Bonn International School Magazine | Autumn 2015 | magazine@bonn-is.de
LEGALLY BLONDE The Musical
FOREIGN MINISTER A Model UN Project
BONN MAYOR ELECTIONS STUDENT COUNCIL
On the cover: BIS students representing the United Nations member states at the Opening Ceremony of the World Conference Center Bonn.
Bonn International School e.V. Martin-Luther-King-Strasse 14, 53175 Bonn Magazine Volunteers:
Contents Sports at BIS - Results 2 Spring 2 Fall 4
Maureen Adams
BISSV Update 5
Melissa Beck
EC Activities 6
Mac Brown
Beethovenfest 2015 6
Agnieszka Boud
Legally Blonde The Musical Jr. 8
Kate Carey
Teacher Feature - 8 questions to get to know our teachers 10
Krista Ferguson
Primary Years Programme 12
Karolyn Fox
Discovering Dragon Rock 12
Janet Hannah
The Daily Five 14
Anuradha Koratkar
Why I Play Soccer 15
Natalie Niklas
Peace in our Time? by Chris Müller 16
Sonja Seitamo
Middle Years Programme 17
Jayanti Srinivas
Schüler DesignPreis 17 German B4 and B5 trip to Haus der Geschichte 18
Students: Alisa B
What is there to Celebrate? by Cijith Jacobs 19 Diploma Programme 20
Rachel F
Universities: Not Just a Grade 12 Thing 20
Elisabeth H
Theory Of Knowledge 21
Krupa V
Adventures in Austria 22
Layout and Design: Janet Hannah Alisa B (Student News pages)
Unsung Heroes 23 Room Parents 23 New Student Questionnaire 24 Student News 26
Photography:
Foreign Minister’s Visit - MUN 26
Thank you to the many
Bonn Mayoral Elections 28
community members who share
Creative Writing Club Trip to Drachenfels - A Literary Retreat 29
their photos.
Community News 30 Youth Group 30
Printing:
Memories from Graduation 31
The Happy Printer, Bonn.
International Day 32
magazine@bonn-is.de
OktoberFest 34 Biking on the Rhine 35 The World Irish Dance Association Finals 36 Alumni 37
A special thank you to Mac Brown for her invaluable help with our previous issue and apologies for omitting her as a volunteer in that issue
1
s t l u s e R G SPRIN During the spring season, BIS teams compete in track and field, softball, girls’ football, tennis and cricket. Season ending tournaments are organised by the Northwest European Council of International Schools (NECIS).
Track and Field A BIS squad of 51 athletes travelled to Copenhagen at the end
Under 16 Girls
of May to compete in the NECIS Track and Field Championships.
Alejandra MC
The team delighted both coaches and supporters by winning a total of 31 medals over the two day meet. The top individual results are listed below. Under 12 Girls Amelie S
400 metres
1st
High jump
3rd
Natalia MC
Long jump
3rd 2nd
High jump
2nd
Elena P
400 metres
3rd
60 metres mini hurdles
3rd
Under 12 Boys Adam V
2nd
200 metres 80 metre hurdles
1st 2nd
100 metres
3rd
High jump
3rd
Under 16 Boys
Long jump
1st
Tinashe M
Isabella M
400 metres
3rd
Olivia C
800 metres
3rd
Sophia B
Long jump
3rd
Bulcsu L
Jason DV Anthony F
Softball This year’s softball NECIS was held in May at the American International School of Rotterdam. Teams are mixed. Our Junior Varsity team came second and the Varsity team fourth. Junior Varsity
2nd
Varsity
4th
2
1st
80 metre hurdles
100 metres
Karolina V
3rd
High jump Andrea J
Luke W
Under 14 Girls
100 metres
Long jump
3rd
Turbo javelin
1st
Standing long jump
3rd
Discus
3rd
200 metres
3rd
100 metre hurdles
1st
Long jump
2nd
Triple jump
1st
Shot put
2nd
s n o g a r d o G
Girls’ Football
Cricket
The NECIS Girls’ Football Tournament again took place at BIS this
BIS cricket has continued to grow. This year’s mixed squad of 21
year, with the BIS community hosting teams from eight competing
players included students from Grades 6 to 11 and trained twice
schools. This year’s tournament also included U12 teams for the
a week throughout the season. Coaches Timothy Johnson and
first time. Our own U12 team was fourth, the U15 team seventh
Jason Walsh (who is the German national team’s assistant coach)
and the Varsity Girls were third. The U15 team were voted the
fielded teams comprising both experienced and inexperienced
Most Sporting Team.
players in matches, rather than play a first or second team. BIS won two of its five matches, and also entered two teams in the first
U12
4th
U15
7th (Most Sporting Team)
Varsity
3rd
ever end of season cricket tournament at St George’s in Cologne. New players are welcome next season!
Tennis In May, the inaugural BIS tennis team participated alongside seven other schools in the NECIS Tennis Tournament at Hamburg International School. Our nine players represented the school with great success and achieved some fantastic individual results.
There was no NECIS rugby tournament this year. However, ten
Boys’ Singles Paulo K
Level 2
Bronze
Pietro M
Level 3
Gold
Hugo S
Level 4
Bronze
Level 4
Bronze
Level 2
Silver
Girls’ Singles Maja R Boys’ Doubles Pietro M/Hugo S
Rugby BIS students participated in the United World Games in Klagenfurt am Wörthersee, Austria, in June. The United World Games bring together more than 400 teams of young athletes from more than 30 countries to compete in a variety of sports. The BIS students were part of a U16 rugby team formed in cooperation with the local Bonn-Rhein-Sieg rugby club and were able to enjoy not only the sport but also all the fun of being involved in a tournament billed as the Olympic Games for young people. 3
s t l u s e R L L FA The Fall season saw BIS teams participating in football, volleyball and cross country with season-ending NECIS and ISST tournaments in November.
Cross-country The cross country team, made up of athletes from Grades 6 to 12, competed over the season in Frankfurt, Luxembourg, Antwerp and Amsterdam and personal best times were recorded by many. BIS hosted a successful ISST Division II Championship, which saw over 170 athletes from nine visiting schools setting an extremely high standard over a challenging 5km course through the Kottenforst in Bad Godesberg. ISST Division II results
Football NECIS tournaments were held in The Hague for the Under 12 and Under 14 Boys and in Amsterdam for the Junior Varsity Boys football. The Varsity Girls football went to London and JV Girls volleyball teams. The Varsity Girls football team went to London to play in their ISST tournament, while the Varsity Boys travelled to Paris. Their tournament had to be cut short due to
Cross country team
5th
JV Girls team
5th
Varsity Girls team
4th
JV Boys team
7th
Varsity Boys team
7th
JV Girls Race
Hugo P
4th
Varsity Girls Race
Carla A
7th
NECIS Results 6th (2nd in Plate)
Under 14 Boys
4th (4th in Cup)
Junior Varsity Boys
6th (2nd in Plate)
ISST Division II results Varsity Girls
5th - Louise S and Olivia M (Grade 12) named to All-Tournament Team
ISST Division III results Varsity Boys
3rd - No All-Tournament team this year
Volleyball The Under 12 and Under 14 teams travelled to The Hague to compete in their season ending NECIS tournaments. They came first and second in the Plate respectively. The Junior Varsity and Varsity Girls teams travelled to Amsterdam and came third and fifth in the Plate tournament. NECIS Results Under 12 Girls Under 14 Girls JV Girls
5th (Plate winners) 6th (2nd in Plate) 8th (3rd in Plate)
Varsity Girls
10th (5th in Plate)
4
6th 8th
JV Boys Race
the terrorist attacks in the city. Under 12 Boys
Sarah B Olivia C
UPDATE Bonn International School Sportverein e.V. (BISSV) is a club providing sports activities throughout the year. The aim of BISSV is to integrate our teams into the local sporting community to develop stronger host country relationships. Membership is open to Bonn International School and the wider Bonn community.
New club coordinator
Tennis
Rene Glinkowski is the new BISSV club coordinator. Rene is
Twice weekly tennis coaching started at the end of September
Bavarian, but has lived in Cologne for the last 20 years. He has been
with Peter Henseler at the Robinson Wellfit Park in Pennenfeld.
passionate about sport all his life and over the years has competed
Peter is an experienced adult and junior coach. Places are still
in tennis, basketball, football, ice hockey and athletics. Rene is
available for anyone interested.
also a licensed tennis trainer and holds coaching qualifications
Swimming
for a variety of other sports. He is based in the EC Activities office in the Agora building.
