Patana News Volume 26 Issue 18

PATANA NEWS

Friday 26th January 2024 Volume 26 Issue 18 www.patana.ac.th

Paving a Creative Path with IBCP

By Matt Seddon

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Also in this issue...

The Importance of Building your Story in Page 4 Secondary School Page 7 Community Engagement Page 8 Fun Day Updates Page 12 ESS Expedition to Kaeng Krachan Page 14 The Physics of Everyday Things Page 15 Into the Forest of Khao Yai Page Turners Page 18

Bangkok Patana is a not-for-profit IB World School accredited by CIS 26/01/2024

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Paving a Creative path with IBCP Matt Seddon, Secondary Principal

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n August 2024, our Senior Studies curriculum will undergo an evolution that will see us offer our Senior Studies students an alternative curriculum to the IB Diploma for the first time. We are delighted to share that the initial focus for this curriculum will be Art as we build upon Bangkok Patana’s long history of creativity to provide this new pathway for our budding artists.

We are so proud of our Bangkok Patana students. They are talented, committed and they live and breathe our values. The IB Diploma Programme has long been the summit of a Patana education. Patana is rightly recognised and celebrated for its world class programme, which has provided a launch pad for our students into myriad of amazing careers across the world. However, we believe that one-size does not fit all and are introducing the International Baccalaureate Career-related Programme (IBCP) to allow students passionate about Art to focus on depth over breadth as they hone their skills.

Getting to this stage has been a labour of love for the Secondary team, who have been committed to diversifying our curriculum provision to better meet the needs of our diverse range of learners. The team have been focussed on securing accreditation which will allow us to deliver IBCP as the vehicle for this new creative journey. I am pleased to share that we have now passed the authorisation phase of our accreditation and have also been accredited to deliver International BTEC as the centre-piece of this course.

We believe that our IBCP curriculum centred initially around Art will be a pivotal moment in our mission to further weave creativity throughout the fabric of our students’ education.

WHAT IS THE IBCP? For those who are not yet familiar with the course, the IBCP, is part of the International Baccalaureate’s suite of qualifications. Grounded in the same philosophy as the Diploma Program (IBDP), it is celebrated for its holistic approach to career-related learning, whilst providing a rigorous yet flexible educational pathway enhanced by the development of workplace skills that are ready for the 21st century. Our programme will combine the rigour and familiarity of IB courses, with the depth and specialism of an IBTEC in Art.

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Focussing our first journey into the IBCP around Art, is a very deliberate decision; as a discipline which requires not only finesse and imagination but also critical thinking and resilience, it is a great fit for us. It provides a bespoke option which is tailored for those whose ambitions are firmly rooted in the creative sector. By fostering an environment where artistry and professionalism intersect, we are enabling students to excel in their chosen fields whilst preparing them for the diverse opportunities of the 21st-century landscape.

Our alumni stories stand as a beacon of the potential that awaits our graduates. They are illustrative of the heights our students can reach with dedication and the right educational support. Andrea Gatchalian’s journey to the bright lights of London’s theatrical stages, Acksharaa Balaji’s harmonious venture across borders, Xavier Froger and Pirapong (Pipo) Dick’s transformation from classroom to album, Piers Illing’s courage to innovate, and Paul Sirisant’s myriad achievements – each narrative captures the essence of what we aspire to cultivate through the IBCP

A SPRINGBOARD OF SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE We expect the IBCP to provide a springboard for our students, launching them into their future with a robust portfolio of skills and knowledge. Our Careers and University Counsellors will come alongside the families of our inaugural cohort, provide guidance through to universities, and helping them to navigate pathways into the creative industries. The IB have been very astute in delivering a careers-related curriculum, and I am so proud that Patana will now be delivering this curriculum. The IB is renowned world-wide for its quality and values; Students who study the IBCP will benefit from this recognition, whilst also specialising in an area of passion to gain a competitive edge.

Their studies will align with the dynamic nature of the art sector, ensuring that our students are not only adept at their craft, whilst benefitting from the IB approach to ensure that they are visionary in their approach to the arts as 26/01/2024

a transformative power in society.

I would like to express my gratitude publicly to Andy Roff, Steph Evans and Aazar Munir for their hard work, dedication and commitment that has brought this idea to reality, and to Chris Ferne and Ross Corker in our Arts faculty for being so eager to embrace this opportunity. I know that our community will really benefit from their work.

