SummeRISe - Issue 109

89 Thursday, Thursday 16 21 June May 2016 2015 Issue 109 GENERAL GENERAL

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GENERAL RIS — 2015-2016

PARIS SCHOOL CLINIC

DATE

EVENTS

Thursday, 02 June

Nursery Certificate Ceremony

Thursday, 16 June

Curriculum Information Session (transition Year 6—Year 7)

Tuesday, 21 June

End of Year Reports - Nursery to Year 10

Thursday, 23 June

Students last day - (Full day) August

Thursday, 25 August

New Students Orientation (Whole )

Sunday, 28 August

All students return September

Sunday, 11 September—Tuesday, 13 September

Arafat Day & Eid Al Adha

Thursday, 15 September

Nursery Curriculum Information Session

Sunday, 18 September—Thursday, 22 September Curriculum Information Session

October Sunday, 02 October

Hiiji New Year

Sunday, 16 October

Professional Development Day November

Sunday, 06 November

Parent Student Conference

Thursday, 17 November

School Holiday

Sunday, 20 Noember

Professional Development Day

Message from the Principal Promoting a culture of innovation Part 2 Dear Parents, Following on from the last edition of SummaRISe, I would like to focus on the importance of innovation and how we promote the same at RIS. Innovation is a key feature of the National Innovation Strategy which sets the context for innovation and innovative leadership as the primary tools for delivering a programme of economic development and progress, stimulating creativity, and growing a distinct set of skills and capabilities across the nation in order to achieve the UAE Vision 2012.

HH Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, aptly commented, “More than any other time, we need to boos innovation among young people, build nurturing environments in our society, and encourage our schools and universities to equip our youth with skills in research and discovery methodologies”.

Please find below an edited article that discusses how we can go about empowering students to use their voice o n o r d e r t o d e v e l o p c reativity in Today’s schools are educating students for a yet-to-be-imagined future; for yet-to-be-developed jobs.

Despite this, the existing K-12 education system in the US is grounded on compliance and standards.

Now, more than ever, it must be driven by creativity and innovation. We must create an environment that engages the minds of students while honouring their voices. Students report that the longer they are in school, the more their creativity diminishes. According to the My Voice National Student Report 2014 published by the Quaglia Institute for Student Aspirations, 80% of sixth graders (10- to 11-year-olds) agreed with the statement “At school I am encouraged to be creative”. Only 60% of 12th graders (17- to 18-year-olds) agreed. In elementary school, students are encouraged to wonder, explore and have fun. They do not fear failure. However, as students progress through middle school and enter high school, the encouragement for divergent thinking and creative assessments dwindles, or even disappears entirely.

It seems that if students can check off the rubric boxes, then they are deemed successful, regardless of originality or the potential impact of their ideas. Schools are trying to standardise creativity and stifle students’ voices, which is quite ironic since creativity is the antithesis of standards. Granted, standards do not inherently require all teachers to teach the same way. However, an unintended consequence of standards is too many teachers lecture and move through required information in order to cover everything that might be in an examination.

Teachers are told what to teach, when to teach, and often how to teach. There are scarce opportunities for in-depth, relevant and creative learning and assessment. More often than not, students demonstrate their understanding of content by taking the same multiple-choice examination as thousands of students across a region in order to prove the standard has been learned.

If teachers had the flexibility to encourage creativity, one group of students might understand world history through the lens of literature and writing. The teaching strategy might include teaching students to write and present original scripts representing a historical era. Another class might understand world history through the lens of geography. These students could demonstrate their understanding of historical events by developing maps representative of migration and immigration patterns.

Education should take a cue from the business sector by supporting and rewarding new ideas and innovation. It is common practice in some successful businesses to have a weekly ‘genius hour’ where employees are encouraged to be creative and explore emerging ideas. This type of encouragement in schools would allow students to realise that learning and discovery are not finite and are not restricted by examination questions. After all, the ultimate purpose of learning is not to succeed at examinations, but to succeed in life.

Students have too few opportunities on assessments to express original responses or emerging ideas.

Even a seemingly creative assignment such as building a DNA model can limit creativity. Students can search online for a perfect DNA model, replicate it and then receive the highest mark for the assignment. Likewise, students can read abbreviated notes about a book, design a diorama and then, having never actually read the book or applied their learning in a creative manner, pass the assessment related to the reading. While both of these assignments may help students understand a concept, neither gives students an opportunity to develop original ideas or to express their voice. Is it that students are not ready or willing to think creatively? Are they not prepared to express their ideas and values? Or, is it that the educational establishment is not ready to allow students to be creative and have a voice?

Students are not going to find creative solutions to perplexing problems when they have little interest and no voice. Passion releases creativity. Confidence amplifies voice. To prepare them for their future, students’ thoughts, ideas, interests and questions must drive learning now. To support creative thinking, students must have opportunities to immerse themselves in problems and challenges that spark their interests, engage their minds, and direct their intellectual energy toward the benefit of others. We need to understand that student voice and creativity are inextricably connected. A curious student asks ‘why?’ while a creative student with voice asks ‘why not?’ Students must be encouraged and provided opportunities to continuously ask both. Why is there so much concern around global warming? Why does it matter if I learn about genetics? Why do I have to understand world history? Why do free- trade agreements matter? These types of questions bolster a student’s innate desire to challenge current thinking. With the proper conditions in place, the questions turn into innovative thinking and action.

