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10 Public Libraries and Book Cafes in Singapore

Nadya Sharfina · April 4, 2024 · Leave a Comment

"Singapore's literary scene thrives with public libraries, book cafes, and local bookstores fostering a love for reading and community engagement."

Singapore’s literary scene is highly lively. There are numerous public libraries and book cafes all around the place. The National Library is prominent, but there are also delightful little local bookstores hidden away in the neighbourhoods. They have an extensive book selection that caters to all tastes. You can relax with a book in a cosy corner or have interesting chats with other bookworms. All of these places contribute to Singapore’s vibrant literary culture by instilling a love of reading and providing welcoming settings for community participation and discovery.

Public Libraries

1. Library@Orchard

Photo by National Library Board

Library@Orchard stands out as a modern gem amidst bustling Orchard Road. Its sleek and contemporary design makes it an aesthetic haven for book lovers. While it provides traditional study tables for those needing a focused environment, it also offers unconventional lounging options like giant steps and cosy reading pods known as “cocoons.” These diverse settings cater to different study preferences, ensuring everyone finds their ideal spot to delve into books or hit the books.

Originally closing its doors in 2007 due to lease complications, Library@Orchard made a triumphant return in 2014 at a new location within Orchard Gateway. Now conveniently open every day from 8 am to 9 pm, it serves as the perfect pitstop for shoppers needing a break from the city’s hustle and bustle. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful place to bury yourself in a book or a cosy spot to catch up on your studies, Library@Orchard provides a refreshing blend of modernism and comfort for all guests.

2. Bishan Public Library

Photo by TimeOut

Situated just behind the bustling Junction 8 Shopping Centre in Bishan, Singapore, the Bishan Public Library is a noteworthy addition to the National Library Board network. What sets it apart is the vibrant stained glass panels inside, casting a lovely dappled light that enhances the reading atmosphere. The building features these neat reading “pods” jutting out from the windows. They provide a peaceful spot for readers to dive into their books or focus on their work, away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Aside from its beauty, the Bishan Public Library’s design has received praise both locally and abroad, earning several notable accolades for architectural excellence. Aside from its accolades, the library is an important resource for nearby schools such as Catholic High School, Guangyang Secondary School, Kuo Chuan Presbyterian Secondary School, Whitley Secondary School, Raffles Institution, and Raffles Junior College, ensuring that it remains a vibrant hub of learning and discovery in the community.

3. My Tree House – Kids Library

Photo by City Developments Limited

My Tree House, the world’s first green children’s library, is nestled within 100 Victoria Street. Aside from its environmental focus, this library is a veritable treasure trove of fiction novels, with a wide selection sure to grab the interest of its visitors. With roughly 134,000 print pieces available, My Tree House offers an attractive environment for youngsters to embark on literary excursions and explore new worlds through the pages of their favourite stories. 

My Tree House is a vibrant hub of activity that regularly hosts a variety of engaging programmes. From lively book launches and captivating exhibitions to thought-provoking book discussions and enlightening meet-the-author sessions, there’s always something happening within its walls. With daily opening hours from 10 am to 9 pm, My Tree House stands as a beacon of literary wonderment, inviting children to discover the joy of reading in an eco-friendly and enriching environment.

4. Bedok Public Library

Photo by National Library Board

Located just a stone’s throw away from the Bedok Bus Interchange and Bedok MRT station, this library stands as a vibrant hub of knowledge and community engagement. With a huge collection of about 200,000 books, over 300 magazines, and 13,000 audio-visual titles, it provides visitors with a wealth of options to explore. With 435 seats, there is plenty of room for people to read or study comfortably.

For teenagers, there’s a dedicated study area space where they can focus on their academic pursuits. Meanwhile, young readers can immerse themselves in the enchanting world of storytelling at the Story Circle designed specifically for children. Open every day from 10 am to 9 pm, this library serves as a welcoming haven for bibliophiles and learners alike, fostering a culture of curiosity and learning within the community.

