Embedded Files
Empowering EAL learners
In the EAL Department here at KISU, we empower our EAL learners by allowing them to take the lead; for instance, through reteaching other students; whether it involves eliciting lexis or reviewing/consolidating language structures.
When the Affective Filter has been lowered, whereby students feel comfortable to speak out and learn from their errors, freedom of expression is the outcome. We also allow students to use their mother tongues (including Arabic, Mandarin Chinese, Japanese, Spanish or Turkish) to allow full and meaningful communication and comprehension.
Students who are somewhat reserved when it comes to speaking out are given thinking time, to gather their thoughts individually, or with a partner, before conversing with other students. They can make notes on the board or on paper, and can use their devices if needed to facilitate their learning. Stronger students can be paired up with their less capable peers and we need to consider varied learning activities and opportunities, ranging from kinesthetic to drawing to writing paragraphs or stories to quizzes, for example.
As Mr. Lee has recommended, brain-waking activities are an excellent way to get students alert, speaking, interacting and - above all - enjoying their language learning sessions!
In terms of lesson content, we work in conjunction with other teachers who provide us with the material they are covering in their classes so we can assist our EAL learners in becoming conversant with key terms and linguistic items, as required, leading up to their lessons.
Teachers of other subjects are encouraged to provide in-class support to EAL learners. For instance, Mr. Ismail - our esteemed Geography teacher - carefully and diligently prepares worksheets which are simplified, differentiated and translated for his EAL classroom members.
In EAL lessons, we help develop students' skills in terms of preparing for special events, such as the Science Fair, assemblies or International Day.
Speaking is linked to writing, reading and listening: the four main skills of language learning.
The Learn English British Council website has useful activities focusing on the four skills, empowering EAL learners for their school lessons and lives as well as for their everyday experiences outside school. Other websites and videos are used, and students are encouraged to showcase their own languages, thus celebrating the international nature of KISU.
Thank you for reading!
That's all from EAL for now...
Mr. Xavier Fernandez
In the Global Perspectives class, students demonstrated active learning at its best through engaging in discussions and presentations on Culture & Identity. They confidently analysed, presented, and debated ideas, making meaningful connections to global issues.
As part of their ongoing exploration of cultural diversity, students conducted in-depth research on key themes, including Values and Beliefs, Change in Culture and Communities, Globalisation, and the Digital World. Their presentations highlighted how these factors shape identity formation and influence societies worldwide, fostering a deeper understanding of cultural dynamics in an interconnected world.
It is fascinating and illuminating when students acquire information through research about cultures as distinct as Cameroon, Burundi, Japan, Samoa, and China…among others!
Encouraging indeed when an item of lexis students learned in GP can be utilised for a presentation but can also be related to another subject. See if you can spot the word…and guess the subject!
Mr. Sekatawa Mohammed
GP Culture & Identity Presentations
Breathing New Life in Fiction
Breathing New Life into Fiction
One of the set books that the Year 7 students are studying is the classic play Frankenstein. After working through Acts One and Two, the students engaged in an exciting exercise to reimagine the Gothic play and breathe new life into it.
Discussions centered on the relationship between Victor Frankenstein and his creation—the monster. Students were tasked with reinterpreting key scenes from different perspectives. One group focused on the monster’s humanity and presented a monologue portraying him as a misunderstood victim of rejection by society. Two groups rewrote Acts One and Two respectively, and showcased the monster’s terrifying presence to highlight the contrast between human and machine, sparking meaningful discussions about ethical choices.
To modernize the play, two groups adapted Act One into a puppet show, taking the story beyond traditional gothic literature settings and giving it a more contemporary feel. One of the most exciting aspects of the project was the students' use of technology, particularly the flickering lighting, to create a spooky atmosphere and enhance their performance.
Through this creative exercise, the students demonstrated that Frankenstein is more than just a piece of science fiction; it is a living story with endless possibilities for reinterpretation and adaptation.
Margaret Mukobe
Teacher of English Y7 Blue
Language Week
During our Language Week, students engaged in various activities. The event began with an assembly where students greeted each other in different languages, followed by poems recited in their native tongues. There was also a presentation on the significance of learning additional languages and a speech about the francophonie and the role of the French language in our school.
Students showcased their talents by singing in both French and Xhosa, the South African language spoken by Nelson Mandela. Additionally, at the reception, you'll find posters in different languages that represent the diverse communities at our beloved school.
Throughout the week, students will participate in other activities during their tutoring periods, such as a trivia game about languages and a video interview featuring polyglot teachers and students. They’ll share how learning multiple languages has impacted their personal lives and career development.
We hope you enjoy Language Week and remember that mastering languages opens the doors to the art of conversation and diplomacy.
Ms. Orihuela Jorgelina
The Importance of Reading
Year 9 students recently delivered an engaging presentation on the importance of reading, using creative illustrations. Their presentation emphasised how reading goes beyond academics, nurturing critical thinking and creativity.
Through well-crafted visuals, they demonstrated how regular reading helps to develop a broader perspective, expand their vocabulary, and enhance communication skills. They also explored how reading fosters a lifelong passion for learning, equipping individuals with the ability to analyze information, articulate ideas effectively, and engage in meaningful discussions.
Their message was about reading being a gateway to knowledge, imagination, and personal growth. Students are urged to dedicate time to reading daily because every book opens a new world of possibilities.
Mr. Ssekamatte Nathan.
BATTLE OF THE BANDS
On this 7th of March, the students exhibited great talents at school, they spent countless days practicing and getting ready for this day. Tension arose every where as bands got on the stage to deliver what they had prepared for such a long time, It was indeed a battle of the bands, all the bands.
Mr. Wagaba Patrick
The KISU Science Fair Sparks Curiosity and Innovation!
On Thursday, March 13th, the KISU Auditorium was abuzz with excitement as students from KS3 showcased their creativity and scientific knowledge at this year’s Science Fair. Each year group explored a unique theme, bringing science to life through engaging experiments and thought-provoking displays.
Year 7 students focused on the theme of "Particles", demonstrating their understanding of the particle model through interactive experiments. From investigating diffusion in liquids to showcasing newtonian fluids, their presentations captivated the audience.
Year 8 explored "Models", highlighting the importance of scientific representations. Students constructed models of solar ovens, earth moving equipment, and even split water using electricity, emphasizing how models help visualize complex ideas.
Year 9 took on the challenge of "Dynamics", exploring forces and motion. Their experiments ranged from testing Newton’s Laws with homemade planes to investigating balloon propulsion systems. A particularly impressive display showed a working model of hyraulic lifts, expalining the idea of pressure in liquids.
The fair was a fantastic success, inspiring students to think critically and creatively. Winners in all categories will be announced after the break. Congratulations to all participants for their hard work and enthusiasm! A special thank you to the parents, teachers and judges for making this event possible. We look forward to even more exciting discoveries next year!
Mr. Akweri Oyungu
KISU Science Fair
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