Teen Things
Teen•Things
Look out for new weekly topics during the school holidays, from 5 June 2022!
(Updated 21 June 2022)
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The “S” in Skincare is for Sunscreen
Ah, our lovely tropical weather with the blazing sun! It’s not difficult to get a tan in this city and while it might be desirable for some to show off that golden glow, it’s also important to protect ourselves from harmful UV rays.
Dangers of UV Rays
Source: How UV Rays Damage Skin, DocUnlock.
Though the sun might be earth’s main source of life, too much of a good thing can be bad for you. The sun produces ultraviolet radiation, and Singapore is cited to be one of the countries that has the highest levels of radiation in the world (Source: Today Online, 2020).
It is therefore vital for us to protect our skin whenever we are exposed to the sun. We can do so in various ways, and the simplest one is to apply sunscreen.
Sunscreen should be applied anytime you are exposed to the sun, even if you are indoors. You’d need to reapply more frequently if you are engaging in outdoor activities.
What exactly is sunscreen, and is there a difference between it and sunblock?
It’s all about the ingredients, and the more accurate terms to use for sunblock and sunscreen are “physical sunscreens” and “chemical sunscreens” respectively. Here’s another fun fact - they work differently too!
While physical sunscreens act like a layer on your skin and block UV rays, chemical sunscreens don’t. Instead, they absorb the UV rays and expel the resultant small amount of energy as heat.
How do you choose a suitable sunscreen for yourself? A tube of sunscreen may boast features such as “SPF 50” or “PA+++”, but what do these values actually mean?
1. SPF
No, this SPF doesn’t stand for Singapore Police Force. SPF in sunscreens refers to “Sun-Protection Factor”, and it helps to confer protection against UVB rays. Does a higher SPF value mean better protection? This video explores the answers.
Source: Sunscreen Indoors, Really? All You Need To Know For The Right Sunscreen | Talking Point, CNA Insider.
2. PA+/UVA/Broad Spectrum Protection
A rating system that originated from Japan, PA+ is an indicator of the level of a product’s protection against UVA rays. Its European Union equivalent is UVA, which is also referred to as “Broad Spectrum Protection” in the United States.
If you’re worried that applying sunscreen will agitate your sensitive skin, check out this video for some helpful tips on how to choose a product that works for you!
Source: Sunscreen for Acne Prone Skin • How to Choose Sunscreens & What to Avoid, Liah Yoo.
Check these books out!
Skincare Decoded: The Practical Guide to Beautiful Skin
Authors: Victoria Fu and Gloria Lu
Call No.: English 646.726 FU
Publisher: Weldon Owen, 2021
Also available as an eBook on NLB Overdrive.
Depending on who you listen to, the secret to beautiful skin is microbiomes. Or Korean rice water. Or maybe a dermaplaning tool. It feels like you need a degree in chemistry to even understand what these products are, and if they live up to the hype. Luckily, Victoria Fu and Gloria Lu, professional skincare chemists have done that work so you don’t have to. The science may seem complicated, but this book will show you how simple it can be, giving you what you need to make informed decisions about your skin (and your wallet).
Skincare Actives? Technically, cat sneezes could count. SPF? Yep, super important. Caffeine serums? The science is still out. CBD additives? Not enough studies yet, so the jury’s still out.
The authors are the creators behind the popular Chemist Confessions Instagram, and this book brings the sass, humor, and solid information they’re known for. Additional chapters address the best ingredients for every skin type and reveal the only four products you really need.
Synopsis from Simon & Schuster.
Skin Care and Make Up (Tips and Tricks)
Author: Karen Latchana Kenney
Call No.: Y 646.72 KEN
Publisher: Lerner Publishing Group, 2015
Also available as an eBook on NLB Overdrive.
It’s tricky to keep your skin looking great—but the right healthy habits and the careful use of makeup can make a world of difference. It’s as simple as knowing which products and treatments work best for your skin type, whether it’s oily or dry. Once you’re taking good care of your skin, it’s easy to use makeup to enhance your natural beauty.
Discover how to make your own skin-care products and perfume. And learn how to choose among different kinds of makeup, how to take care of your products and tools, and how to create your own unique look. With the right tips and tricks, you’ll soon be on your way to fabulous, glowing skin!
Synopsis from Lerner Books.
(All websites were last accessed on 26 June 2022.)
