Module 05

Module 05: Developing an Effective Style

Posted by: Angelita P. Oblianda

Sources: Interactive Technical Writing by P.C. Villamarzo, et al.

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 INTRODUCTION

       
          Francis Bacon has said that writing makes you an exact man; Barbara Kroll says writing is a complex and ongoing process. These mean that you cannot just put pen to paper when ideas come to you. You have to follow the steps in writing (see Module 01), because it is a complex process.

DEVELOPING AN EFFECTIVE STYLE

What is STYLE ?

         According to Mr. Webster, it is the way in which anything is made , done, written, or spoken. People vary in their styles according to a lot of factors such as intelligence, attitude, education, values, and family background, but, an elegant and effective style in writing may be developed through constant reading and writing. Make a habit of writing down your ideas and never be satisfied with one draft only and have you written work evaluated and edited by your peers. PATIENCE and PERSISTENCE will help you develop your own remarkable style. 

STYLES HAS THREE (3) ELEMENTS

                                   

                                         a. choice of words

                                         b. sentence structure

                                         c. ability to adopt to reader's knowledge and language proficiency 

A. CHOICE OF WORDS

         Write simple and familiar words when you write academic texts like report, abstracts, proposals, feasibility, studies, research papers, case studies and letters. 

B. SENTENCE STRUCTURE

         There are four types of sentence according to structures. (see module 04). It is advisable to use simple and familiar words, but it doesn't mean you have to use simple sentences all the time. 

        As much as possible, however, your text must not have too much of the compound -complex type for easy readability. Remember again the principle-- your readers are intelligent, but you have to adopt to their level of proficiency. Besides, your readers might be busy people  and might not have the time to decipher your difficult text.

C.ABILITY TO ADAPT TO YOUR READERS' LEVELS OF KNOWLEDGE AND LANGUAGE 

     PROFICIENCY 

         No two people are the same. We differ in our capabilities, talents, interest, learning styles, and strategies, and in many other characteristics. On the other hand, when you write, you have to assume that more or less, your readers are similar in some ways. For instance, all of them may be capable of understanding academic texts because of their educational background. Their ability to understand however, may vary in degree. On the other hand, you should also assume that not all of them have the necessary background that will enable them to easily understand your texts. 

         Consider also their ability to understand and use the language of your text. Some may have a superior linguistics proficiency; others may have just a limited language proficiency. This means that the language of the text is neither first nor their second language. Or, it could be possible that only their oral communication skills, not their written communication skills, have been adequately developed. It is imperative, therefore, that you place yourself in the position of your readers as you write. If you can easily understand what you have written; if you can distinguish  the main points from the subordinate ones; if you can easily summarize your text, then, you must have organized and written it well.

         Improving your style necessitates reading scientific and technical journals as often as you can to be acquainted with the words and phrases that are often used in these types of texts. You must also pay attention to how paragraphs are developed and linked to one another.

         Academic texts have three (3) important parts--introduction, body, and conclusion. 

         In the INTRODUCTION, you need to give a brief background on the topic,in the BODY, tell them all about you topic and in the CONCLUSION, simply summarize what you have stated in the body of you paper. 

GUIDE IN DEVELOPING YOUR STYLE IN WRITING

1. Determine your purpose and your readers.

2. What kind of information would you like to give or share with them.

3. Remember to assume that your readers are intelligent but not as knowledgeable as you are on that particular information.

4. Choose the pattern that is best suited for your purpose of your information.

5. Focus on you language. Adapt your vocabulary and the structure of your sentences to the ability and language proficiency of your readers.

      

 

Module 04

 Module 04: Types of Sentences

 Posted by: Angelita P. Oblianda

 Sources: Interactive Technical Writing by P.C. Villamarzo, et.al

               Advance Grammar and Composition c/o Prof. Esagre
               http://www.learnamericanenglishonline.com/

               http://www.learnamericanenglishonline.com/

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   Introduction

        The sentence is a grammatically complete and independent utterances containing a subject and a predicate and it generates meaning.

           In dialogue prose, however, we have sentences, which are not grammatically complete, but they communicate a clear idea. The meaning is conveyed by context, by tones of boys, by facial expression and by gestures.

             Sentences are classified according to the number of their clauses and to their relationship to other clauses. they are the simple sentence, the compound sentence, the complex sentence and the compound-complex sentence.

1. SIMPLE

          A simple sentence contains only one subject and predicate and expresses only one thought. It may also have a compound subject and a compound predicate.There is only one independent clause. There may be one or more topics in the independent clause.

       Examples:

          a. The girls danced.

          b. The boys and girls danced.

          c. The girls talked and danced.

          d. The boys and girls talked and danced.

2. COMPOUND SENTENCE

          A compound sentence, contains two or more independent clauses which are related to each other in some form such as addition of ideas, contrast of ideas, and choice of ideas. Each clause is independent of each other.These may be joined by COORDINATING conjunctions like AND, BUT, OR,NOR, FOR, SO, and YET (fanboys). A semi-colon may also join the independent clause.