5. Bukit Panjang Public Library

Photo by AndrewPhuaPhotos

Bukit Panjang Public Library is located at Bukit Panjang Plaza, 1 Jelebu Road, #04-04 & 16/17. The library features a transport-inspired design, which is a thoughtful touch meant to guide visitors through different zones—like following a journey through books and ideas.

The library also hosts programmes from time to time, including storytelling sessions for children. These sessions often include elements like light, sound, and animation to help bring the stories to life in an engaging way. It’s a nice way for kids to enjoy books in a more interactive setting. The library is open daily from 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM. To stay updated on upcoming events, you can check their official website or follow them on social media.

Book Cafes

6. Cultivate Cafe

Photo by Cultivate Cafe

Nestled within Maxwell Reserve Singapore, Autograph Collection, Cultivate Cafe offers a delightful fusion of culinary delights and literary charm. Its distinct library-themed decor creates a welcoming atmosphere, making it a great place to relax with a book in hand while socialising with friends. The cafe’s walls, lined with bookshelves, not only add to its homey feel but also serve as a stunning backdrop for taking Instagram-worthy images that will undoubtedly leave an impression.

Conveniently open daily from 11 am to 9 pm, Cultivate Cafe beckons both bookworms and food enthusiasts alike to indulge in its captivating environment. Whether you’re craving a delicious meal, seeking a quiet corner to dive into a novel, or simply looking for a charming setting to socialise with friends, this enchanting cafe promises a delightful experience that seamlessly blends gastronomy with literary allure.

7. Jing Si Books & Cafe 

Photo by Chan May Ching

Tzu Chi Jingsi Cafe welcomes visitors with its peaceful atmosphere and stylish decor featuring Jingsi Aphorisms, providing a serene place for relaxation and reflection. The simple yet elegant design offers a break from the busy pace of life, making it perfect for anyone needing a quiet moment. Stepping inside, you’ll feel a sense of calmness, setting the scene for some peaceful time alone or with friends.

You can enjoy the smell of fresh coffee and tea while browsing through the cafe’s selection of books. They’ve got everything from healthy meals like organic rice and noodles to eco-friendly products like handmade soap and Buddhist books. Whether you’re looking to unwind with a good read, enjoy a wholesome meal, or just take a breather, this cafe is the perfect spot for relaxation and rejuvenation.

8. The Book Cafe

Photo by The Book Cafe

Since its establishment in 2000, The Book Cafe has remained a beloved destination for those seeking a laid-back, book-filled hangout in the heart of the Seng Kee Building. With its cosy ambience and shelves brimming with literary treasures, the cafe offers a welcoming retreat where patrons can unwind and indulge in a leisurely meal or a captivating read. 

Beyond its charming ambience, The Book Cafe delights visitors with a diverse menu featuring an array of comfort foods to satisfy any craving. From hearty all-day breakfast options and flavorful Korean-style fried chicken to refreshing salads, pastries, pasta, and sandwiches, there’s something to please every palate. 

9. Book Bar

Photo by Book Bar

A cozy bookstore and café tucked away at 57 Duxton Road. This independent local bookshop focuses on Singapore literature and offers a special selection of books that highlight Asian stories and heritage. It’s a great spot for book lovers to discover something new and enjoy a quiet break.

The space is warm and inviting—perfect for settling in with a good read. While you’re there, you can also enjoy a drink or a bite. They serve coffee, tea, cinnamon toast, onion rings, truffle fries, and even let you make your own sandwiches.

It’s a peaceful place where readers can relax, connect, and take their time. Whether you’re there to browse or simply unwind, Book Bar is a charming spot worth visiting.

10. Epigram Coffee Bookshop

Photo by Tripadvisor

Located within the Singapore Art Museum (SAM) @ Tanjong Pagar Distripark, you’ll find a prominent publisher known for its thought-provoking collection of literature covering all age groups, with a special focus on Singaporean narratives. Epigram Books offers a wide range of titles, from captivating stories of local heritage to contemporary reflections on society, catering to readers who appreciate insightful and engaging storytelling.

