You have received a letter from your English-speaking pen friend.

Can you help me with a class project? I have to write about places which are special to people. Can you tell me about a place that is special to you? Where is it? What does it look like? It doesn’t have to be a famous place. Just explain why it’s important to you.
Write soon, 
Sam

Write your letter.


Dear Sam,

How’re you? I'm delighted to help you with your class project. Let me share with you an extraordinary place. Sing Yin Secondary School, my alma mata, may not be well-known all over the world, but it holds a special place in my heart undoubtedly.

First of all, it’s necessary for me to briefly describe Sing Yin Secondary School. Located in Choi Hung, the school contains various kinds of facilities, including the hall, the chapel, the library, Computer Room, Language Theatre, laboratories, Astronomy Corner, the gymnasium and classrooms. In 2013, Sing Yin was named one of the “Greenest Schools on Earth” by the World Green Building Council because it uses energy-saving features. For instance, there are solar panels, which convert solar energy into electrical energy, and motion sensors that switch the air-con and lights off automatically only when they detect no one inside the rooms. Generally, the school uses 20% less electricity than ordinary secondary schools in Hong Kong.
 
However, what makes my alma mata truly remarkable is the teachers who dedicate themselves to nurturing their students. When I first entered Sing Yin, my standards of English were so low that I once considered giving up. Yet, the teachers here nurtured my interest in English and my ambition to improve it, with one of them even teaching me and other students during lunchtime so as to help us catch up with the study. Particularly, Mr. Wong, who was my Form 5 class teacher, often reminded me, “As said by Nelson Mandela, a winner is a dreamer who never gives up. Perseverance is the key to success.” Fortunately, my English abilities significantly improved. Although I got a “C” in English in the HKCEE, I achieved an “A” in Use of English in the HKALE. I was deeply touched by the teachers’ devotion to helping students. 

Sing Yin Secondary School is not only about academic studies, since it has also played a vital role in my personal growth. Recognizing the importance of developing well-rounded individuals, the school has long adopted a holistic approach to education. It was lucky that I was exposed to a wide range of extra-curricular activities, including sports, clubs and community service, thereby enabling me to explore my interests and talents. More importantly, such activities could certainly promote valuable life skills like teamwork, leadership, empathy, sympathy and collaboration. Not only did these experiences enrich my school life, but also equipped me with essential life skills, without which I’ll be at a disadvantage in life.

To conclude, Sing Yin Secondary School is special to me as I grew a lot here, both academically and personally. I hope I can provide you with sufficient information regarding your class project. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact wish you an awesome result in your class project.

Best regards,
Andrew