Introducing our New Reading Test

At this time of the year, we are usually preparing for the second round of MAP reading tests for our students in Grades 6-10. However, we have recently made the decision to change from the MAP to a reading test by GL Assessments called the NGRT.

What is the NGRT?

The New Group Reading Test (NGRT) is a standardised assessment to measure reading skills of students aged 5-16 years against the national average. Through a variety of exercises, NGRT can assess students’ knowledge of phonics, comprehension, decoding ability, vocabulary, grammatical knowledge, deduction and inference skills, authorial intent, and ability to deal with figurative and idiomatic language (depending on the age of the student and test selected). Tasks include sentence completion, passage comprehension and phonic exercises. NGRT tests not just the ability of students to decode what they read, but also to comprehend and apply meaning.

Why has the school changed to NGRT?

We believe the NGRT is a more accessible test for our students. It takes considerably less time to complete (approximately 30mins) than the MAP reading test which means there is less impact on our curriculum time and less pressure for our students. In addition, the NGRT generates a reading age for each student which is not only valuable data for all teachers across the school, but also ensures compliance with new KHDA regulations.

When will the testing take place?

All students in grades 6-10 will take the test in the week beginning the 22nd of January. The tests will be scheduled during regular class time.

Can students prepare for the NGRT?

The official guidance from GL assessments is that students should not attempt to study for the test. It is designed to capture the authentic reading level of a student at a given time. However, teachers will ensure that all students are familiar with the format of the test and the types of questions to expect.

How can I find out more about the NGRT?

Please follow this link to the GL Assessments website where you will find additional information for parents on the test and how it is administered.

We are looking forward to a successful first testing session and applying the data we will get to improve the quality of provision for all our students.

Best regards,

Harry Allen

Assistant Head of Secondary

Language Acquisition - French

Grade 9

Grade 9 students started a unit on mental health; students will embark on a collective journey to explore the particulars of emotional well-being. Fostering a collaborative environment, learners engage in open discussions, teamwork, and activities that promote empathy, resilience, and a deeper understanding of mental health, cultivating a supportive classroom community.

Through collaborative work, students have identified, analyzed, and explained our inquiry question: "Which mental health challenges do teenagers face?" Working together, they have explored into the complexities of adolescent mental health, examining a range of issues that influence teens today. 

Digital Design

Grades 6

This week, Grade 6 design students work on sublimation printing. The theme "Souvenir Showcase: Favorite Travel Destination" involves a creative and educational project where students get to express their favorite travel destinations through personalized mug designs using sublimation printing.

Students worked on the following topics : Introduction to Sublimation Printing:

• Theme - "Souvenir Showcase: Favorite Travel Destination":

Students are asked to choose and showcase their favorite travel destination.

The aim is to blend creativity with personal preferences and cultural awareness.

• Research and Presentation

• Designing the Mug

• Understanding Colors and Printing Process

• Printing and Finishing

• Reflection and Display

• Educational Objectives

This project not only allows students to express their creativity but also fosters an understanding of different cultures and places around the world.

Arabic

Grades 6-12

Yesterday at GIS the Arabic Department celebrated World Arabic Language Day, it was an amazing day filled with joy, happiness, fun activities, and lots of learning. The Activities represented the Arabic Language and culture, we had Word Puzzles, Karaoke, Tongue twisters, and even bracelets and Taboleh preparation.  Both teachers and students enjoyed and received different prizes.

Design Technology

Grade 11

With immense pride, we highlight the remarkable Computer-Aided Design (CAD) achievements of our DP1 students. Our students have mastered the intricacies of engineering-level OnShape software and demonstrated their proficiency in developing designs and creating manufacturing drawings, assembly drawings, and isometric exploded drawings. What sets this accomplishment apart is their ability to bring their designs to life through captivating product animations. As part of their summative assessment, students were tasked with randomly replicating products assigned by Mr. Vikas Singh. Products ranged from staplers and staple guns to spanners, wrenches, pliers, scissors, and more. The results of their hard work are awe-inspiring. Below, please find a presentation  capturing our students' dynamic and engaging learning experience throughout this CAD journey. Follow the links below for more information.

https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1YqOVOH1AhkN6-bowmEnKOGgpl9_4rC4D812WHUg6sVk/edit?usp=sharing

Link for website : https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1YqOVOH1AhkN6-bowmEnKOGgpl9_4rC4D812WHUg6sVk/edit?usp=sharing