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5 Message from the School Chaplain 31 A Solution Made in Heaven PUBLICATION INFORMATION: AD Astra is published four times a year by Ruamrudee International School. The objective of the publication is to report on and communicate happenings at Ruamrudee International School. At least 1,500 copies are printed per issue to send directly to all students and their families. AD Astra is also distributed among our faculty and staff numbering over 500, and mailed to RIS alumni and friends. The RIS family is a large and growing community of international citizens.
AD ASTRA TEAM Editor: Sudha Maroli
Contributing Editor: Neil B Dwyer
Graphics Design/Layout: Sornchai Pongheamwattana
Coordinator: Isrin O’ Conners
Printed by ADVANCED PRINTING SERVICE CO.,LTD.
RUAMRUDEE INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL 6 Ramkhamhaeng 184, Minburi, Bangkok 10510 Tel: +66 (0) 2791 8900 Fax: +66 (0) 2791 8901-2 Website: www.rism.ac.th E-mail: info@rism.ac.th
Father Leo Travis 6 Letter from the Editor Sudha Maroli 7 Gala Extraordinaire Notes Neil B Dwyer 8 RIS’s Thai Department Receives 5-year Accreditation Sudarat Tanattanawin 9 Celebrities Hitting RIS Catwalk and Giving Big! Sudarat Tanattanawin 12 Service Learning Advisory Committee @RIS Sudarat Tanattanawin 13 What Does a Librarian Assistant Do? Gr. 11 Student Assistant 14 Chinese New Year Celebration 16 Science Showcase Randy Merker 18 Celebrating Dr.Seuss, Celebrating Reading Amy Diefendorf 20 PreSchool Games Day 21 Elementary School Games Day 22 MS Teachers’ day Ceremony Asawin Mungai 24 Grade 7 Writer’s Gain National Attention in Thai Journalism Competition 25 Saving the Sudanese Chanamon Pongphaew (Mint) 26 6,246 Miles Away From Home Voraya Vorapanyasakul (WowWow) 27 Middle School Games Day 28 Exploring the Kingdom Gretchen DePoint 30 MS Knowledge Bowl 31 Science Writing: Solubility & Creativity Sabrena Baiagern
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31 A Grandmother’s Lesson Shan Shan
32 The Majestic Mythical Adventures of Edward the Sugar Crystal Build 34 Celebrate New Year in Japanese class!!! Pinky, Poom and Kevin 36 Memories and Skills for a Liftetime Kay Rambaud 37 UKMT and AMC Math Competitions Uma Shivayogimath 38 Beyond the tests and quizzes Paige Prescott 39 High School Sports Day 40 HS Knowledge Bowl 42 DRAMA, DRAMA, DRAMA! Shorna Shand 44 RIS Choirs “CELEBRATE” Catherine Bennett 45 A Lively semester with Vivace Catherine Bennett 46 An Interview with Ms. Nimfa Moreto ES Theater Arts Teacher 48 RiSe ib art year 1 exhibition 49 Unseen Heroes Kay Rambaud 50 RIS Athletics Gerry Steiert 52 Can Ya Go To Kenya? Torie Leinbach 53 PHOTO of the Day Neil B Dwyer 54 Fun at the babies home! Pavla Poch
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Message from the School Chaplain I
n the previous AD ASTRA I wrote about the Peace Pole that stands in the courtyard between our High School and Middle School. In several languages, “May Peace Prevail on Earth” is inscribed into the stone column. ‘Peace’ is our school’s message too. I pass by the Pole now and then and whisper a prayer for Peace. Maybe you do the same. Shortly after reciting the “Our Father” during the morning Catholic Mass each day I speak to the people with the Blessing “The Peace of the Lord be with you always” Then we share a short moment to offer each other a sign of Peace. It is a meaningful and happy moment. I feel that this blessing flows over to all the members of RIS. May Peace be with you!!! I offer this Blessing to each of you, for I appreciate your presence. I am grateful that you are with me at RIS. You form a peaceful community. I thank you for this.
hockey sticks. Sporting seminarians felt sad about these February woes. But there was always hope, for the football field would be ready for soccer and baseball in the warmer weather. At RIS, February is sometimes like that for me - good news and warnings of sad news. With the Directors of the school off to America to look for a few new teachers, I always worry about the decisions of our teachers of staying with us at RIS or moving away. I have great respect for all of the teachers who are with us, and really hope that all will have many, many more years with us. I always fear to ask “are there any teachers leaving?” This always turns out to be a very sad topic for me, and I fear to be informed, February is like that for me at RIS. I certainly appreciate every one of our Teachers, and pray that all will remain at RIS. Secrets begin to sneak out in February about a few who will go. I am saddened by this news. I pray for them. I know that their decision was difficult to make, for they have witnessed the love of their students. I thank them for their love for their students and for RIS. May the months ahead be happy for them. May they carry happy memories of RIS into their future. We will miss them.
This school year has been a wonderful year for all of our students and teachers. 2013 ended with general joy of Christmas parties and then a Holiday. Chinese New Year brought us quickly into the month of February, 2014. It is time to prepare the AD ASTRA. Enjoy this AD ASTRA, announcing Good News of accomplishments of our students and teachers! We look forward with confidence to many accomplishments at RIS. We also move ahead with the prayer “May Peace I close this letter today, with sincere appreciation of all Prevail at Ruamrudee” RIS personnel for their constant care and love for the students of Ruamrudee. God bless you! And may you Since I began writing this letter in February, let me be at Peace! write “about February.” February, for some reason, has always been a different type of month for me. During my Theology study I lived in a seminary right at the edge of a very large and beautiful lake in Wisconsin. During the months of December, January and most of February the lake was frozen and the ice was strong. Father Leo Travis, C.Ss.R. We had plenty of space for hockey rinks and iceboating. School Chaplain However, by the end of February some warmer weather made it obvious that in just a couple of weeks we must get the ice boats off the ice and pack away the AD Astra Volume 9 February 2014
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n the last few months I have been challenged, most often pleasantly, to see life as eternal and then again as very transitory. I just returned from a trail of recruitment fairs, which posed fairly unusual challenges. I am hard wired to think that apart from the fact we are a great school we are also located in an extraordinary country and the in most coveted city in the world. So the reservation exhibited by candidates was a really humbling experience. Quite a few of them had questions about the emergency situation, political instability and safety concerns. The wait for the right candidates seemed eternal. The wait and the resilience definitely bore fruits and we got some exceptional professionals who have signed up. The Gala Extraordinaire from what I am told is a success story; one that brought in the community from the past and the present together. The performances were spectacular – plethora of talents. Our students and teachers made RIS very proud. The MC was an alumnus! Martina’s professional confidence and her for love for RIS were evidenced in the zeal of how she presented the evening. Oriental Hotel, in its own inimitable style presented a gourmet meal that seems to linger in people pallets to this very day. People were dressed, from ostentatious, elegant to consummate. Scrumptious wines and the tantalizing dance music made the evening complete. But alas, they were all so transitory. Hidden from the view were the struggles and adversities in planning a festivity with this magnitude. The rather young School Advancement department made it happen with the gracious help of a very noteworthy few. You know who you are and thank you for being who you are. Delusional I may be, but I wish we had a gala each month! After all schools are rooted in the spirit of teaching resilience and I am an eternal optimist!
Sudha Maroli Deputy Head of School 6
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hank you to all students, families, staff, and alumni for making the RISing to the 60’s Gala Extraordinaire a wonderful success. Guests were treated to incredible student performances organized by Ms. Nimfa and our Performing Arts Team as well as a special conductor, kindergartener Por Por Thangsumphant leading the RIS Stage Wind Ensemble. If the student numbers were not impressive enough, those gathered were delighted with performances by renowned pianist Indhuon accompanied by her daughter as well as the exceptional talents of students Fasai Phuathavornskul (Violin) & Baipor Phuathavornskul (Cello). Most importantly all guests were excited to celebrate Fr. Travis and extend their appreciation and congratulations as he received a Papal Blessing for his years of service. Thank you again to all who joined us and supported this magnificent event. AD Astra Volume 9 February 2014
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RIS’s Thai Department
Receives 5-year Accreditation By Sudarat Tanattanawin, Director of Thai Studies & Human Resources
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IS’s Thai Language and Culture Department received full accreditation from the Office for National Education Standards and Quality Assessment (ONESQA). The public organization, recognized by the Thailand Ministry of Education, works hand in hand with WASC reviewing Thai language programs in international schools every five years. Earlier this year our Thai department was evaluated using criteria focusing on our establishment of expectations for the department’s mission, goals, evaluation and planning, as well as its organization pertaining to setting, administration, resources, programs, service, faculty and students.
interviewed school administrators, faculty, students, and parents. The team also inspected the school’s facilities, examines documentation corroborating the self-study and prepares a report of its findings. Finally, the report is reviewed by the ONESQA board responsible for granting accreditation.
