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24 February 2016

Initiatives + Company Games, 19 Febuary 2016


Hello Guides! (:

For last Friday’s 集合 we had initiatives and company games!

We sat down at classroom 3J and were briefed by the ICs regarding the activity. We were doing blow paint art as one coy! The following are the procedures:

1.      Mix paint with some water and ensure that it is thick enough.

2.      Drop one end of the straw into paint and immediately blow across the canvas

3.      Let your creativity flow!

We were given one canvas board and had to complete a blow paint art piece as a patrol! Here are some pictures of the process!







 

Our guider, Ms Sim, then took on the role of a judger and picked her favourite one out of the 6 patrols. P6 Morning Glory was the winner!


Thoughts from a Year 2…
Our patrol decided to use this art method to draw a heart which symbolises "one heart one mind". Throughout the whole 1 hour, our whole patrol worked well together and completed the design in time. We managed to all agree on the design in seconds and everyone played a part, some cut out the design to place over the canvas, while others blew the paint & mixed them. Overall, we came up with a great rationale too and won first place as our artwork was simple and pretty. The first place also had an advantage to the running man+ capture the flag company game later on. Everyone was proud of our work and every patrol's design was unique.


Afterwards was company games, where we played "Capture The Flag" ! The following are the instructions:

·         The company will be playing patrol-against-patrol. Each patrol will be using the boards they have decorated during Initiatives as their “flag”.

·         Each patrol will have their own campsite (classroom) in Block F and G (the playing area) to hide their flags. P1 will be on Block G Level 4, P2 on Level 5, and P3 on Level 6. P4 will be on Block F Level 4, P5 on Level 5 and P6 on Level 6.

·         They can choose any classroom on their assigned level to hide the flag but after they choose the location, they are not allowed to move the flag anymore

·         During the first 10 minutes, patrols are allowed to do anything they want. They are allowed to roam their level, the entire block, playing area or just stay in their classroom.

·         However, at the end of 10 minutes, only 2 people from each patrol are allowed to remain in their classroom and the rest of the patrol must roaming. This is to prevent patrols from merely camping in their classrooms defending their flags.

·         Before the game starts, each patrol will be given a certain patrol to hunt. They can only eliminate members and take the flag of that particular patrol. This is to allow patrols to forge alliances and possibly play mind games with one another.

·         To eliminate people, they must pull the白绳tied around the other person completely.

·         To steal the flag, the patrol must be holding the flag for 3 seconds. After the patrol steals the flag successfully, they can hide the flag in a classroom different from their original one.

·         Eliminated people are to go to GSL for physical training.

·         Patrols with their flags taken can attack any patrol they want, regardless of which patrol they are assigned.

Thoughts from a Year 2…
When the game started, it was really intense because we were not aware of the patrol which was assigned to attack us. As the game proceeded, the tension rose higher because we realised who our opponents were, and the game was becoming very strategic because the relationship between various patrols were very complicated. With careful strategising and tactful allying with the other patrols, we managed to safe keep our flag and successfully attack 2 of the patrol members from our target patrol. All in all, it was an extremely fun experience for my patrol and I.

Hope everyone enjoyed themselves for this rather light-hearted and fun 集合!

Cheers,
Michelle
47th Batch Secretary

18 February 2016

Batch Activity 12 Febuary 2016


For last Friday’s 集合, the year 2s and year 3s were split into their batches and they carried out their respective batch activity. After attire check, the year 2s 集合-ed to the Company Leader and year 3s to the Assistant Company Leader.
 
Year 2 Batch Activity
Inspection: For the first section of the activity, without any hints or details about the inspection, the year 2s were first given 5 minutes to make their 小队箱 neater, familiarising with the logistics in the process. Afterwards, they were told to pair up and pack their 配备(2 juniors to 1 配备) according to the list of logistics that were being told to them. They were given 5 minutes to do so, in which they had to ask for an extension. However, they still exceeded the time limit and as a forfeit, they were required to do 10 burpies. The task was as followed. Out of the pair, one would be blindfolded while one would have a limitation to her movements, such as being unable to use her hands. The aim was to promote communication between the pair and amongst the batch. They then had to lay out their logistics according to a layout given to them within 6 minutes. In the end, because of they were unable to complete the task the first time, they were subsequently told to 集合, pack up, and re-layout their logistics for another five times or so. Of which, there was once that both in the pair could see and use their hands. Finally, after many attempts, the year 2s managed to complete their first ever inspection.  








