Author: Cebu International School

MHS Principal’s Corner

by Mr. Benjamin Martin, MHS Principal

Does the Early Bird Really Catch the Worm?
Many of us have heard the popular phrase that “the early bird catches the worm” and have been told that waking up earlier will lead to more productivity. But what does the data show? Is this actually true? In fact, in addition to the research that highlights that students who attend their classes having an advantage over their peers who miss classes, (Gershenson et al., 2017; Kirksey, 2019; Klein et al., 2022), the results are quite clear that these “early bird” students do in fact have an advantage down the line.

We see this firsthand with our own students on their report card grades and with their performances on their IB exams. But our internal data also aligns with the studies that have shown that students who wake up earlier have higher scores in university and this is aligned with the data that shows that people who wake up early have a higher average salary and better mental health.

We know that waking up early is not easy. It is difficult for all of us and because of the sleep cycles of adolescents, ideally school could start later for them (and for us educators!). Unfortunately, we also know that most companies need their employees at work earlier and that most children would be unsupervised at home or not have the transportation they need so most schools must start early in the morning. We know that by living in Asia, large populations are a given and many people means many people commuting, which leads to traffic congestion, which means an even earlier start to the day. I have previously lived and worked in Seoul, Ho Chi Minh, and Bangkok and had long commuting times.

However, waking up earlier is possible for us to do and forming these habits will lead to future success over time for our students. We appreciate your assistance in making sure that your child wakes up early and has the transportation they need to arrive just after 7:00 am so they are fully awake and ready to learn at 7:30 am. As the data proves, this will result in better scores and better health. It isn’t easy to be an “early bird” but it does make a difference in putting ourselves in the best positions possible to be more successful, happier, and healthier!

Upcoming events of note

• Sept 15: HAD1: AM only / Faculty in service day (PM) – no classes in PM
• Sep 19: CIS Annual General Membership Corporation Meeting
• Sep 29-30: MUN Locals
• Oct 2 – 6: October break (School holiday)

Please refer to the CIS Event Calendar for the complete calendar of school events.

Early Years

by Ms. Aimee Valenzona, Early Years Teacher

Empowering Students: Co-Creating Classroom Routines and Essential Agreements

In the Early Years, we explored the concept of routines and their significance in our daily lives. We seized the opportunity to explore the meaning of the word “routine” and encouraged our students to reflect on the similarities and differences between their home and school routines.

Together as a class, we expanded our list of routines by adding more examples. The students actively participated in this process, sharing their own experiences and insights. To further deepen their understanding, we engaged in a sorting activity where we categorized these routines into three groups: home routines, school routines, or both. What made this activity truly special was the valuable feedback and opinions shared by our students. They expressed their thoughts on where these routines are established and whether they are applicable at home, in school, or both. This discussion not only fostered critical thinking skills but also empowered our students to take ownership of their own routines.

By reflecting on their daily routines and recognizing the similarities and differences between home and school, our students are developing a greater understanding of the structures that shape their lives. The process of reflecting and categorizing these routines is helping them build a sense of ownership and agency over their routines, empowering them to make informed choices and establish positive habits.

Our students took charge of their learning environment by actively participating in the co-construction of a 3-step circle time routine. In small groups, they collaborated to create a routine that will guide their behavior during circle time. Their enthusiasm and commitment were evident as they even marked their thumbs on an agreement sheet to show their dedication.

Grade 6: MYP Science

by Ms. Haydee Montero, MYP Science Teacher

How does the planet work?

To know how the planet works, the Grade 6 students explored the two important movements: rotation and revolution in relation to how day and night and seasons are experienced on Earth. To do this, a 3D Simulation Model of the Earth, Sun, and Moon was made.

The Earth rotates on its axis every 23.9 hours, defining day and night for people in different parts of the globe. This axis of rotation is tilted 23.4 degrees away from the plane of Earth’s orbit around the sun, giving us seasons. Whichever hemisphere is tilted closer to the sun experiences summer, while the hemisphere tilted away gets winter, as the Earth revolves around the sun. Meanwhile, as the Earth revolves around the Earth, the Moon completes each 27.3-day orbit around the Earth as well. Both Earth and the Moon are moving around the Sun.

Here’s the takeaway for some students from the activity:

Student Summer Program Experiences

Robert, Grade 12: Engineering Innovation Program at Johns Hopkins

Participating in the Johns Hopkins University’s Engineering Innovation Program has been an unforgettable summer journey. The program has gifted me cherished moments of hands-on discovery and camaraderie.

My favorite memories from the program include the spaghetti bridge building project which was the final project of the whole program. My group won 3rd overall in the whole program when our spaghetti bridge was able to hold 20 kg of weight. Another memory I’ll never forget was seeing the space shuttle discovery, the most decorated of the shuttle fleet.

Through immersive workshops, I honed skills in coding, problem-solving, and prototyping, which I can’t wait to apply in future endeavors. Moreover, the bonds formed with fellow participants turned into enduring friendships, enriching both academic and personal aspects. This experience has not only widened my engineering perspective but also left me with cherished memories and connections that will persist far beyond the summer.

College/Careers Counselor Corner

by Ms. Jenny Basa, College/Careers Counselor Corner

EducationUSA Visit (September 1, 2023)

DATE

Sept 2 Saturday

Sept 3 Sunday
Link to register
11:00AM – 4:00PM (PH time)
Live sessions schedule
List of institutions

Study in Japan Virtual Fair – Chat directly with Admission reps and talk to students in Japan

Friday, September 8, 8:00-9:00 p.m. ET
Link to register

Wednesday, September 20, 8:00-9:00 a.m. ET
Link to register

Join us and learn about Brown University, Columbia University, PrincetonUniversity, and the University of Pennsylvania!

Admissions representatives will hold a virtual public information session for students and families about their respective universities and the highly selective college admissions process. Topics will include: academic programs, campus  activities, admissions policies, financial aid, and international student life.

September 12
Tuesday
9:00 – 9:40AM
Canteen Annex
Link to sign up

NYU Abu Dhabi – Learn about the NYU experience, application process, programs and scholarship offered from the admissions rep.

September 27
Wednesday
9:00 – 9:40AM
Canteen Annex
Link to sign up

Hong Kong University of Science & Technology – an Info session on the application process, programs and scholarships at HKUST.

September 29
Friday
9:00 – 9:45AM
Canteen Annex
Mini Study in Canada Fair

Study in Canada –  Meet with  university reps from various institutions from Canada and talk to them about the application process, programs and other offerings.
(List will be published next week)

SAT Update

Test Date	Deadline for Registration, Changes and Regular Cancellation
August 26, 2023	August 11, 2023
October 7, 2023	September 22, 2023
December 2, 2023	November 17, 2023
March 9, 2024	To be confirmed
May 4, 2024	To be confirmed
June 1, 2024	To be confirmed

To register for the SAT, you may click on this link.  If you need assistance or have any questions, please feel free to email Ms. Jenny Basa at jbasa@cis.edu.ph.

Touch Rugby Series

Admin News

by Dr. Gwyn Underwood, Superintendent

As we finish up our third full week of school, our students are well and truly into their learning units. As they advance to more challenging applications, their learning may lead to more difficult concepts or applications that cause them to struggle a bit. This is all part of the learning process and will help provide valuable learning opportunities.

Rather than give up or allow stress levels to build when things are getting difficult, our aim is to help students build their skills to overcome the challenges so they not only learn the concepts and applications, but also develop their approaches to learning (ATL) skills and stress-coping strategies.

Parents, we encourage you to ask your children about their learning each day. This time is a good opportunity to ask about what they have learned about how to learn, not just about the content or skills they may have covered. As you read the classroom articles below showcasing our early years and Grade 7 this week, see if you can identify some of the behaviors and mindsets we are working on developing while they learn. Then ask your own child/ren about how they might develop these as well!

Have another restful long weekend and enjoy our Monday holiday (National Heroes Day). 

Upcoming events of note

• Aug. 28:  National Heroes Day (Public Holiday)
• Aug. 29: Parent Coffee Meeting (CIS Annex 7:30am)
• Sept. 15: HAD1: AM only / Faculty in service day (PM) – no classes in PM
• Sept. 19: CIS Annual General Membership Corporation Meeting

Please refer to the CIS Event Calendar for the complete calendar of school events.

Early Years: Developing Caring Attributes and Social Skills

by  Ms. Ann Codoy, Early Years Class B Homeroom Teacher

Social Emotional Learning (SEL): Seesaw Learning Journal

We begin each day together in circle time by exchanging greetings, checking the calendar, and reviewing our day’s schedule. This week, we started showing our youngest learners their Seesaw learning journals so they are aware that their progress is being documented and that their parents can also view their work using the Seesaw app. The Early Years students were excited to share their recordings and photographs with the class. This helped them develop self-confidence, self-esteem, and a sense of well-being as they recalled what they did when the pictures were taken. One of our Information and Communication Technology (ICT) goals for the first semester is for students to be able to use media and technology to share their learning and introducing them to the Seesaw app is one way to achieve this. 

