Valor Dictus Volume 41 Issue 9

EDITORIALS

FEATURES

FOCUS

ENTERTAINMENT

SPORTS

IB students should be able to skip class to study for exams.

— See page 3

Read about the set-up process of this year’s Art Show.

— See page 5

Go behind the scenes of the drama department’s newest production.

— See pages 8-9

Read a preview of the movie “The Avengers.”

— See page 11

Read an update on the boys’ soccer team’s progress.

— See page 15

Valor Dictus James W. Robinson Secondary School 5035 Sideburn road, Fairfax, VA 22032

Monday, May 7, 2012

Volume 41 Issue 9

Bravely speaking to the Robinson community valor-dictus.com

Suspicious portfolios spawn investigation Students cheating on IB Math IA prompt teachers to examine policies regarding Internet information

BY IAN CRIMAN AND THOMAS FRIESTAD Staff Writer and Editor-In-Chief

T

he Internet can be a valuable tool for IB Math SL I students in need of a lesson review. However, for the dozens of students caught copying an incorrect answer into their Internal Assessment, it may have been more of a temptation.

Associate principal Michael Mukai said the math department began investigating students’ IA portfolios when they noticed an oddity: on a single answer, multiple students made the same error using an unorthodox formula.

Following this, the IB Math teachers held a meeting with the accused students to discuss their suspicion.

“We’re at a strange time in the age of information, because there’s a difference in how each generation finds and uses data,” Mukai said.

“The sharing of information is online is new, but this isn’t the first time it’s been brought up.

For example, we know students use Facebook groups to share answers for some classes, and

Photo Illustration by Hailey Metzger

others can be seen copying down answers in the locker bays every day.”

An anonymous junior said he felt his fellow IB Math students resorted to copying down an online answer because they were unprepared for difficulty of the IA.“Teachers were adamant that we had to complete the portfolio without any help from them or other students, so they felt they had nowhere else to go but online,” the junior said. “It’s my theory that students felt there was a choice between failing a major part of their IB Math grade and cheating.”

Although students found guilty of copying did

not receive the standard punishment for cheating, which Mukai described as a 0 on the assignment and a note on the violator’s permanent record, IB Math teacher Judith Cosgriff said they would still receive a different consequence. Guilty students received a 64 on their portfolio and were barred from progressing to IB Math SL II. Mukai said determining innocence and guilt in scenarios involving alleged Internet plagiarism are difficult to handle because the school administration has not yet established a policy on how to handle the use of online information.

State Legislature passes new online graduation requirements New law draws support from some, others worry for teachers and students

BY MICHAELA WRIGHT Staff Writer

T

he Virginia state governor passed a law Thursday, April 12 requiring all high school students to take one online course in order to receive a high school diploma. The changes go into effect for all incoming freshmen during the 2012-2013 school year, and all subsequent incoming grades.

State Governor Bob McDonnell pushed the law as a part of his emphasis on virtual education since he took office in 2010. McDonnell said in a statement that integrating online technology into education and making students more comfortable with gaining information online is important to prepare students for the twenty-first century job market.

Similar requirements were first passed in Idaho, and similar requirements have been passed since in several other states, including Alabama, Florida

and Michigan under great controversy. Opponents who took geometry online last summer. Still claim the online classes will decrease teacher inter- other students disagree, “The classes go at your action with students and worry taxpayer dollars speed, I learned more in my online classes than are shifted away from teacher salaries to outside I did in some of my live classes,” said Junior Nick private companies proWestern who has takviding the online coursen four online classes, es. Teacher unions esincluding an AP class. pecially have spoken out Just a few days about the threat the onearlier, the Virginia line classes pose to their Certain content cannot be delivered Department of Edujob security. Still, pro- over the internet, you can give cation approved six ponents argue it could new online education quizzes and drill material but it is save money in schools, providers, all private and will give students hard to develop high level topics. companies. Patricia crucial online skills for Wright, Virginia Suboth college and the perintendant of Public current job market.

