Wednesday, June 8, 2016

Saying "Farewell" at the Blog (Extra Credit of 5%; Optional Assignment)

Say goodbye in any way that feels right to you. Write no more than 200 words. Use one or more paragraphs as you wish. Poems are fine, also!

 Remember that these will be the last words published at the blog, which will remain online as a tribute to the hard work of many students past and present at the Pearson ALC. Please finish your work no later than Monday, June 13 if you wish me to include it in your final mark. I will add your score out of 5 to my spreadsheet result. You can expect my final comment there as well before June 17.

26 comments:

Sandy said...

End of a Chapter Note

Life is the only way
to be joyful and free,
feel the sunshine and breeze,
Live every moment;

to be a student,
or become an adventurer

to tell struggle
for everything it's not;

to keep on going,
end a journey,
to find the value of education.

A wonderful moment
to remember for a second
all the noble teachers
who gave me a second chance;

and if only once
to give up on learning ,
end up missing out on life's most powerful weapon,

lose interest in your school;
or to stick through it all with a purpose;
and to keep on fighting for
something important.

Unknown said...

It seems like time has gone by so fast, yet at the beginning of the course it felt like June was a long way off! Now it is time: time to say goodbye to classmates teachers and homework. When I first began the English 12 course I knew it would be challenging but I did not expect to benefit from it as much as I have. Brad has been a very patient and knowledgeable teacher and I feel very lucky to have gotten the chance to be in his class. He has, in a short 5 months, not only taught me how to write better but also shown me that things like silent films or poetry are not as boring as they seem. So even though we have to say goodbye physically, mentally we never will as the memories will always be with us.

Unknown said...

Time flies so fast, and now is the time to say good bye—good bye to my teacher, my classmates. First, I truly thank to my patient and enthusiastic teacher, Brad. I really enjoyed your classes honestly. You taught us valuable lessons: how to use persuasion effectively, how to write successfully in difference ways, how to make a presentation more attractive. Other than that, the most meaningful thing for me was to find an interest in learning English and Literature. Also, you encouraged us to believe in ourselves, be more creative, get out of our comfort zones and challenge ourselves to see what we can do. In your class, besides learning English, we have a chance to look at life in different views through useful videos and films. Being a student in your last class is my honor and luckiness. I am really appreciated what you did for me and our classmates. I hope that you will have a wonderful and enjoyable life after retirement. It’s the time for you to do whatever you want to do and try the new things because you deserve it. I also want to thank to all of my classmates who helped me improve a lot. Without you, I can’t make this far. Finally, Good luck to all of you in the final exam as well as your future.

Anonymous said...

English12 is challenging, but I could keep taking course because of many poeple's help. At the begining of the class, I had difficulties to follow the direction of activities, but teacher and students helped me when I asked for it. I was thankful to them, but on the other hand, I felt sorry to bother them. Writing a "here I am" poem was fun to do. I couldn't help to show my life style in the poem. However, the hard thing in poem work activities was to listen everyone's presentations and to chose the poem that I liked. I was not good at following to the speach, so that made the problem worse. Fortunately, I could write a reaction paragraph by referring blog. The most difficult thing was understanding literature. I had bad habit of thinking indulgently. For examples, when I read bed time story, I misunderstood that the mother was devoting herself without complaintment, but truth was that she is tired of waking up in the night to take care of her baby. Therefore, next time, I should tried more to think logically for good understaning when I read literatures. As I took this course, I was glad to meet everyone and to know about myself.

Unknown said...

A Note for Good-bye

Life is the only way
to have good-bye moments,
hold on good memories,
Promise meets again;

to be a handkerchief,
or embrace its sadness;

to be happy
for every chapter in life;

to cherish the moments,
we shared our frustration,
from each one’s heart to another.

A wonderful moment
to appreciate our class
we laughed together
for our silly mistakes on our writings;

and if only once
to receive the Nm mark,
end up focusing hard to rewrite,

doubt my learning journey;
and to wonder on my way to move;
but to keep promise till we meet again
something important.

Unknown said...

