MSHS NEWS

MSHS

Written by Mr. Alex N

Welcome to Infobyte #16, where we continue to share knowledge, updates, and celebrate our achievements together. I want to start by extending a hearty congratulations to our esteemed Maths department for orchestrating a fantastic Pi Day celebration. Your dedication and creativity truly shone through, making it a memorable event for all involved.

I also want to take this opportunity to express my gratitude to all our teachers for their commitment and hard work in ensuring the smooth completion of the G8 checkpoint and G10 IGCSE mocks. Your efforts are deeply appreciated, and it's evident that your dedication to our students' success knows no bounds.

Looking ahead, I'm excited to announce that our Parent-Teacher Conferences (PTC) are scheduled for Friday, 22 March. It's always a valuable opportunity for us to connect with parents and guardians, share insights, and collaborate on the journey of our students' growth and development.

As we step into Term 4, let's continue to work together seamlessly, supporting each other and our students every step of the way. Here's to a smooth and successful term filled with growth, learning, and achievement for all.

Thank you once again for your hard work, dedication, and commitment to our school community. Together, we will continue to inspire excellence and make a difference in the lives of our students.

MYP Update

Written by Mr. Haoken

Pi Day 2024: A Mathematical Fiesta Unfolds at SWA MSHS - Where Maths Meets Imagination and Play

On a bright and enthusiastic 14 March 2024, the SWA MSHS community embarked on an extraordinary journey to celebrate Pi Day, transforming the abstract world of numbers into a vibrant festival of intellect, creativity, and unity. It was a day when the beauty of mathematics intertwined with the artistic talents of our students, creating a symphony of education, entertainment, and camaraderie that resonated throughout our school.

Morning Marvels: Dance, Speed, and Strategy

The day's festivities commenced with an electrifying Opening Ceremony in the Trini Dewi Theatre, setting an upbeat tone for what was to become a day full of discovery and celebration. As the curtain rose, the Maths Dance Competition quickly became the highlight, with students creatively incorporating round objects like hula hoops and basketballs into their dance routines. This innovative activity not only set the stage for physical dynamism but also offered a unique lens through which to view and appreciate mathematical principles.

No sooner had the applause quieted down than the Maths Sprint took the spotlight. This fast-paced contest had students buzzing with excitement as they dashed through a series of maths problems, each striving to outdo the others not just in speed but in accuracy too, embodying the true spirit of healthy competition and teamwork.

The Nim Toothpick Game then introduced a different tempo, challenging students with a game that demanded strategic thinking and forward planning. Watching the participants navigate this game was a testament to the critical role of mathematics in fostering analytical skills and strategic thought processes. The Chess Game offered a battlefield of strategic dominance, with students engaged in intellectual duels, their moves a dance of foresight and tactics. Simultaneously, the Dice Game turned probability theory into a lively, interactive session, where each roll of the dice brought lessons in chance and decision-making to the forefront. Complementing these was a selection of Mini Games, including the intriguing Matching Game, which pushed students to find pairs or sequences under time pressure, enhancing their pattern recognition and memory skills.

Afternoon Accolades: Musical Mastery and Memorable Maths

Post-lunch, the energy shifted to the melodious and dramatic realms with the Maths Grand Musical at the Trini Dewi Theatre. Our students took to the stage with gusto, weaving mathematical concepts into a narrative that was as enlightening as it was entertaining. The audience was treated to a performance that showcased not just the students' understanding of maths but their formidable talents in music and drama as well.

Through an eclectic mix of performances, competitions, and collaborative learning experiences, we aimed to cultivate a deeper appreciation for mathematics among students and the wider community. This year's Pi Day at SWA MSHS was a vibrant testament to the enduring spirit of learning and innovation that characterises our school. We take immense pride in the accomplishments of our students and the zest with which they embraced every challenge and opportunity presented on this special day.

English Department

Written by Mr. Kevin

Navigating Mock Exams

As we reflect on the recent academic activities of our students, we are pleased to highlight the integral role of mock exams in their educational journey. Conducted during the week of 11 March, mock exams provided a vital opportunity for students in Grade 8 Checkpoint, Grade 10 IGCSE, and Grade 12 IBDP to assess their knowledge and readiness for upcoming assessments.

Mock exams, or trial examinations, are pivotal in equipping students with the necessary skills and confidence to excel in their final assessments. They simulate the real exam experience, offering students a chance to familiarise themselves with exam formats, time constraints, and content expectations. Through these simulations, students can refine their exam strategies, manage their time effectively, and alleviate any test-related anxiety.

During the recent mock exams, students engaged in rigorous assessments tailored to their respective grade levels and curricula. For Grade 8 Checkpoint and Grade 10 IGCSE students, these mock tests served as pivotal checkpoints to evaluate their progress and identify areas for improvement. Meanwhile, Grade 12 IBDP students used mock exams as a crucial tool to refine their exam techniques and consolidate their understanding of subject material ahead of their final examinations.

The benefits of mock exams extend beyond individual student performance. They provide educators with invaluable insights into student learning and assessment needs, enabling them to tailor their teaching strategies and support mechanisms accordingly. By analysing mock exam results, teachers can identify areas of strength and weakness, address common misconceptions, and provide targeted intervention to ensure every student achieves their academic potential.

As we move forward, we encourage students to reflect on their mock exam experiences and leverage the feedback provided to enhance their study habits and exam preparation strategies. Mock exams are not only an assessment tool but also a pathway to academic growth and success. We commend our students for their diligence and commitment during the recent mock exams and look forward to supporting them in their continued academic pursuits.

