The Official Newsletter of LINC Home Study · 2010-01-12 · In 2 months, I got hired full time in my career with one of the greatest teams I ever had. My husband had a few challenges

Jan 2010

NEWSLINC

The LINC Home Study program is funded by:

The Official Newsletter of LINC Home Study

January 2010 | LINC Home Study NEWSLINC 2


LINC Home Study

LINC Home Study is an English language program for newcomers to Canada who wish to improve their

listening, speaking, reading and writing skills. This program provides students with the opportunity to

learn English in the comfort of their homes and is open to landed immigrants and convention refugees 18

years or older.

Classes are taught by certified TESL instructors, who contact students every week to review homework,

practice speaking and answer questions. Students have a choice of using their computer to study English

or having a traditional textbook. All the study materials are based on the Canadian Language Benchmarks

standards.

Is there a fee for this program? No. The program is funded by Citizenship and Immigration Canada, and as

such, all study materials are provided free of charge to participants. LINC Home Study students are

encouraged to study independently for between 5 to 10 hours a week, and to finish homework on a regular

basis. To be successful students have to study hard, and commit their time to improving their English

skills. The teacher is there to guide students along on their path to significant language improvement.

The LINC Home Study program offers many other study options, including drop-in conversation classes,

additional phone conversation classes, a program for seniors (LINCing Seniors), one for youth (LINCing

Youth), instruction for deaf and blind clients and a business writing course.

We encourage all LINC Home Study students to take advantage of the options available to them, to

participate in the online LINC Home Study forum, to contribute to our monthly newsletters, and to their

journey in learning English.


Index

EDITOR’S NOTE

Welcome to the January issue of

the LINC Home Study

newsletter.

Our feature article is a look at

the interesting phenomenon of

Aurora Borealis.

As usual, we have some great

submissions from students in

the program, as well as a couple

of fantastic festive recipes to

tickle your taste buds.

We would like to say thank you

to all those who submitted

articles in December. Please

continue to send us your

articles, feedback and comments

every month.

Enjoy!

Staff Reflection

Student Reflections

A Day in the Life of… by Edith L….……..................................…….......pg8

Immigrating Today by Aziza A.N……………….…...……………………....pg9

Interesting things in Canada by Jia C. .……………….…………...……….pg10

Unforgettable Christmas by Sandra S.………………………….……........pg11

Hajji Ferooze and Santa Claus by Flora T…………………………….…….pg12

Far Away from Home by Sonia C…………..…………………………….….pg13

I‘m Finally Getting It by Karym A……………………………………..….....pg14

What is SAD? By Anna L…………………..… …….…………………………pg15

Winter in Canada by Doha A…………………………………………….……pg16

Book Review by Maryam G…….……………………………………………..pg17

How to Become a Pharmacist in Canada by Lara S………………………pg18

Humans and the Environment by Juan R.L..………………………………pg19

Festival Food by Xia T.W……………………………………………………...pg20

Working with Cancer Patients by Rocio A.I………………………………..pg21

Feature Article

Auroras…………………..………..…………………………..……….……...….pg7


Recipes

Sheer Kurma by Mahreen……………………………………………………pg22

Date Juice by Ahmed H.……………………………………………………..pg23

Bunuelo by Yaneth S……...………………………………………………….pg24

Chicken Cheese Casserole by Cirle Jean F………………………………..pg25

Activity Central

Puzzle Verse…….………………………………………………………………pg26

Word Search……….………………...…………………………………………pg27


Hope the Ne w Ye ar

brin gs th e ve ry be st

o f e ve ryth ing

you r w ay.

From Th e LINC Hom e Stu dy Te am


Feature Article

AURORAS

Auroras, sometimes called the northern

and southern (polar) lights or aurorae

(singular: aurora), are natural light

displays in the sky, usually observed at

night, particularly in the Polar Regions.

Auroras seen near the magnetic pole may

be high overhead, but from further away,

they illuminate the northern horizon as a

greenish glow or sometimes a faint red,

as if the sun were rising from an unusual

direction. Its southern counterpart, the

aurora australis or the southern polar

lights, has similar properties, but is only

visible from high southern latitudes in

Antarctica, South America, or Australasia.

Australis is the Latin word for "of the

South.‖ Auroras can be spotted

throughout the world and on other

planets. It is most visible closer to the

poles due to the longer periods of

darkness and the magnetic field

In Norwegian folklore, the lights were

the spirits of old maids dancing in the

sky and waving — in Scotland, which

had an influx of Viking settlers, the lights

are sometimes called "the merry

dancers." Several of the Eskimo tribes

also connected the lights with dancing.

Eskimos in Eastern Greenland attributed

the northern lights to the spirits of

children who died at birth; their dancing

caused the dancing lights. The Salteaus

Indians of eastern Canada and the

Kwakiutl and Tlingit of Southeastern

Alaska also believed the lights to be

human spirits, whereas an Eskimo tribe

living on the lower Yukon River believed

the dancers to be the spirits of animals.

Young Labrador Eskimos, who believed

that the northern lights were torches lit

by the dead who were in playing soccer

in the heavens with a walrus skull, in

turn, would dance to the aurora.

Beliefs that the auroras were portents of

war and sickness also can be read in the

Greeks; one can only imagine how

frightening these mysterious lights must

have been in places where the lights were

a rare phenomenon. In the Americas, the

Fox Indians of Wisconsin also believed the

lights to be an ill omen—they believed the

lights to be the ghosts of slain enemies

waiting to take revenge.

Perhaps the loveliest of the beliefs comes

from the Algonquin Indians. They believed

that Nanahbozho the Creator, after he

finished creating the earth, travelled to the

far north, where he still builds great fires

which reflect southward, to remind those

he created of his lasting love.

Adapted from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aurora_(astronomy)

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sky

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Night_sky

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Geographical_pole

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Antarctica

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/South_America

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Australasia

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Latin

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aurora_(astronomy)#On_other_planets

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aurora_(astronomy)#On_other_planets


Staff Reflections

by Edith L. A DAY IN THE LIFE OF…

Edith L. is an Administrative Assistant

with the LINC Home Study program.