Easy Excel Tips
Does using Microsoft Excel make you feel confused and confounded? Maybe you have a project with lots of numbers and you’re not sure how to present it? Or you’ve been roped in to be a party planner with a never-ending guest list?
Amaze your friends and family by showing them a trick or two up your sleeve.
Scenario: You’re a Party Planner for a marvellous book exchange event!
Objective: Organise the guest list
Ready? Let’s get organised!
1. Open the Excel programme on your computer
2. Select “Blank workbook”
3. Type in your headers in row 1, and fill in your guests’ names and the number of books they will each be bringing
Numbering
Instead of typing each number, why not make Excel do most of the work?
4. Type 1, 2, 3 in column 1, under the header, “No.”
5. Select the cells A2 to A4 and hover over the bottom right of this selection until the cursor changes to a cross
6. Drag the cross down the column to fill in the series
Separating Names using Flash Fill
Instead of typing each name manually, let Excel work its magic by giving it a pattern to follow.
7. In cells C2 and D2, type the “First Name” and “Last Name” of cell B2 respectively
8. Select cell C2, then press the keys CTRL and E to “magically” fill in the “First Name” column. i.e. CTRL + E
9. Repeat for cell D2 by selecting cell D2. Then, press the keys CTRL and E to fill in the “Last Name” column i.e. CTRL + E
Creating a Table
Instead of organising by sight, turn your rows and columns into a table with filters.
10. Select any cell in your table and press the keys CTRL + A to select all the cells; and press CTRL + T
11. Press ENTER to create the table that automatically has filters and a colour scheme
Sorting
Instead of cutting and pasting rows in alphabetical order, sort them using the filter function.
12. Click the arrow in cell C1 to bring up the filter list and click “Sort A to Z”
13. Ta-da! Here’s the list sorted alphabetically
Sum, Average, Minimum and Maximum
Instead of using a calculator to count the books, try this!
14. In cell A12, type “Total” and hit ENTER to make this part of your table
15. Select cell E12, then mouse over to the top right ribbon and click the arrow beside “∑” to bring up the drop-down list
16. Click “∑ Sum” and cell E12 now shows the sum of the books
17. Repeat steps 14 to 16 but with Average, Minimum and Maximum functions
Chart
Time to present your data in a visual form.
18. Select the range B1 to E11, and click “Insert Recommended Chart” in the top ribbon
19. Select “Clustered Column” and click “OK”
Congratulations, you can now get your book exchange party started! Now that you’ve learnt these cool Excel tips, why not use them for school projects too?
To learn more Excel tricks and shortcuts, watch:
Source: Excel shortcut keys you SHOULD know!, Leila Gharani.
Check out these titles if you enjoy mathematics and coding!
A Maths Journey Around a Deep Sea Adventure
Authors: Hilary Koll & Steve Mills
Call No.: Y 510 KOL
Publisher: Wayland, 2017
Available as a physical copy only. (Find a copy at the public libraries via the NLB catalogue!)
Go on a real-life maths journey to practise the core topics of number, geometry, statistics, ratio & proportion, algebra and measurement. Through data visualisation methods, including colourful diagrams, pictograms, illustrations, photographs and infographics, Go Figure! brings maths into the real world in an innovative, exciting and engaging visual way. It makes even the trickiest problem easier to understand and builds valuable confidence in maths!
Find out how the maths you learn at school can help you go on an adventure deep under the sea!
Maths challenges encourage you to use real data and fascinating facts to solve mathematical problems that will help you on your travels!
Synopsis from Wayland.
Code a Minecraft® Mod in JavaScript Step by Step
Author: Joshua Romphf
Call No.: Y 794.81525 ROM
Publisher: Rosen Publishing, 2020
Also available as an eBook on NLB OverDrive.
Minecraft is a global phenomenon, adored by millions of gamers, but what if Minecraft could teach vital computer literacy and programming skills? Simply put: It can. This engaging and informative resource is designed to guide coders on a journey to enjoy their favorite game while they learn the basics of JavaScript, which is one of the world’s most popular programming languages. Starting off with brainteasers and working up to real coding, these fun and exciting activities will teach everything needed to know how to write a brand new mod.
Synopsis from Rosen Publishing.
The book covers and synopses are the copyright of the respective publishing companies.
(All websites were last accessed on 16 June 2022.)