As we embark on this next phase of growth at Bangkok Patana, I would like to invite the entire Patana community to celebrate this milestone with us. The addition of the IBCP underscores our unwavering commitment to providing a diverse array of pathways for our students, ensuring that each one has the opportunity to thrive, excel in their passions, and contribute meaningfully to our world. If you have a family member who is passionate about a specific area of study, this could be the perfect opportunity for them. While our initial steps revolve around Art, our ambitious goal for the future is to offer a suite of diverse options that truly cater to our students’ needs. We eagerly look forward to engaging with you to shape those pathways and usher in a new era of educational excellence at Bangkok Patana School.

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The Importance of Building Your Story in Kim Ekstrom, Careers and University Counsellor

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econdary School serves as a vehicle for self-discovery, where students explore a myriad of interests and passions through extracurricular activities. As our students navigate the transformative years of secondary school, they are not merely attending classes and earning grades; they are building their unique story. Your story is more than just a list of achievements; it encompasses the experiences, challenges, insights, and personal growth that accompany each activity.

TELLING YOUR STORY TO UNIVERSITIES In Year 13, students are asked to articulate their story through college essays and personal statements. For instance, when applying to UK universities, students are required to explain, through the Personal Statement, why they have chosen to apply to a specific university course. They discuss their academic interest and explain how they have explored this interest beyond the classroom. What relevant books and articles have they read? Have they been involved in projects, research, or internships related to the chosen course? These are not just checkboxes; they are the building blocks of a student’s unique story, providing tangible evidence of their passion and commitment to the course.

Similarly, European and Asian universities often ask students to write a Motivational Letter. This essay delves into the ’why’ behind the chosen program, inviting students to articulate their motivations and aspirations. Students write about their journey of discovering a passion and the steps they have taken to pursue it.

In the United States, the college application process goes beyond academic interest and ability. US colleges are not only interested in what subjects spark a student’s curiosity but also in the values and characteristics that define them. They want to understand the impact a student has had on their school and wider community. This impact becomes a crucial element of their story, weaving together academic interests with personal values and community engagement.

STORIES BEYOND THE CLASSROOM Your story isn’t just about what you’ve studied; it’s about how you’ve explored and applied that knowledge outside the classroom.

Consider a student passionate about environmental science.

Their story could involve participation in a local conservation project, conducting independent research on local ecosystems, or even initiating a school-wide recycling program.

These experiences demonstrate not only genuine interest but

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leadership, active engagement, and initiative.

For students interested in literature, the story may involve organising a book club, participating in writing competitions, or contributing to a literary magazine. These activities aren’t mere hobbies; they showcase a genuine love for the subject and a proactive approach to nurturing that passion, which has had an impact on the community.

YOUR VALUES AND CHARACTERISTICS US colleges are not only interested in the ’what’ but also the ’who.’ They want to understand the values and characteristics that define you. What qualities have been expressed through your extracurricular engagements?

For instance, a student who has actively contributed to community service may articulate how this experience has shaped their sense of responsibility, empathy, and leadership. The story is no longer just about achievements; it’s about the personal growth and development that has occurred through these experiences.

A student engaged in sports might reflect on the discipline, teamwork, and resilience cultivated on the field or in the gym, and how they have imparted these qualities to younger students. Your story is a testament of not just physical skills but of how challenges and successes have shaped your character.

STRATEGIES FOR BUILDING YOUR STORY Explore Diverse Interests: Secondary school is the perfect time to explore various interests. Join a variety of clubs, participate in community service projects, in and out of school, try out different sports, and engage in unfamiliar activities.

Each experience contributes to the richness of your story and through this exploration you will find activities that are a good fit for you personally.

Document Your Journey: Keep a record of your extra-curricular activities, achievements, and personal reflections. This not only helps you in building your story but also serves as a valuable resource when the time comes to start writing your college essays, personal statements, and motivational letters.

Reflect on Impact: When engaging in activities, consider the impact on yourself and others. How have these experiences shaped your values, skills, and perspective? In what ways have you had a positive impact on our school environment and the lives of others? Reflecting on impact will add depth and authenticity to your story.

Connect the Dots: Your story is more than a disjointed collection of activities. Find common themes and connections that tie together your academic interests, extra-curricular en-

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Secondary School gagements, and personal values. Your aim is to provide the universities with a coherent story.

Protecting the Environment Foundation to create a test rice paddy using environmentally friendly techniques, he directly contributed to addressing environmental concerns. He subYOUR STORY, YOUR FUTURE mitted his project to the 2023 North American Association for Secondary School is not just a stepping stone to higher Environmental Education (NAAEE) Pratt & Whitney E-STEM education; it’s an essential chapter in your life story. Every Award and won $15,000 USD for the People Protecting the choice, every challenge, and every success contribute to Environment Foundation, the first organisation from Thailand the unique story you present to colleges and universities. As to win this prestigious award! His project allowed him to you navigate the dynamic landscape of Secondary School, make a meaningful impact on a matter of great importance remember that building your story is not about conforming to his community, and his work was illustrated in an article to expectations but about authentically expressing your pas- on the International Baccalaureate’s (IBO) website: bit.ly/ sions, values, and the journey that defines you. Embrace the ibo_blog. opportunity to shape your own story, for, in addition to good grades, it is your story that will open doors to your future.