A Goodbye Note

Life is the only way
to say goodbye to Teacher Brad,
know the good times I have,
be with groups;

to learn new English lessons,
or watch Chinese drama;

to share adventures
fill with bright moments;

to pack away all knowledge,
make a conclusion,
to look forward and find treasures for tomorrow.

A special moment
to remember all the details
that learned here
in the sunny days or sparkling nights;

and if only once
to give up after a bad sleep,
end up with waking myself up with a black coffee,

give me a new goal;
and to know that I will succeed with all my heart;
and to keep on learning
something important.

-English 12 student; June, 2016

Pavi said...

New Beginnings (an acrostic poem)

The time has passed by real fast, from
Here I Am” in front of the class to
A Note” which brings us to the end,
New beginnings with brand new friends.
Knowledge you have bestowed upon us
Young minds now set free — thus
Our hearts are forever in your favor.
Unable to write any more papers.
Beat black and blue, school’s finally done.
Retirement waits, now have some fun!
As your final class, here’s all we ask,
Dream right on and don’t forget us Brad!

Unknown said...

It is so sad to say good bye since we will finish our class next week. It is also Teacher Brad's last lecture. That makes me remember the famous article "Last Lecture," which was written by Daudet, a French writer. Although we are in so different circumstance, I still feel sentimental. I am fortunate to be a student of Brad's last term in his teaching career. At this moment, I thought back when I first saw Brad, he seemed to be gentle and serious. I was disappointed at beginning because of many difficulties. But I didn't want to dawdle away in his class. Then I had to focus on overcoming every frustration which I encountered. Actually, I am satisfied to get improvement in my English comprehension from the value of his unique teaching method. In my first assignment, I wrote,"I really expect to see the miracle which Brad will bring us in his final year as a teacher in PALC." Eventually, I have achieved tremendous benefits with his help. He is a respectful and memorable teacher. At the time of farewell, I sincerely wish our admired Teacher Brad much happiness, and thank you so much.

Shail said...

In the blink of an eye, this class has come to an end. To be honest, in the beginning I wasn't looking forward to it. English 12 was just a mark I needed to improve to get into my desired college program. But this class became so much more. I started to look forward to every Wednesday and Friday. To see my classmates and hear different opinions during our group discussions. It takes a great teacher to maintain such a welcoming environment, and Brad did just that. He helped me discover what I am truly capable of, and I'm confident that I will be successful future English classes. This is a final goodbye as well as a thank you because although this experience is merely a stepping stone in my journey to complete my education, it will be something I will always remember. The laughs I had with my groups and veering off of the task at hand, the feeling of accomplishment when I finished an assignment, and the smiles that seemed to never fade will be a few things that will stay with me. I wish everyone health, happiness and success in the future goodbye for now!



-198 words

Unknown said...

Farewell does not mean goodbye, it is the start of another chapter. Cheers to a wonderful memories that we all put together. The most memorable one for me are the two presentation of poems, “ Here I Am” and “ A Note”. Everyone had a chance to participate and we were able to know each other through this poems. I would like to take this opportunity to thank Teacher Brad for teaching us English 12 and inspired us to continue to study to pursue the careers that we dream of. The hardship that we encountered in doing homework and activities was paid off with pride and joy. I don't want to say Goodbye, I'd rather say Goodluck. Goodluck to all my classmates. I'm sure we will cross our path again and I wish you all the best on your chosen careers. To Brad, Goodluck on your retirement, relax and enjoy life.

Goodluck to all of us. Cheers!

mahbooba said...


Good bye class
It is difficult for me to say good bye to respected teacher Mr. Brad and all my classmates. Honestly, thanks from Mr. Brad which he gives us the opportunity to learn different way of English writing. We really enjoyed from watching of the silent movies; we work together in the class to solve our problems. Before, I joint this class, I was worry, how to continue because I had no time. On that time, I thought the lessons would be so difficult, but teacher Brad managed the assignments time so nicely, that we didn’t face any difficulties. For example, he gave us the narrative essay assignment during the spring break; otherwise, it was so hard for us to write it in a short period of time. Yesterday after the exam, I saw all my classmates outside of the class; we talked about the college and continuing education. Now, all of us know each other. We never felt stranger in the class. Also, I feel lucky that I get chance to be a student in the last class of teacher Brad. At the end, inevitably, I have to say good bye and I hope happy long life to our honorable teacher and all my classmates.

safoura said...