IB Learner Focus: Caring

This week, we also started talking about what it means to be “caring”.  We listened to a story entitled “Kindness is My Job.” It tells us about a child who uses magic words, waits for her turn, includes others, and follows the five respects.  Upon watching the story, some of the students reflected on themselves and exclaimed, “I do that!”, “I want to do that,” and “I also help others.” Caring is one of the ten IB Learner Profiles that students should embrace while following the Five Respects.

Our young learners are beginning to demonstrate their caring attributes in their daily interactions with each other. We try to capture these moments and show them photographs of themselves demonstrating kindness to their classmates and teachers. Doing this made them become more aware of how caring and compassionate they are.

One example was when one of the Early Years students bumped his head on one of the tables during circle time and his classmates responded to him right away by asking him how he was and how he was feeling. Then, his classmates decided to give him a group hug to make him feel better. Another example was when one of the Early Years students asked if anyone could accompany him to get his wet tissue and immediately, one of his classmates volunteered to go with him. These scenarios are just some of the many ways in which our youngest learners have been developing their social skills and demonstrating their caring attributes.

Grade 7 Music: Codes, Patterns, and World Rhythms

by Ms. Marie Vic Briones, PYP and MYP Music Teacher

In our first unit on Communication: Codes, Patterns, and World Rhythms, the Grade 7 students have been inquiring into how an understanding of the interplay between innovation and the underlying structures of communication in different communities help foster a more inclusive and consensual society. They began with a group work on sequencing random shapes, numbers, and letters into patterns and codes which established consensus on the appropriation of meaning in the codes and symbols among the members of the group.

They then presented their group’s codes and patterns in the form of a musical performance of sounds and actions.

In order to develop IB learners who are knowledgeable communicators, the Grade 7s have also been challenged to examine 5 propositions in exploring world rhythms (Bakan, 2011). Here, they discussed the range of arguments, biases, prejudices, and certain mis/conceptions when exploring world music, and presented evidence to support their group’s stand before delving deeper into more specific culture. 

Moving on to more specific musical traditions this week, the students started off with the Balinese Gamelan of Indonesia, followed by the Tala beats of India. After exploring how rhythm is used in their culture, how the culture appropriated meaning to their unique rhythms, how it has developed over time, and how it is notated and/or communicated, they began asking “What If” questions. Here are some of them: 

In the next few weeks, the students will explore other culture-specific musical traditions such as the rhythms of Sub-Saharan Africa and the Taiko of Japan, among others.

College/Careers Counselor Corner

by Ms. Jenny Basa, College/Careers Counselor Corner

College Essay Shifts in Focus in the USA

Since the decision of the Supreme Court in the US to ban affirmative action in university admissions, some institutions have shifted the focus of college essays so students can still talk about their background.  Here are examples of some new essay prompts:

“Tell us about an aspect of your identity or a life experience that has shaped you.” – Johns Hopkins University

“Let your life speak. Describe the environment in which you were raised and the impact it has had.” – Dartmouth College

“Tell us about a community that you have been part of where your participation helped to change or shape the community for the better.” – Emory University

To learn more about this decision, you can check:  US Supreme Court Ruling on Race in Admissions

DATE

August 30
Wednesday
9:00 – 9:40 AM
Canteen Annex
Link to sign up

EVENT

Hong Kong Polytechnic University (Hong Kong)

September 1
Friday
9:00 – 9:40 AM
Canteen Annex
Link to sign up

University of San Francisco & Lewis University (USA) with the Education USA Rep to discuss Study in the USA.

Tuesday, August 29, 7:00-8:00 a.m. ET
Link to register

Friday, September 8, 8:00-9:00 p.m. ET
Link to register

Wednesday, September 20, 8:00-9:00 a.m. ET
Link to register

Join us and learn about Brown University, Columbia University, PrincetonUniversity, and the University of Pennsylvania!

Admissions representatives will hold a virtual public information session for students and families about their respective universities and the highly selective college admissions process. Topics will include: academic programs, campus  activities, admissions policies, financial aid, and international student life.

September 12
Tuesday
9:00 – 9:40AM
Canteen Annex
Link to sign up

NYU Abu Dhabi – Learn about the NYU experience, application process, programs and scholarship offered from the admissions rep.

September 27
Wednesday
9:00 – 9:40AM
Canteen Annex
Link to sign up

Hong Kong University of Science & Technology – an Info session on the application process, programs and scholarships at HKUST.

SAT Update

Test Date	Deadline for Registration, Changes and Regular Cancellation
August 26, 2023	August 11, 2023
October 7, 2023	September 22, 2023
December 2, 2023	November 17, 2023
March 9, 2024	To be confirmed
May 4, 2024	To be confirmed
June 1, 2024	To be confirmed

To register for the SAT, you may click on this link.  If you need assistance or have any questions, please feel free to email Ms. Jenny Basa at jbasa@cis.edu.ph.

Admin Notes

by Dr. Gwyn Underwood, Superintendent

Our first full week of school has been purposefully busy! It is great to see students settling into routines and starting to get into their new units of inquiry and current topics. Parents, we know from research, that (appropriate levels!) of parent involvement contributes to student learning, so please do take an interest in what your children are doing. One way of doing this could be regular casual discussions asking them (sincerely and attentively) how their learning went that day. Be sure you provide supportive comments with any feedback to ensure you create a safe environment that will encourage them to share with you what they are learning.

For more information on what they are studying, you could ask more detailed questions, request they show their work (keeping in mind the need for a safe, supportive environment),  or refer to our student learning management tools – Seesaw in the Elementary School and Google Classroom in the Middle & High School. And of course, feel free to contact their teachers with any questions or concerns!

From next week, our Newsflash will include samples of student work and activities on a rotating basis as well, so please check back here weekly as well. Have a restful weekend!

MHS Principal’s Corner

by Mr. Ben Martin, MHS Principal

Hello Dragons! My name is Ben Martin and it has already been a pleasure to meet so many amazing members of our school community this year. CIS kicked off the first day with this year’s first student-led assembly. The MHS Executive Council organized a great event with games, songs, and speeches, involving the little ones all the way up to the not so little ones. I was very impressed that even on the first day, our student leaders made it their mission to make sure that everyone was involved. I believe in the idea that leaders do not create followers but instead, create more leaders. I encourage our families that if leadership opportunities arise this year, encourage your child to get involved. There are so many ways that students can contribute and it also helps them grow and develop into the next generation of leaders shaping our future world!

Upcoming events of note

• Aug 14-18: S1 After-School Activity (ASA) Registration
• Aug 22: ASAs start
• Aug. 21: School holiday     
• Aug. 28:  National Heroes Day (Public Holiday)
• Aug. 29: Parent Coffee Meeting (CIS Annex 7:30am)

Please refer to the CIS Event Calendar for the complete calendar of school events.

Faculty & Staff HAD

by Ms. Justine Condor, Marketing Manager

CIS Faculty & staff embrace teamwork and fun with a House Activities Day!

To kick off the start of the school year, CIS faculty & staff experienced firsthand their very own version of our traditional Student House Activities Day (HAD) as a team building exercise during our new school year orientation program. This initiative not only set the stage for a year of camaraderie and collaboration but also provided our faculty & staff with an opportunity to dive into the same spirit of teamwork they encourage from our students.

During F&S HAD, members of different houses engaged in various activities designed to foster team building, communication, and friendly competition. Being educators, we even had a rubric ensuring all had a clear understanding of what Sportspersonship and Team Spirit involves!

This early bonding experience created a stronger foundation for both teachers and staff alike. With the enthusiasm and teamwork displayed on House Activities Day, we can look forward to an exciting year of growth, learning, and mutual support.

College/Careers Counselor Corner

by Ms. Jenny Basa, College/Careers Counselor Corner

DATE

August 12, 2023
Saturday
12:00 – 5:00PM
SEDA Hotel – Ayala Center

EVENT

August 16
Wednesday
9:00 – 9:40 AM
Canteen Annex
Link to sign up

Glion Institute of Higher Education (Switzerland)
Les Roches International School of Hotel Management (Switzerland & Spain)
Ecole Ducasse (France) – learn about the programs offered and the application process with the representative from the institution

August 18
Friday
9:00 – 9:40 AM
Canteen Annex
Link to sign up

University of Sydney (Australia) Talk to the admission rep and learn about the programs offered, admissions process and scholarships at one of the top universities in Australia.