Why not solve global warming by providing free solar panels? Why not fund stem cell research over pharmaceutical research? This type of inquiry encourages students to develop ideas beyond the scope of textbooks, standardised examinations, or even the potential biases of the teacher. By simply using the Socratic teaching method – which stimulates critical thinking students are challenged to ask as well as answer questions, communicate their ideas and consider the opinions of others.

Not all learners experience the necessary conditions for creativity to flourish. According to the 2014 My Voice National Student Report, only 63% of high school students agreed with the statement “I feel comfortable asking questions in class”. The ability to wonder and challenge the status quo starts with questioning.

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Together, teachers and students must build classroom cultures where learning begins with questions, and never ends. In addition, both relevance and meaning are important for learners of all ages.

To spark curiosity, students first need to feel an issue or problem is pertinent to them. In response to the statement “My classes he understand what is happening in my everyday life” only 35% of 12th graders agreed. Students should graduate feeling confident that what they have dedicated their school days to is applicable to their future.

Although creativity emerges uniquely in each student, students embody creativity when they: use their voice for positive change; know how to express themselves; do not fear failure or success; are driven internally to succeed; connect diverse content areas; respect other people’s opinions; challenge the status quo; demonstrate understanding through application; welcome the challenge of complex problems; and see themselves as part of a global community.

Research shows that when students have a voice, they are seven times more likely to be motivated to learn. However, supporting and developing the voice of students cannot be legislated or mandated through policy. Rather this needs to be fostered as a priority in the classroom, every day, in every grade. Teachers must intentionally create time and opportunity for student voice to drive creativity, nurturing a genuine partnership with students where their voice is an integral part of the teaching and learning process. Teachers also need to develop assessments that reward unique ideas and originality, encourage students to challenge the way things are typically done and guide them to collaborate with other students around the globe. Students’ passions and interests should drive learning and inquiry, with teachers connecting and applying learning to students’ everyday lives, and presenting complex, real-world problems to consider and solve. Above all, teaching should enable students to build their skills for creativity; this means measuring progress by how well students apply their knowledge to solve problems and challenges, and ensuring that creativity and innovation take precedence over pacing guides and schedules.

Students are inherently creative, and they do want to have a voice. The only thing standing in the way of fostering this voice and creativity is current practices. We need to start recognising that students are full of potential and to accept the fact that they have something to teach us. When we establish an environment in which the unknown is embraced and the voice of students is celebrated, we will finally have an environment where the creativity of students will flourish, and a world of creativity and possibilities will emerge.

For more information about the Quaglia Institute for Student Aspirations, visit www.quagliainstitute.org Reprinted from an article by Russell Quaglia and Kristine Fox, RSA Journal Issue 1 2016 I take the opportunity to thank all parents for their support throughout the year to enrich the school experience for all our students. I wish all families a wonderful, relaxing and safe summer, and to all Muslims families ‘a blessed month of Ramadan’ and a joyful Eid-ul-Fitr.

I look forward to welcoming the Raffles family in August 2016.

Michael William Clack Principal

Gifted and Talented It is time to say ‘Good Bye’ to the academic year 2015-2016. I look back with pride and some nostalgia at the year gone by and look ahead with optimism and excitement to the new academic year 2016-2017.

Every school year ends in reminiscence and celebrations of the jewels in student achievements and improvements which are unique to the year. For me 2015-2016 will stand out for the increased number of competitions our Primary School children have participated in and made the school proud by being the winners of some of them as well. Competitions were in different fields like sports, Information Technology, academics, debates and the performing arts, both between the IVEI schools as well as with other schools in the region. Some of the competitions students participated in this year were: Chess, Quran recitation, Arabic writing, Primary School debate, KenKen Math competition, Football, short film competition, X-Factor, Innoventures Anthem Recording, TEDX, Academic Olympiad to name the few.

A special mention must be made for the Kidzania Brainiac Competition in which our Gifted and Talented team of twenty students (from Years 4-7) did exceptionally well. The first round of competitions took place on Tuesday, 23rd February, 2016, which decided the winning teams to enter the semi-finals. KidZania Brainiac Competition Semi Finals took place on Friday, 04th March, 2016. Sixty Four schools competed for the semi-finals and RIS reserved its spot for the Grand Finals.

KidZania Brainiac Championship Competition (Grand Finals) took place on Friday, 11th March, 2016. Four schools entered the final round and competed for the championship. RIS students spend roughly seven hours battling other schools for the title of “Grand Champions.” After many exciting and nerve racking moments, RIS was declared the Grand Champions of KidZania Brainiac Championship Competition. The winning team returned home with the KidZania trophy and the grand prize of AED 20,000.