Instruction, in a stateGovernment Will “Certain content and Psychology ment to the Richmond Crawford cannot be delivered over Times-Dispatch said, teacher the internet, you can “By contracting with give quizzes and drill virtual schools or onmaterial but it is hard line providers, Virto develop high level ginia’s school divisions topics” said government and psychology teacher can broaden the array of courses they offer, reach Will Crawford. “I have a hard enough time keeping out to more nontraditional students and provide some of the kids in my class focused, for those who more educational options for families.” aren’t motivated it’s going to be even hard without The new law also contained a clause rea teacher present.” quiring standard diploma candidates to earn “It’s not an easy style of learning, it’s much a credential in career and technical educaharder to focus and learn certain topics without a tion, including credentials such as a state liteacher face to face,” said Anna Otto, a sophomore cense or an industry certification.

“

”

“It’s a gray area, because there’s no yardstick for gauging students’ integrity in using the Internet to solve a problem, and it’s our job to ensure each student comprehends the material,” Mukai said. “This event is a great opportunity for the staff to meet and agree on a project philosophy.

As problems become more complicated, at what point should you solve them yourself?”

A second anonymous junior accused of cheating on the IA said he believes his classmates knew they were not supposed to copy down the online answer, but chose to do so regardless because of their stress level.

“There is so much stress as an IB student, and I think this IA pushed a lot of students over the top,” the junior said. “They might have felt what they did was justified because of their heavy workload.”

Principal Dan Meier said, despite the pressure to succeed in IB classes, he believes receiving a ‘C’ honestly is preferable to an undeserved ‘A’.

“Our approach at Robinson is that we’re a learning instituion, and that we understand everyone makes mistakes, so we’re using this as a teaching moment,” Meier said.

IB coordinator Wendy Vu said she believes teachers can address the issue of plagiarism at each school year’s beginning to avoid it in the future.

“As teachers, we need to do a better job of articulating what plagiarism is in each subject,” Vu said. “There is going to come an end point in your education when Google searches aren’t good enough.”

Despite the complications this occurrence created, IB Math teacher Judith Cosgriff said it is not a sensational issue, and may have a positive impact on the program.

Cosgriff said, “We will continue to work with students until this issue is resolved.”

Changes the State Legislature approved: 1. Incoming freshman for the 2012-2013 school year will be required to take one online class.

2. Standard diploma

candidates will be required to earn a credential in career and technical education.

3. Six new private

online education providers will provide online access to classes.

2

Valor Dictus May 7, 2012

World Oceans Day brings awareness

News In Brief Film Students create their own films

Hailey Metzger

Students show off their knowledge of the oceans through projects

Hailey Metzger

BY BAILEY HAASE Staff Writer

As a new addition to the Oceanography class this year, a display of projects students in the class completed was held Tuesday, April 24 in Davala Hall. The event displayed various Oceanography-related subjects students chose to do a project on. This project is new to the class and is a way to display students knowledge of Oceanography, as well as their creative skills.

“The show was really fun to do,” senior Jessica Smith said. “I actually think it was really helpful and educational, because when I was doing the research, I was learning all about how Louisiana is disappearing, which was my topic for the show.”

Oceanography students were required to pick a topic relating to Oceanography, and create an interesting, eye-catching project to put on display to exhibit their knowledge of their chosen topic.

“My project was called ‘Losing Louisiana’, and it was about how Louisiana is slowing disappear-

Hailey Metzger Oceanography students showcase their projects about different conflicts going on with the oceans to fellow students to bring awareness about these issues, which range from troubles with the penguins to trouble with coral reefs. The awareness day was held in Davala Hall throught the school day.

ing because of erosion,” Smith said. “I feel like my experience with World Oceans Day was very positive; it gave me a chance to interact with the school on a personal level about a topic that I was passionate about.”

Oceanography teacher Kristen Marker said, in previous years, there have been no major projects given to students in Oceanography, as there are in

other science classes.

“Science is all about doing, and I wanted to give my oceanography students something to do,” Marker said. “The World Oceans Day display was a tremendous success; many students and faculty came up to me afterwards and told me how great they thought it was, so I’m really glad with the way it turned out.”

Hailey Metzger

Hailey Metzger 2 On Friday, April 27, the SGA held a military assembly to honor military members and their families for their services in the armed forces.

The organization also held a Support the Troops carnival after school on the same day until 6 p.m.

1. Mark Little talks to students and faculty about how he had lost his legs while serving in a tour in Iraq. He also discussed how he survived and the support he received from loved ones when he returned home.

