RIS AD ASTRA - MERRY CHRISTMAS & HAPPY NEW YEAR by Ruamrudee International School Bangkok

REACH NEW HEIGHTS

TieCare provides the financial security you need so you can focus on reaching success.

Stephen Boush Regional Representative Cell: +82.10.2910.2221 Email: Stephen.Boush@gbg.com Web: www.tiecare.com

Health Insurance Life Insurance Long Term Disability Insurance Travel Insurance U.S. Tax Filing Services Retirement Planning

Serving Ruamrudee International School for more than a decade

Publication information: AD Astra is published four times a year by Ruamrudee International School. The objective of the publication is to report on and communicate happenings at Ruamrudee International School. At least 1,500 copies are printed per issue to send directly to all students and their families. AD Astra is also distributed among our faculty and staff numbering over 500, and mailed to RIS alumni and friends. The RIS family is a large and growing community of international citizens.

ad astra team editor:

Sudha Maroli

contributing editor: Katharine Mitchell

coordinator:

Tharatharn Kositanont

Graphics design/layout: Sornchai Pongheamwattana

Printed by

ADVANCED PRINTING SERVICE CO.,LTD.

ruamrudee international school

6 Ramkhamhaeng 184, Minburi, Bangkok 10510 Tel: +66 (0) 2791 8900 Fax: +66 (0) 2791 8901-2 Website: www.rism.ac.th E-mail: info@rism.ac.th

5 Message from the School Chaplain Father Leo Travis 6 Message from the Editor Sudha Maroli 7 EARCOS Leadership Conference

2012 Dr. J. Andrew Westerman 8 International Food Fair Parent Auxiliary Executive Committee 10 Connections Krit Sitathani, Class of 2005 12 Bridges of Peace and Hope Hero Bhawat Harnpakdee 14 Lexiles in the Griffith Library Dr. Grier Rivers 15 Stress Busters! Coping with Exam Pressure Nancy Sousa 16 Lights! Camera! Action! Reading Aloud in the ES Toni Boush 17 ES Halloween Parade 18 iPad Initiative @ ES Dainty Angeles & Tim Pettine 19 iPad Project in the ES Supen Lin & Lisa Monson 20 Information Literacy & Science Research in the Elizabeth Library Kat Hudson 22 From Memory to Memoir: Grade 5 Writing Project Patrick Maher 23 MS Math Competitions Robert Ledlie 24 Music to Our Ears Anneliese Zausner-Mannes 25 MS ASEAN Learning Project Pongsatorn Kaewngam 26 Connecting the Past and the Present Nichapa Srisuk 27 Read For Life Project: “Meet the Author” HS Thai Studies 28 Thai Culture Day HS Thai Studies 30 HS Thai Field Trip HS Thai Studies

32 Day of the Dead Walter Koertge 33 Japanese Culture: Yukata and BonOdori Megumi Furuya 34 French Trip to Horseshoe Point

Olivier Fernandez & Beatrice Sirinuntananon 36 Double the Drama Blythe Rennie 38 Class Couture Pavla Poch 39 ES Art Students Are Clay Crazy! Andrea Heinz Marrinson 40 Eclectic Electives Michaela Marusak 41 HS Photography Pavla Poch 42 Grade 8 Portraits Eric Jacklich 43 Art Inspires Art Katharine Mitchell 44 Singing in Cha-am Cat Bennett 46 Greetings, Sports Fans! Gerry Steiert 48 Golden Boot Award Jillian Nichols 49 Parent Letter of Appreciation RIS Parent 50 JV Boys Football Reclaims BISAC Trophy Sean McMahon 52 ES Teacher Represents Thailand in Lacrosse Tournament Matthew Smith 54 HS Clubs Collect for Charity! Jillian Nichols & Shirley Gamble 56 Protein Power MS & HS Student Council 56 Yes, We “Can”-dy! Amy Diefendorf 57 Santa Claus Comes to Town! Amy Diefendorf 58 Blood Type Crosses ALL Boundaries Sabrena Baiagern AD Astra Volume 6 December 2012

Christmas Message 2012

y first desire today is to wish each of you a very Blessed and Happy Christmas! I pray that your family can be together for this glorious feast of the Birthday of Jesus. May you greet others with a simple “Merry Christmas!” to spread the joy of the feast. And may you be greeted by others, who wish to share their peace with you. They say that Angels sang to the Shepherds on that first Christmas night to announce their message that Peace should reign on earth! In a quiet prayer time this Christmas of 2012 we might hum along with a song we hear so often in church “This day God gives me strength of high heaven, might to uphold me, wisdom to guide.” May God bless you! May you have a Merry Christmas! As I write this message for Christmas 2012, my thoughts race back to 1956 when I celebrated my first Christmas in Thailand. Holy Redeemer Church was only two years old at that time, built at the outskirts of what was “Bangkok” in those days, as the only Catholic church in the city not built right along the banks of the Chaophya River. Life seemed to be rather simple with our parish slowly beginning. Father Jack Boucher, a classmate of Father Griffith, was one of the priests at the parish. He wanted to have a choir to sing for Christmas. Fortunately there were a good number of Filipino Catholics who had formed bands and sang at restaurants and other good singers among the parishioners. These people came and formed the first choir. We had no school at the parish in those days, so there were no children to form a student choir. We built our first school, the beginning of RIS, in 1957, giving us Servers for Mass and voices among the children to bring greater joy to celebrations in years that followed. There were no Christmas trees in Bangkok in 1956...but we had friends in the Pan Am Airline who flew in two tall trees to give the sanctuary of Holy Redeemer Church and the Crib a familiar touch of green for Christmas! Tourists had not begun to come to Bangkok in those days. In fact, there were very few indications anywhere that Catholics were celebrating the Birth of Jesus on December 25th, except at the churches. I remember seeing only one little imitation Christmas tree in a store window down by the Cathedral. Bangkok became more glorious in the years that followed, and so did Christmas and the way of celebrating! We can be thankful that there are now many, many churches throughout Thailand. You and I can easily find a way of joining in song and prayer. At Saint Thomas Church we will have two evening Masses on Christmas Eve, and three Masses on Christmas Day. My desire, as I mentioned above, remains to be my prayer for each of you on the feast of Christmas 2012 and throughout the Christmas Holidays of our Christmas vacation. May you have a very Blessed and Happy Christmas! God bless you! Merry Christmas! Father Leo Travis, C.Ss.R.

have just returned from a trip to Islamabad, which was made possible by the kind cooperation of the Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Royal Thai Embassy in Islamabad. Ever since the inception of Ruamrudee International School, we have been privileged to be the school of choice for educating the children of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. It was with pride that we traveled to Islamabad with the main purpose of promoting RIS to interested diplomats and educational institutions. The presentations were extremely well received by the audiences. We were set of apart as a school where “Cognition Meets Compassion.” A humbling experience was an invitation of Madame Alia Alik Khan, wife of the State Minister, to visit the Bebud Foundation at Said Pur Village. So many lovely little kids ready to receive education with such limited space and resources. RIS has made her a promise that we will collect used supplies and books and aid the needy kids. The popularity of H.E Ambassador Marwin Attanawin and his wife Sudarat Attanawin made many things possible including visits to a few local schools. We were also invited to make a presentation at an international school for an audience of over 400 on the topic of the role of education in inspiring “Social Entrepreneurs.” At the end of the session, Roots International School requested that we collaborate on a student exchange program. We were also asked to work with them on several community service projects. Community Service is an important feature of International Schools. With Community Service, I believe that we do not only concentrate on the act of giving but also on the critical issues of the economy, sociology, politics, and the issues of social justice. The festive mood has set in and it is time for celebrations, presents, vacations, fun and feasts. At RIS we have plenty to be thankful for and this is reflected in this issue of Ad Astra. At a personal level, I have come to believe this time of the year is not only for filling stockings but also for stocktaking. During this time, my deepest longing is about human hearts. I hope the New Year brings you much peace, joy and love.

Sudha Maroli Deputy Head of School for School Affairs

AD Astra Volume 6 December 2012

Dr. J. Andrew Westerman, MS Principal

he EARCOS Leadership Conference, held in Kuala Lumpur November 1-4, delivered on the high expectations of our administrators by providing cuttingedge professional development and dialogue. This year’s theme was “The ‘Why’ of School in 2030.” The children born this year will be graduating from High School in 2030. The conference focused on how schools are reinventing themselves with innovative programs and use of technology, keeping those graduates in mind. In the words of keynote speaker Alan November, the capacity to give our students a “sense of purpose toward making contributions to a learning community can be one of the most powerful and effective ways of improving achievement for all students.” Conference session topics

varied from assessment, curriculum, and job-a-like conversations to recruitment, iPads for authorship, and implementing innovation. MS Principal Dr. Andy presented Saturday morning on cultural contexts in parental expectations for involvement. Ms. Toni, ES Principal and Ms. Madeleine, ES Literacy

Coach, presented at the conference on collaborative leadership. Both presentations represented Ruamrudee International School well and were received positively by those in attendance. All three principals (Ms. Toni, Dr. Andy, and Mr. Eric) as well as Dr. Peter and Fr. Apisit attended the conference.

AD Astra Volume 6 December 2012

he Parent Auxiliary Executive Committee would like to express our utmost appreciation and thanks to everyone for the success of our International Food Fair held Wednesday, October 17, 2012.

The exciting day helped raise funds amounting to a great sum of Baht 245,897 which the Parent Auxiliary will use to finance student activities and projects that will benefit our students and our school. May we take this opportunity to thank all of our Principals, Assistant Principals and the school administration for their assistance and support, to all parents and teachers who organized, planned and helped with food sales, and finally to all the generous food and cash donations we received from members of our RIS community. Thank you for joining in the fun, for working as a team, and for showing true RIS school spirit!

The Fair was an entertaining event with colors of cultural diversity and tastes of various international delectable dishes and savory cuisine. We had over 40 food and fun booths; students, teachers and parents dressed in their spectacular traditional costumes; and to add to the festive atmosphere, musical shows from our talented elementary school section and a jazz band performance to offer a zest to the dayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s events. Sincerely,

The PA Executive Committee AD Astra Volume 6 December 2012

Meet Krit Sitathani, RIS Alumni 2005, Cambridge University RIS Alumni Krit Sitathani proves that one can be a lifelong learner and live a well balanced life as an academic, music lover, athlete and business person. How did RIS prepare you for university? I did the International Baccalaureate during my time in RIS and that work load was actually more than the first year of my undergraduate. I learned how to time manage and study effectively, which eventually helped me graduate with the British equivalent of Summa Cum Laude.