BISSV offers swimming in cooperation with the Schwimm- und
Football
Sportfreunde Club (SSF) at Sportpark Nord in Bonn. Swimming
BISSV now has three football teams, F-Jugend, E-Jugend and
sessions with guided coaching for other swimmers. Members also
D-Jugend, with a total of 74 players. Practices take place twice
have the opportunity to train with SSF teams and swim in the local
a week. The teams are in the Fussballverband Mittelrhein (FVM)
league. All members have free entry every day to the SSF pool.
league and play weekend matches against other league teams. The football club needs volunteers to help with weekend games and practices. Please contact Rene if you can offer your time.
lessons are offered for non-swimmers as well as Sunday training
Recreational sports Badminton, Basketball and Indoor Football for adults. BISSV currently has 18 basketball players, seven badminton
Running The running club has 22 members and trains twice a week on the fields adjacent to BIS with Gary Wilberforce and new coach Simon Misof, who has been running for LAV Bonn Bad Godesberg since he was ten. All runners are eligible to take part in competitions
players and 10 indoor football players with weekly practices in the Waves Sports Hall.
Future plans As the club expands, plans are underway for adult cheerleading.
run by the Leichtathletik-Verband Nordrhein. Anyone wishing to participate or help out should contact Rene at bissv@bonn-is.de. 5
BEETHOVENFEST2015 To kick off the month long Beethoven Festival, there was a day long Bühne frei (open stage) on Saturday, 5 September 2015. Seven open air stages were set up around the city. It was a busy day. I performed several pieces with the BIS Band, as well as a solo violin piece. My brother and sister also performed with their Gymnasium’s (local high school) orchestra. BIS primary and secondary choirs took the stage as well. With seven stages and six hours of music, as luck would have it, I was playing with the BIS Band at the exact same time my siblings were performing at the other end of the city. My parents were scrambling to see us all play. On top of that, it started to rain just before we took the stage. Since water and humidity are enemies of string instruments, all of us with violins and violas huddled under a tent and were escorted to the stage under umbrellas. A few hours earlier, I performed a solo violin piece by Fiocco, an Italian composer. My violin teacher, Hirotaka Aisawa, accompanied me on piano. Stage fright isn’t a problem for me because I started playing the violin over 10 years ago, when I was five. For nine years I had two lessons a week. Now I play in BIS Band and the Strings Ensemble. I have a local violin lesson each week as well as a Skype fiddle lesson with my teacher in the US. Most of the stress for performances comes from having the right clothes to wear, showing up on time, and making sure my violin is in my case when I leave the
“I think it’s great that the city of Bonn gives local students the chance to showcase their talent.”
house (yes, I have on several occasions opened my case to find my violin was not there). I first learned about Ludwig Von Beethoven when I was five years old, and that he was born in Bonn, Germany. I never thought that someday I’d be playing violin in the same city at a festival in his name. I think it’s great that the city of Bonn gives local students the chance to showcase their talent. Brennan A, Grade 10.
6
EXPERIENCE OUR EXTRAORDINARY SELECTION AND STATE-OF-THE-ART CRAFTSMANSHIP
Address: Alte Bahnhofstr. 12, D-53173 Bonn-Bad Godesberg, Germany
Phone: +49(0)228-362331
email: info@juwelier-schumann.de
www.juwelier-schumann.de
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The October 2015 BIS Musical was a fun production about a California girl who will do anything for love... even
get into Harvard Law School! Sorority President Elle Woods thought that her long-time boyfriend Warner was going to pop the question at dinner one night, when he actually dumped her! Madly in love, she pledged to get him back at all costs. However, this entailed
many unimaginable feats that baffled and amused all. Since rehearsals began in May, our cast learn ed man y diffe rent tips and techniques which improved our vocal abilities as well as theatrical skills. One technique that was used
often in the perfo rman ce was the so-called shoulder touching. This was a stage maneuver executed by the characters many times throughout
the show to dem onst rate bond s
8
between characters and indicate a romantic connection. Rehearsals for these scenes were always enjoyable beca use the mean ing behin d the movements often had to be explained. Sometimes we joked around about interactions between characters, which provided lots of comic relief during long rehearsals. It was silly, but the skills were acquired nonetheless. Body language was another element each char acte r had to focu s on developing. Elle, for example, was always very bubbly and had a happy,
positive attitude towards everything, sometimes to an aggravating point! A strong contrast was Vivienne, who was supposed to be a haughty, negative
The Musical JR
character who was kind of a bore.
strong facial expressions and keeping
She changed in the end and became
our faces up during the show. Cheating
friends with Elle, but when they clashed
out occurred when actors faced the
the difference was made clear, often
audience when speaking, even when
with simple crossed arms or hands
the conversation was upstage. This
on hips.
was so the audience could see the
A similar contrast was evident between the sorority girls and the law students. Often played by the same people, personalities had to be vastly different. The sorority girls were similar to Elle, constantly smiling, talking amongst themselves and generally buzzing around, whereas the law students were
actions and expressions. Next, we had to remember that the audience was not always close, so all facial expressions had to be exaggerated in order for everyone to see them. Finally, we were taught to keep our chins up and our eyes up because the stage lights cast shadows over any faces tilted down.
stony-faced, still and very grave overall.
Legally Blonde was not only
The entire cast now appreciates the
extremely enjoyable to perform, but
effect body language can have on a
it also enriched our theatrical skills
production.
and abilities. A huge thank you to
Another technique we developed was voice projection. Many cast members weren’t used to being on stage, and those who didn’t have microphones had to work on volume. Other stage tricks we learned were cheating out,
the directors, Mr and Mrs Szalay. Thank you to the great audiences and backstage crew who supported us, and congratulations to all of the performers. Kaitlyn F, Grade 9.
THE CAST Elle Woods Tess L Eleanor T Vivienne Kensington Paulette Marina A Brooke Wyndham Kaitlyn F Chutney Wyndham/Saleswoman Maria A Margot Kate G/Eleanor L Zoe J Serena Pilar Makela J Kate Alice G Kiki the Colorist Caitlin B Winthrop / Judge Kelma J Isabella M Sabrina Deb Nathalie C Enid Hoopes Rahnya T Store Manager Monica F Whitney Abigail C Sundeep Agrawal Padamadan Yasmin E Warner Huntington III Brennan A/ Max-Antoine M Emmett Forrest Alejandro P/Hernan R Professor Callahan Bernardo R Kyle/Pforzheimer Nicholas K Grandmaster Chad/Jet Blue Pilot Eoghan B Dewey/Lowell James W Aaron Schultz Miguel A Ensemble Alexander dS Kimberley K Johanna O Susan J Maria Isabella B Serin O Backstage Laura R Katrina R Kaldoun R Donald R Shaquille B Khalifa aK
9
Eike Gerhard
Teacher Feature Geena George
Apart from teaching, what else did you want to do? I set out as a scientist and am still very passionate about
Apart from teaching, what else did you want to do?
science. Besides science, I very much enjoy drawing and
When I was young, I was interested in becoming a fashion
painting and maybe one day I will take more time to work
designer. I must say that I have studied fashion design and
in this area.
have worked as a designer and as a merchandiser.
What fictional character would you/did you once want to be?
What fictional character would you/did you once want to be?
This is a tough question because there are so many interesting
Cinderella. I admire her character traits. Being kind, graceful,
characters in books and movies. If I had to choose just one,
patient and her positive attitude.
I would choose Jonathan Strange from the book Jonathan Strange and Mr Norrell by Susanna Clarke. I like this character because of his thirst for knowledge and his open mindedness to solving problems from an unusual angle.
What’s the naughtiest thing you did as a child? When I was young, there were many little creatures outside our house. My elder sister was very scared of centipedes. Once I caught some centipedes in a glass bottle, wrapped
What’s the naughtiest thing you did as a child?
it nicely with a colour paper and gave it to her as a present.