It was yet another harsh winter. The winter cold can be felt

and seen through the snow covered scenery, empty trees,

rosy cheeks and tousled hair. While Joyce was busy closing

up the store and finishing last minute details, her children

were busy playing hide-and-seek in the deserted mall. The

laughing and playing of the brother-sister combo was not an

unusual sight for the mall‘s vendors and security officers.

While Joyce spent long days at the store, the siblings were

dropped off at the mall every day after school, like

clockwork. Even though Joyce only started the job a few

weeks back, those who worked in the mall knew the family

well, and would often keep an eye out for the children, just

as they would their own.

Of course, it was not Joyce‘s first cho ice to have her children

spending their after school hours in the mall and the

adjacent library, but being new to a country with limited

support, it was all she could do to keep her children close by

her side.

― Time to go kids! ‖ Joyce hollered, with the mountain of

winter gears in her arms.

The daughter peeked her head out from behind a specialty

hermit crab kiosk, as the boy turned around and ran towards

his mother. Seeing that the game was over, and the seeker

has retreated, the girl hopped on her feet and followed her

brother. Sweaters, mittens, hats… jackets, snow pants and

backpacks. One by one, the layers were placed on the kids

until they resembled the Michelin mascot. Coming from a

country where snow only existed in storybooks, Joyce

intended to take all precautions for her children against the

winter cold.

The bus ride home was, on most days, peaceful. The

children would be exhausted from a long day of school and

play, and Joyce, of work. When their stop would soon

approach, the children would always peer out the frosty

windows to make sure the timing is just right for them to tug

on the bell cord. Racing to the door, the children waited on

the top step, but the door didn‘t open. They waved their

hands around, hoping a motion detector would sense them

and open the door, but nothing happened.

― Step down!‖ The bus driver hollered, while gesturing

downward motion with his hand.

Step down, was what he said, but ― Sit down‖ was what the

family heard from the back of the bus. And so they did

obediently. After the driver repeated the instructions a

couple more times, a young man got up, walked towards the

door with his very own background music (booming from

his headphones) and came to the family‘s rescue. Needless

to say, Joyce, somewhat embarrassed, scurried off the bus

with her children while thanking the young man and

muttering apologies to the driver and patrons. A short walk

home from the bus stop, two cups of hot cocoa, and the

three slipped into their pajamas and went to sleep.

It‘s funny the things you remember.


IMMIGRATING TODAY!

By Aziza A.N.

This year, I made something H U G E …, I made a decision. Not like

any other decision in my life. It is true. I decided to come to

Canada. I just arrived in Canada last March with bags full of

expectations, hopes and some worries about the future in a new

country. I will always remember the smile on the face of the officer

at Pearson Airport when we first arrived saying , ― Immigrating

today‖ . The first time I have ever heard those words in this way.

First, we did not know anyone in Canada. We left back home

family, friends, people we love, prosperous careers and a settled

life. It was only me and my husband. We have taken the decision

to look forward to the future and I remember the words we said to

each other (we are going to make it work… we can do it)

I believe the most courageous thing is to start a new life in a new

country and not everyone can do this.

We took advantage of all programs available for newcomers,

Newcomers centres, employment resource centres, co-ops and

workshops available everywhere. At the beginning, we felt

overwhelmed with the information and programs. I remember

sitting in the first apartment we rented for our first month trying to

arrange and organize two bags full of booklets, papers and

schedule of workshops. The only thing I learned from this

experience, is one word: Planning.

If you have a plan, even not a complete one, just know what you

need to do, decide on it and take actions. It will come to you. Since

I came to Canada, we did not take any day off. From day one we

started to visit Newcomer centre, employment resource centre and

rewrote our resumes. Got to know the new system, finalized

papers… The weather was cold... not what we are used to; but

warm with excitement and eagerness to achieve.

We have participated in Co-op programs from 8:00 am to 3:00 pm

and volunteered at the same time to get Canadian experience.

The best feelings we had was when we talked to someone on

phone and they became aware that we are new to Canada. They

were always very nice and congratulated us… this attitude really

delighted us and we responded with heart-felt gratitude.

In 2 months, I got hired full time in my career with one of the

greatest teams I ever had. My husband had a few challenges at the

beginning, but he decided to shift career and got a job he loves.

Both of us continue studying, exploring, improving and enjoying

our knowledge of Canada as we meet new people and new

cultures. This is the best about Canada; you come with one culture

and get to meet the world at your doors

If I decide to put down my resolution for 2010, it‘s to do something

new I have never done in my life … and in Canada.

Aziza A. N. is the Content & Media Designer for the

LINC Home Study program.


Student Reflections

by Jia C.

As a Chinese proverb says ― Time flies,‖ I have been in Canada for

four years. My friends like to ask me some questions about

Canada. At that time, many pictures flash in my mind, I can‘t

choose the best one to tell.

Here, I want to share some acquisitions of Canada in my life with

everyone. When I first walked in Toronto, I deeply breathed the air

and pleasantly was surprised with how fresh the air was. Some

squirrels were jumping and running around the pine tree beside

the streets. This was my first impression of Toronto. I believe that

many immigrants have the same experience as me. On that first

night, when I watched the moon, it seemed bigger. It indicated that

location had changed, and it also reminded me I was far away from

my hometown.

After settling down, the next plan was certainly to explore which

was the best way to know any new country. We always visited

museums, churches and shops. Obviously visiting Bethune

Memorial House is the first choice for Chinese people. Because Dr

Bethune was an international soldier and dedicated his life for

China. Most Chinese knew about Dr Bethune because he was very

persuasive in China. His story was published and had become the

text in China‘s elementary schools when I was young. His picture

appears on Chinese posters, books, and postage stamps.

Last month. I watched an interesting thing which is a ‗salmon run‘.

I saw the salmon trying their best to swim back to their birth place,

and they never gave up even though they met many setbacks.

Another great view is Niagara Falls which is the most famous in the

world.

I like to join celebrations of festivals. My first time of celebration

holiday in Canada was Halloween. During holiday celebrations

these decorations are special, such as spider web, ghosts,

pumpkins and candy. Children wear costumes and go to the most

terrifying haunted houses to trick or treat. This traditional festival is

the most interesting I have seen. At present, I enjoy my daily life in

Canada.

Toronto Region – Jia C. is a Level 4 student. Her teacher is Sukhi S.

