Grade 6 - Dr. Holger Meinberg

Grade 6 students continued their exploration of how batteries function, engaging in hands-on activities to determine the voltage across various metals inserted into a potato (potato hedge hock). They also learned the correct usage of a diode to illuminate it. Additionally, students gained insights into properly connecting multiple potato batteries in series to enhance the resulting voltage, ultimately causing the diode to emit a faint glow.
During the potato battery activity, some groups effortlessly achieved their objectives, while others, neglecting their notes and overlooking details, encountered difficulties. This experience underscored the importance of using notes, attentively following instructions, and reading the information on the board before collaborating in group work.

Upon obtaining the necessary experimental data, students proceeded to graph and analyze the results, retroactively assigning variables after completing the experiment.

Grade 7 - Ms. Heather Exum

Ms. Exum's 7th-grade students demonstrated their dedication to understanding animal adaptations as they continued to engage in focused practice sessions. Through hands-on activities and discussions, the students explored the intricate ways in which animals adapt to their environments. Ms. Exum skillfully guided them through the complexities of these biological concepts, fostering an environment of curiosity and inquiry. Additionally, the class took time to review and improve their skills in writing labs. Ms. Exum, recognizing the importance of effective scientific communication, encouraged students to articulate their findings clearly and concisely. The combination of practical exploration and refining scientific writing skills ensured a holistic learning experience for the 7th-grade students under Ms. Exum's guidance.

Grade 8-1   Dr. Holger Meinberg

Grade 8 students delved into the study of reflection at concave mirrors, employing the construction of ray diagrams to determine the image's location, orientation, size, and type. They extensively practiced this technique, familiarizing themselves with focal points, centers of curvature, and principal axes. Extending the reflected ray behind the mirror in a dashed line allowed them to identify the virtual image.
They then utilized a simulation to initiate the exploration of information related to convex lenses, which will be further developed next week, including the study of concave lenses.
As the week concluded, students faced a quiz covering reflection in different types of mirrors. The remaining time was dedicated to reinforcing awareness of their upcoming summative assignment, due after the holidays for Chinese New Year. 

Grade 8-2   Ms. Heather Exum

Grade 8 students delved into the study of reflection at concave mirrors, employing the construction of ray diagrams to determine the image's location, orientation, size, and type. They extensively practiced this technique, familiarizing themselves with focal points, centers of curvature, and principal axes. Extending the reflected ray behind the mirror in a dashed line allowed them to identify the virtual image.

Following this, students created ray diagrams for convex mirrors, focusing on the same criteria. They then utilized a simulation to initiate the exploration of information related to convex lenses, which will be further developed next week, including the study of concave lenses.
As the week concluded, students faced a quiz covering reflection in different types of mirrors. The remaining time was dedicated to reinforcing awareness of their upcoming summative assignment, due after the holidays for Chinese New Year. Additionally, they were briefed on the task descriptors that would be used to grade their assignments.

Grade 9 - Ms. Heather Exum

Ms. Exum's 9th-grade students showcased their scientific acumen as they completed the data collection phase of a practice analysis focused on hydrogen bonds. With precision and attention to detail, each student diligently gathered data, contributing to a robust dataset for analysis. Ms. Exum, recognizing the diverse academic strengths within her class, implemented a differentiated approach. Advanced students eagerly undertook extension activities, delving deeper into the complexities of hydrogen bonding, showcasing their ability to apply and extend their scientific knowledge. This tailored approach not only allowed every student to engage meaningfully with the material but also fostered a supportive and intellectually stimulating classroom environment. Ms. Exum's commitment to differentiation acknowledged and nurtured the diverse talents within her 9th-grade cohort.

Grade 10 - Mr. Nick Smith

The week started with a thorough review of the recent exam. Students were asked to check that grading was fair and then identify their weaknesses and areas that they should revise. Overall the exams were well done and results as expected.
The class then moved onto their new topic of Mendelian Genetics. Students started with a fun lesson identifying some of their particular traits (characteristics) and practiced collating data and graphing skills. They were then introduced to Mendel and his pioneering work in Heredity.

