Skills Training, 24th March

Hello fellow Guides! Last Friday, we had Skills Training during 集合. The Year 5 Alumni returned to train the Year 3s in preparation for the upcoming Patrol Leader’s Training Camp (PLTC), while the Year 1s and Year 2s had separate events planned by the Year 4s. Let’s start off with the activities that the Year 3s had.

Reflection from a Year 3:

Friday's 集合 was conducted by the Year 5 Alumni. At first, my batch and I were quite nervous about this 集合. While we felt that it was good that they were probably going to train us for the upcoming PLTC, we were afraid that the activities planned out would be quite tough. However, contrary to our expectations, we went back to the basics first, revising our basic lashes such as the quadpod and diagonal lash. For this activity, we split into three groups and helped one another. I think this segment was well-planned as it is very important that we have a strong foundation of our knowledge of lashes first before we can go on to build bigger and more large-scale structures.  Next, in our three groups, we were tasked to build a tower. Groups 1 and 3 would built the main towers and mainframes while Group 2 would build the bridge connecting the two towers. I felt that this activity was very beneficial as it allowed people to step up amongst our own batch, and helped us to improve our communication skills greatly. It was really heartening when I saw the typically more quiet people step up and lead the entire batch in building this structure. Although we had various areas of improvement, such as more constant 报时, greater sense of urgency and tighter lashes, to me, this 集合 really helped to bond my batch even more in the sense that we were always cheering and helping one another whenever we saw anyone needed help. I look forward to more 集合s where we can continue to forge ties and build stronger bonds not only among our batch or patrol but among the entire 团 as well. 

Concurrently, the Year 1s and 2s were having a different event. There was a short creative gadgeting session, then there was Batch Physical Training (PT) afterwards.

For the creative gadgeting, these were the instructions:

Item	Quantity	Remark
短木/中短木	8	Patrols can choose which to take
中木	10
中长木	8
长木	6
Short half/full bamboos	8	Patrols can choose which to take

Each patrol will be tasked to collect the following logistics

They are allowed to exchange among one another, but they should not take more logistics than stated. Each patrol is given 30 mins to build a multipurpose campsite structure which should meet the following criteria:
• At least 2 tripods. 

• At least 5 diagonal lashes

• Netting

• Rafting

Most of the patrols decided to build a baggage rack, with only Patrol 5 (P5) deciding to build a bench. Here are some reflections from the Year 2s.

Reflection from Year 2 of Patrol 3 (P3 built a baggage rack):

My patrol decided to build a baggage rack, with the only change being that the two A-架s were replaced by two tripods. As for the top layer, we only netted half of the space and the other half was left empty. We also rafted half-bamboos onto one side of the rack. Since we were tasked with building a multi-purpose structure, we decided to design our baggage rack in this way because the bottom layer and half of the top layer of the rack, which was netted, can be used to place pots, pans and other things such as food. Furthermore, plates can also be arranged in between the half-bamboos and towels, while cloth can be hung on the 木 which is empty.

The reason why we chose to improvise the baggage rack to become our final product was because we felt that it would be much more easier for us to understand the how the overall structure would look like. However, I felt that we still took too much time to decide on what we wanted to build because when we had finished discussing, many other patrols were already making progress on their structures. Also, I felt that we could have cheered more to increase our patrol morale as we were quite quiet throughout the whole activity. We could also have a better sense of urgency as we could not complete the whole structure on time due to the wastage of time in the beginning.

Reflection from Year 2 of Patrol 5 (P5 built a bench):

Last Friday, we built a multi purpose bench, using two tripods as the main frames. We included rafting and netting as well. In the beginning, we had agreed upon build a baggage rack. However, after much consideration, we decided to alter our design into a bench as it was more creative. Also, it is multi functional and we would be able to place anything, from plates and cups to pots and pans on it. Not only can we put our logistics on it, we would be able to sit together and bond with one another, thus strengthening our relationships. Moreover, if anyone were to get injured, she can rest there and hence be able to recover more speedily.