What are you other interests, outside of science? Although I wasn’t really involved with sports while I was at RIS, I started rowing in the UK a couple of years ago. Somehow things got serious and escalated up to the point where I found myself trialing for the Thailand National Rowing team for the London 2012 Olympics this past November.

Tell us about your academic career leading up to your PhD candidacy. I did my Master’s Thesis as part of my undergraduate degree at the University of Liverpool, where I used an ultra-fast femtosecond laser to study the decomposition of carbon monoxide. Due to my thesis work and grade from my undergraduate, I was offered a place at the University of Cambridge.

I’m also a professional DJ, but nowadays that is just a hobby. What do you hope to do after you earn your doctorate? I’m actually deciding to take a break from my time as a full fledge scientist and I am looking into becoming a business strategy consultant. I will most likely be returning to academia sometime down the road but at the moment I intend to branch out.

What is your research focus at Cambridge? My research is about creating a new type of catalytic converter to be used in petroleum and diesel engine What advice can you give to RIS students? Do not fear failure - always try new things and be cars. passionate. Don’t give yourself an excuse to not do something or blame someone else for why you failed at a task. Excuses are for people who don’t succeed. What advice can you give to aspiring young scientists? Work smart and hard and the world will be your oyster. I learned how to finish 2-3 hours’ worth of work in 1, which allowed me to pursue my other interests such as rowing and DJing.

AD Astra Volume 6 December 2012

By Krit Sitathani

ust over a year before I was walking into Thailand’s Olympic Rowing squad training camp, I found out that I did not get selected for my college’s senior rowing squad. For me, it was a very personal rejection and I was saddened by the results for a few days.

changed from “Would I make the senior squad?” to “Where would I be in the senior squad?”

To draw on a quote by Thomas Edison, success is 10 percent talent and 90 percent perspiration. Due to the amount of training I put in, I managed to beat people who were more talented, taller, and stronger than me. Many people are afraid of failure, but it is those who After I made the selection, I went on to win a number are not afraid that succeed. This can apply to any aspect of races, earning blades, and my blazer - but more of a person’s life from their career, studies, to their love importantly, I started to make my 2012 Olympic bid. life. When you don’t even make an attempt, you will miss an opportunity to do something amazing. Fast forward half a year and I found myself sitting in one of Thailand’s National Rowing team’s boats. Although After missing selection, some people gave up, some the result of trialing was not as good as I hoped, it gave people changed sports, some people cried. But I started me a taste for the Olympics. At the end of the training training. I trained every day, more often twice a day to camp, as I walked out my final words to the rest of the improve my fitness and technical ability. I lost sleep, I crew were “I will see you in four years.” sacrificed my social life, and I sacrificed my body to improve my rowing ability. My trial and tribulations made me into a far stronger and better person. Both my failure and successes have By the time of the next selection, there was not even a equally helped shape me into who I am today. Never be doubt that I would make the senior crew. The question afraid of failure, for it is the only path to success.

AD Astra Volume 6 December 2012

Grade 10 student Bhawat (Tae) Harnparkdee has been named a “Bridges of Peace and Hope Hero” for his essay about RIS High School Teacher Jaffrie Mussa. The essay, submitted for an international student writing contest, celebrates Mr. Jaff’s dedication to teaching peace studies and inspiring students in Thailand, Tanzania or beyond.

My Peace Hero: Mr. Jafferali Mussa By: Bhawat Harnpakdee (Tae)

ne day we all will have to determine which path to take when we encounter a crossroad in life. An average person would select the path that will benefit the person most.While a unique few will sacrifice their own well being for that of others, and for the greater good of humanity. Mr. Jafferali Mussa is truly a unique being, who denies the many pleasures life has to offer, in order to aid those who are in need, and to illuminate those who are in the dark with the light of peace. Mr. Jaff grew in Tanzania, between Zanzibar and Kilimanjaro. He and his friends lived a challenging life, not wealthy and privileged as many of us are, going to school everyday with only one textbook to learn from. Although the economic conditions in Tanzania were not affluent, Mr. Jaff managed to study abroad in the United States with the original intention of studying accounting. Meeting a college professor teaching African Studies convinced him that although he will make a fortune if he studies accounting, it is not his true goal in life. From that point onwards, Mr. Jaff came to realization that his true objective in life is to spread peace to the world, and this can only occur through educating the young who will be the future leaders. Although he will not be as rich and wealthy as if he had studied accounting, he recognized that he could maintain a simple and happy life by helping others and concentrating his abilities on educating the young instead of pursuing personal luxuries. Receiving a Bachelors degree in Developing World Studies, and a Master degree in 12

AD Astra Volume 6 December 2012

education, he then sets off to enlighten people with peaceful wisdoms. He began teaching at Ruamrudee International School in 2008. Influencing a large population of the students with peaceful thoughts and ideas, his contribution to society as an educator of peace inspires many within the RIS community to strive for peace. Most people tend to look over the important role that teachers play, and that is educating the young with peace, to mould children into future citizens with the correct mindset. Without educators and supporters of peace, there can be no peace in the future. Mr. Jaff as well as many educators around this globe takes on the role that most of us dare not take. They care more about the wellbeing and education of others that they sacrifice their personal gains for the general good of

the community. Without proper education and the lack of insertion of peace in education, the youth will develop into nothing more than educated people lacking ethics and morals. We need intelligent young people with a mind-set aimed at installing peace throughout the troubled societies around the world. In 2008 Mr. Jaff began the construction of a school in Tanzania, though the process will consume a lot of time due to the lack of economic strength in the region. Mr. Jaff aids his colleagues financially as well as contributing ideas and advices on setting up an education system in Tanzania. One of his many contributions is helping to set up an effective academic system which is as effective as Western systems. The setting up of these effective education systems will significantly contribute to the academic growth and development of various schools in the region. He contributes his knowledge gained from the opportunity he received for higher education to good use by returning to his homeland to aid in the process of improving the educational system in the region, which will provide the nation with future leaders with mind-sets benefitting society. “In most third world nations around the world, the potential growth has been hindered because of the lack of peace. This is apparent globally. With wars and unrests sparking, citizens die, agriculture destroyed, financial and economic systems collapse, it leaves the population to live in extreme poverty. It is by time we move beyond war. About time that humanity, and society moves beyond wars, beyond fighting, beyond aggression and develop into something better. This can only be achieved through peace. Education is going to make the change - you teach people and you make the people understand that peace is the only road that will lead to economic development, and a better world. If we cannot see peace in our generation, the young people educated in peace will be the ones who bring peace to the future.” This is his core belief. This is what he is striving to share with people who have the opportunity to improve this imperfect world. Education will enlighten people with the fact that peace will get them out of poverty, will help them live a better life.

Mr. Jafferali Mussa is my peace hero because his teachings and his view of the world corrected my mind-set to be a peaceful one aimed at developing the world to be a better place for all. He has educated over 300 students who studied Values and World Religions at RIS alone. This original 300 will spread the word of peace, to thousands more, thus multiplying his benevolent teachings. Over 300 minds are now aimed at improving the world to be a better place in every way possible. By installing effective education systems in Tanzania, the young there will be educated and improve the economy and wellbeing of the people in the region through peace. By providing education, valuable above all, he has increased the probability of the world becoming a more peaceful place, in which everyone will have enough to sustain a healthy life. If he does not live to experience global peace, his hard and selfless work will enable peace to grow in future generations. His unselfish ambitions and tedious work has sowed the seeds of peace, which will sprout during future generations if not during his. “The best inheritance one generation can pass on to another are the pillars of peace and the foundation of knowledge. The rest are secondary.” – Jakaya Kikwete – President of Tanzania AD Astra Volume 6 December 2012

By Dr. Grier Rivers A book gets a Lexile text measure when it’s analyzed using a special formula that looks at word frequency, sentence length, and overall difficulty of the book.

How does the Griffith Library use Lexile measures?

We use many factors to match a reader with a “just right” book, including its content, the age and interests of the reader, and the design of the actual book. The Lexile text measure is also a good starting point in the book-selection process, with these other factors then being considered. The idea behind using Lexiles to match readers with “just right” books is simple: if we know how well a student can read and how hard a specific book is to comprehend, we can predict how well that student will likely understand the book. When students read books that are “just right” they consistently build vocabulary and comprehension skills.

Find “just right” books in the Griffith tudents in Grades 2-10 have been participating Library

in MAP testing at RIS. The MAP Reading test provides quite a bit of useful information about each student’s reading abilities, including a Lexile measure. In the Griffith Library, we use the Lexile measure to help match readers with books that are appropriate for their reading levels. When parents received their child’s Individual Student Report showing their MAP scores, the child’s Lexile measure was included in the report.

What is a Lexile Measure?

A Lexile measure is a valuable piece of information about either an individual’s reading ability or the difficulty of a book.

We have leveled the Fiction collection of the library by putting colored dots on the spine of each book indicating its Lexile level. We also have a formula for converting a Lexile measure into a grade level measure so students can search our online catalog for “just right” books.

Lexile Measures Help Readers Grow, and Help Parents and Teachers Know

Teachers and parents can best serve a student’s reading needs when they look at the child’s individual reading ability, rather than focusing on whether the child has met the norm. The reading abilities of young people in the same grade at school can vary just as much as their shoe sizes. Using Lexile measures to match a reader with a “just right” book creates a personalized reading experience for each student.

A student gets his or her Lexile reader measure from the MAP test. For example, if a student receives an 880L on her MAP Reading test, she is an 880 Lexile reader. Higher Lexile measures represent a higher level of For more information on Lexiles… reading ability. Lexile reading scores range Beginning You can visit the official Lexile site at www.lexile.com Reader (BR) through a score of 1600, which indicates or visit Dr. Grier in the library. an advanced reader. 14

AD Astra Volume 6 December 2012

By Nancy Sousa, HS Counselor

“Stress is not about the exam, but what you think about the exam.”

- Roger Mead

s the examination period approaches, you may be letting the pressure of exams get to you. This is not surprising and it is normal to feel anxious before exams. Some pressure is good because it motivates you to do work and keeps you focused, but too much anxiety can make you exhausted, frustrated and angry. Here are some tips to help keep those nerves at bay.