Open daily from 11 am to 6:30 pm, even on public holidays, Epigram Books welcomes visitors to dive into the rich world of Singaporean literature amidst the lively atmosphere of the museum. If you need a caffeine fix, the cafe partner, Balestier Market Collective, has got you covered, ensuring you have a complete sensory experience while browsing through the literary treasures on offer. With its commitment to amplifying Singaporean voices and stories, Epigram Books is not just a publisher but also a cultural hub and a haven for literary enthusiasts keen on exploring the depth and diversity of local literature.

These are our top 10 libraries and café shops in Singapore that you must try. If you’re passionate about diving into literature, check out our blog posts on “Wide Sargasso Sea,” “Animal Farm,” or “The Merchant of Venice.” Our Free Resources are designed to deepen your understanding and enhance your analysis skills in English literature. Dive into our downloadable materials for self-study, and if you’re seeking feedback, our ‘Independent’ Marking & Feedback plan on curio.sg is here to help. 

How to Excel in School: All About Curio Classes

Rebecca Samuel · March 8, 2024 · Leave a Comment

"At Curio Classes, education transcends mere exam preparation; it's about fostering meaningful connections, exchanging stories, and sharing wisdom, making each session special and memorable."

Curio Classes are more than just tuition sessions. They involve more than exam preparation and more than a two hour session a week. Curio classes are special – and memorable – because of the way our teachers connect with our students, the stories they exchange and the wisdom they share. As educators with many years of experience under their belt, our teachers are well equipped to handle both the cognitive and affective aspects of students’ lives. 

What happens in a Curio class? Here is what we cover in English and Literature Lessons at Curio!

Curio Classes – Online Tuition Programmes

Photo by Katerina Holmes on Pexels

At the time of writing, Curio offers English Language, English Literature and General Paper group tuition in online classes. We cover the ‘O’ level, ‘A’ level and the new Singapore-Cambridge Secondary Education Certificate (SEC) which is to be offered in 2027. We also teach students in the Integrated Programme (IP) be it English, Literature or Language Arts. 

How Do Online Lessons Work?

Photo by Armin Rimoldi on Pexels

Zoom

At Curio, we use Zoom for our video calls. Zoom allows for Curio teachers to connect with their students virtually, as well as to instruct using a virtual whiteboard – students can write on it too, making it an interactive way to learn. We also use breakout rooms for when we need to speak to a smaller group of students or even just one student in order to provide extra guidance. 

Google Classroom

Our learning platform is Google Classroom, which most students are very familiar with. We upload all worksheets, notes and resources on this page, as well as instructions. 

How We Work Together

During Zoom sessions, students will work on their individual Google docs. Teachers can view these documents and will work with students during lessons, often using the ‘Edit’ or ‘Comment’ functions to provide individual feedback. The best part about learning online this way is that students and teachers can continue to work on these documents after classes are over, ensuring that learning is reinforced. 

How Do Curio Teachers Ensure That Learning is Effective?

Photo by Katerina Holmes on Pexels

In line with our commitment to excellence, we have only NIE trained teachers with an excellent track record. At Curio, we do not believe that a two hour session is always sufficient for learning to be complete. We commit to ensuring that students have access to their teachers throughout the week for additional support. Students often don’t know what they don’t know, and with this in mind, teachers will provide materials and worksheets to enhance students’ understanding wherever they need it most. This ensures that weak areas are continuously worked on until students feel confident in their ability and the demands of the subject. 

Moreover, we acknowledge the significance of accessibility and flexibility in education. Thus, our online platforms for English Language, General Paper and Literature tutoring, enable students to participate regardless of their location.

English Language Tuition (Integrated Programme) – IP

Photo by Armin Rimoldi on Pexels

The Hook

Our IP English classes have fascinating themes and as such, teachers begin the lessons with a little hook. If the topic is on the environment for example, students might watch a little video or read a photo-essay about climate change. They will then be prompted to either reflect or discuss their thoughts on the topic which usually gives rise to a lively discussion! 