     Examples:

          a. Retinol is found in liver, fortified cereals, and energy bars; multivitamins can contain more than twice the current recommended daily amount of 700 micrograms.

          b. Multivitamins are good for the body, but they should be taken in moderation.

          c. I knew the arsonist; I saw him burn the building.

          d. My sister went on a strict diet but he lost only a pound.

3. COMPLEX SENTENCE

          A complex sentence contains one independent clause and one or more dependent clauses. The dependent clauses may be an adjective, an adverb or a noun. These are joined by subordinating conjunctions such as because, since, for, although, even though, though, unless, until, inasmuch as, if, so that, and while.

            Examples:

          a. In animal studies, the form of vitamin A called retinol, can slow bone growth, so, researchers at Harvard Medical School decided to check dietary levels of the vitamin in72,337 woman in the Nurses' Health Study.  

           b. Since the bone converts beta carotene to A when supplies run low, you are less likely to accidentally overdo it.

            c. After I came home, I made a dinner.

            d. We visited the museum before it closed.

4. COMPOUND-COMPLEX SENTENCE

              A compound-complex sentence, contains two or more independent clauses and one dependent clause. The independent clauses are joined by coordinating conjunction, or by a semi-colon alone. The dependent clause modifies a word in one of the main clauses or acts as a noun within one of them.

            Examples:

            a. We went to Legaspi and we saw Mayon Volcano that has attracted tourists over the world.

            b. Since it was raining violently, we decided to stay home; Lucy studied her lessons and I worked
                on my term paper.

            c. Although I like to go camping, I haven't had the time to go lately , and I haven't found anyone to go
                with.

            d. We decided that the movie was too violent, but our children, who like to watch scary movies,
                thought that we were wrong.

Evaluation:

       Write Five (5) sample sentences for simple, compound, complex, and compound-complex sentences in a one whole sheet of paper.

          

         

           

  

Module 03

Module 03: Some Basic Technical Writing Technique
Posted by: Angelita P. Oblianda
Sources: Technical Writing Technique c/o Ms. Illoran's note
              Interactive Technical Writing by P.C. Villamarzo et al.

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INTRODUCTION:

       Aside from the definition that is one of the basic technical writing techniques, there are also some which are not commonly used by many.

SOME BASIC TECHNICAL WRITING TECHNIQUES

A. Description of a Process

   
     A process is a series of steps to get something done. There are processes that can easily be demonstrated by showing how the procedure is dine step by step. The demonstrator must explain first what the process is; give the steps to be followed and then show how these steps should be executed. To avoid errors or complications, the things to be avoided must also be mentioned and explained. Some examples of these processes are as follows: how to make a terrarium; how to make a simple-give away items; how to clean a microscope; and how to operate a computer.

Example:

How to Operate a Computer

Level of difficulty: Beginner

This procedure attempts to outline the basics in operating a computer system based on the assumption that it is running under the Microsoft Windows XP Operating System platform with normal components such as CD or DVD drive, Network Interface Card, and video card installed in the CPU. The steps outlined are formatted in such a way that it is applicable to the two most common computer system architectures: the desktop and the laptop. Essentially, a desktop computer is just what its name suggests. It is big enough to sit on the desk and is considered as the most common type of computer system. A laptop or sometimes referred to as a “notebook” is a smaller and more mobile version of the desktop machine and is normally used in the same manner but with relatively lower power requirements.

Materials Needed:

- CPU
- keyboard
- monitor
- mouse
- speakers
- printer
- Operating System

Step 1

Prior to powering up the computer system, make sure that the power cord is firmly connected to the back panel of the CPU and is plugged into the wall socket.

Step 2

Check if the video cable is firmly screwed to the port of the video card with the other end connected to the back panel of the monitor.

Step 3

Make sure that both the keyboard and mouse pointing device are securely plugged to the back panel. Also, check if they are connected to the correct port by checking on the markings. Steps 1 to 3 are essentially easy to do because aside from the mouse and keyboard devices, other components can only be plugged into their proper ports preventing the novice user from interchanging them.

Step 4

When all connections are secure, start up the machine by pressing the power button normally located in the front panel of the CPU.

Step 5

Depending on the configuration of the machine, a username and password may be requested; otherwise, the Operating System may be loaded directly to display the desktop to the user.

Step 6

Other basic operations that can be done include adjusting monitor settings in Step 8. Installation and launching of software is outlined in Step 10. Navigation of the file system is detailed from Step 15.

Step 7

The proper way to shut down or turn off the computer system is by clicking on the 'Start' button and choosing the 'Turn Off Computer' option. This will display the options to 'Standby', 'Restart', or 'Turn Off' the machine.

Step 8

To adjust the monitor settings, right click on any blank portion of the desktop and select the 'Properties' option from the context menu.

