27 April 2020
http://www.peponischool.org
The Weekly Peponi School
From the Head Girl
THE BEETHOVEN CHALLENGE This year marks the 250th anniversary of Ludwig van Beethoven’s birth.
Trying to adjust from learning in a classroom surrounded by friends, to sitting alone staring at a screen in my bedroom was quite challenging. Laughing with my friends in Maths whilst Mr Njoroge shouts at us yet again as we beg for an early break (so we can beat the rush for samosas on a Monday), and once we are finally released at the end of the lesson sprinting to the break area trying to get the last samosa, is an environment which cannot be recreated through a virtual classroom. But it is comforting to see that even through a screen we all still find ourselves laughing, bonding, and learning at the same time with the occasional ‘early lunch’ thrown into the discussion.
ZOOM SECURITY
After a week and a half of virtual classes, there is no doubt that I still need more time to get used to this new setting, however my teachers have made this transition easier. Our teachers are more considerate when it comes to redoing online task and giving us as many opportunities possible to better our grades which I am sure is appreciated by all the pupils.
Some of you are aware that Zoom has been hacked several times this year.
It is nice to know that our teachers do miss us, even though they would never admit to this on a normal day!
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Maria Blunsum
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This is due to the explosion in traffic, making Zoom an attractive target for hackers.
27 April 2020
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Well-being Dear Pupils, As much as this is a new and strange time for all of us, and having to adjust to the virtual learning, doing things a lot differently than we are used to and having to spend most of your time at home, I have put together some information and resources to help guide you through positive well-being and mental health, when I believe, we need it most. Here are five strategies to build resilience, and have reassuring conversations: 1. Stay Positive: Remember to keep calm. Changes to the
environment and routines can create unease. Having calm, panic-free discussions can ease emotions around these changes. Check in on how you are feeling and acknowledge and address your worries rather than ignore them. Check out these amazing podcasts on Peace Out. https://bedtime.fm/peaceout
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2. Stick to the facts: It is important to have thoughtful conversations regarding the corona virus to distil anxiety, worry or fear. Look at the facts. Its good to know that Kenya and the world at large are doing everything they can and you are up to date on current information. If you have additional questions you can look to find the answers. Check-in on what you and your family are thinking and so as to address your worries. Discuss that not everything we hear or see is real. It can also be comforting to be reminded that doctors around the world are looking for ways to address the corona virus and highlight positive news as well . Check out the Good News Network by John Krasinski (from The Office). https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VQLi2GYVULc 3. Consider Media Consumption: When looking online, consider the source and fact-check to prevent fake news, and think before you share. Be mindful of how much media you are checking and minimise how often you are reading stories. Try to keep a healthy balance (both online and offline) in your daily routines and lifestyle. Check out brain pop for more factual information and lots more. https://www.brainpop.com/health/diseasesinjuriesandconditions/coronavirus/ 4. Eliminate stigma It is important to be aware of how the corona virus is explained to each other to avoid any person/group being blamed. Also to communicate that if someone has a fever or cough does not mean this person has the corona virus. Watch some documentaries on corona virus, there are plenty on Youtube. I have already spoken to some of you and will be reaching out to as many of you as I can, please also feel free to contact me for a chat, to book some sessions or if you would like any further support during this time. I am also speaking to our seniors about their university applications, career options and lots more. my email address is schoolcounsellor@peponischool.org and my mobile number/WhatsApp. +254715769439
Ms. Vaporidis School Counsellor
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27 April 2020
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The Beethoven Challenge This year marks the 250th anniversary of Ludwig van Beethoven’s birth. Along with many other musicians and groups around the world, we are finding our own way to recognise this! All of our higher-level pianists have been asked to learn a movement from any of Beethoven’s 32 piano sonatas and send in a recording by the end of May. In addition, Mr Laight, our Director of Music, will be posting videos during this term of various movements from the piano sonatas. These videos will be uploaded onto the new Peponi School Youtube channel. This week, we will start with the 1st movement from Beethoven’s Sonata No. 1 in F minor. If any pupils, parents or teachers feel like joining in the Beethoven Challenge, by learning a piece by Beethoven on any instrument, then please send in your recordings to Mr Laight via Firefly or by email. jlaight@peponischool.org Good luck!