Students and teachers worked hard during their lunch breaks and at home practicing and training, and made their school, teachers and parents very proud. I have to thank the parents for their support which not only made the competition possible but made our students successful as well. The students felt like celebrities after their interviews with eJunior and a Dubai children’s magazine.

A very special thank you and appreciation goes to Ms. Beata Jargilo for her passion, hard work and dedication to the Gifted and Talented programme and students. I am sure her students and RIS will always remember her for the memories full of challenge; success and celebrations she helped create.

The Grand Prize of AED 20,000 is to be used to further enrich and resource the Gifted and Talented programme. Part of the prize reward was used to fund the winning team‘s earned celebrations.

Parents are strongly encouraged to make use of the summer packs put together by our teachers to keep the children academically engaged during the long summer months. Summer packs for all Year levels, Scholastic Reading Challenge, Math Whizz, useful websites as shared by teachers are some of the ways we can make sure that children make the ‘Summer Leap’ rather than loose some of the skills they have acquired over the school year.

If you are travelling back to your home country, please do remember to bring back a book in your home language to help us grow the bi-lingual section of our library, and a flag of your country to donate to the school. If you can pick-up the national dress for the children, you will be well prepared for the International Day celebrations.

I take the opportunity to thank all parents for their support throughout the year to enrich the school experience for all our students. I wish all families a wonderful, relaxing and safe summer, and to all Muslims families ‘a blessed month of Ramadan’ and a joyful Eid-ul-Fitr.

I look forward to welcoming the Raffles family in August 2016.

Mrs Zeba Khan Head of Primary School

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Message from the Dean of Students

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The UAE National Agenda Parameter 2016-2017

The UAE National Agenda continues to be one of the most important strategic initiatives introduced by H.H Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE, and Ruler of Dubai to steer us to work collectively to improve the quality of education across the UAE. KHDA introduced the UAE National Agenda Parameter in 2015-2016 as a method for measuring and monitoring schools’ progress towards achieving their individual National Agenda targets. The parameter requires all schools to participate in international and external benchmarking assessments on an annual basis other than TIMSS and PISA, and use them to monitor their progress in meeting their UAE National Agenda individual targets.

DSIB’s inspection findings for 2015-16 indicate clearly that there was a positive impact in schools that fully embraced and adopted the UAE National Agenda Parameter. In these schools, school leaders were more likely to use reliable assessment information to (a) identify gaps in student performance, (b) make required curricular adaptions, and (c) modify teaching to meet identified needs.

It is encouraging to see that most schools inspected have taken this initiative on board and embraced the spirit of the UAE National Agenda. In light of this, DSIB is pleased to share with you the UAE National Agenda requirements for the 2016-17 academic year.

Students at RIS have participated in many external tests/examinations/assessments this academic year.

Although testing can become overwhelming in schools, there are many significant benefits associated that will only help in moving RIS forward in its journey Towards Excellence. The collection of valuable data and information, understanding which aspects of the curriculum require modification and identifying trends in key groups of students are all important aspects that testing provides. At RIS, students participated in International Benchmark Tests in English, mathematics and science this year.

The IBT allows schools to compare student performance internationally, between years and overtime.

International Benchmark (IBT) tests in Science from 2015-2016 clearly indicate that RIS performed above average in the IBT schools internationally and in the Middle East in Years 7, 8, 9 and 10.

Pleasingly, data also confirms that RIS students show very good progress in IBT Science examinations.

International Benchmark (IBT) tests in English from 2015-2016 clearly indicate that RIS outperformed all IBT schools internationally and in the Middle East in Years 9 and 10. Year 8 students were in line with all IBT schools. International Benchmark (IBT) tests in mathematics from 2015-2016 clearly indicate that RIS outperformed all IBT schools internationally and in the Middle East in Years 7, 8 and 9.

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In addition to IBT’s, students in Year 5 participated in the Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS) administered by International Association for the Evaluation of Educational Achievement at Boston College. TIMSS enables participating countries to make evidence-based decisions for improving educational policy and raise global standards in mathematics and science. The results for TIMSS 2015 have not yet been published.

GL assessments were also taken by our students in Years 3-10. Progress Tests in mathematics, science and English (PTM, PTS, PTE) reflect changes in the curricula across the UK and provide valuable information in the core subjects. These tests are in line with expectations set out by the National Curriculum of England where there is now increased emphasis on spelling, grammar and punctuation across all key stages. In mathematics there is an increased focus on problem solving and so this is reflected in PTM. RIS has not yet received the results from these tests.

Gary Williams Dean of Students Endicott Survey RIS community is engaged in completing the Endicott Survey as part of the CIS Self-study process. Our ‘Tech Leaders’ are able to assist parents in the morning, during drop-off times to take the survey. They will guide you through the process and parents are advised to seek their support.

News from the Islamic Team Bismillah ar- Rahman ar –Raheem Allah (SWT) reminds us in the Qur’an, Suraah Taa Haa, aayaah # 114, that:“Rabbi zidni ‘Ilmaa” (O Lord, increase me in ‘ilm (knowledge).

I am Safia Khatoon Islamic Coordinator of Raffles International School, and I am honored to have the opportunity to write today.

