Page 1 | January 2014
Volume 5 Issue 4
January 2014
IN THIS ISSUE:
2014/2015 RE-REGISTRATION NOW OPEN
ELT Update
2
Annual Giving Donors
3
Annual Giving Update
4
Students Exploring 3D Printing
5
DP Preparatory Exams
6
Deputy Headmaster Blog
7
Facilities News
8
Kindergarten Learning Science
9
Classrooms Without Walls
10
Grade 3 Exploring the Forest
11
Around Meadowridge
12
Student Achievements
16
Celebration of Culture
18
Library Update
20
OSEF Exchange
21
Grade 1 Rock Climbing
22
Parent Guild Update
23
MEADOWRIDGE SCHOOL 12224-240th Street Maple Ridge, BC V4R 1N1 www.meadowridge.bc.ca t: 604.467.4444 | f: 604.467.4989
Re-registration will be open for current students from Friday, January 31 to Friday, February 21, 2014. If you are new to Meadowridge this year, you may have questions about this procedure. We encourage you to contact the school at 604.467.4444, stop by the Advancement Office or contact Christine Bickle via email at christine.bickle@meadowridge.bc.ca or 604.467.4444.
The Meadowridge Mini Gryphon is printed in-house to reduce costs. Meadowridge School is proud to be an accredited International Baccalaureate Continuum World School.
Mea d ow r idge Sch o o l
Page 2 | January 2014
EDUCATIONAL LEADERSHIP TEAM UPDATE Student Wellness – Directors have been working with consultants and attending training in order to review our supports for student wellness across the grades. Mr. Banack, Mrs. Bereza and Mrs. Hughes-Grant recently attended a workshop on “Worries & Woes: Preventing Anxiety in Children – Educating the Heart Series” by Lynn Miller. More information can be found at http://www.anxietybc.com/ worries-and-woes-preventing-anxiety-children. In general, a school where low teacher to student ratios and caring relationships between adults and youth prevail is a place where “wellness” for all is better ensured. Although Meadowridge is a place where we hope no student feels anonymous and every student feels important, it is prudent from time to time to review more formal supports to caring for others. To that end, we have been systematically reviewing our supports for issues related to student wellness within the school and community. To note, Mrs. Hughes-Grant has been working closely with parents and Dr. Ross Laird. We are proud to announce that they are in the process of developing a series of workshops for teachers, parents and students from Grades 4 to 12 on the topics of “Addiction and Mental Health”. For more information on Dr. Laird, see his bio at http://counsellingbc.com/listings/rlaird.htm. Transitional Learning Support Programme – this year Meadowridge piloted a programme designed to support mission appropriate applicants who required supplemental support in one subject area, particularly in English. Mrs. Banack, along with Ms. Uppal have worked with administration, students and parents to develop and deliver the Transitional Learning Support Programme. This programme has provided up to four blocks of additional instruction in English language skills (reading, writing and speaking) to 13 students from Grades 3 to 10. Feedback from teachers, students and parents of those enrolled has been overwhelmingly positive and at the moment students are predicted to do well without support in the coming year. Technology Update – Mr. Niwa (Director of Technology in Education) will provide a more complete report in a future edition of the Mini Gryphon. However, I’m happy to announce that we recently conducted both an internal and external audit of the use of technology to support operations and instructional effectiveness across the school. To note, this year Mr. Niwa developed a “Responsible Use Agreement” that provides guidelines for staying safe online and the ethical use of the Internet. He has also been instrumental in leading provincial efforts across ISABC schools to make sense of the issues surrounding cyberbullying and adopting the use of www. erasebullying.com. I am also encouraged by feedback that the majority of staff feel systems and technical support ensure they are effective in the classroom as they deliver lessons. Our intent is to use technology to thoughtfully support instructional efforts. Our device inventory reflects a balanced model of implementation. Through the Annual Fund, we recently purchased iPads for the Library and P.E. Department, as well as Smartboards for two classrooms in the PYP. ISABC PD Day – on Friday, February 7th, our staff, along with others from local independent schools, will partake in our annual learning conference to be held at St. George’s School. Time away from regular classes to engage in professional learning and reflect on practice is essential to the continual improvement of instruction. The conference promises to be worthwhile, given the large number of offerings. If you’ve ever wondered how teachers spend their professional development time, see the schedule at http://isabcpd2014stgeorges. sched.org/. - Mr. Jason Parker, Deputy Headmaster
Page 3 | January 2014
STUDENTS EXPLORE 3D PRINTING Many tech sites believe 2013 was the year 3D printers began to hit their stride. They are increasing in popularity and with enough manufacturers on the market, they’ve dropped significantly in price. According to a CBC blog (http://www.cbc.ca/newsblogs/ yourcommunity/2013/08/3d-printers-pay-for-themselves-in-under-a-year-study-finds.html), a typical family can recoup the purchase cost of the 3D printer by printing many plastic items at home, rather than buying them. Just recently The Smithsonian Institute (https://3d. si.edu/browser) began 3D scanning many of their exhibits and are making them available online, further taking the concepts of 3D printing mainstream. Why does Meadowridge need 3D printers? We don’t – if the intent is to save money. However, if the intent is to help students create things in their mind, design the items and be able to realize them in real life – we do. Students in Grades 6 to 9 take a course called Design and Technology. The central concept of this course is the design cycle. One component of the design cycle is to create a solution that solves a problem. Many students successfully create a product, however due to time constraints, students rarely have the time to evaluate their initial design and make modifications. The 3D printer will allow students to engage in rapid prototyping, giving them the time to perfect their designs. The printer is not reserved exclusively for the Design and Technology class. Our Robotics Club would benefit from being able to design custom components. Our Fine Arts Department can help students create dynamic pieces of art. Our Humanities classes can print replicas of artifacts to better understand history. Our Science classes can create replicas of insects, of flowers, of DNA and the list continues… Fortunately, for more complex items, we don’t have to create a digital copy of everything we want to print. A great place to start is www. thingiverse.com. A model of almost anything you can imagine can be found here. If the model isn’t quite to our liking, the models can be modified using SketchUp, a free piece of software. A third way of creating a digital copy is to use a 3D scanner. According to www.david-3d.com, with a projector, a camera and a line laser, we can create our own. Meadowridge already has these components, so once the second 3D printer is assembled, the 3D printing club will try to create a 3D scanner. As I told my Design and Technology class: “Before we were bound by what we can find and buy. With a 3D printer, we are only bound by our imagination.” - Mr. Patrick Niwa, Director of Technology
Mr. Dan Wu Visits Meadowridge Mr. Dan Wu, a designer and developer for Tinkerine Studio, came to speak with students and staff about 3D printing. Although the technology has been around for a while, it is gaining a lot of traction and becoming more common. 3D printers stole the show this year at the CES (Consumer Electronics Show). Many companies are investing a lot of money researching how new materials can be used. With multi print heads, printing in different types of plastic, metals, ceramics, sugar and most interestingly chocolate, the possibilities of what can be printed is growing amazingly quickly. Meadowridge’s 3D Printing Club meets at 12:35pm on Tuesday. They are currently assembling the school’s second printer, then they will try to build a 3D scanner with components found around the school. This is an exciting time for technology. If you would like more information, please contact Mr. Patrick Niwa, Director of Technology.
