Chinese Website

Welcome to Island School’s Chinese Website. This website is made for each and everyone of us in the Island School Community to share our achievements in the Chinese language field.

The purpose of making this website is to create an alternative environment for Island School students to learn Chinese in a more engaging and interesting way. Instead of having lectures in classroom only, here in Island School we use an interactive way to help students to learn efficiently, which is to introduce another online platform for them to access anytime, anywhere.

Throughout this school year, we have three main themes, which are CAS week, Chinese New Year and Chinese food. The current one is CAS week and essays about it are currently being uploaded onto the website. Moreover, there is an ‘Excellent creative writing section’ to display the outstanding essays written by our students to encourage creativity.

On the other hand, a ‘Reading Section’ is coming up soon which provides students with a large variety of Chinese literature such as fiction books, articles and reading materials selected by Chinese teachers to our students.

In our Chinese Website Team, we have three groups, namely Translation, Chinese Website and Tuition, which consist of around twenty members from Year 9 to 12. We are responsible for different parts of it, for example, in the translation team; we help the school office to do some translation work each week such as the newsletter and school website. We also made a video about the school and translated most of the content on the school website into Chinese last school year. Furthermore, for the Chinese tuition part, we have some volunteers from Year 12 to tutor Year 7-9 students that may have difficulties on learning Chinese. We try to use an approach that is easier for them to learn on a one-to-one basis either during lunchtime or afterschool. As students, we understand the difficulties that one may encounter when they are learning and we are here to break through these obstacles with them in order to enhance our Chinese level as a whole.

Last but not least, we would like to express our utmost gratitude to our teacher advisors Mr. Stevens and Ms Cheng for their continuous support and guidance. Without them, this website can never be launched.

Please follow the link to the Chinese website...here

Chinese website team

The War on Drugs: How Parents can Survive – How Kids Can Win

On the 3rd November Island School hosted a drug information evening, with excellent presentations given by guest speakers Dr Mark Gandolfi (Clinical Psychologist and Director of St John’s Counselling Services) and Senior Inspector Paul Lewis (Narcotics Bureau).

The presentation used by Dr Gandolfi can be found here.

Given its success, and at the request of many parents, we hope to re-run the evening later this academic year.

Jenny Hodson – Vice Principal

Formative Assessment

Improving Learning in Island School Classrooms

Are pupils learning enough, and learning it well in our classrooms – and how can we tell? Can our teachers not only measure the progress made by students, but also identify their learning needs and respond to them? How are we trying to address these questions?

Tests and examinations are a classic way of measuring student progress. These highly visible forms of tracking progress, known as “summative assessment” are also used by you the parents as a measure of how well your child is doing.

But this is only part of the story. To be truly effective, assessment should also be “formative” – in other words, identifying and responding to the students’ learning needs. In classrooms featuring formative assessment, teachers make frequent, interactive assessments of student understanding. This enables them to adjust their teaching to meet individual student needs, and to better help all students to reach high standards. Teachers also actively involve students in the process, helping them to develop skills that enable them to learn better.

Many of our teachers incorporate aspects of formative assessment into their teaching. Formative assessment is used as a framework for teaching, teachers set up learning situations and guide students toward learning goals, we are changing the way we define student success.

Formative assessment builds students’ “learning to learn” skills by emphasising the process of teaching and learning, and involving students as partners in that process. It also builds students’ skills at peer-assessment and self-assessment, and helps them develop a range of effective learning strategies.
Students who are actively building their understanding of new concepts (rather than merely absorbing information) and who are learning to judge the quality of their own and their peers’ work against well-defined criteria are developing invaluable skills for lifelong learning.

Look at the ARR system on the Gateway, we are actively trying to get our students to self assess their progress, to work to criteria upon which their skills are assessed, to look at progress, not just judged to a grade or a level but to look at the reflective feedback. Different types of assessment are set across the curriculum to provide students with challenge and the opportunity to show their skills.

