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English

This week in English, students explored the concept of making inferences. We analyzed text message conversations to deduce the context and underlying dynamics between the characters involved. Additionally, we examined song lyrics, focusing on interpreting the meaning and context of the songs to deepen our understanding of how language conveys emotion and intent.

History

In history, we studied the Cambodian genocide under the regime of Pol Pot. This unit was approached with the utmost seriousness, as students connected the events to the 8 Stages of Genocide framework. By analyzing this tragic period in history, we sought to understand the systematic nature of such atrocities and to identify how similar patterns have manifested in the past and may still occur in the present.

Science

Our science lessons continued with a focus on chemical reactions, specifically endothermic and exothermic processes. Students investigated the defining features of chemical reactions and learned to recognize the evidence that indicates when a chemical reaction has taken place.

PSHE

In PSHE, students set personal goals using the SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) goal system. These goals will be revisited weekly, allowing students to reflect on their progress and take actionable steps to achieve them. This activity aims to promote personal growth and accountability.

Math

Each year group continues to work through their respective units in mathematics. Year 7 students have an assigned unit linked on Google Classroom and should have brought their workbooks home to complete it by Monday.

Physical Education

On Friday, we took advantage of the balmy 8-degree weather and conducted our PE session on the college pitch. The outdoor activity was a refreshing end to the week and allowed students to engage in physical exercise in an invigorating setting.

Enjoy the weekend and see everyone Monday!

Mrs Leah

Back to school! What, how did the time go by so quickly!

This term we are starting with the unit of study ‘Justice’:

We are back in action and week one was no exception:

In English class this week, our middle schoolers are diving into the art of making inferences, and what better way to practice than by using something they know and love: social media. Students are exploring how much information we can gather about someone just by looking at Fakebook posts. Does a stream of beach photos mean they’re into surfing, or do they just love the ocean vibe? What can we tell from their favorite emojis, hashtags, or even the way they write captions? It’s all about reading between the lines and piecing together the clues!

In IMYC, we started our new unit with an eye-opening entry point: exploring constitutions from around the world. Our focus? Citizen rights and how governments uphold—or fail to uphold—them. Using the UN’s Universal Declaration of Human Rights as our guide, students are investigating what people should reasonably expect from their rulers and what happens when those expectations aren’t met.

This framework has led us to some hard but important conversations about minority groups who have faced discrimination and injustice in History. To deepen their understanding, students are beginning a study of the Armenian Genocide, examining how the denial of rights can escalate into devastating consequences. It’s a challenging but vital journey, as we connect history to the values and responsibilities of citizenship today.

In Science this week, we’ve been diving into the fascinating world of enthalpy and chemical reactions. Students are getting to grips with key terminology like endothermic and exothermic, learning how energy is absorbed or released during reactions. To make these concepts stick, we’ve been exploring energy diagrams, breaking down how they represent the flow of energy in different types of reactions. This foundational knowledge will set the stage for next week’s exciting lab, where students will see these reactions in action.

In PSHE this week, we’re focusing on setting ourselves up for success—this term and beyond—by mastering the art of SMART goals! Students are learning how to make their goals Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. Whether it’s improving their grades, making more time for hobbies, or building healthier habits, SMART goals help break down big dreams into manageable steps. Through discussions and activities, students are exploring how this framework can keep them motivated and on track, whether they’re tackling a tricky school project or planning for the future.

Homework Term 2, Week 1

Year 8/9 Math: Per Mr. Green 

Year 7 Math: Spr.1.5 – Use formal methods for subtraction of integers

• Take home your Math Workbook
• Video Lesson linked on Google Classroom
• Follow the lesson, complete the worksheet
• Bring it back MONDAY

English: Inferences

• Complete the photo inference sheet (just like in class) 
• Bring it Back Friday

History: Armenian Genocide Reading Questions

• Take Home History Notebook
• Reread the articles from class
• Answer The Armenian Genocide Questions (with the Ottoman Soldier image) #1-14, and the Primary Source Documents questions on the backside. 
• Bring it back MONDAY

Science: Endothermic and Exothermic Questions, Reading and Questions

• Take home your Science Notebook
• Complete the questions from Thursday’s class notes
• Read Endothermic Vs. Exothermic Reactions and answer the comprehension questions
• Bring Back FRIDAY (BUT you need your notebook in class TUESDAY) 

Have a great weekend and see you Monday,

Mrs. Leah

What a wonderful winter show we had to wrap up the end of Term 1, 2024! I was so very impressed with the performance put on by the 7/8/9 class; it was their original idea and they all made the gag gifts from ‘Temu’!

