Husky Herald - May 2013 Issue

Canadian International School | Husky Herald

Issue Number 2: May 2013 MICA (P) 180/11/2012

CARNIVALOF NATIONS(Cover Story - p.2)

Model United Nations(p.11)

Working, The Musical(p.20)

Terry Fox Fundraising(p.32)

EditorialEditor Michelle SharpCopy Editor Lisa LelandDesign Rowell Lee Raymond BabolPhotographs Communications Team and Faculty

DistributionThe Husky Herald is published 2 times during the academic year by the Communications Department of the Canadian International School.

It is distributed free of charge to parents, faculty members and organisations who serve the Canadian International School.

Canadian International SchoolLakeside Campus7 Jurong West Street 41,Singapore 649414T: 6467 1732

Tanjong Katong Campus371 Tanjong Katong Road,Singapore 437128T: 6345 1573

www.cis.edu.sg

ContactsInquiries and [email protected]

Husky Herald [email protected]

DeadlineHusky Herald articles must be submitted at least three weeks prior to the month of issue.

CPE Registration Number: 199002243HCPE Registration Period: 7 June 2011 to 7 June 2015

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ContentsMay 2013

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02 Cover Story

06 Our Community

08 EdTech

11 Academics

17 Arts

22 Sports

28 Beyond the Classroom

32 Service and Outreach

36 Student Voice

38 Celebrations

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Canadian International School | Husky Herald Canadian International School | Husky Herald

COVER STORY COVER STORY


COVER STORY

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COVER STORY

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We began February with Chinese New Year celebrations and then quickly moved to our annual weeklong cultural celebrations, “Uniting Nations Week “ at Lakeside campus and “Cultural Celebration Week” at Tanjong Katong campus. Festivities began with our community carnival, the Carnival of Nations and Global Bazaar, on 16 February, with over 4000 people enjoying the plethora of games, rides and activities on offer.

Uniting Nations celebrations at Lakeside included various cultural performances that included a traditional Japanese fisherman’s dance and a North American line dance. A highlight for many was the delicious array of foods at the annual Food Festival, which saw CIS parents preparing dishes that hailed from all corners of the globe. In true IB spirit, children embraced the concept of being risk takers as they experienced foods never before tasted - this year Aussie students were beaten by a Korean peer in the annual vegemite challenge! The week culminated with the perennially popular Parade of Nations with over 78 different nationalities represented.

Cultural Celebrations at Tanjong Katong was next on the menu, and began with an assembly that featured stories from around the world and multilingual storytelling. In true CIS tradition, the highlights of the week also featured a Food Festival with tasty delights and a Parade of Nations - celebrating the diversity that is CIS. These were truly remarkable events that underscore the heart of the CIS community.




COVER STORY

04We would like to extend a special thank you to the following sponsors: IFS, IEEC, Goh Transport, MegaZip, Presto Expat Motoring & T32 Dental Centre




COVER STORY

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OUR COMMUNITY

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Dear CIS Community,

As the year draws closer to summer, this is an important time for all of us to stop and reflect on the school year. For parents, they will want insight on how their child has developed throughout the year, students may wonder about how to apply their diligently acquired knowledge, and staff will look back to identify moments of triumph and challenge and ways to move forward. No matter who we are, there is always space for self-reflection, to allow ourselves to understand the great strides of progress we make as a community.

It has been an eventful year thus far, with our students surpassing our greatest expectations. What I see when I walk around our beautiful campuses is a group of strong, independent, well-rounded global citizens, whose self-assurance never fails to impress me. The sheer breadth of diversity on our school grounds provides me with a daily learning experience – one that I cherish and hope to see thrive within our school. Reinforced by the quality of instruction in our classes, we never fail to take advantage of any opportunity to update our techniques and ensure that our children receive nothing short of the best education.

We are invested in building and improving upon our culture of engagement and accountability, a responsibility we do not take lightly. Through integral performance and appraisal processes, we strive to ensure that each child develops their potential. By tying this in to our school principles, we have established an intricate system that supports student development.

Our mission as a school is not limited to academics. By Uniting Nations – the central theme of this thoughtful collaboration – we look to broaden horizons and expose students to a breadth of experiences that transcend borders. The recent Parade of Nations on both campuses provided us with an inspiring visual to the international community that is CIS. Our shared values, cultures and beliefs have translated into a loving and nurturing family that continues to grow. I ask you to share in this wonderful experience with me, and to read on for an insight to the community we have worked so hard to build.