EXAMPLES OF PATANA STUDENTS’ STORIES BEYOND THE CLASSROOM Freya Yao is a highly skilled mathematician and a strong advocate for gender equality in STEM. She took on a leadership role as the president of SWENext to champion the cause of girls in STEM. She established the ‘Math Games & Puzzles Club’ for Key Stage 3 girls, offering engaging 8-week programmes to ignite interest in STEM through critical thinking games, catering to students of all abilities. She also founded ‘Math Power 4 Girls,’ a programme that mentors IGCSE Year 10 students, providing them with a strong mathematics foundation. Her leadership, innovation, and dedication have had a lasting impact on our school environment, and she has encouraged many girls to excel in maths and develop a genuine passion for STEM.

Johnny Tungsubutra explored his passion for sustainability through his Rice Farming Project. He discovered that the root cause of Thailand’s air pollution is that rice stumps are burned in rural Thailand. He learned that farmers resort to burning these stumps because of economic pressures, highlighting the cycle of debt they face. By collaborating with the People 26/01/2024

Pa Tantiponganant, driven by her entrepreneurial spirit and a deep concern for environmental issues, founded the CleanWater Initiative: Treating Canal’s Odour and Water Quality, showcasing an impressive ability to apply her academic passions beyond the classroom. To address the challenges, she innovatively employed Effective Microorganisms (EM), a blend of beneficial microbes typically used in agriculture, in a

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wastewater canal near her residence.

Pa’s dedication resulted in successful collaborations with JBio Ltd. and EMRO Asia Ltd. She liaised with the Bangkok Metro-

and her steadfast commitment to making a tangible, positive impact on the lives of disadvantaged women.

Terry Lu is passionate about all things related to Physics and Maths and continually seeks opportunities to put his theoretical understanding of these subjects into practise to address big questions related to sustainability and efficiency. He is fascinated by the relevance of physics to innovation in the engineering world and how this synthesis can creatively solve problems as they continuously arise. During his summer internship at a Taiwanese R&D company, he worked collaboratively to test-run the user interface compatibility of a course developed

by III and IBM on machine learning and artificial intelligence. He also learnt about the application of smart technologies like sensors, locations systems and politan Area and engaged with professionals and volunteers. robots that The outcomes were remarkable, with a significant reduction are used in agriculture. As part of the Rescued Glass Club he in odours from the wastewater canal and an improvement in is a member of, he developed and prototyped the first susthe overall health of her community. Her initiative extended to tainable SEASAC trophy in Thailand made of upcycled glass treating canals in other communities, including one in Bang- bottles that the group had collected. He worked alongside kok’s largest slum and another adjacent to a Buddhist temple. engineers at Aurum Electronics Corp and gained an appreciation of how physics is involved at every step of the manuTaey Traisorat’s primary interests lie in Art, Design Technology facturing process. and Economics. Demonstrating an exceptional level of crea- Amanda Ljungberg’s passion for literature, creative writing tivity, she initiated TRAI Collection, a project aimed at support- and film extends beyond the classroom. She is Chief Editor ing low-income women in the southern region of Thailand who of the school’s Core Magazine, English tutor at a local Thai excel in traditional Manora beading. Taey empowered these school and a regular participant in school and international women by transforming their skills into a sustainable source of writing competitions. Thanks to her fluent and unique writing income, thereby not only preserving their cultural heritage but style, she won both also enhancing their economic opportunities. Her innovative the 21/22 and approach included modernising their traditional designs, im- 22/23 Patana plementing effective marketing strategies, and establishing an Poetry Prize. She e-commerce model for the project (traicollection.co.th). TRAI is the Patana repCollection serves as a testament to Taey’s entrepreneurial flair resentative for FOBISIA Creative Writing, winner of the Balloon Debate and last summer completed a two-week film course where she honed her script writing skills and directed and produced a short film in collaboration with others.

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Community Engagement at Bangkok Patana Foreword by Caroline Ferguson, Leader of Global Citizenship Curriculum and Community Engagement.