The Skill

Teachers will then guide students back to the focus of the lesson – be it essay writing, comprehension or critical response (AQ for JC students) – and will go into detail about a particular skill which students will be expected to harness by the end of the lesson. Examples of skills range from understanding characterisation in Narrative Writing to mastering the IYOW (in your own words) question for Comprehension. 

The Method

Once teachers have thoroughly gone through the skill that students are expected to pick up by the end of the class, they will introduce students to the content. This may involve planning out points for an argumentative essay, or coming up with examples for an application question. Teachers will alternate between group discussions and individual work at this point, utilising students’ personalised Google docs and breakout rooms on Zoom. 

English Language Tuition (‘O’ Levels or Singapore-Cambridge Secondary Education Certificate) – SEC

Photo by Mikhail Nilov on Pexels

The Hook

Our ‘O’ level or SEC English classes will have common themes which are tested for Orals, Listening, Comprehension and Essay Writing. As such, teachers will usually begin the lessons with a discussion around topics such as volunteering or technology. Students are prompted to discuss their thoughts on the topic and the teacher will go through a suggested response for an Oral examination. Some lessons include a mini listening comprehension as well, whereby students listen to audio or watch a video and then answer questions pertaining to what they heard. These hooks ensure that students are always kept in touch with these two particular components of the exam which are often left to the last minute. 

The Skill

Teachers will then guide students back to the focus of the lesson – be it essay writing, comprehension or situational writing. They will go into detail about a particular skill which students will be expected to harness by the end of the lesson. Examples of skills range from understanding how to use signposts and connectors while writing essays, to mastering the art of tone when writing proposals or articles for Situational Writing. 

The Method

Once teachers have thoroughly gone through the skill that students are expected to pick up by the end of the class, they will introduce students to the content. This may involve planning out points for an expository essay, or identifying answers correctly in a comprehension passage. Teachers will alternate between group discussions and individual work at this point, utilising students’ personalised Google docs and breakout rooms on Zoom. 

English Literature Tuition (‘O’ levels, SEC or ‘A’ levels)

Photo by Zen Chung on Pexels

As different schools are covering different novels, plays or poetry, we try to group students according to school or text. We even have classes which cover only Unseen Poetry (to the great joy of our JC students). Our Literature classes are incredibly enjoyable as students not only learn how to tackle the exams, they also learn empathy, appreciation and how to broaden their worldview. Classes for younger students typically begin with a quiz (with Kahoot, Blooket etc) to help them to remember the plot of a novel. We then go on to teach annotation and answering techniques (e.g using PEEL, PEAL or PEDAL). Older students benefit from an in depth discussion of a poet, playwright or novelist’s works. This is followed up with essay outlines or a detailed analysis of passage based questions.  

How to Excel in Literature: Haroun and the Sea of Stories

curiosg · March 8, 2024 · Leave a Comment

“Nothing comes from nothing, Thieflet; no story comes from nowhere; new stories are born from old--it is the new combinations that make them new.”
― Salman Rushdie, Haroun and the Sea of Stories

Author’s Background
Quiz Chapter 5

“Haroun and the Sea of Stories” is a captivating novel written by Salman Rushdie in 1990. It tells the story of a boy named Haroun who sets out on an extraordinary journey to restore his father’s ability to tell stories. Along the way, he encounters a fascinating array of characters and ventures into a magical world where imagination reigns supreme.

The book delves into themes of creativity, freedom of expression, and the power of storytelling. It’s a whimsical adventure that highlights the importance of preserving the richness of our imagination in the face of adversity. Through its enchanting narrative, “Haroun and the Sea of Stories” invites readers to embark on a voyage of discovery and rediscover the magic of storytelling.

Photo by mrunamistry.com

You can use our worksheets to study on your own. For more insightful feedback and comprehensive comments, you can try out the English Literature Programme that’s only on Curio.sg!

Taylor Swift’s Songs in Literary Debate

Nadya Sharfina · March 2, 2024 · Leave a Comment

"Taylor Swift's lyrics resonate worldwide, capturing hearts and sparking debate on their literary depth."