 
Thoughts from a Year 2…
The inspection was the first 配备 inspection we year 2s had to do without the help of the year 3s. We were uncertain of how we had to exactly go about doing everything, despite given the list of items to pack and the inspection layout. It was quite chaotic, with how one member is blindfolded and the other not being able to do anything. Some of us, like me, forgot to bring down certain items and that itself was already a major problem. However, as time went by, we could see ourselves slightly improving little by little. The inspection was certainly an eye-opener for myself as I got to experience first-hand how an inspection would be like without our seniors there taking charge. Though we did go through a few inspections before (ATC etc) it was a different to have to do it yourself as a batch, without the help of your seniors. All in all, though we did not manage to complete the inspection within the given time, I think we did learn the purpose behind the activity itself. 
Thoughts from a Year 2…
At first, I was slightly apprehensive about inspection because, after all, this was our first time having inspection without our seniors guiding us along the way. I was very worried that I would forget to bring any required 配备 stuff. Fortunately, we asked around when we were unsure and we eventually remembered to bring most of the items. At the start of inspection, I was at a complete lost because I was blind-folded and my partner wasn't giving me any instructions. However, eventually, my partner was patiently giving me clearer instructions on where to put what. Even so, we were generally very slow during our inspection and lacked sense of urgency. I think we should buck up on our communication skills and sense of urgency. We should also help each other along the way and have a better sense of solidarity because we are a batch and should be united as one. This is indeed a very enriching session since we were able to know our capability and assess our weakness. Moreover, this session compelled us to be independent and not being too reliant on our seniors to guide us. It also ensured that we were equipped with the right skills so that we could be role models to our juniors. 
Physical Training: The year 2s ran one round around each level until sixth level within 8 minutes. Afterwards, they did circuits consisting of running 3 rounds around the GSL, 5 minutes leg raise, 20 burpees and 20 jumping jacks for 40 minutes. During which, we, the year 4s did the entire physical training segment together with them in order to motivate them along.

 
Thoughts from a Year 2…
I think the PT helped to train both our perseverance as well as stamina. It also allows us to work together and cheer each other on to complete it. I do not usually do physical training except during Physical education, so this activity pushed me to my limits-both mental and physical. It also gives us a sense of satisfaction after completing the required tasks, teaching us that we have to work hard to achieve our goals.  Physical training also makes us fitter, and hence, can help to increase our sense of urgency as we can move from one place to another at a faster pace while carrying heavy things like spars. This PT improved the bonds between our fellow batch mates because we do not have batch activities very often. Hence, this allows us to bond while pushing on and persevering to finish the circuits and the staircase exercise. Overall, it was a beneficial experience.
 
Year 3 Batch Activity
Mass Change: The year 3s were first given 6 minutes to change into their Guides uniform, and afterwards 5 minutes to change back to PE attire. Another 4 minutes to change into their uniform and 4 minutes to change back into PE attire.
 
Thoughts from a Year 3…
We all prepared for mass change harbouring a nervous mindset. No one knew what to expect, but we all knew it would be very tough. We started off by gathering at the 2nd level of the General Science Lab (GSL), before the Y4s broke us off to change into our guides uniform in a time limit of 6 minutes. It was more than the standard timing, however we did not have a sense of urgency and were quite slow in our action. We reached back by 5 minutes, already feeling tired, but we still had to change back into our PE attire, this time however in 5 minutes. We tried our best and made it back safely after asking for a time extension. This continued for around two more times, each being 4 minutes each, and it really exhausted us inside out as we were not used to such gruelling training ever since ATC. I am quite satisfied with the results though, because I know I put in my best efforts and I will try even harder next time. Our batch certainly needs to improve our stamina and physical strengths!
 