SAT Update

Test dates for SY 2023–24

Test Date	Deadline for Registration, Changes and Regular Cancellation
August 26, 2023	August 11, 2023
October 7, 2023	September 22, 2023
December 2, 2023	November 17, 2023
March 9, 2024	To be confirmed
May 4, 2024	To be confirmed
June 1, 2024	To be confirmed

Principal’s Corner

by Mr. Andrew Powell, EY-12 Principal

As the school year draws to a close it has been wonderful to have the opportunity for our students to share in each other’s successes and achievements. We had a variety of events on campus this week which showcased student learning and we were also thrilled to be able to celebrate our Grade 5 and Grade 10 students in meaningful Moving Up Ceremonies, while all of our grade levels performed at our final assembly of the year.

These were moving events for many and the quality and variety of performances by students was testament to their talent and the way in which our teachers have been able to foster and cultivate it. I know that there were many proud parents watching these performances who were impressed with the growth of their children.

As a school we believe in each and every one of our students and trust that our students feel that they are valued, have learnt and grown. The nature of the school experience at CIS is such that it has provided us all with richer relationships, and a greater sense of community and purpose. I know that many of our students have expressed a desire for the school year to continue as they will miss the companionship of their peers. Others, I know, are more than ready for a break and the opportunity to recharge energy levels.

I would like to wish everyone a safe and restful summer. This is an opportunity to take a much needed break from electronic devices and enjoy time with friends and family. I can’t emphasize enough the power of literature and hope that many of our students will spend time quietly reading. All the best!

Class of 2023 College & University Acceptances

Dragon’s Print

Dragonfruit: Seniors Magazine Class of 2023

This is our fifth issue of Dragonfruit, an online magazine that showcases the “Stories of Our Seniors”, which contains highlights of the Class of 2023’s experiences as they completed their final year at CIS.

Find the magazine at http://dragonsprint.cis.edu.ph/ or navigate the flipbook below!

Festival of Festivals

by Ms. Ann Codoy & Ms. Jade Berdon, Philippines Language & Culture Teachers

As an opportunity to commemorate the end of our unit in Philippine Language and Culture, “Where We Are in Place and Time,” Grades 2-5 designed festival booths to help others appreciate the diverse cultures of the Philippines, our host country! As a result, students organized an event called the Festival of Festivals. They decorated their booths and researched information about their chosen festival to better understand Philippine culture and history. 

The upper elementary tour guides class invited the rest of the elementary school students, faculty, and staff to join and participate in various activities they had prepared! They were able to achieve their purpose successfully. The students and teachers were fully engaged in experiencing the celebration of various Filipino Festivals.

Grade 8: Language & Literature

by Mr. Damon Freeman, Language & Literature Teacher

This semester, the Grade 8 Language and Literature class embarked their youthful minds on an extraordinary journey through the realm of poetry. Like ardent explorers, they delved into the depths of meaning, unearthing profound truths hidden within verses. Themes bloomed like vibrant flowers, captivating their imaginations and unveiling the tapestry of human emotions. With an unwavering gaze, they embraced the power of context, unraveling historical threads and breathing life into ancient and contemporary words and worlds. Literary devices became their paint brushes, crafting vivid imagery, striking metaphors, and enchanting symbolism. As the class waltzed through stanzas, their understanding deepened, transforming them into enlightened souls, forever connected to the timeless art of poetry.

With pens poised like wands, the students produced their own magical potions of poetry. Some examples below of students` original work:

College/Careers Counselor Corner

by Ms. Jenny Basa, College/Careers Counselor Corner

SAT Update

Digital SAT Dates for 2023-2024
The College Board has confirmed the SAT Testing Dates for next school year.  CIS will be open for SAT testing for the following test dates:

Test Date	Deadline for Registration, Changes and Regular Cancellation
August 26, 2023	August 11, 2023
October 7, 2023	September 22, 2023
December 2, 2023	November 17, 2023
March 9, 2024	To be confirmed
May 4, 2024	To be confirmed
June 1, 2024	To be confirmed

Admin News

by Dr. Gwyn Underwood, Superintendent

It is with an abundance of thankfulness that we come together in person to celebrate our graduating students this evening. I hope we see many of you there! Our results and accreditation feedback give us the confidence that our students’ time at CIS has provided the tools needed to enable them to continue to develop their unique potential and confidently face the challenges they will be presented with to contribute to creating a better world. As they transition to CIS Alumni, we are also confident that they will continue to be responsible, respectful, and prepared.

It is wonderful to see the evidence of learning in so many ways throughout the school, as the various grades demonstrate what they have learned in their recent units. These vary in style, from essays and end-of-year exams in G11, to writing, tests, projects, dramas, presentations, etcetera in G6-10, to projects, presentations, demonstrations, and celebrations of learning (as in the Philippine Language and Culture (PLC) “Festival of Festivals” shown in the picture) in the elementary school.

Another celebration was had at our last Parent Coffee Meeting of the year last Tuesday morning. It was great to see so many faces, as we celebrated the end of the year with performances by our G4 students (using PTA-donated ukeleles) and a G10 duet (using PTA-donated wireless head microphones)! We are looking forward to a year of parent action in SY23/24 – please do join to not only contribute to the school, but you will also gain benefits from your involvement too.

While students are excited about the upcoming summer break, it is also with some sadness that we approach our last week of school next week. For those who have not read it, please do take time to review the transition “RAFT” (introduced in the May 5th Newsflash) to help both adults and students to approach the upcoming transition in a positive manner. 

Have a restful weekend ready for our busy last week of SY2022/23 next week! 

📢 Yearbook Announcement! 🎉

The Language of Identity in the Elementary Classrooms

by Ms. Maureen Juanson, Assistant Principal – PYP

In our last full week of school, the Elementary classroom continues to buzz with the excitement of students engaged in their learning. Our PYP learners are all taking on various roles to demonstrate and share the skills, understanding, and dispositions that they have been developing throughout their final units of inquiry.

The Early Years 2 and 3 game designers are busy building and creating games that will provide opportunities for players to explore how their 5 senses can work together. As they develop their games, they demonstrate their creativity, resourcefulness, and enthusiasm.

The Kinder and Grade 1 visual artists are experimenting with different materials to create art pieces to creatively express themselves. By providing feedback to each other, they learn to appreciate another artist’s effort and be open-minded to feedback in order to improve their artistic skills.

The Grades 2 and 3 authors and illustrators are discovering their writing styles as they employ the Six Traits of Writing in completing their story books. They demonstrate their understanding of perspective by creating the illusion of depth in their drawings using different types, such as bird’s eye view, worm’s eye view, street view, zoom in, and zoom out.

The Grade 4 filmmakers are stating their opinions and perspectives about human rights through the short films that they are producing. In the process of filmmaking, they are able to employ their writing skills and storytelling techniques by writing their own scripts. Through these films, they help raise awareness about the global and local issues related to equity and fairness.

The Grade 5 doctors-in-training are evaluating the importance of the six major body systems and justifying which is most important. Learning about the functions of each body system enables them to predict the problems they might encounter as a result of the physical, social/emotional, and intellectual changes as they grow. As they create plans to help each other to make safe and healthy choices and respond to challenges that they will encounter moving up to middle school, they demonstrate empathy and care and learn to advocate for their rights and needs.

In their Philippine Language & Culture classes, the upper elementary tour guides are showing appreciation for the host country’s culture by welcoming tourists to their festival booths. As they decorate their booths and share information about their chosen festivals, they gain a better understanding of Philippine culture and history.

In the PYP, we believe that deeper understanding takes place when students engage in authentic learning experiences. When students are given an opportunity to view themselves as members of the subject or fields that they are inquiring into, learning becomes more tangible to them. Ron Ritchhart, a senior research associate at Harvard Project Zero, has identified language as one of the 8 cultural forces that learning communities must acquire in order to shape students’ development as powerful thinkers and learners. He explained how the use of “language moves” can help facilitate the creation of a culture of thinking in the classroom. These include 

• The Language of Thinking
• The Language of Community
• The Language of Identity
• The Language of Initiative
• The Language of Mindfulness
• The Language of Praise and Feedback
• The Language of Listening

At CIS, we use the Language of Identity to help students assume roles and engage in the thinking and key processes that are important in the fields that they are inquiring into. Throughout the year, the Elementary students have taken on many different roles that challenged them to be engaged and become positive contrib

MYP: Student Emotional Learning (SEL)

by Ms. Evangeline Villagonzalo, Counselor/Psychology Teacher

These past few weeks, the Grades 6 to 8 students took some time to reflect and listen to important messages on child safeguarding and healthy relationships. The talk aimed to promote positive attitudes, beliefs, and values related to healthy relationships and provide an overview of the school’s child protection and safeguarding program.

While grasping the idea of consent, personal space, and boundaries, we talked about the difference between “safe touch” and “unsafe touch”. Students participated in activities that gave them an opportunity to recognize safe and unsafe situations and the impact of making smart choices in protecting themselves when faced with difficult situations. Additionally, students explored the difference between ‘wanted’ and ‘unwanted’ touches and the feelings associated with them in their broadest context. Specifically, the discussion included the value of taking responsibility, advocating for oneself, and learning how to say ‘no’ when faced with uncomfortable situations.