Mr. Laight - Director of Music
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27 April 2020
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Sleep tips for Pupils More often than not teens do not get enough sleep, I believe it’s worse now during this lock-down due to the pandemic. I guess most of the time is spent in the bedroom either watching a movie or talking to friends, which would be keeping you awake. What would prevent a teen from getting enough Sleep? Busy social life e.g. after your virtual sessions all day some teens will call up on their friends for unlimited talk time ,others will catch up on a movie series they paused, homework which is and has a deadline to be submitted, sports and work out may go for the longest time possible hence keeping you awake. Biological shift in the body internal clock especially after puberty –sleeping patterns are likely to change. Either by gaining a few hours of sleep or losing a few more. Sleep deprivation dangers. Mood e.g. irritability, frustration, maybe upset towards their teachers, parents, siblings, friends or their workers. Behaviour changes – some would end up engaging in risky habits such as drinking, smoking and even drugs as desperation kicks in-talk to someone always. Academic performance -teens who have prolonged sleep deprivation may perform poorly in class, fall asleep during lesson time and may miss out on some lessons. Thinking - teens memory and creativity, reaction time and decisions may all become impaired. What to do - Try this! Make sure your sleeping environment is comfortable, clean and tidy. Avoid taking any electronics to your bedroom. Keep a regular sleep pattern it works better. Eat regular healthy meals. Exercise daily. Avoid caffeine, smoking, sleeping pills. Take a daily shower. “SLEEP WELL” From the Nurses’ desk
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Library Update Dear Pupils, We at Peponi School Library trust that you are all keeping well and safe. Covid -19’s impact across the world has been greatly felt as services and daily activities have all been disrupted. However, this hasn’t dampened our mandate as a Library to support teaching and learning. As a result, we are organising a platform where pupils and teachers can access digital library collections therefore expanding reading and learning choices. This platform has got both e-books and audio books and can be accessed 24/7 anywhere, any time. We will keep you updated on this. For more information questions, and support email me at: hkanyiri@peponischool.org or lib@peponischool.org
Mrs. Kanyiri - School Librarian
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Escapades in the British Countryside The current global pandemic has led to a change in every person’s circumstances on the planet. For many this has meant adapting to a wholly new life, with new parameters, laws and expectations. In equal measure ‘lock-down life’ has afforded many us some wonderful opportunities to spend more time with loved ones, and it has forced us to reflect on what matters most to us all. In my case it has led me back to a place I lived years ago, set in the serene English countryside. I am currently based in Devon, England during this lock-down, and I have made a point of exploring the majesty of the English countryside on my bicycle in my spare time. The South-West of England has a great deal of natural beauty and historic sites; in this article I want to introduce you to one such site right behind my home. The Shute Beacon is one of two remaining beacon houses left in Devon. It dates back to the sixteenth-century and was used in order to convey messages of attack or threat by foreign forces, by the lighting of a fire. They were always sited in prominent positions, usually as part of a group, chain or line which together made up a comprehensive early warning system covering most of the country. With its clear line of view down to the sea (see picture), this beacon was perfectly placed and was lit during the arrival of the Spanish Armada in 1588! It was a tough life for the Beacon Keeper, it was recorded in a local Parish Warden’s account of 1563 that he:
“should watch tenaciously from March to October, he should not even be allowed a dog for company, and should be sheltered by a hut without seats or a place of ease, lest he should fall asleep”.
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This paints a fascinating (if uncomfortable!) account of life five hundred years ago in my local area. This is what I have learnt from my lock-down experience. Have you found out anything interesting about your locality? If so, please share with us here at Peponi and we will gladly in include it in our next newsletter! Mr. Strain Religious Studies, History and IPQ Coordinator
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Zoom Security Dear All, Some of you are aware that Zoom has been hacked several times this year. This is due to the explosion in traffic, making Zoom an attractive target for hackers. Schools in Singapore and India have reported strangers coming to a meeting and broadcasting unwanted content leading to several bans of Zoom usage around the world. Zoom has responded to these concerns by releasing several updates to their software. They have also recommended the following steps to avoid similar events: Ensure that all your meetings have a password set Enable the waiting room feature. This allows you to admit pupils as they are joining your session manually. Always end meetings at the end of your session. I insist that we all utilise these features anytime we are scheduling a meeting.