I cannot possibly answer this question. I was always the most
When she opened it, she screamed and started running. I
well behaved child you could imagine.
followed her with the glass jar and made her run around the
If you had to choose a last meal, what would it be?
house a few times until my parents caught me.
I cannot possibly choose between the many delicious things
If you had to choose a last meal, what would it be?
one could eat. My only request would be that it does not have
It would have to be south Indian. First preference is rice with
licorice in it, as I really do not enjoy that taste.
different types of curries.
What three things you would take on a desert island and why?
What three things you would take on a desert island and why?
Water filter: No life without safe, fresh water.
Book:
A sketch book to do some drawings.
Knife:
As my all-purpose tool.
Music:
Some music for entertainment.
Compass:
For navigating the oceans to get back home.
Other:
I would make sure that I take the return ticket
Which chores you hate the most?
with me as well.
Changing the linen on beds. I always get tangled up in
Which chores you hate the most?
everything or forget to do it until I’m tired and want to go to bed.
Cleaning dirty dishes and folding clothes.
What are your favorite spare time activities?
What are your favorite spare time activities?
Drawing and cooking are some of my favourite things to do
To be honest, it is really hard to find spare time when you
when I have more than just a minute to spare. Unfortunately
are a mom of a teenager and a three year old and working
the two do not combine well and so I have to take breaks
full time. I would answer this question by saying if I ever had
from one to do the other.
some spare time, I would love to do some sewing and painting.
What is your greatest achievement to date?
What is your greatest achievement to date?
Being a kind person to others. It is something we can all do
My greatest achievement has been keeping a balance between
but have to choose to do.
work and my family time.
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Simon Grimmer
Renette Robichaud
8 questions to get to know our teachers
Apart from teaching, what else did you want to do? I’ve always wanted to be an astronaut. I find space such a fascinating thing. However, I watched the movie Apollo 13. It made me change my mind, because all the astronauts died during this mission. What fictional character would you/did you once want to be? This is a tough question, I don’t think I’ve ever wanted to be a fictional character. What’s the naughtiest thing you did as a child? I used to draw on the walls of my bedroom and blame it on my younger sister. And the best part was that she actually got into trouble! I apologized to my parents later on, as a teenager. If you had to choose a last meal, what would it be? Does a hot fudge brownie count as a meal? It would have to be something with chocolate for sure. What three things you would take on a desert island and why? I would bring my favorite blanket, because I always use one for comfort, even in the summer. I would drag my cat for company. I would bring some music to dance around and sing out loud. Since this is a desert island, no one can hear my terrible singing. Which chores you hate the most? I absolutely hate doing the dishes. I once paid (in pizza) a friend to do my dishes. What are your favorite spare time activities? I love to make puzzles (1000 pieces or more) and read bad fiction novels. I am also a huge traveller, so most weekends I am out exploring a new place in Europe. What is your greatest achievement to date? I’ve always dreamed of working abroad. That finally happened in 2014 when I moved to Stuttgart, Germany. Every time I
Apart from teaching, what else did you want to do? As a child, I always wanted to be a builder. I almost became a helicopter pilot instead of an international teacher, and I have always harbored an interest in being a professional athlete. At some stage in my life, I will most likely become a farmer in New Zealand. What fictional character would you/did you once want to be? As a child, I wanted to be Peter Pan and often played at being Robin Hood with my brother. What’s the naughtiest thing you did as a child? I set fire to a small forest at the age of seven playing with matches. I then hid and it was my mother who had to notify the fire brigade. If you had to choose a last meal what would it be? A steaming pot of NZ mussles with coriander and coconut milk, with risotto Milanese and a nice Belgian beer and NZ Pinot Gris. That or a Bratwurst mit Brötchen. What three things you would take on a desert island and why? History of Western Philosophy by Bertrand Russel (a lot of time on my hands to read and ponder) Snorkel and mask (for recreation and foraging) Swiss army knife or Leatherman (self explanatory) Which chores you hate the most? Nothing is a chore (I try to adopt a zen-like approach to life) What are your favorite spare time activities? Spending time with my wife and two boys, running in the forest for extended periods of time. Being outdoors in general.
achieve something big, it makes me want to push further and
What is your greatest achievement to date?
try more adventures.
Bringing a happy and healthy young family to live in Bonn. 11
DISCOVERING
PYP
The Drachenfels, or Dragon Rock, is practically in our back yard and comes with its own legend. One of the most famous legends is that of Siegfried, who slayed the dragon living in a cave on the mountain. Although there have been no dragons spotted on this mountain in recent years, there were excited Grade 5 and 6 students from BIS at the beginning of September. The Music and German departments used this fun tourist site to bring learning to the students in a wonderfully creative way. According to music teacher Kathleen Szalay, the students were in their first unit of study called Music Inspired by our Area. They researched and listened to music from The Ring Cycle by Wagner, which includes music that was inspired by
Students also learned about
the Rhine River. These students then
Siegfried and Drachenfels
created movements and pantomime,
in German in their language
to act out the
acquisition class, as they read
different parts of the
various tales such as Eine
music for a visual
Legende Ăźber den Drachenfels,
representation. They
Siebengebergelegende and Die
a l s o re s e a rc h e d
Schiffer vom Rhein and Nibelungenlegende.
and listened to the music of
Advanced German learners used the tale
Beethoven, inspired by the forest in
of Siegfried der DrachentĂśter as a way of
the Siebengeberge. The students took
finding elements of a legend in stories. Each
photographs during the field trip of
grade and language level did something a
the surrounding area. These were used to
bit different, but in the end, the students all
create Popplets on their iPads.
went to Drachenfels with images of dragons, dragon slayers or giants in mind.
12
DRAGON ROCK Primary Years Programme
At the summit, the students found the ruins of the Drachenfels
One student said she liked the interpretation with the various
Castle and amazing views of the Rhine. When asked what they
layers, while another, who also acted, said by the end she was
saw, of course they all recognized the Deutsche Post building, but
dizzy from twirling (perhaps representing the river current), but
also the beauty of the area. One student was quite taken with just
loved performing.
how green it was around there.
A visit to Castle Drachenburg, halfway up to the Dragon Rock, led
In talking with some students about the trip, they indicated that
to comments about the beautiful paintings and that the furniture
they enjoyed the adventure of riding the U-bahn to and from
looked like something for a princess.
the mountain, including the walk through the Rheinaue to get to the U-Bahn station. For some, it was their first time on public transportation. Every student mentioned the visit to the Reptile House, the chance to ride the cog railway to the top, and climbing on the ruins of the castle.
Anything the students would change? Eat lunch earlier was the only thing they could come up with. This trip was a great experience bringing both language and arts learning together in a wonderfully historic setting. It also enabled the students to connect with each other at the beginning of the school year, to then have the rest of the year to develop these new
Students from Grade 5 performed songs and a drama scene
friendships that were initiated on their way up to the legendary
from the musical 7Mountains (composed by our very own music
Dragon Rock
teacher, Marc Unkel). Grade 6 students reenacted the slaying of the dragon by Siegfried and the movement of the Rhine River.
Krista Ferguson, Parent.
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4 1325
43 25
What is
1
The Daily Five? The Daily Five is a classroom structure developed by authors and educators, Gail Boushey and Joan Moser, who are often dubbed “The two sisters”. It is a structure adopted by countless schools and teachers.
PYP
Read to Self
5
Read to Someone
Listen to Reading
If you do it everyday, you will get better and better - just like when you practice sports. It helps your reading and writing get stronger.
Work on Writing
Owen W, student now in Grade 2.