Travelling Sustainably
With the lifting of pandemic restrictions, countries are reopening their borders to tourists. However, the increase in travel also threatens Earth’s climate in many ways.
Sustainable tourism seeks to promote responsible travelling that respects environments, economies, and local communities. Whether you are spending a weekend in neighbouring Malaysia or exploring a different continent, read on to find out how to travel more sustainably.
1. The Negative Environmental Impacts of Tourism
Image source: Greentumble.
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) identified three key areas in which tourism degrades the environment—depletion of natural resources; environmental pollution; and biodiversity loss.
This article urges us to consider the detrimental impact on nature from our tourist activities, such as transportation, hotel stays and other recreational pursuits.
2. How You Can Do Your Part for Sustainable Tourism
Image source: Skyscanner.
Choosing sustainable tourism doesn’t necessarily mean drastic changes to your travelling habits. This article lists actionable steps you can take to be mindful of the environment during your vacation. Some of these ideas can also make for new overseas experiences!
Image source: Youth Corps Singapore.
Youth Corps Singapore provides youth, aged 15 and above, with opportunities to implement service-learning projects to benefit overseas communities. Check out their website for resources and more information.
3. Reusable Things to Travel With
Image source: GoAbroad.
While travelling, there are some essentials that we cannot go without. While single-use or disposable items may be convenient, consider bringing your own to reduce waste and save money in the long run! This listicle covers items that you could invest in for daily use as well as your trips abroad.
For more reads on sustainable tourism, check out these titles!
Sustainable Travel: The Essential Guide to Positive-Impact Adventures
Author: Holly Tuppen
Call No.: English 910.202 TUP -[TRA]
Publisher: White Lion Publishing, 2021
Also available as an eBook on NLB OverDrive.
With so many of us looking to travel in a more sustainable way, but not sure how to go about it, this comprehensive guide reveals everything you need to know. It’s a must read for anyone looking to tackle the climate crisis and support nature and people while travelling.
Synopsis from White Lion Publishing.
The Eco-Conscious Travel Guide
Author: Georgina Wilson-Powell
Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers, 2022
Only available as an eBook on NLB OverDrive.
Whether you have a long weekend or a fortnight to spare, there are plenty of no-fly European adventures to discover.
From coastal to cultural, mountainous to mouth-watering, The Eco-Conscious Travel Guide offers 30 themed routes you can hop on and hop off at any point, including:
- Alpine Ambles
- Ski Escapes
- Chocolate, Cheese and Carb Delights
Synopsis from HarperCollins Publishers.
Sustainable Escapes
Author: James Bainbridge
Call No.: English 910.292 BAI -[TRA]
Publisher: Lonely Planet, 2020
Also available as an eBook on NLB OverDrive.
This is Lonely Planet’s guide to the world’s best eco-friendly resorts and experiences. From eco-lodges with cutting-edge sustainability initiatives to tours designed to protect wildlife and empower communities, you’ll discover remarkable places where you can feel good about spending your time and money.
Synopsis from Lonely Planet.
The book covers and synopses are the copyright of the respective publishing companies.
(All websites were last accessed on 14 June 2022.)
Marvellous Manga
Naruto, One Piece, My Hero Academia, Jujutsu Kaisen – these are just some of the more popular anime series out there. While these series are available in anime or animated format, the basis for their stories were developed from their original manga. “Manga” refers to Japanese comics or graphic novels.
Check out our Learning Playlist on the NLB LearnX site for a selection of curated video introductions to manga!
What is manga?
Manga is an art form that tells a story through the greater usage of pictures over words. However, it doesn’t mean that text is entirely overlooked.
In fact, text in the form of narration, dialogue, or sound effects all serve to enhance the reader’s experience of the story.
Unlike the full-coloured pages of most comics we see today, manga is often presented in black and white. It is typically published in manga-based magazines by the different publishers on a weekly or monthly basis.
Creators of manga are known as “mangaka” and they often both write and illustrate their own works.
If a series becomes popular, its chapters then later get combined into what is called a “tankōbon” that is, an edition or volume with several chapters in it.
How to read manga?
Unlike books in English that are traditionally read from left to right, manga panels and speech bubbles should be read from right to left. Although the sequence can be confusing when you first start reading manga, you will soon get used to it!
What genres are there?
The main genres in manga may not be the ones that you’re familiar with. The usual literary genres, like action, comedy, and science-fiction, are known in the manga world as sub-genres, but not the main genres.