Mr. Wakori - IT Manager
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27 April 2020
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Earth Day activities that are good for you and the planet during the pandemic
This year's Earth Day -- the 50th anniversary of the birth of the modern environmental movement -- was a quiet one. For humans, at least, the planet was essentially closed on Wednesday, April 22, due to a worldwide pandemic. The observance was created in the US by late former Democratic Wisconsin Senator Gaylord Nelson to increase public awareness of environmental issues. By 1990, Earth Day had gone global, mobilising millions of people in more than 140 countries to take up environmental issues and turn them into a worldwide movement. Because of the coronavirus pandemic, this year's celebrations were limited to our immediate and virtual surroundings. Even though we can't celebrate our planet with community tree plantings, clean-ups and national park visits this year, there are outdoor activities to enjoy within the vicinity of your home that are good for the planet and good for your health. Walk, run or hike the Earth Biking for strength and a good mood Stay in touch with the Earth by gardening Enjoy the meditative qualities of nature Virtual Earth Day activities
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Recipes from Chef Silvester Chicken with Basil & Chilli This quick and easy chicken dish from Thailand owes its spicy flavor to fresh chillies and its pungency to Thai basil, which has a lovely aroma with hints of liquorice.
Serves 4-6 45ml/3 tbsp vegetable oil 4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced 2-4 fresh red chillies, seeded and finely chopped 450g/1lb skinless, cut into bitesize pieces 45ml/3 tbsp Thai fish sauce 10ml/2 tsp dark soy sauce 5ml/1 tsp granulated (white) sugar 10-12 fresh Thai basil leaves 2 fresh red chillies, seeded and finely chopped, and about 20 deep fried Thai basil leaves, to garnish
Preparation: 7-8 minutes; Cooking 9-11 minutes Heat the oil in a wok or large, heavy frying pan. Add the garlic and chillies and stir-fry over a medium heat for 1-2 minutes until the garlic is golden. Take care not to let the garlic burn, otherwise it will taste bitter. Add the pieces of chicken to the work or pan, in batches if necessary and stir-fry until the chicken changes colour. Stir in the fish sauce, soy sauce and sugar. Stir-fry the mixture for 3-4 minutes, until the chicken is cooked and golden brown. Stir in the fresh Thai basil leaves, spoon the mixture on to a warm platter, or into individual dishes. Garnish with the chopped chillies and deep-fried Thai basil and serve.
Cook’s Tips To deep-fry Thai basil leaves, first make sure that the leaves are completely dry. Heat vegetable or groundnut (peanut) oil in a wok or deep fryer to 1900C13750F. Add the leaves and deep-fry them briefly until they are crisp and translucent – this will take only about 30-40 seconds. Lift out the leaves using a slotted spoon or wire basket and leave them to drain on kitchen paper before using.
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Spaghetti Carbonara This Italian Classic, flavoured with pancetta and a garlic-and-egg sauce that cooks around the hot spaghetti, is popular worlwide. It makes a great last-minute supper.
Serves 4 30ml/2 tbsp olive oil 1 small onion, finely chopped 1 large garlic clove, crushed 8 slices pancetta or rindless smoked streaky (fatty) bacon, cut into 1 cm/1/2in pieces 350g/12oz dried spaghetti 4 eggs 90-120ml/6-8 tbsp crème fraiche 60ml/4 tbsp freshly grated parmesan cheese, plus extra to serve Salt and ground black pepper
Preparation: 3 minutes; Cooking: 15-17 minutes Heat the oil in a large pan, add the onion and garlic and fry gently for about 5 minutes until softened. Add the pancetta or bacon to the pan. Cook for 10 minutes, stirring often. Meanwhile, cook the spaghetti in a large pan of lightly salted boiling water for 10 – 12 minutes. Put the eggs, crème fraiche and grated parmesan in a bowl, stir in plenty of black pepper, then beat together well Drain the pasta thoroughly, tip it into the pan with the pancetta or bacon and toss well to mix. Turn off the heat under the pan, then immediately add the egg mixture and toss thoroughly so that it cooks lightly and coats the pasta. Season to taste, then divide the pasta among four warmed bowls and sprinkle with ground black pepper. Serve immediately, with extra grated Parmesan handed around separately in a bowl
Variations Instead of beating the eggs with crème fraiche, use double (heavy) cream or sugar cream, if you prefer
Chef Silvester
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Quotes of the day
“ With the new day comes new strength and new thoughts. ” Eleanor Roosevelt.
“ And this, our life, exempt from public haunt, finds tongues in trees, books in the running brooks, sermons in stones, and good in everything. William Shakespeare. ” Eleanor Roosevelt.
“ The sun himself is weak when he first rises, and gathers strength and courage as the day gets on. ” Charles Dickens
“ Be brave enough to live life creatively. The creative place where no one else has ever been. ” by the American Actor known for his role in Mash Alan Alda
My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humor, and some style.
Maya Angelou
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Peponi School PO Box 236, Ruiru 00232 +(254) 020 354 6456 +(254) 0733 615 139; +(254) 0722 287 248