Mea d ow r idge Sch o o l
Page 4 | January 2014
THE MEADOWRIDGE ANNUAL FUND 2014 Campaign Supporting Excellence in Education
Over the last 2 years our community has come together to accomplish some amazing things. On January 7th we celebrated the completion of our gymnasium project and the construction of the first of two greenhouses. Both of these endeavours were listed as Head’s initiatives for Annual Giving. As such, a portion of the unrestricted funds that were donated between 2011 and 2013 were allocated to their funding. Thanks to the generosity of our supporters during that timeframe, these enhancements were able to be completed without drawing from the school’s operational budget and therefore, without effecting tuition. We still have another greenhouse to complete and are awaiting approval as to the location and timing for this to happen. We will be sure to update our community once these plans are in place.
Moving forward… In an effort to continuously improve teaching and learning at all ages and in all areas of our school, the Meadowridge Annual Fund operates throughout the entire year. Funding for special capital projects may still come from Headmaster’s choice, however the emphasis of this campaign will be to provide resources that will have an immediate impact on our children. We will continue to highlight the difference that each donation makes in a child’s day to day experience. Being at the forefront of education requires us to constantly improve our practises and enhance educational resources. The Annual Fund allows for this continuous improvement quickly and efficiently, without effecting tuition. The bottom line: your support makes a difference today and every day thereafter.
We’ve made some changes… Beginning January 1st, 2014, the Annual Fund campaign will now operate on the calendar year, as opposed to starting in September. In an effort to provide the most effective campaign possible, this shift allows us to align with the tax year for more efficient and accurate receipting of gifts. In addition, this timeline matches the re-registration schedule, offering each family an opportunity to make their pledge at the same time as solidifying their commitment to come back for the next year. Of course, gifts can be made at any time throughout 2014 and on either a monthly, quarterly or annual basis. Thank you in advance for your ongoing support.
What can you expect to see in 2014… Before the year began we had already received nearly $60,000 in requests to fund a variety of initiatives. All requests are submitted by teachers and subject to a series of approvals by the appropriate Department Head, Director of Academics, and ultimately the Headmaster. This process ensures alignment with our curriculum, IB programmes and Strategic Plan. An emphasis is being put on connecting the entire continuum so that teaching and learning has a consistent thread throughout the PYP, MYP and DP. In addition to classroom and Library resources, the Arts and Athletics will continue to receive funding each year for a variety of items. In the upcoming months keep an eye out for the following: •
High Definition projector and Electronic Display Screen in the Theatre to augment CWoW presentations and Theatrical performances
•
SMART Boards in Grade 5
•
Mini Science labs in every PYP classroom which include: Microscopes, materials to facilitate exploration and technological interfaces to allow for analysis
•
Additional equipment in the Fitness Room
•
Additional Library resources (43,000 and growing)
Off to a great start… 2014 has already seen an amazing outpouring of support. Thank you to all of our families and friends in the community who continue to support excellence in education. Please recognize our generous contributors listed on the following page. - Mr. Daniel Le Page, Advancement
Page 5 | January 2014
ANNUAL GIVING DONORS Thank you for Contributing!