I have taught primary school for ten years and I love, love, love The Daily 5! It has forever changed my teaching and my students’ learning! It ensures a balanced literacy approach, ample independent practice time, and is differentiated by its very nature! The Daily 5 looks different in each classroom but the unifying element is the five activities happening concurrently: Read to Self, Read to Someone, Listen to Reading, Work on Writing, and Word Work. Teachers tailor the structure to fit their classroom needs. In my classroom, I have modified the structure to include a technology table where students use iPads to play phonics apps, spelling games or create e-books. There is an element of student choice inherent in The Daily 5 as each day the students choose their activity. In order to ensure balance, students are required to complete all five activities before repeating one. If you were to walk into my classroom during The Daily 5, you would hear the busy hum of activity that often accompanies a room full of children. Around the room you would see children actively engaged in language activities designed to promote their 14
Word Work
developing literacy skills. Some students would be gathered with me at the teacher table reading leveled books, learning decoding and comprehension strategies as well as participating in phonics lessons, and writing in reader’s response notebooks. Elsewhere, several students would be playing phonics games on iPads while still others would be listening to books on Raz-Kids. In corners or on carpets, many kids would either be reading independently or with a partner. My teaching assistant, Alma Dreyer, would be actively engaging students with spelling practice or analyzing word families through our school-adopted Words Their Way series. At tables, a couple of children would be writing in journals or in story booklets, illustrating and working hard to sound out words to write phonetically. The Daily 5 is a treasured time in my day where together, the students and I have a comfortable, productive working environment. Everyone knows what to do and can do it independently with the shared goal of becoming better readers and writers!
Abby Button, Teacher.
r e ! c c
So
Why I Play
Primary Years Programme “Without football my life is worth nothing”
r, “What I do is play socceMessi el which is what I like” Lion
CR7
Football is one of my favorite sports. It is as
In the third quarter, the team scored another
if my legs are my hands. In the Dictionary,
goal, but I was sad as I was not called to
sports means exercise, reaction, game. For
play for the team. But the team goal was
me, it is just a way of keeping my body fit,
fabulous - a header goal! Finally, in the
strong and healthy, so that I can keep on
fourth and last quarter, the coach called me
playing.
and I got a chance to play for the team in
I would like to share an experience of our team’s finest game this
the position of left-mid. In this position, I was expected to make many long passes, one of them was
year (2015).
a lovely one and with that, one
We were warming up and
of my teammates scored (4:0).
getting ready for a match
At the end, an opponent also
against the International School of
scored with a free kick, but we didn’t
Amsterdam. Our coach told us about the
care as we were already the winners (4:1).
team composition and informed us that we
Great thanks to my coach for giving me an
were playing in quarters (10 minutes each).
opportunity to be a part of the winning team
In the first quarter, I was a substitute and saw
and to my wonderful team who inspired me
that the team scored a goal, which cheered
to tell you about this story.
BIS up. In the second quarter, the team scored another goal. The player received a cross and gently passed it into the net.
Dhimaan B, Grade 5
15
Peace In Our Time? To speak of true peace is to speak of something that has never existed. It is a
goal we all strive for, but as long as people
have lived on this earth, violence and war have always dominated the news.
Fortunately we are past the point where beating children into submission is the
norm. Too many children in the past had
Today, world leaders meet regularly at
their first lessons in violence when physical
summits with the aim of preventing violence.
means were used to correct behavior. We
They talk of reducing the capacity of nations
now know the long-term effects of such
to stockpile arms. Unfortunately and all too
child-rearing, and how it perpetuates the
often they want others to reduce, without
cycle of violence. At the same time, we
wanting to reduce their own capacities.
also know that children need to grow
No surprise then, that fear of violence
up with structures and consequences
dominates in every one of us. Yet we all desire peace. Should we not think of a future peaceful world from a
for inappropriate behavior. This can be achieved through the promotion of mutual respect, through expressions of love.
brand new perspective? In order to do this,
The famous German children’s author,
we need to start at the beginning – with
Astrid Lindgren, once told a story of a
our children. They are the ones who will
parent who sent their child to the garden
lead those summits in the future, and who
to look for a suitable stick, so he could give
will lead the businesses that perpetuate
the child a hiding. The child took ages to
systems. They are the ones who will make
return. When he eventually came in, he was
the choice between war and peace. They
in a flood of tears. He told his father that he
will determine the society they wish to live in.
hadn’t found a stick. Instead, he had found
They will choose whether to further escalate
a stone. The child clearly believed that since
the arms race or opt for peace.
his dad wanted to hurt him, he may as well
One of the most important lessons we can teach them is that non-violent alternatives are possible and that each individual person is capable of making a difference in society. Historically, it has always been a few strong individuals who determined the fate of
do it with a stone. Recognizing the impact of his potentially violent act, the father took his son in his arms and comforted him. He then placed the stone on the mantelpiece. This served as a permanent reminder to him never to resort to violence.
many. They too were once children. The
Our children experience much violence, be
way in which they were raised determined
it through media, the internet or observation.
the path they chose to take. Whether a child grows up to be a peace-loving, reliable, open and honest person, or whether the child grows into a cold, destructive and selfish person, is determined by those people in whom the child places trust. We always learn from those we love. 16
It is not possible to shelter them from the experience. If left unaddressed however, they may accept it as normal. We must all be examples to them that prove there is an alternative. Let us all be mindful of our words and actions and consider putting a stone on our mantelpiece to remind us. Chris Müller, Director.
R E L Ü H C S SIGN DE EIS PR Middle Years Programme BIS recently sent eight projects, created by students in Stefan Ille’s Grade 10 Product Design class last semester, to the 7th German Re cycl i n g Des i g n Pre is . In th e student/vocational trainee category, 110 projects were entered, and 15 were chosen for exhibition at the Marta Herford Design Museum. Congratulations to BIS students Ignacio and Chloe, whose projects were among the final 15 selected for the exhibition. Chloe’s project also received second place honors, and she accepted her award on 6 September at the opening ceremony at the Marta Herford Museum. On the day that I started work on my beehive lamp, Mr Ille was explaining to my Product Design class that during our new project, we would be almost solely
Ironically, a few months later I was standing
general. I’m so thankful I was able to have
on a stage in Herford, Germany, receiving a
this experience, and I would not have been
second place certificate for the lamp I had
able to, if it were not for Mr Ille discovering
built. Truthfully, I’m not entirely sure how
this competition and his support from
I managed this; even though I did work
when I began planning my lamp to when I
tirelessly on my violently yellow lamp, I
received my certificate.
know many of the other competitors were dedicated to working on their products as
Chloe F, Grade 11.
well. But perhaps the visual use of organic and inorganic materials in my lamp was particularly fascinating to the judges. Whatever the reason, my project was chosen over a hundred others. I learned an indescribable amount about design from my short visit to the museum in Herford. It was incredible getting to see all the other projects students had sent in, as well as the products made on a professional level for a different recycling competition happening at the same time. While I was there, I was able to converse with various designers about their products and about design in
working with materials that are reused or non-recyclable. He explained that there was a competition where a group called Recycling Design Preis was collecting products created by high schoolers, and that when we completed our projects we could submit them. As I was hearing all this I thought, “Okay, cool. I’m not going to turn my project in, but it should be fun to make.”
Chloe’s award-winning lamp was made of recycled materials, including copper wire from an old power line, used (and washed) plastic spoons, yellow spray paint, and driftwood from the Rhine. 17
German B4 and B5 (Frau Reck-Brakmann and Herr Duarte)
Field Trip to the Haus der Geschichte In our German class, we have been learning about the Cold War and the Berlin Wall. We went to the museum Haus der Geschichte and visited its great library where we were easily able to learn everything about this period of time. We were also able to learn much about this topic in the museum itself thanks to our great guide.
MYP problems between the United States and
it. To make every child go, the government
the USSR. Many people were affected by
did not allow the children that did not
this, especially in Berlin. Berlin had been
join the FDJ to go to university and have
split up into two sides as well, the west and
a proper education. This was a way of
the east. The west was controlled by the
manipulating people.
BRD and the east by the DDR. The lifestyle and living conditions in the east were so deficient and insufficient that many people The museum taught us multiple things. After the end of WW2, Germany was split into different parts. The countries that took part
would migrate to the west. This is why in 1961, the DDR built the Berlin Wall.