Gadgeting:  The year 3s were tasked to retrieve their logistics (All the gadget poles, half bamboo, sufficient 白绳) and lay them out according to a specific layout. However only at the 7 minute mark was the instruction to lay out the logistics given for the sake of including a surprise element into this activity and to test their adaptability in unforeseen circumstances. For the next 55 minutes, 2 patrols of year 3s will combine and build a baggage rack, and a kitchen dresser and any meaningful improvements to the gadgets. Additional logistics can be taken, at a forfeit of 5 pumpings per logistic. It was required that at any point in time one person should be in charged and give instructions without the actual allocation of an I/C.
Pairings:
P1 and P6
P2 and P5
P3 and P4




 
Thoughts from a Year 3…
We were very fast to bring the gadgets poles back to the location, however, we were taken by surprise when we were presented by a surprise inspection. As such, many of us were very confused and it was chaos as there was no one who stepped up to give clear instructions. Thus, we took a lot of time to sort all the gadget poles out equally among all 6 patrols. Even after extra time was given to neaten and distribute the gadget poles evenly, we did not change the layout much and this ended up in a very messy and disorganised layout. I felt that we should not have been so absorbed into our own patrol's layout, but rather appoint someone to look at the big picture and instruct from there. Also, those who were reading the layout should have said it louder and clearer so everyone could hear it and there will be lesser conflicts. After inspection, we had gadgeting where we were split into 3 groups with 2 patrols in it, and tasked to build a baggage rack, kitchen dresser as well as a meaningful improvement. In my group, we split ourselves further into our patrols to build one gadget each. We planned to come together to build the improvement after we have completed our assigned gadgets. However, we should have just mixed both patrols so that we were more even and we can work with each other rather than individually. In addition, we did not step up and there was no clear person stepping up to lead both of our patrols. Thus, no one took notice of the time and we did not have any time to complete the task given. Overall, I felt that we could have done much better for this activity and simple things such as 报时 constantly, our sense of urgency and our physical stamina should be improved upon.
Thoughts from a Year 3…
For the gadgeting section of 集合,my patrol combined the kitchen dresser with the baggage rack to save time. Our meaningful improvement was a shoe rack, which we tied to the gadget. However, it was not very practical as the kitchen dresser was usually in the kitchen shelter while the baggage rack was in the tent, and our bags may get dirty if we prepare food on the kitchen dresser. We spent quite a bit of time discussing what to do, and I think we could have spent more of that time building the gadget so that we did not 过时. We started to slow down a bit once we managed to get time extension. I think we could have worked faster so that we did not need to ask for time extension, and we need to remember to ask for time extension before the time was up as we kept on asking for time extension after we 过时ed. We also 过时ed quite a lot so we need to improve our sense of urgency. Some of our lashes were not very tight due to the time constraint. We need to tie tighter lashes in the future and take note of the quality of the lashes even if we don't have much time.
 
After all the strenuous activities, the guides headed to the canteen where we had a mini Chinese New Year Celebration! We were welcomed with some food and punch! We then sat with our patrols and had a special patrol’s corner for 30 minutes before break off! Hope that this 集合 has been exceptionally rewarding in terms of knowledge gained for everyone!
 
Cheers,
Michelle
47th Batch Secretary

10 February 2016

Patrol Activity, 5 Febuary 2016


Hello Guides! (:

For last Friday’s 集合, we had patrol activity for the first 2 and a half hours. The following are accounts from the Year 3s of the respective patrols!

P1 Bougainvillea:
Friday's 集合 consisted of a mini obstacle journey (OJ) for Patrols 1,4 and 5. It came off as a shock because none of us expected that there would be a 配备 inspection for the first part of it. It was very chaotic as we could not find some belongings like our FAP, and had to borrow from another patrol. We were given 5 minutes to standardise and compact our layout, and fortunately we managed to finish it within the time limit. After clearing up, we were told to do the layout once more, however this time in 4 minutes. We were panicking and in the end some of our logistics were not arranged in order. Overall, I still feel that we did a pretty good job for the inspection.