On behalf of Raffles International School and Islamic Department, I would express gratitude about the special occasion of Innoventures Annual Quran recital and Arabic writing awards ceremony. Every year Innoventures conducts the Annual Quran recital competition.

Quran recitation is a regular part of the curriculum. Students are encouraged to learn the verses by heart and taught to practice the values that go by it, as the students of Innoventures are very fortunate to get an opportunity to display their talents. Alhamdulillah, this year’s quran competition was a great success for the Innoventures family (DIA, RWA, CAS, RIS).

This year RIS was the Host school for this competition. RIS were honoured to invite Dr. Mohammed Alkobaisi (Grand Mufti at Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department in Dubai) to the Qu'ran recitation presentation. Well done to all students who participated. It was a proud moment for all the parents and teachers

I would like to congratulate all the parents for their love and support in every step of the way. Most importantly, I congratulate the Islamic instructors who have been instrumental in preparing our winners today and for giving the quality training for excellence. These children have been selected for the preliminary Quran competition which was held at the end of May 2016. Qualifying students from the preliminary round would compete in the Innoventures inter-school level 2016. Students from the preliminary round would compete in the Innoventures inter-school level 2016.

I would like to thank the judges who have worked really hard for judging two days and have been fair and kind to be a part of this competition.

RIS were honoured to invite Dr. Mohammed Alkobaisi (Grand Mufti at Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department in Dubai) to the Qu'ran recitation presentation. Well done to all students who participated. Congratulations winners. Wishing you Ramadan Mubarak in advance.

Safia Khatoom Islamic Coordinator

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Dear Parents, Grandparents and Extended Family, It is the end of the academic year 2015-16. Over this past year our children have come through our doors to work, to paint, to build, to play and to learn. Through the power of work our children have grown socially, emotionally and academically. Through the power of compassion and love filled teaching, our children are prepared for the next step in life. It is with great pleasure that I wish the class of 2015-2016 all the very best- now and always. We will miss you and those children who are coming back to us, we will wait for you eagerly.

As this year comes to a close, I would like to thank our dedicated team of teachers and teaching assistants without whom we this year would not have been possible. It is their love and commitment due to which our children have had a wonderful year. I am blessed to be part of this team.

The End of Year Concert Thank you for coming.

Take care of our little ones and have a safe and happy summer holiday. A fond farewell from the teachers of the Nursery.

Garima Kapoor Nursery Coordinator

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Casa A Time has flown by so quickly. Our journey for the academic year has come to an end. It is time to say goodbye to the children. It is always sad to see them go but at the same time it is an amazing feeling to see how they have blossomed from a bud in September to a flower in June. We feel extremely proud of the children’s accomplishments. We would like to wish them happiness, love and success in each and every step of their life. Thank you to all the parents for your continuous support, your child will be dearly missed in Casa A. Have a superb summer break.

Ms. Tasnim Abdulali

Casa B I look back at the year that has passed by with fondness and joy of the great memories of our journey with the children. I wish them great success as they leave the nurturing Nursery environment and move to FS. Thank you parents for your support, cooperation and appreciating our work with your little ones. A big thank you to Ms Meriam and Ms Jusen for all the care, support and dedication shown towards the children.

Jyotsna Jadeja

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Casa C I really feel fortunate to work with wonderful children this year in Casa. Each child made the class brighter in their own way, learning with each other and from each other has been a part of their everyday school life. I would like to thank every parent for their wonderful support. Having parental support and open communication is an essential part of any successful school year and we managed it well with your kind involvement in various school and class activities. I do not have words to thank our CRAs, Ms Jasmine and Ms Lorena who have been so supportive throughout the school year.

Gitanjali Pathak

Casa D Thank you so much for a wonderful school year. I have had so much fun this academic year and I wish you the best of luck in all that you do always. I am so proud to have been your teacher. You all learned so much. Enjoy your summer break. It is well deserved. Ramadan Kareem to those who observe this holy month.

Sarah Mathenge

Casa E Every year around this time, my heart fills with pride as I realize how many new experiences and ‘wow’ moments I have had with my children. I am proud that Miss Judee and I were able to be there to promote, assist and lead the children in this amazing journey. I want to thank all the parents of Casa E for the continuous support to us and towards the children development. You made our job very easy. We could not have done it without you.

Susanna Allegra

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Casa F It has indeed been a lovely fun filled year filled with lots of activities and knowledge gained each day.

Whether it is how to share, say “thank you” or realize the fact that a caterpillar emerges to be a beautiful butterfly. Words cannot express the lovely moments that we shared together, growing with each and every one of your children in Casa F. I want to thank my class room assistants, Ms.Wilma and Ms.Eddielyn. Without them it would have been a different story. We take this opportunity to wish you all a lovely blessed and safe summer holiday.

Joanne Okera

Casa G It has been a great year. Heartfelt thanks to the parents for their trust and support throughout the year.

The learning progress of your child would not have been possible without your involvement. My tiny tots of Casa G, remember us as the years go by.