For full accreditation, RIS’s Thai department was required by ONESQA to conduct a self-evaluation and submit a self-study report detailing how the department meets each criterion. A team of qualified reviewers, sent by ONESQA, conducts an on-site visit to validate the findings of the self-study. During the site visit, the team
RIS would like to thank our faculty, staff, students, parents and community representatives who contributed to the self-study and participated during the site visit. Achievement of Thai accreditation could not be possible without the cooperation and effort of every member of our school community.
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We are pleased that ONESQA awarded the Thai program at Ruamrudee International School full accreditation for all areas of its performance over the next five years, making RIS a fully accredited school, domestically and internationally, until October 2018.
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hen Typhoon Haiyan, one of the strongest typhoons ever recorded in history, hit the Philippines on November 2013, the Redemptorist Fathers of Cebu appealed for help from their fellow Redemptorists around the world. Ruamrudee International School, with the help of our community members and friends, quickly responded. The school community was united in solidarity in pulling together a series of events and fundraisers under an umbrella project called Come through for Cebu. The goal is to provide immediate and continued support to the people in Tacloban, where thousands have been left homeless and are taking shelter in the Redemptorist church and monastery or seeking medical assistance.
Fashion for a Cause, a fashion show fundraiser took place on December 10, 2013 from 6:00 pm-8:00 pm. The event featured a holiday collection from Ms. Len Nepomuceno, a famous Filipino designer, and a winter collection from Royal Ivy Regatta. RIS was honored to have special guest models, including the Honorable Kristie Kenney, Ambassador of the United States of America to Thailand. Administrators, teachers, parents and students enjoyed live music and songs from RIS alumni and larger expat community. It was a terrific evening filled with great communal spirit and a worthy cause contributing towards rebuilding homes and lives for the people of Tacloban.
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Service Learning Advisory Committee @Ruamrudee International School By Sudarat Tanattanawin, Director of Thai Studies & Human Resources
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or over five decades, the Redemptorist priests have been working relentlessly to foster a sense of service by providing opportunities for the Ruamrudee International School community to engage and support the neediest people at the local and international levels. In an effort to cultivate campus-wide service engagement and provide appropriate service learning infrastructure and resourcing within a centralized body, RIS Service Learning Advisory Committee was established at the beginning of this school year. Since its inception, the committee has been fast at work, pulling together, sustainable as well as immediate community work that provides opportunities for academic learning, civic development, and social awareness. The implementation of two signature programs, Prison Learning Project and Sarnelli Reading & Writing Camp, have been a great success. The Prison Learning Project provides continuing education for Minburi prison inmates affording them a better chance in future careers upon return to their community. Twice a week for a period of five months, a selected group of prisoners attend English lessons taught by a dedicated group of RIS teachers and parent volunteers. Sarnelli Reading & Writing Camp is run by the Thai department. The week before Songkran, teachers and students travel to Sarnelli House, a Redemptorist orphanage in Nongkhai to run a 4- day Thai language camp for HIV affected children who are reading and writing challenged. Through participation in these long term projects, stakeholders gain increased understanding of their respective roles as citizens in a diverse society. Likewise, immediate response efforts are emphasized when a necessary need is identified. When Typhoon Haiyan, one of the strongest typhoons ever recorded in history, hit the Philippines on November 2013, the Redemptorist Fathers of Cebu appealed for help from their fellow Redemptorists around the world. RIS quickly responded quickly and united in solidarity to Come through for Cebu and support the people in Tacloban where thousands are homeless and currently taking shelter in the Redemptorist church and monastery. Funds of nearly 420,000 baht have been accumulated to date.
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Prison Learning Project
Sarnelli Reading & Writing Camp The Service Learning Advisory Committee was proud to help raise these funds through a series of programs including a charity buffet lunch-basketball game, Jeans Day, fashion show, contributions from a book sale, an art auction as well as the charitable donations made by alumni and individual donors. RIS’s service-learning program is supported by the Office of Curriculum and Professional Development which is within the division of academic affairs and is guided by the Service Learning Advisory Committee. If you would like to support our causes please reach out to Ms. Sudarat Tanattanawin at sudarata@rism.ac.th.
What Does a Librarian Assistant Do? Gr. 11 Student Assistant
Libraries have the reputation for being “that quiet place with lots of books and strict librarians always telling you to hush”. In reality, the library is a busy facility with lots of behind-the-scenes activity taking place. I asked our Gr. 11 student assistant to write up her perspective on working in the library and interacting with the library staff. -Dr. Grier
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he beginning of the school year is always hard, and usually made harder by the course changes. Some students, like me, change their courses as often as they change clothes. What was I expected to do when the classes offered this year sparked no intellectual interest? (Though there might be some other hidden motives, you never know.) Why...create one for myself, of course! I’ve always been an avid reader, so the idea of snooping around the library for 70 minutes didn’t seem so bad. Learning how the library works and what the people involved with it do struck me as something particularly fascinating. After all, how many students get the opportunity to see all of it first-hand? With this thought in mind, I decided to become a librarian assistant. My new (non-paying) job involves an amusing mix of fun and tedious work, though the latter rarely happens. I make online reading lists according to reading level and genre, and compile lists of appealing award-winning books. Sometimes I also help come up with ideas for book displays and assist the librarians in decorating the boards for each new theme (for example, Halloween, Chinese New Year, etc.). And because of the staff shortage at Elizabeth Library, I go there to help from
time to time. There are other dozens of things I do here at Griffith Library, but they are simply too numerous to recall. My favorite jobs, however, wer when I helped with the Christmas “What Book is in the Box” contest and the days when I read the shelves. Spreading the word about the contest to my friends and trying to convince (and okay, sometimes forcing) them to participate was pure fun. I loved how some of them were so desperate to win the prize money, with a few even asking me for the answers, though to no avail. As for reading the shelves, I like the silence and peacefulness that come with it. What’s better than reading book spines to arrange the books in appropriate order? So, these are some of the things a librarian assistant does. But what I’m even more fond of than the experience I’ve gained is the help and friendliness that the library staff and Dr. Grier have given me; I’m very grateful for their assistance. And now that you know they are far from scary, don’t be afraid to stop in and to drop by the library! (But no sleeping and excessive gossiping, please.) AD Astra Volume 9 February 2014
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Chinese New Year
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Celebration
HS and MS students working togerher on a cooperative learning project
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Science Showcase
By Randy Merker
I wonder‌.
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n February 21, we filled Godbout Hall with curiosity, enthusiasm, and elementary school students excited to tell all they have learned about science. The hall was buzzing for more than two hours with activities, science demonstrations, parents, students and teachers from all three sections of our school.
What would life be like without opposable thumbs? Grade 3 had experiments to help you experience this question. How are plants, crayfish, and snails similar? What are the structures of life that they share? Be sure to ask a Grade 4 student to explain this to you. Grade 5 demonstrated their understanding of mixtures and solutions using their superb digital skills.
If you were curious about air and weather, Grade 1 was the group to see. They were prepared to explain how meteorologists study air pressure, wind, clouds, temperature, and water to forecast our weather. Grade 2 was prepared to help you explore the properties of solids and liquids, as well as the life cycles of insects.
Senior Bhon Bunnag, who has been with RIS since Kindergarten, demonstrated his electromagnetic cannon and explained why science is now his passion and his future. ES students Donovan, Sushi, Amy, and Soham reflected on what has interested them about science and how they think it is important for their lives. Ms.