I was pleased that our patrol's structure was different from the other patrols', which clearly showcased how creative we were. However, I believe that if we had appointed one person to take charge, we would have been able to complete the structure much faster as much clearer instructions could have been given out. Also, our lashes were quite loose and I hope that we can work on them and ensure that they are much tighter in the future. Lastly, we would take note next time to have a clear plan in mind what we are going to build beforehand so that we can be certain in telling the year one what they can do to help.

Next, there was Batch Physical Training whereby 3 stations were set up. Here are some more details of the station activities, as well as some reflections from the Year 1s.

Station 1:

Area of focus: Leg strength and stamina

In this station, Guides are given a maximum of 20 mins to complete one length of lunges, followed by running around the rest of the block, and 20 jumping jacks before running up to the next level and repeating until level 6. They will then run back down the stairs to level 1 without having to run around the block. 

Reflection from a Year 1:

After completing station 1, I felt that the batch bonded a lot. Guides who were faster would encourage Guides who were slower, waiting for them and asking one another if they were alright. We would cheer as loud as we could even though we were already exhausted and out of breath. Throughout the training, I definitely felt the strong bond of sisterhood. After going home with our muscles aching, we still felt very contented, having done our best, making more friends and spreading a smile to others.

Station 2:

Area of focus: Arm strength

In this station, Guides are to complete a 20 min circuit consisting of: 

• 10 inclined pull ups (dry weather only)

• 15 burpees

• 10 plank-ups

• One length of crabwalk

• 10 partner dips, where one Guide will 站马 while the other will use her knees to do dips. 

Reflection from a Year 1:

Station 2 proved a difficult station of endurance and attitude as we had already been drained during the previous station, yet we still knew there were two more, and the thought of it made us even more tired. Nevertheless, we still persevered through station 2, which consisted of the crab walk and planks and more, meant to help develop certain muscles of our body. Originally, we were a little disorganised, but after Jing Wen took up the initiative to take the lead, we managed to complete 2 sets of exercises. I was glad that we were in this as a batch together, it was extremely meaningful when we were cheering incessantly, as this helped improve our team morale and also guided us and encouraged us through the whole of twenty minutes. Although we were sweating profusely throughout the whole station, it was satisfactory and contentment that met us at the end.

Station 3:

Area of focus: Core strength

Guides are to complete a 20 min circuit consisting of: 

• 10 plank walk-ups, where Guides start from a standing position and their hands walk down into a full plank position

• 10 cross-crunches

• 1 min partner plank

• 10 leg lifts

Reflection from a Year 1:

Station 3 was the last station the batch went to and by that time I could say most of us were already drained of energy. However, the exercises there were mainly manageable, as we still had the stamina to cheer and motivate the others in completing the physical training. We had no batch mates falling out and this really shows how everyone was persevering and caring for others even when they themselves were having a hard time. Personally, I think that this station was the one I liked best. Also, it was nice to see someone step up to lead the others. Most people don't have the confidence to lead, and having a leader really helped to create a clear sense of direction and keep the batch bonded together.

Published by:

Chen Wei

48th Batch Secretary

Patrol Activity, 20th March

Hey fellow Guides! How have you guys been :-) On Monday, we had Patrol Activity (PA) as usual, with Patrols 2, 3 and 6 having combined PA while Patrols 1, 4 and 5 carried out their individual activities

For the combined PA between Patrols 2, 3 and 6, the juniors had a mini Obstacle Journey (OJ) consisting of 3 stations. The OJ started with an inspection, followed by the briefing of the storyline and the number of stations before the patrols went to the appropriate venues. 

This is the storyline:

As mountain climbing enthusiasts, you all need to train and prepare actively for your next big expedition in June(STC). Today, you will be completing tasks to help build up your endurance, stamina and skills. Treasure this 1 hour of training, and always remember to look out for one another. We wish you all the best, and train hard Mountaineers! 

Here are the details of the various stations and what how the juniors have reflected on their areas for improvement.

Station 1:

Welcome to the Physical Conditioning station, where we aim to build up sufficient stamina and endurance to ensure that scaling up the mountain will prove no challenge to all of you! 