Safeera Salahuddin

Casa H The year has come to an end. My little toddlers have grown.I have seen them crawl, walk and run. I remember when they had come, they could not say a word but are now speaking phrases and complete sentences fluently. They have progressed remarkably. Their smile and “I love you Ms. Meeta”, made my day. As Trey Parker has said, “Saying goodbye doesn't mean anything. It's the time we spent together that matters, not how we left it. “ Meeta Asarpota

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FOUNDATION STAGE/YEAR 1 NEWS Dear Parents, The summer holidays are just around the corner and what better time to revisit safety measures to protect your family during this time. Please see below some safety tips: Practice Sun Safety When it comes to protecting your children from the sun, sunscreen plays an important role. But sunscreen is just one of the ways to guard against the sun's damaging rays. Because the sun's rays can reflect off of the sand and water or other reflective surfaces, hats and sunglasses can also play an important role in preventing UV damage.  Apply sunscreen. It can certainly be challenging to remember to apply sunscreen at least 30 minutes before going outdoors. But that is exactly what you and your children should do before heading outside, even on cloudy days (that's because UVA rays can go right through the clouds and still cause damage). Use generous amounts of UVA- and UVB- blocking sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15 and reapply every two hours or more often after swimming or sweating. Studies have shown that people often underestimate how much sunscreen they should be using, so be sure to follow the directions on the package (about one ounce for the entire body is usually the recommended amount). If your child is independent enough and wants to apply his own sunscreen, supervise the application and remind him to wash his hands when he is done so that he does not accidently rub sunscreen into his eyes. Finally, avoid using combination sunscreens with insect repellants because when sunscreen is reapplied, it can lead to excessive exposure to the repellant.  Get some sun-protective clothing. Dress your children in hats with wide brims and tightly-woven cotton clothing or clothes that have SPF built-in (many children clothes, especially swimsuits, have sun protection in them nowadays). Try to stay out of the sun between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when the sun is at its most intense peak, and try to stay in the shade as much as possible.  Shop for some cool shades. Do not forget your child's eyes when you are out and about. Look for children sunglasses that block 99 to 100 percent of UVA and UVB rays. You don't need to spend a lot on kid sunglasses research has shown that inexpensive sunglasses that are labeled as protective for UVA and UVB are effective in blocking the sun's harmful rays.

Protect Against Bugs Bugs are one of those annoyances of summer. But insects such as potentially disease-carrying mosquitoes and bees can also be harmful to children. To protect your child against bugs: 

Use insect repellents to guard against mosquitoes, many repellents are made with DEET, an effective insecticide that is toxic or even potentially deadly if swallowed. If you do use a product containing DEET, it is crucial not to apply the product to a child's hands or face to avoid possible ingestion; it is also important to wash off the product before bed to prevent overexposure to the chemical.  Wear long sleeve shirts and long pants when going outside, particularly at dusk when mosquitoes are more likely to be present.  Never leave stagnant pools of water around the house. Pools of water can serve as breeding grounds for mosquitoes.

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Avoid using scented soaps or perfumes on your child. And do not allow your child to walk around carrying sweetened beverages, such as fruit juices. These sweet, strong scents can attract bees and wasps and increase your child's risk of being stung.

Prevent Dehydration Whether your child is playing football with team mates or running around in the park with some buddies, it's important to keep in mind that frequent water breaks are very important to prevent dehydration.

Your child should drink water before exercise and during breaks, which should be about every 15 to 20 minutes. On particularly hot and humid days, it is also a good idea for parents to spray down children with some water from a spray bottle.

Do not Forget Helmets Your child should wear a helmet whenever she is on anything with wheels, such as a scooter, bicycle, or roller skates. A helmet is the most important device available that can reduce head injury. And be sure to set a good example by always wearing your helmet when riding your bike.

Guard Against Drowning  Each year, a large majority of children ages 14 and under die as a result of accidental drowning.

During the summer holidays drowning deaths among children are more frequent. If you have a swimming pool or if your child will be near one, it is crucial to put multiple safety measures in place to keep children safe.  Put barriers around the pool to restrict access. Use doors with locks and alarms to keep children out when adults are not present.  Never leave children unsupervised. Even if your grade-schooler is a confident and capable swimmer, do not leave the pool area without adult supervision if children are in or near the water.  Do not use flotation devices. Inflatable “floaties” and other flotation devices and toys can give children who cannot swim a false sense of security.  Learn CPR. You may never need to use it, but knowing CPR for adults and for children is something that can mean the difference between life and death in an emergency.  Learn about the dangers of secondary drowning, which can happen on dry land, hours after a child inhales water into the lungs.

As well as keeping our family’s health safe, we must not forget about protecting our children from ‘Stanger, Danger’.

"Stranger Danger", tips and strategies.