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Kim and her elementary school choir treated us to an international debut of their performance “I Wonder”, lyrics written by Ms. Kim. Bringing the Showcase to an end, Nong Pai and Tata invited Mr. Randy to nap on a bed of 100 nails, which he was tempted to do after they showed him that his balloon pillow wouldn’t pop on the bed. You know, I wonder, “Why didn’t that balloon pop even with five math books stacked on top?” Equipped with our five senses, we explore the universe around us and call the adventure Science. - Edwin Powell Hubble AD Astra Volume 9 February 2014
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Celebrating
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Dr.Seuss
Celebrating
Reading
By Amy Diefendorf
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he Elementary Section of RIS celebrated our love for reading and World Book Day by hosting a Dr. Seuss Week. Throughout the last week of February numerous events celebrating the entertaining and creative works of Dr. Seuss occurred. On Monday, the week kicked off with an assembly spotlighting the events of the week, showcasing Dr. Seuss songs by our chorus and their director Ms. Kim, allowing students time to view creative Dr. Seuss artwork designed by grade 5 students, and even having a special guest appearance from Thing 1 & 2 and the Cat in the Hat himself. Tuesday, February 25, was Cat in the Hat Day and the elementary school sponsored a photo booth. Cool props and great Cat in the Hat outfits helped bring the fun. Even while we have fun at RIS we try to serve others: all money collected from the photo booth was used to buy mosquito nets for refugees on the Thailand/ Myanmar border. On Wednesday the 26th, students
and staff had the chance to sport their favorite Dr. Seuss costume and the creativity would have made Dr. Seuss extraordinarily proud. One of the biggest days, was Thursday when our beloved Pre-K teacher, Ms. Mo, organized a huge book swap. At the swap, students brought in gently used books and swapped them for books brought in by other students. It was a win-win event, with everyone leaving with a “new to you” book. As the week closed out on Friday, students were able to wear their pajamas to school, have a special “read-in” time, and enjoy a yummy snack of “Hop on Popcorn and Pink Yink Ink Drink”. During Dr. Seuss week, our ES community celebrated what we instill every day: Reading is Fun and Fundamental! AD Astra Volume 9 February 2014
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PreSchool Games Day
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Elementary School Games Day
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MS TEACHERS’ DAY CEREMONY By Asawin Mungai
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eachers’ day here at Ruamrudee International School was a very heartwarming and memorable day for all teachers and students. In every direction you look you would see smiles from ear to ear and occasionally tears of joy. Students were giving garlands to their respective teachers while saying simple but meaningful words. Teachers’ day is a time where students express how grateful and thankful they are to their teachers. Here at RIS we are one big family and as a family we love and care for each other. Teachers’ day is another day where we express that love and care. We students wish the best to all the teachers here at RIS. Happy Teachers’ day!
Nina Grade 7.2 Teachers’ Day at RIS is a day when we express our love and appreciation to the ones who gave us knowledge. On this memorable day, students give their teachers garlands and flowers to express their gratitude. Teachers work very hard to ensure that we, as students, are properly educated, and endure many hardships to fulfill their duty as best as they can. Teachers’ Day at RIS is a special day where we can show how grateful we are. As a student, I am very thankful to be learning under such wonderful and dedicated people. I am sure that other students feel the same. Thank you teachers!
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Teachers’ day is considered to be a very special occasion in Thailand, for students give thanks to all the effort teachers have given to teach them. “It was as if a void in my heart was filled, being able to express my gratitude to my teachers, and being able to participate in this kind of event. Since the teachers have done their best teaching us new and different things, we were able to explore the world that we couldn’t have without their efforts, and for that we are grateful. It has been pleasures to be able repay our teacher’s kindness and efforts to inspire us with our own way of thanks.”
Air Grade 7-1 On January 16th, all of Thailand celebrates one of the most respectful ceremonies all-yearlong - Teacher’s Day. On behalf of all RIS students, I would like to thank every teacher in RIS for all of their hard work and effort to teach us new things every day. Without your help and guidance, we would not have as much success and happiness as we have, due to all of the knowledge that you have given us. Every teachers’ day, I along with many other students, want to thank you and apologize for all the unproductive behavior that we have shown. Thank you
Kantabhat Pimolsaengsuriya Grade 7.1 Flower garlands, bowed heads in respect, and smiles all around. Yes, if someone walked into Ruamrudee Middle School on January 16th they would have definitely seen the students paying quiet respect to our amazing teachers here at RIS. Of course no RIS event would be complete without fits of happy laughter or joyful cheers. We all know it has been a great year full of hard work and sometimes, a bit of fun, too. Teachers and students here at RIS share an indescribable bond that is celebrated at the teachers’ day ceremony. Giving delicate and beautiful flower garlands to teachers is just a symbolic way to represent the love and respect we have for our teachers. One special day dedicated to the innumerable teachers all across Thailand.
Sydney Grade 7.5 This morning’s Teacher’s Day assembly was really special! I did not really know what to expect as I had never taken part in one before. It was a great feeling to be recognized and the students were very sweet and respectful.
Clare McDermott - MS Teacher AD Astra Volume 9 February 2014
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Grade 7 Writer’s Gain National Attention in
Thai Journalism Competition
Chanamon Pongphaew (Mint)
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he Amnesty International “Thailand’s Young Journalist of the Year” writing competition is recognizing two Ruamrudee Middle School students as finalists in their annual journalism competition.
Voraya Vorapanyasakul (WowWow)
For the finals, Mint and WowWow will prepare a presentation on their essays to perform in front of judges March 14, 2014, at the Regent’s School of Pattaya. They will also attend a journalistic writing workshop, and will attend the awards ceremony that same day where the Seventh grade Social Studies students Chanamon winner of the 2013-14 Young Journalist of the Year will “Mint” Pongphaew of Miss Deneen’s class, and Voraya be announced for Thailand. “WowWow” Vorapanyasakul of Mrs. Caroline’s class, are two of only twenty students selected nationwide The journalistic writing competition is sponsored to attend the final journalism writing competition in by Amnesty International of Thailand. Amnesty March. Their essays, on the plight of refugees of eastern International has always encouraged young people to Africa, were written as a grade level assignment at the get involved in world issues, and journalism plays a key end of the Social Studies unit on the conflict in Sudan. role in exposing human rights abuses. Journalists are crucial in the battle to protect and promote human rights Mint’s and WowWow’s essays were chosen by a across the globe. This competition hopes to inspire pre-selection committee at Ruamrudee in December a new generation of writers to take up the mantle and to represent RIS at the national competition. Seven continue the fight. other students in seventh grade also had their essays evaluated as semi-finalists and received certificates during a middle school assembly for their outstanding work: Natnicha “Milk” Amonpitak, Christy Jefrin James Chandrajith, Sirivimol “Mook” Kanwaseth, Jirawatchara “Alex” Tanthiptham, Jehuan “Jackie” Wu, Prima Suntornwipart, and Wilawan “Singrhu” Poltanawasit.
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Saving the Sudanese by Chanamon Pongphaew (Mint) refugee camps until 1991, but were forced to leave by the Ethiopian government. The Lost Boys had a treacherous journey crossing the Gilo River as they walked back to Sudan and on to Kenya. More than 2,000 died in this journey, and only 10,000 survived. Thousands of refugees were then shot by soldiers, eaten by wild animals, drowned, starved, and infected by diseases and dehydration. The boys arrived at Kenya in 1992 at the Kakuma Refugee Camp. In January 2001, 4,000 Lost Boys journeyed again, now to the United States.
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t was past midnight when men dressed in heavy armor clothes gripped pistols preparing to shoot. They were towering giants with the look of plain hatred stricken across their faces. People in the villages tried to cower into their mud houses. Bullets tumbled out - its heavy, metal lead aimed at villagers. People who hadn’t managed to hide were sprawled on the ground, blood strewn everywhere. Glasses and windows shattered; the mud huts were flames that blazed up and flickered with the wind. The fire spread and the tips of the flames turned everything to ash. Screams of agony were heard throughout the village, and smoke rose from shacks into the orange eerie-glow of the sky. The air was covered with thick blankets of ashes and smoke; we ran desperately for our lives.
Since 1992, UNICEF tried to relocate the boys’ families, but only 12,000 reunited; 17,000 still live in camps. Many still need our help. Volunteer with aid organizations, give money for medical help, education, clean food, and sanitation through UNICEF, Feed the Children, and the Red Cross. In a survey of seventh grade international students, everyone agreed that the refugees’ most essential needs are nutrition, shelter, and education, and 42% agreed that donations for refugees should put toward food and shelter. Everyone concluded that sending refugees to the United States is a good start for the Lost Boys to have a better life where they can receive education and someday come back to Sudan to improve their home country. Even though life in the United States can be harsh, it is worth it. Clearly, these children need your help. Every donation counts. The Lost Boys that escaped from their villages were Everyone makes a difference. orphaned. These Sudanese children escaped from their country as long ago as 1980; approximately 20,000 children from 7-17 years of age were driven apart from their families when North and South Sudan were Sources: fighting each other for power. The North Sudanese 1. http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/africa/3602724.stm government sent militia armies to execute people in 2. http://www.lostboyschicago.com/LostBoys.htm the South and destroy their homes, attacking villages at 3. http://www.lostboyschicago.com/index.htm night, Sudanese boys, some only four years old, were 4. http://www.news.cornell.edu/stories/2013/10/ lost-boy-sudan-cornell-grad-student forced to flee with nothing, so they formed groups and relied on one another for food and shelter. The Lost 5. http://123helpme.com/story-of-an-immigrantview.asp?id=153038 Boys traveled only at night and slept during the day 6. http://www.unicef.org/sowc96/closboys.htm for fear the soldiers would capture and kill them. They walked 1,200 miles to reach Ethiopia and stayed in AD Astra Volume 9 February 2014
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6,246 Miles Away From Home by Voraya Vorapanyasakul (WowWow) The journey would be filled with wonderment. They were speechless and amazed by even the plane ride itself. What were the buttons on the seats? What did the big screen in front of them do? And, were they really hovering in the air, above the ground? Their questions and awe didn’t stop there. It continued throughout their initial months and years in America. There was so much new technology, cultures, concepts and gadgets to learn about. Yet, life in America was not always easy and the Lost Boys did experience challenges and obstacles such as, racism. They were different and therefore, discriminated against and judged by their skin color and ethnicity. As well, the culture was so foreign that it was hard to adjust and fit in. However, most Lost Boys overcame these difficulties and managed to learn English, receive an education and find employment.