This last week of school was a lot work; writing some ‘The Night Before Christmas’ inspired poems, finishing our math units and taking the end of term math assessment, a written assessment on the Age of Exploration, a science unit tests on waves, and skit rehearsal! Well done everyone!

Get plenty of rest, enjoy time with your loved ones, and come back next year ready to learn.

Mrs. Leah

The only photo I took this week – writing a test!

We’re in the home stretch of Term 1—just one more week until our well-deserved winter break! Even with the holiday excitement in the air, we’ve stayed as active and engaged as ever.

English:
This week, our young readers wrapped up their novels and dove into some thoughtful reflection and creativity. Each student crafted a book review, summarizing the plot, highlighting their favorite scenes and characters, and sharing whether they’d recommend the story to others. The reviews showcased not only their understanding of the novels but also their personal connections to the stories. To add a splash of creativity, students illustrated their favorite scenes. To wrap up, we took a quiz to assess comprehension. Looking forward to next week as we tie up loose ends and celebrate the fantastic work accomplished this term!

Math:
This week, Year 8 and Year 9 students have been diligently working to complete their final units of the term, while our Year 7 students wrapped up their unit on Tuesday with a culminating test. To finish the term on a strong note, 7s begun a short unit from the Spring term, designed to build on the concepts we’ve just mastered. For homework, each year group will be working on a Math Review Journal. These journals are a fantastic way to revisit key topics, solidify understanding, and practice skills learned in class. It’s also a great opportunity for students to see how far they’ve come this term!

History:
This week, we concluded our unit on the Age of Exploration by examining the North American settlements and colonies established by the French and English. We delved into the unique ways these regions were colonized and compared them to the Spanish approach in the Americas. Students explored the reasons behind the influx of European migrants to the New World and how different economic and cultural factors shaped these colonies.

Our discussions took a serious turn as we examined the devastating realities of the triangular trade. This included the forced transportation of enslaved Africans to the Americas and the unimaginable suffering endured during the Middle Passage. We also discussed how the exploitation of human lives fueled the economic growth of nations at a horrific human cost.

It was a challenging but important lesson, fostering critical thinking and empathy as we reflected on how these events shaped history and continue to influence the world today.

Science:
This week in science, we wrapped up our unit on waves by focusing on thermal energy. Students explored how thermal energy is the movement of particles within a substance and how it transfers between objects or systems. We discussed conduction, convection, and radiation. To bring these concepts to life, we conducted a virtual lab investigating how energy is input and output through different methods. Students experimented with scenarios like heating water, insulating materials, and understanding how energy is conserved or lost in various systems.

I very happy with the effort everyone has shown—let’s finish strong before heading into the holidays!

Mrs. Leah

Oop, sorry all, my post got saved as a draft on Friday!

The class is nearing the conclusion of The Ruby in the Smoke. I’ve been impressed with the students’ consistent effort and initiative in reading the chapters and completing the related questions and activities. Their collaboration and thoughtful engagement with the material have been commendable. Next week, students will complete an in-class book report to demonstrate their understanding of the novel. This assignment will allow them to analyze key themes, characters, and events while practicing their critical thinking and writing skills. I look forward to seeing their insights as we wrap up this unit.

This week, we explored Spain’s empire during the Age of Exploration. Students examined the Spanish encomienda system, discussing its structure and the devastating impact it had on indigenous populations, as well as what followed its eventual end. We also focused on the indigenous peoples of North and South America, highlighting key tribes and civilizations that rose to prominence. A particular focus was placed on the Aztec Empire and its encounter with Hernán Cortés in the early 1500s. The students engaged actively with the material, building a deeper understanding of these significant historical events and their lasting consequences.