Task: Patrol will split into two teams and there will be 2 starting points for the 2 groups, one start point is in front of class 1E and the other in front of class 1D. Each group is supposed to send one representative to run along the corridor and meet the other representative of the other group. Upon meeting the other representative, they will have to solve the Guides code given to them. The representative that does not manage to solve the Guides code is supposed to go back to their own starting point and carry out the forfeit stated on the Guides code. The other representative continues running and the other group sends out a representative. The game continues till one representative reaches the other groups starting point.

The forfeit written in guides codes are:

• 10 jumping jacks x3
• 45 second planking x2
• 15 squats x2
• Sing one line of Maboleh with the whole group x1
• 5 star jumps x2
• Lunge to the other groups starting point x2

Reflection from a Year 3…

I feel that this station was creative in teaching the Year 1s their tracking signs and letting the rest of us revise our skills. I was initially worried that I would panic and forget my tracking signs completely, but luckily the phrases we needed to decode was not that difficult and could be guessed. A point for the patrol to improve on would be to 照顾 our things more. We could do this by standing around our stuff to make sure they are in our sights. In conclusion, I really liked this station and it was my favourite station in the whole OJ.

Station 2:

Welcome to the Firelighting station, where you will be learning and revising your skills in fire starting and fire signals. During your climb, you will need to be able to produce a fire to heat your food and stay warm. You will also need to be able to signal for help from the alps, in the event your run into trouble, using a signal fire. Start your fires quick, to ensure there is time for a warm drink as a respite from the cold!

Task: Patrols are required to light 3 fires in the correct formation of a signal fire. The fires will be lighted on stoves using 木麻黄 and matchsticks. Patrols are then required to boil water using 2 mess tins over 2 of their fires to make Coffee and Milo drinks. 

Suggested Solution:

Why light a fire:

• a) Cook food
• b) Produce heat (To save calories from being used up in producing body heat)
• c) Scare away dangerous animals (Smoke is used to keep insects and pests at bay)
• d) Used to heat metals (To make tools and weapons, Sharpen sticks, Bake pots)
• e) Purify water
• f) Sterilise surgical instruments
• g) Provide comfort and boost morale
• h) Signal for help

How to light a fire:

• a) Place some sticks on the ground for the foundation
• b) Make a bed of tinder. (Arrange it in a C shape to give greater shielding from the wind and make the fire easier to ignite.)

Reflection from a Year 3…

The purpose of this station was to introduce fires to them immediately set up all logistics required for a signal fire. Since we were given 12 minutes to boil and cook the milo provided, we had hoped to light the fire within 3 minutes so as to enable the water to boil quickly and for us to be able to drink the beverage. In order to make things clearer for the Year 1s, we explained the purpose of a signal fire to them, demonstrated the steps to arranging the 原子炉, how the kindlings should be arranged inside each 原子炉 as well as taught them how to sustain the fire. We then proceeded to show them how to light a fire, before letting them try it themselves. It was heartening to see that they were all trying their best to light the 木麻黄 successfully. They also had a go at sustaining the fire. Initially, it was rather challenging to light and sustain the fires as it was windy. However, we made use of our manpower to shield the wind. We also made sure to look after our logistics to prevent them from getting kupped, and constantly 报时-ed so as to manage our time. However, due to time constraints, we were unable to boil the milo, which showed that we really needed to improve on our time management. Furthermore, our patrol morale was low—we were too fixated on the task and thus neglected cheering, which would definitely have lifted our spirits. Nonetheless, although we did not get to drink the drink, I'm glad that the Y1s learnt something new today and I hope that they will apply this knowledge in future 集合s.

Station 3:

Welcome to the Seek Shelter station. While in the mountains, shelter from the cold and harsh elements are essential to ensuring your survival. However, you’ve only managed to bring along 2 dome tents and some groundsheets. Unfortunately, most of your patrol members need to cover their eyes with a piece of cloth to protect them from the harsh and cold wind. Brave through the elements to ensure you reach the peak!

