Having been consigned to 'Commercial' (shorthand/typing, English grammar no literature, arithmetic not maths), I breezed through school until School Certificate year (=NCEA1), when I actually got the third highest mark in the school. I was thrilled. I thought I might, just might, be able to go to university. But no, not the right subjects and no opportunity to do catch up. But at least I knew I was pretty close. And I did a similar project to yours, Anna, in my final year. I researched to the nth degree William Sutch who was charged with spying for Russia. Probably not a wise choice, a left wing 'spy' being researched by a good Catholic girl. I firmly believed that he was set up, said so in my project, and received absolutely no feedback from the teacher. Just a C grade I think. But by then I had made up my mind, I knew I was on the right track, and have been a lefty ever since :):)
Just a little clarification :). My essay on Sutch was in defence of his position as Head of Department which was challenged because of his 'unacceptable beliefs'. I believed the government was targeting him unfairly. He was subsequently charged with spying about 10 years later. He was found innocent.
Amazing how those injustices from school days stay with us. Great when they can become a positive!
I snorted. This is excellent. Ka rawe!
As a teacher… go you!!!
Having been consigned to 'Commercial' (shorthand/typing, English grammar no literature, arithmetic not maths), I breezed through school until School Certificate year (=NCEA1), when I actually got the third highest mark in the school. I was thrilled. I thought I might, just might, be able to go to university. But no, not the right subjects and no opportunity to do catch up. But at least I knew I was pretty close. And I did a similar project to yours, Anna, in my final year. I researched to the nth degree William Sutch who was charged with spying for Russia. Probably not a wise choice, a left wing 'spy' being researched by a good Catholic girl. I firmly believed that he was set up, said so in my project, and received absolutely no feedback from the teacher. Just a C grade I think. But by then I had made up my mind, I knew I was on the right track, and have been a lefty ever since :):)
Ha, what a bold choice! Don't know if you're aware, but a biography of his wife came out recently. I bought it but haven't yet read it.
https://aotearoabooks.co.nz/shirley-smith-an-examined-life/
I am SO pleased you found the assignment and loved it all over again!
I'd like to add that you're not only a great writer - you're also a massive thinker and that combination is gold. So there, teacher of previous years!
Like that credit card ad - priceless!
Just a little clarification :). My essay on Sutch was in defence of his position as Head of Department which was challenged because of his 'unacceptable beliefs'. I believed the government was targeting him unfairly. He was subsequently charged with spying about 10 years later. He was found innocent.
Yayyyyy - that teacher can suck it. You are an awesome writer! 👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽 🏆
Thank you e hoa - appreciate your writing too.