Ongoing Donors Ampersand Advisory Group
Ms. Cindy Hops
Mr. & Mrs. Philip & Nicola Pitzey
Mr. Ke Bai & Mrs. Ye Hu
Mr. Mark Grant & Mrs. Carrie Hughes-Grant
Mr. & Mrs. Igor & Katerina Pogrebinsky
Mr. Tim Coleman & Miss Tessa Bainbridge
Mr. Richard Hui & Ms. Stephanie Lee
Mr. George Read & Ms. Fay Kingwill
Mr. & Mrs. Chris & Jodi Barrass
Dr. Geoffrey Hutchinson & Dr. Sarah Charney
Mr. Quan Ren & Mrs. Lin Wu
Mrs. Kristal Bereza Dr. Michael Orser & Ms. Christine Bickle Prof. Nicholas Blomley & Ms. Jessie Hill Mr. Rhys Clarke & Mrs. Julie Bournival Mrs. Michelle Brookshaw Mr. Hugh Burke & Ms. Eva Boyd Mr. Feng Xu & Mrs. Shuo Chen Mr. Richard Choi & Mrs. Angie Lee Mr. Roy Choi & Mrs. Jeong-Mi Ryu Mr. Mark Conaghan Mr. & Mrs. Jeff & Katherine Crawford Dr. Malcolm Crozier & Mrs. Alicia Osorio Bustos
Mr. John Hwang & Mrs. Catherine Kim Mr. & Mrs. Ty & Jadina Irving Ms. Lynelle Johns Mr. & Mrs. Kevin & Tracey Kennedy Drs. Murthy & Anu Korada Drs. Ockie Lampen & Kathy Robson Mr. & Mrs. Tom & Rhonda Laurie Mr. Daniel Le Page Mr. Lance Leger & Ms. Sarah Ward Mr. & Mrs. Darrell & Kim Lester Dr. Jun Liu & Mrs. Xiao Wei Zhan Mr. Daofeng Liu & Ms. Quming Chen
Mr. Avio Diniz & Ms. Patricia Lapointe
Mr. Federico Lopez & Ms. Claudia Martinez
Mr. & Mrs. Matthew & Wendy Dockerty
Ms. Xiao Hong Zhou
Mr. Terry Donaldson
Drs. Samir & Sangita Malhotra
Dr. & Mrs. Bill & Barbara Durno
Mr. & Mrs. Robert & Shirley Brunetta
Jay Fraser
Mr. Jamie Marriott
Mrs. Hallie Fraser
Mr. Gareth Mason & Ms. Carolyn Treger
Drs. Deepu & Reena George
Mr. John McLaughlin & Ms. Cheryl David
Mr. Bob Gill & Mrs. Diana Carwithen
Ms. Sherrie Metz
Mr. Kenneth Go & Mrs. Connie Chow-Go
Mr. & Mrs. Harrison & Christy Mooney
Dr. Daniel Gouws & Mrs. Kimberley Buchanan Gouws
Ms. Danielle NoĂŤl
Mr. & Mrs. Alan & Marlene Graveson
Mr. David Noble
Mr. & Mrs. Warwick & Carolyn Green
Ms. Angela Pallister
Mr. & Mrs. Craig & Natalie Gunning
Mr. Jason Parker & Mrs. Nancy Vertel
Mr. & Mrs. Don & Linda Hincks
Mr. & Mrs. Terrance & Moira Passley
Mr. & Mrs. Patrick & Barbara Niwa
Mr. & Mrs. Shawn & Jada Sawatzky Mr. & Mrs. Michael & Chantal Schutz Mr. Bradley Senner & Ms. Tanya Cloete Ms. Jennifer Maynes
Dr. & Mrs. Allen & Rosie Shen
Mr. & Mrs. Aaron & Pamela Schultz-Lessing Mr. & Mrs. Gurjit & Parneet Sidhu Mr. & Mrs. Justin & Jennifer Simpson Dr. & Mrs. Matthew & Masumi Smith Mr. Troy Sobotka & Ms. Andrea Frisby Mr. & Mrs. Dennis & Norma-Jean Spika Mr. & Mrs. Scott & Yoshimi Spurgeon Mr. Kefei Tan & Mrs. May Guo Mr. & Ms. Peter & Alison Thompson Mr. & Mrs. Julian & Marilyn Turner Mr. & Mrs. David & Lyn Tyler Dr. & Mrs. Hanif & Sophie Ukani Ms. Michelle Vally Ms. Tamara Warner Mr. & Mrs. Rick & Susan Waugh Dr. & Mrs. Lawrence & Tracey Welsh Ms. Samantha Coates Mr. William Wong & Ms. Tina Lee Mr. Zhao Bo Xin & Mrs. Wen Wen Wang Mrs. Hwa Youn Cho Ms. Gilda Zivec Mr. Jun Chen & Mrs. Zhe Zhou
The above donors are recognized for their gifts to Annual Giving as of January 29, 2014.
Page 6 | January 2014
Mea d ow r idge Sch o o l
DIPLOMA PROGRAMME PREPARATORY EXAMS Many of you may have noticed a different aura around our Grade 12’s during the first two weeks back from Christmas break. The fact that they were wearing non-uniform clothes signaled something was different. If you stopped any of these students and spoke with them, you also probably noticed that they were tired and quite stressed. All of this was due to the fact that they were completing their Preparatory Exams for the Diploma Programme. These exams are an integral part of helping teachers determine their Anticipated Grades which they will submit to the universities for admission. Understandably, everyone involved was nervous as this was Meadowridge’s first time through the exams. To give everyone an idea of what the exam session was like, I thought I would share a few facts:
IB Diploma Programme Preparatory Exam Facts Exam periods
Students wrote exams for ten days.
Exam lengths
On some days they wrote up to 4 ½ hours of exams on any given subject. For example, if a student was taking Physics, they wrote three different exams for just their Physics class.
Exam structures
These exams were modeled after the ones that students will write in May.
Exam conditions
Students wrote in strict exam conditions. Teachers who were invigilating were not allowed to participate in any other work but rather had to watch the students for an hour at a time. If you ever want to know how slowly time can actually move try invigilating an exam! I wanted to offer my congratulations to all of the Grade 12 students. They took on the challenge of these exams in a very dedicated manner. Thank you also to all of the teachers who, through their hard work and diligence, prepared our students to be successful. Well done! - Mrs. Kristal Bereza, DP Director
4
GRADE 11 EXTENDED ESSAYS The Grade 11 class has now been introduced to the Extended Essay. This is a university level research essay that students complete by November of their Grade 12 year. SFU has created a partnership with Diploma Programme schools by offering students sessions in academic research, library tours and borrowing rights through their own individual library card. On February 12th, our Grade 11 students will be travelling to SFU to participate in this educational opportunity. Our Grade 12’s used the SFU Library extensively for their Extended Essay research and I encourage the Grade 11’s to also take advantage of this fantastic resource.
Thank you
- Mrs. Kristal Bereza, DP Director
Tuesday, January 7, 2014
Page 7 | January 2014
DEPUTY HEADMASTER BLOG
Student Uniforms: Ensuring an “Even Playing Field” or an Affront to Personal Expression? Uniforms Are Actually the Norm
Growing up and attending a Canadian public school, I took for granted that student uniforms were worn almost exclusively in private schools settings. It wasn’t until I worked overseas that I came to realize that most students outside of North America regularly wear a uniform regardless of whether or not they attend a public or independent school. In Colombia, South America, students attending Catholic Schools wore full uniforms, but even those enrolled in impoverished public schools did so as well. For those families that lacked the resources to purchase complete uniforms, a simple crested T-shirt was sufficient. I have been told that this is the case in most countries.
