Bonn International School Waves - Winter 2017

BONN INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL MAGAZINE

WAVES Winter 2016 - 2017

n

The IB Journey n Writers

workshop takes flight

n Hitting

the nail on the head

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CONTENTS 2 CONTENTS +++ News from the Director +++ 4 EC SPORTS / BISSV Fall Results Focus on Cross-Country Coaches BISSV Update 8 EC ACTIVITIES Youth Choir Tech Pilots MUN Origami Group Hiro Aisawa feature (violin teacher)

ol inspires Bonn International Scho ts and empowers studen

10 PYP G5 Overnight trip Sauerland EL5 learning - Approach to literacy G2 Culture Boxes

to excel

mes in all Baccalaureate program

Our BIS vision - a learning community that empowers

ic success, grades support academ

and inspires excellence in all that we do.

social personal growth and engagement.

22 STAFF NEWS Colby Hilker Lizee Muller 24 WHOLE SCHOOL The IB Journey

A strategic planning process begins with defining a vision – in

Defining our vision required much thought and discussion. We

our case, the sort of school we aspire to be. “If you don't have

agreed that “the BIS vision is a learning community that empowers

a common, agreed-on destination, then everyone is left to his or

and inspires excellence in all that we do”.

s from its BIS values and benefit

her own devices to imagine one, a scenario that results in unharnessed and unfocused efforts, with everyone believing

Our group focused its attention on defining what excellence

ity and international commun

that what he or she is doing is right.” (How To Help Your School

means at BIS. To us, striving for excellence is doing the best that

Thrive, Farmer, Gabriel, 2009). The vision defines the guiding

you can possibly do, not being satisfied with half measures and

principle of all the groups working on the different areas of the

half efforts and pushing for personal growth. Surely, if anything

BIS strategic plan.

is worth doing, it is worth doing well, whether it is participating

cultural diversity.

26 UNSUNG HEROES BIS IT-Team

in a cross-country tournament, an MUN conference, in our

28 STUDENT NEWS Student Council GSA The Benefit of Experience

36 BIS IN PHOTOS

...from the Director

ternational The comprehensive In

18 DP Austria Orientation Trip From source to mouth The Journey from MYP to DP

34 ALUMNI A Personal Project Is IB really worth it?

A group of parents, staff and students met for three intensive

musical Annie, in the Grade 5 exhibition, in the Extended Essay, in

sessions to examine the difference between a vision and a

raising money for Bhutan, in welcoming a new student, in sitting

mission, to define our vision, and to review our mission. The

down and really learning those time tables, the new German

vision and mission created by this group will now go to the

vocabulary, preparing that presentation on …, etc.

Board of Trustees for its approval.

We want BIS to empower and inspire all its members to attain Whereas the vision points to where we are going, the mission

BONN INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL e.V.

defines our core values and beliefs, the reason why we are here.

Martin-Luther-King Strasse 14, 53175 Bonn magazine@bonn-is.de

Our core values came out clearly in the results of our Vision Tree

MAGAZIN VOLUNTEERS: Melissa Beck, Agnieszka Boud, Kate Carey, Krista

brainstorming, as well as during our group discussions. We

Ferguson, Karolyn Fox, Anuradha Koratkar, Natalie Niklas, Sonja Seitamo, Sam

and strive for excellence every day in everything we do.

value that BIS is a caring, compassionate, international community of inquiring learners. We hold social responsibility and

Winnall | LAYOUT: Stephanie Fremerey | PHOTOGRAPHY: Thank you to the many

contributing positively to our global world as essential goals of

community members who share their photos, Shutterstock | PRINTING: The Happy

education and take it for granted that respect and open-minded-

Printer, Bonn

ness are prerequisites of a “better, more peaceful world” (IB Mission Statement). We clearly align our values with those of the IB.

FRONT PAGE picture: Agora Perspective, by Maria A, Grade 8

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in all that they do.

14 MYP G8 Putting things in Perspective G6 Hitting the Nail on the Head Building Bridges G6 Scientists enquire

30 COMMUNITY NEWS Scouts Monday Morning Runners Welcome Family Coffee Mornings Tunnel Project

news

News from the Director | Winter 2016-2017 WAVES

WAVES Winter 2016-2017 | News from the Director

PAT BAIER, Director

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» Focus on cross-country coaches

WAVES Winter 2016-2017 | EC Sports

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EC Sports | Winter 2016-2017 WAVES

Fall Results

Cross Country BIS hosted the ISST Cross Country Division II Championships

The fall season saw BIS teams participating in

again this year and the community came together to open their

football, volleyball and cross country and in

homes to 150 athletes from ten visiting schools. While the sun

The cross-country team is one of the largest that BIS fields.

did not shine for the 5 km races in the Kottenforst, the runners

November, BIS teams travelled all over Europe for

did not let the miserable weather or even the sight of the

their season-ending NECIS and ISST tournaments.

‘horrible hill’ put them off. Special congratulations to Hugo P

Coaches Mr Grimmer and Ms Klinge spoke to Waves about their running, their tips for better performance and why they love coaching BIS athletes.

(Grade 9) for winning the JV Boys race on home turf and to Sara B (Grade 9) who stormed into 6th place in the JV Girls race.

ISST Division II

Football

Team placing (from 11 teams)

Varsity Boys

8th

Varsity Girls

7th

Varsity Boys ended their season on a high by winning the ISST Division III tournament in Vienna earning promotion to Division II next year. Georgi D (Grade 12), William F P (Grade 12) and Brian O (Grade 11) were selected to the All Tournament

JV Boys

4th

JV Girls

5th

WAVES: You are both keen runners. When did you first take up the

WAVES: What are your current running goals?

Select individual results

sport and why?

Mr Grimmer: I want to keep up with the fastest cross-country runners on

Raphael S (Grade 10)

Mr Grimmer: I started running at nine months and have never stopped!

our team, who are currently pushing 18 minutes for 5 km on a hilly course.

I dabbled in cross-country and triathlons as a teenager then became serious

I’m also planning to compete in an ultra-trail marathon in the Dolomites

about trail running at university but it did not become a major focus until

in June 2017. It’s my longest race so far.

I moved to Asia in 2000. I started competing in marathons in Korea and

Ms Klinge: For me, my biggest goal is lifelong running. It is so important to

stepped up to ultra marathons while living in China. In my heyday, I was

my overall well-being and happiness. Running has taught me how to

20th Bente K (Grade 11) 13th Hugo P (Grade 9) 1st Louis de F (Grade 9) 19th Sara B (Grade 9) 6th Olivia C (Grade 9) 15th

running in three or more of these a year.

persevere and to keep moving forward to overcome challenges. Without it,

best players. Varsity Girls were in The Hague for their ISST

Ms Klinge: My first memory of competitive running is my first ever cross-

I would be a little lost in life.

Division II tournament and came third with Charlotte P

country race on a cold winter's morning at the age of eight. I remember

(Grade 11) and Liza G (Grade 12) earning places on the All

running downhill, covered in mud, hair in my face with very numb feet. But

Team, an honorary all-star team comprising the tournament’s

WAVES: Lots of people in the BIS community will be taking part in

Tournament Team. JV Boys, U14 Boys and U 12 Boys competed

the exhilaration and freedom was something that stuck with me and keeps

the Bonn marathon again next year. As distance runners, what are

in NECIS tournaments in Amsterdam, Hamburg and Dussel-

me running.

your top tips for improving stamina? And speed?

