Principal, teachers, and students:
Good morning! Looking at the school calendar, Friday is our annual off-campus learning day, and November 18th is our school-wide photo day. So today, I'd like to share some etiquette and tips for taking photos, and also talk about the flag-raising ceremony. These two things may seem like routine, but each time we do them, it's the best way to showcase our personal qualities and the school's spirit.
First, the flag-raising ceremony best demonstrates reverence and self-discipline; it is a solemn and respectful ritual. The national flag symbolizes the dignity of the country and represents the cohesion of our collective. During the flag-raising ceremony, our actions directly reflect our inner respect. So, how should we do it?
(1) Posture and eye contact: When the national anthem is played and the national flag is raised, we should stand at attention—stand straight with our feet together and our hands hanging naturally at our sides. Most importantly, we should solemnly watch the national flag as it is raised, rather than looking around or looking down in a daze.
(2) Quiet and focus: During the flag-raising ceremony, it is forbidden to whisper, sway your body, or fidget with personal belongings. The few minutes of quiet standing test our respect for the occasion and demonstrate our high level of self-discipline.
Secondly, let's talk about etiquette for group photos. Whether it's the sports meet, graduation ceremony, or a class commemorative photo, group photos record our shared memories of youth. To take a high-quality group photo, everyone's cooperation is needed. So how should we do that?
(1) Get into position quickly and follow instructions: The worst thing you can do when taking a group photo is to dawdle. When you hear the assembly instruction, everyone should quickly take their positions according to their height or the teacher's instructions. Being courteous to each other and getting into position quickly is a sign of respect for the photographer and the time of your classmates.
(2) Neat appearance and graceful demeanor: Before taking the photo, please check that your school uniform is neat and that the collar is turned up properly. Maintain an upright posture and place your hands naturally. Look at the camera and show a natural and confident smile. Please remember that group photos aim for overall harmony; inappropriate actions or funny expressions will ruin the aesthetics of the entire photo.
(2) Stay focused and get it right the first time: In the crucial few seconds when the photographer presses the shutter, please keep your eyes wide open and smile. Do not blink or turn your head casually. This way, everyone can complete the shooting efficiently.
(4) Gestures should be appropriate; avoid the reverse V-sign (backhand V sign). The reverse V-sign refers to the gesture where the back of the hand faces outwards and the palm faces inwards when making a "V-sign" in photos. This gesture should be avoided in school group photos or formal occasions for two main reasons: Firstly, it carries a strong sense of insult in international culture. In countries like the UK, Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, and South Africa, the reverse V-sign is a highly provocative and offensive gesture, culturally equivalent to giving the middle finger (a vulgar gesture). I want to especially remind everyone not to make the reverse V-sign (back of the hand facing outwards) when taking photos. This gesture carries an indecent and offensive connotation in Western culture, and making such a gesture in a group photo is not only undignified but also affects the solemn image of the group.
Dear students, whether it's the solemn flag-raising ceremony or the heartwarming group photo, the core message behind it all is "respect"—respect for the occasion, respect for others, and ultimately, respect for ourselves. I hope that in every future group activity or ceremony, you will all demonstrate your best spirit and leave a dignified and beautiful mark on your high school life.
Thank you everyone.

Teacher Chen Jiarong