This week, students explored electromagnetic waves, building on our previous lessons about light waves. We examined how visible light fits within the broader electromagnetic spectrum, which includes other waves such as radio waves, microwaves, infrared, ultraviolet, X-rays, and gamma rays. Students learned about the characteristics of these waves, including their wavelengths, frequencies, and how they transfer energy through space.

We discussed practical applications of electromagnetic waves, such as their use in communication, medical imaging, and everyday technology, and considered the role of visible light in our understanding of the natural world. Next week, we will conclude our science unit by focusing on thermal energy. This will include investigating heat transfer mechanisms—conduction, convection, and radiation—and exploring real-world examples of how thermal energy impacts both natural systems and human technology.

Hope you all had a great weekend,

Mrs. Leah

This week, we had an amazing field trip to Hero Sports Park, and what an adventure it was. The photos truly speak for themselves! It was a fantastic opportunity for students to bond, get active, and create lasting memories outside the classroom.

In English our reading groups are thriving! Students are making fantastic progress as they work through their assigned chapters, collaboratively answering comprehension questions and summarizing key details. To deepen their engagement, they’ve been participating in creative activities like writing advice letters from a character’s point of view or crafting interview questions for a fun game of Hot Seat. It’s wonderful to see everyone so immersed in their novels and discussions; it makes it easier for me to check in on notebooks, monitor reading progress, and support the learning of three different novels in a single class session!

This week in History, we dove into the Age of Exploration, exploring the reasons behind European interest in finding new trade routes to Asia and the motivations that fueled their journeys to uncharted lands. We discussed key figures of the era, including Prince Henry the Navigator, Vasco da Gama, Ferdinand Magellan, and, of course, Christopher Columbus.

Our discussions centered on the three Gs: Gold, Glory, and God, analyzing how the desire for wealth, personal and national fame, and the spread of religion drove these explorers to take significant risks. We will also consider how these motivations shaped the interactions between Europeans and the new lands and peoples they encountered next week.

In Science this week, we continued our study of waves with a focus on light waves. We explored the fascinating behaviors of light, particularly how it interacts with different surfaces and materials through reflection and refraction. We examined how light behaves when it encounters clear, opaque, and translucent materials. Next week, we’ll expand our exploration to the light color spectrum and its connection to electromagnetic waves. This will provide us with insights into how light carries energy across different wavelengths and how it shapes the world around us.

In PSHE, we continued our exploration of the future of work, but this week we took a step back to examine how the COVID-19 pandemic affected workers during lockdowns. Students analyzed the experiences of three different workers, considering how the situation impacted their jobs, well-being, and industries. Through these perspectives, we discussed who benefited during this challenging time, the losses many faced, and the unexpected opportunities that emerged. This critical look at the pandemic’s effects helped students develop a deeper understanding of resilience, adaptability, and how global events can reshape the world of work.

This week, we made great progress preparing for the winter show. Students worked collaboratively to write a creative script, gather images, and scale and print them for props. Some students used their Photoshop skills or artistic talents to create items for the performance. Now that the physical preparations are complete, we can focus on practicing and perfecting the show in the weeks ahead. I’m so impressed with the teamwork and motivation everyone has shown—it’s inspiring to see how much fun they’re having while putting together something to entertain and delight their classmates.

Homework includes a math review for the steps covered this week for all year groups, chapter reading and any catch up activities in reading notebooks for English, and a short passage on the 3 G’s for review. Students still write week summary and homework in their planners, be sure to take a peek to help keep students accountable for their work!

Have a great weekend,

Mrs. Leah

Reminder:
Next Tuesday is our class trip! Please make sure to submit your payment to the office by Monday to secure your spot. It’s going to be a fun and and we don’t want anyone to miss out!

Here’s a look at the exciting learning adventures we embarked on this week:

English:
Year 7 and 8 students have started their reading journey with Ruby in the Smoke, while the Year 9 students are diving into Splendors and Glooms. In small assigned groups, they are reading, discussing, and answering comprehension questions to deepen their understanding. They’re also completing fun, creative activities based on the text. I’m moving between groups, checking in to offer guidance and answer questions, but the real magic happens with students taking the lead. There is reading responsibility each night, including homework activities. Students must complete their reading and notebook work, and bring it to class each day to keep pace with the book and help the reading group, so be sure to remind your student to take their book and notebook to school!