Dr. Glenn Odland

Earlier this year we embarked on a journey to assess and benchmark our students’ performance. Through the rollout of a standardized testing model in Math and Literacy (Grades 3, 4, 7, 8, 9), we were able to determine the effectiveness of our teaching programme across individual grades from the results. I would like to take this opportunity to highlight the advanced curriculum that we follow, and the aptitude of all our educators who ensure that our students are adequately prepared for the rigours of the school year. Through diligent and guided engagement, each and every child receives personal support and attention from our dedicated staff.

Message from Head of School


OUR COMMUNITY

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ThoughtlessGesturesAmy Long, Grade 2-11 Teacher, Lakeside

When my husband and I first explored Singapore as a possible place to raise our family in 2008, we quickly decided on CIS as a school for our children. I’ll be honest - our children were 2 years old at the time, and it was the only school we had approached. We liked the campus and the “feel” of the school. We signed our kids up to start ECE in 2009 and didn’t look at any other schools. CIS was our first stop and we were happy. We figured they were young and if it didn’t work out we could change. It was a relatively “thoughtless” choice.

Our children are now in their 4th year at CIS. Every teacher they have encountered has been exceptional. Some may consider us “lucky”. Perhaps. I do not think so. Our experience at CIS has been one of great support – both from the teachers and the staff as a whole. They have all surpassed our expectations – not just for our children but for us as well. Our “thoughtless” choice was proving to be a good one.

This year I applied and was hired as a Grade 2 teacher at CIS. Some may say I am biased in my perspective of the school. Perhaps. But let me tell you one example of why I love our CIS community.

My daughter recently had what could have been a very tragic accident. Early one Monday morning, she was walking our dogs with her father. She was having a great time enjoying her “daddy daughter” moment in the quiet hours before our neighborhood was wide awake and bustling with people. She was chatting, skipping and laughing along our quiet road, and decided to do a little twirl. In this joyful moment, Emma tripped. A trip that would land her into a 5 foot by 3 foot concrete water catchment, on her head.

Obviously that Monday morning was no longer joyous. I immediately contacted the school to let them know I needed to take my daughter to the hospital. Siti, who you may not know, works in the elementary office and is someone teachers could not function without, immediately found a supply teacher for my class. This prompt action allowed me to concentrate fully on my daughter. The doctors thankfully gave her the all clear. She was bruised and her face had some big abrasions, but that was all.

The next day my daughter went to school. I think I sent her to school so I could be close to her while I was teaching. She spent the morning in a reading group with a parent volunteer, but was miserable and went home after morning recess. It was my thoughtless choice to bring her to school with me and I felt horrible.

My colleagues - friends really - gave me space, support and exactly what I needed to cope. They probably don’t even realize how they helped me through a very hard week with their “thoughtless gestures”. My students and their parents were asking about my daughter, how my family was doing, providing care and offering support. Some may say that was to be expected. Perhaps.

The parent volunteer from my daughter’s reading group spoke quietly to Emma’s teacher, and he offered the help of someone who could help with Emma’s facial abrasions. A simple, “thoughtless gesture.”

Emma’s teacher, Jenny O’Donnell, called me in the evening on her own time to pass on the parent’s offer of help. She followed up and made sure that this wonderful parent got in contact with me - another “thoughtless gesture”.

This wonderful parent took the time to make an appointment with one of Singapore’s leading plastic surgeons specialising in wound healing, so that my daughter would have a better chance of not being permanently scarred. For him a nothing, “thoughtless gesture”, but for my daughter and family it was an incredible gift.

The appointment was made instantly with no wait time. We went in early on a Saturday morning before surgery hours, and this was all thanks to one caring parent.

I believe that we get caught up in the grand gestures, the big impressive moments. For me, I love this school because of the quiet, and what seem like thoughtless gestures. Things you may believe people should do but often don’t. I believe it is these “it was nothing”, thoughtless gestures that show the true measure of a person. It is in these little things, these moments that people don’t even realize they are doing, that matter so much.

I see these gestures all time at CIS - teachers who come in at 6am to prepare their lessons and ensure they are engaging and interesting for our children, parents who take time out of their day to volunteer in the classrooms to ensure our children squeeze out every second of learning time, and behind-the-scenes staff who are constantly working to improve internal systems for better student learning.

I watch these moments, these thoughtless gestures and am so thankful to be part of the CIS community.