The first station was at the GSL itself and our patrol was tasked to set up an 8-men tent, boil water, and build a 旗杆. We split ourselves up into different sections, and I, having to build the 旗杆, was a little confused at first. The whole thing also did not turn out to be an equilateral triangle, and we did face some problems with the flag as it was upside down for the first few times we did it. We asked for time extensions repeatedly, yet the structure still had some flaws and we were quite slow in the process.

At the second station, half of the patrol had to separate, one half having to do a PT circuit, consisting of 4mins战马步, 3 mins leg raise, 35 burpies and 40 seconds planking while the other half had to build a structure that could supposedly transport the patrol across the river. It was hard to lead the patrol as we were too focused on doing the PT and were distracted from the original task at hand. Then, we had to do 2 rounds of lunges around the MRL in 10 minutes, and we needed to reach a target of 250 Kallang wave pumpings before the next patrol arrives at the station. It was tiring, but we felt accomplished.

 The last station, tested on both our pioneering and first aid skills. Again, a few of our patrol members were casualties, and the rest of us had to build another structure that could enable us to cross to the other side, while transporting all our logistics, to help treat them. Even though we did not study our guides notes, we still managed to apply some basic first aid knowledge and skills, completing the task in time.

Lastly, when we returned to the GSL awaiting further instructions, we were surprised to find out that OJ was not finished. The combined three patrols, had to think of a structure that could elevate and support one patrol's worth of people, as we were in a simulated flood. Given 18 minutes, we planned to build a basic quartpod with 4 顶角s only. We sent three people to retrieve the remaining and then we set out to build our structure. In the end, our idea was fine but it was not feasible as the 顶角 was at knee level and it was mentioned beforehand that the floods would rise beyond our knees. In a real life situation, we would drown and we had to improve on this fact. Finally, after completing our OJ, we practised our marching for the upcoming thinking day at the MRL. Overall, it was both physically and mentally exhausting, but we all learnt how to improve our sense of urgency and to work harder in our weaker areas (PT, pioneering etc).

 

P2 Ixora:

This 集合 my patrol had mass change as the first segment. We were first given 7 minutes to go up to 3H and change into our guides uniform, and 集合 at level 2 GSL. However, we 过时ed and only managed to arrive at 7 min 30 seconds. We were then given 3 minutes to change out of our guides uniform into PE. This was repeated again as we could not meet the timing but this time we had 4 minutes to change into our guides uniform. We didn't manage to meet the time limit on both tries as we were not used to changing so quickly yet and the year 2s did not have much experience under their belt. We learnt that the standard time for changing out of guides uniform into PE was 2 minutes and changing from PE to guides uniform was a maximum of 3 minutes. We also learnt that there was a certain order to wearing the guides uniform and we could plan ahead to save time. I think we, especially the year 3s, need to improve our timing for mass change as Patrol Leader Training Camp is coming soon.

For the next part of
集合 we had to build a seesaw. The PL and PS were shown the proposal. We took quite a long time to build the quadpod and had to 重打 everything as the quadpod could not open  properly. We built the plank concurrently  with the quadpod to speed up the process but our progress was still very slow. There was some confusion regarding the 定脚 as we did not know whether the should be tied inwards or outwards. In the end we managed to build the seesaw even though we 过时ed by quite a lot. We had some time to play with the seesaw. I think it was the first time building the seesaw for the year 2s and some of the year 3s too. It was a fun experience for us, especially when all our patrol mates had a chance to go on the seesaw.

The last part of
集合 was foot drills for the thinking day parade. We (as in the year 3s) practised marching on the spot the most as we forgot to point our toes downward and bend our legs at 90 degrees. It was a good recap for all of us and helped us to familiarise with all the commands, ensuring that we were up to standard. We had a combined foot drill at the end to familiarise ourselves with or positions and who is next to us.