Step 9

On the 'Display Properties' window, select the 'Settings' tab to adjust the resolution of the screen. The 'Themes' tab will allow the loading of pre-designed Windows themes. The 'Desktop' tab provides the way for changing the color of the desktop as well as the displayed wallpaper. The 'Appearance' tab provides the various options of changing the behavior of the windows, icons, and other elements of the platform, while the 'Screen Saver' tab shows the option to allow the monitor to go on standby or display animation.

Step 10

To extend the functionality of any computer system, software is normally installed into the local hard drive. A software installer may be through some media like a CD or DVD or from being downloaded from the Internet.

Step 11

For CD or DVD installers, insert the installation disk in the CD or DVD drive of the machine. This will be automatically read and launched by the Operating System.

Step 12

When the installation process is initiated, a new window will normally be displayed to the user. Majority of newer installers provide either a default or an advanced installation procedure. In most cases, simply click on the default process to allow the installer to complete the entire process with minimum user intervention.

Step 13

Upon completion of the installation process, a user may be prompted to reboot the machine. Follow the guide in Step 7 to accomplish this task.

Step 14

To launch the software, simply click on the 'Start' Menu, choose 'All Programs' and select from the menu the program intended to be run. An alternative to this process is to check if a shortcut link is created on the Desktop. Clicking this icon will also launch the associated program.

How to organize a process description:

   1. Introduction
        1.1 Definition of Process
        1.2 Purpose

   2. Raw Material

   3. Equipment

   4. Description of the Process

   5. Conclusion

B. Description of a Mechanism

       Mechanism is an assembly of movable parts having one part fixed with respect to the frame of reference and designed to produced an effect. Mechanism are combination of such moving members as links, gears, cams, belts, chains, and springs held in a rigid frame. A mechanism may be designed primarily to transmit power greatly in excess of that required to overcome the frictional and dynamic requirements of the mechanism itself or to produce a desired relative movement of its parts.

Example

     A cellular phone comes in different brands, models and types. The most popular brands are Nokia, Sony Ericson, Siemens, Panasonic, and Samsung. The different models are identified through numbers; thus, for Nokia, some of the more popular models are Nokia 6800, 2100, 3510, 6610 and 3530. The other models of the other brands are likewise identified through numbers. These different models and types also differ in functions. Some are small and light, yet they can function as calculators, alarm clocks, calendars, organizers, and cameras. Others are moderately heavy and big, but they are also capable of performing the same functions that smaller models do. Most of these highly technical devices are expensive. The parts of the cellphone are the built in mouth-piece, the screen, the keyboard that contains the letters and numbers and the buttons for the different functions. 

 Organizing a Mechanism Description

   1. Introduction
        1.1 Definition of the mechanism
        1.2 Use or function of the mechanism
        1.3 General statement of the principle governing its operation
        1.4 Physical description of the mechanism
        1.5 Principal parts which make up the mechanism
   2.Description of Mechanism
        2.1 Principal part # 1 
   3. Brief Description of how the mechanism works and how it is used.

C. Classification

     It is the process of dividing material into kinds or classes. It involves not only dividing the subject into its constituent classes but also grouping similar units in a sub-class which in turn falls into a larger class.


Principles Involved:

   1. Classify constituently in a single basis which points to a fundamental distinction among the members of the class. For example, the characteristics of the paper may be divided into physical, optical, chemical, electrical, and microscopical.

   2. The basis of clssification should further the purpose controlling it.

   3. Classification should not overlap.

   4. Name all the species according to a given basis.

Example:

roses, tulips, violets, forget-me-nots, orchids, lotus, water lilies, tiger lilies

AQUATIC PLANTS             TERRESTRIAL PLANTS              AERIAL PLANTS
lotus, water lilies                      roses, tulips, violets,                          orchids
                                            forget-me-nots, tiger lilies  
            
D. Partition

       It is an analysis that divides a singular item into parts, steps, or aspects. Only singular subjects can be partitioned; plural subjects are clssified. Parttion breaks down into its componoents a concrete subject such as a tree (parts: roots, trunk, branches and leaves), or an abstract subjects, such as inflation (aspects: causes, effects on consumers, etc.).

   The above example is a claw hammer. Claw hammer has different parts- eye, cheek, neck, poll and face.

Characteristics of partition


1. The division must be coordinate.
2. The division must be mutually exclusive.
3. The division must not overlap.
4. The divisions must be complete.

Points to Remember:

THERE ARE FOUR FUNDAMENTAL PRINCIPLES OF TECHNICAL WRITING THAT WILL GUIDE TECHNICAL WRITERS

1.      You must always have the purpose when you write. From beginning to end, keep this in mind to make every sentence contribute to the achievement of that purpose.

2.      Whatever you write will be read by one or more persons. These persons may not know the information you are conveying or sharing, but, certainly, they are capable of understanding what they read.

3.      You must present your ideas in sentences that are coherent, cohesive, logical, and grammatically correct. Use formal language, too. It might be necessary to use some technical or special terms. The general principle, however, is to use simple and familiar words.