INTERESTING THINGS IN CANADA


UNFORGETTABLE CHRISTMAS by Sandra S.

Comics

Christmas time is full of happiness, hope and peace. When I was young I would

share a cute Mexican tradition with my brothers and my sisters. I would like to

explain it: When Jesus was born there were three kings who were following a

huge star in the sky. The star indicated the stable where Maria, Jose, Jesus

and others were. Each of them brought a gift for Jesus.

When I was young I never got gifts from Santa. All my gifts came from the

Three Kings; in Spanish they are called Reyes Magos. That special event

happened every January 06. I put my tiny shoe out at night on January 05.

I couldn‘t sleep properly; I was anxious thinking and wondering about my new

gift. On January 06, I got a nice present every year. It was a Barbie or money.

It didn‘t matter what it was; everything make me happy. And every year I found

my shoe somewhere else. It was the funny part. One day I asked my mom.

How can they get into the house? Do they have a key? My mom looked at me

and she said to me: ― They came from the window that is in the laundry room.

They become small, smaller and they can get through from the little squares

from the screen.‖ I couldn‘t believe what my ears w here hearing, because I

didn‘t think that humans can get that small, but when I was young I believed in

powers, magic, and tales. And I decided that my mom was right; that

everything was possible.

When I was fourteen years old I found out myself how to bring the gifts home

and put them away during the night, but I never said anything to my brothers

and sisters. In my heart and my mind the three kings were there every

January.

In those days I still got presents, but they came from the Polo North. They were

unforgettable memories because I still remember the shiny blond hair from the

Barbie‘s, the money inside my shoes that I didn‘t want to spend, because I

thought it was made in a special bank and the happiness on my brothers and

sisters faces. I can keep those moments with me forever, but I can‘t go back in

the past. The only thing that I can say to everyone is to enjoy every minute of

your life; enjoy every Christmas, because life is one.

Kitchener Region – Sandra S. is a Level 4 student. Her teacher is Sukhi S.

THIS YEAR, I RESOLVE TO

STAY OUT OF TROUBLE…

WHICH WILL REQUIRE

EFFORT, DETERMINATION…

AND BEING

MUCH SNEAKIER


Student Reflections

by Flora T.

People all over the world celebrate their new years in different

ways based on their cultures, customs and religions.

We celebrate our new year in Iran, too. People are very excited

when "Norooze" is coming. They try to clean everything and

buy new clothes and gifts for each other. For Iranian people, it's

very important to visit each other in their homes to say Happy

New Year and treat themselves with special foods.

There is a character named "Hajji Ferooze" in our culture who,

when the new year arrives, comes to the streets with a red

dress, black face and a tambourine to dance and remind people

to get ready for the new year. I think the "Hajji Ferooze"

character is very similar to the Santa Claus character who, in his

white beard, red suit, cap, and with a bag full of gifts for kids at

Christmas time, comes to say "Ho,Ho,Ho, Merry Christmas". I

tried to get more information about the history of "Hajji

Ferooze" to maybe find more similarities between him and

Santa, but I couldn't find anything.

Santa Claus' history goes back a long time and there are many

popular stories about Santa. Santa Claus is known as Saint

Nicholas, Saint Nick, Father Christmas, and many other names.

The basic influence for Christian peoples' Santa Claus is Bishop

Nicholas who lived in the 4th century A.D. He was very rich and

generous and he often gave joy to poor children by throwing

gifts in through their windows. In the North American tradition

(in the United States and Canada), Santa lives in the North Pole

and prepares gifts through the year to bring them to good

children's homes on Christmas night by sliding down fireplace

chimneys.

Although some people believe Santa Claus is just an elaborate

lie for parents to teach their children ethics and good

behaviour, and some others consider Santa Claus as a symbol

of the commercialization of the Christmas holiday, I think it

doesn't matter because it causes children to go to their beds on

Christmas night hopeful to get a surprise Christmas gift from

Santa Claus.

York Region – Flora T. is a Level 7 student. Her teacher is

Lesley H.

HAJJI FEROOZE AND SANTA CLAUS


FAR AWAY FROM HOME by Sonia C.

All my life I have followed my passions, my dreams and goals or whatever I think

is right for me. Learning another language has always been one of my passions,

and coming to Canada was one of my goals that I have achieved. Obviously, like

every newcomer, I had all the excitement and a mixture of feelings as I was not

sure how I felt as I stepped into Canada for the first time.

I will not forget the time when my airplane landed with a delay of about an hour

at Toronto International Airport. As I was ready to step out of the plane, I was

holding back my tears and those kinds of feelings that I could not explain

because I felt my heart was divided into two worlds: my dreams and all I left

behind –my best friends and my whole life back in Peru. As you can image

saying goodbye is one of the hardest parts of this experience.

On the other hand, I was excited to meet my host Canadian host family and the

children that I was going to look after .Once, I met all of them I felt out of this

world –strange and completely different from them even physically. After a long

drive from the airport in Toronto to Omeeme, we got home around 1 PM that

night. I was surprised to find out how different my life would be here, without

any access to civilization, metaphorically speaking of course! The town where I

live is a small town in the countryside where it is very tough to live without a car.

Naturally, the toughest part that someone experiences is the adjustment in the

first few months, because living with a family that is not yours, and in a house

where you feel that everything around you is not yours, is not easy. It would be

hard to explain through this article all the feelings I have. Most of the time, I feel

like a stranger and I feel miserable. Moreover, I had never experienced such

loneliness in my entire life. So I have noticed that life has no meaning without

friends. That love and kindness are in little things like: walking through the

nature, an unexpected call or letter from a fr iend or just a hand from people that

you don‘t even know; that loneliness may kill us, but it may also make us think

more about life and love people around us more especially when they are

millions of miles away from us.

As time goes fast, I keep all my memories from back home as a treasure in my

mind and heart. Also I remember my mother‘s words before I left my country.

She said to me ― Wherever you are, wherever you may go in afflictions or

sorrows, no matter what, God is always there for you on your right side to

support, sustain and cheer you when you feel down.‖

As a result, I have been learning positive things from this experience and I know

how tough it can be, but I am still learning to see the positive side of life which

for me is a gift and everyday is a new beginning. I left my whole life back in Peru

to start a new one, but I am growing as a person, as human being, and most

importantly, I am following my passions and dreams.