Student Dress Code is a “Hot Topic”
I have worked with parents, teachers and students on innumerable committees and have found that discussions regarding student dress code are hotly debated by all parties. Even when student uniforms are an established component of a school’s culture, it’s amazing how much attention and energy can be drawn up in conversations about the specifics of individual garments and/or clothing accessories. During job action, public school administrators were prevented from holding staff meetings for the better part of a year. When we were finally allowed to meet, I found to my surprise, what teachers were most fired up about was NOT the strike, proposed instructional interventions, or managerial issues. What really had their interest and generated passionate discussion was the proposed adoption of a new student uniform. This really shocked me, but maybe it shouldn’t have. We all take very personally the clothes we choose to wear and/or put on our children.
Why Student Uniforms Are Important
Academics are split on whether or not uniforms improve academic performance or attendance. Given that both are affected by many factors, it would make sense that “proving” a correlation to school uniforms is tenuous at best. However, I’ve yet to read any study that suggests school uniforms impede either. If you have decided to enroll your student in a school with uniforms like Meadowridge, you undoubtedly already have a strong belief in their benefits. Having worked and studied in both environments, I am a firm believer that student uniforms “set the tone” at school and provide numerous benefits, including: “Evening The Playing Field” & Reducing Discrimination: Students deserve to have a learning environment where others judge them by the “content of their character”, their ideas and their actions – not by what they wear or what they can afford to buy. Making Schools Safer: Uniforms provide for a safe and orderly environment where students are easily identifiable. This makes it easier to supervise students in open areas, especially on field trips. Likewise, visitors to campus not dressed in uniform are immediately identifiable. This combined with a “closed campus” has advantages for keeping kids safe. Dressing For Success: There is no question we dress according to the context of our surroundings. Our dress often affects not only how we are viewed by others, but how we view ourselves. In an environment where high expectations for behaviour and academic performance prevail, dressing daily in the school uniform is symbolic of our commitment to a professional learning environment. Students bound for the best universities need to know how, and be comfortable, with “dressing for success”. Cost Savings Over Time: If you buy your child’s uniform from late elementary to middle school this may be untrue as they grow at an astonishing rate. However, many parents share that the initial investment in a school uniform is recouped over time by the long-term savings. Clothing options are cheaper and last longer than expensive designer clothing. “What To Wear?” That’s Easy!: Senior students share that after a night of studying their morning routine is quicker because they don’t have to plan what to wear to school. As a parent of a kindergartner the morning dress routine can be a nightmare, devolving into “You can’t get me” pursuits through the house. A common student uniform makes getting ready and out of the house in the morning a quicker affair for both students and parents. Belonging To A Special Tribe: Our tartan, the Gryphon, the school crest – along with the uniform are central to our school’s identity. Wearing such clothing immediately connects students in a visual sense to our community. Over time, I believe that it helps to reinforce feelings of connection and belonging. We all have an inherent desire to belong to something greater than ourselves – a “tribe” that make us proud through our affiliation. Our school uniform makes this connection explicit.
Follow Mr. Parker’s blog on the Meadowridge Website! Visit www.meadowridge.bc.ca/deputyheadblog
Mea d ow r idge Sch o o l
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DEVELOPMENT UPDATE
Campus Master Plan
You may have noticed a sign on the front of the property at the southwest corner of our school, next to our entrance driveway. Or, maybe you saw an article in the local newspaper or heard Meadowridge School was applying to rezone and subdivide this property. We are applying to rezone this property which we purchased in July 2012 and to amalgamate it with the larger school property. This amalgamation is required if we plan to use this property for any school purpose. On January 9th, our application went to the Committee of the Whole and was approved to go to first reading, which took place at the council meeting on January 14th. We will continue this process and complete the amalgamation as soon as we are able, although we have no immediate plans to construct anything new on this property. As our plans progress, we will continue to update the entire Meadowridge community. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me by e-mail at don.hincks@meadowridge.bc.ca or by telephone at 604.467.4444. - Mr. Don Hincks, CFO & Business Manager
STAND AGAINST BULLYING With the anti-bullying day approaching, it is a good time to revisit how Meadowridge addresses this sensitive and political topic. Through the Heads of ISABC Schools, Dr. Elizabeth Moore, ISABC’s Executive Director, was asked to investigate formal ways our schools could address this topic. Why would ISABC schools address a problem that doesn’t exist in our schools? The answer is simple - because we deeply care about the welfare of our students. Meadowridge, along with many other ISABC schools, pride themselves on inclusivity and a strong sense of community. Our Mission, Interactions between grade levels, sharing of lunch spaces and play spaces, schools’ expectations to treat each other kindly, our cultural diversity, the participation of our parents, and that students feel they can talk to their teachers all help create an environment where our students feel safe and welcome. To carry out the investigation, Dr. Moore asked Mr. Niwa to chair and help form the committee that would undertake this endeavour. The committee is comprised of nine individuals representing independent schools from across the province. These individuals hold a variety of positions within their schools, ranging from Deputy Heads, Principals, Risk Managers, Early Childhood Education educators as well as Directors of Technology. After months of investigation, the committee realized that the EraseBullying initiative, identified by the government, was the best strategy to adopt, as it aligns so closely to the values of our schools; community, communication and culture are central to the strategy. All members of the Educational Leadership Team, comprised of Mr. Parker, Mr. Donaldson, Mr. Banack, Mrs. Bereza, Mrs. Hughes-Grant, and Mr. Niwa have taken the training. In addition to the training, Meadowridge is also listed as a participating school on the EraseBullying website (http://erasebullying.ca). Students are still encouraged to speak directly with any staff member, should they feel bullied. All reports of bullying, whether verbally given to a staff member or submitted online, will be investigated by a team. Should a report be submitted online, through the EraseBullying site, Mr. Parker as well as Mr. Niwa will receive the report and initiate the investigation. More importantly, the website is also a wealth of information for parents and students. It explains different types of bullying and helps people to understand the difference between bullying and mean behaviour. There is also advice on what to do, should a student feel bullied, what to do if a friend is being bullied and what to do if your child is being bullied. Although Meadowridge takes pride in not having a bullying problem, we are committed to helping students academically, socially and emotionally. By participating in this provincial initiative, Meadowridge can benefit from the expertise provided in the training sessions and therefore better support our students by providing more ways in which they can ask for help in ways they feel most comfortable. - Mr. Patrick Niwa, Director of Technology
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KINDERGARTEN LEARNS ABOUT SCIENCE Acid, Base or Neutral? The Kindergarten class had a very special visitor all the way from UBC to teach students about science! Students tested out different liquids including water, water with baking soda, apple juice, soap and soda to test what colours they would turn when cabbage juice was added. Before adding the cabbage juice, students formed their own hypothesis and then tested them out! Based on the reaction, students then determined whether the liquid was an acid, base or neutral!