EDTECH

After an early wake up, the PE team made it to the PE Geek workshop. We were all excited to attend and see how we could integrate IT into elementary PE more effectively.

The PE Geek (Jarrod Robinson) took us through a wide range of apps that can be used in PE to enhance and further student learning. One of the apps we looked at was Coach’s Eye. It allows you to video someone performing a skill or activity and give instant feedback.

QR codes also enable students to access information quickly and easily. We are all excited to see how we can use these apps in elementary PE, so don’t be surprised if you see a QR code from PE sometime soon.

A big thanks to the EdTech team for making this happen.

Dion Norman, TK Technology Integrationist and PYP IT teacher, has also written this blog about Integrating technology in PE. (http://ictforeducators.com/2013/01/integrating-technology-in-pe.html)

Renee Bellavance, PE and French Teacher, Lakeside

In collaboration with the CIS EdTech team and the MYP PE department, a group of health communication researchers from the Wee Kim Wee School of Communication and Information (WKWSCI) at Nanyang Technological University conducted a research study involving middle and high school students in our school. The topic of the honours’ project focused on The Impact of Digital Gaming Technology on Physical Activity and Obesity Related Behaviours.

The research project used digital gaming technology such as X-box Kinect and Wii to interest young children in physical exercise, and create a greater motivation for them to exercise on a regular basis.

X-box Kinect stations were set up in the North Wing and students “physically interacted” with this gaming system during regular PE lessons.

X-box Kinect is also permanently installed at the TK campus.


EDTECH

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EDTECH

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MYP Technology

Better by DesignThe MYP Technology programme at CIS is focused on solving problems in a manner that encourages students’ curiosity, creativity and ingenuity. Using a project-based instructional model, inquiry and problem solving are at the heart of MYP Technology. Students use the design cycle to strategically assist them in investigating problems and designing, planning, creating and evaluating theproducts and solutions that they generate.Recent and future enhancements to the programme are giving students the opportunity to design 21st century solutions to problems. Some of these enhancements include: • Digital Storytelling / Film Making - Creating documentary and short films • Film Editing - iMovie and Adobe Premiere Pro• Digital Imaging - Photo Editing - Adobe Photoshop • Gamification of Learning - MinecraftEdu• Electronic Prototyping - Arduino• Programming - Scratch, Codecademy, Labview• Robotics - Lego Mindstorms EV3 and Tetrix

Improvements to the physical classroom environments have helped to re-define where and how learning takes place. The addition of Node chairs, Idea paint, Green Screens, iMacs and Apple TVs have helped to further engage students and have motivated them to demonstrate their learning in innovative ways. As part of this constantly evolving discipline, teachers Maureen Kennedy, Scott Little, Stephanie Shepherdson and Peter Westall continue to explore the best opportunities for students to learn about technological systems, information and materials in meaningful ways.

Scott Little, Technology Lead Teacher, Lakeside


EDTECHEDTECH

TECHLIFEA group of CIS middle school students attended the TechLIFE conference at the United World College campus. The weekend consisted of a series of workshops put together by students for students to share their passion for technology. Google, Apple and many other leading local technology companies were also there to inspire the next generation of tech leaders. Our students presented and attended session gaming (i.e. Minecraft), Photoshop, filmmaking and basic coding (Scratch) to name a few.

Canadian International School | Husky Herald10

Kim Lelek, Grade 7-9 Technology Teacher, Tanjong Katong


ACADEMICSACADEMICS

Canadian International School | Husky Herald 11

In February, the largest middle school Model UN Conference in the world took place in Singapore. Model UN serves as a terrific platform for students to learn UN protocol, share perspectives, and gain confidence presenting and debating important United Nations issues.

Thirty-seven students from the Canadian International School’s Tanjong Katong and Lakeside campuses attended the conference and spent a weekend debating and passing resolutions pertaining to human rights, ECOSOC, the environment, food security, and the security council. It was a marvellous event with twenty-eight schools from Singapore, China, India, Malaysia and as far away as Jordan and Saudi Arabia taking part.

“At the Model UN, students took on the role of diplomats and debated real world issues such as relief for the East Africa drought, promotion of fair trade and ending tobacco production. Our campus represented Ethiopia and Iraq. Delegates had to write resolutions and make speeches about global issues, whilst keeping in mind the perspective and interests of the country we were representing. It took a lot of research and thought, but with the help of our teachers and our peers we accomplished our task. In conclusion, this was a phenomenal experience. We learned about the world, made friends and gained confidence by taking the risk to speak in front of our committees during debates. We are already looking forward to next year’s conference.”