Instead, manga is typically sorted by how it is marketed to different demographics or age groups.
Here are some popular genres to note:
1. Shōjo
Targeted at girls aged 12 to 18, manga of this genre usually centre around the topics of friendship, slice-of-life, and even romance.
2. Shōnen
Targeted at boys aged 12 to 18, manga of this genre usually have themes of action and adventure. Shōnen is the best-selling genre, with many popular series gaining international fame.
3. Kodomo
Targeted at children under 12, manga of this genre tend to be episodic, have child-friendly themes, and tell stories that teach readers about the world around them.
Manga’s versatility lends itself to adaptations in a variety of multimedia formats. These different types of adaptations can appeal to different demographics.
One such adaptation is anime, which is a style of animation that originates from Japan. It’s rare to discuss manga without also talking about anime, since the former is frequently adapted into the latter. As anime becomes more accessible on popular streaming platforms, it can reach massive audiences and draw new fans into the original manga.
Popular manga series are sometimes even adapted into live-action dramas and films, where characters are played by human actors instead of illustrated with 2D computer graphics.
The versatility of manga extends beyond film and television. Franchises can cover a range of products such as merchandise and games, which are developed and marketed to beloved fans.
For example, popular series like Naruto and Bleach have seen developers releasing multiple spin-off video games on gaming consoles such as the Wii, Gameboy, and PlayStation.
In more recent years, manga has even become a basis for mobile games, furthering the original story and its experience in a portable format.
The adaptation of manga is not always one-directional. Did you know that the renowned Pokémon brand actually started out as a video game series? It has since been serialised as a manga given its commercial success.
Seeing how versatile and varied manga can be, there’s definitely something for everyone.
Welcome to the wide, wonderful world of manga!
Check out our Learning Playlist on the NLB LearnX site for more manga-related resources!
As of April 2022, the following public libraries each have a manga collection for you to peruse:
- Choa Chu Kang Public Library
- Jurong Regional Library
- Jurong West Public Library
- Woodlands Regional Library
- Central Public Library – temporarily closed from 13 Jun 2022.
- Marine Parade Public Library – temporarily closed from 9 May 2022.
If you prefer eBooks, check out NLB’s eCollection of manga titles here! Browse the “Best of Comics & Graphic Novels” collection, or access titles by publishers such as VIZ Media and Seven Seas Entertainment.
Here are some other titles you can check out to immerse yourself more deeply into the wide, wonderful world of manga!
Dr. STONE
Author: Inagaki Riichiro
Publisher: VIZ Media, 2018
Call No.: English 741.5952 INA -[CMX]
Available as a physical copy only. (Find a copy at the public libraries via the NLB catalogue!)
One fateful day, all of humanity turned to stone. Many millennia later, Taiju frees himself from the petrification and finds himself surrounded by statues. The situation looks grim—until he runs into his science-loving friend Senku! Together they plan to restart civilisation with the power of science!
Synopsis from VIZ Media.
Spy x Family
Author: Endo Tatsuya
Publisher: VIZ Media, 2020
Call No.: English 741.5952 END -[CMX]
Available as a physical copy only. (Find a copy at the public libraries via the NLB catalogue!)
Master spy Twilight is the best at what he does when it comes to going undercover on dangerous missions in the name of a better world. But when he receives the ultimate impossible assignment—get married and have a kid—he may finally be in over his head!
Synopsis from VIZ Media.
Ichi-F
Author: Kazuto Tatsuta
Publisher: Kodansha Comics, 2017
Call No.: Y 363.17990952117 TAT
Available as a physical copy only. (Find a copy at the public libraries via the NLB catalogue!)
This is the story of a man who took a job. Kazuto Tatsuta was an amateur artist who signed onto the dangerous task of cleaning up the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Plant, which its workers came to call “Ichi-F.” This is the story of that challenging work, of the trials faced by the local citizens, and of the unique camaraderie that built up between the mostly blue-collar workers who had to face the devious and invisible threat of radiation on a daily basis. After six months, Tatsuta’s body had absorbed the maximum annual dose of radiation allowed by regulations, and he was forced to take a break from the work crew, giving him the time to create this unprecedented, unauthorised, award-winning view of daily life at Fukushima Daiichi.
Synopsis from Kodansha.
The book covers and synopses are the copyright of the respective publishing companies.
(All websites were last accessed on 30 May 2022.)