Task: Patrol will be given 15 minutes to build 2 improvised shelters and 2 dome tents. Everyone in the patrol to be blindfolded and are not supposed to talk except the PL and the PS.

Reflection from a Year 3…

For station 3, we had to build 2 dome tents concurrently with 2 shelters. As the Patrol Leader for the station, I feel that I could have done much better by being more confident and giving clearer instructions especially since my patrol mates were blindfolded and not everyone was sure of how to build the tents, making the process even more difficult. Instead of just focusing my attention on building the tents, I felt that I should have looked at the bigger picture and also put aside time to help others as my patrol mates were not allowed to speak so they could not clarify any doubts. Being more confident could have also ensured better efficiency as I would have been less hesitant. I think that it was also important to keep the patrol morale up through cheering (which we did not do much of) to encourage each other along the way. All in all, although I felt that as a senior I could have done much better to lead the patrol, this station was still a good learning opportunity to help me better myself.

Reflection from a Year 3 of Patrol 1…

During Monday's Patrol Activity(PA), we were first instructed to run around the General Science Lab area to search for post-it notes that our seniors (Y4s) had pasted within seven minutes. After that, we had to solve the codes on them within the remainder of the time, which was approximately 4 to 5 minutes. The codes which were deciphered told us what we had to do during the Patrol Activity. For the Year Ones(Y1) and the Year Twos(Y2), they were supposed to do Inspection. On the other hand, the Year Threes(Y3) were tasked to build a creative gadget that could elevate our belongings. We were given 23 minutes. However, at every three minutes, we were supposed to pick a number from one to five and our structure had to adhere to the instruction. At first we had decided to tie two tripods, however after a criteria was articulated to us, we realised that we had to change our plans. Despite the sudden change in structure, we still managed to tie finish our structure quite quickly, and I felt that the best part of the structure was the clothing line that we had to include. For the clothing line, we used a 长木 to put at the top and tied it downwards to the structure using 白绳. After our own batch activities within the patrol, we were then tasked to teach the juniors how to build a flag and others. Also, at every six minutes, one patrol member from each batch had to go do physical training(PT).  It was a very interesting and fun patrol activity.

Reflection from a Year 3 of Patrol 4…

On Monday, we built a kitchen shelter and table. At first, I was tasked to build the kitchen shelter together with Lin Min and Clara who worked on the table separately. We felt that we didn't give our all as at first—we weren't fast enough and  we didn't have a sense of urgency. On the contrary, the Year Ones (Y1s) looked rather happy as they were able to learn how to build a kitchen shelter. This time, we took the time to guide the them through the building of the kitchen shelter every step of the way. After the activity, the Y1s feed backed that they have learnt not to leave our belongings too far from us, that the knots should be tight, to ensure the ends of the 麻绳 is tucked in nicely and not hanging out, to measure lengths properly, and to ensure that the 木 is be stable and upright before they take pacings. Additionally, I believe that the year ones learnt to have a better sense of urgency and constant cheering and 报时. As for the knots, they also learnt how to tie the 活结. They were also reminded that the first thing to do when building a kitchen shelter is to tie a 八字结 to all four corners of the green sheet and then attach it to the 青木 with a Clove hitch. Overall, I believe this patrol activity was beneficial to every batch as everyone were reminded of basic structures and knots and I personally learnt how to step up more.

Reflection from a Year 3 of Patrol 5…

Monday's PA was split into three main sections. The first part consisted of us building an 8-man tent without arthurs. Every 3 minutes, we would have to answer a question on survival skills, trekking skills or first aid. I feel that this portion of PA was well planned as I, being a Y3, was still slightly unsure about this structure before PA and was able to familiarise myself with it in preparation of PLTC.  The second part consisted of orienteering. The Y2s were quite familiar with these skills as they had recently learnt it in Modular PE and thus they taught the Year 1s the basics of orienteering. After that, we had some practice in order to find a clue on our next activity, which is the third part. The third part consisted of us building a prototype of a chair using gadget poles. Luckily, we had a good idea but what I feel could have been improved was our manpower allocation in order to complete the structure more efficiently. Also, another thing we could have done is to 照顾好东西. Due to our negligence, our 木 was taken away without us noticing by our seniors. We should have taken more care of our belongings and logistics. Overall, I feel that this PA taught and revised many skills. I look forward to more PAs where we able to continue to do so. 