Page 10 | January 2014
Mea d ow r idge Sch o o l
CLASSROOMS WITHOUT WALLS
Around Meadowridge & CWOW Activities
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1
3
4
6
5
Classrooms Without Walls Activities 1. Grade 6 Book Trailers
4. Grade 11 Science Lab #2
2. Grade 10 Confederation Debates
5. Grade 11 Physics Lab
3. Grade 11 Science Lab #1
6. Grade 8 D&T Launch
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GRADE 3 EXPLORING THE NORTH FOREST Meeting the Creatures of the Forest
Amidst the chilling fog, blankets of snow, torrential rains and dazzling sunshine, the Grade 3 students have experienced the magnificence and grandeur of the North Forest. Winter has brought the forest to life for many of the students as they have had numerous encounters with its inhabitants. At the beginning of November, Jenna Rudolph, from Soaring Eagle Nature School, joined the Grade 3 classes to share with them some hidden secrets of the forest. Jenna is an experienced animal tracker and was able to share this with the students as she pointed out mouse, deer, squirrel and frog tracks in the clay beside the creek. A wonderful experience occurred when Jenna spotted a frog underneath a log beside the creek; the frog was a Northern Red-legged Frog which is endangered in British Columbia. Not a Tuesday in the forest passes without some of the Grade 3 students carefully searching for signs and a possible sighting of the Northern Red-legged Frog. The experience with Jenna greatly heightened each student’s awareness in the forest and the last Tuesday before Christmas holidays, for the first time, we entered a snow-covered forest. Tracks were immediately spotted as the students crossed the threshold into the forest and an investigation to identify the tracks and possibly spot the creatures commenced. During a “fox-walk” through the forest on the first Tuesday after the New Year, I spotted a Western-Red Cedar with a number of orange-breasted Winter terns hopping about in the branches. As I quietly turned to point them out to the students behind me I was too late, the students had already observed the birds and were gazing into the branches with awe-struck wonder (faces forever etched into my memory). A most recent experience occurred while we were gathered in a circle under the “Hemlock” tree and a Black-tailed Deer was spotted on the trail behind some trees. The awesomeness of that experience was expressed by the perfect stillness, gazing eyes and quietness of the 21 students standing together. These experiences in the forest have begun to build intrinsic connections between the students and the forest and more importantly, the place they live. It is through these connections that students will develop a stronger sense of responsibility to live within nature and not merely with nature. - Mr. James Willms, PYP Teacher
For more information about the development and experiences of environmental education at Meadowridge, follow Mr. Willms on Twitter @1985landcruiser or check out his website www.sustainableschooling.weebly.com.
Mea d ow r idge Sch o o l
Page 12 | January 2014
AROUND MEADOWRIDGE Grade 4 Learns About Electricity with Mr. Brunetta Students in Grade 4 were very fortunate to have Mr. Brunetta come in to talk to them about electricity. He explained how electricity works and the possible effects of it if it’s not used properly. The highlight of his visit was learning about static electricity and students had fun creating interesting hairstyles by way of static! The students now have a better appreciation of the source of power that has changed our world. - Ms. Connie Chow and Ms. Audrey Lum, PYP Teachers
Grade 8 Learns About Kinetic Molecular Theory Ms. Hook’s Grade 8 Science class created ‘lava lamps’ to investigate the Kinetic Molecular Theory and how the theory relates to and affects the density of different fluids. Students created the lava lamps with different density fluids and then used the Kinetic Molecular Theory to explain what was happening to the densities of the fluids as their particles gained energy. - Ms. Darcie Hook, MYP Teacher
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Junior Kindergarten and Kindergarten Learns Karate Our Junior Kindergarten and Kindergarten classes began the first of four Karate lessons with Hallie Fraser, a Master Instructor from Karate for Kids. Through a series of martial arts games, techniques and activities, our students have been working on practicing three important rules: 1. Listen 2. Follow Instructions 3. Do your Best! During each Karate session, the students have the opportunity to earn “high fives” for class participation and by demonstrating good manners (answering when their name is called, saying “thank you” and showing a respectful martial arts bow). Once the students have collected ten “high fives”, they are awarded a blue star for their certificates. - Mrs. Michelle Brookshaw, PYP Teacher
Grade 10 Celebrates French Culture with Crepes To celebrate French culture and the upcoming Winter Break, MYP French students had the opportunity to make delicious crepes in class. Crepes are a delicacy which originated in the Britany region of France and are now widely consumed throughout France, Quebec and Belgium! Although the batter for crepes is surprisingly easy to make, the real challenge is in spreading it thinly on the cooking surface and then successfully flipping it over once the first side of the crepe is cooked. In every class, we definitely had some master crepe makers, while others were still working on their technique. Once created, the students enjoyed eating their crepe with a variety of toppings including cheese, whipping cream, lemon, sugar, maple syrup, strawberries, bananas and chocolate sauce. Thank you to all of the families who contributed ingredients to make this experience possible. - Ms. Cathy Holder, MYP Teacher
Mea d ow r idge Sch o o l
Page 14 | January 2014