It is about the learning journey that the students are on not just about the grade outcomes. If we all focus on the grade and miss the process of the skill development, we will limit the learning that is happening.

Remember discuss with your child the information that is on the ARR, get them to explain to you the process they have been through on each of the different types of assessment. We need you to become part of the formative assessment. The more opportunities your child has to discuss their learning the greater their understanding and the more progress they will make.

If we took all the grades / levels away would you still be aware of how your child is doing?

If the answer is no, then you have not had a learning conversation with your child. Use the grades as a guide to the progress but the conversation as the opportunity to allow your child to show you their strengths and some areas of challenge. That way you will have a better understanding of the way you can help your child further develop.

Join in, go to the ARR, set a date with your child, let them take you on a learning journey!

Trudy Lant - Vice Principal

Between the Wars

On 6th and 7th October, Island School Drama and Music students collaborated on this extraordinary multi-media, multi-genre show which showcased stories from around the globe in the time period between WWI and WWII. More than 80 students were invovled in bringing to life stories from the Last Emperor of China, to the struggle of the Wiemar Republic to the brutal reality of the American depression. Congratulations to the performers, musicians and technicians involved in a truly collaborative effort.

Mary, Lowanna and Gilbert – Drama Department

Student's photographic skills recognised by the University of Hong Kong

Congratulations need to be extended to Annie Lye (12F) who has achieved great success in a recent prestigious photography competition entitled "Celebrations”. This was organized by the HKU Museum Society to commemorate the university’s centenary. Both amateur and professional photographers were invited to submit their best shots on several themes. Out of 733 submissions the best 100 were selected for exhibition. This selection process was blind so the Judges had no idea who the photographers were.

Four of Annie photographs were selected for the exhibition which was opened by the Vice Chancellor of HKU, Professor Tsui Lap Chee and his wife, Mrs Ellen Tsui, on October 11, 2011. To see Annie’s work framed next to with other wonderfully composed photographs was visually stunning. The tall exhibition space was decorated by a large art/ikibana installation by the famous artist, Masayo Mizukami. Annie also aided on the construction of this piece.

Annie says “I am thrilled to have been involved in this event.
It has been a very encouraging and educational experience for me to see my work displayed against the work of established photographic experts. It was also really inspiring to be able to meet with them and talk to them. I look forward to continuing to develop my photography skills”.

Annie’s winning pieces are attached for your viewing. They were shot in Baiwan on last year’s CAS week Trip and in Portugal during her summer holiday.

Morning…here
Day of Fury…here
Baroque Style…here
Portugal (Judge's Choice award)…here

Fleming House staff love the dominant red colour of “Day of Fury” so much, (the subject is spent firecrackers after a celebration), that they have asked Annie to donate us a framed copy for the Fleming House office wall. Well, we are the red house after all.

Well done Annie.

Mrs. Worthington and Mr. Tudor – Senior Head and Head of Fleming House

Letter from the Japan Consulate / CNN report from Island School

I am sure that you remember about the Japan Week which involved students, teachers, non-teaching staff and parents. Thank you again for your generosity. Now, all the messages have been received by Education department in Ibaraki prefecture. I am pleased to let you know that Island School has received a letter of appreciation by Consulate General of Japan in Hong Kong. I would like to share this news with the Island School community.

On the 11th March, 2011, a 9.0 magnitude earthquake struck Japan, triggering a tsunami with waves up to 10 meters, taking away over 15,000 innocent lives. In response to this tragic incident, the Island School Japanese Community came together in effort of relief support. We understand the magnitude of this tragedy, not just for the lives that were taken away, but also for the loved ones left behind in pain and grief. The Japanese Community responded immediately in an effort to raise awareness throughout Island School. Several Japanese lunch stalls were set up across several days, along with a dress casual day held in remembrance of those who have passed away. In addition messages to support those in Japan, were written and sent to the areas struck by the disaster. With the enthusiastic support of Island School students, teachers and faculty members, we were able to raise a substantial amount of money for the aftermaths of the earthquake.