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ommunity engagement is a vibrant and exciting aspect of many of our students’ lives at Bangkok Patana. In the Secondary School we currently have 26 student-led teams all working to identify and meet a real need in the community, either at the local or global scale. These Secondary teams aim to tackle issues ranging from environmental problems such as plastic pollution, to socio-economic problems such as gender inequality or lack of access to healthcare. Their engagement takes the form of advocacy, in which teams raise awareness about their issue or the work of their community partner, fund-raising for this work and direct-action service activities. Senior students who choose to get involved in these teams may do so as part of their IB Creativity, Activity and Service (CAS) programme or in order to meet the requirements of the Duke of Edinburgh International Award. However, younger students from Key Stage 3 are also keen to get involved, and often take a leading role. Whatever their motivation, there is no doubt that all are passionate about the issues they engage with and dedicated to bringing about positive change.

You can find out more about what our Community Engagement teams have been getting up to by reading our weekly articles, starting with this week’s contribution by the Patana Marine Conservation group (PMCG).

PMCG | PATANA MARINE CONSERVATION GROUP

by Kate Clare and Jintana (Amy) Lauer

and good opportunities to give back to the environment and keep natural habitats sustainable.

Why are beach and reef clean ups good?

Beach and reef cleanups are incredibly important for several reasons. Firstly, they help to protect and preserve marine ecosystems. The article below from Take 3 highlights that a significant portion of marine debris originates from land based sources,

About us: Patana Marine Conservation group (PMCG) is a group of tenacious students who want to be actively engaged with the growing issue of deteriorating marine life and want to address this issue by planning trips to coastal areas affected by pollution and litter and clear the debris from the beach and ocean and conserve our planet.

We train scuba divers so that we can be actively involved in scientific coral monitoring and restoration work. We normally have around 2-3 trips per year which includes a beach and reef cleanup, an overnight such as littering and imtrip and one other. proper waste Our recent trip: disposal. By In December 2023, PMCG decided to take action removing this by going to the coasts of Pattaya on a diving and debris from snorkelling trip to minimise the debris and trash floating beaches, we around in the ocean. Groups of students from a wide can prevent range of Year groups gathered together in hopes of it from entertaking action so the marine life has a better and healthier ing the ocean sustained environment. and causing harm to marine life. Additionally, cleanups This trip was a good opportunity for many students to raise awareness about the detrimental effects of pollution embark on an adventure as divers got to experience ma- and encourage individuals to adopt more sustainable rine life but also took an active role in cleaning the environ- practices. They also provide an opportunity for commument and compiling a collection of trash in provided mesh nity engagement, fostering a sense of responsibility and bags. Students removed plastic debris, discarded fishing collective action towards protecting our environment. Ulgear and other pollutants in the ocean. For the students timately, beach and reef cleanups play a crucial role in who volunteered to snorkel, they collected various types safeguarding our oceans and promoting a more sustainof trash on the ocean surface and on the beach shores. able future. https://www.take3.org/its-a-fact-beachThis experience gave students many cherished memories clean-ups-matter/ 26/01/2024

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PTG UPDATES

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PTG UPDATES

PTG IS PROUD TO PRESENT TUK TUK’S FIRST WASTE LESS WEEK. TUK TUK’S FIRST DAY IS BOOK NUMBER 4OUT OF 10, ALL WRITTEN BY ANA BOLAKOSO, YEAR 9.

GRAB YOUR COPY NOW FROM THE TIGER SHOP FOR 100 THB ONLY!

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Updates from Secondary Music

THIS YEAR’S PERFORMERS: LEAH LIN, Y8 SIRIANONG (PLEARN) DEVAKULA NA AYUDHYA, Y7 BAYLA SOMBOONVECHAKARN, Y8 TAT SEN DAVIS (DAVE) CHEUNG, Y7 ARISSARA HUTCHINSON, Y10 LUCY SMITH, Y11 NARIDA (NIA) EKARAPHANICH, Y8 KATE SCHESTAK, Y11 PISHA KALLAYAWINAI, Y11 NICOLE (NIKKIE) ARANETA, Y8 PATANA STRING QUARTET PATANA CHAMBER CHOIR

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ESS Expedition to Kaeng Krachan Coke Smith, Curriculum Leader, Environmental Science

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f one is lucky, as a teacher, there are learning situations where one feels it is amazing to be paid for something so awesome. This is how I feel about our ESS (Environmental Systems & Societies) expeditions that we conduct every January.

most amazing thing I have ever seen”, one student said after seeing the Sun Bear. “I can’t believe how the mother takes such gentle care of her orange baby,” another student said after watching the Langur family troop for some time. This is what it is all about in my humble opinion.