Published by:

Chen Wei

48th Batch Secretary

Skills Training, 10th March

Hi everyone! On 10th March, Friday, we had 集合, and the task was for each patrol to build an element in a playground—patrols are not allowed to have overlapping structure designs. One week before 集合, the Year 4s were to submit proposals on the playground design that they have come up with. Here are some of the reflections from the Year 3s on what happened during 集合, as well as what structure they came up with.

Reflection from a Year 3 from Patrol 1…

On Friday, most of us when to 集合 with trepidation in our hearts. The patrol members in Patrol One(P1) actually knew what we would be building already as we had seen the structure on social media—we were tasked to build a bridge in two hours. Once we broke off, everybody scrambled to get the logistics required to build each of our structures, which would all be combined to form a playground. It was rather hard to do as we had to make several carbon copies, thus lot of time had to be spent on doing so. Eventually, we were able to complete our structure although we had gone overtime. After which, we were allowed to take photos with our structures and rotate to play on the other structures in the playground. I particularly liked the Viking Boat structure as each batch took turns sitting on it while other batches pushed them as the sides. When each batch set on the Viking Boat, we sang some cheerful sings like the opening song for Little Einstein, the alphabet song and the Christmas song. It was a very interesting and fun experience.

Reflection from a Year 3 from Patrol 2…

Our patrol was building a Viking ship as part of the playground that the whole 团 was building together. We were given 2 hours in total to complete our structure. Our structure was rather difficult to build as we had to tie spars near the top of the structure where none of us were able to reach. This meant we had to get tables from the canteen and borrow a ladder which slowed down the process of building because only a few people at a time could stand on the tables and ladder. Though it was very hot and tiring, we had a lot of fun and it was the first time we built such a structure and it worked as well. However, some things that we could improve on would be our sense of urgency. We were mostly taking our own time especially towards the end of the structure which resulted in the need to ask for time extensions multiple times. I feel this is very unacceptable as not only did we take so long to build the structure, we also took a long time to 拆 the structure—both of which could have been prevented if we remembered to 报时 more. However, on the whole I am rather pleased that we finished the structure and it was fun playing on other patrols’ structure as well!

Reflection from a Year 3 from Patrol 3…

For Friday's 集合, we had pioneering as a company, and it was our first pioneering session with the Year 1s around. We had to build a structure that was part of a playground and P3 built a monkey bar. At the beginning, we exceeded the time we were give to take the 木s due to poor communication and poor allocation of manpower so I feel that this aspect can be improved. Furthermore, we had to redo the main frame three times as we did not pay close enough attention to the tiny details like the protrusion of the 木s and the 2nd frame which was a carbon copy of the first was not aligned properly. I’ve learnt that we should take note of such things so that our structure would not look sloppy and messy, and it would also save us a lot of time to focus on the rest of the structure. Besides the set backs along the way, I think our monkey bar turned out nicely and I think that we were all proud of it. Going around to play at other patrols’ structures was also really fun as we got to see what the rest built and all of them were really creative. All in all, this 集合 was extremely enjoyable and I'm glad that despite the problems faced, everyone managed to stay cheerful and keep up a high morale.

Reflection from a Year 3 from Patrol 4…

Friday's 集合 was fun as we got to bond together and play games made by different patrols. My patrol did the 'playhouse' which was supposed to be a slide, but we ended up not being able to build a slide due to the lack of time. However, I feel that it was commendable that both the year 2s and year 1s took the initiative to cheer, which was very encouraging and contributed to the patrol morale. Getting the 木 and putting them back was a team effort amongst the patrols as we helped each other if we were unable to balance the 木 properly. In this way, we were able to bond as a 团 and I believe that everyone benefitted in one way or another in this 集合.