Biology Class - Grade 11 - Ms. Marina Baltikian

This week in our Biology class, we commenced Theme D, Concept D1.1, focusing on DNA replication. Our exploration began with an in-depth examination of the various modes of DNA replication, including semi-conservative, conservative, and dispersive mechanisms. The week's highlight was our exploration of the Meselson-Stahl experiment, providing valuable insights into the validation of the semi-conservative model. Later, we delved into the intricate details of DNA replication, dissecting the process and examining the roles of enzymes involved in unwinding, replicating, and resealing DNA strands. The class demonstrated commendable enthusiasm and participation throughout, showcasing a keen interest in unraveling the intricacies of DNA replication.

Biology Class - Grade 12 - Ms. Marina Baltikian

This week marked the beginning of an exciting new unit in DP2 Biology - Genetics. It has been a week filled with exploration and engagement as we delved into fundamental concepts such as mitosis, meiosis, and the cell cycle. Our discussions on mitosis focused on the intricacies of cell division, emphasizing its role in growth, repair, and maintenance of organisms. Students actively participated in dissecting the stages of mitosis, gaining a deeper understanding of this essential process. Moving forward, our exploration extended to meiosis, unraveling the unique aspects of cell division crucial for the formation of gametes. The intricate dance of chromosomes during meiosis and its significance in genetic diversity were thoroughly examined, sparking thoughtful discussions within the class. Additionally, we delved into the cell cycle, emphasizing the regulated sequence of events governing a cell's life. The interconnectedness of these concepts was evident as students grasped the importance of mitosis and meiosis in the broader context of cellular function.

Chemistry Class - Grade 11 - Mr. Nick Smith

The week started with a thorough review of the recent exam. Students were asked to check that grading was fair and then identify their weaknesses and areas that they should revise. Overall the exams were below my expectations and we discussed some strategies to improve study habits and retention of knowledge. A practical laboratory was held to learn how to make melting point determinations and perform Paper Chromatography. Classes were partially disrupted by the Basketball competition and ELPA testing.

Chemistry Class - Grade 12 - Mr. Nick Smith

The week started with a thorough review of the recent exam. Students were asked to check that grading was fair and then identify their weaknesses and areas that they should revise. Overall the exams results were within expectations. Theory has now moved onto Standard Level Organic Chemistry. In this Series of Lesson the students learn about homologous series, functional groups and naming conventions. Classes started with an introduction to hydrocarbons. The differences between aliphatic and aromatic compounds was covered and naming of alkanes was introduced.

ESS Class - Grade 11 - Mr. Samuel Ward

This week for ESS grade 11, we started with reviewing the midterm and making corrections. We then moved on to talking about communities and ecosystems. Lastly we continued work on our practical activity of making a small "mesocosm", basically an ecosystem in a jar, complete with plant and earthworm and detritus.

ESS Class - Grade 12 - Mr. Samuel Ward

This week, Grade 12 students reviewed their midterm and made corrections. We then reviewed 7.3 and prepared to start our last topic 8 about human populations and resource use.

Physics Class - Grade 11 - Mr. Geofrey Kivisha

Our Grade 11 class discussed waves using student-centered learning strategies this past week. Using research and scaffolding, students actively investigated the variety of waves. They conducted detailed research, identifying each aspect of mechanical, electromagnetic, and matter waves. The task covered exploring electromagnetic frequencies and wavelengths, ending in a concentration on visible light. This practical method fostered critical thinking abilities in addition to deepening understanding. The week was evidence of our dedication to creating an engaging and dynamic learning environment where students are empowered to take charge of their education and develop a sincere curiosity about the world around them.

Physics Class - Grade 12 - Mr. Geofrey Kivisha

This week in Grade 12 Physics, students learned a lot about capacitors and how they work. They learned more about how the capacitors are made and what affects their capacitance. Using what they knew about math, they derived equations for capacitors' charging and discharging stages. This helped them to work on their critical problem-solving skills. They started by reviewing all of magnetism, which set a good foundation for the next lessons. Then, they moved on to a new topic: electromagnetic induction. The week helped them understand the ideas better and sharpened their analytical skills, preparing them for the difficulties of more advanced physics ideas.