Alexandra Chapman, Grade 7-2, Delegate representing Ethiopia, Tanjong Katong


ACADEMICS


ACADEMICS

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I was scared when the whistle blew. It meant we had to perform next. I was wondering if people would tap me. What would they say about my performance? Would they like my performance? I wasn’t too sure that it would be a fun experience. Surprisingly time went by quickly when we performed. Sure, we messed up on some of the speeches and we were red in the faces, but we still had a wonderful time performing. Wondering why we have a Wax Museum? Having a Wax Museum is not because we want to show off to our families and friends, neither is it about buying new fancy clothes, or in my case, wearing my mom’s vintage dress. The motive behind having a Wax Museum is to let everyone know the characteristics of our chosen leaders, their story, and how they contributed to our world today. In my opinion, this Wax Museum was successful. We astonished parents, teachers, and students with our hard work and knowledge. Thank you Mr Epp for helping us with our speeches, perfecting our actions and, teaching us essential performance skills. The Wax Museum was a great learning experience and I enjoyed it very much. - Vianna Hopkins, Grade 5-4, Lakeside

In Grade 5, we do projects about the brain, space, and ancient civilisation, etc. This time we looked at leaders and how leaders can be bad like Adolf Hitler or good like Martin Luther King Jr.

My experience with this project was difficult but worthwhile. I was Abraham Lincoln. After writing the speech I made a costume of Abraham Lincoln and it looked great!

Following a lot of preparation, the Wax Museum was finally here. I was scared. I gathered my speech and costume and waited. Then some little girls came up to me and pressed my button; I did my speech as well as I had done it in practice. After my wax museum I was proud of myself and thankful it was over. Then I watched some other people’s speeches! Students in grade 5 acted out everyone from Lady Gaga to Mahatma Gandhi. It was the best experience of my life. - Madeline Hill, Grade 5-3, Lakeside


ACADEMICS


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As were the many students, parents and guests who visited the Grade 6 Exhibition, I was enthralled with the quality and rigour of the research process, the understanding the students demonstrated related to their central idea inquiry and the enthusiasm and confidence of the oral presentations. This year our Central idea was:

“Understanding the cause of conflict can help us reach a peaceful resolution.”

There was a buzz of excitement, energy for learning and tremendous pride evident. The Grade 6 PYP Exhibition is a very impressive celebration of teaching and learning, and certainly the work presented by the students this year has again exemplified the integrity and power of the learning process. Although a specific event of the Grade 6 year, it is also a testimony to the carefully managed learning process of understanding, skills and attitudes progressively developed through the Primary Years Programme, and then consolidated through the Middle Years and Diploma Programmes.

Lakeside PYPKeith Bland, Middle School Principal, Lakeside


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As at Lakeside, TK Grade 6 students had an exhibition for their PYP culminating project. Students worked in groups for many weeks to develop lines of inquiry and to pursue the answers to the central idea: Scientific knowledge is constantly evolving and impacts people’s lives.

Tanjong Katong PYPPaul Hoff, Tanjong Katong Principal

“The Exhibition is truly a

celebration of student learning.”


ACADEMICS


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As a part of our “How the World Works” unit, students took our central idea “Structures are built

with specific materials and designs to serve a purpose”, and focused on our key concepts (Form,

Function and Causation) as well as the ideas of forces, materials, features and shapes, to help

organise our findings. Inspired by drama and the Grade 5 Wax Museum, several students thought

that perhaps they could explain what they had learned through ‘becoming’ their structures (or the

architects who designed them). The class rallied around this idea and we began fitting together lots

of exciting options to have the structures come to life and create our own version of “Night at the

Museum”.

I definitely feel that when you give a big task and set the bar high, you will be amazed at the results

you get from students. This was a perfect example. For a teacher, seeing how excited your students

are when they achieve something they really had to stretch themselves to achieve

is the best feeling in theworld, and what makes

teaching the best jobin the world.

Julie Near, Grade 3-4 Teacher, Lakeside


ARTS

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CIS High School Arts Showcase

This evening was a gallery-like event in which guests strolled through the Senior Library while enjoying presentations from our grades 11 and 12 high school visual and performing arts students. Several students presented culminating projects and performances for both OSSD and IBDP. It was a fantastic venue for guests to enjoy beautiful instrumental music, terrific artwork and skillful improvisation.


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All the world’s a stage and our little children were not merely players but actors made up of conviction.

