SPH Lippo Village JS Eagle Eye Vol. 20 - June 2024

JUNIOR SCHOOL EAGLE EYE

SEKOLAH PELITA HARAPAN

Principal’s Message

Dear Parents,

As we reach the end of the 2023/2024 academic year, we praise and thank the Lord for His faithfulness, guidance, wisdom, and providence throughout this year. As a school, we are excited to witness the tremendous growth of our students, both as individuals and as part of the community. We pray that they will continue to progress in the coming academic year.

Through this newsletter, we will present various activities that students have engaged in during Term 4. You will witness their creativity, hard work, perseverance, as well as their struggles and challenges. I pray that you can see how much they have changed and progress this term. They are certainly not the same individuals who began this academic year back in August 2023, and we look forward to seeing how they will continue to grow in the years to come.

Lastly, let me take this opportunity to thank each and every one of you for your willingness to collaborate with us for your child’s growth and for the school as a whole. You have been a valuable member of our community, and we look

forward to more collaborations in the coming year. May you and your child enjoy the rest that the school break provides and may it strengthen your relationships as a family.

The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make His face shine on you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn His face toward you and give you peace.

Numbers 6:24-26 (NIV)

Ibu Yuniarti Setia Abdi Katu

by Ibu Angela Chandra

A Day at the Aquarium! Underwater Adventures:

As a culmination of our year's learning, we visited BXSea (Bintaro Exchange Aquarium). There, we got to experience marine life up close by touching sea animals, feeding fish, and even riding a boat. This hands-on adventure made the kids curious and excited. We also reviewed letters and learned new words by seeing different animals. It was a great time spent with friends and parents, creating lasting memories and helping us understand more about God’s creation, the marine life. This trip was both fun and educational, giving everyone a chance to explore and learn in a unique way.

Salute the Firefighters!

As K1 students learn about various helpers in the community, they had the privilege to not only meet and greet the firefighters in their neighborhood, but also to learn and experience the amazing job of a firefighter. The students held the hose attached to the truck, put on small-sized fire jackets, and climbed up the fire truck! Moreover, the friendly firefighters taught them fire safety and demonstrated how to put out fires. The students’ most memorable part of that day must have been getting to ride on the fire truck around school. Most importantly, K1 students learn how God equipped members of their community with great talents and called them to do wonderful things in the community. Salute to our brave and heroic firefighters!

by Ms. Sung Ji

Gifts of Plants The Beauty and

Plants play an important role in our lives. This term, K2 students have learned about what plants provide us. They give us food to eat, materials to create things, medicines to heal our bodies, and, most of all, allow us to appreciate the beauty of nature.

As we explored the aesthetics of plants, the K2 students had a wonderful opportunity to make flower bouquets for their moms to celebrate Mother’s Day. Ms. Andy taught them how to arrange flowers, and they enjoyed the process of trimming and preparing bouquets for their mothers. The K2 students looked very happy to give a bouquet to their loved ones and show gratitude to them. It was a memorable moment for our students to experience the joy of giving and the beauty of God’s creations.

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by Mrs. Lois Hamot

Need Water to Grow! Plants and Animals

The kindergarten students led the Junior School Assembly with great enthusiasm. Our K3 students delivered a delightful rendition of the poem “All Things Bright and Beautiful” by Cecil Frances Alexander. They came up with and performed fitting movements to accompany the poem. Their expressive movements and joyful performance brought the timeless verses to life.

Following their poem recitation, the K3s presented a skit displaying the life cycle of plants and butterflies. Dressed in adorable and colorful costumes, they transformed the stage into a garden, showing the stages of the life cycles. Their performances displayed their creativity and confidence, while emphasizing that God created plants and animals and highlighting the importance of water in their growth.

by Miss Roselyn P.

Sharing the Planet!

