Latest news with #SnakesandLadders
The Sun
5 days ago
- General
- The Sun
Learning maths through play and daily life
THERE was a time when numbers were more than just symbols on exam papers or exercises on worksheets. Mathematics revealed itself naturally during childhood play while we measured ingredients in the kitchen or counted shells on the beach. Over time, this joy has been replaced by pressure from exams, tuition sessions and tightly packed academic schedules. Today, school holidays often resemble extensions of the school term. Many students spend their breaks in additional classes, remedial lessons and revision classes. Concerned about academic progress, families enrol children in continuous tuition with the aim of addressing learning gaps before the next term begins. However, children are not machines in need of constant adjustments. They are curious learners who thrive when given opportunities to explore their surroundings. Some of the most meaningful mathematical understandings can emerge outside the classroom, particularly when there is freedom to experiment and play. The holiday period offers a valuable opportunity to reconnect with mathematics in ways that are enjoyable, practical and imaginative. Mathematical thinking exists in many parts of daily life. Games such as dominos promote counting, pattern recognition and strategic thinking. Traditional activities like congkak or card sorting can improve number sense in ways that feel natural rather than like formal lessons. Even classic board games such as Snakes and Ladders or Monopoly can provide insights into probability, mental calculation and decision-making. The kitchen is another space where mathematics can come alive. Cooking involves multiplying, dividing and converting measurements, all within a meaningful context. Planning a family trip can lead to discussions about distance, time, budgeting and resource management. These everyday tasks allow children to apply mathematics without pressure, helping them to see the subject as a useful and relevant tool. For students who find mathematics difficult or intimidating, these experiences can be transformative. When numbers are part of a game, a recipe or a journey plan, the focus shifts from memorisation to problem-solving. Understanding grows and the anxiety often associated with the subject begins to ease. This does not mean that all structures must be removed. For those who prefer some continuity, light learning can still be part of the holiday routine. Short engaging challenges or mathematics journals focused on holiday themes can be both fun and educational. Educational websites and mobile applications now offer puzzles that reward creativity and logic rather than speed and repetition. It is important to remember that rest is also a vital part of learning. Just as athletes perform better after recovery periods, students benefit from breaks that allow them to return refreshed and ready to learn. This is particularly true for those who struggle with mathematics during the school term. Rest and play can help rebuild confidence while constant drilling may lead to burnout and discouragement. School holidays do not need to become unstructured or unproductive. They can become an opportunity to show children that mathematics exists all around them. With a bit of intention, families can incorporate mathematics into shared activities without turning them into lessons. Counting ingredients, keeping score in games, measuring distances or telling stories with numbers can all contribute to deeper understanding in a relaxed environment. The classroom will always be there. Academic learning will resume in due course. In the meantime, the school holiday can serve as a reminder that mathematics is not limited to textbooks or test scores. It is present in everyday decisions, joyful discoveries and playful moments. Bringing back the joy of numbers does not require special equipment or advanced knowledge. It requires time, attention and a willingness to see the world through a mathematical lens. This holiday, help children rediscover that learning can be both meaningful and enjoyable.
Calgary Herald
25-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Calgary Herald
How has year of the snake treated you? Updated horoscopes for the last half of 2025
The halfway mark of 2025 approaches. In this, the Year of the Snake, has luck been shining down upon you, or have clouds of gloom been darkening your days? For many people, it's been a bit of both. Article content Article content Some horoscope specialists liken the year to a game of Snakes and Ladders. Some days land you in a place that propels your fortunes upwards. On other days, you're stopped on a slithering path that takes you a few steps back. Article content Article content General predictions for the year certainly noted there were good days ahead for many in 2025, especially for people seeking transformation, wisdom, creativity and calmness. But the underbelly of the year of the snake reveals hidden problems for 2025, including increased stress and conflict. Article content Article content Singer Beyonce, for example, was born in a year of the rooster. Horoscope predictions for roosters note that people born in these years understand the importance of hard work and that their hard work would pay off in 2025. Beyonce, of course, is known for a strong work ethic, along with her talent. She'd been nominated five times for the Grammy award for album of the year, but it was 2025 when she finally took home this top prize. Article content Article content Article content For those born in years of the pig, such as Elon Musk, horoscope predictions indicated ample rewards could be coming their way. That certainly seemed to be the case at the start of the year when U.S. president Donald Trump appointed Musk a senior advisor. However, those rewards also came with a warning: Be careful of anything that seems too good to be true. Article content People born in a year of snake were predicted to have the ability in 2025 to turn around any bad luck that came their way. Case in point? Golfer Rory McIlroy had gone 10 years without winning a major tournament, but earlier this year he captured the 2025 Masters Tournament for the first time and finally completed his long-sought-after grand slam (a win in each of golf's four major championships.) Article content One more example of this year's predictions coming to fruition may be seen with Steven Spielberg, who was born in a year of the dog. These folks are described as loyal, loving and smart and it was predicted that dogs would receive great praise in 2025 for years of excellent work. For Spielberg, film fans and critics alike are heaping new praise on Spielberg for one of his early successes — Jaws. The movie is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year and the entertainment world is abuzz thanks to a special release of the movie, a prestigious exhibit and anniversary celebrations in locations across North America.