Science And Design Department

Written by Mr. Rajesh

Congratulations to all Grade 12 and Grade 10 Computer Science students who recently sat for their mock examinations! These mock exams serve as invaluable tools for assessing their current level of preparation and identifying areas for improvement as they approach the main IGCSE and IBDP Computer Science exams just around the corner. By diligently tackling these mock tests, they've not only gained insight into their strengths and weaknesses but have also honed their exam-taking skills and time management techniques. Their submission of the CS Internal Assessment further demonstrates their dedication to mastering the subject. As they reflect on their performance in the mock exams, use this opportunity to refine their study strategies, reinforce their understanding of key concepts, and practise past papers to familiarise themselves with the exam format. Stay focused, stay motivated, and remember that their hard work will undoubtedly pay off. On behalf of everyone, I wish them the best of luck in their upcoming IGCSE and IBDP Computer Science exams. They've got this!

Grade 11 Computer Science students are now exploring MySQL for the backend and Java JFrame Forms on Netbeans for the frontend in their Internal Assessments. Learning these tools isn't just about passing exams; it's about gaining real world skills to develop IT solutions for the real clients. Mastering MySQL helps them handle databases efficiently, while understanding Java JFrame Forms lets them create user-friendly interfaces. With these skills, they're gearing up for project development opportunities which is the foundation for the software development field. 

In Grade 9 Computer Science, students are currently immersed in the hardware chapter, where they will delve into the intricate workings of computer systems. Throughout this unit, they will learn about computer architecture, including the Central Processing Unit and von Neumann architecture. They will explore the components of the CPU, such as the Arithmetic and Logic Unit, Control Unit, and registers, as well as the essential buses - control, address, and data - that facilitate data transfer. Concepts like cores, cache, and the internal clock will deepen their understanding of CPU operations, alongside the Fetch-Decode-Execute cycle and instruction sets. Additionally, they will explore embedded systems and a variety of input and output devices, from barcode scanners and digital cameras to printers and screens.

Chinese Department

Written by Mr. Andy

After studying "Hobbies and Interests," every student in Chinese class utilised methods such as Google slide, videos, and images to share their own and their family's hobbies. Through vibrant slides and captivating media, classmates gained insights into their family members' interests, spanning from sports to music. These presentations not only showcased personal perspectives but also enhanced students' Chinese language skills. It was an engaging experience that revealed the diversity of family hobbies and bolstered students' enthusiasm for learning Chinese in class.

Indonesian Department

Written by Ms. Junita

In Grade 6 ILL lessons, students often encounter the colourful world of idioms. These linguistic gems add depth and flair to everyday conversation. Learning idioms not only enriches language skills but also provides insights into Indonesian culture and mindset.

Through idioms like "masuk angin" (literally meaning "entering the wind," referring to catching a cold) or "ambil hati" (literally meaning "take heart," referring to winning someone's favour), students grasp nuances of expression and cultural context.

Understanding idioms requires more than literal translation; it demands cultural immersion and linguistic finesse. As students delve into these expressions, they not only enhance their language proficiency but also develop a deeper appreciation for Indonesian customs and ways of thinking.

Mastering idioms in Bahasa Indonesia isn't just about speaking the language; it's about understanding its soul.

Individuals & Societies Department

Written by Ms. Katherine

Grade 7 have just finished their unit on the USA since the 1920’s and their involvement with various conflicts around the world. Now we have started our final unit on China in the 20th century. For our first lesson we researched and presented our knowledge on China. Those students with Chinese ties were able to share more personal knowledge whilst other students focused on certain topics. Maria grossed out the class with her explanation on foot binding, whilst Rutger talked about the Silk Road. Below are photos of 7B in action.

Music

Written by Mr. Freddy

In the vibrant world of music at Sinarmas World Academy, our Grade 6 students recently embarked on an exciting journey into the realm of Asian music. Through immersive classroom experiences, collaborative group work, and hands-on exploration, these budding musicians delved deep into the rich tapestry of Asian musical traditions.

In music class, Grade 6 students delved into the captivating history and unique characteristics of Asian music, gaining a comprehensive understanding of its cultural significance. Working collaboratively in groups, they presented their findings, showcasing their newfound knowledge and insights.

One of the highlights of their learning journey was the exploration of pentatonic scales from diverse Asian cultures, including Chinese, Japanese, and Indonesian pentatonic scales. Armed with their understanding of interval formulas, students ventured into the realm of composition, using digital music apps such as Flat.io to bring their musical ideas to life. Moreover, students explored the classification of Asian instruments based on the Sachs-Hornbostel system, deepening their appreciation for the diverse array of musical instruments found in Asian cultures.

Through thoughtful experimentation and creative collaboration, students carefully selected instruments to evoke the essence of Asian music in their compositions in Flat.io. The result? A mesmerising array of pentatonic compositions that showcase their ingenuity, cultural appreciation, and musical prowess. We invite you to witness some of their firsthand pentatonic composing work videos below.

Visual Arts

Written by Mr. Alan

Time flies, just a few more days of Term 3. The Secondary Visual Art students at this moment are writing down their thoughts on term 3 visual art unit reflections of what they have known and what skills or areas to improve for term 4, and at the same time, Grade 10 are taking the IGCSE Mock Exam, where the students are to choose one starting point and producing the preparatory and a final product, here are some snapshots showing Grade 8 visual art students writing down their reflections and Grade 10 IGCSE art and design mock exam.