Peterborough Region – Sonia C. is a Level 4 student. Her teacher is Atika N.


Student Reflections

by Karym A.

My mother decided to enrol my sister and me into an English class when we were 9 years old. I have to say that my sister

was pretty good at it, but I can‘t say the same about how I was doing. After a year, my sister was in level 9 while I was

struggling with level 4. Of course, I finally quit and focused my attention on sports. I participated in a student exchange and

lived in The United States for 2 months. I was 14 years old. When I returned, I realized the importance of learning other

languages (for two months I used sign language to communicate with everyone!). I took an English test to find out the level I

was going to start at (I thought I had made some improvements on my trip! ). Well they decided I was ready for level 1! (I was

so disappointed but not more than my mom!). I studied for almost a year and was doing well, but this time, the reason I quit

was to prepare myself for university.

Depending on my schedule, I was on and off my English classes, during University. I think that at that time, my attitude was

different than before. I was determined to learn it and to do it well. Usually my motivation was based on comparing my

performance with somebody else‘s' but now it was me vs. me. Now that I live in Canada, I know that I want to speak, read and

write it properly as a Canadian. Now it‘s not enough to make myself understand (or be understood). I want to accomplish

more that I have until now.

I‘m going to share one of the days that make me feel great about doing my best. I remember that I asked Lara Lyn, m y

teacher, about how to use the idiom ― all the rage" because I didn‘t get it during the lesson. Well, a few weeks later I was with

my son in the elevator with 2 other ladies and they asked my son about the toys he had. He answered ― Bakugan" and they

didn‘t understand and one of them said ― Oh, Pokémon!" After my child said a lousy ― Noooo", I replied, ― Same thing, different

name." After some laughs, the other lady said ― I‘m sure they charge you more for the new ones"; that is when I thought about

the idiom and said ― It‘s all the rage at the school". When I heard a ― So he has to have it, right?" I knew I did it! I was so

happy I used it and even more that they understood! On one hand, sometimes I don‘t say something because I‘m so afraid of

the embarrassment that it would be if no one understood. But on the other hand, I think if I don‘t try how I‘m going to learn?

My point is that even when I feel learning English is not one of my strongest attributes (actually I think I‘m a slow

learner! ), that is not going to stop me from trying. I‘m pretty sure sooner or later (I guess more later than sooner) I will

succeed if I don‘t give up.

Toronto Region – Karym A. is a Level 6 student. Her teacher is Lara Lyn Y.

I’M FINALLY GETTING IT


WHAT IS SAD? by Anna L.

Recently when I was watching TV, I heard about Seasonal Affective Disorder. But what does this mean? I asked my friend and

we guessed it‘s something about bad feeling, but what exactly?

SAD – Seasonal Affective Disorder – I had never heard about it before, but I know that many people sometimes feel depressed,

especially immigrants. Some people complain about it. Some people think it is a temporary feeling because of a new country,

new language, and new climate. Many people don't realize there's anything wrong. They may dismiss their symptoms as the

winter blahs, but the symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder are serious. They can worsen and lead to problems if they‘re not

treated. People with SAD have school or work problems, and they think nobody can help them. Even more, they became

isolated because other people try to avoid the person who has a bad mood.

The symptoms of SAD may include:

In the middle of the winter, people have high-level symptoms. In the spring the symptoms disappear. What causes SAD? The

main theory is our biological rhythm. Many years ago we didn‘t have electricity and our day -to-day rhythm was always the

same. We woke up with the sun and we went to bed when the sun went down. Now, we have electricity and it‘s changed our

lives. We need to be active mostly, but our biological clock is telling our bodies to sleep more.

It‘s very interesting why only some people suffer from SAD, not everybody. Who is at risk? Research in Ontario suggests that

between 2% and 3% of the general population may have SAD. Young people, women, and people who work in places where

there is not a lot of sunlight get SAD. SAD is treatable. Try to use more natural light. If you feel a lot of symptoms or have

suicidal thoughts you should see your doctor. Other things you can do to reduce your risk of developing SAD include:

* Trim tree branches that block some of the light from getting into your home

* Keep your curtains opened during the day

* Exercise outdoors

* If you exercise indoors, do it near a window

* Watch your diet

Many people with SAD use bright, artificial light. "Light therapy" involves sitting beside a special fluorescent light box for

several minutes a day. We should ask a doctor about light therapy. But be careful about using a tanning salon because there is

a risk of skin cancer. Also, a tanning bed only has ultraviolet rays, not natural light. I think you now have very necessary and

useful information. You know the symptoms and causes of Seasonal Affective Disorder, so you can prevent this or give advice

to your friends.

Toronto Region – Anna L. is a Level 5 student. Her teacher is Laura W.

-change in appetite, in particular a craving for sweet or starchy foods -feelings of anxiety

-decreased energy -tendency to oversleep-irritability

-fatigue -avoidance of social situations


Student Reflections

WINTER IN CANADA by Doha A.

There are f ou r seaso ns i n Canada: sp r i ng ,

sum m er , f al l , and w in ter . W in ter i s a very l ong

seaso n , i t l ast s m o re t han fou r m on ths, and i t ‘ s

very co ld . A l t hough th e t em peratu res can d rop

dow n to zero and belo w zero , peop le and an im al s

can st i l l su rv i ve i n such severe w eather . Peop le

do m any act i v i t i es t o keep them busy du r i ng t he

co ld w in ter t im e. Som e o f t hem l i ke

sno w board in g , o r i ce skat i ng . Ch i l d ren have

sno w bal l f i gh t s, and they m ake sno w m en and

sno w ang les. Paren ts u sual l y m ake ho t cho co late

f o r t hei r ki ds and fo r t hem sel ves. Peop le w ear

w arm cl o t h i ng t o keep t hem sel ves w arm , l i ke

dow n j acket s, ski m asks, m i t t ens o r g l oves, ski

hat , and earm u f f s.

An im al s and p l an t s adap t t hem sel ves t o su rv i ve

du r i ng t he w in ter t im e. M any t rees l ose t hei r

l eaves each fal l , bu t t here are som e everg reen

t rees w h i ch stay g reen al l w in ter . Som e an im al s

can sl eep du r i ng t he co l dest t im e. Th i s i s cal l ed

h i bernat i on . Som e o f t hese an im al s sto re f ood i n

t he sp r i ng and the f al l , and they keep i t f o r t he

w in ter . There are som e b i rd s and an im al s w ho

can ‘ t su rv i ve du r i ng t he w in ter t im e, t hey m ig rat e

t o w arm er p l aces.