Grade 1 went on a field trip to Beth Shalom Farm in BSD on June 5th. This is one of the activities for their UOI lesson on how people use and value local environments in different ways. The students have been learning about (1) the resources of local environments, (2) different perspectives about using local environments, and (3) the factors that lead to conflicts when local environments are not shared well.

There were a variety of farm activities that the students saw and experienced, including planting and harvesting plants in the gardens. They also listened to a presentation about the different crops, plants, and vegetables that are raised and planted on the farm. It was a fun day outside with their farm hats on under the sun!

Sharing the Good News!

Throughout the year, our students have had the opportunity to learn about, connect with, and raise money for other students with disabilities. In this term, we had the opportunity to host Sang Timur’s students and celebrate Easter with them. Through arts and crafts, singing and dancing, and even an Easter Egg Hunt, our students had the opportunity to exemplify the gospel for Sang Timur’s students, while also learning how to build relationships with students with disabilities. Our students demonstrated compassion and kindness towards their students, and have demonstrated tremendous growth in learning how to interact with others with disabilities. They have shown not only their open-mindedness towards others, but also that the can be a light of the gospel to the whole world.

Variables!

During our recent unit of inquiry, our third-grade students delved into the realm of scientific experiments. They were taught to select an experiment, carry it out, observe the process, and grasp the concept of variables.

But what exactly is a variable? In a scientific experiment, a variable is any element that can be altered, controlled, or measured. By manipulating variables, students can see how these changes impact the experiment's outcome, aiding them in drawing conclusions and understanding cause-and-effect relationships. Some students changed or substituted their variables using different materials and quantities to test the success of their experiment. Through variables, they learn to question what happens when they substitute one element for another.

So, what's the model of the perfect substitute? Jesus serves as the ultimate substitute for sinful humankind. Being perfect, the Son of God and fully human Jesus served as the only one variable that can be changed in our place. As sinners, we deserve the punishment of death and separation. Jesus paid the price by taking the burden and judgement for our sins in his body on the cross; by his wounds we are healed (Isaiah 53). The shedding of His blood has forever purified and cleansed us from all transgressions. By God’s mercy, we are redeemed and granted eternal life.

by Ibu Irene Tjandramihardja

Sharing the Planet

In fourth grade, we conclude the academic year with a unit designed to instil in students a sense of responsibility and initiative towards environmental stewardship. "Sharing the Planet," delves into our collective duty to care for the Earth. Several environmental issues are explored. Throughout the unit, students adopt various perspectives, ranging from environmental scientists to fast-food restaurant owners. This approach facilitates a comprehensive understanding of the intricate network of obligations associated with environmental conservation. By recognizing the interconnectedness of all stakeholders, they are not only learning about the issues but actively engaging in shaping a more sustainable future for us all. Students discuss and reflect on the actions they can take to create solutions. A standout moment during this unit was a

presentation delivered by Mr. Shivan. He introduced advanced scientific methods for addressing plastic waste, which left a lasting impact on our students. As we continue our journey as global citizens, let us remember the lessons we learned in "Sharing the Planet" and strive to integrate environmental consciousness into our daily lives as part of our shared responsibility before God.

The Problem of Plastic Waste

“Indonesia uses 8 million tons of plastic a year and 5,000 garbage trucks are full of plastic every day! Today I learned about a company which manufactures biodegradable plastics. Normal plastic is often getting thrown out of car windows and ending up in rivers. Biodegradable plastic will decompose in five years compared with normal plastic that takes one hundred years.” - James

“It is interesting that plastic is made from oil and gases! Today I learned that biodegradable plastics decompose easier than normal plastic and take less time to disintegrate. I also learned that animals are dying because of the plastic waste that ends up in the ocean.” - Honey

The Reason We Should Act

“I want to reduce plastic waste because I want other people from the future generations to see animals that we see now. I don’t think it is fair for the future generations not to see the beautiful view and the animals that we see today. I think it is important to reduce plastic because we are destroying the environment which God made. It’s basically like you created something and then your sibling destroys it. Think about it, we are destroying Gods creation even though he made everything, it’s not fair.” - Aurelia