But this sort of regime in the east did not last forever, as during 1989, the people of Leipzig started demonstrating against the government. They started off with small demonstrations in a church, but they
in this were Great Britain, the USSR (Union
The construction of the wall caused many
quickly caught on and had over 100,000
of Soviet Socialist Republics), France and
issues as the people could not leave. They
people taking part in the demonstrations.
the United States of America. These were
had to live in a communist state. They were
known as the Allies during WW2, but once
told what to do and were controlled by the
the war ended, the alliance ended. It ended
government. The government controlled the
because the USSR had a communist
people in many different way. One of them
ideology, whereas the other allies had a
was with the FDJ (Freie Deutsche Jugend).
democratic ideology. This is why Germany
This was a place where children would go
was split up into two parts, the West and
and do activities such as going camping,
the East. The West side was supported by
etc. They learned about the government
the United States and Western Allies and
that ruled over them and learned to support
the East was controlled by the USSR. The East called themselves the DDR (Deutsche Demokratische Republik). The West was known as the BRD (Bundesrepublik Deutschland). The rivalry between the USA and the USSR triggered the Cold War. This war was not the usual war with guns and violence, it was a war with spies. This war caused many 18
So many people joined these peaceful demonstrations that the DDR had nothing to do but bring down the wall. This is what they did in November 1989. With the fall of the wall, the USSR and the rest of the allies left Germany and in 1990 Germany became an independent and reunited country like it had been before the war. Martin HS, Grade 10.
Heart attack at 39!
WHAT IS
THERE TO
CELEBRATE?
In April 2015, I survived my massive heart attack. While this was an enormous shock to me and my family, it also made me realize I had very many reasons to celebrate. Things that most of us ignore on a day-to-day basis. I had reasons to celebrate when I finally had the strength to hold a glass of water, when I was able to stand up after three days of being immobile on the hospital bed, when I was able to walk a few steps, when I saw my family around me, when I could come back to work and be
• Know that many people would wish to live your life just the way it is. • Do not take anything for granted as nothing lasts for long. • Know that you are unique and special and can contribute to make this world a better place.
with my students, colleagues and friends.
• There is a reason behind everything that happens in life.
My heart attack made me appreciate and be grateful for all that
• Enjoy the moment and celebrate with joy.
I have and that I do not have. I felt the need to celebrate every little thing that we take for granted. Therefore, I would like to
So what is there for you to celebrate?
share some of my thoughts with you:
Cijith Jacobs, MYP Coordinator.
Orthodontics ORTHODONTIST DR.MED.DENT
F u n c t i o n
+
A d u l t s
C h i l d r e n
+
R e m o v a b l e
A e s t h e t i c s +
F i x e d A p p l i a n c e s
A d v a n c e d
B r a c k e t
I n v i s i b l e
A l i g n e r s
It
ASTRID WELLER-BERGMANN
starts
S y s t e m s
with
+
M o r e
a
smile...
Dr. Astrid Weller-Bergmann Beethovenallee 58 53173 Bonn-Plittersdorf Easy parking at Arndtplatz Bus 614 5 minutes to BIS Fon: 0228 184 73 74 Fax: 0228 184 73 75 www.weller-bergmann.de info@weller-bergmann.de
19
UNIVERSITIES: Not Just a Grade 12 Thing st things One of the be o is to start parents can d s conversation having those as early as with their child 9. Grades 8 and
University. That word often strikes fear into the hearts of parents and students alike. For uninitiated and unsuspecting parents, it can be daunting to think about all the work and planning their child needs to do in Grade 12 to apply to university programs.
DP
For students it can be equally overwhelming to have to figure out what they want to study, or where or how to apply, or how to write those pesky essays/personal statements. In preparation for this process, one of the best things parents can do is to start having those conversations with their child as early as Grades 8 and 9. Start asking about their favorite subjects and the reasons they find them so enjoyable. Talk about possible careers, what those jobs entail and what they see themselves doing in 20 years. Encourage the exploration of different fields of work that incorporate their passion, hobbies or interests in search of those careers that spark their interest. It is amazing to realize the number of majors of study available that never existed ten years ago. One of the most difficult things is for students in Grade 10 to pick courses needed for university when they have not considered what they might wish to study, where they might wish to study and which diploma option best meets their personal goals. Knowing what one wants to do as young as fifteen is not easy. Unfortunately many countries (except US) require that students apply to a specific program of study. This means students need to have 20
an idea of possible career fields in Grade 10 when picking courses for Grades 11 and 12. Helping your child to articulate their thoughts, creatively research online, and think outside the box allows them to begin developing concrete ideas.
In thinking about which countries or schools to which one wishes to apply, it is equally important to be aware of the testing requirements needed for various schools. Grades 9 and 10 (and maybe Grade 11) are the optimal years to be taking the PSAT to practice for the official SAT in Grade 11 for US university admissions. UK universities may require admissions testing for medicine, law, and entrance to highly competitive universities. Other countries may require general entrance testing once applications are submitted to gain admission to programs. Check out the websites for universities of interest to get a sense of what is expected. Access the resources on Managebac. Students in Grades 8-12 have all been placed in a university group where many files and documents have been uploaded as resources. One of the most overlooked and underutilized resource are the universities that visit BIS and the area. This is the perfect opportunity for students in Grades 9-12 to actively seek out those visiting BIS to ask intelligent, well-thought-out questions about programs of study, application requirements, testing requirements, fees
and more. Even if the school is one that has not typically been considered, by seeking out the information they may find options they may have never been aware of. Take the time to speak with the schools that come to BIS and if traveling in the area of schools of interest, call and arrange a campus visit. Nothing provides a sense of school character like a visit to a university campus.
In class at BIS, students have information sessions on: general career exploration (Grades 6/7), strengths inventory (Grade 8), graduation options from BIS (Grade 9), thinking about university admissions (Grade 10), career interest inventory (Grade 10), subject selection appointments (Grade 10), university research (Grade 11), university values (Grade 11), and more. Beyond the information provided in classes, there are various evening workshops throughout the school year. Some are specific to grade levels while others are open to all parents and students. These workshops are an excellent opportunity to begin the exploration process for university admissions to understand what students should be thinking about in Grades 8, 9 and 10. Encouraging students to find and harness their area of interest can be an empowering tool in working toward their future goal. Tami Albrecht, University and Careers Advisor.
Theory of Knowledge Have you ever wondered “How do I know this?” Our diploma students have a critical thinking course designed to encourage student reflection in either an individual or group setting. It is an inquiry into what knowledge actually is and how it is constructed. This course is called Theory of Knowledge (TOK) and is often referred to as the glue that holds the whole IB Diploma Programme together.
Diploma Programme TOK gives our Grade 11 and 12 students time to think about how knowledge in the Natural Sciences is fundamentally different to knowledge in History, for example. Students also explore how knowledge in Ethics, the Arts, Maths and Human Sciences is constructed. The course is about coming to terms with learning in all its forms and across all curriculum groups. It teaches them to construct questions about knowledge such as: • How does the historian assess the reliability of sources when creating knowledge? • Why is there sometimes an uneasy fit between mathematical descriptions and the world? (For example, if I had four cows and then took five away, how many would be left?) • What is the importance of form or convention in artwork? TOK at BIS is of such huge value in our diverse international community. Our students become “knowers”, and learn about their own unique perspectives on what knowledge is. They understand how it is acquired in different subject areas and how it is closely related to their unique way of knowing. TOK is about accepting the existence of multiple perspectives. Over the course of the Diploma Programme, our students become experts by coming to terms with their own knowing skills. This comes from reflecting about questions
such as these: • • • •
How do I know? Who am I? Which languages do I speak? What is my spiritual world and my relationship with that of others? • Am I a product of urban or rural upbringing? • What kind of educational systems have I attended? • Do I have a small or an extended family? • Which of these Learner Profile attributes are true for me: reflective, balanced, thinker, risk-taker, open-minded, inquirer, knowledgeable, principled, communicator, caring? • Which culture or cultures am I from? • Which media and internet sites do I use to stay informed? • How do the answers to all these questions create my unique way of knowing? All IB Diploma schools have TOK as a discrete subject with around 100 teaching hours. There are two assessment instruments in TOK. The first is the presentation, which takes place in front of a group of peers at the end of Grade 11. The second is the TOK prescribed title essay, which is written in January of Grade 12. Combined with the Extended Essay result, TOK can contribute up to three bonus points to students’ overall diploma score. A great strength of our TOK team at BIS, coordinated by Peter Owen, is the
broad range of subject specialisations each teacher brings to the course. Examples of their focuses are: Economics Peter Owen Jo Tilton Visual Art Maths Sue Bailey Lorraine Heinrichs Maths Tim Johnson History Simon Vanderkelen Language Acquisition John Duffy Language and Literature The 1987 quote of Renaud aptly states what TOK aims to achieve - “The goal is to give students and teachers themselves an opportunity to pause, to take time out to reflect upon the nature of the knowledge which they have already acquired in their classrooms or in their daily life, and to compare, contrast and analyse the processes and assumptions of the major disciplines or of their judgements.” When students internalize this goal, it helps them whenever they are discussing a point or writing a paper at university. Recently I received the following quote that shows how students use TOK in their university classes: “I am writing a paper for my intro to theology class. I found myself discussing how Moses brought about a paradigm shift in the Christian world, and I got into an interesting debate with my professor about whether or not prophets are creatures of tradition, or creators of change. Made me think of our TOK class!” (Jillian Fox, 2015 BIS Graduate) Simon Vanderkelen and Team TOK. 21
Adventures in Austria!