4.      Follow a pattern that is suitable to your purpose. To have a well-organized paper, you can follow the three Ts formula. In your introduction, tell your readers what you want to tell them; in the body, tell them; and in the conclusion, tell them what you have told them.

Evans and St. John (1998) suggest the acronym M.A.P. to guide technical writers. M for message or topics;  A for audience or reader;  and P for purpose. Keep this MAP and the three Ts always in your mind as you write an academic paper.

 

Module 02

Module 02: Basic Technical Writing Techniques

Posted by: Angelita P. Oblianda

Sources: Technical Writing and Reporting by J.I.L. Igoy, Ph.D. et al.

              Interactive Technical Writing by P.C. Villamarzo, J.G. Relis and E.E. Cruz

              Technical Writing notes c/o Ms. Illoran

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Introduction 

              Some author call this process in Technical Writing; others call it dominant pattern. For the purpose of this module, I shall call this basic technical writing technique. You often meet this in your different subjects, its just that, you do not have the knowledge, if it is also one of the techniques in Technical Writing.

              Let us discuss the common technique in detail.

A. DEFINITION

              There are several words and phrases that we need to understand to comprehend a given text. Some may be relatively familiar or easy but when used in science, mathematics, or any other related fields, they may acquire different meanings. Some may be totally unfamiliar to us. Others are the big words, which have simpler counterparts, yet these big and more difficult words are preferred by those who like to impress other people with their mastery of the language. These are the technical terms in the various fields of disciplines and professions. Technical terms should be defined in technical writing because of the unfamiliarity of a great number of these terms. The problem of definition may be avoided entirely if the writer knows how to use simple and familiar terminology. Definition as one of the special techniques in technical writing exemplifies the meaning of a term. It could be stated formally or informally.

              In summary, these are the words that you need to define:

        a. simple words with special meaning in science or any other technical field

        b. technical terms

        c. difficult or high sounding words

                                                2 Types of Definition

1.FORMAL DEFINITION

            
            It focuses special attention on a term. If the writer finds the formal sentence definition, more effective than the informal definition, the technique of formal definition must be employed. 

        Formal Sentences Definition

                 It has three parts: term, genus, and differentia

a.       Term – the concept defined

b.      Genus – the family to which the term belong

c.       Differentia – the specific characteristics of the species which sets it apart from all         

                              others of it  class

  EXAMPLE :

                  TERM                       GENUS                          DIFFERENTIA

              A triangle            a plane figure        bounded by three straight lines having three angles

 Extended Formal Definition

        A one-sentence definition sometimes is not in defining a complex or highly specialized term. A reader might be dissatisfied with this explanation, especially if it occurred in a report particularly concerned with the subject . He might very well ask what the term is not, where it is located, what its function is, what its effects are.

 Take the term “ozone” as an example.

A formal sentence goes like this:

“A bluish gaseous reactive form of oxygen that is formed naturally in the atmosphere and is used for disinfecting, deodorizing, and bleaching”.

           POINTERS                                                          TEXT

What ozone is                                    -which some people wrongly think is the refreshing               

                                                           air at the Seaside,is a poisonous type of oxygen .At

                                                           ground level, it  makes up less than one part per       

                                                            million of the air. However,

Location of Ozone                             -a thin layer of ozone about 24 kms, above ground level the

                                                           stratosphere, blocks outmost of the sun’s burning            

 Function of ozone                             - ultraviolet rays

 Effect of ozone destroyed                 - If these rays reached the ground, they would kill all

                                                           land animals and plants. That is why, this poisonous

                                                           gas shield is important. There is considerable concern

                                                           over reports of the possible destruction of this ozone

                                                           layer by the pollutants.

There are different ways by which we can expand a formal definition. Some of these ways are as follows:

     1. giving the uses or the functions of a term

Example:

     One of the organs we cannot live without is the liver, which is the largest organ in our body. It enables the body to function efficiently by filtering toxic substances from the blood. It is responsible for producing proteins, bile, and immune agents, without which, our body will not be able to combat infection and disease.

      2. giving the origin of the term

Example:

     The word placebo comes from a Latin word which means pleasing or acceptable. It refers to the desire of a person who seeks the help of the doctor to be healed.

     3. giving its causes and or effects, advantages or disadvantages

Example:

     Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, can cause headaches and intestinal and rinary problems when taken in excess doses. It can also increase iron absorption, a condition which can have adverse effects on people with certain blood disorders.

     4. illustrating or describing its appearance

Example:

     An organ is a large complex musical wind instrument with pipes, stops, and a keyboard.

     5. explaining what is not

Example:

     A good breakfast cannot be equated with just a cup of coffee and a cookie. Neither that it just consist of one serving of fruit and a glass of water. Nor should it be a bowl of rice and coffee.

    6. analyzing its parts

Example:

     The process of writing consists of four stages: getting ideas, getting started, writing drafts, and revising.