In m y coun t r y , M o ro cco , t here are f ou r season s,

bu t w in ter i n M o ro cco l ast s t h ree m on th s. The

sun sh ines alm o st al l year around , and the

w eather i s w ar m . The tem peratu re i s bet w een 1

and the 20‘ s, and i t depends on t he l o cat i on , f o r

exam p le no r ther n par t s o f M o ro cco are d i f f eren t

t han sou thern M o ro cco . It sno w s i n som e ci t i es i n

M orocco , sim i l ar t o Can ada. Peop le i n t hese

ci t i es have sam e w in ter act i v i t i es, l i ke skat i ng ,

ski i ng , and sl edd ing .

Kitchener Region – Doha A. is a Level 3 student. Her

teacher is Esther B.


BOOK REVIEW – A THOUSAND SPLENDID SUNS by Maryam G.

A Thousand Splendid Suns is a novel by Khaled Hosseini written in

2007. It's an impressive novel about two Afghan women who shared

one husband, named Rashid.

One woman is an orphan girl named Mariam who becomes Rashid's

wife by the force of her father's wives. Rashid is a shoemaker and

had a strong desire to have a child because he had lost his son and

wife. Mariam wasn't able to have any children and bad-tempered

Rashid started to abuse her.

During the war with The Soviet Union, many families moved to

Pakistan and other countries. A young girl named Leila and her

family decided to escape to Pakistan, but a bomb hit their house and

killed her parents. Leila got injured and their neighbour Rashid found

her. Rashid and Mariam took care of her, but Rashid made an evil

plan. He sent someone to tell Leila that her beloved, Tariq, who had

gone to Pakistan one year before, was killed there. Then he asked

lonely and disappointed Leila to marry him although she was almost

two generations younger than him.

This novel was written after The Kite Runner, one of the best sellers

in 2006. Both of Hosseini's novels are about the war and the Taliban.

The setting is mostly in Kabul. The title of the book refers to a 17th

century poem by the Persian poet Saib-e-Tabrizi called "Kabul",

which was translated into English by Josephine Davis.

Every street of Kabul is enthralling to the eye

Through the bazaar, caravans of Egypt pass

One could not count the moons that shimmer on her roofs

And thousand splendid suns that hide behind their walls

A Thousand Splendid Suns is a heartbreaking story about women in

Afghanistan. It is fiction but based on reality. It's a novel of politics,

religion, romance, tragedy, revenge, patience, love, hate, anger and

abuse. Hosseni's prose is very fluent and he did great with his two

novels. I hope we have a nicer world with more peace like the end of

his stories.

Niagara Region – Maryam G. is a Level 6 student. Her teacher is

Lesley H.


Student Reflections

by Lara S.

Pharmacists are medical professionals specializing in medication. They are responsible for understanding drugs and

planning drugs therapy programs for patients. That is why I decided to study pharmacy, which is a helping career.

I studied pharmacy in Jordan for 9 years. I started training in the fourth year. It takes 5 years to obtain a BCS Degree in

pharmacy in Jordan. The first year in university, I took life science, health and mathematics. The next four years were

pharmaceutical education, pharmacology, therapeutics, etc., all courses a pharmacist needs. To finish training in Jordan, I

had to complete 1650 hours of practice. After graduation, I was licensed and I worked as pharmacist for 2 years.

Now that I am in Canada, I need to get my pharmacist license to be able to work as a pharmacist in Canada. In order to

practice pharmacy in Canada, I need first of all to have my degree from Jordan evaluated by the Pharmacy Examining

Board of Canada (PEBC). Then, I have to pass two exams called the Evaluating Exam and the Qualifying Exam. After

passing these two exams, I will be given a certificate called‖ The Certificate of Qualification‖ by PEBC. Next, I have to obtain

English scores in TOFEL or IELTS and then I have to finish sufficient hours of training in a pharmacy. Usually there are 2

stages of training, studentship and internship. Finally, I have to pass the Law exam (Jurisprudence Exam) and get the

pharmacist license.

Completing this procedure is not enough to be good pharmacist. There are some characteristics that help to be good

pharmacist such as: understanding people‘s needs, being energetic, having high levels of communication skills, being

accurate and having high ethical standards.

Peel Region – Lara S. is a Level 6 student. Her teacher is Susan M.

HOW TO BECOME A PHARMACIST IN CANADA


HUMANS AND THE ENVIRONMENT by Juan R.L.

There is good human activity and there is bad. No doubt

the Earth is being damaged by greedy, uncontrolled and

irresponsible human activity. I believe that the Earth is

the ideal habitation place for human beings, but not only

for them, since we share the Earth and all its resources

with the rest of the living creatures, plants and animals.

All of these actually make up the Earth's ecosystems.

There are a lot of them, and they coexist in harmony to

make life on the Earth possible for everybody.

That is why we must respect nature and coexist

intelligently not only with the environment, but equally

important, with the rest of humanity; a real challenge,

since these goals are closely related and depend on each

other.

One example of bad human activity is the exploitation of

the Amazon rainforest. It has been said that every second

a rainforest area equivalent to a soccer field is destroyed,

and with it new species of plants and animals, still

unknown to man, are gone forever. It is widely known in

the scientific community that this is a prime source of

new medications or products which could bring amazing

breakthroughs and new hope to some of the as yet

unsolved man-made problems.

Another bad example is the overfishing in the Earth's

oceans. I read once about the Newfoundland‘s Cod

fishery in Canada, where the whole economy spun

around the Cod‘s fishing. Then, as the industrial

exploitation of it became ruthlessly aggressive, this fish

almost disappeared. So, the government was forced to

close the fishery which in turn put 40,000 people out of

work in 5 Canadian provinces. Even a few years ago the

Atlantic Cod was added to Canada‘s list of endangered

species. This story is in process to be replicated every

day on the Earth's oceans.

In the same line of thought, a lot of strain is put on the

Earth‘s ecosystems because of the uncontrolled growth

of human population as in poor countries, and the

pollution that comes with the irresponsible industrial

activity.