DP
During the school week of 7 September, our entire Grade 11 class,
years now, had guides who created a welcoming atmosphere
including selected teachers, headed off to Austria for five days to
for all students.
enjoy an action packed adventure. This trip was aimed not only at introducing us to the rigorous and demanding IB curriculum, but most importantly at developing a strong relationship with our fellow companions. These are the people with whom we will proceed through the IB Diploma for the upcoming two years.
All fun aside, since this trip was aimed at introducing us to the IB Diploma, late afternoon activities for Theory of Knowledge (TOK), Group Four Project and research for our Extended Essay were also included. These activities were always done after dinner and were to our surprise always very entertaining. The teachers put in their
Throughout the entire trip we stayed at the welcoming Haiminger
best effort to generate lively exercises to enhance our knowledge
Hof in Haimingen, Tirol, which promptly became our home.
on important aspects of the curriculum. Most especially, the TOK
Organized into rooms of about four people, we spent four short
game was enjoyed by the student body and still remains the
nights there, falling into our beds out of pure exhaustion from the
source of various inside jokes
dynamic and strenuous activities during the day. Our daily activities
amongst ourselves.
included various water sports and team bonding exercises in the morning, ranging from mini rafting and canyoning, to white water rafting. In the afternoons, we worked on academic activities. The morning activities were probably the highlight of everyone’s day and made the early wake up calls and loud knocks on our doors in the early hours somewhat bearable. The team building activities were interactive and challenging and were most highly enjoyable for everyone. The weather was very much on our side during the entire trip, with pleasant temperatures and countless hours of sun, which we enjoyed most during our free time. Faszinatour, the company which has been managing this trip with BIS for 13 22
Overall, the trip was sadly short lived, although everyone was glad to come home and relax from the exhilarating and exhausting five day trip. Countless laughs and memories were made and the time spent will always be looked back upon with delight by everyone. Isabel R, Grade 11.
Unsung Heroes Room Parents
What do you think of when someone mentions the words Room Parents? Something you would want to be? A role you would like to avoid? Or maybe it is a completely new term to you? Each year in the BIS Primary School, there is an enthusiastic group of parents who volunteer for this role across all grades. From the basic definition of this task, the responsibilities include: • supporting the teacher by planning
Every turn at being a Room Parent can be different (new class of students with their respective parents, new teacher, new
age level), which results in the role being constantly dynamic and always evolving. Being a Room Parent also offers an inside look at how the school operates and who the school staff are. As a volunteer, these parents are acting as a great example for the students, illustrating the benefits of giving back to the community.
activities and food for classroom
Probably one of the most rewarding
celebrations in addition to providing
aspects of being a Room Parent is meeting
assistance with field trips or special
new parents and making great friendships.
classroom projects
This always starts by having just one thing
• organizing class funds that are used
in common, and in this case it is children
for funding gifts (for teachers, teacher
in the same grade and a desire to be part
assistants, children leaving BIS) and
of the action.
class events • welcoming parents through the means
Krista Ferguson, Parent.
of coffee mornings • supporting the Parent Volunteers (PV). The Room Parents do all of that, but beyond this, they really are the magic ingredient of every Primary School year. Because of these indispensable volunteers helping our teachers, planning celebrations and communicating with parents in the classroom, school becomes a much more entertaining and organized place.
If you know of an unsung BIS hero or heroine who deserves to be sung about in future editions of Waves magazine, please contact magazine@bonn-is.de.
23
New Student Questionnaire Questionnaires were filled in by students joining our school for the 2015-2016 school year. Participation was optional and their responses were selected and combined.
1
Tell us about your best day here?
My first day because everyone was so welcoming. I had been dreading the first day of school for a long time. Was I going to fit in? Would people like me? How long would it take to make friends? So many unknowns. I had never changed schools in my life – 10 years in the same school. BUT my first day at BIS was beaut. (Australian for fantastic). Everyone was so welcoming, helpful and happy. When I made the volleyball team. The first day because everyone was relaxed and I had double PE. Hiking to and visiting Drachenfels castle. When we watched videos and ate popcorn. When I went to see my new school. I saw many children from around the world and I made friends. School struck me because it was a very large building with a restaurant and a coffee area and it was very clean and the classrooms very large. Indoor recess and the games we play. I am enjoying everyday, but usually the best days are when we have double PE, then I am the happiest. A Friday when I got invited to play. We went to Japanese dinner that night. Taking the plane to Germany!
Many thanks to the following students who took time to participate in this questionnaire: Aidan, Grade 5, US • Oraianthi, Grade 5, Greece • Paulina, Grade 5, Mexico 24
2
Which word describes your experience so far?
Good
Fun New
Difficult
Awesome
Mysterious
Surprising
5
What is your favorite new food?
Sausage with potatoes and the fried potatoes in a cone with ketchup. Cordon bleu with potatoes Schnitzel Sushi Apfelschorle Pasta
3
What is the funniest or weirdest thing that you have experienced since your move?
Donuts Crepes
I felt both nervous and excited because I was about to meet new people and places. Going to German class. Lots of funny things happen in class or when I am talking to friends. To have an iPad. Going to this school. Being in school with people that are practically adults. Seeing someone running around in a super hero costume. My German class one day when a teacher said a not nice thing to me. When my friend interviewed me for this article when we were on a field trip.
4
Describe your biggest challenge since arriving.
To learn new languages and to meet new people
Getting a school ID Finding my way around
To learn English We still don’t have Internet The football team
Getting over jet lag Facing rain Accepting that I am here.
Starting school
Mathis, Grade 5, France • Sam, Grade 5, US • Finn, Grade 5, Australia • Prestin, Grade 5, US • Brian, Grade 5, US Grace, Grade 6, Ireland • Vid, Grade 8, Croatia • Liam, Grade 8, Australia • Tobias, Grade 9, Germany • Florence, Grade 9, England. 25
Foreign Minister’s Visit - MUN Following a short introduction in which Herr Steinmeier talked about the goal of securing everlasting world peace and building bridges between different cultures and societies, we proceeded to the actual event: the Q&A session. It does not happen everyday that the Foreign Minister of a national heavyweight such as Germany comes around to answer your questions, so we tried to be as professional as possible. We decided to structure the session by having one interviewer pose a question, to which Herr Steinmeier got the right to reply, followed by the next interviewer asking the next question. The two most heartfelt answers, and to our understanding the most politically brilliant, were those regarding Northern Africa’s and Europe’s role as a united entity in coping with the refugee influx. He talked about the need to stabilize the nations of On 3 September 2015 we were very lucky to welcome the Federal Foreign Minister of Germany, Frank-Walter Steinmeier to BIS. He was hosted by members of the BIS Model United Nations club. Having first toured the school, Minister Steinmeier, or Herr Steinmeier as he would want us to call him, took the time to hold a seminar with all students from Grade 11 and 12 in the Agora foyer. The seminar focused little on German politics and we really took the time to question the Foreign Minster about world affairs. As a top ranking cabinet member of the fourth largest economy and third largest contributor to the UN budget, Herr Steinmeier has been involved in many major political decisions over the last three years. For example, he took part in the recent summit talks about Iran’s nuclear future in Lausanne, Switzerland, and Vienna, Austria. He is also currently involved in the peace process in both Eastern-Ukraine and North-Africa/Middle-East.