Before the Exam: • Believe in yourself. Self-confidence is a main factor in succeeding so begin with positive self-talk, such as, “I am a good student, I will do fine,” or “I studied, I know this information.” • Time management: Break studying down into manageable chunks and make a to-do list to organize what and when you will study. Incorporate break times too! • Leave plenty of time to review so that you don’t get into a situation of having to do last minute cramming. • Get help: Ask your teacher to review content with you or request a tutor from Ms. Shirley or an NHS member. • Do it together: Form study groups. If you’re not as strong in certain areas, talk to other students who are. If you are good in a subject area, share the brainwealth. One of the best ways to be certain you know the information is to teach others. • As soon as you notice your mind is losing concentration, take a short break. Your brain is telling you it needs to be refreshed. • Don’t drink too much coffee, tea, soda or energy drinks. The caffeine will make you hyper, but it also makes your thinking less clear. • Get enough sleep, eat good food and exercise. These steps will help boost your energy, clear your mind and reduce any feelings of stress. • Try yoga or meditation to relax. This makes you feel calm, balanced and improves your concentration levels.

• Don’t keep things bottled up. Confiding in someone you trust and who will be supportive is a great way of alleviating stress and worry. • Don’t try to be perfect. It’s great to succeed and reach for the stars, but keep things in balance. If you think that “anything less than A+ means I’ve failed” then you are creating mounds of unnecessary stress for yourself. Aim to do your best but recognize that none of us can be perfect all of the time. • Keep things in perspective. The exams might seem like the most crucial thing right now, but in the grand scheme of your entire life they are only a small part.

During and After the Exam: • If your mind goes blank, close your eyes and take several long, slow deep breaths. Breathe in while counting to 4 seconds, hold your breath for 4, then slowly exhale for 4. Breathing in this way calms your whole nervous system. Simultaneously tell yourself “I am calm, I will do my best.” • If you still can’t remember the information then circle the ones you don’t know, move on to another question and return to the ones you circled later. • After the exam don’t spend endless time criticizing yourself. Instead, congratulate yourself for the accomplishment! Most importantly, if you feel that your exam anxiety is building up to a point where your sleep, health or relationships are starting to be affected, seek help from your counselor. We are here to support you! AD Astra Volume 6 December 2012

Two courageous Grade 5 students, Candy and Adina, are paving the way toward building a new program called “Read Along with Me!” The intent of this exciting literacy project is for upper elementary students to read English-language children’s literature to our younger students.

because they have to carefully choose effective writers and illustrators.

The videos will be posted on the ES Principal’s Blog and the Elizabeth Library Website for all ES students and families to access. The idea is that younger ES students will check out specified books from the library and take them home, where they can listen to the stories being read out loud, in English, while they follow along, either for reading practice or at bedtime.

The idea for the Reading Aloud project originated from conversations with parents, who expressed reluctance to read aloud to their children in English. Parents do not always read aloud with their children because they are afraid the students will pick up on their accents (which may not be clear or exactly correct). I am a passionate educator especially when it comes to literacy. Having books read aloud at home is what I consider to be very important. We have put together these videos so that now parents have an option for their children to still be read to at home in English.

hile having older children read to their younger peers during school hours is a great experience for all students involved, we wanted to extend the project beyond the confines of the classroom. To that end, we’ve launched a new video recording series, “Read Along with Me!”, in which upper ES students are recorded reading English language books out loud. These digital storytelling sessions are being recorded professionally in RIS’s very own Video Production Studio, with brave students reading before a camera.

The Reading Aloud project benefits younger children, as they develop their listening, reading and speaking skills, as well as the older children, who gain practice working on their fluency, pronunciation and voice, as well as their presentation and public speaking skills. This activity also generates book discussions between the older students 16

AD Astra Volume 6 December 2012

Candy and Adina enjoyed the project and felt as if they were on Real TV as a live “Talk Show” host. They both felt it helped them build confidence in their reading skills and in using voice fluctuation! They cannot wait to record some more books.

A big “thank you” goes to Ms. Kat, ES Librarian, for making time in her day to take these young people to our studio and guiding them through the recording process as well as helping us find appropriate books for the taping.

AD Astra Volume 6 December 2012

By Dainty Angeles, ES Tech Integration Specialist & Tim Pettine, K-12 Tech Integration Coordinator

he ES has many good reasons to celebrate advancements in technology. The ES now enjoys Wifi connectivity throughout the building, facilitating Internet access, and supporting the exciting arrival of a classroom set of 22 iPads. The iPad is a multi-dimensional tool that promotes 21st century teaching and learning in the classroom. The implementation of iPads in ES classrooms will certainly enhance learning opportunities in literacy and other subject areas. It will also promote deeper learning by allowing students to access, use, create and publish digital online information. Through the use of iPad, students will be challenged to think creatively and critically.

The iPad also offers opportunities for students to collaborate and communicate in a variety of ways when sharing their knowledge and learning experiences.

creations, story book creations, and word building activities. We will continue to explore ways to effectively integrate iPads into the classroom with a belief that these tools will bring transformation to In an effort to make our 21st century the classrooms, make learning more learning adventure with the iPads a engaging and augment our studentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; success, elementary teachers were lives as digital natives. initially introduced to the devices during the 21st Century Learning Day Parents of children with iPads at Workshop held in October. We all home will benefit from talking to had an opportunity to use and explore teachers about what kinds of Apps the devices first-hand and we delved will complement learning in the into a wide range of apps initially classroom. It is always wise to selected to help teachers explore consider the following criteria when the many attributes of the iPad as a browsing for educational apps: teaching and learning tool. Following the workshop, an iPad team was . Do your homework. established to provide structure and Read reviews from iTunes guidance for the use of iPads in the and search for third party reviews classroom, establish policies and that give you the most up to date procedures that support learning and information on Apps. This is critical teaching, approve app proposals from because older reviews may not teachers, and research and review have taken into account updates apps for use in the classroom. and bug fixes. Here is where you should consider developmental The iPad initiative will initially appropriateness as well. focus on the lower primary, . Does the App offer Preschool - Grade 1. They have opportunities for trial been allocated and checked out by teachers to explore and use in and error, along with their classrooms. Some teachers feedback on performance? have started using them for reading The oldest research on the use of fluency projects, comic book technology in the classroom reveals

1 2

AD Astra Volume 6 December 2012

that repetition and time on task can be greatly increased through computer applications and simulations. Most effective elementary apps offer rewards and badges that have shown great promise in motivating learners.

. Encourage Apps that produce original works or Apps that are problembased.

information from all subjects to explore a real, authentic problem. You can encourage your children to solve “around the house” problems (how much electricity does our TV use? Where does the electricity come from? How can we use less resources to run our home?).

Ultimately, when it comes to technology in education, parents are encouraged to consider the Sure Fruit Ninja is fun, but what is following ideas: created or what problem is explored in using the app? Consider an app that Balance. Learning should be fun, asks students to make a book, tell a but it should also be challenging. No story, photograph/video experience, device should ever be allowed to drive communicate their thoughts to family/social interaction. It is ok to friends and family. Challenge- say, “Put down the iPad.” Remember, based learning utilizes skills and the iPad (and any connectivity device)

is only a tool. Furthermore, apps are purpose driven programs that have limitations to be considered. Use the tools in conjunction with a proper context and the valued fluencies will progress. Modeling what we value. One very important piece of parental advice is never use the iPad as a reward/ punishment. When it comes to learning, we should avoid attaching those types of labels to tools that are defined by the user. As a parent, consider your time together important and use that time to share and demonstrate those skills and habits that will be the foundation of a life-long learner.

insect’s life cycle the children wrote scripts explaining the stages of development from egg to adult. Once the scripts were ready, they practiced presenting their information in clear, fluent voices to be ready for the next step using the iPad.

The iPad has an application called Voicethread. The life cycle images were uploaded to Voicethread and then the students recorded their voices reading the scripts to explain what takes place during each insect’s life cycle.

ince the recent purchase of a classroom set of iPads, our second grade classrooms have been To give them an opportunity for an audience the anxious to integrate them into unit projects. Voicethreads were uploaded to the second grade classroom websites. An email was sent to their parents We chose the subjects of life science and language informing them of the project. They were asked to please arts (writing, speaking, and presenting) as our first take a look and listen and then write comments to the attempt to incorporate the use of this new technology. students. The children were also given an opportunity The students had just completed a unit studying insects to listen to each other’s and give personal feedback. and their life cycles. To enhance their learning, the students were asked to research and choose an insect Our first integration of iPad was a success and we they were interested in. After finding an image of that look forward to many more projects in the future. AD Astra Volume 6 December 2012

By Kobkrit “Ryu” Srichatphirun (5-4) and Ms. Kat Hudson

or many years, I have had the greatest pleasure teaching science by using animals in the classroom to promote inquiry-based learning. When I was asked to join the Elizabeth Library Team and become a teacher of Information Literacy this year, I was challenged to connect my passion for science with my skills as a librarian. The definition of “Information Literacy” is the ability to locate, process and use information effectively. Having our elementary students use nonfiction resources to learn about interesting animals was an educational combination I wanted to explore.

Connecting with nature and the environment is crucial for them to become stewards of this planet. Since I have many animals, I organized a presentation with my oneyear-old bearded dragon “Pang Mak.”

Immediately, the students were excited about Pang Mak’s visit. Reptile books both fiction and non-fiction were being requested. Ryu, an inquisitive Grade 5 scientist, immediately connected with me. His interest went above and beyond the norm. Ryu checked out resource books that we had in library and then went out and bought more for us to use. He started a science A great majority of our students are interested in learning journal recording interesting facts and drawings about about live animals in a safe and educational environment. bearded dragons and came to visit me every day in the library. I invited Ryu to create an informational power point so that we could educate others about Pang Mak. He immediately accepted and started to add his own photos, Internet facts and experiences to our now, joint presentation. “Pang Mak” – a bearded dragon visits the library and causes great excitement! 20

AD Astra Volume 6 December 2012

Ryu shines in this role of scientist/informational literacy expert. He spoke with confidence and clarity during his class presentation and stepped forward as a leader among his classmates who admire his passion.

As a result, many students in the elementary section visited the library for a special lizard presentation and came away with an appreciation for an animal that is often feared or met with disdain. Thank you Ryu, for leading the way! Ryu and Ms. Kat collaborate!