2. Little jumps around on his prosthetic legs after telling students about how his daily life is similar to that of a normal person, despite his handicap.

3. Eric Norland, twelfth grade subschool principal, is dunked during the Support the Troops carnival after school April 27.

4. Little talks with students in Davala Hall during school before the Support the Troops assembly.

The SGA raised $2,100 during the Support the Troops carnival. All of the proceeds are going towards Operation Homefront, which provides financial aid to wounded warriors and families of service members, as well as other assistances.

SGA supports the troops

1 1

3

Hailey Metzger

4

Lindsay Webb

Lights, camera, action!

For their end of year project, film studies students are taking on the roles of directors, producers, actors and screenwriters as they go from watching the movies to making them.

“The students are putting about two months of class time and several weekends of work into their films,” film said studies teacher Jody McCabe. “It is probably about twenty hours of work total.”

Each of McCabe’s classes, as well as film studies teacher Lindsay Burgess’s classes are creating a film for a festival, which will be held June 4 from 6 to 9 p.m. All seven films will be shown, and there will be an Oscars-style award show, renamed the Oscar Meier’s, where awards will be given out in categories such as best director, best cinematography and best picture. There will be different categories for the IB students and the regular students.

McCabe said she thinks the project is a positive experience for the students because it shows them all of the work that must have gone into the movies they watched all year.

“An appreciation for the art of filmmaking only comes from actually making a film,” McCabe said. “You can’t really understand how hard it is and the work that goes into it just from watching it.”

For the festival, there will be several genres of films. The two classes of IB film studies students are required to make horror films as part of what McCabe calls the Scare Your Pants Off contest, which will be shown at the festival.

Juniors Mitch Hartigan and Bernice Go are both directors of horror films for the contest and said, so far, directing has taken a lot of hard work but has been a great experience.

“When it comes to directing, you have to make a storyboard and you have to stay within the screenwriters’ directions,” Go said. “As a director, you have to make all of the executive decisions on the camera directions and the actors’ actions.”

Hartigan, Go and McCabe said they all have high expectations for the finished films and look forward to the screenings.

“I’m hoping everyone gets scared at the end,” Hartigan said of his film.

McCabe said she is excited not only for the audience reactions, but for her students’.

McCabe said, “I’m just excited about seeing the students’ reactions to their films on the big screen.”

— SHELBY GEE Military students to receive honor cords The Fairfax County School Board voted March 8 to allow for students attending a military school to receive a special cord at graduation.

According to a Washington Post article published March 8, there was a clause in the decision stating students could decide whether or not they want to receive the cord.

While many schools have had their own traditions for commencement ceremonies, principal Dan Meier said receiving recognition for this has not been a staple of the ceremonies before this year.

“In the past, each school has been permitted to conduct their commencement ceremonies within their traditions,” Meier said. “Last year, parents asked if schools were honoring students who were enlisting in the military.”

Meier said the idea came up in the eleventh hour when preparations for the ceremonies were already set, so there was not time to have the cords last year.

“We did not really have much time to think about it, because the ceremonies had already been planned,” Meier said.

Junior Chad Susanke said he appreciates the cord given, because he believes it is a meaningful reward for showing patriotism and the sacrifices he is about to make.

“It symbolizes a commitment that cannot be broken,” Susanke said. “I had to pledge in front of an airforce officer that I would do everything in my power to protect this country and our freedom, so I see this as a symbolic gesture to keep that commitment.”

Susanke said most of his family is in the military, so he views it almost as a rite of passage.

“My family believes strongly in giving back to our country, and this is the best way that I can do it,” Susanke said.

Meier said the distribution of cords is something the school should have done earlier.

Meier said, “We’re named after a Medal Of Honor recipient, so we should honor students who are making the commitment to enlist in the Military.”

— IAN CRIMAN

Editorials Valor Dictus May 7, 2012 Volume 41 Issue 9 Bravely speaking to the Robinson Community 3

Sukriti Adhikari - Editorials Editor

In this section:

Hannah Bunting - Editorials Editor

On page 4 read what one writer wishes she knew before applying to colleges.

On page 4 read why a required online class caters to all learners.

On page 4 read why Beach Week is time for celebration, not worry.