The following are important tips and strategies for children to protect themselves:  Know your name, address, and phone number.  Use the buddy system – avoid walking anywhere alone.  Trust your instincts – if you feel you are being followed or something is not right, seek help immediately.  If a stranger approaches you, you do not have to speak to him or her. Never approach a stranger in a motor vehicle. Just keep walking. Do not accept candy or any other items from a stranger. Never walk off with a stranger no matter what he or she tells you.  If someone is following you try to remember the license plate of his or her vehicle and immediately tell a trusted adult.  If a stranger grabs you, do everything you can to stop him or her from pulling you away or dragging you into his or her car. Drop to the ground, kick, hit, bite, and scream. Do whatever it takes to attract the attention of others who can help you. If someone is dragging you away, scream, "this is not my dad," or "this is not my mom."

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To avoid having your child exposed to any of the above, please keep them close to you at all times.

While sharing the above tips with your child is extremely important, the best way to teach stranger danger lessons is through role-playing scenarios. "Stranger Danger" role playing scenarios.

Have a safe and happy summer holiday, we look forward to welcoming you all back at the end of August.

Please visit our web site for the calendar for the next academic year.

Susie Mcshane Coordinator

FS News “Every great dream begins with a dreamer. Always remember you have within you the strength the patience and the passions to reach for the stars to change the world.” – Harriet Tubman Over the past year, the children in FS have been encouraged to reach for the stars with regards to their learning, to put no limit on what they can achieve within and outside the classroom. Often adults think well ‘They are so small’ we underestimate them and their capabilities. Time and time again the children have proven they can do anything by putting in some time and effort.

As we approach the end of this academic year, it has been a marvel to watch majority of the children develop into strong, independent, confident learners. Able to resolve conflict amongst themselves with little or no intervention, which is a credit to them. The children have been able to achieve so much only because we have been able to work together with the support of yourselves, the parents. Thank you from the FS team for taking time out of your schedules to help with reading, to talk about your culture, assist on field trips and class parties. This year would not have been what it was without you.

In closing we say to our children who are moving on keep dreaming, and reach for the stars. Have a lovely summer break.

FS Team Year 1 News It is hard to imagine that we are on the verge of finishing another school year 2015-2016. What a fantastic year it has been. As part of the transition from Year 1 to Year 2 ,Year ones have started the class assembly and are getting a chance to perform in front of the Year2 children.

The children are gearing up for the next stage of learning in the final month of the academic year. They are working hard to develop their logical thinking towards creative writing and mental mathematics skills.

The students performed well in the Annual production, which was thoroughly enjoyed and appreciated by the parents. To celebrate their hard work, we had a fun and memorable year –end party in our classrooms with loads of yummy food and drinks brought by the parents. Last but not the least, wishing all the parents, who are observing Ramadan a very joyous and blessed Ramadan.

Year 1 Team

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PRIMARY SCHOOL Dear Students and Parents, As this term comes to a close this is still a very busy time of year. Children have one week of school left but the curriculum is still as creative as ever. In Year 2, they have been building and using their design and technology skills with designing houses made out of recyclable everyday materials. The results have been amazing and I am sure other Year 2 parents have seen the fantastic creations when passing by the classrooms.

We have had a very successful “Read to Donate” across the primary school. Children brought in their books that have been read at home to donate to school. The children then had a day to buy a book for five Dirhams from a huge variety of books from their individual year groups. I thank the Year 3 Coordinator Ms Kavita for this amazing idea which has brought the love of literature forward for the children.

Innovation "Changes call for innovation, and innovation leads to progress."

Li Keqiang "Our future growth relies on competitiveness and innovation, skills and productivity... and these in turn rely on the education of our people."

Julia Gillard "For good ideas and true innovation, you need human interaction, conflict, argument, debate" Margaret Heffernan These quotes regarding innovation cause us to pause and reflect on what innovation is and how we can innovate in such a way as to improve our experiences and further our development. We are fortunate to live in a forward thinking and innovative society. At Raffles International School we take innovation seriously, we expect our colleagues and students to be innovative and to collaborate. We recognise that there is no need to change ‘for change’s sake’, however we believe that where there is room for improvement we will identify it and take action. A growth mindset is one that encourages learning from mistakes and the path to true innovation may be characterised by a series of mistakes that are learned from.

Innovative children become innovative adults, who are well prepared to thrive in the global workplace.

We continually promote interaction, argument and debate – critical thinking skills that enable our students to analyse, interpret and internalise information from a range of sources, with varying degrees of credibility and to form judgements and opinions of the world around them.

As parents we invite you to join us in our drive for innovation and would welcome your increased engagement, particularly on sharing innovation in your fields of work with our students, your children.

Together we will continue to innovate in our drive ‘Towards Excellence’ Jasmit Kang Deputy Head of Primary School

Year 2 News We have been busy little Bees in Year 2 over the past week. In English, we wrote letters to the Year 1 children outlining what a typical day would be like in Year 2 as well as all of the fun and exciting activities the students could look forward to experiencing next year. We hand delivered our letters to the Year 1 students and hope to get a reply before the year ends.

In mathematics, we continued our work with fractions to refine our knowledge and skills in this area. We completed some Kahoot quizzes on the iPads to test our understanding of fractions. We also incorporated some excellent learning apps about fractions into our lessons. They were great fun.