I am a kid who LOVES animals. When I learned Ms Kat was bringing in her bearded dragon, I wanted to help. She said to me, “We can make a presentation together!” I got very excited. I first helped Ms. Kat by finding facts and information on the computer. YouTube was helpful for me to find what I needed. The first video I watched was about a guy who sells bearded dragons. He asked, “What do you know about bearded dragons?” and then he told a bunch of facts about them. He said, “A bearded dragon is a very good pet to have because it doesn’t scream and it is cool too.” Then, I went to the library and checked books out about lizards. There were many to choose from. I helped find more information for Ms. Kat and we made a PowerPoint together. I learned interesting facts about Pang Mak. For example, the bearded dragon can come in six different colors depending on where it lives. It can also swim very well. I learned so much. I shared all this information with my class during a presentation in the library. Ryu, Grade 5 AD Astra Volume 6 December 2012

from memory to memoir: Grade 5 Writing Project M

r. Patrick’s Grade 5 students recently reflected on their life experiences by writing their very own personal memoirs. Students engaged in the writing process, concentrating on the 6+1 Traits of Writing, and presented their final drafts using Google Apps. The young writers then shared their memoirs with Ms. Katharine’s Grade 8 Creative Writing students, thus extending their audience and

receiving feedback on their writing. Through the use of Google Docs, Grade 8 students were able to directly comment on the younger students’ memoirs. This collaboration between ES and MS students inspired ES students to make further revisions before sharing their final products. Enjoy reading two of the Grade 5 Memoirs below.

Learning to Care, Caring to Learn

By Bouquet, Grade 5

School

When I was young, I never cared about school. I got many low grades and my mom glared at me as if she had fire in her eyes. My grades were horrible. Seeing my mom very angry was not fun. How did I survive this nightmare?

did my work carelessly. The next day, I walked into class feeling relaxed and handed in my homework. I saw other students handing in theirs, with the maps colored nicely with bright colors. Once again, I got another P for effort.

Participating

Change

My memories of changing my attitude towards All this made me change because when I got my school began at RIS. report card my mom exploded. After that I walked into class and concentrated on learning. The next “Who’s gonna share their writing?” my teacher time we had social studies homework I tried harder. asked. My teacher said we were going to have a social studies test, so I went home and studied and colored Everyone raised their hands except for me, but the the maps. I refused to give up and I continued to try teacher chose me anyway! I didn’t understand why my best all the time. she chose me out of so many hands waving in the air. I didn’t want to do it so I told her that there was Trying My Best and Participating NO WAY I was going to read and share my writing Finally, at the end of the year, I got my report card. with the class. I guess that made my participation After all my hard work, I finally got paid off and grade a P. received E’s! When my mom saw the results of my hard work, she was overjoyed and hugged me. I felt Effort great so I decided to try my best and participate more. HOMEWORK! A real nightmare. One day, I had My mom said that I did a good job, whilst her eyes homework for social studies, the subject I hated were full of joy. She stopped shouting at me and she most. The homework was easy, but still I just lazily never made me do extra assignments at home again. scribbled the answers. I didn’t color the maps and I 22

AD Astra Volume 6 December 2012

Braveness By Pam, Grade 5 Reflecting on Braveness

As I turned older and began to understand more things, I discovered that I was not brave because I was shy. Thankfully, though, everything began to change.

Developing My Braveness

Now I am in 5th grade and I have to speak in front of class like last year but I’m not struggling as much. With the help of last year, I am much more brave. On the very first day of Grade 5 I had to introduce myself and I wasn’t nearly as shy as I was in 4th Building My Braveness grade. I feel really proud because I am continuing to When I was in 4th grade at RIS, I had to speak in becoming more brave. front of the class and I was really shy because at my old school I didn’t have to speak in front of the Importance of Braveness class that much. I was so shy that I didn’t even want Now, almost half-way through 5th grade, I reflect to speak in front of my Thai class! I was really shy back to 4th grade and I feel really proud of myself but with the support of my teacher and classmates, because I am brave. I now know that being brave I finally spoke in front of the class and it wasn’t as is really important because if I grow-up not being scary as I thought it would be. I’m still shy now but brave and have to present something important, I I can speak in front of the class. Slowly, I’m starting might struggle and I might not get a job or another to become brave. opportunity.Being brave is really important so I am happy and proud of myself for having learned to be brave!

Math Competitions in the Middle School! Submitted by: Mr. Rob Ledlie (MS Math HoD)

hroughout the year, Middle School math students have two opportunities to challenge themselves by participating in American math competitions. Math competitions are a great way for strong math students to challenge themselves and for all students to gain exposure to the wider world of mathematics.

Open to 100 Middle School students, the American Mathematics Competition (AMC 8) is held annually in November. RIS has participated in this competition for many years, and our students have received excellent scores, including a nearly perfect 24 out of 25 last year. This competition is open to all MS students.

The American Scholastic Mathematics Practice tests are available through the Art of Association (ASMA) competition is an ongoing Problem Solving Wiki, linked on math teachers’ assessment held the second week of every month websites. from October until March. Open to a group of 40 Grade 8 students, this monthly test, administered during the lunch break, is comprised of seven questions. High scorers for the year are recognized in April. AD Astra Volume 6 December 2012

he Grade 8 Science Instrument Project challenged us (Ms. ZM’s Grade 8 students) to make new instruments through concepts and modifications. The project included four main goals: - create the concept of making a new instrument - build the instrument - modify/improve the instrument - present our instruments to an audience

To show you how fun and challenging this project was, I will outline the steps we took:

1. We discussed the project and created a rubric as a

class to understand and outline how we would be graded on it. 2. We then brainstormed ideas for an instrument. 3. We conceived a concept for our instrument. 4. We then shared the concept with the class and got feedback from our classmates and teacher. 5. We shared our final revised concept with Ms. ZM for her approval before starting our journey into creativity, sound waves and music! 6. At home, we constructed our instruments, then showed the class the first version. We gave each other feedback on how to make it better,

AD Astra Volume 6 December 2012

such as how to structurally improve the instrument or tweak it to produce a stronger sound. 7. We displayed our improved instruments to the science room and took a “museum walk” to share comments on our classmates’ inventions and make suggestions for improvements. At the end of the museum walk we wrote reflections. 8. Using our peers’ comments and suggestions, we had the opportunity to modify/improve our instruments. 9. Once we finished modifying our instruments, we created a presentation to explain the steps of the project, the sound it produced, what contributed to that sound and what we learned. We also had to play a tune to demonstrate the amazing sounds out instruments could produce! 10.Finally, we presented our instruments to the class, with our PowerPoint (or movie) and played a song on it. We also sent a final reflection of the project to Ms. ZM. I personally found this project interesting for how we could build our instruments and all of the creative ideas my classmates had. The most interesting part of the project was to present our instrument to the class while everybody in the room judged how well you did (in a good way of course).

By Pongsatorn Kaewngam, MS Thai Teacher

rade 7 Thai Language and Culture students learned about the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) throughout the first quarter. They were encouraged to explore the ASEAN countries by reading on their own from selected ASEAN learning resources, including websites, books and magazines. For the end of unit project, students collaborated on creating online mind maps based on what they learned from their individual research. The project required students to exhibit 21st century skills and the RIS ESLRs of complex thinker, life-long learner, collaborative contributor, and digital citizen. Moreover, students showed the spirit of caring by supporting the ASEAN polo shirts fundraising campaign and leading the MS ASEAN Day on Wednesday, October 17. On this day, students shared their knowledge and experience of ASEAN studies with all MS students, as part of the Cultural Week celebration.

It is ASEAN day, when we learn, teach and play. We visit table displays to marvel, where the ASEAN countries are labeled. Each country has its own special thing, for example some have a royal king. Each country is wonderful and they are also very successful. We love ASEAN day and wish it was celebrated everyday!

e think that MS ASEAN day was a day to remember. Although it was hot and chaotic, the experience was worth the time and effort. I remember friends, teachers and parents checking out at our booth, asking us challenging questions, yet in the end, we pulled through it smoothly. We had fun and the experience taught us the importance of presenting what weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve learned to a wider audience, outside just the classroom. In addition, the ASEAN project taught us to manage our time and work cooperatively with others. AD Astra Volume 6 December 2012

By Nichapa Srisuk

rade 10 Thai Studies students recently had the exciting opportunity to draw connections between contemporary Thailand and Thai history and literature, when they invited guest speaker Prof. Doctor Bung-Aorn Othakanont to share her knowledge of Thai Society During Pre & Post World War II. The lecture took place in conjunction with students reading the The Four Reigns or Si Phaen Din Vol.2, by Kukrit Pramoj, which has been a vital component in enhancing students knowledge of Thai traditional values, palace life, and Thai society through the disturbances of World War l, the Palace Revolution of 1932 and World War ll. Fortunately, Grade 10 student Kirin Techawongtham (Saai) shared that her grandmother has lived through four reigns, much like the main character in the book. Her grandmother, Prof. Doctor Bung-Aorn Othakanont, kindly agreed to share her expertise and visited RIS to meet with students and describe changes to her lifestyle with each shift in reign from Rama 6 to Rama 8. The students were fascinated by several aspects of the past and enjoyed learning about Thai society history. Students brought Thai desserts and drinks and prepared gifts for thanking our guest speaker. 26

AD Astra Volume 6 December 2012

Mr. Paiwarin Khao-ngam

S.E.A. Write Award 1995, Contemporary Poetry “Banana Tree Horse” Meet the Author is one of the programs under The Read for Life Project, which aims to promote Thai literacy and an interest in reading and writing, by giving students direct access to famous Thai authors and scholars who will share their personal stories and offer writing tips. We believe that the connection established between authors and students will bring the process of reading and writing to life and encourage students to read, write stories, practice the art of illustration, and establish their places in a reading and writing world. Revised by: Parkin: (Billy) Sunchindah Composed by: Soravut: (Sea) Maskulrath

n Friday of November 17, the IB Thai Language and Literature students were honored to host Mr. Paiwarin Khao-ngam’s visit on campus. Although students were on a tight schedule due to Sports Day, IB Thai students managed to attend on time and listened with eagerness and excitement. Mr. Paiwarin’s award winning poetry anthology titled “Ma Kan Gluay” or “Banana Tree Horse” features the different viewpoints about the city of Bangkok, expressing emotions and feelings about our nation’s capital. As the seminar was carried out, Mr. Paiwarin was able to give his audience primary knowledge about what inspired him to write such ironic poems about his life in Bangkok. Even though the session faced a minor time constraint, the students still managed to squeeze in every question concerning intricate details of certain sections from various poems in the anthology. As the event came to a conclusion, Mr. Anonth Collaco, our school manager greeted and thanked Mr. Paiwarin for attending and intriguing us all with his knowledge. Along with that, Mr. Anonth Collaco also donated a generous amount of funds for Mr. Priwarin in order to encourage him to continue writing authentic poetry for a purpose of promoting literacy and appreciation of Thai culture.