Reflection from a Year 3 from Patrol 5…

During Friday's 集合, we did quite exciting activities! We had to reenact a playground using spars and my patrol was in charge of building a see-saw. To me, it was quite fun and creative. It really reminded me of my first ever Passing Down Parade in 2015, where we basically had to reenact a city or town using sparse as well and my patrol was in charge of building a gateway. Both activities have me the same feeling of satisfaction and amazement when I saw each of the patrol's structures all together to create one beautiful scene or setting! I hope that we will have more 集合s like this one where we can all work together to achieve great results!

Reflection from a Year 3 from Patrol 6…

My patrol had to build a mini obstacle course with spars in 2 hours. Initially, we had trouble trying to get all the 木 required for our structure, as there was a shortage of 木. However, we managed to sort things out with the other patrols and immediately started work. As it was a hot afternoon, everyone was working slowly and we seldom cheered, which resulted in our low patrol morale and this caused us to work even more slowly. To make matters worse, we had started later than the other patrols due to the earlier conflict with the number of 木s. I felt that as a senior, I could have encouraged the juniors to work faster and to 抽 every lash with more force, so that we could reduce the amount of time spent on 重打-ing the loose lashes. I could also have cheered more to empower everyone to work faster, instead of chatting with my patrol mates, which really decreased our level of productivity. However, there were some juniors who tried cheering and it was really heartening to see that they were trying to help the patrol as much as they could. After all the structures were completed, every patrol was given 4 minutes to try out each structure. I felt really pleased with our structure as it seemed relatively stable when we tried it out. However, my patrol's structure 垮-ed halfway when another patrol was trying it out, which was really embarrassing as it showed our lack of competency in our lashes. During 拆掉, everyone was working slowly which resulted in us 过时-ing and our PLs had to plank for us. I strongly feel that we could have tried harder to work faster so that our PLs would not have to get punished for our mistake. Overall, it had been a fun 集合 session and I'm glad that the juniors tried their best.

More photos:

Published by:
Chen Wei
48th Batch Secretary

Patrol Activity, 6th March

Hello fellow guides! This is a late post, but on 6th March, Monday, we had Patrol Activity (PA) as usual with our individual patrols. Here are some reflections from the juniors!

Reflection from a junior from Patrol 1…

On Monday, we brought down kindlings to the General Science Lab(GSL). After which, we were instructed to bring down the logistics required for Outdoor Cooking. At first, our structure was incomplete so we had to rebuild the entire structure in a shorter time period. However, I felt that the lashes for our second structure were actually less tight as compared to the first one. The Year Fours(Y4) then taught the Year Ones(Y1) how to start a fire. However, the kindlings were wet and despite many attempts, we were unable to keep the fire going, so we switched to using 原子蜡 instead. Finally, we were able to roast marshmallows over the fire with the limited time we had left. All in all, I feel that we need to pick our kindlings better and to make an effort to dry them if they are damp, so that we will have an easier time starting the fire.

Reflection from a junior from Patrol 2…

For Monday’s PA, we were tasked to build creative gadgets which included a signal tower and a baggage rack. For the signal tower, we were fortunate to be given a proposal to follow. Thus, it was rather easy to build and the design is cool too since the quadpod lash was tied in the middle of the gadgets poles instead of tying typically near the top of the gadget poles. As for the baggage rack, we had to make some modifications based on certain criterion. Firstly, we had to make use of ponchos and secondly, we were not allowed to build it with an A-架, a quadpod or a tripod. This not only got us thinking of how to build structures out of the norm, but also tapped on our soft skills which we had developed over time in guides. However, the structure that we built was very shaky. From this, we learnt that we should add a lot more diagonals to stabilise the structure, especially since the main frame was not very steady.