History:
In history, we launched our new unit on The Age of Exploration with an exciting role-play activity. Each group represented a different nation, debating whether to invest in overseas expeditions based on their resources, potential risks, and expected gains. Students put themselves in the shoes of historical leaders, weighing the opportunities and challenges of exploration. It was a great way to get everyone thinking critically and setting the stage for the rest of the unit.

Science:
This week in science, we explored the fascinating world of sound waves. Students participated in a station-based lab, where they experimented with different concepts like frequency, amplitude, and the behavior of sound in various mediums. The hands-on activities and experiments made abstract concepts come to life.

PSHE:
In PSHE, we’ve been looking at the future of work and the changes predicted in the job market. We’ve discussed the key skills needed to thrive, such as creativity, critical thinking, communication, and flexibility—all of which are crucial for success not only in future careers but also right now in the classroom! Students have been reflecting on how they can apply these skills in their daily learning and beyond.

Classroom Respect Reminder:
This week, we noticed that the classroom space hasn’t been treated with the respect it deserves. Trash has been left on tables and the floor, and supplies are not being put away properly. Even though each student has their own caddy for belongings, supplies are disappearing. Let’s all work together to be more responsible and mindful of our learning space. A clean and organized classroom benefits everyone!

Looking ahead, we’ll continue building on these foundations, diving deeper into our reading, history, and science topics. Have a great weekend and see everyone Monday,

Mrs. Leah

Firstly, please click this link to sign up for the class field trip MONDAY NOVEMBER 18th. Students must have permission to go and submit 13,000 won to the office BEFORE the trip date. Please see the link for more details.

This week students jumped back into action after a nice week off.

In English we will do a novel study for the rest of the term. Years 7 and 8 will read Philip Pullman’s Ruby in the Smoke, and Year 9 will read Laura Amy Schiltz’ Splendors and Glooms. As both are mystery novels set in Victorian England, this week small groups conducted research on various topics about the era. The final result was an infographic poster to share knowledge and help inform classmates about their topic to help understand the context of what we will be reading. They all turned out wonderful and are on display in the upstairs hallway. In the homework there is a reading comprehension of Victorian workhouses with questions.

As it was the beginning of a new IMYC unit, students spend two days piecing together a mystery about a financial crime. Students worked together to put together shredded documents, analyze their contents, and deduct who was responsible for buying a list of personal identifications and using them to apply for fake loans. I was really impressed how invested students were in this scenario and their efforts as a team to do what felt like an impossible task. In the end, most of us figured it out and wouldn’t you believe it, the culprit was Amanda!

We started our science unit on Wednesday; we will be looking at waves until the end of the term and started with an overview of different wave types. We looked at the different parts of transitional and longitudinal waves and used The University of Colorado’s PHET Lab simulations top play with the affects of adjusting frequency and amplitude on the wave. In the homework there is some basic labeling and matching exercises; if students did not take their class notes home, they are more than welcome to use the internet to refresh their memories.

In math Year 9s started their unit on constructing lines and angles, 8s started their unit on data representation, and year7s finished their unit on place value nd ordering integers and decimals. 7s unit test was on Thursday and students were able to take their math book and test home with the homework. They started their new unit on fractions, decimals, and percentages this Friday as well.

Students took home their full IMYC notebooks from the first unit, and a stack of other work including homework and PSHE stuff. Feel free to look over, keep or recycle.

Have a wonderful weekend and see you Monday!

Mrs. Leah

This week we wrapped up our Discovery unit!

In English, we explored Walter de la Mare’s The Listeners, with students creating imaginative backstories to unravel the mystery of the poem’s eerie events. We also discussed Emily Brontë and her renowned novel, Wuthering Heights. After reading an excerpt from Chapter One, we examined how Brontë builds fear and intensity, and broke down the epic tale of vengeance that drives the plot.

On Friday, students had the chance to share a bit about the authors they’ve been researching for their six-week homework project. Hats off to those who came well-prepared, showing strong insights into their chosen authors and their works. For others, it was a learning moment on the value of planning and preparation!