hump thump thump. Heartbeats boomed in anticipation so loudly that you could almost hear it. The Lost Boys gathered, eager to search the list, hoping to see their name. Their destiny was on the paper- their hopes clung like the staples on the board. This list would change some lives forever, while others would continue to wait. Although they started with a struggle, some of the Lost Boys were actually successful in the US such as, The Lost Boys escaped from the bloodshed of the second Salva Dut. He was one of the lucky Lost Boys to fly to civil war in South Sudan during the 1980’s. They trekked America and survive the obstacles. Presently, he leads across the country without their parents, suffered from a huge organization called, Water for Sudan that builds diseases, starvation, dehydration, and other dangers such wells for the South Sudanese. Also, the John Dau Sudan as, ambushes from rebel groups and attacks from lions. Foundation, African Soul; American Heart, The New Eventually they found safety in the refugee camp in Sudan Education Initiative, Southern Sudan Initiatives Kakuma, Kenya. They started their journey with more and many other organizations were created by Lost Boys. than 20,000 boys ranging from all ages and arrived in Resettling these boys allowed them to successfully change Kenya with 17,000 people (Unicef 1996). their world. Let’s support more initiatives like these.
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The Lost Boys spent approximately ten years in Kakuma with little hope of a better life. Kakuma was a living hell for many of the refugees and as war raged on in the Sudan, there was little prospect of returning home until opportunity knocked at their door offering them another chance. America was 6246 miles away; away from the hardships in Kakuma, away from the war in Sudan. America was offering the Lost Boys a new life through a resettlement program, in which a few thousand boys would be offered the chance to live in the USA and receive education and employment. They were interviewed as prospective candidates and the chosen ones had their names posted on the list to go. 26
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Sources: 1. Who We Are. (n.d.). The Hope Of Sudan -. Retrieved December 12, 2013, from http://www. hopeofsudan.org/who-we-are.php 2. The lost boys of the Sudan. (n.d.). The lost boys of the Sudan. Retrieved December 9, 2013, from http://www.unicef.org/sowc96/closboys.htm 3. Park, L. S. (2010). A Long Walk to Water: Based on a True Story: a novel. Boston: Clarion Books. 4. The Lost Boys of Sudan: 12 years later. (n.d.). CBSNews. Retrieved December 12, 2013, from http://www.cbsnews.com/news/the-lostboys-of-sudan-12-years-later-02-04-2013/
Middle School Games Day
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Exploring the Kingdom By Gretchen DePoint t the end of semester one, December 17th the entire Middle School went on grade level trips titled, “Explore the Kingdom”. Each trip had its own focus and yet the main goal was to provide experiences where students could make new friends, strengthen existing relationships and learn outside of the traditional classroom walls and challenge themselves in various outdoor activities.
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in numerous activities that helped students develop teamwork, leadership, and cooperative skills through activities which included a ropes course challenge as well as a water challenge. The students showed off their various talents by participating in the nightly karaoke and talent show programs. Many students showed personal growth by trying activities that challenged them and forced them out of their comfort zone. Overall, it was a fantastic trip with fabulous students.
The 6th grade students spent three days in Khao Yai national park, where they got to explore nature and make new connections with their classmates. Students had the opportunity to hike in the forest, participate in a night safari, and learn about the roles and responsibilities that humans have in protecting natural resources. Students showed tremendous growth in learning how to manage on their own and “rough” it. This trip only further highlighted the incredible attributes that RIS students possess.
This year, Grade 8 students visited Khao Yai National Park and participated in numerous activities including rock climbing, kayaking, archery, and Thai cooking. Students bonded over touch football games with Mr. Derek, roasted marshmallows around the campfire, and impressed Mr. Olivier with their cooking skills. The highlight of the trip for most students was sleeping in tents under the beautiful December sky. Like the 6th and 7th grade trips, the grade 8 students were able to enjoy The Grade 7 students went on an action packed three day adventures, time bonding, and a greater sense of self. trip to PaNgam Mountain Lodge where they engaged AD Astra Volume 9 February 2014
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Science Writing: Solubility & Creativity Ms. Sabrena’s Grade 9 Introduction to Chemistry & Physics class had been learning about matter this second semester and one of the topics they discussed was solubility (how one substance dissolves in another). Students were asked to write a creative short story about how sugar is dissolved in water demonstrating their knowledge of solubility. Here are a couple of great examples from our 9th graders.
A Solution Made in Heaven
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n the land of Substancia, there lived Salt Girl, a solute who weighs 50 grams trying to find her one true love; the solvent called Prince Water who has a volume of 10mL. Together, they could achieve their dream of being the best saturated solution in the history of Substancia. But Salt Girl’s family did not want her to marry Prince Water. They wanted her to dissolve with Prince Water II who has the volume of 100mL. That would just make her become an unsaturated solution with Prince Water II, so she refused to be engaged with him. Salt Girl decided to set off to find someone that could help her find the Charming Prince Water. After miles and miles of wandering aimlessly in the vast land of Substancia, Salt Girl stumbled upon a dilapidated hut that looked like it could crumble down any minute. A Solubility Matchmaker lived inside of it. He was famous for matching solutes and solvents together so that they could dissolve happily as a supersaturated solution, saturated solution, or an unsaturated solution. There was a method of doing this. First the matchmaker would have to look at the quantity of solute that is dissolved in a given volume of solution using the units g/mL of g/L. Then he predicts the saturation level of each pair at different
A Grandmother’s Lesson
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felt a cold, metallic object scooping me up. Immensely petrified, I held my breath as I was taken out of my temporary, paper abode. “Make sure the solution is dilute!” said an elderly lady in a husky voice. The world outside of where I lived was humongous and fascinating. On the walls were wooden cupboards. Below them sat a tiny oven and a stove. Definitely a kitchen.
by Move temperatures. This will determine whether the pair will become a supersaturated solution, saturated solution or an unsaturated solution. One of the Solubility Matchmaker’s clients were King Sugar and Queen H20. They wanted to be a supersaturated solution, so the Solubility Matchmaker decided that they should go on a honeymoon with a temperature of 100°C. The matchmaker was very accurate, since after the king and queen cooled down, there was more solute than there would be in a cooler temperature. Thus, Baby Candy was born. Later, when the meeting with the SM was over, Salt Girl went to the castle to find Prince Water. They decided that today was the day to dissolve. Prince Water called his servants to bring him a large beaker. He descended himself in a graduated cylinder and the servants poured 10ml of him in a beaker. At the same time, Salt Girl dropped herself in the beaker as well. The servants stirred and stirred and stirred. With 50 grams of Salt Girl as the solute and only 10 mL of Prince Water, they formed a saturated solution because it cannot dissolve any more of Salt Girl under given conditions. So that day, both of them pursued their dreams as becoming the best saturated solution couple ever and dissolved happily ever after.
by Shan Shan were they doing with me? Would they freeze or heat me up? Would they toss me in the trash? My mind was brimming with questions. “Grandma, can you explain to me which is which?” asked a little boy.
“The sugar you’re currently holding is called the solute. Two massive figures stood in front of me, one of which The transparent liquid that will dissolve it is called the was holding me in what looked like a spoon. What solvent.” AD Astra Volume 9 February 2014
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My heart instantly sank as the words left the grandmother’s mouth. They were going to dissolve me in water! All of my entire life, I genuinely loathed anything that had to do with liquid, specifically water, cocoa, coffee, and tea. I stared at the smiling little boy, hoping to be pitied. Then I realized that I was just a sugar. Suddenly I felt simultaneously obligated and reluctant to my purpose. I closed my eyes, anticipating the worst to happen. I felt the adrenaline rushing through me as the boy gingerly flipped the spoon, and me, into a glass of boiling water.
It was excruciating. I tried to scream for help, but the agony obstructed my throat. The water was scorching as a burning sensation viciously entered my body. I was now coveting cold and snow. I longed for the freezer or Antarctica. Anywhere but here. I could barely see the indistinct, little boy as he stirred me around. The whole world around me spun frantically as I gasped for air. Before I could be utterly dissolved, the last words that I vaguely heard from the grandmother were, “This is an unsaturated solution right, my dear boy.”