Only a few musicians in popular music capture the same level of attention and affection that Taylor Swift does. Swift has established herself as one of the most influential figures in contemporary pop culture, through her catchy melodies and relatable lyrics. Her songs have a strong resonance with listeners all across the world.

As Swift continues to garner numerous prestigious awards and acclaim for her contributions to music, a more serious concern arises: Do Taylor Swift’s lyrics have any real literary value?

Narrative Structure

Photo by Getty Image

Many of Taylor Swift’s songs are like mini-novels set to music. They begin someplace, take us on a journey, and conclude, exactly like narratives found in books. They stand out because they explore topics such as love, heartbreak, friendship, and personal growth—the things that make life feel like a story worth telling. Taylor is a skilled storyteller, combining her experiences into relevant stories that hit close to heart.

Take “Champagne Problems,” for instance. It explores the idea of problems that might seem small to others but carry significant weight for the individual. Taylor Swift’s song paints a vivid picture of someone struggling with personal issues, like turning down a marriage. The lyrics, such as “Your mom’s ring in your pocket, My picture in your wallet, Your heart was glass, I dropped it, Champagne problems,” capture the essence of the song’s emotional depth. In her typical style, Taylor Swift’s song feels genuine and sincere, offering insight into human emotions and relationships.

Then there’s “Speak Now,” which feels like a musical version of a rom-com. With her lyrics and catchy tunes, she tells this story about a girl crashing a wedding. In the song, she urges, “Don’t say yes, just run away now. I’ll meet you at the back door when you’re out of the church. Don’t bother saying any vows.” Every verse gets us closer to the couple’s daring escape. It’s lighthearted but expertly produced, demonstrating Taylor’s exceptional storytelling ability.

Symbolism and Metaphor

Photo by Getty Image

Taylor Swift does more than simply create great songs and relatable lyrics; she’s also great with symbolism and metaphor. These literary techniques give her songs more depth and delicacy, allowing them to connect with listeners on a deeper level. Taylor uses sophisticated wordplay and imagery to tell stories inside her songs that are up to interpretation.

In “Red,” Taylor Swift crafts another poignant metaphor that captures the complexity of relationships. When she sings, “Fighting with him was like trying to solve a crossword and realising there’s no right answer,” She offers a realistic image of the frustration and futility that many people feel during arguments. 

Taylor’s metaphor captures the sense of ambiguity and uncertainty that can occur when two people clash. Like a difficult crossword with no clear answer, the tensions she recounts leave both sides confused and uncertain of how to proceed. It’s an effective portrayal of the complexity that comes with interactions between people, where emotions, egos, and opposing viewpoints frequently collide.

Taylor’s use of metaphor may also be seen in “All Too Well.” This song is a lyrical gem. The scarf metaphor evolves into a powerful symbol of lost love and nostalgia, weaving its way through the words as a physical recollection of a previous relationship. The scarf takes on a life of its own, representing the memories and feelings that endure long after the relationship is over. 

Through songs like these, Taylor Swift showcases her skilful use of symbolism and metaphor, turning everyday objects and experiences into profound reflections on life, love, and the human condition. It’s this ability to infuse her music with layers of meaning that sets her apart as one of the most compelling songwriters of our time.

Commercial Intent

Photo by Getty Image

Taylor Swift is known for writing songs that fascinate large audiences. Critics, on the other hand, are sceptical of Swift’s commercial success. They say that, while her songs top the charts, their commercial success frequently overshadows their creative merit. In the competitive world of pop music, where success is judged by record sales and sold-out arenas, Swift’s critics wonder if her financial success detracts from her song’s literary value.

Although Swift’s songs reach millions of people around the world, her creative value remains debatable. She’s constantly managing commercial success and staying faithful to her talent, balancing pop recognition and critical acclaim. However, in an environment where entertainment and expression intersect, Swift’s music may be worth appreciating for its capacity to bridge the gap between commercial appeal and artistic expression, exceeding the confines of traditional literary discourse.