Ways We Can Take Responsibility

“I can reduce the plastic problem by recycling plastic products. I can also use reusable water bottles, because when we finish our drink, we can still reuse it.” - Ezra

“We can be responsible for our planet by choosing to reduce energy; like when you go to school or somewhere, walk or ride your bike. Second, we need trees to live so don’t cut down too many in our rainforests. Finally, always turn off the lights when you leave a room. Also, try to replace traditional light bulbs with fluorescent bulbs.” - Doyun

“If we don’t take care of the environment, our world will not be the same. We can all make a difference, whether a child or an adult. We can make a difference by recycling plastic bottles, using reusable lunchboxes, eco-friendly bags, and biodegradable plastics. God gave us the world and the responsibility to take care of it. Therefore, we should all work together to save the planet. We all have a part in this.” - Matthew

“Corals are God’s creation, and they are very beautiful. Corals are home for a lot of fish. Recently corals have experienced a condition called bleaching due to the the raise in temperature of ocean water. We need to take care of corals in the ocean by not cutting down trees. If we cut down trees, the trees will release the CO2 in the air. The CO2 and other gasses that are trapped in the atmosphere will make the the earth’s surface warmer when the sun shines through the atmosphere during the day. Another way to help the corals in the ocean is not to throw trash in the ocean because corals live well in clean water. We also need to tell people not to do illegal fishing in the ocean such as using dynamites or cyanate because they can kill the corals as well as the fish. Let’s work together to help the wonderful corals in the oceans. ” - Axel

Grade 5 by

Elika Wirawan

How We Express Ourselves

In this last quarter, Grade 5 completed the unit How We Express Ourselves. Students explored on the central idea that “Our experiences and imagination can inspire us to create” and inquired based on the three lines of inquiry “What inspires people to create (form)”, “How our needs and wants define our design (perspective)”, and “Factors people consider when creating a design (connection).” Students focused on Design this unit and learned from multiple guest speakers who are designers in different fields as well as different hands-on activities.

Throughout this unit, students learned about the different types of design. However, they specifically focused on product design where they were asked to create a product. In creating the product, students learned to use the design thinking process where they empathized with an audience, identified a problem to solve, and created a product solution to that problem. After creating a fully, functional product, they then presented a “shark-tank” pitch to the class where they persuaded the audience to invest in their product. They carefully highlighted persuasive reasons as to why their product is just that special! Look at the pictures attached to see how impressive their products were.

As a fun and educational highlight to start off this unit, students had the opportunity to create different products using wood with Krearture. Students safely tried out using different tools, such as a wood-cutting machine, a drill, and a nail gun, to assemble their product. They also got to personalize their products at the end. This sparked their creativity, and curiosity and excitement for design!

Ratna Putri

Appreciation Breakfast The Mentor

The Primary Years Programme (PYP) exhibition for sure made its way to be the highlight of Grade Six. With 45 students in this batch of Grade Six this year, it would have been challenging for homeroom teachers to assist this large number of students, each with a unique topic. Teacher mentors who dedicated their time to monitor progress, offer ideas, and challenge each student have been extremely helpful in ensuring that each student had the support they needed. As an appreciation to the Mentors, Grade 6 students held a Mentor Appreciation Breakfast on May 15, 2024, highlighting the key role of Mentors.

The Mentor Appreciation Breakfast, a long-awaited event, was not randomly scheduled in May. It was strategically planned to coincide with Indonesian National Education Day, a day that holds great significance in our educational journey. This event was Grade Six students' heartfelt appreciation to the Junior School teachers and school staff who have been instrumental in their academic and spiritual growth throughout their Junior School years.

In the event, all sixth graders were involved in one way or another. Some served the mentor teachers or staff, danced, played music, sang, told jokes, or delivered food to teachers and staff who could not attend the breakfast.

