in the school hall for a few days now, shelters will be provided soon and elderly people such as you will be given the priority. Singapore’s media is also trying to raise funds for Japan by putting up advertisements to encourage the raising of funds, not only Singapore, the whole world is also doing their best to aid Japan in getting through this tough times. They have sent teams to provide basic necessities and shelter for your people. Japan, you must know that you are not alone, the whole world is watching and praying for your economic, and more so, you, and the fellow citizens of Japan. Thus, do not worry too much. I can never understand your feelings, although I tried many times, but Singapore and I hope that the victims will get on with their life, and not stay in self pity. It is times like this where a nation has to be strong and the people have to get back on their feet.

I understand that you are concerned about the recent radiation leak form the nuclear plant. A few number of people have already went to curb the situation. Thus, the situation is still in control. Lastly, be strong, Japan, we care.