Hype Malaysia
16-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Hype Malaysia
RM500,000 Cash Vouchers Up For Grabs In Suria KLCC's The Golden Ticket Campaign
Malaysia's iconic experiential shopping destination, Suria KLCC, takes shopper rewards to new heights with the return of its signature prize draw campaign, The Golden Ticket! Running from 9th to 25th May, this sixth edition is the mall's most exciting one yet, where one shopper wins RM10,000 in Suria KLCC Shopping e-Vouchers every single day. Returning with an electrifying new look and an expanded scale, this year's campaign transforms the Centre Court into a life-sized neon playground inspired by the beloved Snakes and Ladders game – complete with lighted panels and a giant dice. Shoppers can look forward to four thrilling ticket tiers: Golden (e-Vouchers worth RM10,000), Ruby (e-Vouchers worth RM5,000), Emerald (e-Vouchers worth RM100) and Purple (e-Vouchers worth RM50). To participate, shoppers simply need to spend RM1,500 and above in two receipts at any specialty store. Each qualified shopper gets to roll a giant dice and step onto the interactive snakes-and-ladders-inspired board to uncover either a Purple Ticket, an Emerald Ticket, a Ruby Ticket (e-Vouchers worth RM5,000), or the coveted Golden Ticket. And when the Golden Ticket or Ruby Ticket is revealed? Expect celebratory music and flashing neon lights to make that moment unforgettable. Shoppers who win the top two ticket tiers will be featured on the Wall of Winners, where they'll strike a pose with oversized ticket cutouts and dice for photos and videos displayed on a rotating screen at the Centre Court. Adding to the atmosphere is a nostalgic arcade photobooth, a claw machine filled with delightful gifts, and weekend treats like candy floss and neon glow sticks for shoppers of all ages. 'The Golden Ticket campaign has become a much-anticipated annual tradition among loyal customers. This year's lucky draw is truly next level — we've doubled the excitement, making sure that everyone who joins leaves with a smile,' said Francis Tan, Executive Director and CEO of Suria KLCC Sdn Bhd. For those tuning in online, The Golden Ticket continues in digital form via Suria KLCC's social media platforms — where additional cash prizes await. Of course, Suria KLCC's sister malls also have to get in on the fun! Shoppers at Alamanda Shopping Centre in Putrajaya and Mesra Mall in Terengganu will also hold the Golden Ticket campaign. Running from 23rd May to 8th June, the campaign at Alamanda also assumes a playful theme inspired by the classic childhood game of Snakes and Ladders. This year's setup transforms the Centre Court into a whimsical forest filled with animated snakes, flowers and ladders. Shoppers who spend RM500 or more across two receipts at any specialty stores can roll a giant six-coloured dice for the chance to win e-Vouchers worth up to RM1,000. With 50 prizes up for grabs each day, every participant walks away a winner. Prizes include the coveted Golden Ticket worth RM1,000, Yellow Ticket worth RM500, and Blue Ticket worth RM50 in Alamanda Shopping e-Vouchers. Any unclaimed tickets will roll over to the next day, increasing the thrill with every visit. Each day, one lucky shopper will uncover the Golden Ticket and be celebrated in style with flashing lights, cheerful music, and an on-the-spot photo opportunity with a mock cheque. Over on the East Coast, The Golden Ticket campaign returns to Mesra Mall from 9th to 25th May. Also adopting a similar theme, the Terengganu mall brings the nostalgia of childhood games to life with a vibrant Snakes and Ladders setup at Centre Court. Shoppers who spend RM300 in two receipts at any specialty store can roll a giant colourful dice to unlock a mystery box and stand a chance to win shopping vouchers worth up to RM1,000. A total of 51 prizes are up for grabs daily — including the coveted Golden Ticket (RM1,000), Silver Ticket (RM500), and Blue Ticket (RM30), making everyone a winner throughout the 17-day campaign. The Centre Court will feature a snake and ladder backdrop, complete with playful snakes and towering ladders, providing the perfect photo moment for lucky winners with their mock cheques. With daily carryovers for undrawn tickets, the odds keep getting better as the campaign progresses.