“Mr Paiwarin is someone that I really respect. I believe that his poems are second to none from Shakesperean literature. When I asked him a question, although he did not really answer my question directly, I can feel his passion and love for poetry through his answer. He has combined art into language and turned something boring into something that is full of life. I am also impressed in how he has prepared a poem and read it out loud during his visit. His poem means something much more than just words because it reflects the Thai society in a way that us, city people, can understand.” Pramon Karnchanapimonkul (Pop) “Mr. Paiwarin proved to be a great source of insight. His life stories and personal experiences demonstrated his unyielding attitude and outlook on life. He is a model figure of tenacity. I learned not only literary information but also the hardships of those residing in rural areas. Personally, I found him to be a very outspoken individual, one who left behind a very important anecdote dealing with morality. All in all, this event was beneficial to me both as a student and as a learner; witnessing and listening to the writer in flesh contributed to a more lucid understanding of Mr. Paiwarin’s poems.” Sangtawun Miller (Sang) AD Astra Volume 6 December 2012

Welcome all students and teachers to participate in friendly competitions!

Ms. Annie and Ms. Manuela helped each other dress in Joong-ka-ben.

Grade 12 students Mickey and Ya won first place in the Ms. Daroonwabâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s talented students Bank and Pud performed the wooden sword play. competition to walk on coconut shells. 2

AD Astra Volume 6 December 2012

Overture with the long-drum parade with Mr. Chaowalit’s Grade 12 Thai students

IB Year 2 students performed the cultural dance “Lao Kra Thob Mai” to contemporary songs and dance choreographed by Kru Yui Nichapa.

A HS rock band (Boom, Earth, Paen, Pud, and Pun) performed a blend of Look-tung and pop songs.

s part of Thai Cultural Week, the High School Thai Department held a special Thai Day on October 18. The objectives of the day were to celebrate Thai culture and enhance students’ and teachers’ understanding of the culture through participation in activities and games. The HS breezeway was decorated in the style of a temple fair, adorned with flags, student posters and banana leaves. Volunteers ran booths, where students and teachers were introduced to short lessons on various aspects of Thai culture, such as how to wear the Joong-ka-ben, how to cut a banana leaf to form a toy gun, and how to walk on a coconut shell as a game. The crowd was also enthralled by student-teacher competitions on wearing traditional clothing and playing traditional games. In addition, the Khon class presented performances, including Muay Thai and Rum Gratob Mail, Thai Day has been a tremendous success in fascinating audiences and exhibiting Thai culture. AD Astra Volume 6 December 2012

n Tuesday November 13, the Thai Native Grade 11 visited the most significant interactive museum of Bangkok on Ratchadamnoen Klang Road, near Wat Ratchanadda, called Rattanakosin Exhibition Hall. This is an interactive self learning centre with state-of-the-art multimedia technologies giving information on history, arts and culture of the Rattanakosin era (since 1782). In a renovated building, there are altogether 9 exhibition rooms each representing a part of the grandeur of Rattanakosin, the capital of Thailand.

Sarut:

The trip was awesome and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s my first trip in this school and one of the best field trips so far. I learned a lot of cool stuff about Thailand and I hope we could do it more frequently. 0

AD Astra Volume 6 December 2012

Students also enjoyed Loha Prasart, or the metal pagoda, located nearby the museum. It is the third brazen palace in existence, modeled after the earlier one in India and Sri Lanka. The amazing architecture is crowned with 37 spires of cast iron (black oxide).

Advanced technologies - such as presentation devices, models, four-dimensional multi-media technique, multitouch and multi-media animation technologies- are used in presenting the exhibitions about Rattanakosin City through interactive self-learning devices.

Bright-Sorrawis:

This Thai field trip was enjoyable! Rattanakosin gave us a good educational understanding about historical Thailand. Everything was well prepared.

Ploy Phurisa:

I really enjoyed this field trip! We ate lots of traditional Thai snacks and gained lots of knowledge about Thai history and culture. It was a very valuable opportunity to know more about our ancestors, which we canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t solely experience in class. Our Thai teachers really worked hard to make this trip possible in the most memorable way. And it turned out extremely awesome!!!

Gear:

This trip was extremely fun and enjoyable. In addition, we discovered tons of new knowledge from this field trip. Moreover, teachers took good care of us. This is one of the best field trips I have ever had. AD Astra Volume 6 December 2012

DAy oF THE DEAD Middle School Spanish Class Celebration Written by Harshita 8-2, Drimik 8-5 and Don Waltero

his November in Spanish Class, we celebrated Day of the Dead. The Day of the Dead is celebrated throughout Mexico on November 1st and 2nd. In Spanish, Day of the Dead translates to, “Dia de los Muertos.” Mexicans celebrate this colorful festival in many ways. They do it to honor their family members who have passed, and make the family members feel as if they are home again with their offerings of food and drink. In our Middle School Spanish class, we decorated skulls, made altars for our beloved ones who have passed, and decorated a bulletin board outside the Spanish room 411. On the 1st of November, people celebrate the spirits of the small children, Los Angelitos, and on the 2nd November they honor the spirits of the adults who have passed away. 2

AD Astra Volume 6 December 2012

During this festive celebration family members make food, create altars, and put out offerings or things for the family members who passed away. They place these items on the altars to make the spirits feel as if they are at home and enjoy the earthly delights. The reason they celebrate is to remember friends and family members who have moved onto a higher place. In Mexico the people go to the graveyard, clean it, and later decorate it with lots of flowers, especially Marigold flowers. It’s to be said that people have been practicing this holiday for at least 3,000 years! We were happy to be a part of this tradition and learned a lot about Mexican culture and beliefs.

Japanese Culture: yUKATA and BoN-oDoRI

By Megumi Furuya

n October 16th, the atmosphere in our Japanese class was unusual. I looked at the table, and saw yukatas with different kinds of designs. Megumi Sensei started the class by introducing Ms. Rika, who taught us about different kinds of kimonos. We learned about kimonos for single and married women. Megumi Sensei also taught us how to wear the yukata for both women and men. After we all tried on the yukata, with Megumi Sensei and Ms. Rika’s help, we learned how to dance the Tokyo Bon Odori. These activities were very interesting, and we all learned new things about the Japanese culture. Nat (HS Japanese 4)

The cultural activities in Japanese 1 exceeded all my expectations. I’ve never been immersed this deeply into traditional Japanese culture. The traditional dress is very pretty and well made. Our dress, as men, was much easier to put on, while the women’s dress seemed way At first, I thought the yukata was easy to put on, without more complicated. Aki (HS Japanese 1) requiring many steps. Turns out it was the opposite! Putting on a yukata requires many steps, and they’re not easy to remember. We had to be careful with little details Wearing a yukata is big challenge for us, especially for of the procedure, or else we’d be wearing a yukata of a us foreigners. Despite excellent instruction on how to dead person. It was difficult to put on, even with the help wear the yukata, we still struggled. In fact, Rika-san did of two Japanese guests, and our teacher Ms. Megumi. all the work for me! But I will try and try until I can wear But the result turned out well, and I think everyone the yukata by myself. Yukata is a very elegant and pretty looked good in the yukata. Even though everyone had dress, and we also looked good in it, especially Megumi a hard time, we had a little laugh together in class, and Sensei. I am looking forward to doing this again and enjoying another memorable moment! it was enjoyable. San (HS Japanese 2) Jean (MS Japanese Grade 8) AD Astra Volume 6 December 2012

By Bose Sourodeep (Rick), Grade 11- French Ab Initio class

n November 9, RIS students travelled to Horseshoe point for the annual French camp that involves students from Grades 7 - 12. The trip is a long awaited spectacle for many of these students since it involves fun-filled activities and places and new challenges, such as speaking in French for the whole two nights/3 days trip. We left RIS at 12:30 so that we could arrive and get settled in quickly for the activities that followed in the evening. Our advisors Ms. Beatrice and Mr. Olivier made sure that every detail of the trip was well planned out so that there would be no flaws or gaps. On the first day, we headed over to the conference room after settling into our own rooms to play a series of games. The teams were evenly divided so that the games would be more competitive and interesting. The games involved general knowledge questions about France and other games such as â&#x20AC;&#x153;draw and guessâ&#x20AC;? in which one player from each team draws some action and the other teams have to guess what it is. After the games everybody headed out to the dining hall where all the students and teachers had a sumptuous dinner and after which the first day of the annual French camp ended.

AD Astra Volume 6 December 2012

The next morning all the students were down for breakfast early so that they could prepare for the walk rally. The walk rally was probably the most interesting part of the trip since it involved different activities that involved stamina and teamwork in order to survive the games. The games were absolutely flawless as everything was exactly in place with perfect directions pointing to the places where the next station of games would occur. After the walk rally the advisors told us to get some rest and come down to the conference hall for the next set of games that would be held under the cooler temperatures that we desperately needed after a hot walk rally. The next set of games involved collaboration and teamwork because the advisors had given us the task to re-create the Eiffel tower with only a few pieces of newspaper and ten pieces of tape. The teams struggled to come up with a conclusive design, but in the end we managed to create a vertical tower that somewhat looked like the original model. After these set of games we were dismissed and given free time to play any sport that we would wanted to play under the expert supervision of the chaperones.

The evening brought a lot of fun as the students prepared performances and plays that brought entertainment to the evening as the students were nearing towards the end of the trip. The performances involved particular classes putting together songs and plays that they performed one by one according to their class. The highlights of the evening included the play by French 4, the IB French classes, songs by French 3 and songs arranged by the middle school and finally a rap presented by a combination of classes. As the evening ended all the students were quite sad as the camp neared to a close, but at the same time we were also quite happy to finally return home after a hectic weekend, jam-packed with activities. As we had to return to RIS the next day, we took group pictures and had plenty of fun talking about the activities that took place during the camp. Thus the annual French camp of 2012 ended on a high note and I am sure that we are waiting for next year so that we can embark on a new journey and fill it with new experiences and friends. AD Astra Volume 6 December 2012

By Blythe Rennie

n early December, MS Drama students presented not one but two plays in the PAC, under the director of MS Drama Teacher Blythe Rennie. Students performed the two short plays, “Girl in Da Hoodie” and “It’s Not You, It’s Me” to ES, MS, HS and parent audiences.