Year 7s are in the midst of their math unit and received a review packet to keep skills sharp over the break. Year 8s and 9s finished off with a unit test, putting math on pause until November. And good news: there’s no homework for this break!

In Geography and Design and Technology, students completed some long-term projects. Geography took us on a global tour as students presented their selected countries, aiming to convince us to plan a visit! Meanwhile, in Design, students collaborated on Padlet to research and brainstorm innovative solutions to transportation challenges. They researched current issues, sketched solutions, found real-world parallels, and reflected on their learning. Some students truly took pride in their work, while others found it challenging to meet all requirements—but it’s all part of the growth process. Feel free to check out their projects!

Padlet Site

In History, we explored various forms of democracy practiced today, comparing and contrasting direct and indirect democracy, constitutional democracy versus constitutional republics, and presidential versus parliamentary systems. We attempted to wrap up with a fun Kahoot game, but it was cut short due to a bit too much competitive enthusiasm. As a final activity, students created digital posters that compared two democratic systems, which served as their end-of-unit project.

Friday was a blast with our Halloween Party, thanks to our fantastic PTA! Big thanks to all the parents who contributed, setting up, organizing, and cleaning up. Everyone had a great time, and we made plenty of fun memories!

Enjoy your week off,

Mrs. Leah

We made it through a full week! No red days in sight… Next week is also exciting as we have the PTA Halloween Part on Friday afternoon as well a mask competition. All students were given a blank paper plate with a strap; it’s up to students to let their creativity shine! Please bring them back by next Friday.

In English we spent some time with Percy Shelley’s Ozymandias poem. Students annotated the poem, identified it’s parts, identified words denoting the contrast of power and weakness, and discussed the themes and messages. Then, they made poster with their interpretation of the imagery. I was also super happy that everyone brought their work back when unfinished posters were assigned as homework, yes!

We then took a look at Shakespeare’s a Midsummer’s Night Eve and read two key extracts from the play, including Oberon’s monologue in Act 2. After translating it into modern prose to better understand the meaning, we compared 5 versions of the play. Each video was either a film, stage play, or opera was set in different places and times, costumed the actors differently, and portrayed Oberon in a very different light. We had a lot of fun discussing which was the best (and worse!) and why.

Please keep in mind that next Friday the final submission for the English research project is due. Students received a final submission handout to ensure they submit their reports appropriately. Students also took home their full English notebooks. Inside is their essay writing work and the first part of our English survey unit. Keep or dispose at your discretion.

In History we started our unit on Democracy. Monday we looked at the origins of democracy in ancient Athens, arising after a tumultuous period of being led by aristocrats. Students were introduced to key figures and their ideas to make the city-state fair to the public. We did some roleplay with direct democracy, and how trials were conducted in the time period. While much different than today, students made connections to the ideas of 500BC to democratic practices today. In the homework there is a reading passage that goes over mush of our lesson, complete with comprehension questions to ensure understanding.

On Wednesday we jumped to 1215, Medieval England. Students engaged in a read-around where small groups visited different read passage stations linking together the story of King John trying to satisfied restless barons. The result was the Magna Carta, a document that came to be the basis of England’s Parliamentary system and the beginnings of the ideas of individual liberties. After answering questions to solidify their understanding of events, we took a Kahoot quiz to much student regale.

In Design and Technology, students continued to work on their projects about future transportation. This week they brainstormed solutions to the problems them came up with and researched on their mode of transport. Then, they drew images of their proposed solutions and uploaded them to Padlet with a description of their ideas. Thursday, students began to research innovations being made by others entrepreneurs and companies on the very problems they tried to find solutions for. The idea is to connect their own process of ideation with the ideas, designs, and implementations of others in the real world. So far, the Padlet is coming along nicely and we can’t wait to share it.

Finally, students have also been working on a country report in Geography. It’s been a long process as its only an hour a week. The final submission in due on Monday morning; students are aware that their report packet is due along with their tourism slide show submitted on the Google classroom!

Everyone have a nice weekend, stay dry, work on your costumes and masks for Halloween, and see everyone next week!

Mrs. Leah