For this experience, 34 of our Year 12 students traveled to Kaeng Krachan National Park, one of the Thailand’s premier wilderness areas located less than three hours from Bangkok on a good traffic day. We spent four days in the natural habitats of Kaeng Krachan investigating various aspects of the ecosystem’s ecology and flora and fauna.

One of our most rigorous topics in ESS is how to empirically measure the environment. With this as our general aim, students are taught how to correctly sample biotic (living) features of an environment – things like aquatic macroinvertebrates and terrestrial insect fauna, etc. We spend considerable time in the field learning how to humanely sample the biota and try to determine what abiotic (non-living) factors may influence their populations, their distribution and diversity.

Our students are extremely fortunate in that Bangkok Patana School has invested heavily in this curricular ara to create one of the most well-equipped and staffed environmental science programs in Asia. I would even go so far as to claim that our programme is number one. With this in mind, our students learned how to use state of the art equipment to sample many abiotic aspects of the ecosystems explored in Kaeng Krachan ranging from dissolved oxygen to biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) to pH, dissolved solids, electrical conductivity, soil quality, light and sound intensity and so much more.

Along with the empirical scientific studies our students had plenty of time to search for and spend quality time with many spectacular forest animal species. Watching my students’ excitement of seeing a Malayan Sun Bear up close and personal was awesome. Seeing the joy on the faces of our Year 12’s while watching and working directly under Spectacled Langurs and Lar Gibbons was sublime.

Over the years, I have seen so many transitions in my students from individuals that may be either indifferent to or only passive observers of wildlife to true lovers of wildlife. For me this is the true reward – watching young people explode with enthusiasm and excitement in seeing so much nature and listening to their comments. “This is the

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Image Credit: Coke Smith and Turbo Ubonrat

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The Physics of Everyday Things Meera Krishnan, 12B and Shruti Zariye, 12G

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n13th December, the Year 12 IB Physics students visited Dreamworld to experience the applications of physics in the real world through rollercoasters.

One of the most memorable rides was Tornado which most people on the trip either had the privilege of experiencing or had to settle for watching from afar. The Tornado takes you as high as a seven storey building as it accelerates you to a top speed of 75 km/hr whilst spinning. The highlight for many, especially those who enjoyed their KFC right before! We were able to see the application of the basics of kinematics such as centripetal force and momentum on a much larger scale than in our classroom. Also, we were able to see the entire view of Dreamworld from a bird’s eye-view (quite literally!).

Another unforgettable ride was Viking, during which we were able to apply our knowledge of momentum and fields to understand the physics of the ride and the feeling of apparent weightlessness. The ride simulated the experience of the turbulent waves on a large pirate ship, whilst being in the air, through the use of simple harmonic motion and centripetal force. During each oscillation (swing back and forth), we went higher and higher until we reached the maximum height where we had the highest GPE which was transferred to kinetic energy as we were hurled down towards the ground.

Finally, whilst hanging from the Sky Coaster, we could experience the several forces acting on us such as air resistance, weight, friction from the barrier (thankfully) and normal force, from which we could calculate the resultant force to find out our acceleration, which kept changing.

As we were watching the ride, we were able to clearly envision the forces acting on the people which we were able to use in class to draw our free body diagrams.

After this trip, we are more observant to seeing the physics around us and better understand how certain concepts of physics are applied to the real world. Overall the trip was extremely enjoyable, obviously because physics was involved!

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Into the Forest of Khao Yai Amy Brettell, 12S

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fter school, on an ordinary Monday afternoon, 33 students left for the 2024 Biology, Ecology field trip to Khao Yai. Their expectations were low but their heads were filled with hope for the week ahead. Accompanying them, five compassionate teachers: Mr Burrell, Mr Lambert, Doctor Holden, Ms Unwin, Ms Kim and Khun A (Science Technician, Biology).

the stability and quality of the area. Furthermore, abiotic factors and biotic factors that impinge on each other. As well as the various types of species of invertebrates, birds and many more. Thus, sequently, we learnt how to evaluate the outcome of our data and whether our way of collecting data was the most efficient. Finally, over the entirety of the trip we played the role of an UNESCO World Heritage Investigor, in which we had to establish whether Khao Yai’s National Park has abided by their three goals and responsibilities to fulfil UNESCO’s guidelines. Then, both initially, individually and then collectively we suggested improvements to further support the guidelines.

When arriving at the place that would be called home for the next five days, Mr Burrell introduced the intention behind the trip. We were then offered journals, which we used throughout the trip diligently to take elaborate notes. The following mornings, groups of bustling students headed towards Khao Yai National Park via minibuses, each to their assigned activities. The mornings were always filled with a brisk, chilly breeze and the distant calls of gibbons and a variety of birds.