Girl in Da Hoodie With a wolf who looks like he stepped out of The Matrix, a woodcutter who isn’t much of a hero at all, and a female protagonist who raps, wears skater shorts, and comes with her own gang of Hoodies - this is not your mother’s fairy tale. Even Grandma takes on a fresh twist as the head of the mafia who comes equipped with her own bodyguards - you’d better be careful if it’s her Bingo night. Girl in Da Hoodie, written by Sid River, is a modern take on the classic tale of good versus evil. Now it’s street-tough versus evil. Look out, Mr. Wolf!

AD Astra Volume 6 December 2012

Girl in Da Hoodie Cast: Lil’ Red - Daniela (grade 7) Mrs. Riding-Hood - Hannah (grade 8) Mr. Wolf - Maddox (grade 6) Grandmother - Mille (grade 7) Woodcutter - Teague (grade 7) Hoodies - Catty (grade 6), Lily (grade 6), Khaimook (grade 7), BaoBao (grade 8), Baimon (grade 8), Ploy (grade 8) Lil’ Peach - Annie (grade 8) Speedy Sue - Mimi (grade 8) Bodyguards - Justin (grade 7), Ernst (grade 7)

It’s Not you, It’s Me Maybe your girlfriend’s ex is a pro football player. (Just a little intimidating, right?) Or maybe you just don’t want to be interrupted while watching sports. (It’s the highlights!) Maybe you feel second-best to that other cute couple. (Just who do they think they are, anyway?) There are many reasons relationships come to an end. Whether your boyfriend is a Canadian secret agent or your girlfriend is a pathological liar, one thing is for sure: they are about to dump you. Exploring the painful art of breakingup through awkwardly comedic characters, this series of hilarious scenes are sure to make you feel relieved to not be on the receiving end of those 5 fatal relationship words: It’s not you, it’s me.

It’s Not you, It’s Me Cast: Ellie - Nacha (grade 7) Jack - Maddox (grade 6) Jacob - Ayush (grade 7) Catherine - Asta (grade 6) Sarah - Manaka (grade 8) Ben - Teague (grade 7) Ashley - Delaney (grade 7) Todd - Alangkan (grade 8) Thomas - Koushik (grade 8) Angela - Bella (grade 7) Gabriella - Agnes (grade 8) Mark - Maek (grade 7) Waitress - Gina (grade 7) AD Astra Volume 6 December 2012

By Pavla Poch

n Friday December 12, HS Fashion Design students had the opportunity to meet with fashion designer Len Nepomuceno, currently the Vice-President of the Fashion and Design Council of the Philippines. Len has dressed ambassadors of China, Finland, Sweden and the United States, for whom she creates beautiful couture evening gowns. The Fashion Design students have been working hard on their own designs in preparation for the end of the year Fashion Show in 2013, so this visit created a great opportunity for Len to give the students advice about the direction of their designs and encouragement to continue in the Fashion business. Len was very inspiring as she discussed her personal experiences in the fashion industry and the endless career possibilities for the RIS students whom wish to further pursue this career. In class, Len shared her 2012 collection, and brought in one of her couture dresses. In addition, the students received a sneak peek at what they can expect to see in the stores in 2014! As the students listened intently, Len explained that young designers need to have a passion for design. She encouraged the students to never stop learning about trends, to be open to new ideas and, of course, to hard work. After all, Fashion is her Passion!

AD Astra Volume 6 December 2012

ES STUDENTS ARE CLAy CRAzy!

By Andrea Marrinson

he Elementary School is crazy about clay! The fifth graders started the school year by constructing a very difficult clay project: clay bobble heads! 5th grader Pung Pond went above and beyond the requirements for the art project, and constructed a 3 piece clay shark bobble head riding a wave. (see photo on right)

Two after school EDP activities also focused on making things with clay. In the Beginners Clay EDP, students recently finished making realistic clay leaves and a clay pouch to hang on the wall. The Advanced Clay EDP has been busy with several clay projects, including creating a bowl from clay handprints, a big clay mouth, a flat fish bowl, and a 3D name plate.

AD Astra Volume 6 December 2012

S Art students displayed work in the St. Lukeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Gallery as part of the Eclectic Electives exhibition in November.

AD Astra Volume 6 December 2012

My first attempt on levitation. The shutter speed was set very fast (1/500) to capture myself in the air without any blur. The ISO was also high because with fast shutter speed comes less light. I took this photo with a camera stand, so I had to jump several times in order to get the perfect image. I applied an effect to the photo to create a Halloween theme.

Ing Grade 10-2

Vanessa, Grade 11

Peach, Grade 10

Kat, Grade 12

Jan, Grade 9 AD Astra Volume 6 December 2012

“The Guitar,” by Float

The sun shining through the window provided a nice contrast between light and dark when I took this photo. The subject and I play in the same band, and I took this photo while we were practicing. The background isn’t complicated, and the subject and his guitar are in focus. I really enjoy music and it was fun listening to him play when I photographed him.

“Before the Bell,” By Saint

“I took this picture of my friend on the way to class.”

“Face,” By Pop

“I like this photo because it looks 3-D with the face zoomed in with fine details. Also, the lines in the background create a design and the tree in the background reflects nature.”

“The Friend,” Jom

“In this portrait of a girl, the pale, colorless background suggests the model’s refined solitude. Taken at a distinct angle, the work mirrors her sense of individuality, the juxtaposition of contrasting shades of black and white add an improvisational mood to the overall picture.” 42

AD Astra Volume 6 December 2012

ART INSPIRES ART G

rade 8 Creative Writing students discovered inspiration for a descriptive writing assignment in the visual art reproductions hung in the halls of the Middle School.

I sat back on my comfortable sofa in the living room with a humongous pillow cushioning my back. I picked up my book from my favorite author, Nicholas Sparks, and continued reading from where I left off. I concentrated on every detail of the story, really into the romance of the couple. I stopped reading and ate a soft-baked dark chocolate chip cookie. I savored the bite of the soft dough, and the bitter-sweetness of the dark chocolate melting endlessly on my tongue. Then, I had a glass of Twinings Earl Grey tea. I sipped the tea and continued on reading happily as the male character asked the main female character out on a romantic date under the stars. --Inspired by Jean Honore Fragonard’s painting A Young Girl Reading By: Arsaya (Ant) Asavalarpnirundon, Grade 8

The pale blue sky was clear, without the dab of a cloud’s silkiness. A thin ray of ultra violet sun shone gently, creating a mild shadow on the cloudy grey wall. The ruby red door was smothered in a thick layer of dust, as if it were never touched. Next to the feathery, mustache-yellow curtains, a pair of misty sea-blue eyes, full of sorrow, peered out of the empty window, squeaky clean save for a smudge of fingerprints. Those eyes belonged to a young girl with silky apricot brown hair arranged in stupendous, yet light, curls. The serene female had pale skin, with no shade of rose pink, which clearly stated that she seldom went into the sunlight, or even received any vitamins from the sun’s rays. Behind the thick, bold layers of her mistress costume, with its lace and silk imported from Asia, slumped the thin, bony body of a girl. If anyone were to pass by, they might wonder why the girl is so thin, when she lives in such a luxury, privy to expensive meals, from roasted turkey covered in Italian salsa to a 5-foot tall molten chocolate fudge cake topped with an inch of pure whipped cream. A passer-by might think she suffered from a sickness; however, the truth’s a mystery in her lonesome heart. As the girl rubbed the fog on the glass window, she started to pant, which was normal for a girl like her, who barely moves throughout the day. The girl walked slowly across the cherry red velvet carpet. When she reached the doorway, she grasped the platinum gold doorknob, chilly from the Arctic air conditioning, and tried to turn it, but nothing happened. With a still face that hid sadness and boredom, the girl twisted the knob harder. Nothing happened. Draining all her energy, the girl slumped down on the multi-colored crocodile skin sofa and gasped for breath. Once she regained energy, she made her way to the thick glass window once again. “Freedom,” the girl mouthed as her eyes swelled up. Freedom was what she wanted. It was such a simple thing everyone else had. Why didn’t she? Was this the life she wanted? With luxuries but not freedom? No, not at all. Nobody could understand her. It was August in the city and everyone was outdoors having fun while it was just another normal day without any freedom for the girl. --Inspired by Edward Hopper’s August in the City By Patlapa (Baimon) Sompolpong, Grade 8 AD Astra Volume 6 December 2012

SINGING IN CHA-AM By Cat Elizabeth Bennett

n Thursday, November 8, High School choir students departed for Cha-am for the fall semester choir camp trip. Unlike the joint choir and band camp held last April, the November camp was for singers only. Also unlike the April camp, where singers learned only four songs in preparation for one concert, the Cha-am camp challenged singers to work through nine pieces of music in preparation for two upcoming concerts. During rehearsals, singers focused mostly on three pieces of music for the November 20 High School Choir concert. These songs included “Another Openin’” from the musical Kiss Me Kate, “Seasons of Love” from Rent and “Shake it Out” by Florence and the Machine. The November concert focus was musical theater and pop genres. Also, singers began to learn Christmas music for the December 12 Christmas Choir Concert in Godbout Hall. This concert included the elementary school glee club, the middle school choirs and high school choirs. For this concert, the high school singers began work on six songs. 44

