SPRING MAP TESTS (13 May - 6 June) 

MAP testing has begun!

All Grade 6 -10 students will sit for the Spring MAP tests from Monday 13 May – Thursday 6 June 2024. 

Here are some resources that parents can use to better understand MAP testing:

• MAP Family Fact Sheet

• 12 common questions parents ask about MAP Growth

• Parent Information Guide on MAPs testing

Please take note of the following important information:

• Students should be present for all MAP tests. 

• Each student will need their own device. There will be no devices available on loan from the school IT department. 

• Your child has been working with their advisory teachers and the IT Department to install 2 NWEA MAP apps on their devices to ensure the security of the test taking protocols and reliability of our MAP data.

• Please read through the attached document that will give you important information on device readiness for MAP testing. 

• Please confirm with your child that they have installed the 2 NWEA apps and if not read through the attached document on what to do.

• Students who have not installed the apps or taken the steps outlined in the attached document, may not be able to access the MAP tests on their device.

• Please note that MAP test results are used to determine which course pathways students can select or gain entry to, in English, Math, Science and Social Studies.

• Students who are currently receiving support from the Inclusion department will be monitored during each test session to ensure that all students can access the tests. 

• The average time taken to complete each test is 60-80 minutes. We have provided students with 120 minutes for all testing sessions to ensure that they have sufficient time. 

It is therefore important that ALL students should:

• Stay focused throughout the duration of the test.

• Complete the test during the allocated blocks. 

• Ensure that all applications and tabs are closed. The only tab that should be opened is the one being used for MAP testing.  Not doing this will be considered academic dishonesty. 

• Read each question carefully and answer the question without wasting time.

• Not guess or rush through questions. The MAP system can pick up rapid guessing and will automatically lock a student out of the test if the student rushes through 3 questions in a row, without spending time to read and understand the questions. The test can be unlocked by the teacher after a few minutes.

• Be well rested and arrive for each test on time. There is no need to prepare for MAP tests as this will cause the results to be inaccurate. 

Dear Families,

We started our final round of MAP testing on Monday in the auditorium. It was our first time doing it all together as a grade in the auditorium. The MAP schedule is below.

We are getting ready for our GEMS review next week. This review is mainly focused on teaching and learning. Our reviewers will be in and out of lessons all day and will provide feedback on what we are doing well and how we can be better. 

On Monday we will have a Lockdown Drill at 8:30AM. A Lockdown is a safety procedure that many schools in the UAE and beyond practice routinely. We practice this drill once per year as a routine. Just like a fire drill, the adults in the building learn how to organize students and teach everyone how to be quiet and out of sight. 

Reminders:

• Monday May 20th is a blue week- Monday starts with G block. 

• May 13-June 6 Final round of MAP testing.

Have a great weekend!

Ms. Williams 

American University of Sharjah Visit

On Tuesday,  May 21st  from 8:00-9:00, GAA will be hosting a visit with American University of Sharjah.  

The location of the visit will be in the Secondary Library. Parents are welcome.

HS Counselors

BNS Instagram Page is Now Live! Follow them https://www.instagram.com/buddy_networking_system_/ 

Student-founded BNS (Buddy network system) recognizes the importance of friendships and supports new students at school. This innovative platform aims to enhance the experience of the buddy student and new students at GAA. As a Buddy, the student will play a crucial role in supporting and mentoring new students. The primary responsibility will be to provide guidance, make new friends, and assist the students during their first week and if required throughout the school year. 

Dear Students, Parents, and Teachers,

As we gear up for an exciting month of June, filled with enriching activities and friendly competitions, we are thrilled to announce two major events that will be taking place:

Fitness Expo hosted by Sports Science Students

• Date: Week of June 10th

• Venue: MPR

• Audience: Grades 8-11 Students

Description: Our Sports Science students are all set to delve deep into the world of athletic performance, fitness testing, and the latest technologies in sports. This interactive expo promises to be an eye-opener for all attendees, offering insights into how science and technology intersect with sports. Don't miss this chance to explore various facets of sports science firsthand!

Sports Events Face-Off: Students vs. Teachers

• Date: Week of June 10th

• Venue: Gym & Field

• Audience: High School Students and Teachers

Description: Get ready for some thrilling showdowns as our weightlifting and fitness class present a series of sports events where high school students will compete head-to-head against our esteemed teachers. The lineup includes the GAA Crossfit Games, a powerlifting meet, the GAA Combine challenge, and a football/dodgeball tournament. It's a battle of skills, teamwork, and sportsmanship that you wouldn't want to miss!

These events are not just about competition; they are opportunities for learning, growth, and building a sense of camaraderie within our school community. We encourage everyone to participate, cheer on your peers, and celebrate the spirit of sports together. Click this link to select which event you would be interested in attending.

Mark your calendars and stay tuned for more details coming soon. Let's make June a month to remember with fitness, fun, and friendly competition!

قام قسم التربية الإسلامية بعمل معرض يهدف الى توفير فهم وتقدير أعمق للقيم الإسلاميَّة المُستنبطة من القصص الإسلاميَّة والآيات الكريمة والسُّنَّة النبويَّة وعرضها بطريقة إيجابية بسيطة تُمكن المُتعلم من فهم تعاليم دينه وقيمهِ وموروثه الإسلامي بشكل عصري وحديث ومتأصل بجذوره العميقة. 

This exhibition aims to provide a deeper understanding and appreciation of Islamic culture and traditions. 

Our students had been working hard to prepare an engaging and informative exhibition that showcases various aspects of Islamic art, history, and culture. 

• May 22-23 - Middle and High School Arabic Exhibition

• May 23 - Junior Varsity and Varsity Athletics Banquet @5:30pm

• May 24 - Pizza and Popsicle Day by GAAPA and Booster Club

• May 25 - Garage/Entrepreneur Sale and Movie Night @4:30pm onwards, Movie Screening @6pm.

• May 28 - Senior Gratitude and Senior Walk

• May 30 - Senior Graduation Ceremony

• June 3-7 - EduTech Book Fair

• June 3-7 - Teacher/Staff Appreciation Week by GAAPA

• June 4 - GAAPA Board Voting Closes

• June 6 - Band 1 Concert

• June 13 - Grade 8 Promotion Ceremony @9am

• June 28 - LAST DAY OF SCHOOL