What do children like? Amongst other things - stories with battles, witches, power and perhaps a moral to learn at the end.

Macbeth had all of the above and these nine children, for a few months, were transported into Macbeth’s dark world but came away understanding that ambition and power will not bring happiness.

From not knowing William Shakespeare to enacting one of his most powerful plays, these 8 and 9-year-old children came a long way. Understanding the play and learning the lines was the easiest part. When to say their lines was a bit of a challenge. Adding to that expression and movement was an uphill task. And if that was not enough, in came the costumes, props and the wireless headsets. The Macbeth performance became their raison d’etre and the students were not daunted by the paraphernalia. They took up every challenge and attended rehearsals punctually. Their commitment and dedication were the key factors to what we saw in the final performance. Shakespeare would have been proud to hear these words of wisdom being recited by these children - “All’s well that ends well!”.

Nandini Jhaveri, French Lead Teacher,Tanjong Katong


ARTS

“Double, double toil andtrouble; Fire burn and

cauldron bubble.” - The Three Witches

ARTS



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“Working” The Musical was a fantastic collaborative project that brought out the talents of many of our CIS High School students. During the ten-week rehearsal period, students learned dance choreography, musical arrangements, and made long lasting friendships which culminated in two 1-hour long performances for audiences of nearly five hundred people each night. The story, which is more like a vignette of pieces narrating stories of the working lives of regular, everyday people, allowed for many students to participate in a number of ways through musical solos, monologues, scenes, dance, backstage help, and artistic design. Most importantly, the story allowed the students and the audience who witnessed to understand the unifying concept of work, thereby engendering a sense of compassion and appreciation for the work that each of us contribute to society. Beyond this important realisation, however, “Working” was an incredible opportunity to make friends, and have fun. Thanks for supporting! Schuyler Mastain, High School Theatre & Language Arts Instructor, Lakeside


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The team fought hard all season, and were well-deserving of the Bronze medal they received in the ACSIS season-ending tournament. Just when they thought the season was over following a very emotional and tough loss to Waseda, the Husky Girls found out that they did, in fact, qualify for tournament play after all. This team of young women did not take this opportunity for granted, and were successful in securing third place in a win vs. UWC-Dover. Our Husky team was full of talent this year, and since we won’t lose any players to graduation, Coaches Little and Ansbacher are looking forward to another exciting season in 2013-14!Coach Simon Thauvette

We capped off our undefeated season with a 36-19 gold medal win against UWCE last Saturday. The boys worked hard all season and learned a lot about the game of basketball and teamwork. I want to thank them for a wonderful season and I am proud that I could coach them. Go Huskies!

Coach Zachary Berezowski

Many of them have not played basketball EVER. But the boys were eager to learn new skills and put 100% forward every practice. There were ups and downs but their determination won out and the boys landed a spot in the play offs at the end of the season. Thanks to an amazing assistant coach, Al and a team of boys willing to learn. See you on the court next year!

Coach Jennifer Ryner

The team played with tremendous enthusiasm and sportsmanship. Their dedication and positive attitude both on and off the court was easy to spot in all the games played this year. Congratulations to all the girls on a great effort this season.

Coaches Arianna Pozzuoli and Shannon MacDonald

12U A Boys Basketball Division 2 Gold Medalists!

19U Girls BasketballDivision 2 Bronze Medalists

12U B Boys Basketball

12U Girls Basketball


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After an almost perfect regular season, we lost to ICS in the ACSIS finals by one point for the gold. Nevertheless, we kept our heads high and eventually made history by being the first team in CIS to partake in international competition. In the end, it is not the close calls, the missed shots, or even the made shots that we will remember but the bond that we all created with our teammates and coaches. Thank you very much to Coach T and Coach Beetz for not only helping us improve as players but also as individuals on and off the court. To our fellow teammates, we wish you all the best and for the last time: Together, We Attack!

Players Kevin Mawardi (23) and Rex Martin (1)

It was a real pleasure coaching this group of young gentlemen this season. The team had a great year showing much growth over the course of the short season. Each member contributed to the overall development of the team with his individual contributions. The boys almost went undefeated during the season with their only loss coming to UWC who also went on to win the league. Great effort boys!

Coach Johan Wolf

We had an amazing turn out this year and, as coaches, were proud of the progress we saw in our players and how the team came together during our relatively short season. It was hard work and required the players to make a commitment that added to their already busy schedules. Each player gave it her all…we practiced every week under the blazing sun and played through pouring rain and storms. But being the staggering CIS students that they are, our team did it all – and came out as champions, with the gold medals to prove it!! It was an amazing experience for all of us and can’t wait for next year.