Mr Grimmer: To help stamina, focus on being on your feet for ever-increa-

dorf and came third overall, second in the Plate tournament and third in the Plate respectively. The U12 Boys were awarded

WAVES: How many hours do you train each week?

Most Sporting Team.

Mr Grimmer: I train with the cross-country team during their season and

hours on Saturday and another hour on Sunday or try two runs in a day -

get out for an extra run on weekends. I still like to participate in competi-

morning and night. There is a real psychological element to stamina and

tive running, but with different goals now as I am committed to my young

convincing yourself you can run this time/distance often takes proof to self.

family and my job and don’t spend as much time in my running shoes.

As for speed, I am trying to have our school athletes experience faster than

Varsity Boys

ISST Division III

1st (from 6 teams) Promoted to Division II

Varsity Girls

ISST Division II

3rd (from 8 teams)

JV Boys

NECIS

3rd (from 10 teams)

U14 Boys

NECIS

U12 Boys

NECIS

6th (from 8 teams) 2nd in Plate 7th (from 8 teams) 3rd in Plate

Volleyball In a clean sweep and a show

sing periods (not worrying about distance). So over a weekend, run two

Ms Klinge: During the week I normally train five days: three days with the

normal speeds at various times throughout their training.

cross-country team and two extra days for longer runs in the forest, plus a

Ms Klinge: Variety is the key. For speed, find a day to run a shorter, yet faster

few gym sessions.

paced distance where you push yourself. For stamina, go out and enjoy your

of the fantastic sportsmanship

long runs at a comfortable and relaxed pace. Your marathon training should

among the BIS athletes, each

WAVES: We’re well into winter. How do you motivate yourselves to

of the Varsity Girls, JV Girls,

get out and run when it’s cold and dark?

U14 Girls and U12 Girls volley-

Mr Grimmer: Running can seem like madness to those who do not know

WAVES: What do you enjoy most about coaching the BIS cross-

ball teams was awarded Most

or love the sense of freedom of leaving the pavement for trails. Why would

country team?

be something you are excited about.

Sporting Team in their NECIS

anyone leave their warm bed on a cold, dark morning? For me, being out-

Mr Grimmer: The atmosphere and dynamic of the team. BIS athletes push

tournaments in Amsterdam,

doors is addictive and it gives me a sense of balance. I use running like

themselves hard in training and are responsive to advice. They support each

Hamburg and Dusseldorf. The

monks use meditation and, oddly, I get a sense of pleasure from running

other and other runners at meets and many of the runners are steadily

JV Girls also won the Plate

in the dark, the rain or during a storm. I also enter an end of winter /early

improving.

tournament.

Varsity Girls

NECIS

JV Girls

NECIS

U14 Girls

NECIS

U12 Girls

NECIS

8th (from 10 teams) 4th in Plate 5th (from 10 teams) 1st in Plate 8th (from 10 teams) 4th in Plate 6th (from 8 teams) 2nd in Plate

spring event as a motivator.

Ms Klinge: I love to see so many students running in the forest. The com-

Ms Klinge: Signing up for a spring race provides excellent motivation for get-

passion and hard-working nature of our BIS cross-country team captures

ting through the colder months. I really don’t like the cold, so I wear lots

the true spirit of running. I enjoy being surrounded with such positive and

of layers and try to run on sunny days. When it’s really horrible, I head to the

amazing students; they make me proud to be a BIS coach.

gym, which adds variety to training and keeps me challenged and warm.

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WAVES Winter 2016-2017 | BISSV

BISSV | Winter 2016-2017 WAVES

BISSV

E T A U PD Bonn International School Sportverein e.V.

Club Coordinator Rene Glinkowski gave Waves

(BISSV) is a club providing sports activities for

an update on what the club has on offer this

children and adults throughout the year. Mem-

year. Anyone wishing to participate or help out

bership is open to BIS families and the wider

should contact Rene at bissv@bonn-is.de

Bonn community.

Swimming

Badminton

BISSV offers swimming courses for non-swimmers at the

BISSV now offers badminton

Schwimm- und Sportfreude Club (SSF) at Sportpark Nord in

for students from Grade 6-9.

Bonn. The courses run for three months and are in English. Each

Practices are every Tuesday

course comprises eight coached lessons of 45 minutes. The next

from

sessions will take place from January to March 2017 and from

Waves Sports Hall. Play is

April to June 2017.

recreational only.

17:00-18:30

in

the

Bambini Football Football is now offered for children from EL3 to Grade 1. Waves Magazine asked coach Manuel Banha a few questions about this new activity.

Tennis

WAVES: How long has Bambini football been running and how many children take part?

Coach Banha: We started in September. We have over 30 Bambinis, including ten girls. We have two groups on Monday

Tennis is offered at the tennis club at the Robinson WellFit Bonn

from 15:30-16:30 and from 16:30-17:30. The older Bambinis (born 2010) practise on Wednesday from 15:45-17:00.

in Pennenfeld with Coach Peter Henseler. Training is year round and takes place once or twice a week on Fridays and/or Sundays.

WAVES: What does a typical training session involve?

Coach Banha: Training sessions should be fun and increase children’s love of football. Physical activity boosts brain power and we try to teach the children good running and coordination skills. A typical training session involves a warm up activity

Camps

such as catching and throwing games, a coordination session combined with a fun skill like a penalty shoot out and then BISSV will again be running camps in the Carnival, Easter and

‘the real game’, which is the part most popular with the players.

summer breaks. All camps are open to both BIS and non-BIS WAVES: Where do you train?

students.

Coach Banha: At the moment we practise on the basketball court at BIS.

Football Camp For children from Grades 1-5 from 28 February to 3 March 2017.

WAVES: What do you enjoy most about

Please check the website for further details.

coaching the Bambinis?

Coach Banha: It is wonderful to be

Easter Ball Skills, Football and Multi-Activity Camp

able to increase the children’s

From 10 to 13 April 2017 there will be ball skills for children

fascination with football and to

from EL 3 to Grade 4 plus EC Musical Theatre for children from

motivate them.

Grade 4 -9. Please check the website for further details.

Summer Multi-Activity Camp and Workshops For children from Grades 1-7 from 26 June to 14 July 2017. Please check the website for further details.

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WAVES Winter 2016-2017 | EC Activities

Model United Nations (MUN) Since the founding days of BIS, student-led MUN has

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EC Activities | Winter 2016-2017 WAVES

Perfect Harmony

Youth Choir

been active. It is now the

ORIGAMI

K

In 2004, I found a book of simple origami projects in the bookshop of

the Kunstmuseum Bonn and started to work my way through it. I found

the process of translating diagrams into three-dimensional objects both challenging and therapeutic and decided that an origami club for Primary

largest extracurricular activity

Music enriches children’s cognitive develop-

In October some of the choir joined with Musical

students would be a useful addition to the EC Activities program at BIS.

at BIS with over 40 members.

ment, memory, perception, language and

Theatre stdents to perform at the United Nations

Origami encourages patience and perseverance and practices fine motor

MUN at BIS gives students the

reading skills. Singing is something we can all

Day in Bonn Zentrum. They performed very well

skills and visualization. Students experience a great sense of achievement

opportunity to learn about

do and is an extraordinarily effective and rapid

and were excellent ambassadors for the school,

when they transform a flat square of paper into something beautiful. We

and debate current issues such

way to connect and bond with the people

but most interesting was the reaction of the

often do seasonal projects, such as Jack O’Lanterns for Halloween and

as the refugee crisis, border

around you. Singing in a choir boosts health,

people organizing the event who were in the

various Christmas Decorations. Sometimes individual students like to bring

tensions in Korea, and the

happiness and develops confidence.

room while we rehearsed. It was obvious that

in a project and teach the rest of the class how to make it.

issue of child soldiers (just to

they were completely captivated by the group,

name a few). More import-

Secondary choir started this year and it is

antly, MUN allows students

already a fantastic group of extremely talented

to develop speech making,

students. The choir has the complete range of

Music is irresistible and forces people to join in,

Wednesday after school for paper folding fun and are very grateful for the

diplomacy and research skills.

year groups from Grade 6-11. We probably

regardless of age, gender or nationality. You do

loyal support we receive from Ms Chie Kishimoto, Ms Naomi Irving and

spend too much time laughing, usually about

not have to be a great singer to be in choir

Ms Meejoh Park.