On the 4th October, the Japanese Community of Island School was invited to the Japanese Embassy in recognition of our efforts in support relief. The students were all very nervous as the formality of the event was beyond their expectations. However, the ceremony went on smoothly and flawlessly. On behalf of the Island School Japanese Community, Island School students Karin Yamauchi 13W , Frances Cassidy 13D, Ryosuke Hoshiyama 12N and Go Suzuki 12N were awarded appreciation certificates in recognition and gratitude of those Japanese citizens whom were affected by the tragic disaster.

Madoka Rei - Teacher of Japanese

CNN report from Island School on the passing of Steve Jobs…here

Nansen Biathlon and Opening of the Textiles Room

On Tuesday 20th September Nansen held their annual sponsored biathlon in memory of Amy Coxall and Gui Vezzaro. This involved members of the house participating in pairs, or as an individual, to complete the run to 2nd Pagoda, Bowen Road (2.5km) and 16 lengths. There were some great performances by the students and staff and results will be announced at a later date. We were particularly pleased to see so many of 7N participating as individuals.

Following the biathlon we had the official opening of the new Textiles room which is in memory of Amy Coxall as this was one of the subjects she was passionate about. Amy’s parents and brother Josh attended along with staff and students. There is a lovely picture of Amy in the room and a large decorative glass panel containing one of Amy’s designs. Simply a great room, airy and light….all the working conditions Amy loved. Thanks to Claire Tait and ESF for all their hard work in creating this new Textiles environment. Existing funds and money raised through the biathlon will be used to purchase other pieces of equipment required for this room.

When you visit school please take some time to view the new bench to the right of the main entrance. A huge thank you to Matt Smith and the Technology department for the time spent designing and making the bench in memory of Amy and Gui. Students, staff and members of Amy’s family have also decorated pebbles/stones which are underneath the bench. This area is in front of Amy’s tree which was planted last year and is continuing to flourish.

All in all a really positive lovely afternoon and celebration in memory of Amy and Gui.

Amy and Gui, you are missed but always in our hearts and thoughts.

Please see Nansen Biathalon’s photograph album...here

Please see Amy's Memorial 2011-12’s photograph album...here

Cath Hopkins - Senior Head of Nansen

Fleming Charity Week

Fleming’s proud association with Katja house is long standing. For those of you new to the House this is an orphanage in Nepal that was set up and run by Island School. It has provided shelter for about 60 children whose ages range from 4-18. We have had a fun filled week without forgetting that we are raising money for a charity close to our hearts.

Under the guidance of our Heads of House, Mrs. Worthington and Mr. Tudor and with the support of the Fleming form tutors, the help of 12F charity prefects and with everyone in the house pitching in, this has been a very successful week. The 2011 charity week has been one of our best ever. It kicked off with a Dress Red Day, followed by the entire House forming a giant letter ‘F’ for Fleming on the green area. 7F took part in a Sponsored Silence for a whole school day, which was challenging but also created a quieter environment around school. 8F really enjoyed sponging the teachers. Mrs. Worthington, Mr. Tudor, Mrs. Boag, Mr. Nicholls, Mr. Rutter and Mr. Reed all kindly volunteered to be hit with soggy sponges to raise money. 9F treated the school to a delicious bake sale; we could have some budding Jamie Olivers or Nigella Lawsons there! 10F cooled down in the pool for their Sponsored Swim whilst 11F baked in the sun for their Sponsored Run with Mrs. Worthington. The grand finale of the week was the Fleming Carnival which involved 12F and 13F working collaboratively to put together a fun and lively afternoon which included balloon drops, tie dyeing, pizza sales and rousing vocals from Fleming students.

In the weeks to come we look forward to our Fleming prefects, who are travelling to Katja House during CAS week, reporting back on their experiences and hearing how the money will be utilized. Mrs. Worthington and Mr. Tudor would like to thank all Fleming students and staff for their energy, enthusiasm and support with the Fleming charity week. The week has so far raised an amazing HK$28,000. Well done Fleming!!!!