( Raimes, 1983) The first require the  writer to brainstorm with peers and other persons to generate topics to write on. The second requires him or her to start locating sources and taking down notes. The third is the writing stage itself. The last requires the writer to polish the initially produced manuscript.

     7. classifying it

Example:

     Theobromen belongs to a class of alka loid molecules known as methylxanthine found in cocoa beans.

     8. stating where it is from

Example:

     Stress is a term which was introduced in 1956 in the American vernacular.

     9. giving its collocations

Example:

     Stress has always been associated with changes, worries, pressures, and problems.

     10. giving examples

Example:

     Examples of lyric poems are sonnet, song, ode, simple lyric, and the elegy.

2. INFORMAL DEFINITION

        According to Mills and Walter, it does not require the application of an unchanging, rigid formula; rather, it is a “technique” that can be used only when the writer is certain that the term alone  and not the referent which is unfamiliar to the reader. It consists of one or more synonymous expressions substituted for the unfamiliar term used.

Examples:

            TERM                                                  INFORMAL DEFINITION                                      

         Broadcast                                                    report (synonym)

         Broadcast                                                 the transmission of sounds or images                    

                                                                                (synonymous phrase )

Here are some guides when you are writing using the Definition Technique:

1.Try to use simple terms. Do not define an unfamiliar term by using more difficult terminology which would rather confuse the reader.

2.If the term being defined is a noun, the word after should also be a noun. Do not begin you definition with when, what or where.  

3.In defining a term, avoid using the term itself or any of its derivative.  

4.Do not put the term you ae defining into two broad or too narrow a class.

    

Module 01

Module 01: Sequence of Activities in the Writing Process

Posted by: Angelita P. Oblianda

Sources : Interactive Technical Writing by Perla C. Villamarzo, J.G.Relis and  E.E.Cruz
               http://www.google.com.ph/imglanding?q=ladder&um=1&hl

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Introduction

   

             As a college student, you are expected to come up with a scholarly papers. In order for you to write an effective writing, you need to know the sequence of activities in writing process.

SEQUENCE OF ACTIVITIES IN WRITING PROCESS

• Planning
• Gathering Information 
• Drafting 
• Revising
• Editing

      These sequence of activities are just like a ladder that you need to follow step by step. 

          Planning is the first activity in the writing process. Under planning, are several preliminary activities. Brainstorm with a small group to enable you to explore different topics. As you brainstorm with your peers, jot down all the ideas given by everybody in the group. Do not reject nor discuss any idea. Give everyone the opportunity to suggest a possible topic for your writing task. The idea need not be expressed in English. Neither should you require your members to give only grammatically correct statements. In fact no explanation is necessary as each searches his or her brain for the possible topics. The process require as many ideas as the group can generate; thus, nobody should refrain from contributing an idea or a topic. Then, narrow down your choices to those topics which you and your group members believe you can effectively write about. Show your list to your professor to know which topics are most relevant or useful to you and your peers.

          Before you proceed to the next step, you must decide on your purpose.Whatever your purpose is, think of your target readers and anticipate their own purpose. It is important that your purpose should match the readers' desired purpose.

          During the pre-writing stage and before you even locate your sources, you must also ask yourself these questions:

              1. Will the information be beneficial to the readers?

              2. What do they already know about the topic?

          All the preliminary activities in planning serve as your guide in locating sources. The internet is a good source of summaries or digests of books and studies. Be sure to choose only the books, journals, and other references materials such as reading from the internet that can give you insights about your topic. Write the complete title of the books and journals you have chosen, names of the authors, titles of the articles, and publication data. All of these will be cited in your list of references or bibliography.If you lift a phrase, sentence, or a paragrah from any of your sources, you should not fail to cite this in the text and in your bibliography.

Example of a lifted sentence:

               Although one of the obvious characteristics of technical writing is its technical subject   
               matter, it would be very difficult to say precisely what a technical subject is (Mills,1981).

          After gathering information and before writing your first draft, you should cluster interrelated ideas first.As soon as you have written your draft, ask again yourself these questions:

               1. Is the purpose clear?

               2. Are the sentences coherent, logical, ad grammatically correct?

               3. Are the words understandable to the readers?

          When you are making a draft, at the same time you are also revising whatever you are writing.When you draft and revise, simply cross out the word or phrases that would like to change instead of using a liquid eraser because you might change your mind and revert to your first choice. The time you need to finish a draft depends on your content, your purpose and your reader.

          Have your draft be read and evaluated by your peers to take note of their comments and then write another draft. Another round of peer reading and evaluating should follow until you are satisfied with your final draft. You are now ready for the editing.

          These are the things that you need to consider in editing:

                

               1.spelling

               2. errors in grammar

               3. sentences that need to be reworded or rephrased to make them clearer and more effective

 

          Examine closely the edited work and write another draft incorporating all the corrections. Repeat the editing procedure until you are very much satisfied with your work. Remember that the rule is : EDIT UNTIL IT IS ALMOST PERFECT.