Our school hosts a total of

some squeaky high notes, or trying to sing

(I already have lots of those), you just need to

two BISMUN conferences,

while chewing lunch, and the choir sounds

enjoy singing and turn up on Monday lunchtimes

Vanessa Behrendt

each year. These portray an

impressive.

to room A080.

Teacher

academic simulation of the United Nations. Members of the BISMUN executive team strive to create an environment where the full potential of all members can be ful-

their focus and the quality of their singing.

a

What started as a small group activity for English Language Learners has now become a popular Primary School institution. We meet every

Tech Pilots Tech Pilots

Mr Hirotaka Aisawa

filled, as we know what an impact that can make. BIS

Tech Pilots, under the guidance of Matt Brady, has

also has the privilege of

expanded with a new structure. It is now supported

Mr Hirotaka Aisawa has been teaching students at BIS for six years. He

traveling to two large-scale

by Google Classroom and students work in the lab or

currently conducts the BIS Secondary string ensemble and teaches students

conferences annually: PAMUN

at home.

violin during private lessons. Mr Aisawa is an accomplished violinist who has performed as concertmaster and soloist in different cities in Europe. He was

in Paris and THIMUN, the biggest

European

MUN

conference, in The Hague.

This activity currently has 32 students in Grades 3-9

inspired to come to Germany at 22, as it is the birthplace of much of the

and is a fantastic avenue for those wanting to

music he loves. He is so excited that so many young people at BIS play the

develop their core Information Technology skills,

violin. It is not considered the easiest instrument to play well and Mr Aisawa’s

We would like to thank the

build upon them or just learn, explore and

goal is to train students not only to play well, but also get a good feeling

previous chairs, admin staff

create. Students decide which direction they

for the music. He is quite moved when his students play in concerts and

and

want to go, some choosing to learn pro-

competitions. One of his strongest memories is when he played in Kusatzu,

enabling MUN to grow.

gramming, experiment with mini computers,

Japan where his mom currently lives. Kusatzu was devastated by an earth-

learn to make games and apps, refurbish old

quake and a nuclear fall out after that. His music brought the entire

Stuart Conway, Jo Tilton

computers, or just tinker around with electronic

audience to tears.

MUN Directors

kits. Innovation is the goal and as Matt says

MUN

directors

for

the inquiry driven environment is “for students wanting to try new things. Making mistakes earns the highest marks.”

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WAVES Winter 2016-2017 | PYP

PYP | Winter 2016-2017 WAVES

Here’s what some of our students said on the last day:

‘I liked the bonding we did because it brought all Grade 5s

Sauerland

together, and I spent time with kids I don’t normally talk to.’

‘The cave was

Poppy

‘I liked how all the classes got mixed, and we got to

Grade 5 Field Trip

know each other better.’

This year the Grade 5 team decided that,

hostel itself (as well as endless games of

rather than waiting until the end of the

UNO and Ping Pong!), but the highlight

school year, we would go on our annual

of the trip was our daylong excursion to

overnight trip at the beginning. The pur-

the Biggesee and the Atta Höhle caves.

pose of the trip is, after all, to build rela-

We enjoyed a boat ride across the lake,

tionships between teachers and students,

visited a dam, took a touristy train up to

to practice teamwork skills and to deve-

the caves, were awed by the magnificent

lop as a cohesive Grade 5 unit across the

stalagmites and stalactites in the caves

three different classes. What better time

(we would recommend a visit), and final-

to do that than at the start of the year?

ly at the end of the day we hiked for an hour and a half back to the youth hostel

On Wednesday, 14 September, we left for

so beautiful – freezing, but beautiful.’

Laura

where a BBQ awaited our hungry crowd.

‘I thought it was nice that was so relaxing –

Violet

to go on the hike and just walk and chat– even though we went the wrong way!’

Ibra

‘We climbed this tree with tires, and it was so challenging, but after the first three tires it was easy.’

Kota

the beautiful region of Sauerland filling a bus with 47 excited students and six,

Throughout the trip, all Grade 5 students

almost as excited, accompanying teachers.

showed amazing independence, creativi-

We were extremely lucky with the weather,

ty, resilience, and enthusiasm for all the

as these days promised to be the last days

adventures we embarked upon. All 47

of the warm summer. The ‘Jugendherberge

children returned to school safe and

Biggesee’, beautifully located in woods and

sound on Friday afternoon, tired and full

near the lake, was to be our home for three

of stories to tell.

‘What I found really interesting was how long it takes for

days and two nights.

stalagmites to grow.’

We participated in a range of team games

Diana van Mersbergen

and outdoor activities around the youth

Teacher

Javier

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WAVES Winter 2016-2017 | PYP

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PYP | Winter 2016-2017 WAVES

Grade 2 Unit of Inquiry ‘Who We Are’ In the first Semester, our three Grade 2 classes embarked on

Some examples of common cul-

their first Unit of Inquiry. ’Who We Are’ is based on the central

tural elements the children found

idea that ‘through sharing our cultures, we make connections

included:

with others’.

The co nn ection I have betwee n m y cu lture and Lo veleen's cu lture is that we grow fo od at ho m e.

Students explored elements of culture including language, music, celebrations, clothing, literature, traditions and invisible aspects of culture like how people greet each other, what is considered lucky (and unlucky), and social etiquette. Each student prepared a culture box to bring in to class containing artifacts that represent their cultures. Many of the boxes contained sports equipment, music CDs, preserved food, photographs, flags and more.

The

Anastazia

of culture they have in common. Our enthusiastic students

We are all writers. From beginning mark

that tell the story. Our stories range from

ideas with others. We come together at

making to stories that jump off the page,

personal narratives about moments in our

the end of Writer’s Workshop to reflect

we embrace the wonders of Writer’s

lives to adventure tales about knights and

on our writing for the day.

Workshop here in EL5.

soldiers jumping from helicopters and magical flying dragons!

Writing begins by thinking about the story

have

both read the bible.

They used Venn diagrams to record their research and elements

to parents who were invited to attend one afternoon.

I

Forrest's culture is that we

their home cultures and to celebrate what makes each one unique.

to students in Grade 1 and Grade 7. They also gave presentations

connection

between my culture and

Students worked in small groups to make connections between

demonstrated their communication through group presentations

Emir

ve I ha ct io n nd e a n n co ltu re The y cu we m t a h n t ee re is b et w u t l lor u e co hi’s c e blu An-Z h t lue b e hav d the both gs an a l f ur r. on o wate leta sents Niko e r p e r

ave n I h nn e ctio nd a The co cu ltu re n my the in betwee t a th lture is u c 's en d la Ay use woo mes, we rs te h g olden ti ack fi s to wh weapon . an rule so we c Finn

The c o nn e c tio n I betwee have n my cu ltu re Kater in and a’s cu lt u re is w e ke t hat ep o u r s hoe when w s on e pray a nd we people g reet by u sin g a ha shake. ndOliver

Students in EL5 give Writer’s Workshop a ‘thumbs up’. Students say they enjoy how,

Our writing has grown to encompass our

“I can write my best things and I can

Students brought in a dish from their

growing knowledge of letters and

write (about) anything”. Some students

culture to share with their peers and parents.

in our brains! We draw our stories

sounds from our daily phonics groups.

even suggest that their “brains are getting

The cafeteria was transformed into a mini-

from our incredible imaginations,

We use our word walls, sounds cards,

bigger (with) more ideas to write about”.