AROUND MEADOWRIDGE (Continued) Grade 5 Learns about the Nervous System with Dr. Tsuyuki We were fortunate to have Dr. Tsuyuki come visit the Grade 5 class to talk about the human body; in particular, the nervous system which is comprised of the brain, the spine and the nerves. Through Dr. Tsuyuki’s informative and interactive presentation we learned about the three parts to the nervous system: the Central Nervous System, Peripheral Nervous System and the Autonomic Nervous System. We also learned that the nervous system is a highly complicated, very delicate body system and that it is quite hard to repair once damaged as the nerve cells do not regenerate. So remember to always wear a protective helmet the next time you go skiing, play contact sports, ride a bike or skateboard. It was fascinating to learn how messages are sent and received by the brain and how the nervous system has evolved in man to respond to different “Fight/Flight” or “Rest/Digest” stimuli. Did you know that your nervous system controls all of your bodily functions and this often happens without us knowing? Did you also know that our brain sifts through “a million thoughts” and then determines what thoughts really matter to us so we can act upon them? Did you know that we actually have something called ‘grey matter’ in our brain that helps with sensory perceptions, memory, decision making, speech, and emotion… to name a few. We would to thank Dr. Tsuyuki for taking the time to visit our classroom, for sharing his sound knowledge and for patiently answering all our questions. - Mr. Avio Diniz, PYP Teacher
Grade 6 Builds (and Races!) Motorized Vehicles Students in Grade 6 put their knowledge to the test for a very exciting Classrooms without Walls event – building their own battery operated vehicles! In order to build the vehicles, students were provided with simple materials including bell wire, motors, batteries, clothespins, film canisters, aluminum foil plates, coffee stirrers and more. After finishing their vehicles, students battled it out in a race to the finish across the MYP atrium! - Ms. Cindy Hops, MYP Teacher
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PYP Celebrates the Holidays at the Winter Showcase A festive feel was in the air as the Meadowridge PYP students presented their Winter Showcase on December 4th. Voices sang out and instruments rang true as audiences were treated to an evening of entertaining and skillfully crafted performances. Thanks to Ms. Sugden, Ms. Brookshaw and Ms. Gager for taking the time to show parents what PYP students have been learning in French and Gym classes. Thanks also to Ms. Dobie, the Grade Four and Five Tech Crew, Grade Five teachers and students, Mr. Clarke, Mr. Noble, Ms. Bonnarens and the Maintenance staff for assisting with the event. - Ms. Durno, PYP Music Teacher
MYP Performs Musical Selections at the Winter Concert Students in Grades 9 and 10 Music performed at their Winter Concert in early December. In the typical “rite of passage�, students in Grade 9 were asked to perform in small groups, whereas students in Grade 10 were asked to perform solo selections. Students also played a song as a part of a rock band. Lastly, students performed some traditional choral music as a demonstration of their well-rounded musical abilities. I look forward to seeing students in Grades 6 through 8 perform in their Spring Concert near the end of the year! - Mr. David Noble, MYP Teacher
Mea d ow r idge Sch o o l
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STUDENT ACHIEVEMENTS Jessica J. Selected for Vimy Pilgrimage Award Just before we all left for Winter Break, Grade 11 student Jessica J. received some very exciting news: she had been selected as a 2014 winner of the Vimy Pilgrimage Award. This honour, given to only 20 students across the country, rewards students for their continued community service and positive contributions through leadership. Jessica will be heading off to France this April for a fully-funded, week-long educational programme. She will participate in daily field trips to significant sites and memorials recognizing Canada’s tremendous effort in the First World War. This will be a fantastic opportunity for Jessica to ‘experience’ the events she has been studying; it is a particularly moving time as 2014 is the 100th anniversary of the start of the war. This is a tremendous opportunity for Jessica, and it is truly well deserved. She is currently serving as a member of both the Senior Gryphon Council and the Global Citizenship Committee, and she is organizing her second annual conference to combat bullying. Hopefully she will come back from this trip with great memories and lots of pictures! Congratulations Jessica! - Mrs. Jennifer Higginson, MYP Teacher
Creative Writing Contest Winners The judges of the Creative Writing Contest had many unique short stories and poems to choose from. Written by our very own students, the original works were as varied as they were great. The winners of the contest were announced at the Holiday Season Assembly by a very special guest judge – Mrs. Graetz!
Congratulations to all of the contest winners! From Grade 6: Jeffrey L., Denise Z., Jageur M., and Erin W. From Grade 7: Inara K. (who was awarded with a special mention for risking a novel point of view), Tori F., Nicole E., and Alex N. From Grade 8: Bruno H., Jennifer X., Holly L., Tim L., Suhaana S., and Darius B. (who was awarded with special mention for writing a war poem). From Grade 9: Donya A., Ujjwal N. and Rose S. From Grade 10: Hannah W., Jasmine C., Johnny Z., and Seerit H. From Grade 11: Hannah J. and Kalvin K. From Grade 12: Emma G. and Gary E.
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Canadian Intermediate Mathematics Contest The Canadian Intermediate Mathematics Contest is run by the University of Waterloo. It is designed to be challenging and is written by students up to Grade 10. Students who finish in the top 25% of entrants from across the country are awarded a Certificate of Distinction. This year we had five students who reached the distinction level: Chloe Y. (Grade 10), Nikhil V. (Grade 9), Joanna P. (Grade 10), Mark C. (Grade 10), and Amanda B. (Grade 10). Chloe Y. was the school champion at this level for 2013, while Nikhil V. was the top student in Grade 9. Congratulations to all students who took up the challenge to participate in the contest! - Mr. Kevin Wells, DP Teacher
Canadian Intermediate Mathematics Par ticipants Chloe Y. Nikhil V. Joanna P. Mark C. Amanda B. Victor C. Jasmine C. Frank S. Seerit H. Ryan Z.. Jason B. Devyani M. Eric H.
