MSHS NEWS

MSHS

ENGLISH DEPARTMENT

Written by Ms. Katherine

Grade 6 students are starting an exciting interdisciplinary (English and Individuals and Societies) unit on utopias. They’ve started exploring the concept of utopias, discussing what makes a society ideal, and contrasting it with dystopias. Through engaging activities, they are considering themes like equality, fairness, and happiness, sparking deep conversations about human values. As they brainstorm ideas, they are also gearing up for a creative task where they’ll design their vision of a utopia, linked to UN goals. This unit inspires critical thinking and imagination in equal measure!

MATHEMATICS DEPARTMENT

Written by Mr. Lukas

Grade 9 Students Explore Trigonometric Function Transformations with Digital Tool

Grade 9 International Mathematics students are diving into the world of trigonometric function transformations. This activity combines the use of tablets, digital books, and traditional note-taking to enhance both their understanding of trigonometry and their ability to integrate technology into learning.

Students are exploring the transformations of trigonometric functions, such as sine, cosine, and tangent, using digital tools to visualize and manipulate graphs. With the aid of graphing apps and online platforms, they investigate vertical and horizontal shifts, reflections, stretches, and compressions. This hands-on approach allows them to observe and analyze how these transformations affect the function’s graph in real-time.

Joshua was so excited while working on this activity, although he finds it challenging to be able to draw trigonometric functions with their correct properties - to quote him: “This is my best masterpiece just yet!” showing his excitement towards this activity.

The students' work shown in the pictures below showcased clean and professional-looking graphs, and carefully constructed using graphing tools. Their notes were detailed and complete, demonstrating a deep understanding of trigonometric function transformations.

The Grade 9 trigonometric function transformations activity highlights the successful integration of digital tools into mathematics education. As their mathematics teacher, I praise them for their beautifully organized notes, professionally crafted graphs, and comprehensive work, which demonstrates their understanding, creativity, and dedication. By combining note-taking with digital and traditional methods, students developed critical thinking, organizational, and digital skills. This approach not only enhances mathematical proficiency but also equips students with the tools and skills needed to excel in an increasingly digital academic and professional landscape.

CHINESE DEPARTMENT

Written by Ms. Yuan

In Grade 11, students studied the theme of Chinese New Year at the end of semester 1. To help them better understand how Chinese people celebrate Spring Festival, the Grade 11 students spent two Chinese classes in the school kitchen, working in groups to experience making dumplings. Through this activity, students first learned about different dumpling recipes by searching for information and watching videos in class. Then, they divided into two large groups and documented their individual tasks and the steps of making dumplings in a PowerPoint presentation. Finally, in the kitchen, they rolled dough, prepared fillings, wrapped dumplings, and cooked them. The students were very satisfied with the activity, stating that they improved their cooking skills and gained a deeper understanding of Chinese culture.

Grade 11 Indonesian language and literature students were exploring non-literary texts, with a particular focus on analyzing cartoons. This activity is to help students to find the implied meanings of the texts, understand the author's intentions, and identify the primary target audience. To achieve this, students examine a variety of elements, including color, objects, characters, text, and other attributes that contribute to the overall message of the cartoon.

In these activities, students were working in groups to discuss their interpretations, engage in question-and-answer, and summarize their thoughts comprehensively. This group activity is intended to foster collaboration and enhance their analytical skills as they prepare to present their findings to the class. While students are able to grasp the general meaning of the texts, many face challenges in effectively linking the visual and textual elements to their overall comprehension.

Through this process, students are learning the importance of using textual evidence to support their interpretations. Additionally, they are developing critical communication skills, as they must clearly and structurally convey their analyses both in written and orally. This activity not only deepens their understanding of non-literary texts but also equips them with the tools to communicate their knowledge with clarity and confidence.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION

Written by Mr. Sean

As the Grade 12 students prepare for their upcoming DP exams they continue to use their Physical Education class to help them achieve balance, relieve stress, and contribute to their overall mental health and wellbeing.

Below are some quotes from the Gr 12 Students on the benefits of their Physcial Education class:

“The PE class is a way for me to somewhat forget about the task I need to complete for a short period of time which made me feel less stressed during those times.”

“The PE class has definitely helped me find balance in my school life. With the pressure of assignments, exams, and various responsibilities, it can be easy to feel overwhelmed, but PE offers me a break and a chance to reset. Having a dedicated time to be active, especially in a sport like badminton, gives me the opportunity to step away from the mental demands of schoolwork and focus purely on physical movement and technique. It’s a great way to clear my mind and recharge.”

“I find PE class a good way to relieve stress especially when faced with the daunting workload IAs and EEs provide. Moreover, I think PE is a great way to relax and put your mind on something else instead of constant work.”

