Make an effort to communicate Nowadays, teens seldom chat with their families. Many prefer their computers to their parents. Adolescents tend to be rebellious and don't even listen to their parents. I think the so-called generation gap is a result of young people thinking their parents cannot understand them. They keep everything to themselves and do not even tell their parents when they are in trouble. Communication between parents and children is important. Parents often know things that young people do not and can provide guidance on confusing issues. Lack of communication often means that parents do not know what their children are doing or who they are with. Both parties should make more of an effort. As teenagers, try to reach out to your parents. You can write a letter if you feel embarrassed about opening up. Do not let them worry. Kiki So, Pooi To Middle School Give special needs students a chance I am concerned about 60 special-needs pupils that are waiting to find out whether they can return to school. I disagree that mentally disabled students do not have the right to a free education after 18. It is unfair. Special needs students should have the right to study in special schools where they can learn vocational skills. They should also learn to take care of themselves through special guidance. Of course, it costs public money to provide an education to special needs students. But in the long term, it will be money well spent as it will help the students become more self-reliant and able to make contributions to society. Cream Chan We should all be proud to be Chinese I am very proud of being Chinese. In the old days, our country had a not-so-good reputation due to its weak economy. It was constantly bullied by other countries. But today's China is constantly progressing. Take the recent financial crisis, for example. For many countries it has been a disaster, but the mainland continues its development in the construction, transport and agricultural industries, as well as energy production. On the mainland, development is a first priority, and our massive homeland is increasingly connecting with the rest of the world as a powerful international state. You only need to visit Shanghai to see how true this is. Shanghai has seen explosive growth and many people who live in the city that was once known as the Jewel of the Orient have become very well off. Shanghai is not alone. Cities throughout the mainland - the so-called second- and third-tier cities - are scrambling to catch up, gradually providing China with a brighter future. When someone asks me where I come from, I always answer China and add that I am proud to say so. Wong Sin-yi Give DVDs a break, go to the movies Going to the cinema is one of the most common forms of entertainment. I think it is a valuable social activity, even though it basically means sitting in silence with friends for two hours. After we have watched the movie, we all have something to talk about. I know some people prefer buying a DVD and watching it at home rather than going to a cinema. I agree it is nice to watch a DVD in the comfort of your home. But I still think the cinema provides a much better environment for appreciating movies. The big screen and powerful acoustics can draw you into a story. I think the big screen is the perfect way to experience another world, and this is what makes the cinema irreplaceable. Winny Lau