Here are some of the guide questions which you need to follow when you are in the process of writing:

       1. Do you have the possible topics for your writing task?

       2. Have you shown them to your professor?

       3. Have you selected any of those which you believe you can effectively write about?

       4. Have you decided on your purpose of writing?

       5. Are you sure your purpose matches the desire purpose of your reader?

       6. Are you sure that your information would be beneficial to the readers?

       7. Are you sure you tell them the things which they have not know yet?

       8. Have you gathered lots of information about your topic?

       9. Have you clustered the interrelated ideas? Then , its your time to make the first draft.

      10. Are you sure your purpose is very clear? your words are understandable? and your sentences are
           coherent, logical and grammatically correct?

      11. Have you let your draft read and evaluated by your peers? Then, take notes of their comments and
            write another draft which is better.

      12. Were you satisfied with your final draft? Then, its your time to edit your draft.

      13. Were you careful with the spelling, grammar and the sentence structure?

      14. Now, you have a very effective writing. You will find writing challenging and rewarding task.

IKAW NA NGA ANG HINAHANAP NG PUSO KO

By ; Angelita P. Oblianda
Unang araw sa pagpasok ni Glenda sa paaralang ito ng Osup Academy. Siya’y nasa ikaapat na taon na sa sekondarya. Nag-iisa siyang nakaupo malapit sa may kantina ng paaralan habang nakatanaw sa mga bago niyang ka kaklase na labas-masok sa gate at ang iba nama’y matiyagang nagwawalis.
Sa kabilang sulok ay makikita ang gym ng paaralan at may mga lalaking naglalaro ng basketbol. Sa upuan ng gym ay may isang matipunong lalaking nagdamit ng pambasketbol na wari’y pagod sa paglalaro pero kitang kita na ito’y masayang nakipagbiruan sa mga babaeng nakapalibot sa kanya.
Bigla niyang naalala ang lalaking kasing edad niya at naging ka kaklase niya noon. Ngumiti siya at kinilig sa kanyang nararamdaman noon na ngayo’y buhay na buhay pa rin. Pilit niyang itinago ang kanyang nararamdaman dahil nahihiya siya at baka pagtawanan lang siya pag nalaman na may pagtingin siya nito. Sa dami-dami nga namang babae sa buhay ni Troy ay hindi na maisip na siya’y bigyang pansin nito. Nais niyang kalimutan na ang nakaraan, ngunit hindi mapigilan ang pusong pilit na nagtatanong kung nasaan na ang lalaking bumihag sa kanyang pusong uhaw sa pag-ibig. Makikita pa kaya niya ito?
Nahinto ang kanyang magandang mala-panaginip nang tumunog na ang kampana para sa oras ng pagpasok. Lahat ay nagsipagpasok na sa kanya-kanyang klase nang biglang may nagtanong sa kanya na nanggagaling sa kanyang likuran.
“Excuse me miss, baguhan ka ba dito?”
Lumingon siya sa likod at nabigla siya sa kanyang nakita. Parang hindi siya handang makita ito ngayon sa ganitong sitwasyon. Pero sa kaloob-looban ng kanyang puso ay ubod ng sabik at saya na ito’y makita at makasamang muli.
“H-ha? Ah, oo.”
Tinanong siya ng lalaki kung bakit ito na nabigla nang siya’y makita ngunit itinanggi ni Glenda na siya’y nabigla. Ayaw niyang ipahalata na kilala niya ito. Nagmamadali siyang umalis sa kanyang kinatatayuan. At sa kanyang pagmamadali CR ang kanyang napasok.
“Miss ok ka lang? CR yang pinasok mo eh. Kung gusto mo ihatid na kita sa klase mo?”
Tumanggi siyang magpahatid sa kanyang klase. Kaya nauna na siyang lumakad. Matagal-tagal rin siyang naglakad dahil nasa pinakadulo ang kanyang classroom. Nang papasok na sana si Glenda ay nagtaka siya kung bakit sinundan pa rin siya ng lalaking ito. Yun pala magkaklase lang nila.
Hindi na siya kilala ni Troy dahil matagal na rin silang hindi nagkita at nagkasama. At isa pa, lalong pumuti at gumanda si Glenda ngayon. Mataas ang buhok at matuwid pa.
Ipinakilala si Glenda ng kanyang guro sa kanyang mga kaklase. Siya ay napilitang lumipat sa Osup Academy sa kalagitnaan ng taon dahil namatay ay ang kanyang ina at ditto siya pinaaral ng kanyang tiyuhin na may sariling bahay na malapit lang sa paaralan.
Araw-araw nalang niyang makikita si Troy na may mga babaeng kasama at ang lambing pa nila. Hanggang nagtagal lalong tumindi ang sakit na kanyang nararamdaman. Tuluyan na kaya siyang mahuhulog kay Troy?
Inis at may halong selos nalang araw-araw ang makukuha niya sa lalaking ito. Ni hindi nga siya pinansin na nito. Umasa siya na baling araw ay mapansin rin siya at mararamdaman rin ni Troy ang kung ano ang nararamdaman niya ngayon.
Lalong nawalan na siya ng pag-asa nang makita niya si Jessica at Troy na malambing na nagsisimba. Si Jessica ay isa sa mga naging kaklase niya na palaging kasama sa mga babaeng buntot ng buntot kay Troy.
Isang araw habang naglalakad si Glenda sa paaralan ay nakasalubong niya si Troy na nakangiti kaya binigyan niya rin ito ng matatamis na ngiti. Nararamdaman niya ang sayang umaabot hanggang langit. Sabik na siyang makipagkaibigan kay Troy o kaya’y makipagdate sa kanya kahit kailan. Kung sakaling siyang anyayahan nito, buong puso at walang dudang tanggapin niya ang alok na makipagdate.
Ngunit nadedepressed siya nang dinaanan lang siya nito, yon pala ang mga babaeng nasa likuran niya ang kanyang kinawayan. At may halikan pang nagaganap nang siya ay lumingon sa likod.
Palagi nalang nag-iisa at malungkot si Glenda mula ng lumipat siya sa pag-aaral. Lalong lalo na ngayong darating na ang araw ng mga puso hindi niya alam kung sino ang ka escort niya sa kanilang JS Prom. Nakakalungkot isipin ni isang lalaking pwede niyang ikapartner, wala siyang maisip.