Here are some of our students’ learnings after the activity.

College/Careers Counselor Corner

by Ms. Jenny Basa, College/Careers Counselor Corner

SAT Update

Digital SAT Dates for 2023-2024
The College Board has confirmed the SAT Testing Dates for next school year.  CIS will be open for SAT testing for the following test dates:

Test Date	Deadline for Registration, Changes and Regular Cancellation
August 26, 2023	August 11, 2023
October 7, 2023	September 22, 2023
December 2, 2023	November 17, 2023
March 9, 2024	To be confirmed
May 4, 2024	To be confirmed
June 1, 2024	To be confirmed

Principal’s Corner

by Mr. Andrew Powell, EY-12 Principal

Celebrating Learning

This week we were treated to two very engaging assemblies. Our Elementary assembly featured a lively presentation by our Early Years students, while the MHS assembly featured an array of talented individuals and groups of students performing work they had prepared in their Music and Drama classes. As the school year comes to a close there has been, and will continue to be, a focus on celebrating learning during various class events.

Celebrations of learning are more than a display of student work and more than a party at the end of the year. These events require students to reflect on and articulate what they have learned, how they learned, questions they answered, research they conducted, and areas of strength and struggle. They are also powerful opportunities to make learning public.

At CIS we have intentionally chosen to celebrate learning with work created for an audience beyond the classroom. Our recent PYP Exhibition was a fine example of this. Preparing work to be shared with an authentic audience motivates students and creates a purpose for them to care about the quality of their work. It also raises the stakes and sets the expectation that all students, not just a select group, will share their high-quality products. It motivates students to push themselves as learners.

At the center of celebrations of learning are high-quality products and performances that reflect the content and skills that students have learned. Students are supported in producing high-quality work in preparation for celebrations of learning and take their work through multiple drafts or practices. With feedback from teachers and peers, students are motivated to meet high standards and engage in revision. It is clear to students why the product matters, and that they are being held to high expectations.

As we focus on the final two weeks of school, it is a time to celebrate student learning and the incredible growth that our students have made.

Upcoming events of note

• May 26: End of 2nd Semester ASAs
• June 2: Class of 2023 Graduation (*Half day of classes – ES dismissal 11:30am, MHS 11:45am)
• June 8: Last day of school & Moving up ceremonies (half day)
• June 12-23: Summer School Activities

Please refer to the CIS Event Calendar for the complete calendar of school events.

Elementary Pajama Day: A Cozy Celebration of School Spirit

by Ms. Claudette – Elementary Student Council Advisor/LA-English EA

Our classrooms were filled with excitement and a cozy atmosphere as students and teachers came together to celebrate Spirit Day. Spirit Days are a time-honored tradition in CIS, designed to create a positive and inclusive atmosphere that encourages students to express their individuality while also promoting a sense of belonging. This year’s theme, Pajama Day, saw everyone donning their favorite sleepwear for a day of fun and relaxation. This special occasion, organized by the Student Council, aimed to foster school spirit, promote a sense of unity, and provide a break from the everyday routine.

Throughout the day, students could be seen proudly showing off their favorite sleepwear, from superhero-themed onesies to classic flannel sets. The sight of teachers in their own cozy attire added an extra layer of hilarity, creating fun memories for all. The relaxed atmosphere encouraged a more comfortable learning environment and provided a break from the usual routine. Pajama Day also served as a valuable reminder of the importance of self-care and relaxation. By encouraging students to embrace the comfort of their pajamas, the Student Council hoped to inspire students to prioritize well-being and recognize the value of taking time to unwind and recharge.

Here are some feedback from our Elementary students regarding Pajama day:

Design Classes

by Ms. Gerri Ancajas Jumao-as, Design Teacher

The Grade 7 Design class has been investigating different materials and processes for their unit on Recycled Toy. Students have been exploring the concepts of change and resources to understand the process of development in order to cater to a specific function. Students created toys from recycled materials that will be donated to a local orphanage.

Here are the students’ works.

The Grade 9 Design class has been investigating different cooking methods and processes for their unit on Food Preparation. Students have been exploring personal expressions and diversity to adapt culinary choices to cater to a varied palette. Students created different dishes to express their gratitude to the school’s teachers, support and auxiliary staff.

Here are the students’ works.

The Grade 8 Design class has been investigating the concepts of sustainability and adaptation for their unit on Sustainable Vertical Garden. Students have been exploring different materials and techniques for their appropriateness to perform specific functions that promote environmentally friendly solutions. 

Here are some students’ works. 

DP Visual Arts: The Process Portfolio

by Mr. Jessie Saclo, DP Visual Arts Teacher

The Process Portfolio, one of the assessment components within the Visual Arts course of the IB Diploma Programme (IBDP) is part of a comprehensive curriculum that encourages students to explore various artistic disciplines, develop critical thinking skills, and gain global perspectives. It plays a crucial role in nurturing creativity, fostering self-reflection, and facilitating artistic growth and exploration. 

The Process Portfolio is a dynamic endeavor for students to investigate artists and genres, and experiment with different artistic techniques, materials, and concepts. It provides opportunities for students to take risks, push boundaries, and explore innovative approaches to artistic expression. By documenting their creative process, students are able to provide evidence of their experimentation and development over time and cultivate a sense of confidence in their unique creative abilities.

Essential to the Process Portfolio is the element of self-reflection. As students are challenged to analyze and articulate their artistic choices, intentions, and growth, written reflections enable students to develop a deeper understanding of their creative process, empowering them to make informed decisions to refine and revise their artistic intentions. It also promotes critical thinking and self-awareness, as students learn to evaluate their strengths and areas for improvement. 

In conclusion, the Process Portfolio is a visual narrative of the student’s artistic journey, demonstrating their growth, progress, and the development of their personal style. By documenting initial intentions, preliminary sketches, drafts, and revisions, students are able to demonstrate their art-making process and the development of their ideas. This visual evidence not only allows students to celebrate their achievements but also provides them with an authentic record of their artistic development. 

Have a look at our students’ documented process, reflection on their choices, artistic growth, critical thinking, and collaboration as they prepare for further artistic endeavors.

College/Careers Counselor Corner

by Ms. Jenny Basa, College/Careers Counselor Corner

SAT Update

Digital SAT Dates for 2023-2024
The College Board has confirmed the SAT Testing Dates for next school year.  CIS will be open for SAT testing for the following test dates:

Test Date	Deadline for Registration, Changes and Regular Cancellation
August 26, 2023	August 11, 2023
October 7, 2023	September 22, 2023
December 2, 2023	November 17, 2023
March 9, 2024	To be confirmed
May 4, 2024	To be confirmed
June 1, 2024	To be confirmed

Admin News

by Dr. Gwyn Underwood, Superintendent

Cebu International School is accredited/authorized by three globally recognized organizations:

• International Baccalaureate (IB)
• The Council of International Schools (CIS – but we will use CoIS in this post to avoid confusion with our school name)
• The Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) Accrediting Commission for Schools

Why get accredited?

Accreditation from a reputable organization provides an established, independent framework that enables us to collaboratively evaluate the quality and effectiveness of our program, using comprehensive standards which cover all aspects of operating an international school (refer to the diagram below-right for the nine domains used in the CoIS accreditation process). This is helpful in numerous ways, as follows:

• The feedback from completing accreditation visits (which are repeated on a five-year cycle as shown in the diagram below-left) is used to provide a focused drive towards the continued development of the school program in a systematic, data-based, and accountable manner, with valuable advice provided by external international education specialists.
• Accreditation provides an independently verifiable way for the community to check the quality of all aspects of a school’s program and provides reassurance to prospective families that our school really does provides the high-quality teaching and learning we say we offer.
• Students who attend or graduate from accredited schools will generally find it easier to transfer to new schools or enroll in colleges, as the accreditation status of the school enables the institution to be able to trust the quality of the education the student has received.

Why do we use three different organizations? 

Each of the organizations we use provides a different aspect of accreditation/authorization that we find useful:

• The International Baccalaureate (IB) has authorized CIS to offer three well-regarded IB programs – the Primary Years Programme (PYP)  in the elementary school, The Middle Years Programme (MYP) in grades 6-10, and the prestigious Diploma Programme (DP) in grades 11-12. Unlike most other school programs/curricula, the IB programs are student-centered comprehensive holistic programs that are based on effective research-based practices, and incorporate the teaching of life skills and character development within an environment that promotes international mindedness.    
• The Council of International Schools is an organization providing internationally recognized accreditation services to more than 1450 schools and universities, representing 121 countries. 
• The Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) Accrediting Commission for Schools is a world-renowned accrediting association and one of the six regional accrediting agencies in the United States providing accreditation service to over 5200 schools in the US, as well as numerous schools worldwide.