Our small model houses are still under construction and we are hard at work completing them during our science lessons. We have made the connection between caring for the environment and reusing materials to build our houses.

Our ‘Reading with Dad’ event was a great success and we even had a career talk from one of the dads which was very interesting.

As the end of the school year draws near, we are dedicated to finishing this year strong and being our very best. Great work Year 2.

Year 2 Team

Year 3 News Year 3 have had a fun filled two weeks promoting the “Year of Reading”. On the Tuesday, 31st May, the “Reading with Dads” event took place. The many fathers who came to participate in the event gathered in the Sports Halls, where students read poems and stories proudly about how much their fathers mean to them. Then the dads proceeded to the classrooms, where they read to their children and their classmates. The children were filled with excitement listening to the fathers and were fully engaged in the stories. This event was hugely successful, with positive feedback coming from parents and students alike. We truly appreciate all the dads who took time out to participate in this event.

Our second event was the “Read to Donate” campaign which took place on the Sunday, 5th June. Students donated a huge amount of story books which they have read and were finished with. All the books were then put on display for sale.

The students greatly enjoyed choosing their own books to buy and read. The event was a big success and all the proceeds went to the “GIVE” charity.

On Thursday, 2nd June the students enjoyed a class party to celebrate all of their hard work and efforts this year. This was a lovely way for the students to relax and take part in fun activities. We will now continue with our lessons until the end of term. In English, we are beginning to learn about play scripts and role play. In mathematics, we are continuing to learn challenging problem solving skills. In science the students are really enjoying learning about the Life Cycle of Butterflies.

From the Year 3 Team, we would like to wish everybody who is celebrating, a Ramadan Kareem.

Year 3 Team Year 4 News Year 4 are coming to the end of what has been a very busy and successful year for us all. We are now in the Holy Month of Ramadan and have our shorter school times. Nonetheless, we are still working hard and eagerly.

In English, we have been looking at the different features we see in play scripts. We are also practicing changing stories into play scripts and writing our own scripts. We are also looking into advertisements and the use of persuasive language in adverts.

In mathematics, we have been working very hard on a number of projects. Last week we created a theme park for the UAE. We completed many addition, subtraction and multiplication problems in order to work out the amount we spent and the profits we were making. This week we are gathering ideas to create our own mathematics board game. In science, we have been reviewing a lot of areas we focused on throughout the year. We have carried out different investigations about the length of our bones in comparison to the length we can jump. Our results showed that the length of your bones does not always mean you will have the longest jump. We are also looking in to the topic of The Solar System and the different planets which we are very excited to research.

Last week we were honoured to have some of our parents in for ‘Career Talk with Dad’. The students absolutely loved it and gained some excellent knowledge and insight to the different businesses and occupation around Dubai. Thank you to all our lovely dads who joined us. What a busy bunch we have been. We hope all of you are enjoying the Holy Month of Ramadan.

Year 4 Team.

Year 5 News As the year is drawing to a close, we begin to reflect back to see how far we have come and as always we are reminded of what a busy, fulfilled year it has been. As Year 5 teachers watch the students grow, mature and attain their personal goals. It has been a delight to bear witness to their achievements. We have had many successes this year big and small.

One which stands out is our Year 5 student Ines Fourrier achieving top 5 in the IBT results and we are all very proud of her. We recently went on two school trips which were a great success and brought out the curiosity and enthusiasm of our students. Our trip to a Robotics workshop got the children very engaged in the area of electronics and programme operations while the trip to the Aquarium had them investigating the many sea creatures which exist in our world. It has been a pleasure to nurture these young boys and girls. Thank you to all the parents for your continuous support. Year 5 team wishes good luck to all students and happy summer holidays.

Year 5 Team Year 6 News June has been a very busy month for the Year 6 students. On Tuesday, 31st May we had our Annual Science Fair. Students did an outstanding job creating imaginative and complex science projects. They first presented their projects to their classmates to prepare for the judges on the main event. The projects were presented with confidence and a great deal of background information. Thank you to all the parents who attended the event and showed their support.

We had a successful Read to Donate event in Year 6 last week. Students were excited to donate the books they had read and were happy to see them going to new homes. Thank you to those students that participated by contributing with their books. This week we had the Gifted and Talented Workshops taking place in Years 3-6. Selected Year 6 students participated in programmes that extended their knowledge and challenged them by working in groups and on hands on activities.

On Thursday, 16th June the Year 6 students will be graduating from Primary School. It is both an exciting and anxious occasion for them. They can celebrate their success in completing Primary School and remember all the fond memories they have had with friends along the way. We want to congratulate all of the Year 6 students for all the hard work and dedication that they have put into their studies, it makes their graduation that much more special. Next year they will be embarking on a new adventure in Secondary School, and we know that the skills they have gained in Primary School will help them succeed. We wish them all the best in the future. Lastly, we want to wish all Year 6 a relaxing and enjoyable summer holiday. It was a pleasure teaching such a vibrant and bright group of students. It is always a hard task to say goodbye after the great relationships formed throughout the year but we will look back and enjoy all the laughs and fond memories.