Sa klase nag-uusap sila at nagkasunduan kung sino ang kani-kanilang partner. Marami sana ang gustong makipagpartner kay Troy kaya lang isa lamang ang pwedeng maging partner. At siya ang pinagpalang si Jessica. Nagselos na naman si Glenda dahil bukod siya’y pinagpalang maging partner ni Troy, bukod tangi pa ang kagandahang taglay nito.
Dumating na ang araw na pinakahihintay ng lahat. Ang araw ng mga puso. Ang lahat ay nakabihis nang maayos at talagang napakabongga ang dating. Hindi nasasabik si Glenda na maisuot ang kanyang kulay pink na tube na gown at ternong sandal dahil wala nga siyang partner at nakasisiguro siyang magmumukhang sisiw na iniwanan ng inahing manok. Alang-alang sa kasiyahan ng lahat, tumuloy siya sa pagdalo ng kanilang JS Prom.
Nasa pinakasulok na mesa si Glenda, nag-iisang nakaupo ni walang makausap. Maya maya’y sinimulan na ang nasabing okasyon. Si Jessica ay tumuntong na sa entablado’t bumati sa lahat ng mga estudyanteng dumalo. Marami siyang mga bagay na sinasabi na marapat na ginagawa ng isang aktibong president ng buong grupo ng estudyante. Bilang isang lider, karangalan niyang mangulo sa okasyong ito. Siya ang binilin ng kanyang guro na mamahala sa buong estudyanteng kasali sa JS Prom. Dahil dito may mahalagang ianunsyo si Jessica sa lahat ng dumalo.
Biglang tumahimik ang lahat upang making sa sasabihin. Ayon sa kanya may tatanghalin silang king and queen of hearts at kailangan na ang mga dumalo mismo ang pipili kung sino ang matatanghal. Lahat ay nagsisigawan at pangalan ni Troy ang kanilang isinisigaw.
Si Troy naman ay parang nasa langit dahil ubod nang saya ang kanyang nararamdaman. Ang dami palang humanga sa kanyang kamatsuhan na mala-Gerald Anderson. Ang suot niyang black slacks with polo at black shoes na napakakinis ay parang naging attorney ang dating.
Nagsimula na magsalita ang mukhang artista at feeling artista na si Troy. Nagawa pa nitong magflirt sa mga babae pero bumalik din ito sa seryosong mukha.
Sa ginawa ni Troy ay napaligaya naman niya si Glenda. Ngayon palang niya nakita si Troy na marunong din palang magseryoso. Kahit nasa sulok na bahagi siya ng hotel ay dinig na dinig pa rin niya ang boses ni Troy na buong-buo at boses na parang isang tunay na lalaki. Sa likod ng babaerong mukha , may malaking ipinagbago na rin pala ang lalaking ito.
Napatigil si Glenda sa kanyang pag-iisip ng kung anu-ano sa lalaking ito, nang biglang magsalita si Troy na kailangan na niyang pumili ng magiging Queen.
Nais niyang ianunsyo sa lahat na kung maaari ay pahintulutan siyang makapartner ang kanyang pinakamamahal na babae. Ang babaeng malapit sa kanyang puso. Sa kasiyahan at kalungkutan siya ay karamay. Siya ay walang iba kundi ang kanyang pinsan, na para na ring syota niya kung sila’y magkasama, si Jessica.
Nandilat ang mata ni Glenda nang malaman niya na pinsan pala niya si Jessica. Parang lumuwag ang kanyang pakiramdam. Parang gusto niyang sumigaw na “thank you Lord”, ngunit pinigilan niya ang kanyang sarili dahil ayaw niyang mahalata ito. Conservative pa rin siya kahit papaano. Parang may pag-asa pa siyang mapansin nito. Di bale nalang walang partner ngayon, si Jessica naman talaga ang pwede niyang maging partner, kontento na rin siyang malaman na walang namagitan nina Troy at Jessica.
Ngumiti si Jessica sa sinabi ni Troy. Alam niyang mahal siya ng kanyang pinsan. Bata palang sila ay magkasabay na silang lumaki at nag-aral. Kaya hanggang ngayon ay para silang magkabarkada. Nagsimula ng magsalita si Jessica sa pinakaimportanteng bagay na nais malaman ng lahat. Nais ni Troy na ang kanyang pinsan na ang bahalang mag-anunsyo sa maaaring ikamangha ng lahat. Dahil gusto ni Jessica na ang babaeng maging partner ni Troy ay yong deserving para sa kanya, kaya siya na ang pumili nito.
“Parang maging pantay , gusto kong ipaalam na hindi ako ang magiging queen, kundi ang babaeng dumalo dito na walang partner. Siguro naman ito ikamangha ninyo. Gusto ko lang na maging masaya ang aking pinsan sa araw na ito sa piling ng babaeng matagal na niyang mahal ngunit di niya magawang sabihin dahil hindi pa siya sigurado noon kung ito nga ba ay nararapat sa kanya. Ngunit ngayon sigurado na siya, na ito ang unang babaeng maaari niyang ligawan, ngayong nanadito na siya, nagmaang-maangan pa siyang hindi niya kilala. Pero sadyang mapagbiro ang tadhana.”
Muling nalungkot si Glenda sa narinig. Ibig sabihin NGSB si Troy. Kung sakaling makapili na siya ng babaeng nararapat sa kanya, tuluyan na mawalan ng saysay ang buhay ni Glenda.
Nagpatuloy sa pagsasalita si Jessica,”Ito walang iba kundi ang babaeng nakaupo sa may pinakasulok na bahagi ng room na ito.”
Ang mga dumalo ay sabay na lumingon kay Glenda. Lumingon lingon si Glenda sa pag-aakalang hindi siya ang tinatanaw ng mga tao. Naginginig siya at umiiyak . Hindi siya makapaniwala. Dahil alam niyang siya ang tinitukoy ni Jessica. Biglang pinatay ang ilaw at ang tanging nakabukas ay ang mala-lenteng ilaw na pagala-gala. Ang ilaw ay nakatuon kay Glenda na lalong gumanda sa suot niyang may kumikinang-kinang dala ng inilagay na sequence. Ineiskort siya ni Troy papuntang entablado. Pinatugtog ang kantang ”IKAW NA NGA” at isinayaw niya si Glenda. Dito nagsimula ang kanilang masarap at walang hanggan na pag-iibigan. At sa wakas, ang nooy mga panaginip lamang ay nagiging totoo lahat. Hindi halos makapaniwala si Glenda sa nangyari. Dito pala hahantong ang tinatawag na destiny at sa puntong ito, nilubos-lubos niya ang pagkakataong makayakap nang mahigpit ang lalaking matagal na niyang inaasam na may pagtingin rin pala sa kanya.