SEHS Class - Grade 12- Mr. Donavan Van Vuuren

This week in DP Sports Science, students dedicated time to reviewing their exams. They meticulously examined the mark schemes of both paper 1 and paper 2, with the objective of identifying areas of improvement and gaining a clearer understanding of IB examiners' expectations. The focus was on refining their answering techniques based on this insightful analysis. Over the next couple of weeks, students will be putting the finishing touches on their IA's, integrating the knowledge and insights gained from the exam review process.

G6 (Mr. Du & Ms. Fiona)

In Language and Literature class, grade 6 students have finished learning unit 2 Expressing Feeling and Ambitions and completed their summative assessments. After the exams, students reflected on their learning and exams. For example, students thought about what areas they need to work harder on, what difficulties they still have, why that happened, and how to overcome these difficulties, as well as the areas they did well and need to keep. By doing this, students practiced their reflective skills and have a clearer thought about the next step to improve their mandarin.

G6 (Ms. Echo)

In Ms. Echo’s class, grade 6 language acquisition phase 4 students have finished the final week of the semester and now we are about to celebrate the Spring Festival. In the process of making Chinese New Year decorations, the sixth-grade students shared their family's customs and interesting stories about the Spring Festival. We also learned to recognize and read New Year greetings in Chinese. After completing the decorations, the students hung these beautiful wishes at the entrance of each classroom.

G7 (Ms. Summer & Ms.Miko)

This week in Ms. Miko's and Ms. Summer's grade 7 Chinese Literature classes, students, collaboratively, practiced for the upcoming and widely anticipated Chinese play. They refined their character roles, memorized their lines, and acted like professionals when in scene. I am proud of the learners’ effort and dedication to perfecting the play, and look forward to showing it to one and all.

G7 (Ms. Lisa)

In Ms. Lisa’s G.7 Mandarin Language Acquisition class, we have been learning the topic ‘Genius Pianist’ this week. Students learned new words, phrases and sentence patterns in various activities. Then they had a presentation to introduce a famous person they like, including the famous person’s name, appearance, personality, hobbies, etc. Students developed their communication skills in oral reports.  They also did the artwork for the Chinese New Year.

G8 (Ms. Tina & Ms. Lisa)

In Ms. Lisa & Ms. Tina G.8 Chinese language and literature class, we had a summative assessment of Criteria B, C & D this week. Students need to write prose on the given topic. The communication skills of students were examined through the writing assessment. After finishing the assessment, students did the decoration for the Chinese New Year too.

Grade 9

In grade 9, with the exams behind them, the students shifted their focus towards an exciting upcoming event: the Spring Festival performance of "Dragon and Lion Dance." They worked collaboratively, supporting and encouraging each other throughout the process. The rehearsals were filled with enthusiasm, as the students embraced the cultural significance of the dance and aimed to deliver an outstanding performance. Through this experience, they gained a deeper sense of cultural understanding.

G10 (Ms. Echo & Ms.Miko)

In Ms. Echo and Miko's grade 10 language literature completed the final exams, to give students a clear understanding of their own compositions and the overall class performance, we anonymized and numbered everyone's papers. Each student was required to read and evaluate three papers from their classmates based on four criteria and provide brief explanations for their scores. After the anonymous peer evaluation, students were asked to reflect on their own papers and identify areas for improvement. Through this activity, students can gain a multi-perspective understanding of the strengths and weaknesses in their writing, thereby better preparing themselves for future studies.

G12 Chinese A (Ms. Michelle)

In Ms. Michelle’s G12 Chinese A class, students had a peer-assessment on their Summative assessment of Paper2.  We had three rounds of peer assessments and each comments need to include both achievement and things that need to be improved. After that, they had a self-reflection on their own work. Ms. Michelle also gave them feedback on their essays and had a one-on-one talk to help them improve.

G12 Chinese B (Ms. Fiona)

In Ms. Fiona’s Mandarin B class, the students have just finished their mid-term exams. I gathered with them to discuss the issues from the exams and had them correct their mistakes. The students have already started studying the final theme Sharing the Planet, and to achieve good grades, they focus on practicing reading and writing skills.