Year 6 Team

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SECONDARY SCHOOL Message from the Deputy Head—Secondary School The importance of Innovation

Innovation, as defined by the Merriam-Webster dictionary is “the act or process of introducing new ideas, devices, or methods” (1). Schools across the UAE are responsible and accountable for ensuring innovative ideas are introduced into teaching and learning and that will help drive curriculum modification.

I suppose that many people consider innovation or innovative ideas to be complicated by design and highly creative. The New York Times published an article in 2012 titled Innovations that will change your tomorrow (2). Within that article, 32 ideas were shared ranging from Roller Coasters with Wings to The Mind Reading Shopping Cart and from Teeth that Think to Blood Tests for Depression. Although these innovations sound fascinating and ground breaking, I do not necessarily think such outlandish ideas are necessary and should be the norm in schools. Instead, I believe teachers, students and school leaders have the capacity to be innovative within the classroom and beyond through simple collaboration, creativity and cross-curricular planning.

Let me share some examples with you. To help learn the Period Table of Elements in Science, students could use the video on the YouTube link below. This simple combination of scientific facts and musical representation of the facts can help students memorise/learn each element creatively. This would work very well for students who learn best through visual and auditory stimulation. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VgVQKCcfwnU How about learning Pythagoras Theorem through linking it to buildings in the UAE? To calculate A² + B² = C² students could look at or visit Ski Dubai and estimate each of the sides of the slope.

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How about using mathematics, data and science to calculate a student’s VO2 max on the 20 meter multi stage fitness test (bleep test) they complete in a PE lesson?

Imagine learning about the Olympic Games by looking at it through the lenses of History, Geography, Art, Business and English?

The list goes on.

My point is that innovation can be simple, yet very effective, if planned carefully. It is our aim at RIS to increase the amount of cross-curricular and innovative planning opportunities next year to help students create stronger links between subject areas and understand the importance of how each is connected to one another.

As always, if you would like to communicate with me regarding anything related to the Secondary School at RIS, please do not hesitate to send me an e-mail, give me a call or stop by the office.

Ian Plant Deputy Head of Secondary References 1. http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/innovation 2. http://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2012/06/03/magazine/innovations-issue.html?_r=0

Year 7 News As the academic year draws to a close, let us reflect on and appreciate the numerous ways in which we embodied the RIS Core Values effectively.

Through the numerous football and basketball tournaments against rival schools, Year 7 have demonstrated the spirit of collaboration. But it was not only our sportsmanship that illustrated this: Family Fun Day was a huge success and the pupils worked tirelessly week by week to ensure that their games were ready to played. The Young Apprentice (create a game) initiative also taught the pupils invaluable lessons about integrity, respect, achievement and responsibility.

Many pupils should be commended for their achievements this year: To the students who participated in the Quran recitals, you demonstrated the importance of the spiritual principles that that country is founded on. To those of you who entered the Arabic and English writing competitions; your pieces were inspirational and creative. Those who were involved in outside competitions including the Brianiac and the Olympiad, were able to showcase just a glimpse of what we have to offer academically.

Last but by no means least, we exemplified integrity when we took part in various charity drives including the Box Appeal and the Walkathon to raise money for those less fortunate than us. In addition to this we showed that we cared about our environment through participating in various eco-committee events including the beach clean-up and the fashion show to promote recycling.

Year 7 Team

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Year 8 News As the summer term draws to a close Year 8 are reflecting on their achievements over the year, looking forward to the long holiday and starting to think what Year 9 will look like.

The Holy month of Ramadan is a time of reflection, and no matter a person’s religion this time of year is a good time for thinking back and taking stock of what has gone on over the year.

I certainly have watched as the Year 8’s have grown and matured as people. I have seen them take more responsibility over their lives and their learning, and seen them tackle the challenges that the year has thrown at them.

As they prepare to go away for the summer, and to come back as Year 9 students, the students should be thinking of the great achievements they have made over the last academic year. Last week we had the sports awards to remind us of the many athletic achievements of the year group. As well as this students should think over their many great achievements, from the many family Fun Day activities that they designed themselves, to those who performed at our cultural events. All of these together show a year group who have really given their all for the school that can demonstrate maturity and the core values of RIS. Finally I know that I join with the rest of the Year 8 tutors in wishing our students the best for the summer break, and to thank them for making the 2015-2016 academic year a memorable one.

Year 8 Team

Year 9 and 10 News Even though it is a quiet time of the year, it is a challenging period for teachers as students are getting restless. Learning is still happening in the classrooms in many different ways.

In some subjects students are busy with projects to extend or consolidate their knowledge while in others subjects, students have started preparing for next year. Students are also given time to reflect on their school year; what they have learned, how they learned, what was challenging, how they dealt with those challenges and so on.

Last week there was also the Sports Awards Ceremony in recognition of the students who represented our school in sports team this academic year. Well done to all the students. You have made Raffles proud in many occasions with your performance and your sportsmanship. Special mention should be given to the U-16 Boys Basketball team who has been selected as the team of the year 2015-16.

Year 9 and 10 Team