Cultural and Societal Bias

Photo by Billboard

Cultural and societal biases frequently cast shadows over popular culture, including music, potentially clouding judgments on whether Taylor Swift’s songs may be considered literature. Within literary circles, old-fashioned forms and genres take primacy over modern commercial music, affecting conceptions of what constitutes literature. This bias can lead to songs being excluded from literary discourse, as certain scholars and critics value the written word over the auditory experience provided by music.

However, such biases may obscure the literary value of Swift’s music. While her music may not meet conventional literary requirements, it is indisputably culturally significant and resonates strongly with millions of listeners around the world. By widening the definition of literature to include various forms of artistic expression, such as music, we may see Swift’s contributions as part of a rich and developing literary landscape.

Despite some critics’ concerns about Swift’s commercial appeal, there’s no questioning her ability to balance pop popularity and literary recognition. While cultural biases may sometimes exclude modern music from literary conversations, Swift’s work questions established assumptions of what constitutes literature. By encouraging us to appreciate music’s storytelling power, she expands our understanding of the various types of artistic expression that influence our world.

Thinking of doing a deeper dive into Literature? Try out Curio’s classes and immerse yourself in the fabulous worlds made up of prose, poetry and plays! 

Singapore’s Top 5 Tuition Centres Leading the Way in 2023

Nadya Sharfina · June 16, 2023 · Leave a Comment

"Education is the passport to the future, and tuition serves as the guiding compass on that transformative journey."

Parents in Singapore are constantly looking for proven strategies, excellent tutors and structured learning material to propel their children towards academic success. In Singapore’s fast-paced and intensely competitive educational environment, many reputable tuition centres offer to aid students in their learning journeys.  With so many options, it can be difficult to select the best tuition option. In this article, we are going to explore the best 5 tuition options for kids in Singapore, whether children need assistance with difficult subjects, preparation for critical examinations, or just some extra support. 

1. The Learning Lab

Photo by The Learning Lab on Facebook

The Learning Lab is a popular tuition and enrichment centre in Singapore with over 20 years of experience to their name. From preschool to junior college, they provide a variety of exciting programs. They are well known for having an incredibly thorough curriculum and proven teaching techniques. The best part is here: It’s not only about grades in the Learning Lab. They want kids to have an all-rounded education. They place emphasis on developing critical thinking skills, effective communication skills, and moral character. They have an excellent track record of assisting learners to achieve academic success.

2. Curio.sg

Photo by Curio.sg

Curio is the result of the team’s extensive experience in teaching, mentoring, and tutoring students in Singapore for over 20 years. The teachers have taught in the top schools and are well-versed in the challenges that students face in school and the importance of metacognition. Curio utilises The Sapience Method, a unique learning framework with the aim of developing all-rounded students with a focus on both cognitive and socio-emotional growth. 

Some of Curio’s unique features include: 

  • Unlimited Marking & Feedback
  • Personalised Revision & Study Notes
  • Access to a Curio Tutor all Year
  • Complimentary Consultation before signing up

Curio is an online only school because they believe the future will consist more and more of people working and studying virtually.  Being fully online also helps Curio to reduce waste and be more eco-friendly. This forward-thinking approach is reflected not only in how they deliver education but also in the range of subjects they offer.

Curio currently offers English Language and English Literature for secondary students on the ‘O’ level and IP tracks. They also offer General Paper and Literature for students sitting for the ‘A’ levels.

3. Tien Hsia Language School

Photo by Tien Hsia Language School on Facebook

Tien Hsia Language School has been established since 1989—more than 30 years—and has numerous branches all across Singapore. Chinese listening, speaking, reading, and writing are all covered in Tien Hsia’s unique curriculum. They have programmes for all ages and academic levels, from preschool to secondary to . They make studying Chinese a blast! To help kids truly get into it, they include games, exercises, and fascinating content like videos. It’s not just about language learning, they also impart knowledge of Chinese culture. That’s why Tien Hsia is a popular choice for parents who want their kids to learn Chinese in Singapore.

4. MindChamps

Photo by MindChamps on Facebook

MindChamps seek to support kids’ mental, social, and emotional development in every way. They have a thorough curriculum that covers everything from critical thinking to creativity and effective communication. MindChamps encourages kids to possess outstanding character qualities like strength, integrity, and compassion. They also instruct in a variety of areas, including Mandarin, English, Math, and Science. 