Reflection from a junior from Patrol 3…

For PA on Monday, we built an indoor fire altar followed by outdoor cooking. As we had already built a fire altar many times before, we were sure of how to build it and managed to build it within the time limit which I feel was a good improvement from the past PAs, so we were able to have a good start. I feel that we should really keep this up as it helps with efficiency and allows us to have more time to do other things. For outdoor cooking, we made butter chicken, cheese sausages and banana smores. One challenge we faced was that the kindlings picked were wet as it had been raining for the past few days and this led to us spending too long trying to start and sustain the flame, which eventually led to our chicken being uncooked and inedible. As seniors, I feel that we could have been more proactive and reminded the juniors to dry the kindlings. Nonetheless, this was a good learning point as it taught us to not overlook even the minor details as they are equally important and crucial. Finally, when the flame was stable enough to cook the sausages and warm up the bananas, it truly felt like a triumphant moment. Although not everyone got to taste the food, I believe that we did a good job with the cooking (besides the raw chicken). All in all, the PA was enjoyable as we worked well as a patrol together to get the job done although there were certain unexpected bumps along the way.

Reflection from a junior from Patrol 4…

Monday's PA ended a little late because of the rain. During PA, we went through some basic structures like the baggage rack before we started the fire and prepared the food for Outdoor Cooking. Since I was not involved in most of the process as I could not go near fire, I washed the cutlery and prepared the food instead. This time, since the proposal and food were done and bought by the Year 3s, this gave us a taste of what it was like doing a proposal and putting it into action.

Reflection from a junior from Patrol 5…

On Monday, we did several activities. Firstly, we built a baggage rack with a meaningful improvement of rafting half bamboo so that items could be placed there. To me, this was symbolic as it was the first time we had the Year Ones do creative gadgeting with us so it was quite cool! After that, we had to run around Block G to find post-it notes with the guides code written on them. Then, we would have to decipher the code (which had items required for inspection written on them), after which we would be able to send one person to 团部 to take 5 items. After we had collected the items, we did inspection. During the first round, the Year Ones and Twos were blindfolded and the Year Threes were not able to actually layout the items but had to direct the Year Ones and Twos to do so for them. To me, it was quite challenging as we did not really know how to go about handling this or how to direct them. From this, I felt that we could have had better strategy in terms of how to go about leading the inspection. Lastly, we had to do certain activities based on a scenario where we were stranded, dehydrated and some of us were injured. So, we had to build two dome tents, treat three people and make Milo. I feel that this part of PA was considerably well done as were able to complete the tasks on time.

Reflection from a junior from Patrol 6…

For the first part of PA, we had to build a baggage rack in 40 minutes, according to the proposal drawn and with the 木 we had collected. As the PS of this activity, I felt that I could have done a better job to step up and help the PL in leading the patrol, instead of communicating with the PL through whispers. It was rather chaotic initially, as we had forgotten some crucial points, such as 对-ing the 脚 of the main frame to the curb, and ensuring that both main frames were exact copies of each other. It was also due to our poor time management and poor manpower allocation that our structure did not turn out stable. We had spent too much time completing the main frames. As we were too focused on completing the task, we also did not manage to maintain a high patrol morale, which may have resulted in us working slowly. Next, we had to build a volleyball net in 10 minutes, according to a proposal, for our volleyball activity. I was assigned as PL for this activity. I felt that I could have done a better job in giving out firm instructions to every individual so as to prevent people from slacking off. I could have also spoken up more, instead of letting the PS lead the patrol entirely. Furthermore, the structure did not turn out stable as the A-架s were not spread wide enough. As we were in a hurry, I had neglected the netting of the structure thus resulting in the netting being done wrongly. Despite all this, one notable point is that the juniors tried their best to cheer loudly and 报时 constantly, which made me feel really grateful. However, regretfully due to time constraints, we were unable to play volleyball. Lastly, we had to build a dome tent. However, the twist was that everyone, except the PL and  PS, had to be blindfolded. After a few minutes, it was clear that the PL and PS were struggling, so the Y1s were allowed to take their blindfolds off. I felt that since I was blindfolded and had nothing to do, I could have taken the initiative to cheer for the patrol, since the PL and PS were preoccupied with guiding the others. This would have boosted the patrol morale and we could have completed the dome tent at a faster speed. All in all, it was a fruitful PA session and I'm glad to have picked up some tips from this experience.

Published by:

Chen Wei

48th Batch Secretary