International Day with delectable snacks

we want to tell, and then drawing our visualizations of the picture we have

add labels to show the characters and setting, and then begin writing sentences

and classroom alphabet to help us write

Since the beginning of the school year,

including strawberry dumplings from the

our stories. Teachers come around to

writing has taken off in EL5 as more

Czech culture, brownies from the United

conference with students to give helpful

students create stories to inspire us to be

States, lamingtons from Australia, borscht

tips to enhance writing.

proud of our work. During our first authors’

from Russia, sushi from Japan and Lebkuchen

celebration, our incredible writers shared

from Germany. This unit is a great way to

After we go back and add details to our

their work with other classmates, parents,

share what makes our international

and honored guests.

community unique, while teaching open-

pictures and our writing, we share with

mindedness, perspective and respect.

other writers. This is a magical time where we inspire each other by asking questions and sharing our

Elizabeth Mueller, Teacher

Wendy Weisbart, Teacher

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WAVES Winter 2016-2017 | MYP

MYP | Winter 2016-2017 WAVES

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Putting Things in Perspective Our Grade 8 Art students created a pencil drawing using the one point perspective

Hitting the Nail

technique, producing an artwork drawn in the Agora building of BIS. Already artists, students began with some foundational exercises for drawing in perspective, and then they chose a place in the Agora building to draw. Some students worked in the hallway, while others took pictures and continued their drawings in the classroom. Students had several class periods to develop and finish their Agora perspective drawings, the results of which are stunning. Well done, class!

on the Head

Morgan Simpson, Teacher

Jake J. Grade 8

Maria A. Grade 8 If each student could always achieve this, learning would be easy. At times the target is obvious and the challenge clear. Less obvious targets can be hit more easily with the help of an expert.

Last year Mr Ille was faced with such a challenge. For the safety of his students and to maximize instruction time with specialized tools in his Design and Technology classes, he began to think about options for effective use of class time. In addition to learning how to use power tools, Mr Ille wanted his students to learn about the wood they were using and where it came from, and a research project was born.

Most people do not immediately connect the Media Centre and DT lab to work together on a project, but Mr Ille and Mrs Rogers created a unit around the research of trees and wood and introduction to tools in the DT lab. They came to the conclusion that splitting the class and using the Media Centre and workshop at the same time would result in individual research support in the Media Centre and more hands on instruction in the lab. These experiences would give the students valuable skills needed to ‘hit the nail on the head’ every time.

This collaborative unit was a success and is continuing this year. The culminating projects include hammered nail art crea-

Balint T. Grade 8

ted in the DT lab and informational posters on trees and their wood based on research done in the Media Centre.

Rodrigo G. Grade 8 Stefan Ille and Cindy Rogers, Teachers

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WAVES Winter 2016-2017 | MYP

MYP | Winter 2016-2017 WAVES

Buil ding Bri dges:

An Interdi sci p l in a r y A p pr oa c h You may have heard about STEM or STEAM in education, but what is it? STEM represents projects that include the subjects Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics.

STEAM projects additionally include an Art aspect. In the BIS Design Department we offer STEM projects, one of them being a project about structures and bridges in Grade 8.

Students write their methods for the experiment

Transferring data from a table to a graph

Grade 6 Scientists Inquire

‘What is Evidence?’ the cost of the bridge relative to

In Grade 6 students engaged in a variety of

1 Squash balls will bounce when dropG

its strength (Mathematics).

technology and hands on activities within

ped from a height.

During

the unit ‘What is Evidence?’ They learned

2 A toy car will run down a ramp when G

students learn about the different

how to operate various pieces of laboratory

it is placed at and angle.

forces that act on bridges and how modern bridges

equipment to make measurements and

3 A pendulum will swing when it is let G

have been developed to counter the forces that can destroy

collect data, how to create and use a data

go from a certain angle.

them (Science). Students also explore methods to strengthen

table and how to present data in a graph.

the

inquiry

stage,

Heating water for squash ball experiment

They then researched, designed, gathered

materials (Engineering) and the application of triangulation in structures (Mathematics & Engineering). Students learn how to

During the unit students not only had the

and processed data, evaluated and finally

measure accurately and how to calculate the height of the

opportunity to use actual equipment in

drew conclusions.

bridge sides based on the length of the equilateral triangle sides

the labs, they also benefitted from equip-

in their truss structures, to allow them to draw accurate ortho-

ment of an online virtual lab that allowed

All in all, it was a fun and all encompas-

graphic drawings.

them to experience how manipulating

sing introduction to MYP Science for Grade

For this project, students have to design truss bridges and build

Measuring how high a squash ball bounces after heating

different variables in an experiment would

6 students, including both hands on and

them from a restricted list of materials, requiring careful planning

These kind of projects are not only interesting to the students

lead to differing results. For the culminating

technology based inquiry.

to use the materials as efficiently as possible. Each student

because they have real world applications, they also allow them

assessment of the unit, students chose one of

creates a 1:1 scale orthographic drawing showing the side view,

to apply their knowledge and skills from a variety of subjects.

the following experimental investigations:

Scott Knicely, Teacher

Measuring the angle to drop the pendulum for the pendulum experiment

top, bottom and tunnel views of the bridge, as the basis for building the bridge model (Engineering).

Jackie Van der Steege, Teacher The drawing measurements are used to calculate how much of the different materials will be needed to build the bridge using a spreadsheet (Technology). The aim is to use as much as possible of the materials but stay within the restrictions of 15 dowels

Other STEM projects include the robotics pro-

(3mm diameter x 250mm) and minimize cutting sections of the

ject (Grade 7), the web design project (Grade 8)

baseplate away. Students might have to adjust the bridge design

and the animation project (Grade 8) in

if they need more materials than they have available.

Digital Design. In Product Design, the desktop organizer (Grade 7), the clock project

The testing consists of suspending a bucket beneath each bridge

(Grade 7) and the bridging the gap project

and filling it with weights to determine the weight each bridge

(Grade 8) are examples of STEM projects.

can carry (Engineering). This information is used to calculate

Measuring string length for the pendulum experiment

Heating up a squash ball in hot water

Investigating the distance a toy car travels down the ramp at various angles and heights

17

18

WAVES Winter 2016-2017 | DP

DP | Winter 2016-2017 WAVES

Rooming with people I did not know so well was amazing because I got to know people who I never actually talked to. It was also really cool to be able to do things that were somewhat intimidating but really fun! Austria is beautiful. The mountains and woods set a sharp contrast to the turquoise water of the lakes and gave peace and relaxation. I would definitively do the trip again!

For a week in September of 2016, Grade 11 students at Bonn International School enjoyed the phenomenal sights and amazing experiences in Austria.

The Grade 11 trip, organized by Lorraine Heinrichs, allowed the new

The orientation trip was a great way to get to know other people in my grade and to challenge myself in activities I had never done before.

eleventh graders to grow acquainted with each other as they tried new exciting activities such as canyoning, rafting, hiking and zip lining.

