Whether you're a high school student (or secondary school student as they are known here) or a post-grad University student, tools are essential to succeed in your studies. Let's explore some of the most common school supplies, known by their Maltese names and their English translations.
Il-Lapes (Pencil) - The humble pencil is a fundamental tool for students of all ages. It's perfect for jotting down notes, solving math problems, or sketching creative ideas. The classic wooden pencil, often used with an eraser, is a versatile companion in the classroom.
Ir-Riga (Ruler) - A rule is essential for drawing straight lines, measuring lengths, and creating neat, organized notes and diagrams. Rulers come in various lengths and materials, including plastic, wood, and metal.
Il-Kumpass (Compass) - The compass is indispensable in geometry and technical drawing. It enables students to draw precise circles and arcs, making it an essential tool for mathematics and design classes.
Il-Pitazz (Copybook) - Copybooks, sometimes called notebooks, are where students present their homework thoughts, assignments, and class notes.
Il-Pinna (Pen) - Pens come in a wide range of colors and tip types, such as ballpoint, gel, or fountain pens.
Il-Folder (Folders) - Hmmmm... that looks surprisingly like English. Well, it is... we just use "il-folder" for the thing that helps students stay organized by storing loose papers, assignments, and handouts.
Il-Gomma (Eraser) - It literally just means "rubber" (as in, the material) and is that thing to remove pencil marks or stray pen lines, ensuring that students' work remains neat and error-free. You know, that thing you rub furiously with and that burns a hole in the page.
So what's a page, then? Simply put - paġna (plural: paġni) - the blank canvases on which students write, draw, and create.
These school utensils may appear simple, but have been in several cases in use for several centuries and now, like then, play a crucial role in students' daily academic lives.
So, next time you pick up your "lapes" and "gomma" remember the importance of these seemingly ordinary but invaluable school utensils in your educational journey.