26
Northern Africa, not by military force but by political dialogue, which would allow for democracy and freedom to grow roots. Herr Steinmeier went on to talk about the reluctance of some European/Western nations to take in a fair amount of refugees and how Germany, a nation that expects to take in more than 800,000 refugees in 2015, can turn reluctance into willingness. When watching politicians on TV we feel disconnected from them; we have never been part of any real political debate, have never stepped foot into a summit hall with the likes of Putin, Obama, Xi Jinping, Cameron and Hollande, have never signed anything into law and have only a fraction of the power that individuals such as Herr Steinmeier have. But amidst this contrast of different realities, a surprisingly charismatic, honest and well-versed man arose. One can appreciate Herr Steinmeier for his humanity and his thoughtful actions. Michael B, Grade 12.
Foreign Minister’s Visit DP German A Dr Frank-Walter Steinmeier, Germany’s Federal Foreign Minister, visited BIS on 3 September 2015. As part of his visit, he discussed Georg Büchner’s play Woyzeck with students from Ms Waeder’s DP German A Literature course. Social determinism plays a key role in this literary work, which is why our class chose to study whether this type of determinism can still be observed today. We decided to concentrate on the chances children have of receiving education and completing secondary school. As each student had either previously lived or studied in a different country, we chose to research and compare the education systems of Germany, Switzerland, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, Kazakhstan, the Czech Republic, and the United States of America. In the case of Germany, we looked at North Rhine-Westphalia and Bavaria, as each state has its own educational policies. In particular, we looked at rights to education, types of schooling available, enrollment rates and graduation rates. We were all very nervous when the time came to talk about our findings, but we gradually relaxed in the course of the discussion. While Dr Steinmeier did not share his opinion on the subject matter, the discussion was interesting because he shared anecdotes from his visits to, and knowledge of, these countries and really engaged with us. What fascinated me the most was that though children in all of these countries had a right to education, and were even obliged to attend school until a certain age, the quality of education received varied significantly. It was a very exciting visit and our class was honored to be given this opportunity. The discussion was a great reminder of how what we learn in school ties in with issues present in real life. Elisabeth H, Grade 12.
27
Bonn Mayoral Elections
This year, Student Council was fortunate
During the assembly, the Student Council
To BIS’s benefit, he was nominated as
enough to be given the opportunity to
members gave a brief summary about the
Bonn’s mayor during the 13 September
organize an assembly about the Bonn
elections and informed students on how
2015 elections. Mr Sridharan won the
mayoral elections. The assembly took
they could participate in the elections. All
elections with a clear majority of the votes,
place in early September. Originally three
told, the assembly was very successful, as
proving he was the favored candidate. To
candidates were intended to speak and
Mr Sridharan answered all of the questions
find out more about him, visit his website
answer questions proposed by Secondary
that were asked by the student body. He
(www.sridharan.de), or read more about
students. These candidates were Thomas
spoke about how he’d like to put more
him online.
Schmidt, Ashok-Alexander Sridharan
emphasis on Bonn’s culture and history,
and Peter Ruhenstroth-Bauer. Only Mr
as it is the city where Beethoven was born.
Sridharan was able to attend.
Mr Sridharan also discussed certain issues Bonn is facing, such as debt, and how he would try to overcome these issues, or how Bonn as a city plans to compete with Cologne. One of the more memorable statements he made was his aim of attempting to bring more nightlife to Bonn, which clearly made the crowd of teenagers cheer. Furthermore, he said he had intentions of keeping in mind BIS, and hopes to help, where possible, if he were elected mayor.
28
Krupha V, Grade 12.
Creative Writing Club Trip to Drachenfels Ё A Literary Retreat Ё but also time to collaborate and receive
The Creative Writing Club is marking its second year of writing stories and
feedback from others.
poems, and studying different genres
So how did the trip go? Very
of literature at BIS. It is currently
well, according to the attendees.
focusing on the historical fantasy
Creative Writing Club members
genre. As many writers do when they need inspiration, the club
met at the Königswinter
decided to take a retreat, and
Aquarium, ascended the
what better place to do it than
mountain, and worked near
cloud-shrouded, medieval,
Drachenfels. They had plenty
mysterious Drachenfels?
of time to work independently, and they also had time to
The purpose of the retreat was
share their progress with
to give students a full day to
each other. The students
create works of literature within
believe that the trip was a
the historical fiction/fantasy genre. It was hoped that the
time to expand their literary
mountainous surroundings
skills and to help each other.
of Drachenfels, and its’ own
They also received inspiration
interesting history would provide
for their stories, because the
inspiration. Furthermore, retreats
setting of Drachenfels fits well
are beneficial because they give
into the historical fiction and
authors time alone to think and work
fantasy genres.
So what do you think? Does a club that allows you to write about any subject in any language and any genre interest you? If it does, please come by Ms K’s room at lunchtime on Wednesdays, and experience the beauty of writing with the other members of Creative Writing Club. Rachel F, Grade 12.
Orthodontist
Dr. MED. Dent. ASTRID WELLER-BERGMANN
29
I am currently in Grade 8 and I’ve been going to Youth Group for one year now. I joined because many of my friends were already attending. Kelly and his team are very welcoming. I enjoy Youth Group because we get to play fun games, have delicious dinners, get to hang out with friends and meet new people. At the same time, I get to learn a lot about Christianity. Although Youth Group is mainly for The American Protestant Church is only a stone’s throw away from BIS. It is a church
Christians, I think everyone is welcome
community that operates much like BIS, meeting in English and enjoying the diversity
to join. Every few weeks we have Mystery
of over 30 nationalities and backgrounds. As a church, it offers many ways to grow and
Night, where the program is a good surprise.
get connected for all ages. One program that may interest families, is the weekly youth
My favorite part of Youth Group is the end
program. Each Tuesday and Thursday night, youth between ages 11 and 18 are offered a
of year barbecue where we have a water
safe place to gather, eat, play, sing and learn about the intersection between the Christian
balloon fight. It is extremely fun and I think
faith and life. We aim to create space for deeper friendships and interaction with the
it’s a good conclusion to the year.
difficult questions that face our youth. The content does focus on Jesus, but we strive to be open for discussion, as we want youth thinking critically in the best sense of the term. Not only do we offer regular weekly programs, but we enjoy an international youth conference in November, a weekend ski retreat in the winter, and a service trip during the Easter holidays. We also sprinkle in fun nights throughout the semester in order to get out and just enjoy playing and being together. Kelly Capps, Youth Minister
Each Tuesday and Thursday night, youth between ages 11 and 18 are offered a safe place to gather, eat, play, sing and learn about the intersection between the Christian faith and life. where we might travel somewhere for fun. In the past, the group has been rock climbing, played paint ball war and other fun stuff. Youth Group has special events like a ski trip and a service trip to Romania.
I’ve been attending Youth Group for three
I recommend Youth Group for meeting
years. It is a place where you can get
friends and having a good time.
together with friends and have a good time. There are three main activities that we do: eat dinner, play games, and sing. Each week, we have something different to look forward to. About once a month there is something called Mystery Night, 30
The Tuesday night youth program meets from 18:30-20:30 and is for youth in Grades 6-8. The Thu.rsday group meets from 19:00-21:00 and is for Grades 9-12 Anton, Grade 10.
Kiara PdL, Grade 8.
Grade 12
Graduation 2014/15
Grade 5
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32
INTERNATIONAL DAY
When you come to BIS for the first time, you hear that there are over 70 nationalities represented here, and you probably find that pretty impressive, but it is just a number. Experiencing the true meaning of this comes to fruition at International Day. This past June more than 20 of these nationalities brought their culture and traditions to our school palettes. These delights came in the form of traditional food and drink from their home countries such as pierogis from Poland, Russian vodka, Canadian maple syrup over pancakes, American root beer and pulled pork, Australian wine, in addition to fabulous African and Asian cuisine, Nordic and Turkish delights and more. The sharing of customs such as traditional clothing, dances and songs reflecting how people celebrated as they grew up in their respective countries makes this such an amazing event. International Day is a wonderful celebration that reflects the BIS population’s love of food, drink, good times and most importantly, its sense of community. Krista Ferguson, Parent.