Last week, we hosted representatives from CoIS and WASC for our Preparatory Evaluation Visit (the first “leaf” in the reaccreditation cycle as shown in the diagram above left). The visitors used our detailed Prep Visit Report, interviews with stakeholders, and observations to get a comprehensive understanding of how CIS is performing using the CoIS domain standards, and will send us feedback over the next few weeks to help us prepare our self study and complete our full joint (IB/CoIS/WASC) accreditation visit next school year. From the feedback we have had thus far, all indications suggest we are on track for a successful accreditation visit next year! 

Upcoming events of note

• April 27-May 19: IBDP Exams
• May 19: School holiday
• June 2: Graduation Day (*Note adjusted date from previous calendar) 
• June 8: Last day of school & Moving up ceremonies (half day)

Please refer to the CIS Event Calendar for the complete calendar of school events.

Yearbook Pre-order

Click here to pre-order your copy of Handumanan now!

PTA Meeting

EY & Grade 1: Philippine Language and Culture

by Mary Alexis ‘Maya’ Mendez, Philippine Language and Culture Teacher

Celebrations and Fiestas in Cebu

Venturing into the world of celebrations and fiestas, the EY and KG1 students were wide-eyed since they started their last unit on How We Express Ourselves. As they were able to experience Sinulog in their actual school, they looked back on the activities they enjoyed with their family and friends. 

Furthermore, they explored the big festivals of the other two islands of Cebu province as well, Kadaugan sa Mactan in Mactan Island and Palawod Festival in Bantayan. We went deeper into the festival by discussing the different story backgrounds that brought about these festivals.

They were in awe knowing the stories behind each festival and how Sinulog and Kadaugan sa Mactan are somewhat connected. They also understood that because Bantayan island is known for their marine life, the Palawod Festival shows their unique fishing tradition and the life of their fishing community. In addition, they also unlocked relevant Cebuano words!

Some students also shared the unique celebrations and festivals of their own country while others talked about the celebrations they experienced and how these are important in bringing families together! 

Now the students are busy planning and preparing as they are creating their own celebration to culminate the lesson. The Early Years came up with Flower Day which showcases their appreciation of nature and continued efforts of sharing the planet. The Kinder and Grade One, on the other hand, agreed to celebrate Sports Day to encourage the people to exercise while having fun. This celebration entices us to a healthy and active lifestyle.

Grade 6: English Class

by Mr. Alejandro Guerra Tibocha, MHS English Teacher

Argumentative Writing and The Little Prince

In Grade 6, as part of the study of World Literature, we are studying the novella “The Little Prince” written by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, a literary work in translation. We have also been working on a progression of writing styles from the beginning of the school year. Each quarter there has been a different emphasis, namely narrative, descriptive, explanatory, and now in quarter 4 the emphasis is on argumentative/persuasive writing.

To complement the study of this literary work, and as well to prepare students to write argumentative texts, a series of tasks and activities have been assigned to students to work individually and also in groups. Some of these tasks include visual prompts, creative writing tasks, and essay-like prompts, among other.

The following is one of the Character Recipes created to study and understand characters’ personality traits. This one corresponds to the main character, The Little Prince.

Grade 12 Visual Arts

by Ms. Gerri Ancajas Jumao-as, Design Teacher

Visual Arts have been an essential part of our lives as it reflects the world and times. It is infused in our expressions, endeavors and communication. It aids us as we understand our lives, culture, history and experiences.

One key feature of the IB Visual Arts curriculum is the Process Portfolio. It is an assessment task that highlights student’s experimentation, exploration, manipulation and refinement of a variety of visual arts activities during the two-year course.

The extracts and artworks below showcase how the students have engaged with their chosen medium and technique, and the development of their ideas.

Design and Concept by Reesha

The theme of my exhibition is childhood nostalgia. For this artwork, I aim to depict the addictiveness of nostalgia and how easy it is to be drowned in it. Thus, I plan on representing nostalgia through an abstract flow to depict drowning and consume the woman (meant to represent me). ​The subject depicted is me as the theme for this artwork was inspired by my own experiences. I tend to cling to the past and reminisce then, and thus feel a connection to the subject of this piece. The woman is not smiling but instead in a daze, to embody that this addiction to nostalgia is unhealthy and numbs the present.

After presenting this artwork, I am satisfied with the assessment of my peers. The main comment was that the composition used for this artwork was very successful in creating harmony despite the large array of forms used in the style of Lee. Moreover, they successfully appear to be drowning her-which were the main purposes for the experimentation of this artwork. My peers stated that the texture and coloring of the background creates a flow and dream-like drowning effect to the artwork, further lining with the concept of the artwork. Lastly, they stated that the overall design chosen to present the theme for this artwork successfully lines with the concept of the drowning characteristics of the past in the form of nostalgia. Additionally, the design and palette chosen has a playful child-like design shared by the artworks for the exhibition, tying everything together. However, if I were to attempt to create this artwork again, I would take more time transferring the artwork to paper using the colored pencils, using less pressure when coloring so I can have better control on values and color. Additionally, now that I have a better understanding of composition, I would like the push the number of forms and details for said forms further.​

Design and Concept by Naoki

In my sketch, I have drawn a symmetrical design of a living room of a family where I plan to include the figures of parents and a child. However, the child is on the ceiling as the parents are on the right side of the floor to express how isolated the child feels. With Andy Acre’s artwork in mind, I plan to experiment with my ability to create a story within a diorama. With my sketch, I plan to bring the audience into the scene of a family and how their emotions are taking over them. With Rene Magritte’s “Not to be reproduced,” I plan to mimic the way he conceals, yet reveals the identity of his main subject. I plan to mimic this for the characters that will be included in my artwork, which will focus on a family. Lastly, With Sun Young Byun’s artwork, I was truly inspired by the way they white out figures to create a contrast, yet meaningfully expresses the loss of identity in their artwork. With that in mind, I plan to mimic this through whiting out different objects that I can include in my artworks to draw attention and create a connection to the subject’s emotions. With the symmetry, realism, and symbolisms in mind for the artworks, I aim to create surreal artworks and/or a diorama which I will be experimenting with.

The majority of comments from peers were positive and really great to hear that my ideas and symbolisms were truly effective in the process of bringing my concept to life. In terms of suggestions, I believe that the suggestions would truly improve my artwork. I tackled the suggestion which was to cover up the parts of the walls and exteriors that aren’t thoroughly painted. To do this, I made sure to color match the areas that needed a retouch in paint and made sure that the paint I had mixed was opaque. I covered the areas that needed improvement with multiple layers to ensure that it has been covered up thoroughly. Lastly, there are certain parts of the exterior that haven’t been connected efficiently. To improve this I made use of glue and weights to hold down the parts, specifically the roof, to glue them together. Other than the suggestions given, I took a step back to gain another perspective of how I could add one last detail that could tie my artwork altogether. I realized that in the early stages of my experiment, I was inspired by expressionism to symbolically use vibrant colors to symbolize conflict between the parents. I wanted this to symbolize how these conflicts between parents don’t only affect them, but also affect everyone around them. Not only in a child’s development, but also affects everyone around them like relatives. I believe that I truly reached my goal and was able to express my ideas and concepts so much better than my initial sketch.

Design and Concept by Roy

The overall theme of my drawing is coercion, which means to persuade someone to do something by using force. The girl in the drawing can’t express her feelings or speak words that she wants. This is because there is a lot of coercive restraint in the world that we are living in now. The tape represents the restraint of voice.” 

I wanted to focus on the face to highlight the details of the face. This will also allow me to show a wider range of tonal values on the surface of the face and hair. I used the symbolism of a tape to put in her mouth to show that she is being stopped from expressing herself and she is unable to say whatever she wants. The tape represents anything and everything that might stop us from expressing ourselves. 

Before making any changes to the background, I started with fixing the butterfly. Using medium charcoal pencil, I drew thick lines to the butterfly, so that the butterfly will stand out, which brings a lot of meaning to the overall concept. I colored some big empty space, which will make the butterfly visually standout and become realistic. And then I added some light value to the cloth, which was mentioned in one of my comments. By adding light value to the cloth, the overall artwork became more harmonious, not being separated. I also added some curved lines to the hair, which will make the drawing look more realistic. By doing this the drawing became more natural and it actually looked like a person. Finally, I added the framed background. I made a framed background because it will bring focus on the middle of the artwork, which will make the woman stand out more. I also erased some dirty spots on the background because dirty spots could make the overall artwork look messy.

Design and Concept by Victoria

I have been exploring emotions and for this piece focused on depression. Depression is mainly defined as a mood disorder that causes a persistent feeling of sadness and loss of interest. In this artwork, I wanted to express an emotion affected by the disorder and medical condition. To express this concept,I wanted the composition to be focused on the bottom parts. To do this, I drew the human figure in the bottom of a body of water. One significant impact from drawing the human figure at the bottom is that it can create the effect of a person drowning  and express that a certain amount of time has already passed after she dived into the water. Another significant part of this artwork will be the colors of the light figures from the top facing downwards, from outside into the underwater. The light will be expressed using various color layers to highlight the effect of diffusion. The variety of colors emphasized the realistic texture of the ocean and created movements of the figures underwater.