Coaches Aynsley Smith, Lisa Miller and Katelyn O’Rourke

Throughout the season they displayed a relentless enthusiasm and focus. Their team spirit was evident both during training and during the games, and their ability to support one another through both the losses and the wins was admirable. They scored some remarkable goals, and entertained wherever they went. Well done!

Coach Neil Griffiths

19U A Boys BasketballSilver Medalists

19U B Boys BasketballSilver Medalists

14U Girls SoccerGold Medalists

14U Boys Soccer


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The team has had an extremely successful season. Despite this being CIS’ first action in the Division I league, the boys successfully reached the finals as the top seed. This led to a showdown against SAS, with whom they split their earlier games in league play 1-1. The finals resulted in a 28-26 in the final set. A special note to Mark Nikkel for his leadership and consistent offence and defence skills, and to Kengo Dupuis for his outstanding defensive efforts. An additional round of applause as well to first year player Mrudul Tummala for his hard work and improved offensive skills.

Coach Scott Stewart

We were excited to begin our second season. The interest in the team was tremendous and we had over 20 girls come out for the team. All girls showed great improved throughout the season and we are looking forward to starting training in August. Congratulations to all volleyball enthusiasts!

Coach Renee Bellavance

They had many brilliant swims on Friday nights and Saturday mornings throughout the beginning of 2013. The competitions were tough and swimmers worked hard to win heats with so many setting personal bests at the different meets. All have showed tremendous team spirit during all of the events.

Coach Gemma Wolfe

This was the second year of rugby at CIS. The team committed considerable team and effort to learning the game, and this year their efforts payed off. CIS competed with some very talent competition and won two of their games. They demonstrated consistent improvement from the beginning to the end of the season.

Coach David Jordan

14U Boys VolleyballSilver Medalists 14U Girls Volleyball

CIS Husky Swim Team

19U Rugby Team


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Our White and Red teams both represented CIS TK admirably in Division 3, with the White team placing 4th over all. Most impressive was how much enthusiasm each girl brought to the game, contributing to a very strong team spirit, and an amazing amount of support on, and off, the court. Well done girls!

Coach Sarah Torrible

The team had a strong year where, although at times outmanned, they were never outworked. Although at times facing teams who had much more experience - rarely faced a team with more heart. We won as many as we lost and had fun most every time out.

Coach Lennan MacDonald

We had a great season and made good progress as the season progressed. The team worked hard in practice, working on positional play, and strategies, and as the season went on they became more competitive and supported each other well. Great job boys!

Coach Jamie Yorke

12U Boys Basketball

12U Girls Basketball

10U Boys Soccer


SPORTSSPORTS

Canadian International School | Husky HeraldCanadian International School | Husky Herald

SPORTS

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Several CIS students have taken part in the Metasprint Series. It is a multi-sport challenge for first timers and Singapore's best.

First up was the Aquathon, a 250m swim along Palawan beach, followed by a 2.5km run. Natalie Hill, Alex Dixon and Morgan Meyer took part in the Aquathon and had tremendous races against some very fierce competitors.

Next was the Duathlon. Alex Dixon and Natalie Hill competed in the race consisting of a 1.5km run followed by a 10km bike ride and finishing with another 1.5km run. All had brilliant races!

The third and final part in the Metasprint series was at Changi Beach. Congratulations to Alex Dixon, Daniel Tenenbaum and Victor Rassart who took part in the Triathlon. They showed great tenacity.


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BEYOND THE CLASSROOMBEYOND THE CLASSROOM

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We began our Open Minds adventure at the Science Centre. We were so excited! We learned how some natural resources could actually be used as medicine! We looked, tasted and explored the products of some of the plants in the culinary garden. Finally, we explored rubber plants. Did you know the natural resource of the rubber tree is actually latex? Rubber is the material we make from the natural resource.

We also explored some other natural resources: cotton, coffee and rice and focused on what was the natural resource, what was the material and what was the product. It can sometimes be a little confusing because sometimes the natural resource IS the product! Sometimes the natural resource IS the material.

We applied our new found knowledge to research and discover 3 truths about our resource. Then we had to be creative and think of a false fact. We had to present the posters we made to the whole class. Not only did we work on our research skills, we also strengthened our “Communicator” Learner Profile and “Cooperation” attitude. Next, in the scavenger hunt, everyone was given either the product or the material and had to figure out the natural resource. We then had to find that resource and write down an interesting fact. We were applying the knowledge we had learned without even realizing it!