Additionally, it’s not just about the academic stuff. MindChamps has extra activities too, like public speaking, drama, and leadership training. They really want kids to feel confident and be all-around amazing individuals.

5. Academia

Photo by Academia on Facebook

Looking for a tutoring provider that makes learning fun and effective? Check out Academia! When kids learn at Academia, it’s not just about memorising stuff. They actually tap into kids’ natural ability to understand and use new knowledge. Parents also don’t need to worry because Academia’s curriculum is constantly improving. To ensure everything is of the highest calibre, they have teaching professionals with degrees from Ivy League Universities.

The exceptional accomplishments of its students serve as compelling evidence that Academia is a preferred choice for high-quality education. With over 60% of students achieving AL1 scores in the 2021 and 2022 PSLE, and a remarkable 70% earning Distinctions in the 2021 A-Level General Paper, Academia’s teaching philosophy is undeniably effective.

How to Score in Literature – Download Free Notes ‘Gossamer’

curiosg · June 8, 2023 · Leave a Comment

“Everything that you're a part of. Your own story fills you.”

― Lois Lowry, Gossamer

If you enjoy learning Literature, but are unsure of how to score, you have come to the right place. Furthermore, beyond annotating and understanding your text, the best way to score better for your tests is to practice your analysis and writing. Download the free quizzes and worksheets on this page if you are studying ‘Gossamer’ by Lois Lowry.

What Is ‘Gossamer’ About?

Gossamer is a captivating novel about the power of dreams, written by Lois Lowry and published in 2006. It is a unique novel that blends fantasy and realism, perfect for young adult readers. The story delves into the intriguing origins of dreams and centres around the adventures of Littlest One, a magical and fairy-like creature. Littlest One has a special ability to collect memories from everyday objects and use them to weave and bestow mesmerising dreams. While Littlest One is the main character, there are other fascinating characters in the book. Her mentor, Thin Elderly, a kind old woman, John, a troubled and angry young boy, and a loyal dog named Toby.

Feel free to download the chapter summary questions and give them a try. Further, if you’d like to receive valuable feedback with detailed comments on how to improve, you can explore the ‘Independent’ Marking & Feedback‘ exclusively available on Curio.sg!

How Does ‘Independent’ Marking & Feedback‘ Work?

When students sign up for this option, they will receive personalised notes and worksheets once a week. The student’s task is to complete these worksheets and email them back to their assigned tutor. Using google docs, the tutor will mark and provide detailed feedback to the student. They will also assign a mark based on rubrics (these can be rubrics used by the student’s school, or rubrics from the ‘O’ level programme).

Students who are motivated and driven will benefit from these feedback cycles, as they will always have personalised attention paid to their progress.

Studying ‘Gossamer’ and need some extra help? Check out the quizzes below and see if you can find all the answers from your text!

Gossamer-1-8-CurioDownload

Gossamer-13-15-Curio-1Download

Gossamer-16-18-CurioDownload

Gossamer-19-21-CurioDownload

How to Excel in Literature: The Merchant of Venice

Rebecca Samuel · June 8, 2023 · Leave a Comment

Study The Merchant of Venice - a timeless play with love, greed, friendship, prejudice, and justice.

The Merchant of Venice is a wonderfully relevant text to study in modern times. Love, Greed, Friendship, Prejudice and Justice intermingle in a timelessly entertaining play that has kept audiences on the edges of their seats for centuries. Fear not the style of writing and words unknown – once you get the hang of it, studying this text will be as easy as the ‘gentle rain from heaven’. Click on the resources below to self study or if you need practices to be graded and returned to you with comprehensive feedback on how to improve, try the ‘Independent’ Marking & Feedback plan on Curio.sg to get yourself a dedicated marking coach!

The Merchant of Venice – Setting

The-Merchant-of-Venice-Setting NotesDownload

Merchant-of-Venice-Act-1-Scene-2-Excerpt-Analysis-CurioDownload
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