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33
t s e f r e b o t k O
later! It’s easy to get caught up in the merry
making. The beer tents are not for the faint hearted. The benches are packed, five Oktoberfest
people standing on each. The noise level
is one of
is high, the Bavarian band is loud. Every
Germany’s biggest festivals. It takes place
so often everyone toasts (prost!) while
in Munich, beginning on the last Saturday
swinging their liter of beer. Beer maids, and
in September and lasts for 16 days, ending
men, can carry up to 10 one liter mugs of
in October. It began in the year 1810, with
beer. I switched from beer to water and
the marriage of King Ludwig I to Princess
lemonade early on, so I could experience
Therese. The local citizens were invited to
I decided to experience Oktoberfest for
the wedding in what has become known
myself. I bought the required Bavarian
as the Theresienweise, or Theresa’s Field.
dress, called a dirndl. It consists of a blouse,
King Ludwig decided to make it an annual
a skirt and apron. You can spend anywhere
event and it has grown to be a party for
from 100 to several hundred euro on one.
over six million people each year. Over
The skirt length varies as does the amount
five million liters of beer are consumed,
of cleavage that’s visible. Where you tie
800,000 chickens, 650,000 sausages, and
the knot of your apron string indicates
an unknown number of pretzels bigger than
whether you are married (right side), single
your head. There are parades, amusement
(left side) or a widow (tied in the back). For
rides, a folklore concert, and Bavarian
men, Lederhosen, or leather pants, and a
souvenirs for sale. There are 14 huge beer
gingham shirt is the preferred attire.
tents, each sponsored by a Munich brewery. They each hold thousands of people. The fairgrounds and tents are crowded. It is recommended to go during the week when there are fewer people.
Going with a large group of friends was fun.
I reserved a table in a beer tent with a
I’m glad I can now say, “Yes, I’ve been to
large group of friends. For 40 euro you get
Oktoberfest!” It’s the kind of thing I only
a seat at a table for three hours, a chicken
need to do once. If you plan to go next
dinner, and two liters of beer. When our time
year, make hotel and tent reservations
was up, we found two tables (biergarten
early. Also, practice standing on a bench
style with benches)
for extended periods of time while swinging
and, to my amazement,
a large object in your hand.
remained there until the tent closed down for the night, nine hours
34
the scene without falling off my bench.
Maureen Adams, Parent.
Biking on the Rhine Looking to do something different on your next holiday? Why not trade four wheels for two! We’ve now had three family cycling holidays,
about what I would let them take: one
and while the kids groaned a little before,
change of clothes, PJ’s, a toothbrush, a
Rick Steeves audio guide (and a great
during, and after, we know that they made
book, and a rain jacket of course. That
diversion for the kids to stop and listen to).
memories to last a lifetime.
was it for four days. It’s amazing what you
You can download it onto your phone, and it
really don’t need. I learned a great deal,
makes great commentary of the landmarks
like panniers instead of a basket would
you see as you cycle by.
Our first trip was just as simple as getting onto Google Maps, talking to a few people who had biked the Rhine before, estimating how far my five year old could possibly go in one day (and still love me) and booking the hotels! I know many people do it, but I could not imagine biking with four kids all day, putting up a tent and actually sleeping in it. For us, it’s hotels all the way.
probably be a good investment. It seemed there were restaurants, ice cream shacks and biergartens every few kilometers to keep the kids pedaling farther. We were able to bike about 30km per day and it took us from our house to Bingen, where we simply loaded the five bikes back onto the train and were home in less than two hours. It
We left from our driveway and headed
seemed slightly disappointing, considering
south down the Rhine. It was such a great
it took us three nights to bike that far! Yes,
trip and even the kids laugh when we talk
it was definitely an express train.
A useful tip for the Romantic Rhine is the
While in our family, bike holidays could never compete with Walt Disney World, there was a certain sense of achievement and pride that the kids felt when we stopped and looked on the map at all the kilometers we’d cycled each day. They gained confidence and enthusiasm from this achievement and since that first trip, we’ve done several more. None of which, however, included a tent! Jen Wilson, Parent.
All five of us set off from our house down the Rhine, on our first cycling holiday.
Good thing we had rain jackets. We stopped under a bridge to wait for the rain to stop, a good time to read.
Road side stop in Hungary
Prevention is much better than healing – it saves the labour of being sick.«
»
© michaeljung - Fotolia.com
Thomas Adams, 1618
DR. MED. MARIANNE ESSER // BEATE HUBER M.D. (TORONTO) Pediatrics Age 0-18 years Allergology
Beethovenallee 56 53173 Bonn-Bad Godesberg www.kinderarzt-esser.de
Easy Parking at Arndtplatz Bus 614 5 minutes to BIS
Phone 0228 – 36 10 61 Fax 0228 – 35 97 32 info@kinderarzt-esser.de
35
ol
Gr
ood Sch o eenw
of Irish Dancing
9th
German Open
Irish Dance Championships at BIS
Irish Dance is taught at BIS on Thursdays
BIS parents also took a very active role
after school. Under the guidance of
throughout the weekend. It all started
teacher Heike Froehling of Greenwood
Friday evening when we transformed
School of Irish Dancing, many BIS
the Waves Gym into a venue suitable
children across all ages join in. They learn
for hosting a National Championships.
about Irish dance and music and may
The cafeteria and Waves foyer became a
also prepare for competitions. During the weekend of 14-15 November 2015, BIS hosted the 9th WIDA German Open Championships. A total of 23 BIS students took part in this competition, for 10 of which this was their first ever competition. The event is a WIDA (World Irish Dance Association) competition and its goal is to promote Irish dance around the world. It was founded in 2004 and currently has over 140 schools in 21 countries. Over 280 dancers took part over the weekend. They came from Germany, Netherlands, England, Ireland, Switzerland, Hungary, Belarus, Ukraine and Russia! A truly International event at a truly International School.
two days parents continued to support by helping first time dancers get ready, direct them, explain the system, man the reception tables, cover early snacks, helps support the judges, enter results etc. There were a litany of jobs to be done and all were filled thanks to our wonderful volunteers. BIS Management were very supportive throughout and it was great to be able to host such a special event at our own school. Many people throughout the two days commented on what a great venue we have and were eager to hear more about BIS. Sodexo offered food and beverages throughout the two days, thank you! And a special thank you to the security staff, who
It was wonderful to see so many
really were amazing, and to the cleaning
participants from our school taking part
staff who were very patient and supportive.
and doing so with such skill and success. BIS participants won six Gold, six Silver and one Bronze medal on the Saturday, and there were special awards in each age group, where again BIS students had great success: one first place trophy, three 2nd place trophies and two 3rd place trophies. We also had three BIS students place in the top three in the championships on Sunday in their age groups: Sydney Wilson was runner up for the U14 title, Sara Brazil was runner up for the U11 title and Kate Brazil was second runner up for the title in U9. Well done girls! Greenwood School also had three dancers crowned German Open Champion 2015 in their age groups, a wonderful achievement for the school. 36
reception area, shop, massage space, and award ceremony platform. Throughout the
Many BIS families and staff came and enjoyed the dancing on display. If you missed it this time hopefully we can host a similar event again in the future! Kerry Brazil, Parent.
Alumni
A Return to the Beginnings A warm glow filled my wife, Sayuri, and I as we returned to Bonn and BIS for the first time since our departure 14 years ago. The blue sky reflected off the river. The rich green colours on the
BIS was added to the final list of approved projects. It was made
hillsides reminded us of how and why our school colours were
clear that the grant was a first in German history and would
confirmed in the first Board meeting shortly after our arrival in
likely never occur again. This was an indication that this project
1997. Then to see the actual Waves building in school colours
was vital to the future economic development of Bonn, as it has
was a dream come true.
indeed become. However, the complexities were enormous as
Since leaving, we have maintained contact with the Schulamt Leiter at that time, Herr Werner Koch-Gombert. It was he who
all the agencies involved were doing something for the first time with no precedent.
made the merger of three schools into BIS possible and retained
It is heartening to see the success of BIS and that the growth
the present site for the new school. Together we worked countless
projections have come true. Everyone who was part of BIS at any
hours preparing details, budget projections and plans. We went
time since its founding invested great energy and effort to make
through the competitive selection process for Bundesauschuss
the original dream come true. To all of them we extend deep and
funds made available by the move of the German government
heartfelt thanks!
to Berlin.
Tom Ulmet, Retired Director.
Many meetings took place throughout the region during the first two years. These efforts were rewarded when
37