Thank you, teachers! Thank you, SPH staff!

A student serving her mentor

Some mentors taking time to pose

One of the students' performances

Moms who made this event happen

People working behind the screen

A student serving his mentor

Beyond Numbers: The Role of Mathematics in the PYP Curriculum

You've heard your children say, "I don't like Math!" or "Math is hard!" in many situations. However, mathematics is beautiful, and we should treat it like other subjects like language, reading, and writing. We need to learn and study it to improve. PYP believes "All students deserve an opportunity to understand the power and beauty of mathematics (Mathematics scope and sequence, p.1)." Mathematics supports Inquiry, and it should not be viewed as a series of facts and equations to be memorized only but as a way of thinking and analyzing the world around us to solve problems.

How Children Learn Mathematics

There are at least three stages in learning mathematics. Children will construct meaning in the first stage based on their experience and understanding. In this stage, students would benefit from interacting with manipulatives and engaging in conversation with others. They are learning to make sense of new ideas, interpret them to their understanding, and connect with their learning. In the second stage, children will transfer the meaning into symbols or notations. In this stage, students should have the opportunity to describe their understanding using their own method of symbolic notation before transferring them into conventional mathematical notation. The third stage is when children apply the ideas with understanding. In this stage, children are demonstrating and acting on their knowledge. They can independently select and use appropriate symbolic notation to process and record their thinking. As students work through these stages, we need to recognize the significance of play and exploration, especially for younger students.

Constructing meaning

Transferring meaning

Applying with understanding

Program of Inquiry and Mathematics Strands

In PYP, we believe that mathematics should be taught in the relevant, realistic context of the units of Inquiry. It can be taught inside or outside the inquiry program, and it can be approached based on guided Inquiry. The mathematics components in PYP are arranged into five strands: data handling, measurement, shape and space, pattern and function, and number.

Math in SPHLV

This year, SPHLV is adopting Math in Focus to our Math program. Math in Focus is based on the Singapore Math approach, which has gained international recognition for its effectiveness in developing students' mathematical proficiency and problem-solving skills. The program is adapted from the original Singaporean series and aligned with the Common Core State Standards. It emphasizes problem-solving, critical thinking, and concrete-pictorial-abstract learning progression. We hope that by adapting Math in Focus into our curriculum, we aim to enhance the mathematical proficiency and conceptual understanding of our students, preparing them for success in mathematics and beyond.

Math in Focus also supports the use of manipulatives, visual models for understanding, and differentiated learning programs.

Besides Math in Focus, we also have many subscriptions that enhance Math learning for our students. Some of them are IXL, BrainPOP, and Xtramath. They help students understand and practice math facts, concepts, and skills.

Learning mathematics is not bounded at school. Mathematics is everywhere. We can help build these concepts, understandings, and skills at home. Here are some of the strategies that you can do at home in general mathematics skills:

Support at Home

Monitor daily work and be aware of the content being studied 1 2 3

Provide activities that enrich & relate mathematics to daily life Check your child's assignment list daily

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Use computer software or online games or apps to practice math skills at home (IXL, Xtramath, math playground, etc.)

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Provide some math activities at home.

There are many other ways to help your children with a specific topic. For example, in helping with the measurement unit, you can ask your children to set a kitchen timer and use math language such as "heaviest," "least," "halves," "more," "about," and many more. In geometry, you can also help them cut, fold, and find the corner, diagonal, symmetry, etc. So, math is fun, and we all are responsible for helping our students enjoy learning.

Reference: Bobowski, K. (2023, December 18). Parent strategies for improving their child’s math. Teach. Learn. Grow. https://www.nwea.org/blog/2018/parent-strategies-for-improving-their-childs-math/ International Baccalaureate Organization. (2018). Primary Years Programmee: Mathematics Scope and Sequence. Peterson House, Malthouse Avenue, Cardiff Gate.