It is never easy to say goodbye to people who I have learned and interacted for months, but it is time to move on for a better tomorrow. In this class, I had the opportunity to study alongside classmates whose feedbacks and good works encouraged me to improve my writing and personal skills through the group works. Besides, having Brad as my mentor has taught me many things and made me try harder to meet his desired quality of writing. Walking all the way from Burnaby to this school on rainy, snowy, and cold days, I only had one goal in my mind: to succeed and learn in this class. I am extremely happy to finally be able to reach my academic aspires by passing this course and become a person of my dream world. Good teachers with kind hearts are scarce and I’m pleased I have been a student of one of them, Brad. I wish you a very good retirement and thank you for everything you did to educate us. also, I wish my classmates happy lives filled with prosperity and happiness. I don’t say goodbye because I believe that one day, somewhere I will see you as this world is very small.

Amy R. said...

A Blissful Adieu

A bittersweet moment has come, I’m so grateful to my teacher Brad and to my multicultural classmates who made my four months a very meaningful school time. I will surely miss the laughter’s and the feeling of, “looking forward for Wednesdays and Fridays.” My favourite moment was our group discussion because it’s not only learning from the lesson, but I also had the opportunity to bond with a diverse crowd. Whenever I’m reading the feedbacks in my homework or tests, it made me grow and appreciate studying again.

It seemed hard at first, but my instant thought was, “I would stay no matter what.” I love this class so much because it’s where I learn how to sacrifice (less wanderlust), prioritize (good class attendance) and re-focus (no more procrastination) to have a career in Canada. Whenever Brad mentions his family member, as an example of whatever, it made his class homey. In English 12, I have developed the courage to put my thoughts and feelings into writing; I can finally document all my life’s adventure. After all, this is a happy good-bye, knowing that I’m heading to a new beginning. Thank you and may you have an exciting retirement Brad!

200 words.

Unknown said...

Farewell

The first time I felt the sadness of saying goodbye when I was 8 years old. After then, many goodbyes (not greeting) have been following. Most of the goodbyes accompanied with sadness. Very soon, another goodbye will come to all classmates and teacher in English 12. I sigh, “time is flying.” Once we start something, there must be an ending. “Goodbye” is the word that we use as much as “welcome.” We like “welcome” and hate “goodbye,” even through we know something might be better after. When we come to this world, it says “welcome.” Sooner or later, a “goodbye” might be the last word. “Goodbye” has always swallowed “welcome” and brought us sadness. “Goodbye” acts like “the end,” which against our desire for everlasting. But, in Chinese, “goodbye” means “see you again;” and in English, “goodbye” comes from “God be with ye.” I think they are pretty true. When we say “goodbye” to end one thing -don't be sad, another “welcome” is waiting for us. Even for death, the last word might not be “goodbye,” and it would be “welcome” in a different world. Anyhow, let's say “see you again” or “God be with you” instead of “goodbye.”
(200 Words)

Unknown said...

When I looked back in the first day of English 12 course at PALC, I vividly remembered that how much I was nervous, worried finishing this course and possibility to pass. Right now, almost at the end of the course, my heart filled with fulfillment of my progress, excitement of finishing the course, and appreciation to teacher Brad and all my classmates. They made me not only improve my English, but also change my mind that truly could listen other people’s thought and opinion and accept it. Although every class had a difficult time and heavy pressure, it was my happiest and most unforgettable time in Canada. I am sorry to have to say goodbye, but it will make us a new beginning not the end. I already missed all my time in the class which watched together the silent movie with tear, discussed in group, two impressive presentations of poem, and even short stories, too. I really appreciate keenly teacher Brad and all my classmates.

Unknown said...

THE BEGINNING OF A NEW CHAPTER

The end,
of anticipate four months,
Has arrived,
to bid goodbye,
to Mr. Brad and my classmates,
for every ending has a new beginning.