“Since the upper part needs to be the brightest, I added a light blue color layer and then added several short white and blue lines facing the sides to express the lights being spreaded. Another feedback was to details on the seaweeds and rocks. A specific feedback was that the underwater figures are placed under deep ocean and hence need to . Based on the feedback, I improved specific details on each figure. For example, for the land on the bottom and left side, I repeated adding layers with different colors. The main color used for the base was green and black was used to add darkness and shadows on the edges of the land to express the darkness of underwater.” 

Then I added the transparent  human figure drawing down the water using white acrylic. To create transparency, after drawing the outline of a human figure, I filled it with white acrylic paint mixed with a lot of water and then wiped the colored area so that only some parts are white and the blue at the back is shown. Lastly, before the artwork is complete, I spray white paint on top of the land area using small brushes to add texture and highlights underwater. The images on the right side is the final outcome of the composition artwork.

Design and Concept by Chewon

The theme I want to express for this artwork is related to stress from pressure. I decided to make a sculpture of an animal instead of a human. I decided to focus on baby birds. Baby birds usually eat what their parents eat. Some species of birds eat the food and regurgitate it to feed their young. To me, how the baby bird grows up depends on what their parent brings to them seems similar to the quality of life that a child gets depending on the social status of the parent. I plan to make 6 offspring, all with their beaks open. The beaks are opened to signify that they are hungry and dependent on their parents. This also expresses their helplessness. They are drawn on a nest sheltered from outside forces. This connotes how as children we are dependent on our parents and cannot do anything without them.

The general comments I got were about how the form looks accurate with the details, the sculpture looks clear, and the sculpture fits the concept (we were able to make a connection between birds and the human experience). The general suggestion was to make the size of the sculpture bigger. I thought about making the whole sculpture bigger, however, this would mean starting from the beginning. This will take too much time to recreate every form. Thus, I decided to make a sculpture of a parent bird. 

Mangrove Planting Field Trip

by Ms. Stefanny Hermias, Go Green Dragons Club Advisor

As an extension to their After School Activity, the Go Green Dragons Environmental Club conducted a mangrove tree planting trip this Saturday, May 13 at Co Jordan Talaba Farm and Fishing. As an environmental club they felt that it was important to reach out to the community and help the surrounding environment. The activity received support from the Mayor’s Office of the Municipality of Mandaue. Students found it a fun morning and a great way to demonstrate their commitment to the environment.

College/Careers Counselor Corner

by Ms. Jenny Basa, College/Careers Counselor Corner

College Events (Virtual and Face to Face)

DATE

May 23
Tuesday
9:15 – 10:00 AM
Canteen Annex
Link to sign up

EVENT

Bond University (Australia) – An information session with the university rep to learn about the programs, scholarships and the application process.

Principal’s Corner

by Mr. Andrew Powell, Ey-12 Principal

We are blessed with an outstanding group of Visual and Performing Arts teachers at CIS. While the work of the department has featured prominently throughout the year, this week they worked with their students to showcase some of their ongoing projects. This included an Art Exhibit, interactive posters with QR codes of student musical compositions, student musical performances during lunch and a Grade 10 Musical Revue, presented by the Grade 10 drama class. A special performance was also held for parents and PTA members, which was particularly well attended.

At CIS we intentionally strive to inspire and one of the qualities that we look to model and value is creativity. While often referred to in the context of the arts, creativity is defined by the ability to produce or use original or unusual ideas. Throughout the year there have certainly been a great deal of creative ideas, approaches, and solutions at play. 

Prospective families are increasingly looking to CIS for its creative culture. Our Virtual Arts programmes are in demand by students who are looking to nurture their creative talents. This is not only providing our students with opportunities to learn and experiment with new techniques and skills but as I have mentioned previously, it  is resulting in their heightened visibility to prospective universities.

The nature of our program encourages student agency and consequently is open to creative possibilities. While our faculty work hard to inspire, we have such an incredible group of students that they also serve to motivate our teachers. They provide them with a vivid image of future possibilities which leads to a dynamic approach to lesson planning and unit development, enhancing the overall school experience.

One important aspect of the way our visual and performing arts programmes are delivered, is the commitment that our teachers have to making this learning joyful. As a key principle of the school’s Guiding Statements, this provides a mode of learning in which students are given the opportunity to experience happiness while nurturing curiosity and interacting with meaningful content through a supportive community of peers and teachers.

Elementary: Physical and Health Education

 by Coach Jay Hermias, Elem PHE Teacher

In a recent physical and health education class, elementary students demonstrated impressive skills in a variety of games and activities. From traditional favorites like slide tag, soccer, basketball, dodgeball and kickball to newer games such as improvised capture the flag and ultimate frisbee, these young athletes showed determination, teamwork, and sportsmanship in our game tournament.

In addition to the physical benefits of these activities, students also learned important lessons about health and wellness. They were taught the importance of staying hydrated, warming up before exercise, and taking breaks when needed to prevent injury.

The students also showcased IB Learner Profiles such as being reflective, risk-takers, communicators, and thinkers, as they participated in a variety of physical activities and challenges. They demonstrated their commitment to teamwork, their ability to persevere through difficult challenges, and their willingness to take calculated risks.

Here are some highlights in PHE for the past few weeks: 

Working out to improve strength and endurance

Practicing their attacking and defending strategies in soccer

Having fun participating capture the flag

Learning the rules in playing basketball

Improving balance and control

 Students showing off their  kicking skills in soccer!

Builders Bulldozers

Attacking strategies in touch rugby

Teamwork in human tug of war

Students learning some strategies in soccer

Students learning how to pass and catch the ball

Playing dodging, coordination and agility games

Improving their arms, core strength, and coordination

Students practicing  their dribbling skills in basketball

ARTS WEEK!!

by Arts Week Committee

The Annual CIS Arts Week & Student Exhibition ran from Monday, May 8 to May 12, 2023.  The week included music and performances and a visual arts exhibition. Here are some photos of the week.

Art Exhibition

Interactive Posters:

Busking:

Grade 10’s Musical Revue Unit Summative performance

Arts Week

by Ms. Stefanny Hermias, MHS Drama Teacher

Theatre Class Presents Successful Musical Revue!

In celebration of Arts Week, Grade 10 Theatre class has just presented their highly-anticipated class production summative to an audience that included MHS students and teachers, G10 parents and PTA Board. The performance, which showcased the students’ talents in acting, singing, and dancing, was met with thunderous applause and positive reviews. 

Students had been working tirelessly for two months to perfect their musical revue, which tackled stages of love. It was filled with catchy songs, elaborate costumes, and stunning choreography. It is sure to be remembered as a highlight of Grade 10’s last year in Theatre class and MYP.

Student Reflections:

Grade 8/9 Creative Body Movement 

In 8/9 Theatre class, students engaged in a creative body movement lesson and explored various ways to use their bodies to express emotions and convey messages. With music playing in the background, the class was a flurry of energy as students experimented with different movements, from slow and deliberate to fast and spontaneous. The lesson not only helped to build physical dexterity but also fostered a greater understanding of the importance of body language in theatrical performance. During the unit, the level of  creativity and enthusiasm displayed by the Grade 8 and 9 students was remarkable and impressive! 

(Please click each  photo to watch their ‘Creative Body Movement’ videos!)

Currently, Grade 8/9 theatre students have been quite busy and working hard perfecting their waltz dance routine class. They are looking forward to their next showcase which will be at the End of Year Assembly. 

Here are giphy teasers of their Waltz dance!

CIS Touch Rugby

by Mr. Damon Freeman & Ms. Leanne Healy, CIS Touch Rugby Coaches

On Saturday May 6th, Cebu International School (CIS) hosted the inaugural CIS Touch Rugby Championship, with teams from Pardo, Guadalupe, Mango and Talamban SOS participating. The event also included exhibition 7’s (seven-a side rugby) games from Cebu Dragons Rugby Club, making it a day filled with rugby excitement.

Families, friends and teachers came out in full force to support, their presence was greatly appreciated. The players and club are fortunate to have such a strong support system, thank you all for your unwavering and generous support!

Aside from the competitive aspect of the tournament, the event also provided an opportunity for the players to develop community ties. Rugby is not just a physical sport, but also a sport that focuses on building character and forging friendships. The players had the chance to interact with other schools and make new friends, which is an important aspect of their overall development.

In the Under 12s division, CIS emerged as the champions, winning a well-deserved trophy. The coaches are extremely proud of all the players, and their hard work and dedication has certainly paid off. The U15`s and U19`s also made it to the finals, losing extremely narrowly. 

The tournament was a huge success, with all teams displaying impressive skills and teamwork. The players have clearly put in a lot of effort and enthusiasm into their training, and it was demonstrated on the field.