The Majestic Mythical Adventures of Edward the Sugar Crystal
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here once was a tiny sugar crystal called Edward. He has been living in a magical small world with an invisible wall and over population, but all that is about to change. In their small overpopulated world with invisible barricades, Edward always wondered one thing. He could see a sign outside the wall that says “(11O22H12C) RAGUS” and underneath it “ETULOS.” Edward had no idea what those words meant, was it a name? an animal? Over the years, edward had survived several encounters with his people’s arch nemesis. Every morning the Silver (Ag) Spoons will come and take our people away from us, never to be seen again. Now it’s happening again, their world begins to shake and shatter as it slowly moves into the light of the warm morning sun. Edward knew this day was coming, everyone knew it, but how soon was the question. The answer was: today. Edward struggled to climb out of the bare fangs of the silver spoons, but they were too slippery and he could not climb out. It seems like the end for him…. When suddenly the spoon came to a sudden halt. and Edward jerked forward straight over the edge and into the depths of the abyss. “Hey dude, you alright?” whispers a mysterious voice, “Wake up buddy!” “Am I dead?” Edward asked “Don’t be silly, you were just unconscious, and I’ve been watching over you.” “Whoaaa, where are you?” Edward can’t seem to see the source of this mysterious soothing voice. 32
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“Here, Hi I’m Kevin Junior, nice to meet you” replied Kevin. “Ohh there you are” Edward was amazed by his sheer size compared to Kevin. “I’m a dust particle, and you must be sugar right?” “What” “You escaped from your prison up there” Edward seems to be very confused and has no idea what Kevin is talking about. “That jar up on the shelf” “Ohh, thats a prison?” “Well it’s keeping you inside now, isn’t it?” Just as Edward gazed up, he finally solved his life mystery. “(11O22H12C) RAGUS”, read “SUGAR (C12H22O11)”, and “ETULOS” is actually “SOLUTE”. It looked like a reflection from inside the “jar”. Noticing Edward staring at the sign on his jar, Kevin mentions, “There’s a much bigger world outside that jar Eddy” “Indeed” “Here let me be your guide” “Oh sure” As Kevin and Eddy wonders through the desolated plains of wooden planks that seems to stretch for miles. Kevin looks up and points towards a weird curvy object. “Thats a tap” “A tap?” “Yup, legend says, thats the entrance to the city of atlantis, the city made up of liquid, and even the people are made up of liquid.
“Wow” “Oh shoot, hurry hide” Edward just did what kevin told him to do. Suddenly, out of the corner came a large black object with sharp claws and fangs. “Thats Max the cat, he’s a heterogeneous mixture” “Am I a mixture?” “No, you’re a compound.” “What’s the difference?” “You’re several particles, chemically bonded together, while Max is several compounds and elements physically bonded together” “Ohh, so the “C12H22O11 ”meant something?” “Thats rights, you’re made up of 12 carbon atoms, 22 hydrogen atoms, and 11 oxygen atoms” “How do you know all this?” “I’m just that smart.” “What does solute mean?” “Solute is a substance that has an ability to dissolve in a solvent.” “Dissolve?” “Combine.”
“I see.” “Your destiny awaits you Eddy, you have to fulfill your destiny by dissolving in water.” As Kevin Jr. guides Edward towards the tap, he begins to notice the moistureon the tip of it. “Just wait here, if the legends are true, the water tribe will emerge by noon.” Just as the sun began to set, there came loud thumping sounds. Sounds of footsteps are getting louder and louder. Just as the thumping came to a stop. Their world stood still for a moment. Then there came thunderous squeaking noises that silenced words coming out of Kevin’s mouth. Suddenly a huge gust of water came spilling from the mechanism and washed Kevin and Eddy away. Edward woke up feeling kind of strange. Kevin was right next to him. “What happened? Kevin?” “Oh, there you are. You have been dissolved into water, a very small amount of water.” Edward has come to realize that he has become a part of a liquid solution.
Celebrate New Year in Japanese class!!! by Pinky, Poom and Kevin (Japanese 4)
RIS Japanese Language students shared their insights into celebrating the New Year in their language courses. Read through to learn more about the celebration and their favorites.
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o celebrate the new year, our Japanese class did several activities, from kakizome, to yakunin-isshu, and to creating our own nengajo. Although each and every one of the activities is interesting and as educational, I enjoyed writing the kakizome most. The strokes and stops were most complicated but I felt a deeper understanding for Japanese culture. Because our calligraphy was written in Kanji this year, it was more difficult than last year’s. Not only was it interesting to learn to use the brush, the writing was similar to art, making it even more enjoyable. I’m confident I would enjoy these activities even more next year, in addition to gaining more knowledge about Japanese culture. - Becky (Japanese 2) My favorite activity was kakizome. Although it was very challenging to write the Kanji characters instead of simple and easy hiragana like last year in Japanese 1. I found it to be very fun and allowed it me to understand more about Japanese culture. - Chompoo (Japanese 2) Out of all three Japanese New Year activities I participated in this year, the activity I found the most enjoyable is Hyakunin-isshu. Not only do I get to play with my friends, I also get to practice my observation and Hiragana skills since the game involves reading, recognizing and matching traditional Japanese poems. - Any (Japanese 2)
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Nengajo is a Japanese term for New Year’s card. From the end of December until the beginning of January, Japanese people follow a custom in sending New Year’s Day postcards to their friends and relatives. Typically people choose to send their cards to those relatives they may not see very often. The purpose behind this message is to tell their friends and family that they are alive and well. Usually these postcards arrive on the 1st of January.
Hyakunin-isshu is a Japanese traditional card game. The cards in the game have a poem written on it, these poems were put together by Fujiwara.
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"I would travlel back to speak with Ilsung Kim and tell him please don't attack South Korea."
"I would travel to the year 2017 on my senior convocation day because I want to know how I've changed over the past 4 years in high school." Questions for
"I would travel back to speak with Marilyn Monroe and tell her that girls should be more like her and not try to look like skinny sticks"
Khamann Ramon
Junior
"The Time Machine - (H.G. Wells Victorian Time Chair) is the best time machine"
"I would travel back to when to the U13 volleyball tournament and play better so we could win first place, since we only got second place."
"I would travel to age 45 to see if I'm a millionare"
"Your eye is the lamb your body" -Jesus Christ
What future plans Neehar or goals do you and Jay have for the club? Because we are club, we often a relatively big have members the same trouble trying to be able to give all of our experience that hope to be abl they may hope for. e to We Habitat for Human expand our service trips and of course, our ity trip, so that each year more students are able and to join us on this We hope as well memorable experiemore to be able to fund nce. domestically but for also internationally more houses, not only hopefully encour , in the future, age and happiness of giving more people to be exposed to true and helping the anyth ing back. society without expecting If you could go anywhere in space where would you or time, with the club, The main purpos go and what would you do? e about the importa of our club is about raising awaren nce of family, shelter ess merely about where , and equality. It is not we want to go, but rather more about what we to fully reach out can do and help others. Our main objective is to build homes Praewa ; we want to continue to do that in places that require our assistance and support. We have gone to Lopburi after the notorious flood back in we would like to 2011 to rebuild homes and continue on this journey to places that truly need our help wherever it may be.
"I would go back to grade 8 to join the U15 soccer team."
college apps.
starting over There is something refreshing about chapters- a break new- a blank page in a series of everyone who has from reality. I would like to thank family, friends, made these past few years possibleMy parents, for friends that have become family. my heart and teaching me that sometimes, following to be different. My listening to my head did not have ng. I do not know sisters, for listening, loving, and pushi you. Friends- all of where I would be today without and a chance to you, for a high school life well written Committee, for open my eyes to the world. The MOP take-over-the-world being more than just friends- our because I found family. And lastly, my goat buddy, you know it. Keep myself with you. You're special and the dreams alive; we got this.
RY "Better Lives foTrA Everyone"
Leevongcharoen Woranon, Mimi
Matsuki Namika
Jojo Natasha, Tasha
I’d like to thank my parents for I must say mom and dad I supporting me through everything. not easy to bring a child up, love you so much, and I know It’s to miss going to school, I know especially me. Natalie, I am going in the world at times but I really I call you the most annoying sister you are kind of annoying, sometimes, don’t mean it, well maybe no matt er what. Vanessa, but at the end of the day I love you Michiel and Rafael- I don’t Sanjana, Dant, Jaeng, Alisha, Rick, senior year with the most even know where to begin completing a great group of individuals amazing people! I’m so glad to know best for the future and I know like you. I wish you guys all the you will be going into. Love you all will be successful in the fields for everything! you guys so much! Parth, thanks
INTERACT RO "I would go to year 3000 to see if any aliens had invaded the planet yet." 51
Photisaro Warandhorn, Patty
Kritsanaviparkporn Saran, Pluem
I guess surviving secondary school up with a 3.0 GPA+ and getting before 7am are my most important achievements (of course I have many I more but why should I share?). mean, think about the workloads that we have gone through, plus the lives we have to lead. Being healthy after taking those IB and AP classes requires skill. The toughest, but the best years to were in RIS, with all the memories keep, the workloads, and the stress from the combination of grades, and
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"I would go back and invent the iPhone because I would really look smart."