 

P3 Jasmine:

On Friday, we had physical training (PT) followed by creative gadgets. Firstly, we did 2 parts of PT. The first was to complete a circuit of 20 sit-ups, 20 burpees and 3 minutes leg raise within a time span of 15 minutes. The second was to do 20 push-ups, 20 squats and 2 minutes girls-style pumping position for 15 minutes. Meanwhile, one person will do lunges around the corridor and do 20 jumping jacks at the end. As most of us did not have PT for a very long time, we thought it was exhausting both physically and mentally after each set. However, this was overcome with cheering to boost the patrol morale. With the perseverance and determination to complete the task as a patrol, we bonded more and managed to know one another better.

After PT, we had lashes test that was broken into 2 parts. The first was to build 2 tripods with their 顶角s within 10 minutes. The second was to tie 4 A-s and 3 diagonal lashes within 5 minutes. Both were to be done twice, with evaluation on the second try. I was PS for the first part and PL for the second part. Although we had low manpower of only 5 members, I found that it did not hinder our progress in tying our lashes quickly and tightly. This being said, we needed to be more mindful of our belongings and take good care of them, as through this activity, we had our box of 白绳 taken away and had to bear the consequences to retrieve it. Also, our patrol morale was low and 报时 was inconsistent. In addition, the seniors pointed some tips that we should follow, such as the 顶角s on the tripod and how high the lash for the A- should be tied. After that, we proceeded on to do creative gadgeting. We were given a task to build a mini Eiffel Tower with 2长木,4中长木,14中木, and 4 中短木 with a time limit of 25 minutes. We decided to build it using 2 identical trapezium frames, connecting them with diagonals and attach a quad-pod on the top. We were quick in building the frames and attaching the diagonals but due to the gradual decrease sense of urgency, we eventually had to ask for time extension. Also, our 白绳 and one of our 中短木 was taken away. While we were building the structure, we were called out individually to for a test on our first-aid. This took us by surprise as we did not read the guides notes for a long time. However, we managed to get most of them correct and felt satisfied and proud by the end of patrol activity.





 
P4 Orchid:
For skills training this week, P1, P4 and P5 had combined Obstacle journey. Before setting off on our journey, we were instructed to come up with an inspection layout and standardise our layout through the three patrols in 5 minutes, after which we were instructed to pack up , and then layout the contents of the 配备 in under 3 minutes. For these two activities, I think we did fairly decent as we did not exceed our time limit. For the obstacle journey itself, being a combined activity with 3 patrols only, there were only 3 stations. The first station that P4 was to report to was at the MRL where the Y3s were to do PT and instruct the Y2s on what to do. The task was to build a 'bridge' across a 'river'. Due to certain complications , we were short of time and had to our bridge soon after it was built.

Our second station was at the open space on Level 2. Our task was to transport our logistics across a 'mud trench' and treat our patrol members who were designated casualties. We first tried to lower the logistics to the other side by attaching them to a yellow spar like a fishing rod however it was very difficult and our logistics fell and disappeared into the mud trench. We did manage to use that method to transport our 配备across but eventually we used the yellow spars as a bridge and placed it across the trench with our patrol members holding the logistics to get to the other side. I feel that this station showed us that we had much to improve on. We should have thought our ideas through more thoroughly so that we could carry it out more efficiently. Also our first aid skills can be brushed up on as we did not fair very well in that section.

Our third station was at the GSL where we had to put up a flag, boil water and build a dome tent. Due to the wet weather, we built our flag to a bench. I think we did okay for this station though there was some confusion in the way to roll up the door and flysheet of the tent. At the end of our OJ, or so we thought, we were hit with a fourth station which we were to get through together. Our task was to build a structure to elevate 7 people from rising knee height flood waters. We built a quad pod with 定脚s as our elevated platform as well as our extra 青木 as a bench in the middle . Though it was simple and effective in elevating the people, we forgot that the water was at knee height and was rising. As a result, our structure was not as effective due to the given situation as our platform was at knee height. I think we could have considered the given scenario more carefully so as to avoid such blunders.