Mr Burrell began this trip by describing ecology as ‘evolution in action’. Referencing Charles Darwin’s work of natural selection, his fundamental ideas, though written in 1859, is still extraordinary to modern day. His theory about evolution transcending from natural selection has been the mechanism to understanding life.

There were an abundance of activities organised which kept us busy for the entirety of the trip. Each group had alternating activities; however, mornings consisted of either the Bird survey, the Lichen distribution study or the Visitor centre trail. Noon til the afternoon included the Forest Stability and change trek followed by the Nation park visitor centre, the Grasslands and river study accompanied by the Tourism impact at Haew Suwat Waterfall or finding the forest profile by transecting along an abiotic gradient. Evenings were consumed with either the visit to watch bats at the Khao Yai Bat Caves or the Night Safari.

Over the three full days, we learnt a lot about ecology. From how lichen, a composite organisms that arises from algae or cyanobacteria, lives among filaments of fungus isn’t the only example of a symbiotic relationship in the ecosystem. We learnt how to observe patterns and trends recorded after collecting data at the glasslands, the river, and the forest.

Discovering how there are indicator species which reflect

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Though this trip has focused on Biology in the light of education, we as students have been given more than just the understanding of the minute intricacies but a deeper appreciation. To pay closer attention to things we may have over looked in the past, that a log isn’t just a log, it’s a whole microbiome for fungi that undertake decomposition. We have also had to overcome fears and challenges such as the fear of bugs (more specifically wasps) and the challenge of working together as a team.

Even though now we are able to correlate and visualise things learnt in class at a higher degree to assist us in answering evaluation questions in future exams.

Ecology isn’t just a topic or specification needed to achieve for IB, but it’s everything that surrounds us. We’ve learnt that It’s our relationship with nature, love, to study ecology is to appreciate life at it’s truest form.

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Thus, as the students departed back to Bangkok, many were left in a melancholic mood as their experience excelled all expectations with fresh yearning and infatuation for nature, the Ecology course and for Biology.

Thank you to the teachers for consistently being attentive, friendly and making sure we were constantly safe. A big thank you to Khun A for organising the trip, making sure everything went smoothly, and a warm well done to all the Biology students, who throughout this trip wore benevolent smiles whilst staying engaged and inquisitive.

GET YOUR 5 COLOURS PER DAY AT THE CANTEEN Every type of vegetable and fruit has unique features. It is recommended that you eat some of each colour to get the most out of them.

Red, yellow-orange, green, blue-purple, and white are the five primary identifying colours, which are determined by a variety of natural pigments. Let’s find out together in the canteen!

Every day, we present a salad bar with all five colours of fresh vegetables and fruit. Examples include beetroots, many types of lettuce, broccoli, sweet peppers, sweet corn, radishes, carrots, pumpkins, green and red apples, dragon fruits, pineapples, and cantaloupes.

There are numerous menu options at the canteen that include a wide range of vegetables and fruits, including prunes, mushrooms, asparagus, tomatoes, cauliflower, cabbage, red and white onions, chilli pepper, baby corn, carrots, and kale. Furthermore, in the salad bar, you can taste the delicious mixed fruit salad, which caontains a variety of fruits in one dish.

So it’s quite simple to obtain five different colours of vegetables and fruits at the canteen!

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Tech Waste: Transforming Bangkok’s E-Waste Landscape Ana Bolakoso, SEC Key Stage 3 Rep

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s a school that values sustainability, it’s essential to address a challenge that often remains hidden in plain sight: technology waste. From outdated smartphones to obsolete laptops, our ever-evolving digital world generates an enormous amount of electronic waste (e-waste). In this article, we will explore the issue of tech waste in Bangkok and share strategies to reduce its impact on our environment.

Understanding the Problem: With technology becoming increasingly disposable, electronic devices are discarded at an alarming rate. Old smartphones, tablets, and laptops often end up in landfills or incinerators, posing significant environmental risks. E-waste contains hazardous materials like lead, mercury, and cadmium, which can contaminate soil and water, harming both human health and the environment.

into an Art installation. These DIY projects not only reduce tech waste but also showcase the potential for sustainable innovation.

Recycling Centers: Proper recycling of e-waste is crucial. In Bangkok, several recycling centres specialise in responsibly dismantling and disposing of electronic devices. These centres extract valuable materials for reuse and safely dispose of hazardous components. Make it a habit to drop off your old gadgets at these facilities rather than tossing them in the trash.

E-Waste Thailand: E-Waste Thailand is a leading e-waste recycling company in Bangkok that offers collection and recycling services for various electronic devices.