The Citizen
03-05-2025
- Entertainment
- The Citizen
Children have a blast a family fun day
Florida — Children from all over the West Rand had fun on Wednesday, May 1, at Florida Primary School, when Dazzling with Kids hosted a Family Fun Day that was filled with excitement and laughter. The performing arts and extra mural activity school, based in the West Rand, brought together families for a day of bonding and play. The event was packed with various activities that catered to children of all ages. Activities like the tug-of-war competition saw parents and children teaming up to take down their opponents, while the jumping castles provided endless hours of bouncing fun. ALSO READ: Easter fun at parkrun The classic game of Snakes and Ladders was given a life-size twist, and the rodeo activity had children cheering and laughing. But the highlight of the day was undoubtedly the special appearance of Bumblebee and Kung Fu Panda, who danced and performed to the delight of the children. The kids were overjoyed to see their favourite characters come to life, and the excitement was palpable as they watched Bumblebee's energetic routine. ALSO READ: Fitness and fun at parkrun According to the CEO of Dazzling with Kids, Thobeka Dlongolo, the day was aimed at bringing children and parents together and also strengthening their bond, seeing that we live in a digital world where families hardly have time together. At the end, families had an opportunity to browse through stalls selling a variety of food, drinks, home essentials, and kiddies' treats. At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
South China Morning Post
31-01-2025
- Business
- South China Morning Post
DeepSeek's US tech rout kicks off 2025's game of snakes and ladders
Published: 5:30am, 1 Feb 2025 As China celebrates the Year of the Snake, the first lai see (red packet) was the revelation of DeepSeek's artificial intelligence (AI) software, which led investors to question US tech valuations, causing a near-US$1 trillion Wall Street rout. Widening volatility looms, with US President Donald Trump signing a flurry of executive orders , amid huge uncertainty from natural disasters and, of course, emerging tech game changers like DeepSeek . It made me think of the classic game of chance, Snakes and Ladders, where one could be advancing up a ladder one moment and sliding down a snake the next. How do we figure out who and what is up and down in this snaky, slippery year? The best analysis I have heard is from Hong Kong-based economist Louis-Vincent Gave, who argues that mainstream media has overlooked the fact that the Chinese economy has leapfrogged the West in engineering and, increasingly, technology. After eight visits to the mainland last year, I arrived at the same conclusion – most of us have overlooked the qualitative change in the mainland economy because few outside 'experts' have visited the factories and looked at what is really going on. The macroeconomic statistics outsiders examine suggest a Chinese economy in deep trouble but what we are witnessing is a qualitative change in supply (production) and demand (consumption or investment). A structural and cyclical change has happened in China while the world was distracted by the Ukraine and Gaza wars , and domestic political turmoil in the West. 05:10 Chinese AI disrupter DeepSeek claims top spot in US App Store, dethroning ChatGPT Chinese AI disrupter DeepSeek claims top spot in US App Store, dethroning ChatGPT We need to see these nuanced changes in the context of a world being transformed by technology (especially social media) and the discrediting of mainstream Western media churned out by liberal elites who have lost touch with reality and the masses. Wall Street reads the economic tea leaves that show a booming US economy, but underplays the fact that the boom in stock markets and employment was stimulated by unsustainable fiscal and trade deficits.