P5 Sunflower:

Today, right after we 集合-ed, we had attire check immediately. Following which, we were broken off into respective patrols to do our patrol activity. P1, P4 and P5 had combined PA as well as a mini OJ.

First of all, we were given a time limit to take all the logistics required for OJ, which included  the 配備 and the 青木s. Then, we 集合-ed again at the GSL and next, we were told to lay out the OJ logistics. We managed to complete that within the time limit. After which, we had to pack everything into the 配備 and we repeated this twice, with the 2nd try completed within a shorter time limit.

After that, we started our OJ. For P5, our station order was 3, 1, 2.

Our first station was at the Open Space above the Cafe. At that station, we were tested on our knowledge of the first aid skills, as well as our ability to improvise and prioritise our needs. The problems at the station was that there was a mud trench separating our patrol members, and that we had 3 casualties-- one suffering from an ankle injury, another from a right collarbone fracture, and the last one from heat exhaustion. While treating the casualties, we had to build a structure which could transport logistics from one side of the mud trench to another. Although we were a little unsure about our first aid skills, we managed to get administer of the treatment methods correctly. However, our structure was not really feasible as it was not very stable to walk on (as we chose to transport logistics by walking on our structure from one end to another).

Our next station was at the GSL. At this station, I was the Patrol Leader, and our task was to build a dome tent, a flagpole with boundary, as well as to set up a fire to boil water. I allocated 2 people to build the flagpole, 2 people to build the dome tent, and 3 people to boil the water. However, I realised later that the boiling of water did not need as much manpower, and that I should have allocated more manpower to build the flagpole and the dome tent instead. During the activity, too many people helped with setting up the boundary, and I forgot to allocated one person to look after the fire, which could be a potential hazard as well. Even though I made many mistakes in this activity, I am glad to have learnt a lot as well.

At the third station, we went to the MRL and the Year 3s had to do PT circuits while the Year 2s built a structure similar to a bridge so that we could cross from one side to another during a flood. After which, we did kallang wave pumping as a patrol, and managed to do 400+ in total. Overall, this station really brought a sense of accomplishment to our patrol and helped to unify us through the tough exercises.











P6 Morning Glory:

For PA during Friday's 集合, we did gadgeting and physical training. For the first part of gadgeting, we were supposed to build 3 structures in 3 different classrooms. However, we were only told to build 1 quadpod, 2 tripods and 2 A- in 10 minutes at first, and the Y4s told the PL the extra criteria to add on to complete the structure halfway through the activity. I felt that we could have had a better sense of urgency and complete our structure as fast as possible although the time given seemed quite long at first. Also, we could have taken care of our logistics better by shifting it nearer to a classroom so that there would be at least one person who can take care of the logistics instead of leaving it in its original position. From this activity, I learnt that although there might not be a lot of time given, we should still do our best and tie tight lashes and amend mistakes when we notice them although we might have felt that it is not as important during that time.

For the second part of gadgeting, we were supposed to build 2 structures and only the PL is allowed to see the proposal. Being the PL for that part, I felt that I could give clearer instructions as my patrol mates are not able to understand some of the instructions and quite some time was taken to get the information across. I learnt to think about the way I phrase the instructions so that there would be less confusion. Also, we could have cheered more to increase our patrol morale. From these 2 activities, I learnt how to communicate with my patrol mates better and how important it is to communicate efficiently. 

For physical training, we were split into 2 groups and we did physical activities like lunges and running along the corridor, jumping jacks, burpies, Kallang wave pumpings and leg raise to increase our stamina.







 
After PA, the guides 集合-ed at GSL before heading to the area outside MRL where we practised out footdrills by batches as Thinking Day is drawing near! We then 集合-ed together as a and did footdrills as a whole. That wraps up last Friday’s 集合! Hope everyone had a fruitful session and Happy Chinese New Year!

Cheers,
Michelle
47th Batch Secretary