Excited to finish the race,
But, sad to part ways
for your departure will leave,
a scar inside my soul,
because it’s hard,
to say goodbye.

It was a pleasure,
to work together,
for your courage and devotion,
provided great motivation,
for me to enjoy the ride,
even when faced with difficulties.

To Mr. Brad,
as you explore;
a new future,
For you deserve it,
I wish you enjoy every bits of it.

And never to forget,
It was a privilege,
to be taught by you,
for you have planted a seed,
that will never retire.

To you my classmates,
before I put the pen down,
I wish you all, a prosperous future
And remember, never to fear any challenging transition,
for the moment has come,
to happily say GOODBYE.

162 words NANCY NGUMO

Unknown said...

After this day,
we goes in separate way
we learn a lot from beginning until last day
let’s celebrate this Brad’s day.

We are lucky to be with your class
because this is also your last
The journey is just started
this start will never be forget.

All the fails we face
encouragement we embrace
there’s so many things to be learn
thanks to you my dear teacher.

This would be my last
but this will not end here.
I learned so many things like a million stars
that light up my way to success.

I made this poem not just saying goodbye but the start for our friendship. Thank you for all the things that you shared with us especially about your family. I just didn't learned about english but also about life. We are thankful as your last students on your last profession being teacher.
-152 words

Unknown said...

Before saying farewell to all, I would like to say thanks to our honorable teacher Brad and my adorable classmates for helping me have such a wonderful semester. In this four-month class, I can say that my English had improved a lot especially with my writing part. Brad’s unique style of teaching makes our class interesting and memorable. I still remember my first day of class how badly nervous I was, but my classmates made me comfortable and at ease. I am really going to miss all classmates, it is unhappy and sorrowful to say “good bye”, but it is time to depart and move forward for a better future. I must say the “silent film” by Charlie Chaplin was the most memorable for me, since then I started watching his more film, so I am personally thankful to Brad for the film. I am so fortunate to be his student and I was sad to know that this is his last class in PALC, but I wish him a happy and wonderful retirement life. Finally, I wish all my classmates a delightful and prosperous life ahead and I hope to see you all in the future.
200 words

Unknown said...

Sarjeevan Kaur
Saying “Farewell”
My English Grade 12 is the best class. It is like a movie. Full with internment. Some scenes are funny. Some are sad and some of those are full with stress. In the beginning of class, it was challenging for me. Some assignments are too hard, the marks become us sad. Besides this, Watched the movies in the class dies us with laughter. Silent movies make a too much noise in our mind. My teacher turns our study into internment, for the reason we are not just do it, we also enjoyed it. Presentation have us opportunity to provide our self as a professional. I couldn’t believe on myself when time is going so fast. I tried to play all role, but unfortunately I missed one because of my sickness. I had no words to say thanks to my classmate who help me a lot's in every movement without feel any jealous. My teacher Brad teaches us a lots of new things which helps us in present and in the future as well. Now it’s the hardest part to say goodbye to my class with a little hope we will meet in the future.
Words 198

Unknown said...

More Than English

I entered into the classroom
with anticipation to learn English
and met with classmates
with heart full of anguish

I saw you coming into
the full of curious minds
and into my heart
where my fear hinds

I listened and attended
to your profound passion
for teaching the beauty of English
to a student like me from faraway nation

I learned and grew
in reading and writing
and exposed myself
to the deep understanding

I saw you coming
into my life with beamish
wakening my soul
to learn more than English



Unknown said...

Say Goodbye
It’s hard to believe that this semester is finishing this week and it will be hard to say goodbye to teacher Brad and all my classmates. I remember the first day in English 12 class; I was very worried about being able to complete this course because I heard from many other students about how difficult it is. After I studied in this class, it wasn’t as hard as I thought. I think I was very lucky to have had teacher Brad teaching me this semester. He taught me how to write good poems, how to tell a great story, and how to present in front of the class. I love the “Writing Good English” handout which taught me “Simple is good.” This saying will apply not only to my writing but also to my life style. I would like to thank you teacher Brad for teaching me this semester. Also, I would like to thank all of my classmates who helped me improve my English by giving me feedback. I wish teacher Brad has a great retirement. Also, I hope all of my classmates will reach their goals and be successful.
---195 words---

Unknown said...