Chloe Y. School Champion
Canadian Senior Mathematics Contest Senior students competed in the Canadian Senior Mathematics Contest, open to students up to Grade 12. The school champion for 2013 at this level was Nicole D. (Grade 12) and the top Grade 11 student was Jennifer A. Douglas Z. (Grade 11) was unfortunate to miss the cut by a single point, a great achievement for a Grade 11 student. All students scored well in this contest, even if they didn’t reach the ‘distinction level’. - Mr. Kevin Wells, DP Teacher
Canadian Senior Mathematics Par ticipants Nicole D. Jennifer A. Emily H. Douglas Z. Thomas L. Jack Z. Evelyn C. Victoria H. Nicholas H. Benjamin C.
Nicole D. Senior School Champion
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Mea d ow r idge Sch o o l
STUDENT ACHIEVEMENTS
(Continued)
Ujjwal N. Earns his Black Belt in Tae Kwon Do Ujjwal N. (Grade 9) recently earned his Black Belt in Tae Kwon Do! Training since Grade 6, Ujjwal describes his journey towards the Black Belt as having many ups and downs; or, as he says “it’s like every journey; Hard, but the result is worth it in the end.” Ujjwal’s Black Belt test consisted of three ‘midterms’ and, having to score a seven in order to level up, Ujjwal felt immense pressure going into the third and final test having scored a six on both previous tests. The final midterm was Board-Breaking and Ujjwal passed by breaking the board with a kick on his very last chance. “Words can’t describe the feeling of pure satisfaction I felt when I broke that board,” Ujjwal explains. Having now earned his Black Belt, Ujjwal is already looking onward. With up to ten Degrees to earn in Tae Kwon Do, Ujjwal hopes to earn his second and third Degree and continue to improve for Tae Kwon Do. Congratulations and good luck Ujjwal!
Students Pass their DELF Exams This month, we learned that all of our students who took the DELF Exam passed. Students who pass the DELF exams are allowed entrance into French speaking universities. We are proud to announce that this is the third year that all students who took their B1 and B2 French Diploma Exams earned their diploma. Congratulations to all students who passed!
B1 DELF
b2 DELF
Eleanor M. (Grade 10)
Victoria H. (Grade 12)
Clea C. (Grade 8)
Kelsey P. (Grade 12)
Sydnie S. (Grade 11)
Geneva W. (Grade 12)
Jessica B. (Grade 10)
Emma G. (Grade 12)
Elina B. (Grade 11) Alia V. (Grade 11)
Jessica J. & Jasmine T. Attend Mini Med School Last month we had the privilege of being chosen to represent Meadowridge School at the annual Mini Med School located at BC Children’s Hospital. We learnt so much and we were able to meet incredible people who are experts in their field. Speakers from all over the world spoke about this year’s topic of “Diabetes”. This experience gave us great insight into what researchers do and how vital their role is in the field of medicine. Thank you Meadowridge for allowing us to have this amazing opportunity! - Jessica J. (Grade 11) and Jasmine T. (Grade 11)
CELEBRATION OF CULTURE REFLECTIONS Noah W. (Grade 5) Heritage Day Reflection
On Heritage Day we share our culture from things like food, language, games and artifacts. In the morning Mr. Diniz read us a story about two slaves who made a quilt that each picture is part of a code or map to get to freedom. Then we had to figure out which picture was each word. I felt like a slave running away using the quilt as my guide. Madame Sugden showed us a brochure someone made pretending they were advertising for women to come to New France. I learned that they wanted to increase the population so they tried to send young girls to New France. I learned quite a few new languages from my friends which were Farsi, (Iranian language), Ukrainian, Russian, Polish, Croatian, Indonesian, Malaysian, and German. This may help if I travel to any of these countries or if there is someone new because I’d be able to talk a little bit with them. We were able to sample many different foods like perogies, samosas and dumplings. I was able to try many different foods from many different cultures. We shared artifacts which taught me more about other cultures. Finally in PE we tried a couple new games. I enjoyed Heritage Day and I think I became more Open-Minded to other cultures.
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CELEBRATION OF CULTURE REFLECTIONS (Continued)
Odelle S. (Grade 5) Heritage Day Reflection Heritage Day was really exciting! Students dressed in traditional outfits from all over the world, brought food from their culture, brought in neat artifacts, and shared music and games. I loved this because I could get a feel of different country’s clothes, food, ideas, games, items, language, and designs. I learned why certain artifacts, foods, clothing, etc. are very important to some cultures. I also learned some history and facts about different countries and what they like to do. My country is Iran. I loved the food sharing. Everyone was a Risk-taker by trying foods they never ate before. We had sweet foods, sour foods, and savory foods. Also, there were hard foods, soft foods, and many more traditional types of food! I loved the originality in all the dishes. Each was unique and a lot of them are not seen often. I brought in lentil rice. All the meals were delicious! The artifacts the grade shared were also quite interesting. We brought in things from family members or our countries. I enjoyed listening and learning about what makes them important and why they’re traditional. My artifacts were a mini-version of an Iranian tea boiler and a small rectangle wallet made of rug fabric. The artifact presenting was so fun! The clothing was another thing I enjoyed. I saw people dressed in Indian clothing with many lovely designs, Chinese dresses with cherry blossoms and bright colors, old-fashioned European clothing, and so much more. I liked seeing the clothing because it gives me an idea of how people dress in different countries. People represented their countries so well with their clothing. Some of the outfits were passed down from parents, grandparents, and maybe even further. I wore a traditional costume that was passed down. Everyone’s outfits were marvelous. There are so many things I loved about Heritage Day. I also got an idea of some country’s music/national anthems. I now know where my classmates are from. We had so much fun and enjoyed everything that was brought in. I had such a wonderful time and loved trying new foods, seeing traditional outfits, listening to another country’s music, and so much more. I had so much fun with my classmates and teachers.