“Overall, PE class has improved my flexibility in managing tasks by improving my stamina. After an active badminton session, I can focus better in class, study for longer without getting exhausted, and ultimately, relax with lower stress levels. I have also seen improvements in my sleep schedule, as exercising enables me to sleep earlier and wake up earlier. My mental health has been positively impacted as well, as I am able to release the accumulated stress through active movements.”

“…During PE time whenever I play badminton I stop thinking about academics and just focus on having fun with my friends which relieves my stress.”

“PE class has helped me find balance by providing a break from academics and relieving stress. Playing football and badminton clears my mind, keeps me active, and helps me return to my studies feeling refreshed and focused.”

The Grade 12 students prepare their exercise plan for the term based on their goals and interests in sports and activities. Many of the students are engaged in volleyball, and badminton, while others are doing calisthenics, jogging and other aerobic activities. At other times many of the students are playing a fun game of futsal together.

MUSIC: MSHS Holiday Concert 2024 “Winter Solace”

Written by Mr. Freddy

On Thursday, 12 December 2024, the Trini Dewi Theatre hosted the MSHS Holiday Concert, themed “Winter Solace.” This charity event brought the SWA Middle and High School community together to celebrate the season with music and goodwill. The theme symbolized warmth and hope during winter, aligning with the concert’s purpose of supporting Habitat for Humanity (HFH) Indonesia in building homes for underprivileged families. Organized by the Timbre Music CAS, led by the execs Nadhira, Jasmine, Qiara, and Nathan, the concert featured a wide array of performances, including the original musical “Silent Night” and collaborations with all MYP Music students. At the foyer outside the theatre, a vibrant arts exhibition curated by Ms. Jeanie and her visual arts students added to the festive atmosphere, setting the perfect tone for the event.

The highlight of the concert, a musical drama “Silent Night,” written by Qiara, Chloe, and Kate, inspired by the 1914 Christmas Truce during World War I, carried a profound anti-war message, emphasising the importance of peace and unity. Grade 8 Joshua, in his debut as a lead actor, played Jonathan, a young soldier who discovers hope in the midst of conflict. Alongside Joshua, the talented cast members like Liam, Bridget, Zuriel, Abyasa, Jennifer, Richard, Yesslyn, Claire, Jordan, and others, brought the story to life through acting and singing. This musical not only educated us about history but also reflected the IB philosophy of fostering young people to create a better and more peaceful world.

The concert showcased exceptional performances by MYP Music students across all grades, presenting music in multiple styles, genres and languages. Grades 6-7 Ensemble brought together strings, winds, and percussion instruments, creating a vibrant and harmonious Christmas medley that delighted the audience. They also performed as a choir, delivering the nostalgic song “Christmas Crossword”. The Grade 8-10 Choir delivered a moving rendition of “Believe” from The Polar Express. Junior Band from Grade 7 performed “Jingle Bell Rock”, and the Grade 9 Band brought festive energy with “All I Want for Christmas”. Solo and duet performances included Keanu’s “La Seine” in French, Maxi’s “The First Noel” in German, and Yesslyn’s Japanese song, alongside duets by Julia and Nathan performed “The Christmas Song”. Dance CAS group, OneTake, contributed stunning K-pop dance choreography that connected with the musical’s themes.

Adding to the festivities, a special teacher-student collaboration featured our CAS/SA Coordinator, Ms. Elma and Julia performed “Greatest Love of All”, accompanied by Mr. Lukas on the saxophone, which showcased the community spirit of the event. The concert also welcomed Mr. David, a representative from HFH Indonesia, who updated the audience on the progress of 10 homes set to be completed in February 2025. Sara from Grade 8 also presented her holiday charity initiative, which engaged the parent association in supporting Indonesian Street Children Organisation (ISCO). These initiatives reinforced the concert’s mission of bringing light and hope to those in need during the holiday season.

As the curtains closed, special thanks were extended to the MCs Adhisya and Kent, and the technical team led by Darvin, Nadhira, and Jasmine, who ensured seamless lighting, sound, and visual effects, and everyone involved. This Winter Solace concert proved to be an inspiring celebration of music, peace, and charity, offering students the chance to explore their creativity while making a meaningful impact. It highlighted the importance of teamwork, dedication, and the power of Arts to bring people together for a greater cause.

VISUAL ARTS

Written by Ms. Jeanie

Grade 8 students have been learning about colour schemes and practicing painting values by creating Torn Paper self-portraits. They created 4 values using a chosen colour choice then carefully tore the paper up to match the different values in their face to make it look three-dimensional. Students learned about different types of rhythm then drew their chosen rhythm in the background using a complementary colour scheme.

UGC

UNIVERSITY ACCEPTANCES

Students who applied early to universities have started receiving their acceptance letters. We wish to congratulate all of our students on their acceptances so far and wish them all the best as they continue to apply to other universities throughout the semester. Regular Decision acceptances should be received by April and acceptances to some universities in other countries may be received as late as July. This acceptance list will be updated as they come in.