The Touch Rugby Championship is a testament to the growing popularity of rugby in Cebu, and it is heartening to see so many young players taking an interest in the sport. Rugby is a sport that teaches core values; Integrity, Discipline, Solidarity, Respect and Passion. It is clear that the players have embraced these values.

A note from the coaches:  

It was a pleasure to witness so many young players displaying their skills on the field. All players should be commended for their hard work and dedication, we are proud of every one of you. Thank you to all staff, parents and guardians who supported the players and event to make the day possible and filled with a community atmosphere. Congratulations to the Under 12s division for their trophy-winning efforts, and to all the teams for their impressive performances. The future of rugby in Cebu looks bright, and we can’t wait to see the players develop their game even more through the rugby events and training.

Thank you all!

College/Careers Counselor Corner

by Ms. Jenny Basa, College/Careers Counselor Corner

Question of the Week:  For an incoming 12th grade student, do I need to take the SAT since I’ll be applying to college next school year?

It depends on where you are applying to and if you are going to register for the full IB Diploma.  Taking the SAT is an option especially for those who do not present a recognized high school qualification. At CIS, our HS diploma is recognized by universities abroad because we are accredited with the Council of International Schools (CIS) and the Western Association of Schools & Colleges (WASC) In the US, there is a growing number of colleges and universities who have gone test optional.  Here is a list list you can refer to.  This list can change so the best resource is to check the university’s website.

College Events (Virtual and Face to Face)

DATE

May 23
Tuesday
9:15 – 10:00 AM
Canteen Annex
Link to sign up

EVENT

Bond University (Australia) – An information session with the university rep to learn about the programs, scholarships and the application process.

Admin News

by Dr. Gwyn Underwood, Superintendent

With only five more weeks till the end of the 2022/23 school year, we are all faced with various levels of pending change. Teachers will complete the academic year, students are preparing to move up a grade or graduate, and some families are preparing to leave CIS and Cebu. During this time of change, research has suggested that it is beneficial to consciously consider how transitions can affect us, and our families. The following is an adaptation of an article I like to share at this time of the year to remind us all to consider how we can be prepared for the upcoming changes.

Building your transition RAFT 

David Pollock and Ruth Van Reken1 outline the transition process as a normal process that uses the following associated feelings:

It is helpful to consider emotions involved during transitions, so as to understand and be ready to deal with any stress these emotions may cause. Failure to cope with these will result in an unhappy transition and poor re-engagement in your new environment. For students, this will certainly affect their social and academic achievements.

Dr. Pollock2 also developed the acronym and visual image “RAFT” to help explain pre-departure processes needed for successful transitions. Here is a summary for your reference:

Reconciliation – Begin building your raft by asking yourself if you have any relationships that need mending. Is there any unfinished business between you and someone you are in a relationship with? This is the time to give and receive forgiveness. Bitterness and regret stemming from lack of closure and resolution inhibit good grief and adjustment to a new location.

Affirmation – This is the time to thank the people who have been involved in your life. Affirm the relationships you have made and what they have meant to you. Take the time to tell people what you have learned from them and how grateful you are for them. Try to leave as little unsaid as possible when you leave a place.

Farewells – Say goodbyes to people, places, pets, and possessions that have mattered to you. Take lots of pictures. Take the time to say culturally appropriate goodbyes. Some cultures require a lengthy departure process. Particularly difficult farewells are the ones that are generally rushed or put off, so plan ahead and give the farewell due attention.

Think destination – Think and dream about where you are going and what it will be like. Be very honest about the expectations you have for the people and situations that you are going to. Be honest with yourself about how you feel about this transition. Think ahead to what scares you or excites you about where you are going. Research the realities of your destination. If at all possible, put concrete plans in place.

These last few weeks will pass quickly. Please take time to build a RAFT for your transition, and go out of your way to help your friends build theirs. Consider how change may impact the feelings of all of our students whether they are leaving or not, as the process will help them face new situations as they move into a new grade, and as some of their friends and teachers leave.

*References & Credits:

• Third Culture Kids: The experience of growing up among worlds by David C. Pollock and Ruth E. Van Reken
• Adapted from: http://theirrationalseason.blogspot.com/2008/04/raft.html
• Raft Photo: Joshua Earle on Unsplash.com

Upcoming events of note

• April 27-May 19: IBDP Exams
• May 8 – 12: Arts Week
• May 9, 7:45 am: PTA planning meeting (save the date – more details to come next week!)
• May 19: School holiday
• June 2: Graduation Day (*Note adjusted date from previous calendar) 
• June 8: Last day of school & Moving up ceremonies (half day)

Please refer to the CIS Event Calendar for the complete calendar of school events.

PTA Board Meeting

Join us for a PTA Meeting with the details below:

Theme: “Working together to make the most out of our children’s CIS journey!”

Date: Tuesday, May 9, 2023
Time: 7:45 AM
Venue: MB – Rm. 203
RSVP: Al Cergneux +63 917 523 4247

See you on Tuesday!

Grade 5: PYP Exhibition 2023

Mrs. Aimee Underwood, Grade 5 Homeroom Teacher

The Grade 5 students kicked off their PYP Exhibition showcase last Friday, April 28, 2023.  It was wonderful to see and hear the excitement in the community, as we celebrated our first in-person showcase in three years!

What is the PYP Exhibition? In the students’ own words…

A Community Experience 

Following the opening performance, the CIS community delighted in exploring and participating in a wide range of student passions and actions. Together, we celebrated the learning process — the failures, the false starts, the light bulb moments, the milestones, and the many, many successes and massive achievements that the students have made as IB learners during their PYP journeys.

An Invitation

We now invite everyone to visit the PYPx 2023 Virtual Showcase and explore each student’s individual website to read, watch, and learn about their unique learning journeys.

What might you say, think, do, have, or believe differently as a result of visiting their showcase? How will you also be inspired to develop as “inquiring, knowledgeable and caring young people who help to create a better and more peaceful world through intercultural understanding and respect” (IB Mission)?

MHS: Week Without Walls

by Ms. Raisa Romer, OLC Coordinator

Row Row Row!

One of the many highlights of the MHS Week Without Walls was the thrilling and educational experience of the “Build a Boat” activity, which challenged students to design and construct a 1-2 person boat using only cardboard and tape. This 90-minute activity encouraged teamwork, communication, collaboration, and creativity while helping students to apply important physics, design, and math concepts.

Students had to concentrate on their communication and teamwork skills in addition to the technical components of the activity to ensure that their team worked efficiently. To create the best race design and strategy, they had to assign work, listen to one another’s ideas, and compromise. Making a team flag and chant enabled students to collaborate and build team spirit, making them feel more connected and motivated.

During and after the race, students had the chance to evaluate their boats and compare them with their competitors. Through reflection, students could identify areas where they could have improved their design or teamwork. This reflective process encouraged critical and analytical thinking, helping students develop their problem-solving skills and prepare them for future challenges.

The “Build a Boat” activity was an engaging and unique learning experience that integrated physics, design, and math principles while fostering teamwork, communication, and reflection. It allowed students to apply their knowledge and skills practically and enjoyably. We look forward to more exciting learning opportunities like this in the future!

Grade 9 – 11: Week Without Walls

by Ms. Vangie Villagonzalo, School Counselor

In keeping with the school’s philosophy to enrich and broaden the educational experience of students, MHS students were engaged in a variety of fun and challenging learning experiences during the Week Without Walls. For Grades 9 to 11 students, we set aside one session for them to take some time to reflect and listen to  important messages on chemical substance dependency and abuse. We invited speakers from Safe Haven Recovery Village and Battle Against Ignorance (BAI) Foundation to talk to our students about this topic. 

The said talk aimed to promote understanding of the science behind substance abuse and addiction as well as making students aware of the dangers and harmful effects of getting into it. Specifically, it includes the value of taking responsibility, advocating for oneself by learning how to say ‘no’ to peer pressure, and the importance of choosing to live a healthy lifestyle. 

Here are some of our students’ learnings after the talk.

College/Careers Counselor Corner

by Ms. Jenny Basa, College/Careers Counselor Corner

Study in the Netherlands

Here are 5 good reasons to study in the Netherlands:

• A wide range of programmes offered in English
• Low tuition fees  (for non-EU: € 6,000 and € 15,000/EU: € 2,314 )
• International community
• A good place to live
• Excellent career opportunities

For more detailed information, please visit this website.  

Higher education in the Netherlands is known for its high quality. There are two types of higher education in the Netherlands: research-oriented and profession-oriented.  Below is a quick overview of both types:

Research about the IB: Key findings from research on Impact of the IB Diploma Programme

The IB partners with institutions to examine the impact and outcomes  of  its programmes. This particular resource looks at the DP Core: CAS, TOK & Extended Essay. 