As a matter of fact, true cooperation is needed to cope

with these real world issues. This would be the good

human activity, that is to say, international cooperation.

Sadly, sometimes it is just a dream. In fact, the good

human activity for the Earth as well as for mankind in

general, starts deep inside in the heart of every individual

who compose human society, especially its rulers.

In the end, the human activity which is good for the Earth

comes down to high moral values and following

directions provided from the Creator of all things.

Niagara Region – Juan R.L. is a Level 7 student. His teacher is

Fiona E.


Chinese people may think the festival is not coming if they don‘t do celebrations which have been passed from generation

to generation. Traditional Chinese festivals compose an important and brilliant part of Chinese culture. Food always plays an

important role. There are many foods in Chinese culture associated with each Chinese festival, although preferences vary

from region to region.

For Chinese, the most important festival is Chinese New Year, also known as the Lunar New Year or the Spring Festival. It

consists of a period of celebrations, starting on New Year's Day which is the first day of the first month of the Chinese

calendar, ending with the Lantern Festival, the fifteenth day of the month. The next Chinese New Year Day falls on February

14, 2010. A reunion dinner is held on New Year's Eve where members of the family get together for celebration.

In north China, Jiaozi Dumplings are the main parts of the New Year's Eve dinner, which are stuffed with meat and/or

vegetables.

In south China, The New Year's Eve dinner always includes sticky cake which has the symbolism of raising oneself higher in

each coming year. Sometimes Fish is included, but not eaten up completely, as Chinese believe that people have profit

every year if there is fish leftover.

At the end of the Chinese New Year, the 15th day of the New Year is called the Lantern Festival, which is celebrated at night

with lantern displays and children carrying lanterns in a parade. The traditional food for the Lantern Festival is Yuanxiao

dumplings which are made with sticky rice flour, filled with sugar, walnuts and sesame. Its roundness symbolizes wholeness

and togetherness. The Chinese word 'yuan' is identical in sound to peace and prosperity for the whole family.

Most of the traditional Chinese food made during Chinese New Year is to ensure good luck in the coming year, although

young generations don't believe it. Food is always a good carrier to pass the traditional culture.

Toronto Region – Xia T.W. is a Level 6 student. Her teacher is Marilyn K.

Student Reflections

by Xia T.W.

FESTIVAL FOOD


In my native country, Bolivia, I worked many years for pharmaceutical companies. At the last company I worked for, I was the

Coordinator of Oncology, visiting doctors in different cities, visiting hospitals, medical offices and institutions related t o

cancer, talking about the company‘s products.

I saw many people suffer with different kinds of cancer; the most difficult part for me was to see children without hope,

because they had only just started to live.

At night and on weekends I saw patients privately as a psychologist, which was my field. For most of them their concern was

how they were going to find the money to pay for the treatment at whatever stage they were in the cancer treatment process

i.e.: chemotherapy (treatment of cancer, anticancer drugs) radiotherapy (treatment of disease with radiation, x -ray or other

ionizing) or surgery (physically removing cancer, common for prostate cancer, breast cancer and others). Some of them just

gave up and let themselves die.

I worked one on one, face to face, helping people with depression, and anxiety to try to bring some relief and improve the

quality of life for these patients.

Now I live in Canada and I am a volunteer with Hope Spring which is a program that provides cancer patients, their families

and friends, with information and support. They offer alternative and complementary cancer therapies, like relaxation

therapies e.g. meditation, yoga; a diet and nutrition program for cancer patients; a wig boutique program which provides wigs

to women undergoing cancer treatment, at no charge. Now, I have alternative therapies for my work with people with cancer.

Hope Spring improves the quality of life both physically and psychologically, at no cost to the patient. Even though I cannot

work as a psychologist in Canada, I am happy I am involved in this program. I am doing what I can to help in some way and

make a difference as a volunteer. This terrible disease is something that happens in every family: everyone has or knows a

relative or friend with cancer.

Kitchener Region – Rocio A.I. is a Level 5 student. His teacher is Angela R.

WORKING WITH CANCER PATIENTS by Rocio A.I.

For more information please visit: http://www.hopespring.ca/

http://www.hopespring.ca/


Directions

Pour the ghee in a large pot over a low flame.

Fry the cardamom in the ghee.

Then fry the vermicelli in the same ghee, sti rring so it

turns golden-brown.

Watch it carefully so it doesn‘t burn.

Pour milk in golden-brown vermicelli.

Add sugar, raisins, almonds, coconut, and pistachio

into the mixture.

Heat just a little longer until they mix well.

Serve hot.

Ottawa Region – Mahreen A. is a level 6 student.

Her teacher is Morley M.

Sheer Khurma is a sweet noodle soup served by many

Pakistani, Bangladeshi and Indian Muslims to guests

during the holy month of Ramadan. The recipe was

originally a Mughal-Afghan dish, imported to Mughal-

India.

Recipes

SHEER Ingredients

• 100 g dry vermicelli

• 2 tbsp ghee/oil/butter

• 1 liter milk

• 50 g almonds, blanched and slivered

• 50 g raisins

• 50 g whole coconut, thinly sliced

• 50 g pistachios

• 250 g sugar

• 5 – 6 green cardamom by Mahreen A

KHURMA

http://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/Cookbook:Cuisine_of_India


DATE

by Ahmed H.

Directions

Fi r st , w ash the dates w el l and pu t t hem i n a l arg e

pan .

Then , add the w ater , ci n nam on , g i nger , car dam o m ,

and yeast .

Nex t , st i r t he pan con ten t w el l and cover t he pan ,

and l et i t st and t w o day s at r oom tem peratu re.

A f t er t hat , add t he sugar and bo i l t he pan con ten t

10 m inu tes and then , st r ai n t he j u i ce.

Fi nal l y , t he j u i ce can be kep t i n t he ref r i gerato r , and

i t i s served co ld

Kitchener Region – Ahmed H. is a Level 4 student. His

teacher is Carla M.

The recipe is one the Sudanese juices and it is called

“ Shrboot” . It is usually served after a heavy meal, at a

sacrifice feast or a wedding celebration.