Surrounded by the beautiful Austrian alps and an atmosphere ripe with the promise of adventure, the eleventh graders found new friends and enjoyed new experiences that will never be forgotten.

I really enjoyed the opportunity to participate in new activities that we would not have experienced otherwise. We grew together as a grade but also as friends! I was very grateful to be able to take part in such a fascinating trip.

Very fulfilling experience where I got to know my teachers and my fellow eleventh graders a lot better. 10 out of 10, would totally do again!

19

20

WAVES Winter 2016-2017 | DP

o

From source to mouth: How rivers change

E At the source and the start of the day

Jimmy caught an Abel in the water

21

DP | Winter 2016-2017 WAVES

H

On 28 to 29 September, students

Journey

The

from MYP to DP

The Diploma Programme (DP) is a more complex curriculum

from Grade 12 were involved in

compared to the Middle Years Program (MYP). The MYP prepares

doing fieldwork along the River

for the DP, as the material learned in the MYP gets used as a

Ahr. This fieldwork was part of

basis in the DP. For example, you learn what cells and atoms are

their Internal Assessment for DP

in MYP, and you should arrive in DP Sciences already knowing

Geography.

what they are.

Students

took

Learner Profile attributes:

measurements from the source of the river in Blankenheim and

Personally, I think that MYP has given me good preparation

One of the three essential require-

along four different sites before

towards the DP. Especially since Grade 10 students had to do the

ments to complete the DP is a

finishing at the mouth in Remagen.

e-assessment and that we had to revise everything from Grade

Community, Activity and Service (CAS)

9 to 10 in every single subject. Also, e-portfolios have really

component. This is a more complex form

The aim of the fieldwork was to

introduced me to Music DP at the higher level, as we had to

of the Service and Action component in

assess how the river changes

create a composition representing a certain culture. On my part

the MYP. It enables students to build a

along the different courses.

I composed a piece mixing French classical with American musical

responsible personality through fulfil-

Many students were fully involved,

(e.g. Gershwin) music. This year (Grade 11) I am currently doing

ment of the IB learner profile criteria.

getting into the water and taking

composition, and the good thing is that I already learned a lot

measurements, although it was

of the time consuming techniques while in MYP!

inquirers knowledgable thinkers communicators principled open-minded caring risk-takers balanced reflective.

For Creativity, DP students can write a book, create an artwork, take part in a band, learn an instrument and much more. For

not the warmest of days! The students enjoyed their experi-

In DP, there is a lot more work than in the MYP. Not that teachers

Action, sports are most often what students are encouraged to

ence of being out in the field and

give more homework necessarily, but the flow of classes moves

participate in. Finally, for Service, a lot of DP students tutor

working together as a team.

much faster and you learn more information in shorter time

students in lower grades and there are of course many more

periods. This teaches you to be more responsible for yourself, as

possibilities such as helping a hospital, raise money for a cause, etc.

Someone loves the water too much!

Stuart Conway, Teacher

Elena contemplating the next steps!

you need to plan and organise how you work. The IB programmes are like preparation for life: the MYP prepares you for the DP,

In total, to achieve the Diploma certificate, DP students need to

the DP prepares you for university.

fulfill seven outcomes: strength & growth, challenge & skills, initiative & planning, commitment & perseverance, collaborative skills, global engagement and ethics of choices & actions.

Prevention is much better than healing – it saves the labour of being sick.«

»

All in all, the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme is an exceptional curriculum to obtain an excellent education across six different subjects and graduate with a well rounded, © 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

international profile.

Hoabinh R.-M. Grade 11

22

WAVES Winter 2016-2017 | Staff News

Staff News | Winter 2016-2017 WAVES

Teacher Feature

?

Where were you born and where did you grow up?

Where do you consider “home?”

!

I was born and raised in Brick, New Jersey, USA. I go back

to visit my mother and two brothers, who are both close to incorporate the ideas and needs of the student into the classroom; leads with clear structure and organization that allows for maximum input and creativity from the students; and works

Colby Hilker ?

Where were you born and where did you grow up?

Where do you consider “home?”

!

I was born and raised in Hanover, Pennsylvania, not far

from the historic Gettysburg, Pennsylvania battlefield.

? How does your school experience compare to the student experience here at BIS?

! My school was a bit bigger than BIS, but situated in a small factory town and surrounded by farms. Most families had known each other for generations with little mobility in terms of student population and most people were of western European heritage. This is unlike the students of BIS whose relatively fluid population represents a diverse array of backgrounds.

?

a teacher?

!

experience here at BIS?

mind. The compassionate teacher realizes most people mean

When I was in high school I took a great deal of challenging

well most of the time; knows how to respond with a caring

classes in History and English, but I feel that I would have greatly

solution, even in challenging circumstances, rather than react

benefitted from programs like the PYP, MYP, and DP. When I

out of haste or anger; and knows how to mediate arguments.

attended Marymount University to become a teacher, I found

? What do you enjoy most about teaching at BIS?

challenging courses that extended my thinking and led me to

! We have incredibly talented students who are not afraid to

opportunity to work with professors who pushed me to think learning environment. I think that’s what we aim for at BIS: to be a respectful community of learners who encourage each

have the students’ best interests at heart. The combination

other to take risks and challenge ourselves.

? Which living person do you most admire?

active listening and taking care of our world, our students will follow.

of his early life and is an inspiration for how one can overcome a challenge and find your own voice from within.

?

What goals are you working towards or have recently

achieved?

! Expanding the already numerous achievements of the Arts Department. Most immediately this means the successful A personal passion is working with people to be more present for more moments of their lives. This is taking the form of the

focus on developing the skills of presence and awareness

observant teacher is one who can see where the student is starting

through a connection to performance techniques.

The collaborative teacher realizes we are a community and can

when we show respect to others, our school, and ourselves, students

personal challenges he had to overcome to be the phenomenal communicator he is today. He had a very bad stutter for much

are among the strongest qualities of a great teacher. The

able to adapt to changes as circumstances warrant.

I believe that teachers are the greatest models of respect. I feel that will learn to do the same. If we as teachers show respect through

course) related to mindfulness and education with a special

a potential long-term issue; and is prepared but flexible and

? What qualities do you think are most important in a teacher?

! James Earl Jones. I respect his work as an actor and the deep

I think being observant, collaborative, and compassionate

between a good and a bad day and a short-term problem and

outside my comfort zone and take risks in a safe and supportive

try out their performing skills. The added bonus has been

makes for a very positive working environment.

? Describe your dream holiday experience. !

Any holiday spent with dear friends or family. Give me

good, adventurous company and I’ll gladly go most anywhere.

Lizee Muller

discover different aspects of myself as a learner. I had the

working with an incredible team of dedicated teachers who also

development of a short-term curriculum (perhaps an eight week

and help to find pathways to success; can tell the difference

? How does your school experience compare to the student

towards balance and equity with the common welfare of all in

staging of the musical “Annie” for 16-17 February, 2017.

What qualities do you think are most important in

home, for Christmas and during the summer.

? What do you enjoy most about teaching at BIS? ! I love teaching in such an international community. My students are from many different places around the world. I feel that this is valuable to our learning about and from each other.

? Which living person do you most admire? ! My mother. She is a superhero. I admire her ability to face challenges and still be a mother and support system to three children. She taught me about being a kind, caring, and thoughtful human being to others, and I feel that is one of the most important lessons in life.