the Exec
ts. What is your favorite event of Why did you join the Without a doubt, Mudmee and Junior our favorite event year? We joined Interac Interact Rotary? Humanity trip. t of the year is our Not reason. As freshm Rotary for a very similar annual Habitat homes for those only is the trip about building ens, and rehabilitating for in need so that join the club; howeve we were not allowed to they can begin r we were able to create the enthusiasm to observe their own sustain and motivation able lives,it is I want to thank the Holy shown by the club's executives also about creating our own and its membe rs. that was solely Trinity for all the blessings he dedicated toward This energy memories and s community service and the new has given to me and will give good bondings with the club and becom of others urged us to join our e committed to peers. The Habitat me. I want to thank my father ever since. for Humanity trip and my brother for always Chiku and Divya every encourages us to understa nd supporting me through the community we're decision I made, whether it reaching out, connec right. them, and cooper t with was wrong or atively recreate a hopefu l future. of
Thankyou,allofmyamazing for being teachers (you know who you are!), with great super supportive, providing me ever ask knowledge and all the help I could for respecting my parents, for. Thank you, me up decisions, caring for me and cheering about whenever I started having doubts Thank you, whether I’d have a bright future. Nud K., buddies: lunch eternal and friends my high Tangkwa, and Jean! You guys made appreciate school life enjoyable; I genuinely I know you let to want your presence. I just love you all!
Nantawaropas Pichanon, Nud I'd like to thank my parents!
RIS is a microcosm of the world. Not only that I get to take the courses necessary for my intellectual of development but also have a taste as the real world. Jam packed with a many good folk as haters, RIS is no simulation of the real world like is other. To survive and thrive here my an achievement. I learned to hone so talents, garnered my comrades, and that I am ready to saddle up charge at whatever the world throws at me.
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Memories and Skills for a Liftetime By Kay Rambaud
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014 the Year of the Horse; Strength, power, reliability, leadership. That’s exactly what the 2013- 2014 yearbook will represent. For a high school of over 600 students, a comparatively small group of 6 students in the first semester and only 3 in the second semester have built a book that compares to no other. “Back to the Future” is the theme, reflecting on yesterday, working hard today for a brighter future tomorrow.
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dolor LOREM Lorem ipsum LOREM IPSUMsit amet, ctetur elit IPSUMconse re. hendrerit posue
girls BELOW: Our RIGHT AND for the Pep shake their thing fired up for us all Rally and get sports day!
ERS
CHEERLEAD
than a club"
. They have school. t each other at Bambie says; s, interests and they suppor highschool and it's a of the same hobbie come across all 4 grades After they perform The cheerleaders and to get to know each other.ed and look forward achiev great way to bond of what they havewas a coach but later they proud feel ing their a little they always At the beginn each taking to the next time. their own dance, raph choriog tion! were able to What an inspira responsibility.
"they're more of a family
an elastic, their "A cheerleader is like spring, they get flexible, they stretch and they do hair, but snapped into the air, s they can TRIM LINE TRIM LINE with too much stres love life." break..........cheer hard, - Author Sara,
a Alberta, Canad
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What value do you gain from being apart of the club and do you think it will aid you in the future? Club members are able to learn about current events and real-world issues through multiple perspectives. Through engagement in debate, not only will students be able to create longlasting friendships, they will also become more knowledgeable about world issues that will ultimately make them a ctive world citizens. From participating in conferences and debate members will also improve their public speaking skills, their ability to understand other people's points of view, and they will also be able to cooperate better with other people who may not necessarily share their views. These are just some positive outcomes of being part of MUN. What topics do you and your club member seem to prefer when debating? Club members tend to like topics from the Security Council as well as those relating to disarmament and international security as they seem to be very pertinent and easiest to relate to. Often times, these topics are also ones that are most related to current events, and thus easier to research and debate about. However, generally, MUN members are always happy to deba te any topic. Is there an event you're looking forward to? I always look forward to THIMUN Singapore every year. The quality of debate is very high and the people who attend THIMUN are from various backgrounds, making the experience very f ulfilling. This year, however, we're also looking forward to SEASAC MUN. RIS is hosting SEASAC MUN this year, and it's our first time hosting a conference at a larger, international scale. Schools from all over Southeast Asia will be attending, so that's definitely going to be a highlight.
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nervous for try-ouit Bambie (co-p says she was and ninth grade and great on stage always looked and for it anyway The girls had lt but she went of it. seemed difficu every minute loves utely now absol
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You can look forward to Back to RIS at the end of this academic year. If you would like to order a yearbook or find out how you can enroll in the yearbook course make sure you check-in with Ms. Kay - kayr@ rism.ac.th
WE'RE THE MIGHT, WE'VE GOT HT! the squad in TO FIG in READYreside nt), started out ts.
THE GIRLS Queen - CoPresident Bambie - Copresident Mild Vanessa Kimmie Irene Fah Pear Vicky Janny Bee Ploy Debbie Lily Pin Michelle Fern Emma Aim Nana Best
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The students enrolled in the yearbook course have the opportunity to collaborate and build something ‘real’ and will be published and copied over 600 times. It will sit on shelves for decades to come and only increase in value to its owner, as time passes, acting as a time capsule, accessible whenever he so she needs to remember those precious mementos of high school. The yearbook course boasts a variety of different creative skills from journalistic writing and creative writing to photography, photo manipulation and graphic design. Students work with members from the entire school to accurately represent all the activities, events, clubs, sports, home rooms...that make up our RIS community. No easy task when there is so much going on which is why this course challenges students to go past their comfort zones, meeting, photographing and interviewing all kinds of people within our school community. All skills which will be incredibly valuable 20 years from now, when you pull the Back to RIS 2013-2014 Yearbook from your shelf
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"Fully Active and Involved"
What topics do you shy away from? There usually aren't topics MUNers shy away from, but if that is the case, then it's usually those that are viewed as tedious topics.
MODEL UNITED NATIONS How do you raise money? We typically raise money through conference fees. From time to time, but very rarely, we ho ld events such as bake sales to raise awareness and raise money for certain causes related to UN-endorsed campaigns such as the Peace One Day event.
UKMT and AMC Math Competitions By Uma Shivayogimath
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very year United Kingdom’s Mathematics Trust (UKMT) offeres three levels of math competitions which are namely the Senior Math Contest (SMC) for grades 11 and 12, Intermediate Math Contest (IMC) for grades 9 and10 and Junior Math Contest for grades 7 and 8. The HS Math Club offers the SMC to all the IB HL year one and year two students as well as those students in AP Calculus AB /BC. Likewise, the IMC is offered to all the accelerated math 9 and 10 students. This academic year’s SMC 2013 had 10 gold, 19 silver and 24 bronze certificate winners. Bhon Bunnag, Zach Miller, Theeraphat Wangpattanakul and Vorada Sakulsaengprap achieved the top four scores in RIS, received a gold certificate and made a place among the top 10% in the world. The other gold certificate recipients are Sasinat Chindaplo, Titee Jaruchanapongtom, Akash Chauhan, Khyati Sipani, Nyan Aye Min and Damrong Chinapol. In this year’s Intermediate Math Contest (IMC) RIS had 28 gold, 31 silver and 35 bronze certificate recipients. United Kingdom’s Mathematics Trust invites the top 500 students to participate in the Intermedate Mathematics Olympiad and the next top 5500 of the highest scorers in Intermediate math contest to take part in the Grey and Pink Kangaroo contest. The Olympiads are a 2hr free response contest and the Kangaroo contests are 25 multiple choice questions of higher difficulty level than
IMC. Sasinat Chindapol, Jeonghyu Kim, Satyajit Patil, Khyati Sipani, Thaksin Kaensacha, Nyan Aye Min, Thitapor Kornubrabhan, Peerapol Chiaranunt, Passavic Nalamlieng, Junmin Joo and Kyung Ju Kim were invited to take part in the Pink Kangaroo, and all have received a certificate of participation, a key fob and a contest booklet. Every year Math club also offers the AMC 10/12 competitions sponsored by the Mathematical Association of America (MAA). AIME is an invitational round of AMC 10/12 competitions and a student achieving an AMC10 score of 120 or an AMC12 score of 93 qualifies to take AIME contest. Tae Min Kim received a winner’s pin by achieving the highest RIS score in AMC 12 and was invited to participate in the AIME II Invitational round. Kantham Hongdusit and Yeum Changul achieved the next two highest scores in RIS among the top three in AMC 12. Peerapol Chiaranunt and Theeraphat Wangpattanakul both received the AMC 10 winner’s pins by achieving highest score in RIS in AMC 10. Kyung Ju Kim had the next highest score among the top three scores in AMC 10. Congrats to all of our hardworking and brilliant mathematicians. AD Astra Volume 9 February 2014
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Beyond the tests and quizzes By Paige Prescott
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n biology there are a lot of concepts to learn and a lot of vocabulary is needed to communicate that understanding. Ms. Paige’s biology classes are using technology to show their knowledge of these topics. Here’s a sample of a few projects that were done: Use the QR codes to watch their work
IB Biology Higher Level, Year 2 In order to learn how the information coded in DNA is made into proteins, students made stop-motion animations of the DNA molecules, the enzymes involved as well as the products of the processes known as transcription and translation.