JUICE

Ingredients

1 kg dates

8 cups water

8 cardamom pieces

1/8 tsp. yeast

½ cup sugar

1 small cinnamon stick

1 tiny piece ginger


Recipes

BUNUELO Ingredients

1lb white cheese

1 1/2 cup cornstarch

2 eggs beaten

1/2 tsp. salt

1/3 cup milk

2 tbsp. brown sugar

Directions

Grind the cheese very finely in food processor.

Mix the cheese with the cornstarch, eggs, brown

sugar, salt and milk.

Roll into balls the size of golf balls and drop into

medium-hot vegetable oil and fry slowly.

After a few minutes increase the temperature and fry

until they are golden.

New Brunswick – Yaneth S. is a Level 2 student.

Her teacher is Lourdes Z.

Buñuelos are fritters of Spanish origin. They are a

popular snack in many Latin American countries, the

Philippines, Turkey, Greece, Morocco, and are a

tradition at Christmas, Ramadan. They are an

"essential" dish in Mexican cuisine

by Yaneth S.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fritters

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Snack

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Latin_American

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Philippines

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Christmas

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ramadan


Ingredients

2 10 ounce packages frozen chopped broccoli

4 or 5 boneless chicken breasts

2 cans condensed cream soup

1 cup mayonnaise

1 tbsp. lemon juice

½ curry powder

1 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese

½ cup bread crumbs

CHICKEN

Directions

Cut chicken into large chunks and cook (microwave or

boil just until cooked through).

Arrange frozen broccoli evenly on the bottom of

13x9' ' casserole dish.

Then, mix together- undiluted soup, mayonnaise,

lemon juice, curry powder. Pour over chicken.

Next, sprinkle with grated cheese. Top with bread

crumbs tossed in melted butter.

Finally, bake uncovered at 350 for 30 minutes or until

cheese is melted and sauce mixture is bubbling

around the adages.

London Region – Cirle Jean F. is a Level 3

student. Her teacher is Hina K.

CHEESE

by Cirle Jean F.

CASSEROLE


Games and Puzzles

Central Activity

Puzzle Verse

Far, Far, Below by Duncan MacKellar Up . . up . . up above,

Away from the darkened deep.

Surging up towards the light,

In one gigantic leap.

Crashing through the tossing waves,

Ocean meets the sky.

A roaring gust of seething brine,

A long and mighty sigh.

Falling . . falling . . falling down,

Towards the swirling foam.

Through the roll and surface swell,

Emerald ocean home.

Then the sound of predators,

Closing for the kill.

Hunting bloodied waters,

Aching for their fill.

Turn . . turn . turn again,

Still they follow on.

Drifting down below once more,

Soon he w ill be gone.

The rumble of iron beast,

Slowly fades away.

Those who ride upon its back,

Curse against the spray.

Down . . down . . down . . down,

Here no man will go.

They fear the depth of his domain,

Far, far, below.

Fit the underlined words correctly into the grid


Word Search

Barbeque

Car show

Comedy act

Concert

Fair

Festival

Game

Musical

Park

Party

Play

Tournament

Are you looking for a challenging way to pass

time? Find the words in the box hidden in

the alphabet grid. Circle each word as you

find them, and cross it off the list.

Then, as part of your homework, use as many

words as you can in sentences of your own.


Answers

Central Activity

Puzzle Verse Solution Word Search Solution


If you would like to participate

in the Student Corner,

please contact us at:

[email protected]

Corner Student

Yohanka E.

My name is Yohanka E. I am from Santa Clara, Cuba, the city of Che Guevara. I am a chemical engineer by profession. I worked

in my country for more than eleven years teaching at the Central University of Las Villas, at the same time, doing research. Some

of the best experiences in those years were studying human behavior and the satisfaction of helping young people start in the

professional world. For me, these were truly unforgettable.

After eleven years, my career changed. I began working in a tire factory as a specialist in energy savings and environmental

protection. This time I was working on strategies to detect the influence of technological processes in the high incidence of

respiratory diseases and lung cancer in this factory. I found my job very challenging and rewarding.

I expanded my horizon and the changed the way how I saw the world. I came to Canada a year ago to start a new life with my

family. Here in Canada due to many factors, my career took a slight twist although I never left the field of science. I started to

study a Medical Office Assistant Certificate Course because deep of my heart, medicine is my passion. I am hopeful that I will

have a better future for myself and my family. My advice to my fellow migrants- wherever you are, never stop reaching for your

dream. And always remember the three P‘s- passion, patience and perseverance.

Toronto Region - Yohanka E. is a Level 4 student. Her teacher is Ethel Ann D.

Beatriz Adriana G.

My name is Beatriz Adriana G. I‘m from Cali, Colombia. I got married four years ago. My husband is a Canadian. I graduated

from Centro Colombiano de Estudios Profesionales (CECEP) in Industrial Engineering and I worked for the family business for

about 12 years. I have a 21 year old son and who is now living in Toronto.

Colombia is a good country. The people are very happy and the weather is great. Cali, the city where I came from is the hott est

city in Colombia and is also the most famous city in the world for salsa dancing.

I came to Canada two years ago. I am very happy because this is a wonderful, picturesque country and there are many

opportunities for newcomers.

I am living in Smithville now. It is located on Highway 20 between Hamilton and Niagara Falls in the Niagara Region. I really love

living here because it‘s very safe and peaceful.

My hobbies are exercising, listening to music, and reading. My goal is to improve my English with the help of the Blended

Learning Program. I would like to pursue a career in massage therapy and start my own business in Smithville.

Niagara Region – Beatriz Adriana G. is a Level 3 student. Her teacher is Ethel Anne D.

mailto:[email protected]


Corner Student

ZhiHui B.

I am Benny. My family and I have lived in a peaceful and quiet small town since we immigrated from China 2 years ago. I knew

living in Canada would be difficult, but I didn‘t realize how difficult it was and I almost gave up. Thank God I got through those

difficulties, but some still remain.I didn‘t like driving. In China the public transit system is convenient and cheap; people can go

anywhere by bus or taxi. Learning to drive was my first challenge in Canada. I took my first road test after 2 months p ractice with

an instructor. I was so nervous during my test that I forget to release the parking brake. After a series of other bad mistakes, I failed

the test. I practiced more in the following 3 months. When I took the road test again, I kept saying to myself "I love driving. I'm a

good driver. I'm confident." At last, I passed. Now I love driving and am becoming a good driver.