A Beautiful Journey

Almost two years ago, when I first came to PALC for registration, the first teacher I met was Mr. Brad Hyde. I haven't met him again until this year, when, at the beginning of the semester, registering for English 12, I found out that he was going to be my teacher. Excited and a little bit fearful too I started English 12 expecting to be difficult. It hasn't been easy but it has been an unexpected wonderful experience. I enjoyed every hour, every assignment and even every test (and I usually hate tests). Time flew by very fast and now, when the course is almost over, I know I will miss it. I will miss the group discussions with my colleagues, the in-class presentations, the poetry and the most of all, teacher Brad's comments on my assignments. He encouraged me and gave me confidence in myself, especially that I am pretty new here in Canada and everything is still new and difficult for me.
So, Thank you, guys for being my colleagues, I learned a lot from your experiences and
Thank you, teacher Brad for this beautiful journey named English 12 !
(191 words)

Mei Luo said...

A Farewell Note

Life is the only way
to meet the farewell often,
wave our hands in a complex mood,
say good-bye;

to be friends,
or forget each other completely;

to know all good things
come to the end;

to learn the second language,
upgrade the knowledge,
to struggle for our better future.

An unforgettable moment
to remain the happiness
in all classmates’ memories
with pure friendship;

and if only once
to remember the respected teacher,
think about his words and his laughter,

forget the sadness of leaving;
and to give all the best wishes to everyone;
and to believe in seeing you again
somewhere else.

Ian R said...

Wow; finally, we made it! It's been a tough few months, but I guess all our hard work paid-off. First of, I'd like to thank God for this wonderful, and challenging journey. Honestly, on the first day of class I was really anxious because I thought that I would withdraw from the course early, thinking ahead of myself that I was not capable of the grade level. But the enthusiasm and eagerness of my fellow students gave me a big boost of encouragement, especially when it came down to the presentations. And of course, to my man, Brad! Thank you for bringing out the best in me, and helping me get closer to achieving one of my goals. I won't be forgetting you anytime soon for you are such an influential mentor and above all, an awesome teacher! Congrats on your retirement and good luck on all your endeavours because you deserve it. Lastly, good luck to all the students and thank you for making the class such a blast!

Unknown said...

Farewell

This is my last “homework” for English class in PALC with teacher Brad. I watch carefully for any error I may make because I would not get any correction from him. I try to recall all the skills I have learned in the past because I would not be able to learn again from his class. I comb through my English learning for every aspect he taught, only to find that he had ignited my autonomy to immerse into self-awakening with understanding. Thinking of my original motivation to learn English 12, I tried to gain a considerable insight in English to better relate to my children’s thoughts. Thanks to the guide from teacher Brad, I am able to observe how the characters deal with conflicts in a story, to appreciate the wisdom of many mentors from their lectures, and to perceive many different perspectives to the same article. I shared all topics with my ten years old daughter. Taken in this sense, Brad is also my daughter’s offline teacher. I am glad to have a farewell party for his retirement, and wish to have another party for him when he is 70, 90,100 years old, and beyond. I wish our classmates to meet in the parties.

Unknown said...

Goodbye

It is all over. I can’t believe the course is already over. I actually made it to the finish line. This past 4 months I came to this class thinking “What am I going to learn today?” It wasn’t just learning how to write, read, and present, Brad was teaching more than that. He has shown me a different looks on life by having to group work and hearing what my other classmates were thinking. (Especially with our class being diverse) I just want to thank Brad for being a great teacher and not making English 12 dreadful like how other teachers might have. I also want to thank all my classmates for sharing your stories and making this class memorable. For Brad I wish the best for you and hope that you really enjoy your retirement. Once again thank you for having me as one of your students of your last class to teach. To all my classmates I hope that all of you guys accomplish the goals and dreams that you guys have may planned out for yourself. Take care and farewell everybody.

185