MSHS
ENGLISH DEPARTMENT
Written by Mr. Gregory
Grade 6 students have been kept quite busy this first month of term 3. Combining many of their English and I&S periods for their IDU, they are in the process of creating the perfect utopian nation based on sustainability, clean energy and exercising global citizenry in the process. They must consider many factors as they design the most efficient infrastructure for their countries while always acknowledging the environment and all living things. As they are wrapping up preparations for their IDU presentation, they are beginning to read “The Cay” by Theodore Taylor, a realistic but fictional story of a child surviving WWII.
Dom, Raphael and Abygail discuss the infrastructure of their utopian nation.
Bella and Daphne sharing “The Cay” by
Theodore Taylor.
Grade 10 students have also been busy as they examine how different cultures are affected by the globalised world. The value of different cultures has been examined in various reading texts as well as in a debate which they completed this week. As they prepare for their future IGCSE Examinations, they must also learn the proper format for writing an email as well as how to condense a text into an effective and meaningful summary. Soon they will be tested in both these areas as they will have a writing assessment later in the week.
Jiani and Viktoria planning for a debate about developing an area with ancient traditions
Daffa and Daffi are two new students who have recently joined SWA. Or is it Daffi and Daffa?
SCIENCE DEPARTMENT
Written by Mr. Rajesh
Collaborative Learning in Action: Exploring Computer Systems Through Teamwork and Innovation
In our MYP 4 Design class, students worked together to explore the world of computer architecture, input/output devices, and data storage. With the guiding statement of inquiry—Understanding how digital systems process and store information enhances our ability to design efficient and innovative solutions—students explored how systems like the CPU, memory, and data buses work together to process information. They learned about everything from the Fetch–Decode–Execute cycle to the various storage devices like RAM, ROM, and solid-state drives. By collaborating in teams, they were able to combine their ideas and gain a deeper understanding of how these technologies impact the systems we use every day.
Group 2 presenting their research findings on 3D printing.
Group 4 sharing their research findings on input/out devices.
Throughout this unit, the focus was also on building important Approaches to Learning skills, particularly communication and self-management. Students shared their findings, worked together to solve problems, and presented their research to the class. In doing so, they practiced being both reflective and effective communicators, always evaluating their progress and learning from each other. The teamwork and collaboration in this unit helped them not only grasp complex technical concepts but also develop skills they'll use far beyond the classroom, making this an experience full of growth and innovation.
MATHEMATICS DEPARTMENT
Written by Ms. Olive
Student-Led Discussions in Grade 6 and 7 Mathematics
To promote collaboration and a deeper grasp of concepts, students in Grade 6 IMA and Grade 7 AMA recently took charge of their learning through student-led discussions. These activities not only enhanced their mathematical understanding but also developed their Approaches to Learning (ATL) skills, particularly communication and thinking skills.
The Grade 6 IMA students engaged in interactive discussions about linear equations and their graphs. They discussed how changes in the equation affect the slope and y-intercept. This activity strengthened their ability to articulate mathematical reasoning and analyse relationships between algebraic equations and their visual representations.
Meanwhile, the Grade 7 AMA class tackled problems involving Similarity. Students worked through different scenarios in solving the unknown measurements of triangles. By leading discussions and explaining their thought processes, students sharpened their critical thinking skills, refined their problem-solving approaches, and learned to justify their conclusions with logical reasoning.
CHINESE DEPARTMENT
Written by Mr. Charles
Students are engaging in the traditional art of paper cutting, known as 窗花 (chuāng huā), to celebrate Chinese New Year. They are skillfully cutting intricate patterns featuring the character 春 (chūn), which symbolizes spring and renewal. This festive activity not only enhances their understanding of Chinese culture but also brings a sense of joy and creativity to the classroom. The beautifully crafted paper cuttings will likely be used as decorations, adding to the festive atmosphere of the New Year celebration.
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.
*Please note this is the early list and does not include the majority of admission decisions which will come in March/April.