Pre-K

Polly Coronel and Kirsten Hernandez

This week, we explored the world of farm animals. The students engaged in a creative activity where they painted paper plates pink and crafted cute pig faces, which enhanced their sensory exploration, boosted language development, improved fine motor skills, and encouraged creativity and self-expression. Students also made adorable chickens using paper plates, googly eyes, and colored paper. We also took the opportunity to talk about farms and why chickens are important. In addition,they engaged in a wonderful sensory activity. They explored the concept of sheep's wool using fluffy cotton balls. The children had a great time feeling and touching the soft texture, experiencing the different sensations it provided. As part of our fine motor skills development, we introduced child-safe scissors for the children to practice cutting the cotton balls into smaller pieces. It was a fantastic day of hands-on learning and skill-building in our classroom.

K1

Erin Wang and Sati Tadevosyan

In our Inquiry class, we began exploring photography. The most exciting part of the week was Harry's mom visiting us as a guest speaker. She shared a fascinating story called "Joseph had a little overcoat" and talked about illustration art. In our Language Arts class, we are currently learning the sounds of "c" and "k" through Jolly Phonics. We went on a letter scavenger hunt and used playdough to create things that start with these letters, such as cat, kite, carrot, cake, candles, and key. In Math, our focus was on identifying and creating patterns.

K2

Katie Reddington, Sue MacDonald and Mika Allicer 

K2s have had a wonderful time continuing their exploration of celebrations around the world and how people express themselves through these festivities. Everyone is so excited about the upcoming Chinese New Year celbration so we’ve focused on learning more about. Students learned the story about how the Jade Emperor decided which animals would be included in the Chinese Zodiac and afterwards, made crafts associated with their personal Zodiac animal. K2s unleashed their creativity when they made amazing dragons and lanterns to mark the upcoming celebrations!

K3

Dean Fletes and Anuschka Etsebeth

K3 enjoyed a week packed with new and exciting adventures.

We began our 'BIG SCHOOL' experience by visiting the Information and Communication Technology Lab (ICT Lab) and the Design Lab in the main building. They were blown away by the technology used in the ICT lab and had many questions!  In the Design Lab, students saw the design teacher cut and smooth a piece of wood! Everything we learned in class came to life!

It was time to take off our safety goggles and let's go Maple Dragons! It's time for basketball! K3 did not disappoint, demonstrating incredible team spirit by cheering on our school's squad from start to finish.  

Finally, we ended with an excellent production hosted by PYP. Their gaze was fixed on the stage, and they completely immersed themselves in the story, of Mulan.

K1 (Yani Wang)

In this week's K1 German class, we first reviewed the shapes we have learned, and then added ovals, hearts and stars. The students learned about the characteristics of the new shapes and then used their fingers to spell out various shapes. For example, the index finger and middle finger could spell a square, the thumb and index finger could spell a rectangle, and a heart, etc. We have prepared some pictures for students to find familiar shapes and count how many there are. Besides shapes, our other theme is lines. Including straight lines, curves, wavy lines, dotted lines, spiral lines, etc. Students follow the lines with their fingers on the whiteboard or draw on the whiteboard themselves. This week’s craft is to draw different lines on colored paper and make Chinese New Year red lanterns.

K2 (Yani Wang)

In this week's K2 German class, we tried to count in German to 100. We did some understanding of integers, such as 20,30,40, etc. and the students looked at the picture cards to practice reading numbers. We put the winter items we learned on a picture. Students colored and counted items and wrote down numbers.

In addition to numbers, we also started another theme "About Chinese Spring Festival". We introduced the Chinese dragon, what it looks like, what it represents, and where we can see them. This week's craft is to decorate the Chinese New Year with the Chinese character "福”.

K3 (Yani Wang)

This week our K3 German class students began to practice completing the entire calendar board independently. Including the day of the week, the day of the month, the year, the weather and the season. We also learned about our home country Germany. First, we learned about the German flag, and the students mastered the order of the three colors on the flag.

We made handmade orange decorations for the upcoming Chinese New Year. Because oranges represent good luck in China. And began to introduce some interesting traditional customs related to the Chinese New Year.

We learned about the new letter G this week, including its upper and lower case and spelling.