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Higher maths doesn't add up
 I don't think studying maths is useful. In daily life, we only use addition, subtraction, multiplication and division. I can't understand the point of studying things like the formula to find the circumference of a circle.
Imagine if you saw someone trying to calculate the volume of an ice cream cone, and suddenly shouting 'Aha! 50 cubic cm', you'd think they were crazy.
I think we only ever need the knowledge we gain at primary school. The maths we are taught at secondary school is only useful if we want to study the subject at university.
But even though I don't understand the purpose of studying maths, I will still work hard and get good results in the exam.
Jessica Yu, Tsuen Wan Public Ho Chuen Yiu Memorial College
Honesty is always the best policy
If your friend  behaved badly or had a bad temper, would you shy away from the problem or point it out to him?
This is a dilemma many of us face. If I were in that situation, I would be completely honest.
Although it can be hard, being honest solves problems. If you avoid referring to something because you are afraid to hurt someone, you do him no favours. If you don't point it out, other people may  treat him badly because they think he's being unpleasant on purpose. 
By bringing a friend's attention to his imperfections, you give him the chance to improve himself. Only truth can clear up a problem entirely.
What's more, honesty creates trust and builds up social reputations. Being dishonest is simply foolish.  
 I hope everyone will start to be honest with one another. If everyone was honest, our world would be strengthened by the power of trust.
Jerry Wong, Hang Sang School of Commerce
The future of a historic street
 We recently completed a school project about Apliu Street's existing value, and how it might be redeveloped to boost Sham Shui Po's economy.
We interviewed residents, passersby and salespeople in and around the street, and also the district councillor, to give our project credibility. We discovered that most people know the street, and many of them have been there. We were surprised to learn that thousands flocked there during  weekends.
Unfortunately, despite the huge number of visitors, not many people actually like to buy things in Apliu Street. Business is slow. So while the street is a popular venue for both locals and tourists, it brings few economic benefits for the district.
While a few interviewees were happy to buy low-priced items offered by shops there, several said the quality of the products is suspect, and so they won't spend any money there. Others supported the idea of the government developing the area, and transforming it into a centre for the sale of second-hand goods.
Most interviewees think the best way to develop Apliu Street is by promoting it as  a tourist spot. This would provide more job opportunities and boost Sham Shui Po's economy.
To conclude, we believe Apliu Street has great value, and can become a key pillar of an ever-more prosperous Hong Kong.
Edelweiss Tuet Tsz-ching, Our Lady of the Rosary College
Too much, too soon under NSS
Form Four and Form Five students are now following the NSS curriculum. As well as studying a broad syllabus, they are also required to complete OLE - other learning experiences.
I don't think the Education Bureau officials put themselves in students' shoes before launching the NSS. Even our summer holiday has been cut short so we can have extra lessons. Teachers are also complaining that the timetable provided by the EDB is not practical. The officials think all students and teachers are a combination of Superman and Einstein, with a restless body and outstanding intellectual ability. But we're not, and they're expecting too much. 
Obviously, the EDB didn't consider the details when they were planning the NSS. Although they want us to be a smarter generation, free time is essential to allow children to explore the world and enhance their knowledge. 
Sharon Hsu Sze-ching, Maryknoll Fathers' School



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