AD Astra Volume 6 December 2012

Mook Kaekoon commented after the trip, “I loved how no one at the camp minded the fact that we practically spent most of our waking hours singing. To me, this choir camp was a perfect getaway where I got to do what I love without having to worry about anything besides music. I’m sure I wasn’t the only one who’d have loved to cherish that moment a little bit longer.” Busy as this trip might have been, students had many positive things to say. Some of the singers particularly enjoyed singing with a larger ensemble of 35 students while others had fun meeting new friends from other choirs who shared a love for singing. Ruj Mungkornthongsakun, a freshman new to choir, explained, “I discovered there are so many great singers in our school. It’s a great experience to get to work with them.” Eimon Myint, the choir president, noted, “Choir camp was an amazing experience. I met a lot of new people that

shared the same interests as me. We had a lot of practice on their own trip from November 22 - 24. This was the time, which made everyone feel a lot more confident first middle school choir trip held in some time, and the about our Fall Concert coming up in November.” young singers were equally excited about their camp. In anticipation to the November 20 concert, students Prior to the trip, Angela Kim, a Grade 7 choir member, reported feeling ready to perform after the camp commented, “I can’t wait to sing at a different rehearsals. environment! It will be so fun to meet the others!” April Karnchanacharoen explained, “I’m ready for the Wow-Wow Vorapanyasakul, a Grade 6 student, also concert. I have a feeling it is going to be super fun.” noted, “I’m really excited for choir camp. In elementary school we never had overnight trips, so I’m really Prae Samutsakorn noted, “I hope my friends will be looking forward to going to Cha-Am with my friends there at the concert and that it will be amazing. I am and having fun practicing the songs.” looking forward to it.” For the middle school trip, singers focused mainly on Nokhook Borvonvinyanant also added, “I’m so excited Christmas music as well as some Disney and popular about the concert so that we get to stay together again.” tunes. This trip also provided the young musicians with time to work on music fundamentals and vocal The middle school choir students also visited Cha-am technique. AD Astra Volume 6 December 2012

By Gerry Steiert

Season 1

he success story from Season 1 belongs to our Volleyball program and the combined efforts of dynamic husband and wife coaching duo Komson and Naiyana Penpoo. The Boys defended their #1 ranking at Canadian International School Hong Kong, and the Girls won the SEASAC Bronze Medal at Surabaya International School, Indonesia. Closer to home, our U17 Boys Football earned the BISAC Championship with Coach Sean McMahon.

Below is a complete wrap-up of Season 1 team sports.

September

Coach Dave Marrinson and 25 runners raced to ISB for the BISAC Cross Country championship but unfortunately the meet was called off mid-course due to lightning. 46

AD Astra Volume 6 December 2012

On Sept 29, Aquatics Coordinator Kevin Leinbach, fellow coaches Monika Koeglberger and Sayan (Mau) Chaiphikun and an enthusiastic group of parents cheered on the 12 swimmers participating in the Tiger Prawns swim meet.

Marrinson, Charoen Saendej and Jamie Dougherty, participated in the Bangkok Patana School Annual Fun Run.

october

U13 BISAC Team Tennis Boys, Pornpoj (Pot) Thanlawanich @ BPS Almost 40 high school students, Girls, Sorrachet â&#x20AC;&#x153;Armâ&#x20AC;? Uayporn, @ accompanied by adult supervisors David ISB

SEASAC Golf Championships Managers Walter Koertge and Joey Scott coached 14 golfers to defend the title at the Bangpakong Riverside Country Club.

Season 2 Teams & Coaches U19 BISAC Football Boys, Charoen Saendej @ HIS Girls, Praphoj Unpudsa @ NIST

Varsity Basketball: Girls, Charoen Saendej; Boys Raha Mortel U17 Basketball: Girls, Onsa Saleenuan; Boys Tim Mitchell BISAC U15 Basketball Boys, Raha Mortel @ ISB Girls, Ben Roth @ RIS

U19 BISAC Volleyball Boys, Komson Penpoo @ TCIS, BISAC U13 Basketball Silver Boys, Orestes Jackson @ HIS Girls, Noi Penpoo @ BPS Girls, Onsa Saleenuan @ SHB U19/U15 BISAC Water Polo BISAC U11 Basketball Coaches Kevin and Torie Leinbach Girls, Onsa Saleenuan @ ISB hosted this mixed team event @ Boys, Joe Guiao @ BPS RIS, Varsity Silver, U15 BISAC U13 Boys & Girls Tennis November Singles Pornpoj Thanlawanich @ BPS SEASAC Football Boys, Charoen Saendej @ UWC Girls, Praphoj Unpudsa @ TTS SEASAC Cross Country Coaches Dave and Andrea Marrinson SEASAC Volleyball accompanied 14 runners, evenly Boys, Komson Penpoo @ CDNIS split between boys and girls, to Alice Hong Kong, Gold Smith School in Kuala Lumpur. Girls, Noi Penpoo @ SIS Surabaya Indonesia, Bronze

Boys & Girls JV and Varsity Basketball teams competed in a tournament at EIS. Girls Touch Rugby: Varsity Sean McMahon; U17 Peter Baer RIS represented a full slate of teams for Varsity Basketball and Touch Rugby at NIST, and U17 Basketball and Touch Rugby at BPS. U15 Football: Boys, Komson Penpoo; Girls, Supachai (Golf) Suriyapattaratham U13 Football: Boys, Prapohj Unpudsa; Girls, Joei Janjira Khaosaard U11 Football: Boys, Joe Giauo and Wittawat (Guin) Jaotatit; Girls, April Slagle (continued...)

BISAC U17 Volleyball Boys, Joey Scott @ ICS Girls, April Slagle @ TCIS BISAC U17 Football Boys, Sean McMahon @ NIST, Gold Girls, “Joei” Janjira Khaosa-ard @ SHB AD Astra Volume 6 December 2012

(...continued from P.47) Aquatics coordinator Kevin Leinbach dove into this season with coaches Sathit Hongthong, Kritsana Thanpisitsakon, Monika Koeglberger, Matt Smith, Sayan (Mau) Chaiphikun and Juliane Rothan-Centers. Paul Robinson is back with our recreational cricket team this season. The U19 Tennis team is in full swing with an assortment of four coaches. Cheerleading continues under the guidance of Weerawaroon (Queen) Mavichak. We were privileged to have an excellent performance on the new Godbout Hall stage during our HS Spirit Assembly on Halloween. Thanks to all coaches, parents and supporters of Athletics at RIS! Go Phoenix!

AD Astra Volume 6 December 2012

By Jillian Nichols

OAL!!! This is what one of our own RIS Girls Varsity soccer player heard over and over again at the SEASAC soccer tournament hosted by Tanglin Trust International School in Singapore November 2-4. Our RIS Girls Varsity soccer team had an amazing win over the defending silver medalist holders from United World College in Singapore, but ended up placing 8th out of 12 teams. Our own junior Simran came out with gold, however, by winning the prestigious Golden Boot award. The Golden Boot award is an esteemed honor awarded to the player that scores the most overall goals in the 2 and a half day long SEASAC tournament. Out of all of the players on 12 teams from 5 different countries (Singapore, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Myanmar) our own RIS player Simran rose above the rest. Simran scored a total of 10 goals over the duration of the tournament, 2 goals more than the runner up from Bangkok Patana, who were the tournament champions. We are all very proud of Simran for bringing back the Golden Boot award to RIS, and look forward to seeing her score more goals in the future!

n behalf of the RIS volleyball family, I would like to say thank you for your generosity and the great support! Both varsity and JV teams performed exceptionally well and felt proud wearing the RIS uniforms. The rigorous practice sessions during October break really made a difference in our players. A dramatic improvement was quite evident among all players and team spirit was high going into the SEASAC, unlike a month ago at BISAC. We owe a lot to the coaches for their unwavering dedication and patience, always pushing the athletes to do better. New and improved game plans were tried, with some resulting in more confusion than the day before. But the team worked through it all together. We knew we were winners going into the competition.

Actually, what I’m most proud of is our accomplishments off the courts. Varsity Girls Volleyball won the SEASAC Sportsmanship Award as a team this year. I was surprised by this this until I started talking to parents, coaches, and players from other teams. They admired RIS players for our teamwork and cheerfulness. Though there’s a wide age gap, all the girls bonded very well and were very supportive of each other. We never made a player feel bad for losing a point. It was stressful on the courts but our team always looked like they were having fun. They all came out as winners. Our school’s culture fosters this unique blend of competitiveness and compassion in our athletes. That is something we can all be proud of.

Thank you to all the coaches and thank you to the administration for their support. AD Astra Volume 6 December 2012

RIS JV Football Team Reclaims BISAC Trophy By Sean McMahon

he football season is over and the RIS U17 team has been crowned BISAC Champions of 2012! What a fantastic feeling to have been part of this journey. I am very proud of the boys’ commitment, hard work and dedication to achieve this goal.

there would be no chance of us getting in the final when the whistle blew for full-time. That meant we went into extra-time with golden goal (whoever scores first wins). Three minutes and 27 seconds into the first half, Carlos Hellstern slotted in a low hard shot to go in the very bottom right hand corner of the goal, a fantastic shot that Saturday November 3 was a stressful day but worth it. sent us through to the final... We went into the BISAC tournament with 5 out 5 wins at home and only 1 loss away to ISB, so we knew we A final against ISB! had a team worthy of competition against schools like NIST, BPS, Harrow, Shrewsbury and ISB. Ten of the They had beaten the second place finishers of the top international schools attended the tournament. other group 3-0 to secure their place in the final. Our students had everything against them; we were officially After losing to ISB previously in the season we knew the underdogs, the steppingstone to ISB receiving the it would be a tough match. We faced them earlier in illustrious GOLD medals! the tournament and they beat us 4-0. A real confidence blow. That meant we had to play the top team in the other The first half kicked off in the final game of football this group, Harrow, which won the champions the previous JV team would ever play. Two minutes passed and ISB year. The match started and we outplayed them from scored a magnificent goal. My brain told my heart ‘Not start to finish, boosting our confidence. However, we again!’ but our boys kept their spirits high, worked hard could not score! After 3 shots hitting the crossbar and 10 and defended with honor. Then, just before halftime, shots saved by their amazing goalkeeper it looked like Sung Min dribbled past four players to thunder the ball

AD Astra Volume 6 December 2012

in past the keeper. The whistle blew for halftime and I told the boys, “The game starts now! That gold medal is waiting to be placed around your neck.” ISB came out fighting in the second half, putting our defenders under pressure. The whistle blew. It happens again…Golden Goal! ISB sent the ball through to their striker, who went one on one with Raichi, our goalie. Raichi made himself big and the striker kicked the ball wide past the post…a massive relief! Then almost immediately Raichi booted the ball up the field where Shane was being hunted down by the last defender. He was 22 yards away from the goal when the ball bounced and Shane smashed it on the half volley like a bullet. The keeper dove but the shot was pinpoint accurate and ripped into the net. The ISB boys fell to floor in agony of their defeat and the RIS boys sprinted over the field to surround Shane and celebrate Five minutes later they all had medals around their necks their most glorious of wins, getting revenge against the and Ruamrudee International School reclaimed the JV team that pitted them the underdogs. football championship trophy back after six years!