The final day meant a trip to the Bukit Timah Nature Reserve. We learned about quarries vs. mines and explored the differences in rocks and minerals. During our time at the reserve, we were lucky to see quite a bit of Singapore’s wildlife - geckos and long-tailed macaques. It wasn’t just luck, however, that allowed us to see the Colugo! The Colugo is an endangered animal that is very shy. We were walking so quietly through the rainforest, the family of Colugo stayed where they were!

Amy Long, Grade 2-11 Teacher, Lakeside



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The WAELP (Wednesday Afternoon Experiential Learning Program) at CIS has a community service component. Grade 8 students visit either a local primary school (Shuquin Primary School), a local special school for students with learning disabilities (Grace Orchard School) or St Joseph’s Rest Home.

WAELPExperienceat St. Joseph’s Noa Boon, Grade 8-4, Lakeside

“During WAELP we had a fun and interactive experience with the residents of the St. Joseph’s. This experience was definitely not one to be forgotten! I really enjoyed helping the residents, and pushing them around in their wheelchairs. Out of all the residents I definitely had most interaction with Jude. We talked about a lot of things, well, not really talked, since, he can only spell out the words, but it was really nice to get to know him. The first time we went to St. Joseph’s it was definitely not the same as the last time we went there. I personally found it a bit scary the first time, but later everyone got used to it and I really started to enjoy helping everyone. This WEALP, I think, should start to be available for other grades. It is a great way to help others! This experience, was so great my mum and I are planning to go visit St. Joseph’s together and help out. I also really want my mum to meet Jude. He has such an awesome personality!”


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Congratulations to all students and staff who participated in the Terry Fox run. CIS donated a record breaking $157,495 this year. Many thanks also goes to our supportive parent community who supported their children in this very worthwhile event. The Singapore Cancer Society and the Terry Fox Foundation are very appreciative of our efforts.

LKS Terry Fox QR Code TK Terry Fox QR Code



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CommunityOutreach

News



Several student initiated bake sales were held in the Middle School during the last few months. The students wanted to independently take action for causes in Asia. The bake sales are always a huge success, raising hundreds of dollars and having many satisfied customers.

Two groups of families and teachers, including Dr. Ansbacher and Mr. MacDonald, went to Cambodia to build houses for Tabitha during the March break. Collectively they raised money to build six houses and gave out clothes, toys and school uniforms when they visited students at the People’s Improvement Organisation School (PIO). They also visited and gave out clothes and toys to the AIDS orphanage New Hope for Cambodia Children (NHCC). It was a fantastic experience and many of the families are already talking of going again next year.

All the lost drink bottles and lunch boxes were put on display before the break. Those not picked up – almost 100 bottles, were cleaned and taken to the Jamiyah Singapore orphanage, where they were gratefully received.



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The TK Student Council has been working very hard during the last year and a half to raise money to send two children, Sok Bott and Koa Maly, to school at the People’s Improvement Organization in Cambodia.

These children have dreams like us and want to lead successful lives. We thought, “Can we do something to help them?”

Sok Bott and Koa Maly live and work in Stung Mean Chey, a Phnom Penh dumpsite. It’s a muddy area covered in garbage and waste near the river in the city. People are living in severe poverty with many dependent on picking garbage to survive.

Sok Bott, a16-year-old boy, lived with his grandmother in Kampong Speu province. His parents died when he was 5 years old. After his parents died, his grandmother sent him to live with his aunt in Phnom Penh near the dumpsite. His aunt is a garbage picker. Everyday, Sok Bott would go to work with his aunt at the dumpsite to find plastic cans and bottles to sell for recycling. Unfortunately, she wasn’t able to take care of Sok Bott so she sent him to the PIO to live. Sok Bott now has many friends and is now in Grade 7. His dream is to become a computer teacher in the future.

Koa Maly, a 13-year-old girl, also lives next to the garbage dump mountain at Stung Mean Chey, Phnom Penh. Maly has 4 brothers and 2 sisters. Her mother had to raise the children alone and was not able to take care of them. Maly’s mother is a garbage picker too. Maly went to work with her mother every day to pick up garbage. In early 2010, Maly’s mother has brought Maly and her sister, Voleak, to the PIO because she was worried about the girls’ safety. Maly is very happy that she has a safe place to live, has food to eat and is also able go to school. She doesn’t need to worry about working at the dump anymore. Her dream is to become a doctor in the future.