Page 20 | January 2014
Mea d ow r idge Sch o o l
LIBRARY UPDATE
Exciting Events in your Meadowridge Library! This month, the Meadowridge Library was pleased to host two guests as part of our Human Library. We welcomed Ms. Lausanne Ham and Mr. Fin Donnelly. Both PYP and MYP students had a chance to “sign out” our guests, just like a regular book, and learned about their intriguing life experiences. Ms. Lausanne Ham shared her experiences of being an Iraqi refugee during Desert Storm and the journey that led her to Canada. Mr. Fin Donnelly, an athlete, environmentalist and member of parliament, swam the Fraser River, twice, in hopes to raise awareness to protect and restore the river. After meeting each guest, both students and staff realized how one person can really make a positive difference in the world. - Mrs. Christal Storgaard and Mrs. Heather Nicholson, Teacher-Librarians
With Thanks for the Donation of New Books!
Chloe W.
Bryson and Holly H.
The Fantastic Flying Books of Mr. Morris Lessmore
Bumbles…finds her way home!
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OSEF EXCHANGE This September, we welcomed three new students to Meadowridge as part of the OSEF (Organisme de Séjours Educatifs Français) Exchange; Alix, Juliette and Malo visited Meadowridge from France and each stayed with the families of three of our students to experience life in Canada and an education at Meadowridge. Likewise, our very own students will soon be completing the second half of the exchange by visiting their partner’s families in France! After an exciting three month visit and after a tearful goodbye, our visitors returned home to France to rejoin their families and to await their Canadian counterparts. Soon after, we reached out to Alix to learn about her experiences and her thoughts on Meadowridge and Maple Ridge. Alix writes to us and announces “First, I want to say thank you once again to Meadowridge, an unforgettable school, and all the people that I met there. I want to come back!” Alix first decided to take part in the OSEF Exchange because she wanted to improve her English, meet new people and make new friends, and to discover life in Canada. When she first arrived at Meadowridge, it was certain that there would be some differences from her school in France. When asked to recall her initial reaction to Meadowridge, Alix announces, “The teachers were so kind and friendly!” and the people – “they were so nice to me and funny. It was a paradise for me.” As for Maple Ridge itself, Alix notes the landscape as the biggest difference from France “The landscape in Canada is beautiful! The trees are red, orange and yellow.” When asked her favourite part about Meadowridge, Alix writes “I’d like to say everything, but maybe I should be more specific…” she continues, “Well… I liked the WOW Week Camp because it’s where I met and made many of my Canadian friends; Spirit day was really fun (my hair was red!); and Terry Fox (even if it was in the rain!); and after all, every normal day.” With her exchange partner, Jessica B. (Grade 10), headed to France to complete the exchange we wanted to know what she was most excited for Jessica to experience. Alix responds that she is most excited for her to meet her friends and family and for London during the February holidays. Alix also notes, “The school will be very different for her”. We wish Jessica and all of the OSEF Exchange students happy travels!
Alix in Science Class
Mea d ow r idge Sch o o l
Page 22 | January 2014
GRADE 1 TACKLING THE BOULDERING WALL
Learning to Climb on the Bouldering Wall
This month the Grade 1 classes have had the opportunity to climb on the bouldering wall during their PE classes. They are working on improving their strength, balance, flexibility and confidence - all while having fun! Working as a team, they cheer for one another and are being caring and supportive. It is wonderful to watch them being risk-takers and trying new things. - Ms. Megan Gager, Teacher
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PARENT GUILD UPDATE Upcoming Parent Guild Events
Meadowridge Parent Guild Gryphon’s Emporium is Having a Sale!
Are you noticing uniform sleeves and pants are getting a little short? Take advantage of the
Gryphon's Emporium two day sale! Save an additional 20% off of our already discounted prices - up to 60% off of traditional retail pricing. Come over to the House and pick up some uniforms at an amazing price!
The Parent Guild is excited toSale once Hours again offer Gryphon’s Emporium
Meadowridge friends and families locally-grown hanging baskets and flats of flowers. Always popular (and considerably more affordable than in retail The Gryphon's Emporium will be open on Wednesday, February 5th from 3:00pm to 4:00pm outlets), they make the perfect Mother’s Day gift. Remember to order one for yourself, as well, to and on Thursday, February 6th from 9:00am to 11:00am and from 2:30pm to 4:30pm (during enjoy all summer long. Parent/Teacher Interviews).
Value-Priced Hanging Baskets
12” Fuchsia Basket (assorted colors for shade)
$26
10” Mixed Basket (Zonal geranium and Proven Winners)
$21
12” Mixed Basket (Zonal geranium and Proven Winners) $26 Spring Flower Baskets in Time for Mother’s
Day
14” Moss Mixed Basket (assorted Proven Winners) $68 We will be selling spring flower baskets once again this year, just in time for Mother’s Day. 16” Moss Mixed Basket (assorted Proven Winners) $77* *Our best value – similar baskets sell for over $130 in stores All moss baskets are made with three layers of planting versus a single top planting
Order: Health and Safety Course to Continue thisTo Spring! IfNew you’reThis interested look no further! The Year in taking Babysitting, First Aid, or Food Safe training, 1. Complete the form including your Parent Guild’s Health and Safety courses will be returning this Spring. We will update the Flats of Annual Flowers (48 plants per flat) at $15 per flat email address for order confirmation. community when dates for the courses are booked! ALYSSUM (purple, white, mix) 2. Select a payment option: BEGONIA (pink, red, rose, white, mix) DUSTY MILLER (silver dust foliage plant) Cash or Cheque is preferred. Drop off IMPATIENS (pink, purple, red, salmon, white, mix) completed form and payment at school LOBELIA (blue, rose, white, mix) reception. MARIGOLD (bicolor, orange, yellow, mix) Credit card. Drop off completed form at PANSY (mix) school reception or email completed PETUNIA (burgundy, pink, red, white, mix) form to the address below. We will SALVIA (blue, red) contact you for your credit card details.
For queries and to email forms: flower.baskets@meadowridge.bc.ca
Mea d ow r idge Sch o o l
HAPPY NEW YEAR
2014 Year of the Horse