TechWaste Recycling Thailand: TechWaste RecyBuy-Back Programmes: One effective way to reduce cling provides comprehensive e-waste recycling solutech waste is through buy-back programmes. Many tions, including secure data destruction and responsible electronic manufacturers and retailers now offer incen- disposal. tives to customers who return their old devices when upEco-Conscious Purchasing: When buying new elecgrading to newer ones. These programmes not only help tronic devices, consider products that prioritise sustainaextend the life of electronic devices but also ensure that bility. Look for devices with eco-friendly certifications or they are properly recycled or refurbished. When shop- those made from recycled materials. Choose gadgets ping for new tech gadgets, consider brands that actively with a longer lifespan and prioritise repairability. By makparticipate in buy-back initiatives. ing informed choices, you can contribute to a reduction Charitable Gifting: Donating your old technology in tech waste from the outset. Consider buying additional can make a positive impact on communities in need. support like AppleCare which is offered at time of purThere are several charitable organisations in Bangkok chase. that accept used electronic devices and distribute them Let’s make a commitment to reduce tech waste and ento schools, non-profits, and underserved populations. sure that Bangkok’s technological innovation is matched By donating your old tech gadgets, you not only extend by responsible environmental stewardship. their useful life but also empower others to access educaTogether, we can build a cleaner, greener, and more tional and communication resources. As a school Patana sustainable Bangkok. does this annually.

Upcycling and Repurposing: Get creative with your old electronic devices! Upcycling and repurposing are innovative ways to breathe new life into outdated tech.

For example, you can turn an old smartphone into a security camera or a dedicated music player. With a bit of tinkering, obsolete laptops can become home servers or media centres. You might choose to turn a motherboard

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Patana Page-Turners

Your monthly round up of reading recommendations. This month’s theme… Renewal INTERVIEW: RICH FAULDING - HEAD OF SOCIAL AND EMOTIONAL COUNSELLING, SECONDARY 1. Why do you enjoy reading?

Reading for me is an escape, often I think from the complex and at times challenging world we find ourselves in 2024. I enjoy being taken to different worlds, realities and universes that are fantastical or futuristic. A dream has always been to write and create my own world in which magic and technology collide in cool ways, however I have not yet found time for this endeavour! Give me a beach, an amazing fantasy or sci-fi book or comic and I am happy.

2. Which fictional character would you most / least like to meet in real life and why?

The character “Death” from Neil Gaiman’s outrageously good Sandman graphic novel series. There have been some amazing versions of this character in fiction (nod to the late, great Terry Pratchett for his representation), however Gaiman’s portrayal of her (yes ‘her’) nails it in my eyes. Strength, empathy, care, sensitivity, and humour are the core parts of her personality, the central aspect to her character being the very human relationships she has with those around her. She is also cool as hell.

3. What does ‘renewal’ mean to you? Do you have any book suggestions for this theme?

Renewal for me means positive change, potentially (but not always) following an experience of great personal or societal challenge.

Books to read on this? I will go to another graphic novel: V for Vendetta by Alan Moore. It is the comic book for our times.

ny! I enjoyed it because I could relate to the story as a ‘new kid’ at Patana this year. We recommend this book to anyone who enjoys comic books or realistic fiction.

Jozefien Lanneau, 5C Front Desk by Kelly Yang The main character is a girl called Mia, who has moved from the US to China with her parents. Mia works in a motel, but she struggles because she doesn’t have the same things as the other people, like jeans, for example. Will Mia go and buy jeans or will there be a more complicated and interesting outcome? I like this book because Mia doesn’t give up and she’s a great role model. I think children in Year 4 and above would love this book. I recommended it to lots of children in my class and they have all really enjoyed it. There are lots of other books in this series, but you should start with this one.

Teera Sritrakul, 5L ‘On the Move’: Poems about Migration by Michael Rosen This collection of poems focuses on the theme of migration, which is when people move to a new area or country to find work or better living conditions. Some of the poems feature different languages and explore the experiences of generations of people who have been displaced from their homes due to safety reasons. I like these poems because they highlight the hope that many people have, despite difficult circumstances, and how they always look for the positives! Reading these poems helped me to understand what other people are going through elsewhere in the world. I would recommend this for Year 5 or 6 students. One of my favourite poems is called ‘Today: One Day’.

Today: The rain has died My shoes have died The sun has died My coat has died The earth has died Today.