Job hunting was and continues to be difficult for me. I was working as an IT manager in China for many years. At present, I d on't

think I can get an equivalent job in Canada. My resume focuses on my experience as a software developer and network expert. To

add Canadian work experience to my resume, I worked as a volunteer in a company for more than 3 months until I got my first

professional job. Now I work as website designer in a small company. The more working experience I get, the more good

opportunities I can have to get an excellent job. Language is the biggest challenge for me. I'm not good at communicating with

people even in Chinese. I usually got low grades in English exams when I was in university in China. Now I have no choice but to

improve my English. Fortunately I can find a lot of study material here including, library books, the radio, TV, brochures from

companies or government etc… By taking part in ESL class, speaking with my English teacher each week, and reading wherever I

go, I found I have learned much more in 2 years here than in 10 years in China.

Thank for all the challenges; they have made me stronger. Through them I have learned more about my strengths and weaknesses.

In Canada is a new life for me. Thanks to Canada. I'm happy to be a Canadian.

Kitchener Region – ZhiHui B. is a Level 5 student. His teacher is Morley M.

DingFei J.

My name is DingFei J. I am from China. I got my university degree from Southeast University in Nanjing city, Jiang Su province,

China. My major was electrical engineering in the university. In China, I acted as an electrical equipment engineer at my first

company, which was an optical and electronic instrument manufacturing company. I was responsible for maintenance, operation,

and inspection of power and equipments. Then I acted as electrical project engineer at my second company where I was

responsible for the construction of a 68 floor building. I also worked as an electrical project engineer at my third company, which

is HVAC company. I was responsible for designing and installing the HVAC system. At my forth company, which was a foods

manufacturing and processing company, I acted as electrical maintenance engineer. I was responsible for the design, maintenance,

operation, and inspection of power and equipments. Then I acted as technical service engineer at my fif th company, which

is pharmaceutical company. I was responsible for design, maintenance, operation, and inspection of power and equipments.

I got married 19 years ago. My family is in Canada. My wife and my son like Canada. My son is studying in the high school. I have

many hobbies. I like to play basket ball, swimming, and play table tennis. My favourite food is Chinese duck. Canada is a beautiful

and peaceful country. I came to Canada for my son's bright future.

Toronto Region - DingFei J. is a Level 6 student. His teacher is Susan M.


Glossary Game

craving

starchy

fatigue

trim

all the rage

habitation

exploitation

an intense, urgent or abnormal desire or longing Pg.15

containing, consisting of or resembling starch Pg.15

weariness or exhaustion from labour, exertion or stress Pg.15

to make trim and neat especially by cutting or clipping; to remove by or as if by

cutting Pg.15

something that is very popular or fashionable at the moment Pg.14

a dwelling place Pg.19

an act or instance of exploiting; exploit – to make use of unfairly for one’s own

advantage Pg. 19

Use any four words from the list to create sentences of your own.

Here is some vocabulary from this month‘s newsletter.


mailbag

What are your thoughts or comments on the articles printed in

this month‘s newsletter? Do you have suggestions for articles or

sections you would like to see?

Let‘s hear from you.

e-mail us: [email protected]

LINC Home Study Forum users! Remember, you can interact w ith

other students in the LINC Home Study program and discuss topics

such as Family, Fun, Health & Travel, Job Search & Networking and

more! Please go to the following website and log in from Quick

Login.

Have fun!

http://www.linchomestudy.ca/online/forum/

Please e-mail your submissions for the newsletter by Friday January 29th.

NOTE: Articles should not exceed 500 words. Articles that exceed 500

words may be subject to editing for inclusion in the newsletter.

If you would like to submit your biography for the ― Student Corner‖ , please

do not include information on your birthday or age.

For any questions regarding submissions and guidelines please e-mail us:

[email protected]

submissions

LINC

Brought to you by the LINC Home

Study team.

A special thank you to all the

students and staff who submitted

their stories, recipes and activities

for this issue.


http://www.linchomestudy.ca/online/forum/



Home Study

LINC

Program Updates

DDrroopp--iinn CCoonnvveerrssaattiioonn SSeessssiioonnss: Throughout the summer, drop-in conversation classes were offered to LINC Home

Study students in levels 2, 3, & 4 who live within the GTA. Classes were held on Saturdays between 10am and 12pm at 2

Robert Speck Parkway, Mississauga (near Square One). These classes will continue through October and November.

AAddddiittiioonnaall CCoonnvveerrssaattiioonn CCllaasssseess ((bbyy pphhoonnee)):: Students who would like extra conversation practice can join an

additional conversation class. In addition to a regular teacher, students can have a conversation teacher who will speak

with them for another 35 to 45 minutes each week to help with improving conversation skills. Additional conversation

classes are offered as 12 week sessions to all students in the LINC Home Study program.

LLIINNCCiinngg SSeenniioorrss:: The classes for newcomer seniors 55 years of age and older at all three locations (Robert Speck

Parkway, Malton Newcomer Information Centre and Etobicoke Services for Seniors) concluded with success between th e

end of November and mid-December. The program is planning to start new sessions again in the spring.

LLIINNCCiinngg YYoouutthh:: This is a language training program designed specifically to meet the needs of newcomer youth

between the ages of 18 and 24. Sessions are held Tuesdays from 3:00pm to 4:30 pm and Wednesdays from 4:30 pm to

6:30 pm at a Malton and Mississauga location respectively. These sessions are offered in partnership with the Newcomer

Information Centres in Malton and Mississauga.

LLIINNCC HHoommee SSttuuddyy NNaattiioonnaall DDeelliivveerryy:: The LINC Hone Study program started operating in Alberta (AB), Nova

Scotia (NS) and New Brunswick (NB) in 2008. As of December 2009 the total enrolment stood at 118.

In 2009, CIC approved the expansion of the program into Saskatchewan (SK), Prince Edward Island (PE) and

Newfoundland/Labrador (NL).

For more information on any of these programs, please email the LINC Home Study office at [email protected]



Documents

The Official Newsletter of LINC Home Study · 2010-01-12 · In 2 months, I got hired full time in my career with one of the greatest teams I ever had. My husband had a few challenges