AD Astra Volume 6 December 2012

Grade 3 teacher Matthew Smith steps outside of his classroom to share his enthusiasm for lacrosse, a sport which is gaining popularity in Thailand. By Mathew Smith n three...1, 2, 3... King and Country!” These resounding words echo from our bounded huddle, cross the pitch and disappear into the crowded bleachers on a fiery, October morning. Due to the thunderous beating in my chest, I can hardly hear the outside world. My focus turns to the field. It is time. My band of brothers, cloaked in the colors of this nation, take to the green, ready to defend Thailand against those that seek what rightfully belongs to us. Our weapon of choice...the lacrosse stick.

“O

I was fortunate enough last month to take part in the inaugural Battles in Bangkok Lacrosse Tournament, held on October 20 at SCG Stadium. We battled for three separate trophies, and the supremacy of Southeast Asian lacrosse against arch rivals Singapore and Hong Kong. We couldn’t quite grasp victory against a spirited and skilled Singapore outfit, losing 6-7 in the tournament’s opening encounter. Despite this, the 11-6 win over Hong Kong in the day’s final event saw us crowned as tournament champions for the first time. In addition to the three international men’s games, the Battles in Bangkok hosted the firstever Southeast Asian international women’s game. It was played between Hong Kong and Team Lioness; a combined Thailand and Singapore team. Hong Kong came away with the spoils, but similar to the first men’s match of the day between us and Singapore, the game came down to sudden death overtime. The day was quite a spectacle, drawing more than a thousand fans from at home and across Asia, eager to

AD Astra Volume 6 December 2012

see the development of lacrosse in the Southeast Asian region. Even though we tasted success on the field, the day was more than just about winning trophies. It was a showcase of lacrosse... and what a showcase it was. There are two types of people in this world - those who love lacrosse, and those who have never played it. When I first picked up a lacrosse stick two years ago, I never dreamed that one day I would be playing for Thailand. Having grown up in Queensland, the game of lacrosse was as foreign to me as cricket is to America. The first time I saw lacrosse was in 1999 while watching the movie ‘American Pie’. Interesting...yes. But the thought of actually playing this game never once crossed my mind. Now, it has become the game that I love. Lacrosse has captivated me in a way no other game could. For those who don’t know, lax (as lacrosse is commonly called) is a popular sport played mainly in the US and Canada, not to mention dozens of countries across the Pacific, Europe, and Asia regions. It is a game of skill, athleticism and intelligence. Of course, speed helps, and size can be an advantage. However, I have learnt that lacrosse’s true value is that people of all sizes and shapes can not only play this sport, but flourish at it.

Unfortunately, I am now 30 years old, and as I get older, I understand that my body will slow down until I will once again be just a spectator on the sideline. That is why I cherish every moment I put on a helmet to play this game. It is why I cherish the friendships I have made here in Thailand

and across the world since I first picked up a lacrosse stick. It is also why I want to see more younger students in Thailand with a lacrosse stick in their hands, enjoying the thrills of this magnificent game. The Thailand Lacrosse Association has one simple motto - Grow the Game. I hope that through this article I have helped do that.

Like me, Thailand is also relatively new to lacrosse. Prior to 2010, this sport was nothing more than a distant game played by countries overseas. However, as a result of hard work, unbridled passion and steadfast dedication, the Thailand Lacrosse Association (managed by TLA President and founder Prantarit Nerngchamnong) has grown into a formidable figure in the world of lacrosse, particularly here in Asia. Any readers who are interested in giving lacrosse a go, you are more than welcome to join us. We practice on Tuesday and Thursday evenings, from 7:00pm to 9:00pm at Arena 10, Thonglor Soi 10. Contact myself at matts@rism.ac.th, or visit the Thailand Lacrosse Association facebook page at http://www. facebook.com/groups/ ThailandLacrosse/. Running onto SCG Stadium with my teammates is something I will cherish forever. AD Astra Volume 6 December 2012

By: Jillian Nichols & Shirley Gamble

long with the daily academic rigor required of an RIS student, many students have gone above and beyond by taking the school-wide ESLR of Service Learning to heart. Since the beginning of the school year, twelve High School clubs have been busy organizing activities and events to give back to the community and various charities in Thailand. These twelve clubs, along with the High School Student Council, have raised over 375,000 baht to at least 14 charitable organizations. The club leaders from the majority of these clubs shared what they believed to be their greatest successes over the past semester:

Amnesty Club:

Eco-Merits:

“We have met our goals by attending a successful trip, and educating club-members about human/elephant issues. We are proud that we were able to plant 500 new trees, help restore a dam that will provide water for wild elephants living within the area, raise awareness of the difficulty wild elephants go through, the need for more “green” in the world, and raise 10,150 baht that went towards purchasing the trees that we planted.”

“This past semester we have successfully invited a guest speaker to educate the students about the rights and raise awareness about the mistreatment of refugees.”

Canvas of Hearts:

“This semester we created our greeting cards from pictures drawn by students at Fr. Ray’s orphanage in order to raise money for the foundation. They will be on sale for the rest of December. As a new club, getting everybody together in the club is a difficult task and we have accomplished it. We have successfully overseen the greeting cards project and for that, we are proud of Global Issues: our achievements.” “We had an awareness workshop, and several bake sales that raised about 30,000 baht (we raised 120,000 baht last Chess Club: year) towards our goal of raising 200,000 baht to build a “We have succeeded in our latest competition, winning new library at the Childlife Orphanage in Maesai (we’ll be first place in the chess tournament and have also acquired going there in March). We also started an ES Enrichment more boards for our members to play.” Program after school on early dismissal days.” 54

AD Astra Volume 6 December 2012

hosted RISMUN VII, attended by more than 150 students from five different schools including over 80 from RIS.”

National Honor Society:

“The NHS has raised 14,500 THB in two days to give to the Good Shepherd’s Orphanage. We have also supported freshman in their academic pursuits and conducted Leadership Workshops to help the RIS Interact Rotary: “We have organized a successful service trip to Pattaya community. The club itself is more student-driven and (we were sponsored by CP and a medicine company to student organized this year.” donate a lot of things to the blind school and elderly home), and we’ve raised a total of 50,000 baht through the Pattaya service trip, selling t-shirts and the Rotary Carnival. We’ve also communicated with Habitat for Humanity and have started planning trips for next semester (one or two one-day builds as well as the big overnight build in March in Phitsanulok).”

LEo Club:

“We successfully organized the Dodgeball tournament, the Halloween Haunted House and raised approximately 40,000 THB that will be donated to the Bangkok School of the Blind, The Elderly to obtain cataract surgery, and to Habitat for Humanity. We were able to generate enthusiasm mostly from club members in the freshmen & sophomore classes and some seniors, and as a result, our first major fundraiser was very successful.”

Model Social Corporate Responsibility (MCSR):

Red Cross Club:

“The Red Cross club organized a very successful blood drive in October and raised educational awareness about Breast Cancer along with a total of more than 29,000 THB on “Pink Day” to support three Breast Cancer foundations: National Institute Thailand, Get in Touch Foundation, and the Queen Sirikit. Clinic lessons are also still taking place for club members and anyone else who is interested.”

Symphony of Life (SoL):

“We have met our club goal by raising almost 15,000 baht on “SOL Games Day” to support our activity of building check dams at Ratchaburi Province in December through the Baan Din Organization who helps us with the check dams and making “Salt Dirt” for the environment.”

“Model Corporate Social Responsible has met their goal for this semester. By the end of the year, we are expecting to raise a total amount of 200,000 baht for the construction of a water tank for a needy school. This semester, we have raised about 50,000 baht from t-shirt sales and our members have been very cooperative, helping sponsor an additional 40,000 baht. Being a new The HS Student Council: club, we are very proud of our accomplishments so far.” “The HS Student Council has helped facilitate a number of activities over the course of the semester including: New Student Orientation, Club Orientation, Culture Model United Nations (MUN): “We have met all our goals for this semester: we hosted Week, Spirit Week and Sports Day. The Student Council a very successful RISMUN, attended a good BKKMUN members are proud to have helped raise school spirit at BPS, and just returned from THIMUN Singapore. All along with encouraging the student body to fundraise in of the conferences were well attended by the students, the ENSURE Drive, The Vertical Marathon & the Baht particularly from freshmen and sophomores. We also wars which together raised over 155,000 baht.” AD Astra Volume 6 December 2012

n October, the MS and HS Student Councils held a fundraising competition to collect enough cans of Ensure Protein Powder to provide a yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s worth of nourishment for the children of the Camillian Home. Thanks to everyone who contributed!

By Amy Diefendorf, ES Counselor

AD Astra Volume 6 December 2012

he Elementary Junior Council in collaboration with the Elizabeth Library Student Assistants had a fundraiser in October for the Wildflower Home in Northern Thailand. These two student groups gathered children who wanted to give up their recess to make candy-grams, which were sold during milk break. A total of 6680 Baht was raised through the candy gram fundraiser.

he ES Junior Council collected 22,165 Baht for the Fr. Ray Foundation in Pattaya through a Santa photo opportunity fundraiser. A sincere thanks to all those who participated, including the ES Junior Council and our â&#x20AC;&#x153;secretâ&#x20AC;? Santa!

AD Astra Volume 6 December 2012

BLooD TyPE CRoSSES ALL BoUNDARIES By Sabrena Baiagern

hey say that “love knows no boundaries” and on October 16, 2012, the students, teachers, staff and parents at RIS proved this to be true. The school year’s first blood drive took place on that day and many regular donors as well as first-time donors came to donate blood. The Thai Red Cross staff was delighted to see many junior and senior students step up to make a donation. The students were not only contributing to a worthy cause, but they were also giving their classmates a great deal of moral support. There was laughter and smiling in the air! The blood drive also coincided with the “Welcome to the Wild, Wild West” dress up day for International Cultural Week at RIS. The Western (cowboy) attire that students and teachers were dressed up in helped ease some of the anxiety first-time donors were experiencing, thus bringing about a more relaxing atmosphere. The next blood drive is scheduled for Tuesday March 12, 2013. The Red Cross Club and Thai Red Cross hope to see as much enthusiasm from everyone eligible (ages 17 - 60) as we did in October. Come and join us and help make a difference in someone’s life!

AD Astra Volume 6 December 2012