CHAPTER 4 |
JUNIOR RESEARCHER PROGRAMME |
SJI LITERARY FESTIVAL WEEK |
LEARNING BEYOND THE CLASSROOM |
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The JRP booth and displays of research posters during Open House |
The Junior Researcher Programme is designed to teach students aged 13 to 14 how to effectively conduct research , a skill that not only benefits them academically but also equips them with essential life tools . In the programme , they learn how to inquire , explore , and develop a lifelong curiosity about the world around them . |
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Research is more than gathering facts — it ’ s about asking questions , seeking out reliable sources , and drawing meaningful conclusions . It encourages critical thinking , hones problem-solving abilities , and enables students to approach challenges methodically , extending far beyond the classroom . Research nurtures independence , as students take responsibility for their learning . It promotes perseverance , as they may encounter roadblocks that require creative solutions . Students also develop communication skills , learning to articulate their thoughts with clarity and confidence .
This year , the programme was conducted as a two-day workshop , in collaboration with the National Library Board ( NLB ). NLB shared the use of resources in the library for academic research and aspects of generative A . I . At the end of the two-day workshop , students presented their research study in the form of research posters .
During this year ’ s Open House , students had the opportunity to showcase their research abilities and present research posters on their topic of interest . The research topics ranged from the effects of peer pressure , related to different social strata and how cultural and racial differences play a part in school life , and many more . The results from these research projects gave students a voice and generated valuable insights to students ’ research projects for the school management , teachers , student population and even parents . Many parents were impressed by the quality and level of research conducted by lower secondary students .
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The Junior Researcher Programme is more than just an academic exercise . It teaches students how to approach learning as a journey of inquiry and exploration . It gives them the tools to question , to discover , and to be informed , critical thinkers . In a world that constantly evolves , the ability to research effectively will help our students adapt , innovate , and thrive . The journey starts here , but the impact will last a lifetime .
“ Research is formalised curiosity . It is poking and prying with a purpose .” - Zora Neale Hurston
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Teachers brainstorming on research questions from a given topic during the JRP teachers workshop
Year 2 students sharing their JRP research experience to P6 parents and students during Open House
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Storyteller at Connections Conclave
The SJI Literary Week Festival , organised by the FPAM English Language and Literature Department , was a vibrant celebration themed “ Connections ,” emphasising the unity within our Josephian community through a series of engaging literary activities .
At the heart of the festival stood the captivating “ Tree of Wisdom ,” a sculpture by Br Joseph McNally , adorned with book covers of favourite reads from both students and teachers . Inaugurated by Principal Mr Justin Arul Pierre , this installation visually represented the community ’ s shared literary passions . Students also showcased their creativity by presenting original poems , adding a personal touch to the celebration .
One of the highlights was “ Whispers of Wisdom ,” where inspirational quotes were collected and shared with the entire school via an email blast , inspiring reflection and motivation . The Parent Support Group ( PSG ) contributed by supporting a bookmark-making activity in the library , encouraging students to personalise and share their favourite quotes . The library also featured a themed book display , further enhancing the literary atmosphere .
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The festival saw Year 1 and 2 students enthusiastically participating in a lively literary quiz . Year 2 students also benefited from a talk on persuasive writing delivered by Mrs Cherie Tseng , and SJI parent and COO , Secur Solutions Group , and a commentator / op-ed writer for CNA . |
Tree of Wisdom
The grand finale of the week was the “ Connections Conclave ,” where students and teachers came together to deliver a series of captivating performances , rounding off a week of literary celebration that truly reflected the spirit of connection within the Josephian community .
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