? What goals are you working towards or have recently achieved? ! Travel more! There are so many places I have yet to explore! ? Describe your dream holiday experience. ! Somewhere in the mountains, where it is snowing and I can curl up with a good book and a warm cup of tea!

23

24

WAVES Winter 2016-2017 | Whole School

Whole School | Winter 2016-2017 WAVES

My personal project allowed me

and organization that we

their Extended Essay preparation during

to

the

were required to conduct. We

the summer.

Sciences and Maths and their

had no one telling us what to

influence on things that we

research or how to structure

consider entertainment! Whilst

our essays and I think this is what

Luca and friends taking a break from

The IB Journey An account of growth from Grade 1 to Graduation.

really

some

appreciate

this

makes this project different to

opportunity for granted, the

students

took

the others in the syllabus; again

others that didn’t, found

introducing us to the next step

now, after writing my personal

themselves

in our journey: university!

statement for universities, have

having

gained

Luca´s Personal Project.

the exhibition, we were a step

Each of these projects has

that I was allowed to explore

closer to the DP and our perso-

allowed me to explore and

and find my interests as early as

nal projects helped us decide

truly invest my time and effort

10 years old and to re-evaluate

into what I enjoyed and was

those interests as I grew up. It

passionate about. These projects

can be said that the only way

Last week, I submitted my DP

and the curriculum in general

to truly figure out what we want

Soon it is off to university! I am excited to be on my own, but

Extended Essay for Grade 12. It

have played a major part in my

to pursue later on is through

it will be sad leaving the comfortable, protective and happy

was a mathematical analysis of

finding and truly understanding

independent thinking, which I

environment of BIS surrounded by my friends. In the last 12

the type of rocket required for

what I’m interested in. They have

and many others have learned

years I have walked through every alley and looked into every

a trip to Mars. I think the most

opened doors to considering

over the course of the years.

crack of our campus, and I would like to share some of my

valuable experiences gained

Science, Maths and Engineering

thoughts about this journey.

were the independent research

as subjects for university. Only

What stands out most, is the

of schooling necessary in our

respectively. In each we wor-

how to research a topic inde-

International Baccalaureate

rapidly changing world. The

ked on a major project on a

pendently were introduced

programs’ conscious approach

ever morphing demand for jobs

topic of our choice and sub-

when I was 10 years old, and

to present the methods and

emphasises this need for skills

mitted it as a conclusion to

today getting well researched

tools we need to succeed,

that allow students to be

that phase of study. For many,

information is second nature

rather than encouraging the

independent thinkers. Our criteria

including myself, it was a way

to me. For my MYP Personal

coughing up of spoon-fed

wonderfully demonstrates this;

to express our passion and

Project, I built a high-end

information. As my higher

we are assessed based on our

interests outside of the syllabus.

gaming computer, which I still

level Mathematics teacher,

“knowledge and understanding”

Mrs. Loraine Heinrichs cares to

as well as the “appreciation of

The PYP Exhibition was a great

say, “You are now taking a

[…] choices”. These characte-

way of introducing us little

cooking class; we don’t lecture

ristics entail deeper thought,

guys and girls to the big and

you on the recipes of hundreds

reflection and attention to the

scary world of the MYP. My

of meals, but rather teach you

aspects of how and why we

presentation on the History of

use

how to use the knives and tools

learn the things we do, as

the Internet and Cyberbullying

you need to cook thousands”.

opposed to just what.

allowed me to take a first

as

a

workstation.

our subject choices for DP.

by Luca

This is no more evident than

BAUFINANZIERUNG

Competence in real estate and mortgages...

to work as a sophisticated 6th

may sound, I believe it is an

with the three major projects;

and 7th grader while also

accurate representation of what

The Exhibition, The Personal

introducing me to a concept

the IB and our school strive to

Project and The Extended

widely

accomplish. By no means is it

Essay, which run parallel to the

management, which at times

known

as

time

perfect, but it is certainly

syllabus of the three IB phases

still seems to be a mystery to

developing towards a system

- PYP, MYP and the DP

me! The various aspects of

Luca`s first day at BIS.

W. Grade 12

PLANETHYP

glance at what it may be like And as corny as this metaphor

h

I realised how important it was

valuable experiences. After

25

www.planethome.com

For accounts of how the IB benefits stud ents at University or how a Person al Project lives

beyond Grade 10 please turn to our Alumni sectio n on page 34.

26

WAVES Winter 2016-2017 | Unsung Heroes

Unsung Heroes | Winter 2016-2017 WAVES

Meet the BIS Information Technology (IT) Team. Each of these four

Alex also has a hand in the strategic plan-

cation and planning would likely come to a standstill. Mirko

their iPads, he had to ensure all the devices were locked into the

team members has a distinct role in keeping all of the technology

ning of future software and hardware

also gets to have a bit of a laugh every now and then – for exam-

one testing app to maintain proper testing protocol.

(both hardware and software) functioning smoothly for our

applications for the school. He interacts

ple, the time when he was called to fix a computer that was not

school. Here`s what they had to say to our WAVES Magazine.

with vendors to see what the latest and

working and the user confirmed that he had checked every-

Outside of BIS, these guys have a wide range of interests.

greatest educational technology is and

thing and the computer must be broken. Mirko to the rescue –

Antoine is a gardener and was quite pleased with his tomato

Antoine Sabatier is the Database Coordinator

helps to integrate this into the plan.

he plugged it in! Mirko loves that his job comes with a great

crop this past summer (Bonn has a great growing climate).

at BIS. He keeps all the school’s data safe and

Alex enjoys the diversity of his job,

working atmosphere, he gets to continuously meet new people

Mirko likes to spend time with his family as does Alex, who

accurate. His primary systems are Managebac

from working with different tech-

and he tackles unexpected challenges (like the time he had to

welcomed a new baby boy into his family last year. When not

remove a business card from the CD slot of a computer).

and 3Sys which he configured to work for the

nologies to supporting the Help Desk

needs of BIS. These databases are used by

and collaborating with colleagues.

teachers, students and staff. Antoine builds

He spends much of his time supporting the Ed-Tech Coach and

Jure Jerebic (also known as Mr JJ) is the

to compose and produce music using keyboards and synthesizers.

different reporting criteria into Managebac for

the staff in their classrooms to ensure they can be technically

iPad Technician and Trainer at BIS.

When asked for their favorite Superhero, one of these four

with his son, he can be found biking, swimming, taking photos and reading (tech stuff of course). Jure is a musician who likes

the staff and teachers, such as student results

creative. Most amazing for Alex is all the people he has met and

Basically he is the “go to guy” for

chose Ironman because “he is the most IT Superhero and doesn’t

and reports. Knowing that Managebac is also

continues to meet from around the world because of

anything involving iPads. Jure ensures

wear those ridiculous pajamas some of the other ones have”.

the lifeblood of how our students manage their

working at BIS.

that all iPads are in working con-

IT specialists with a sense of humor – they have it all.

dition. If issues arise with iPads or

days, this is a key system at the school. The best thing about the job for him is being able to show people how

Mirko Murru is the BIS ICT Techni-

laptops, he is the one to resolve

Although these four guys have different areas of responsibilities,

IT can make their jobs easier.

cian. He has the important role of

them for teachers and students

the fact that they work together with “seamless collaboration”

keeping all the hardware running

with speed being a key criteria.

(to quote Alex), is a huge driver behind their success in keeping

(server and computers, beamers,

Jure provides iPad training and

BIS at the forefront of technology.