TO ATTAIN TRUE KNOWLEDGE: TO EXPERIENCE IS THE BEST

BY Angelita P. Oblianda

In the perspective of Ora’a, “to learn is to experience”, is a good principle that a student must be remembered and be aware of. As what many had said that experience is the best teacher.

            Many students would rather use the constructivist theory since this is the easiest and the most commonly used by many highly intellectual people. It needs a lot of experiences for a person to be considered as knowledgeable. One could come up a well-organized data if he had a lot of learnings and would be able to construct a new concept or idea out of the old ones. It was also found out that if the students are given the chance to formulate their own concept which is more acceptable to their part, their motivation to learn is enhanced because they feel the freedom to say whatever they wanted to share according to their individual experiences. So there would be less effort and sweat-free happened because the new knowledge is build with the help of the past experiences which are just put together forming a genuine work. This prior knowledge is what we call the schema.

            It is easy for the learners to relate the topic if he already had the reservoir of knowledge. He just has to recall his past knowledge and connect to the present knowledge. Just like having experimentation on the heated water. After you heated the 10 ml of water in a test tube for about 20 seconds, it would disappear. You could witness the water that is slowly disappearing in the test tube due to the heat that comes from the Bunsen burner. In this case, you would not anymore wonder why the water in the canal lost after having a hot weather. So you could make a conclusion that the water upon heating, creates moist that would turn to gas resulting to what we call evaporation.

            This is how constructivist theory was done. The best learning took place when you experience a lot and come up with a new and highly intellectual conclusion based from the past knowledge and experiences.