Biology 10 Instead of a traditional lab report, students were asked to communicate their understanding in a different way. In this example, students chose to make a Prezi of their data and to show how the tests for macromolecules relates to their diets.
Do not have a QR Reader? Find all links on our website at www.rism.ac.th/ris/risweb/science.php 38
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High School Sports Day
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Brain Fitness Summer Course What is BrainFit? BrainFit Studio is here to provide what all parents want for their children: a bright and wonderful future! We’ve taken over 35 years of cognitive research to create a unique kind of learning environment that will help your child’s brain develop faster. From clearer handwriting to better decision making, we know how to make their Brain Fit, because Fit Brains Learn Better!
BrainFit courses are fun and adaptive exercises that build stronger brain foundations for children aged 4-18. When the brain is fit, learning becomes enjoyable.
LET’S GET BRAINFIT! Visit us at adbkk.com or call us for a Free Trial on 02-656-9938-9 2nd floor, ploenchit center, sukhumvit soi 2 (
ploenchit bts exit 4)
DRAMA, DRAMA, DRAMA! By Shorna Shand
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n Wednesday, December 4th, all High School Drama and Theater Technology students joined together for last semesters’ Drama Day. After weeks of line learning, gathering costumes and props the students took to the stage to showcase some of their hard work. Students presented five different plays that explored a range of performance styles and themes, including adaptations of classic’s like Romeo & Juliet - Sped Up and A Rhyming Christmas Carol, to contemporary pieces such as The Mobile Phone Show, The Lift and Zombie Love. Laughter was shared among the audience of Elementary, Middle and High School RIS students, staff and family.
Shorna would like to thank all of the staff that helped in the process and who came to support our wonderful students for the first HS Drama performances of this academic year, in particular Ms. Kim’s singers and Ms. Pavla’s photography students. The singers performed a seasonal song ‘It Feels Like Christmas’ alongside the play The Rhyming Christmas Carol. Meanwhile, Ms. Pavla’s photography class provided intermission productions of their semester course work. Further thanks are due to Alisha Pawa and Ya Jitsuyama for volunteering their time and being fantastic performers, and finally a special thank you to Ms. Sara for all the planning and preparation of this event.
The First Semester Drama Day was a time of celebrating Most importantly, congratulations to the following the Arts, recognizing talented actors, student technicians, talented students who shone brighter than ever, singers, instrumentalists and visual artists at RIS. Ms. showcasing their brilliant work on Drama Day. 42
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IB Theater Arts Students Performed The Lift Angelica Ann (Aica) Azul Suddhabha (Praewa) Palakawong Na Ayuthaya Alisha Pawa
Drama student in Romeo & Juliet & Zombie Love
Drama students in Hye Min (Agnes) Chang Rhyming Christmas Carol Yung-Hsin (Becky) Deng & The Mobile Phone Show Hannah Faith (Hannah) Diopenes
Theatre Technicians King Klongphayabal Krittanat (Ford) Nalamlieng Tanyatorn (Tanya) Pitaksakorn Anantathep (Pao) Sanitsom Poombordin (Pete) Thaitongsuk Supapat (Soup) Wattanadilokkul
Sadanun (Marina) Balenciaga Tanita (Cheer) Krisralam Ploychaya (Ploy) Kulkeatdech, Tanyatorn (Tanya) Pitaksakorn Jetarin (Jeffy) Quenault Tonnatee (T) Roongroj Aloka Sirianukul Ya Jitsuyama Michelle Bjorkner Boon Chaikrongkit Nes Chaloemlapsombut Melanie Jarnson Ron Jema
Ribika (Rika) Hamuro Veera (Sukhvir) Hora Shan-Shan Huang Sadit Indramangala Ashwin Karamchandani Namika Matsuki Hoang (Nam Thai) NamThai Koushik Neogi Sirimanus (Minnie) Phopiboonsuk Drimik Roy Chowdhury Manaka Saito Peeranat (ToTo) Tokaeo Pacharadanai (Pat) Waengsothorn AD Astra Volume 9 February 2014
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By Catherine Bennett
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n Wednesday, December 4th, the Elementary, Middle and High School choral students sang in three festive performances at RIS. The first two shows took place in the Performing Arts Centre as part of the High School Arts Day. The third show was performed in St. Thomas church for ES and MS students, and was a great success. Preparations for the event began months earlier and HS students attended a fun November choir camp in Pattaya to prepare for larger and more challenging vocal numbers, including a special arrangement of Lady Gaga’s “Born this Way,” written by Ms. Cat. Truly, these shows were something to celebrate. With songs such as “Seasons of Love,” “I Believe I Can Fly,” “Just The Way You Are” and “Amazing Grace,” each performance was moving and merry. Additionally, the shows came to life despite canceled rehearsals and missing choral students due to the unsettled political situation. Despite these difficulties our singers were able to come together for the series of lovely performances. Each semester, students continue to embrace more challenging music and grow as musicians. With approximately 110 students in the finale numbers, it was a joy to see so many talented young singers joining together to celebrate music!
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By Catherine Bennett
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s our fall 2013 semester came to a close at Ruamrudee, singers in Vivace reflected on their many achievements. Newly named (previously known as “honors choir”), the ensemble has truly lived up to its’ definition. Vivace is a choir of 15 dedicated and talented HS singers. Students rehearse Tuesdays and Thursdays after school and perform many times each school year on and off campus. In the fall semester, Vivace performed in 10 different venues: 5 on campus and 5 off campus. From the Bangkok International Choir Festival to a Michael Jackson Tribute show at the Thai Cultural Center to an EARCOS conference, the singers have experienced a lot and grown together as a musical family. Singing over a dozen different varied pieces of challenging repertoire, the choir now looks forward to many new events in the spring, including the upcoming Musical Theater Workshop in March and the pop music concert in May. Students in this ensemble have similar feelings about the value of this choir and singing with one another:
“Joining Vivace (Honors choir) is a decision I’ll never regret. We’ve sung and performed many different types of songs, such as pop and a capella. This is a new experience for me – we’re a warm family, and that makes us closer to each other – Mimi E (Freshman) and music.” “Honors Choir demands dedication in the art of singing, as well as the commitment to challenge oneself. Joining Vivace taught me the importance of responsibility in a choral group, and allowed me to share my love for music with a group of people who truly understand it’s value. I love being around such gifted people and learning new music, and additionally being able to perform our songs at prestigious events.” – Melanie J (Sophomore) “Vivace is a warm and exciting community of dedicated singers who are looking to share their similar passion of singing with the RIS community and beyond. Our performances reflect our love and appreciation for music and –Ing C (Junior) each other.” “Vivace is a prestigious choir where excellence is achieved and expected. Members are required to collaborate and productively contribute, as the choir deals with advanced repertoire from a variety of genres. Not only does it promote brilliance, it provides an environment for individuals to grow, develop friendships, and learn the importance of –Earny R (Senior) responsibility.”
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An Interview with Ms. Nimfa Moreto Elementary School Theater Arts Teacher
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s. Nimfa has been a part of the RIS community for 24 years proudly teaching Theater Arts to our youngest students in the Elementary section. Prior to RIS’s semester break she had been the creative organizer behind the ES Christmas production as well as our student performance at the Gala Extraordinaire. As her work typically receives rave reviews - like those listed below - we wanted to share an Ad Astra interview where we worked to learn more about how she designs and prepares for each performance.
“For those of us who don’t (can’t do) what we just witnessed - if I didn’t believe in miracles before, I sure believe in them now. Your work and passion and tireless effort and time needed to coordinate this show have gotten better each year. I don’t know how you will top this one!! I appreciate Ms. Nimfa and Ms. Kim opening our student’s eyes to the beauty of the world and their celebration of the arts that in many ways is a key component to the development of every person’s heart and soul. Bless you for sharing your heart and soul with all of us.” - Dr. Melanie “The Christmas show was outstanding (as usual). My thanks to all involved, especially Ms. Kim and Ms. Nimfa for making it happen.” - Dr. Peter
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remember a time when I didn’t dance. When I hear music I move, I dance and do creative things; it’s natural! It’s always been a part of my life ever since I was two. I started choreographing dances for older kids when I was in third grade. It was the beginning! I Preparing our young students to perform in front of love making up dances and had this innermost desire a large audience can be a daunting task, but there to share what I created. I love to see my imagination are five key aspects that I equip myself to help them alive and shared with everybody. I knew pretty well that I would be a teacher when I grew up. Thankfully, succeed in their performances. I’ve set to meet that goal as a “Dance Teacher”. It 1. Tremendous organization and planning was God’s will that I was to be a creative and artistic 2. Clear and effective communication with all person who loves to share her passion with everyone performers and family especially with children. 3. Unlimited personal flexibility 4. Strong collaboration with my colleagues Ad Astra: Each Fall you, along with Ms. Kim, 5. Enormous patience :) help organize the Cultural Show as a part of Holding to these five aspects, I am amazed at how International Week and then the Christmas Show in our young artists perform on stage. Every time, they December, what other great things should we look perform amazingly, like the pros! forward to this school year? Ad Astra: After the shows have ended and the applause rings through the venue we have to wonder how you helped prepare nearly 350 students for some performances. How do you prepare?