Alex Thurley is the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Systems Manager. He makes sure all the computing infra-

printers). He also holds the key to

helps to integrate the use of

structure operates smoothly (servers, Wi-Fi, network, etc).

getting access to any of the systems

these devices into classroom learning. He loves it when the tech-

at BIS. Mirko sets up all the teachers

nology provided by the IT Team solves the needs and issues in

and students with login access, pass-

the classroom. With education and how we pursue it at BIS ever

words, mail accounts and Google

changing, there is always a new challenge that Jure is ready to

accounts. Without these, communi-

take on. Recently, when an entire grade was taking a test via

27

28

WAVES Winter 2016-2017 | Student News

Student News | Winter 2016-2017 WAVES

Student Council Article The leaders of tomorrow are leading today in BIS’s Student Council. Headed by our Class President,

SOPHIE

Andrea Jonsson, with the support of her Vice President Grisha, the Student Council has plans to change our school for the better. Other members of the board include Abigail as Secretary, Sophie as Treasurer,

GRISHA

Juanita as Events Manager, Katie as Publicity ANDREA

MEGAN

ABIGAIL

of

Experience

Manager, and Megan. Together, they answer the JUANITA

KATIE

The Benefit

needs of the student body to ensure all students feel

As a student in Grade 10, one of the requirements I must

welcome and comfortable in their school. Things that

complete during the school year is a short-term work experience.

have been done already include the new and

This past summer, I was lucky enough to get into contact with

refined dress code, changes to bathroom supplies and

a company with the help of one of the parents at BIS.

Grade 9-12 school dance. These are only a few examples of their accomplishments. They plan to organise

The company I worked for is a small robotics start-up based in

further events such as the end of the year BBQ.

London. Their main goal is to create new, affordable technology that will help assist others in their daily lives. I was genuinely

Student Council serves the students of the BIS community, and concerns felt by both parents and students deserve their attention.

interested in what they were developing and hoped I could con-

If you have any, contact any member of the board, for your voice deserves to be heard.

tribute something valuable. During the weeks I was working for this start-up, I was given different tasks, such as logo and slogan

GSA

The GSA, or Gay Straight Alliance, is a key aspect of the BIS’ community as it spreads ideas of tolerance and acceptance - two extremely important characteristics of an

international school. In light of some of the horrendous events of today’s world, these

characteristics are essential to developing a more welcoming and supportive society.

This may be achieved through education about gender and sexuality, as well as the spread of awareness of LGBTQ (Lesbian, Gay, Bi, Trans, Questioning) issues. In order to

development, and article writing for their website. I am incredibly grateful for the tasks I was given because I know that it’s quite unusual, especially when joining a company for such a

Students, we meet on Thursdays in Ms. Redemer’s room (A 1.41). Parent advocates and donations are also always welcome!

short amount of time, that teenagers are offered jobs significant

recommend that teenagers and young people try to find a job

to a major project, such as their bot development.

or internship closely related to what they might want to pursue in their future. Admittedly, at first I was a little reluctant to

I valued this experience so highly because it helped me decide

spend my summer holidays working, but I realized that oppor-

what I might like to do in the future. The various tasks I was

tunities like this are incredibly influential to what a person may

given were all design or writing related, a field I know I want to

become. By exploring different jobs, one can decide what they

be a part of. My employer knew that was the kind of work I was

might want to do, or just as important, if not more so, what they

looking for, which made the whole experience more

don’t want to do.

support LGBTQ youth in not only our own community but in the world, please join your

enjoyable, knowing that I was being given jobs that I would

local GSA!

really be interested in. I was also given advice and mentorship

A real experience, I feel, is similar to a teacher’s influence. If a

after every small project I completed, which was incredibly

teacher is passionate about what they do and the subject they

valuable, since it was coming from a person familiar with

teach, that feeling may latch on to the students and they might

writing and advertising. So, at the end of the internship, I was

feel the same about the topic. If a teacher shows little passion,

able to walk away with so much more knowledge about

students may feel more unsure about the subject and may be

working in the real world and producing effective and relevant

missing out on something they could truly enjoy. By gaining

products. I was lucky enough to be working for incredibly kind,

knowledge about different jobs and opportunities, young

talented, and considerate people, that I was given valuable

people may discover what they love to do and be more prepared

mentorship, and a job that could help me decide whether to

when it comes to choosing a major, or university, especially if

continue on my desired career path.

they are unsure about what they want to pursue. It is better to find where your passions lie now, rather that later.

Some students just want to spend their holidays taking a welldeserved break from school, myself included, but I really do

Claire K. Grade 10

29

30

WAVES Winter 2016-2017 | Community News

31

Community News | Winter 2016-2017 WAVES

Scouts

C

offee Mornings

Grade level coffee mornings began a few years ago and were created as a way to encourage parents with children in the same grade level to

Boy Scouts

Girl Scouts

connect. Particularly in Secondary, with

Boy Scout Troop 56 was established in Bonn 60 years ago. They

USA Girl Scouts Overseas Bonn is comprised of girls from five

our children becoming more indepen-

currently have 25 Scouts from nine different nationalities and

years old through Grade 12. Their focus is to build girls of

dent, it gets more difficult to meet

five Scoutmasters. Camping is one of the main focuses of the

courage, confidence and character, who make the world a

other parents. New parents partake

troop, with a campout taking place each month. Most recently

better place. They do this by biking, hiking and camping; by

since they are looking for connections

a group of these Scouts joined with other troops from Northern

discovering their inner artist; by stepping outside themselves to

in their new community.

Europe to camp on Terschelling Island in the Netherlands.

help those in need. And throughout it all, they support their

Although the weather wasn't perfect, the Scouts had fun hiking,

sister Scouts and have fun!

crossing paths with wild horses and eating camp food.

Monday Morning Runners

The Welcome family Committee.

Welcome Family The Welcome Family Committee does just that - welcomes those new to the school.

By providing a "Helper Family" to families starting at BIS plus information about the area, they aid in easing the transition to both BIS and Bonn. Fun social outings are

Don't be scared off by the name. This is a group of runners,

also organized to encourage more connections between parents. A walk in the City

walkers, run/walkers but most importantly, people who

Park (Rheinaue) in September to appreciate the beauty in our back yards; Bonn on the

support each other and their fitness initiatives. Whether it is

Move to learn how the public transportation system works; museum tours in English

getting off the couch for the first time or training for a

to explore the cultural offerings of the area - all wonderful ways this group supports

marathon, this group offers a positive challenge to all involved.

new people integrating into the BIS community.

The main group meets every Monday morning to traverse the beautiful Kottenforst, swap stories and get a little bit more fit.

If interested, request to join our Monday Morning Runners Facebook group. (Group #657768400967156)

Existing

parents join in to offer a friendly face (or maybe they come just for the delicious food). Either way, it’s an opportunity for connecting and building friendships.

32

33

WAVES Winter 2016-2017 | Community News

Tunnel Project One of the exciting events in 2016 was

by Kathleen Szalay, highlighted the

Korean community was in full swing.

the Tunnel Concert. The project covered

poignant atmosphere with a brilliant

Everybody frantically looked for sponsors.

several educational aspects over the course

performance of Schubert songs and ethnic

The amazing job of keeping all 100

of nine months. "The Tunnel" is a

tunes. In between, one could hear Max

students controlled and fed was organized

historical site where at the end of WWII

Meister with his own compositions as well

by Gunilla Svenningsen.

Allied troops first crossed the Rhine over

as Honoka Kishimoto and Eunbee Hwang

the Bridge of Remagen and thus accelerated

playing the piano.

Thank you for everybody's enthusiasm!