Please see photograph album…here

Nigvi Tam & Michelle Kung - 12F

Kids4Kids

Last year 3 year 12 students, Charles Yau, Ted Clifford and Kimmy Piedmont got together to form the Island School branch of Kids 4 Kids, a completely student led charity focused on helping other young people around the world, with the mission ‘For kids, by kids’. We participated in Books For a Cause, a massive effort to collect and donate educational and junior books to students and schools in need around Asia, but particularly in disadvantaged parts of Hong Kong and China where students lack appropriate reading and reference material.

Island School alone collected and shipped over 500 books to Kids 4 Kids. As a group we just wanted to thank everyone who contributed by donating books, in particular the Island School English department for their generous donations, and everyone who showed up to help us pack them. We’re all looking forward to participating in the event again next year and furthering Island School’s involvement with this great cause.

Ted Clifford – 13F

Dr Willie Smits Visits Island School

On Friday 26th December Dr Willie Smits of the Masarang Foundation will be visiting Island School. The aim of the Masarang Foundation is “to save the environment through the active participation of local people. Through its projects, the foundation works on solutions for the most pressing problems the world currently faces: climate change, extinction of plants and animals, destruction of ecosystems, poverty and underdevelopment.”

One of the Foundation’s projects is the Tasikoki Animal Rescue Centre in Sulawesi. This November a team of Island School students will be working at Tasikoki for their CAS week. Together with WAMBO (the school’s environment group) and other members of the Island School community, the Taskikoki students will be helping to raise funds to support the Masarang Foundation. We hope that this is the start of a long association between the school and the foundation.
For more information on the Masarang Foundation please look up their website Masarang…here. You can also look up the Masarang Hong Kong which has been set up in HK to raise awareness of the work of the foundation Masarang HK. It is also worth watching Dr Smits TED talk to find out more about his reforestation projects TED Talk.

Mathew Rappel - Advanced Diploma Co-ordinator/ Teacher of Business Studies

Island School Mela for Future Hope

What will HK$30 get you?

A cappuccino … a panini … a taxi fare?

Island School Mela for Future Hope

Tuesday 28^th June 2011 1pm -3.15pm

As we approach the end of term we are looking forward to an important event that will provide an entertaining afternoon for the whole school community and also serve the needs of another community that is close to our hearts.

Chris Binge has communicated with you recently about the student led fundraising for Future Hope, Kolkata. This initiative is now gathering momentum and will culminate on Tuesday 28^th June with the Island School Mela (fair) for Future Hope.

Throughout the afternoon there will be live sponsored performances from junior and senior students, ranging from cup dancing, to break dancing, to beat boxing. House Stalls, organized by Year 10 students, will provide further entertainment and supply tasty home-made refreshments. What’s more, leading up to and on the day of the Mela, second hand books, T-shirts (designed by five children at Future Hope) and wristbands will be on sale.

But perhaps what is most exciting about this event is that we are now 99% sure that we will be joined by six girls from Future Hope who will perform Bengali dance within the programme of entertainment. Thanks to very generous donations from parents, we are now in a position to help pay for flights for them to come to Hong Kong. Tim Grandage (Founder of Future Hope) has assured us of his years of experience in dealing with the administrative powers in Kolkata and is extremely confident of securing their passports within the next few days. This is unprecedented: it will be the first time that any girls from Future Hope have had the chance to travel.

So, if you’re keen to get involved and support us in reaching the $80000 target, here are just a few ways:
• Encourage your child to buy a T-shirt ($80) and a wristband ($10)
• Encourage your child to donate a book and buy a book ($20-50)

And perhaps most importantly:
• JOIN US AT THE MELA!

Tickets - $100 – will go on sale the week before and will be sold on the day
And let’s think again … what will HK$30 get you?
A book at the second hand book sale …
And that will help feed two children for a day at Future Hope

Thank you for your support
Jenny Hodson – Vice Principal