Ad Astra: Each year the student performances are You’re right that each year we host a Cultural Show different. Where do you find your inspiration for in October and the Christmas Show in December. the productions? Our next shows include the ES Talent show in April and the ES Extended Day Program Dance Recital in Uhm…where I get my inspiration? From the gift of May. Please join us for both. dance. I have always had a passion for dance. I can’t AD Astra Volume 9 February 2014
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Unseen Heroes By Kay Rambaud, HS Art Teacher uamrudee is a place swimming with the talent of students, teachers and working professionals who are recognized with put-ups, certificates and awards, recognition and ‘well dones’ in assemblies. But how often do we say thank you to those people working behind the scenes who maintain a healthy, safe, clean and beautiful working environment?
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main entrance way of our Administration Building.
This Painting 2 Project explores this issue, choosing, not the shining students or knowledgeable instructors, but from a team of janitors, security, canteen staff and gardeners, to say thank you. Thank you for the hard work you do – we recognize you! The paintings first unveiled to the RIS community during a morning assembly are now proudly on display in the
The large scale paintings are made using acrylic paint and capture light and shadow through use of tones within the grey scale. Student artists included Seniors Ayumi Yasumura, Lattaphol “Ben” Harnthamtong, and Vicky Rattanavipapong, as well as class of 2015 student Julio Kaltenbach, and Angela Hochreutener and member of the class of 2016 The five HS students collaborated as a team making aesthetic and conceptual decisions to complete the series. They were inspired by Street Artist and Photographer, JR, who pasted giant, billboard sized photographs of people’s faces into public spaces. See www.jr-art. net/ for more information on the artist. AD Astra Volume 9 February 2014
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RIS Athletics By Gerry Steiert, Athletics Director very year is exciting, rewarding and successful in the wide world of Ruamrudee sports, both domestically (BISAC) and internationally (SEASAC). The Phoenix Athletics Department proudly retains its purpose of Offering student participants, at all levels, the best learning environment possible through exceptional facilities, coaching & planning. We are pleased by our continuously high rate of coaches returning season after season to help our student athletes grow and develop. As an Athletic Department we are proud to bring in individuals who have a desire to assist students in the learning and perfecting of specific sport skills, even while our BISAC and SEASAC conferences experience some change. Games in each league count toward a ranking or “seeding” at the seasonal BISAC tournament.In the Two big changes to both our local BISAC league and SEASAC league divisional play is based on tournament our international SEASAC league can be summed up results of the 13 international school members. The Top with the word “Division”. The BISAC board decided 7 are in Division I with the remainder in Division II. to divide the 10 member schools into divisions based Both league changes have led to very positive results. on geographical requirements, thus allowing specific schools in each division to be closer for “league” play. Season 1 results: Congratulations go out specifically to NORTH – HIS, ISB, NIST, SHB, TIS; our Volleyball Program. The Varsity Boys under coach EAST – ASB, BPS, ICS, RIS, TCIS; Komson took Silver at the Phoenix Invitational, won the
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ISB Panther Invitational, are BISAC Champions and finished with SEASAC Silver. Varsity Girls under Coach Noi Penpoo earned SEASAC Silver, Phoenix Invitational Silver as well as the BISAC Bronze. Varsity Boys Football with Coach Sean McMahon earned SEASAC Division 2 Bronze; Varsity Girls Football with coach Praphoj Unpudsa won BISAC Bronze; U15 Girls Basketball coached by Onsa Saleenuan competed for BISAC Silver; Our RIS Girls Golf team are proud SEASAC Champions; and “Ernie� Thawin Suksathaporn brought home the title of BISAC Varsity Singles Tennis Champion. Season 2 results: The Varsity Girls Touch Rugby Team under the leadership of coach Sean McMahon earned SEASAC Division 2 Silver; The U13 and U15 Boys Badminton coached by Praphoj Unpudsa and Jedsada Pongkamalas are BISAC Champions while our U15 Girls with Coach Chuan Lee finished the season out earning the BISAC Bronze. Season 3 Invitational Tournament Results: U17 Softball coached by Tim Pettine (Boys) and Jennifer Treinen (Girls) both earned Bronze medals at our Phoenix Invitational tournament. Varsity Girls under coach April Slagle won Silver medals at both NIST and BPS tournaments. Varsity Boys and coach Shaun Edmondson also took home Silver medals from NIST and are the Champions of the BPS tournament. Varsity Badminton with a mix of U17 players, coached by Joei Janjira Khaosa-ard and Chuan Lee, managed to win both the boys and girls categories in the Falcon NIST Friendly. Season 3 Varsity BISAC and SEASAC tournaments occur near the end of March while U11-U17 are the last week of April. Thank you to all of our dedicated student athletes, coaches, and families who are always ensuring we have the best Phoenix athletics program possible. Stay tuned for more Phoenix Athletic news and be sure to check our Schedules posted on the RIS website for opportunities to come out and cheer on our Phoenix student athletes. AD Astra Volume 9 February 2014
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By Torie Leinbach
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es we can! These talented sophomores and juniors will embark on Ruamrudee’s first ever expedition to Africa, organized by Ms. Torie Leinbach and Mr. Kevin Leinbach. What better way to spend the summer than by venturing to distant Kenya?
In a few hours, the students were able to raise a total of 6,055 baht. Proceeds go directly to Camps International Foundation, an organization that funds humanitarian projects in third world countries.
Even more fundraisers have been planned by The purpose of the trip is not solely for enjoyment, these students. After witnessing their enthusiastic as three weeks of humanitarian work at rural Kenyan contributions, there is little doubt that these active communities will surely leave them exhausted! students are perfectly able to go to Kenya. Yes we can! While preparing, the students have not been idle. Already, they have poured forth their time, creativity, and baking proficiency into organizing a bake sale fundraiser for BISAC Girls Touch Rugby athletes at the Ruamrudee campus.!
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By Neil Dwyer
PHOTO of the DAY, 14/03/2014 - Congratulations to 7th Grader, Chanamon “Mint” Pongphaew (pictured on the right), who along with her classmate Voraya “WowWow” Vorapanyasakul, presented at the Thailand Young Journalist of the Year competiti...on today. Mint was recognized as one of the 3 most outstanding presenters for her writing on the Lost Boys of Sudan. Mint’s and WowWow’s journalistic pieces were selected from all national contestants for today’s finals in Pattaya. We are extremely proud of their accomplishments and proudly recognize Mint for her award winning presentation.
PHOTO of the DAY, 13/03/2014 - For the past two weeks RIS has proudly welcomed a handful of middle school exchange students from Germany to join our community. Here our RIS students spend some relaxed time with their German counterparts ...- hanging out in our Middle School Courtyard. This June a group of RIS students will take 2-3 weeks to go visit their new friends in Germany, completing the exchange experience. Combined, the international exchange program continues to provide our students with experiences and relationships that help them grow their world view and prepare for future life experiences.
Both of their articles and more about the competition - which included just 20 finalists - and can even be be found in this edition of Ad Astra magazine. Congrats Mint and WowWow PHOTO of the DAY, 05/03/2014 - Nothing like getting a littler dirty for the good cause of native Mangrove reforestation. Last month 10th Grade students, enrolled in our Thai classes, embarked on a service trip organized by our Thai Department. Not only was the trip a perfect reflection of RIS’s focus on academic and character excellence but it also provided the students an opportunity to give back to our environment and our country. Great work 10th graders
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Fun at the babies home! By Pavla Poch ack in february, the Visual Arts Department of RIS visited the Phayathai Babies Home. The visit was based on a project from the first semester, where all students in the Art 1 class created their own interpretation of the popular “ugly doll�. The dolls were given to the children by the students along with other donations from staff and parents.
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As we walked through the door, everyone was welcomed by little ones with hands outreached to join them for some afternoon fun. Students and teachers enjoyed playing games or just cuddling with the toddlers who loved all the attention they received. It was a warm and wonderful memory enjoyed by all and a time of reflection as we all thought about how lucky we are to have permanent families in our lives.
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