Think about the world we are now living in, and the countries that are not so safe. People must live in these countries, with some living in extreme poverty. Can we do our best to help them to enjoy the life that all of us are now enjoying?

TK STUDENT COUNCIL SPONSORS CHILDREN IN CAMBODIAAva (Yiwen) Xie Grade 7-1, Student Council, Advisor Jenny Lathrop

Sok Bott

Koa Maly and sister, Vo Leak


STUDENT VOICE

My experience at CIS so far has been

really inspiring. When I first arrived

at CIS I was in awe of this huge

and modern school, and also very

intimidated and nervous. I had no idea

what was in store for me, nor whether

I would fit in with all my classmates.

However, I was thoroughly welcomed

and that lightened the weight on my

shoulders at once! I was so glad that

that I could make friends so fast; the

students and the teachers were kind.

In the beginning I kept getting lost,

but my friends would always find me

(wherever I was!) and bring me back to class.

I think that maybe some students at

CIS don’t realise how amazing it is to

be at CIS, because certainly for me,

CIS is like a school heaven compared

to my old school. My former school

was much smaller, and the class sizes

much bigger; more than thirty kids

in one class. There wasn’t as much

space to play in or sports equipment.

There was much less room to just

hang around at recess or lunch,

and there wasn’t as much technical

equipment such as the MacBook Pros

we use in class!

“I think that there

are so many

opportunities at CIS

and I am sure that I

will benefit a great

deal more from

studying here.” Movingfrom UKLauryn

SherwoodGrade 7-2, Lakes

ide


STUDENT VOICE

36


STUDENT VOICESTUDENT VOICE


I had been a student at TK for 2

years in grades 8 and 9. Those 2

years were the greatest and most

enjoyable 2 years for me in all my

schooling. I feel like there was an

actual connection with teachers

made during that time.

TK has a very small but friendly

community, so moving to the big

campus at Lakeside was a challenge

for me. Since there were so many

new people and the campus was a

lot bigger than I was used to, I was

very intimidated at first. I missed my

teachers and community in TK a lot.

However, I quickly met amazing and

sweet people that I could hang out

with; that was a nice surprise as I had

thought the opposite prior to moving.

The teachers in Lakeside were also

very nice and being in the final year

of MYP, their teaching techniques

evolved from what I was used to.

Lakeside’s facilities are also very well

designed and amazing for students to

experience.

It took some time to fit into larger class

sizes but I definitely feel the advantage

of hearing different opinions from more

people. There are just so many more

ideas, opinions, and experiences to

learn from which is definitely a big

advantage. I feel like I am improving

my study skills and becoming a better

and more focused student. That is a

big milestone for me!

I have learnt a very big lesson in my

life: change is good. Even though

change was hard, it definitely helped

me make improvements in my life

and made me learn more important

lessons such as never giving up and

to always be myself no matter what

anyone says. The goal I have made

and trying to achieve everyday is to

make my parents and myself proud,

TK gave me a chance to do that and

that continues at Lakeside.

I am very excited and nervous but am

really looking forward to Grade 11 next

year, as it is another big milestone

for all of us Grade 10 students as we

enter the Diploma Programme.

Nikita RayGrade 10-7, Lakeside

Movingfrom TK


CELEBRATIONS

BEATFREAKED!An evening of High School performances, a cross between a talent show and Woodstock was held in our auditorium on Friday, 1 March 2013. Students submitted electronic YouTube auditions and everyone enjoyed a terrific night of entertainment.


CELEBRATIONS

38


CELEBRATIONS


CELEBRATIONS

BEATFREAKED!

39

The Middle School Talent Show is a long-standing Middle School tradition, and this year, the tradition continued brilliantly, with a wonderful variety of very entertaining and ‘polished’ performances.


CELEBRATIONS


CELEBRATIONS

40


CELEBRATIONS

41

Chinese New Year at CIS is a wonderful celebration of language and cultural learning. The obvious enthusiasm and engagement of performers and audience members assured it was thoroughly enjoyed by all. The decorations, diversity of the performances and management of a variety of acts certainly reflected a tremendous amount of planning, preparation and hard work.

Gong Xi Fa CaiLakeside

CELEBRATIONS


CELEBRATIONS

42

Chinese New Year Celebration at Tanjong Katong


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Documents

Husky Herald - May 2013 Issue