“A study in Australia, England and Norway investigated whether student participation in the DP contributed to higher levels of critical thinking. Results indicated that IB students had significantly higher levels of critical thinking than their non-IB peers—an advantage that held even after matched samples of IB and non-IB students were used for comparison.”

A study across six countries (Australia, Germany, Japan, Mexico, Spain and the United States (US)) measured DP and Career-related Programme (CP) students’ global mindedness. Researchers used the World Values Survey (WVS) to benchmark IB students against their non-IB peers from a similar age range.To view the entire report, please check this link.

SAT UPDATE for 2022-2023

SAT Test Date	Deadline for Registration, Changes and Regular Cancellation
June 3, 2023 (Digital)	May 19, 2023

Test dates labeled Digital means that students will bring a device to the test center and take the exam using their device.  The College Board may provide devices for test-takers who do not have access to a device.  All test-takers for Digital SATs are still required to report physically to the test center to take the test.

To register for the SAT, you may click on this link.  If you need assistance or have any questions, please feel free to email Ms. Jenny Basa at jbasa@cis.edu.ph.

Principal’s Corner

by Mr. Andrew Powell, EY-12 Principal

This week the campus has been especially busy as our Grade 5 students prepare for their culminating PYP Exhibition, while Grade 6-11 students engage in a variety of activities on and off campus as part of Week Without Walls. The progressive nature of the education provided to these groups of students is considerably different from that experienced by other students at schools in the Philippines. This approach places students at the center of the learning experience while offering them a safe and supportive environment that prepares them for life beyond the classroom.

The practical nature of many of the Week Without Walls activities have been purposefully planned. Our students have engaged with the wider community through a series of service-learning opportunities off-campus. They have also enjoyed working with a racing car mechanic to get a better understanding of how cars work, participated in First Aid sessions to ensure that they can respond to critical emergencies, engaged in self-defense c classes, and worked together on various campus beautification projects, including the development of a garden. Jewelry-making and watercolor painting classes were also provided as optional activities while a remarkable CIS dragon was sculpted from wood and stands proudly in the lobby of our building.

The Grade 5 PYP Exhibition (PYPx), while showcasing individual explorations into various real-world problems, was also an exciting opportunity for students to share how they have grown in their knowledge and understanding. Resilience has proven to be a quality that is vital to thriving in an ever-changing world and this has been on display as students have engaged in problem-solving-based learning, which has challenged them to explore and take risks in a positive and constructive manner. Listening to students proudly speak about their explorations into topics and connecting them to Sustainable Development Goals was a powerful experience for many community members.

Creativity and innovation sets successful entrepreneurs apart from their peers and we know that through the activities that we offer, our students are well-placed to embrace this mindset. Learning extends beyond simple rote memorization and test-taking. In the real world, when faced with challenges it is not a matter of providing the right answer, but rather a matter of assessing a situation and thinking creatively to consider a range of possible answers. We strive to encourage our students to embrace their imaginations and skill sets so that they may experiment and innovate.

As a school, we believe that we are uniquely positioned to address the challenges of educating children in an ever-changing world. As such, we focus on the needs of our students in relation to life beyond the classroom. To respond to these changing and challenging times our progressive approach to education creates an environment that is filled with learning opportunities, and ignites passion and innovation while fostering meaningful relationships and the ability to solve practical problems and challenges.

Upcoming events of note

• April 27-May 19: IBDP Exams
• May 1: Labor Day (Public Holiday)
• May 5, 1-3 pm: CIS Open Day (Contact Admissions for info)
• May 8 – 12: Arts Week
• May 9, 7:45 am: PTA planning meeting (save the date – more details to come next week!)
• May 19: School holiday
• June 2: Graduation Day (*Note adjusted date from previous calendar) 
• June 8: Last day of school & Moving up ceremonies (half day)

Please refer to the CIS Event Calendar for the complete calendar of school events.

Elementary: Media Literacy

Mary Jean Cordova – Media Literacy Teacher 

In Media Literacy class, students have the opportunity to expand their learning, which helps them develop a deeper understanding of concepts. They were able to engage in activities aligned with their unit of inquiry, allowing them to apply the knowledge and skills they’ve learned in class.

As we wrapped up the recent unit under the transdisciplinary unit, Where We Are in Place and Time,  students in Kinder and Grade 1 were able to recognize how our choices today affect and influence our future as they looked into the problems of transportation. They were able to acknowledge the importance of having sustainable transportation. Additionally, the students also explored different forms of transportation. They learned about their impact on the environment, prompting them to think critically about how they can contribute to a more sustainable future. 

Students in Grades 2 to 4 did a novel study and looked into the adversities and challenges that the characters encountered throughout the story. They were able to develop their empathy and perspective-taking abilities as they put themselves in the characters’ shoes and considered the challenges they faced. They also explored the literary elements such as plot and characterization that provide them a greater appreciation for the art of storytelling and how authors use language to convey meaning and emotion.

As the Grade 5 students are wrapping up their PYP Exhibition, in this unit, they were able to apply the skills that we’ve learned from the previous units. They were able to practice their research and thinking skills as they evaluated the sources they found to support their inquiry. This unit provided the Grade 5 students an excellent opportunity to integrate their learning and apply their skills in real-life contexts.

Spanish Class

by Mr. Antonio Melgar, MYP/DP Spanish Teacher

Grades 8 and 9 really like to play, so for Spanish class, they created diverse board games to express their learning, realizations, and discoveries, according to their level of readiness, on the topic of the 3 Rs: recycle, reuse, repurpose. Here are some of the students’ comments in Spanish about the nature of these activities.

1. Pienso que los juegos son muy divertidos y tienen muchos información. Cuando hacer mi juego con mi compañeros, queremos un juego que agradable pero tienen informacion sabes la tema de polución. – N.V.
2. Hemos creado el juego por hablar y decir nuestras opiniones e ideas- me encantan las miniaturas, y por eso, sugerí a mis compañeros. Después, hemos mejorado el tema básico y hemos completado el juego. Me gustan mucho los juegos de la clase, creo que es muy divertido y los temas de reciclar, reducir y reutilizar son muy aparentes. – YC 
3. Creo que crear los juegos es muy divertido. Aprendí muchas palabras y gramática nuevas. Sé más sobre la planeta y como ayudar al planeta. – R.B.

Grade 11: Spanish Language B

This quarter students from Grade 11 Spanish B, are discussing the positive and negative aspects of globalization, and how this aspect impacts on each of our lives at diverse levels and degree. The students created essential open-ended questions to reflect on universal language and currency, our personal impact on pollution, capitalism versus indigenous communities, how media and entertainment changes our perspective and how important moral values are in a capitalist society. 

Below are some of the questions that students created questions and this coming week we will attempt to try to answer them.  They are proud to announce that their CAS collaboration with Museo de Cadiz in Spain is almost complete, so watch out for our next posting on how their contribution will looks like on the MdC website

WWW Reflection

by Gabby, Grade 10

WWW has been a very productive week. It was full of fun and new experiences. It was really enlightening. I learned a lot of new things, especially during the field trip. The Day trip was one of a kind. Through the trip, we were able to connect with and better grasp the experiences of local public school students and be more in touch with the reality of it all. I was able to experience and see the inequality of life. Through this experience I was able to think and reflect about my life, the environment I am used to, as well as how lucky I am to be living a stable life. Despite our differences, for instance, language, as a diverse community, we were able to get along with them and fully immerse ourselves in the process of both teaching and learning. It was a pleasure to see the children having fun and enjoying our presence. After the day trip, we spent the rest of the week getting involved in beautification and art projects such as making artificial coral reefs and jewelry making, learning survival skills such as basic first aid and leaving no trace on the environment. Through these activities, we were able to develop awareness of how we can make positive impacts on the environment and people around us. Overall, WWW was a joyful and meaningful learning experience.

College/Careers Counselor Corner

by Ms. Jenny Basa, College/Careers Counselor Corner

Study in Japan

Two weeks ago, Mr. Freddy Mason from the Nagoya University of Commerce & Business shared some interesting data about studying in Japan. These slides were extracted from his original presentation with permission to publish.

Below is the average tuition cost per year depending on the type of university.  “Scholarships” may range from a one-off tuition discount of 10% up to 100% with room and board.

The figure below breaks down the cost distribution for a student to live and study in Japan and a cost comparison among different cities/prefectures.

Japanese University Consortium

To learn more about universities in Japan, visit the Japanese University Consortium website. The figure below shows the logos of all universities.

SAT UPDATE for 2022-2023

SAT Test Date	Deadline for Registration, Changes and Regular Cancellation
June 3, 2023 (Digital)	May 19, 2023

Test dates labeled Digital means that students will bring a device to the test center and take the exam using their device.  The College Board may provide devices for test-takers who do not have access to a device.  All test-takers for Digital SATs are still required to report physically to the test center to take the test.

To register for the SAT, you may click on this link.  If you need assistance or have any questions, please feel free to email Ms. Jenny Basa at jbasa@cis.edu.ph.