One day: KEY STAGE 2 BOOK The rain will flower RECOMMENDATIONS: My shoes will laugh Teoman Uvez and Nathaniel Do, 5L New Kid by Jerry Craft The sun will sing This book is about an African American child, Jordan, who receives My coat will fly financial support to attend an expensive private school, Washington Heights, in New York. He dreams of attending Art College, but The earth will dance his parents disapprove. At school, he faces challenges, but even- One day.

FS AND KEY STAGE 1 RECCOMENDATIONS: FS & KS1: Quinn Walton, FS2R My Pet Star by Corrine Averiss & Rosalind Beardshaw This is one of my favourite bedtime stories, it tells the tale of a sad star who has lost his glow and the little girl who finds him. She looks after him and loves him so much that he finds his sparkle again and with renewed confidence rejoins the other stars in the sky. I love it when the star is so bright the little girl has to wear her sunglasses in bed!

This story has lovely rhyme and beautiful illustrations making it ideal for anyone in Nursery, Foundation Stage or KS1.

tually makes friends. The story follows Jordan as he develops new friendships and settles into school life. Will he remain at Washington Heights, or pursue his dream of Art College? This book is very fun-

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Curious if we have any of these books available in our libraries? Come and Visit us KEY STAGE 3 BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS: Momo Lee 8H The Maze Runner by James Dashner After losing his memory, Thomas finds himself in a glade and is welcomed by a ragtag group of teenagers. Could the answers to all of his questions lie beyond a mysterious maze full of unknown dangers?

I recommend this book because it is the perfect mix of adventure and mystery, set in a strange dystopian world. The characters have distinct personalities, and you can’t help but root for them.

KEY STAGE 4 AND 5 BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS: Elliot Wallin 12R Silence of the Lambs by Thomas Harris This book is about a rookie FBI agent named Clarice Starling, who turns to Dr Hannibal Lecter in order to gain insight on a ruthless murderer nicknamed Buffalo Bill. Lecter himself is an imprisoned cannibal and Starling must play psychological games with him to get what she needs.

I recommend this book because it has a very gripping plot, intense (and sometimes gruesome) action sequences, and vivid worldbuilding. Harris also does an excellent job at introducing and developing his characters. Lecter, for example, never really has much of his emotions or thoughts revealed to the reader, creating a suspenseful and ominous atmosphere while reading. Despite this book being the second instalment in the Hannibal Lecter series, the characters are introduced as if they’re new so there is no need to worry if you haven’t read the first book before. Definitely one of the best crime-thrillers out there.

Animal Farm by George Orwell This book is about a group of farm animals which revolt against their owner, marking the beginning of a new civilization with its own (communist) political system. This perfect animal farm however, begins to crack over time as those in charge become corrupt and slowly start to resemble the very same people they swore to fight against.

I recommend this book because it is a very unique take on the Soviet Union and the rise of communism, identifying its flaws and how the system can go wrong. The book displays the power of propaganda, censorship, and terror and how a few people in charge can brainwash the public. Orwell’s works are well known for their interesting takes on political topics and if you are interested in what he does, this book is a very good place to start. It is a very short read (less than 100 pages), but it flawlessly displays the discrepancies of the communist system in a comical manner.

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#264: Snapchat Update: New Parental Tools for a Safer 2024

Let’s delve into the new features that Snapchat is introducing, offering you a clearer insight into your teen’s Snapchat settings:

friends are up to and uncovering global stories. But who’s monitoring your teen’s location pin? With the new tools, you’ll know if your teen is sharing their whereabouts on the Snap Map, and more importantly, with whom. Rest Story Settings Insight: Your teen loves sharing their assured, it’s their choice to share, and it’s your peace of story, be it with their entire friend list or just a close-knit mind to know. circle. Snapchat’s new tools allow you to see precisely who’s in the audience of your teen’s narrative. Whether Enable or Disable Replies from My AI Chatbot: Anthey’re broadcasting their day to every friend on their list other option that parents can avail themselves of via the or sharing intimate moments with a select few, you’ll have parental control tools is the ability to enable or disable visibility into their choices, ensuring their stories are seen replies from the My AI chatbot. You might recall in a preby the right eyes. vious blog, we had some concerns about this feature, so thankfully, parents can now disable replies from this Contact Settings Clarity: Communication is key, but so feature on their teen’s account. is privacy. With Snapchat’s updated features, you can now understand how your teen manages their contact More details here: Expanding Our In-App Parental settings. Are they open to messages from every added Tools (snap.com) friend or just their phone contacts? This peek into their Have a great weekend! preferences ensures that their chat list is well-curated and comfortable for them.

Brian Taylor Snap Map Awareness: The world of Snapchat is vast, and the Snap Map brings it all together, showing what

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Assistant Principal, Technology for Learning

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