Newsflash: December 1, 2023

Admin News

by Dr. Gwyn Underwood, Superintendent

As we near the end of our first semester with less the two weeks to go now, it is wonderful to see various projects and events showcasing the learning that has been occurring over the past semester. A few examples of note include:   

• “Honk”, our production for 2023 based on the children’s story “The Ugly Duckling”. What a wonderful performance – congrats to the performers, organizers, stage crew, and audience! 
• Book Week events – what an action-packed week to promote reading and literacy!
• Various end-of-unit projects throughout the school.

These examples are a good reminder for us to be grateful for what we have, and can experience. It is interesting to note the research shows multiple benefits from being grateful, including a positive impact on health, well-being, and relationships. As we approach our mid-year Christmas break, let’s make an effort to be grateful, and share our gratitude with others. Our community will certainly benefit from this! Have a wonderful weekend!

Upcoming events of note

• Dec. 2 (Sat): CIS is hosting a touch rugby tournament organized but the Cebu Dragons Rugby Club
• Dec. 2 (Sat): Digital SAT
• Dec. 9 (Sat): Tree of Giving (off-campus service activity)
• Dec. 13 (Wed): End of Semester Assembly/End of Qtr. 1 (half day)
• Dec. 14 – Jan. 8: Christmas/Semester Break
• Jan. 8 (Mon): Teachers’ In-Service Day (No classes)
• Jan. 9 (Tue): First day of 2nd Semester

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

Book Week Photos

Grade 11 and 12: DP Biology

by Ms. Rebecca Devadoss, DP Biology Teacher

Grade 11 Class
During the various metabolic activities within our cells, hydrogen peroxide is produced as a byproduct. If too much hydrogen peroxide builds up, it can cause damage. The enzyme catalase converts this harmful hydrogen peroxide into harmless water and oxygen, helping to keep our cells safe. Catalase works best at a temperature around our body temperature, which is about 37 degrees Celsius (37°C), and works in a slightly basic or neutral environment. The best pH for catalase activity is around 7.

This quarter, students explored the factors that affect the enzymatic activity of catalase in potato tissue using 3% hydrogen peroxide as the substrate. Students in groups investigated the effect of temperature or pH and measured the enzyme activity by the height of the oxygen bubbles that are produced as a byproduct. 

The results were aligned with established scientific knowledge, validating the reliability of the experiment.

Grade 12 Class
The Earth is a closed ecosystem where energy is transferred but matter is recycled. Energy flows through the trophic levels, sustaining life. Students set up innovative “mesocosms” that were either terrestrial, aquatic, or a combination of both. Mesocosms are closed ecosystems that are sealed to ensure that water, oxygen, carbon dioxide, and other nutrients are recycled. Plants initiate the energy transfer through photosynthesis. Decomposers that would be naturally present in the soil and water break down organic matter, completing the cycle. While the matter remains within the system, energy continually circulates, emphasizing the closed yet dynamic nature of Earth’s ecosystem. The mesocosm experiment exemplifies how, in Earth’s closed system, matter is conserved and energy sustains life.

Students have been making qualitative observations on a regular basis. Images of mesocosm.

Beginning of quarter I

After one semester,  End of quarter II

Touch Rugby

by Mr. Damon Freeman

This Saturday 2 December CIS will participate in the Visayas Youth Rugby Festival as part of the Philippines Sports Commission drive to promote Olympic sports in the Visayas. CIS has entered an u12, u15, u19 and Girls team. The event will take place at CIS from 9:30am – 4pm.

We invite you to bring your family along to witness and experience the thrill of rugby firsthand. The event promises to be a fantastic day filled with sportsmanship, camaraderie, and exciting matches that showcase the skills of talented players in various age categories.

DATE

EVENT

Available online

Maryland Institute College of Art (USA) – If you are a student pursuing an artistic career, here’s an opportunity to seek portfolio advice, take advantage of two options:

Option 1: Connect with a MICA admissions counselor through this LINK

Option 2:  Received feedback through  the Association of  Indepedent Colleges of Art & Design (AICAD) LINK

December 2023 events for Glion, Les Roches & Ecole Ducasse

7 December, 6.30 – 7.30pm (SGT): Discover the Fascinating World of Culinary & Pastry Arts with École Ducasse

Founded by the legendary chef, Alain Ducasse, École Ducasse offers Bachelor programs in culinary and pastry arts at its two campuses in France. Link to register

11 December, 6.30 – 7.30pm (SGT): Learn about Bachelor Program from Les Roches

For interested students & parents who would like to learn more about the Bachelor programs, admission requirements, internships, scholarship & employment opportunities. Link to register

Learn about Bachelor Programs from Glion (Watch-on-demand)

Find out more about Bachelor’s in International Hospitality Business or Bachelor’s in Luxury Business from Glion from the comfort of your home, at any time!  Link to register

January 11
Thursday
11:00 PM (PHT)
Link to register

Bocconi University (Italy) –Join us for a webinar on 11 January where we will focus on Bocconi Bachelor programs and on the application process.

SAT Update

2023–24 School Year Test Dates

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.