In June 2016 enough money was raised to

the end of the war which resulted in the liberation of Europe from the Nazi

During the preceding weeks, choir and

enable 100 young musicians, dancers, and

regime. Given the nature of an Inter-

musical theatre students took part in

actors to come together with students

national School the Tunnel is an ideal ve-

several dance classes taught by the

from local music schools and experienced

nue to raise awareness of history and its

Oxford Dance Company, Beat-Street.

musicians in the Tunnel, under the Erpeler

effects on the future.

Several times during lunchtime one could

Ley. They were united in the final orchestra

find the PE hall filled with several hundred

Suite "Die Neue Welt" composed by

For this reason, Mr

primary and secondary students and

Dominik Arz.

Dow’s and Mr John-

teachers jumping up and down to techno

son’s IB history classes

music. Abel did a fabulous job joining the

Such a successful collaboration should

interviewed Mr Strohe,

Beat-Street performance, dancing to

encourage us to make the preservation

who was stationed as

music played by small student ensembles.

of peace and understanding between people one of our most important

a teenage soldier at Outside of BIS many young performers

concerns in life. Special thanks go to the

This meeting resulted

around the world practised their routines

SüWAG AG who supported this event

in a dialogue written

for the Tunnel Concert. During the course

with a generous donation.

by theatre students, directed by Janine

of the year some BIS musicians went to

Lockwood. The performance of the trau-

different cities including Oxford, collabo-

the Remagen Bridge.

matic experiences of being an "air-

rating in street performances to help

defence-helper" became the most dramatic

raise money.

scenes at the concert. The words spoken

by Lin and Anton underlined by Brennan's

Closer to the performance date, many

brilliant violin performance, moved the

mums baked cookies for fundraising

spectators to tears. The BIS choir, directed

events. Sushi production among the

by Joanna L. & Annabel H. Grade 12

Bonn | Köln | Bornheim | Troisdorf Düren | Hürth| Gelsenkirchen | Trier

34

WAVES Winter 2016-2017 | Alumni

Alumni | Winter 2016-2017 WAVES

A Personal Project…

Earlier this year I met a few other BIS Alumni in London for a reunion event. Among all the reminiscing, the almighty Personal Project came up. We all had to do that mammoth undertaking in Grade 10. This was back in the 2003-2004 school year for me, and bizarrely enough my project is still being used today…

In 2003, when the much younger version of myself was assigned this massive bit of school work, I couldn’t quite believe it. I could work on anything I wanted for several months (within some fairly

“L

ife is only going to get more difficult at university”.

How many times have I heard this from my parents and teachers at BIS? So I was prepared to work long hours in the library, hardly sleep and have more stress than I had during my Diploma Programme years. Once I got to Scotland, however, I was quite surprised to find everything was easier than expected.

broad academic themes), and get credit for it? Sweet!!

After much brainstorming and ruling out several promising but definitely-not-academic ideas, I landed on building a small motorized off-road buggy. I loved cars, loved

Is IB Really Worth It?

making things, and it ticked all kinds of academic boxes (planning, budgeting, geometry, design, physics…sort of). As with many of these kinds of projects, it turned out to be a At first I thought that my course was

MUCH bigger undertaking than I’d planned for. But after many evenings and weekends in the garage, and a not insignificant amount of time being driven around by my dad to work-

…with a second life

shops, scrapheaps, and steel mills, the project was finished! And would you believe it, it worked!!! Awesome.

But….what do you do with a 250kg motorized offroad buggy when you finish school and head off to university? It certainly doesn’t fit in your average first-year dorm room. And my

shaking and even feeling sick, which

quality work. They are taught how to

found their courses to be easy as well.

resulted in them failing to share their

prioritize work and get through every-

Soon enough I realized that my course

information effectively.

thing while still being able to participate in

mates and friends, who had all graduated

a whole range of extracurricular activities.

mechanical engineering at Sussex University. He was super

with British A levels, found the university

At BIS we were always required to be

It is those skills that prepare one for

interested in hybrid technology, and had a major project coming up

courses demanding and challenging.

organized. Only now do I realize how

university and future jobs!

where they needed to design, build, and test an idea. No prizes for see-

Equally, it dawned on me that all the skills

important this is. Starting from a few

ing where this one is headed…We shipped the buggy down to the uni-

that I had been taught at BIS had prepared

weeks before the deadline, everyone starts

me for university.

The International Baccalaureate Diploma

to panic. They work from early morning to

Programme is a lot of hard work and

late into the night, just before the dead-

requires a great amount of discipline and

The first time I distinctly remember being

line. Some people don’t even manage to

time management. Nevertheless, the

startled at how differently I was perceiving

hand in all projects on time! Yet, I never

result is worth it! All the skills that people

things compared to my peers, was during

work past 10 pm and never have to sit

struggle to learn throughout their later

my first project. In one of my projects we

down all day to catch up on work. I even

life are the ones that make us IB students

being used and delivering value to someone, somewhere. It’s a

had to design different objects according

enjoy university life and play in my

stand out, as we have already learned how

fond reminder of the quite amazing things you’re able to achieve

to specific briefs. During the creation pro-

university’s Division I basketball team. In

to master them. As an IB student I learnt to

when you’re young and full of enthusiasm, and of the great years I

cess we had to present our research and

fact, I am often the first person to finish all

adapt to different environments, work

spent at Bonn. If you ever go to the University of Sussex, and are studying

design approach. These presentations were

my projects! The reason for that was the

with time pressure, strive to achieve my

no more than three minutes long and

time management skills that had been

best work, communicate effectively and,

naturally I presented as always in my

drilled into us from the beginning of the MYP.

finally, learn to master challenges. So now

less occasions throughout my school years,

At BIS, particularly during Grades 9 to 12,

Dundee university, I am also studying

I have internalized all the methods that

students have an incredible number of

Marketing in Bad Honnef, Germany. I can

To find out what Nick has been up to since he left BIS, check out the previous edition of the Waves magazine

make a good presentation, and so my

subjects and an intense workload. To stay

only say, the IB was really worth it!

(www.bonn-is.de/community/waves). If you are curious about what he is up to now, take a look at his current

presentation at uni was a breeze. My class

on top of all those assignments, students

passion www.near.st

mates were clearly not comfortable to

are taught to work in a structured and

able to successfully convert it into a hybrid off-road buggy. After they comple-

suggested that perhaps the garage at

ted the project, the buggy remained in the mechanical engineering

home wasn’t the best place for it.

department and is still being used as a platform for BSc students to test and learn about hybrid engine technology. To me it seems absolutely crazy that something I did in 2003-2004 is still

mechanicalengineering…let me know if the buggy is still there!

Nick Brackenbury, Class of 2006

efficient way in order to hand in good

simply not demanding and everyone else

Conveniently, my flatmate and best friend was studying

versity, and so began its second academic life. My friend and his team were

parents, while proud of it, politely

present their work, mumbling, visibly

classes at BIS. Having presented on count-

apart from studying Product Design at

Anna Ruben, Class of 2015

35

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WAVES Winter 2016-2017 | BIS in Photos

BIS in Photos

BIS in Photos | Winter 2016-2017 WAVES

Grade 5 PYP Graduation Graduation Class 2016

Garden Club

Football

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38

WAVES Winter 2016-2017 | BIS in Photos

BIS in Photos | Winter 2016-2017 WAVES

Richtfest Cross Country

International Day

Student Work

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WAVES BONN INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL Martin-Luther-King-Strasse 14 53175 Bonn www.bonn-is.de

We inspire excellence.