Valor Dictus

ABOUT US Valor Dictus is a student-run newspaper that serves the Robinson community. All bylined articles, editorials, columns and letters are the expression of the writer and not necessarily that of the staff or the adviser. Unsigned editorials represent the majority opinion of the staff.

ADVERTISEMENT POLICY Email letters to Valor_dictus@yahoo.com.

Acceptance of an ad is not an endorsement of the product or services of the advertisers.

Information concerning policies and advertising can be obtained by calling (703) 426-2285 or emailing Valor_dictus@yahoo.com

Cartoon by Jack Connors

Taking time to study

Students should be allowed peaceful time out of school to study for the rigorous IB exams

staff editorial May brings more than warm weather to IB students: multiple exams become the subject of much dread and discussion.

Some of this discussion stems from disgruntled teachers of regular classes upset that their students are missing their class to prepare for IB exams.

However, it is smart for IB students to prioritize this studying over class attendance, and teachers ought to support them in making this choice.

Although the idea of missing class may be considered inherently bad, it is a necessary evil for IB students because their IB exam scores will have a much larger impact on their future than their presence in a regular class.

The concept of IB students missing school to study is not an obscure one, either. Annan-

dale High School has recently released a policy allowing IB Diploma Candidates to take two days off for study time.

Students who toil through two years of the IB program are able to include their hardearned diploma on applications for graduate school or real world jobs.

As utterly thrilling as an additional period of learning logarithms may be, it does not compare the importance of an IB exam.

Although keeping track of absentees may create additional work for teachers, they ought to understand how much effort IB students have put in to reach this point.

They should accept that IB students are missing their class for a worthy cause, rather than mere senioritis.

Of course, IB students must communicate with their teachers frequently, so the teacher is aware of their necessity to take an occasional day off to study.

How do you feel about skipping school for academic purposes?

If a student comes up to a teacher at random, claiming to be missing their class to study for an exam, the teacher might assume the student is actually missing class to study the menu at McDonald’s instead.

A strong bond between each teacher and student can let the former know when the latter’s absence should be excused.

Because the alternative may involve the student receiving a failing grade for multiple unexcused absences, creating this relationship should be even more of a priority.

Each IB exam is much like a journey to Isengard: time for preparation is necessary, and the process can make a student feel nearly as small as a Hobbit.

By ensuring each teacher is more of a help than a hindrance to their priorities, students can push through their exams and enjoy exploring the incomparable opportunities May has to offer. photos and interviews by Stephanie Chae

“It’s reasonable. You have to study, so you should be able to instead of being distracted by other classes.”

—Cori Frigault, 12

“I think it’s necessary, because being in a class isn’t always beneficial; you know your own academic needs better than anyone.”

—Brian Kropaczek, 12

“In class, we might not focus on areas that would help me, but if I skipped to study, I would be able to address my own needs.”

—Emilia Otero, 11

“I don’t think it’s a good idea because people tend to get distracted at home and won’t actually study. They will also miss information.”

—Abe Lee, 11

“Skipping school for academic purposes is great because you’re being studious and you get to skip class.”

—Reem Rana, 11

“It sounds great as long as I’m missing classes I don’t like.”

—AJ Turner, 10

“If I could skip school to study and catch up on sleep, I would. I’d be well-rested and prepared for the test.”

—Meaghan Manley,10

“I would be okay with it because it’s still academic and you would get a break from school.”

—Riley Mahan, 9

“If you skip school, you might miss something that will be useful later or that you’ll have to make up, which only adds to the pressure.“ —Robin Gruendl, 9

what the

kids in the hall are saying

EDITORIAL POLICY Valor Dictus welcomes student opinion as an open forum. All opinion pieces must be e-mailed to valor_dictus@yahoo.com. Letters or columns must be signed. That is, they must contain a name, and a title All content received by the paper is subject to editing.

Letters must be around 100-200 words.

Guest columns must be 500 words or less.

Valor Dictus reserves the right to withold the publication of letters and guest submissions.

2011-2012 Staff: Editor-In-Chief: Thomas Friestad Production Editor: Shelby Gee Business Managers: Kate Monick Jason Focarino Copy Editor: Faith Schweikert Kid-in-the-Hall Editor: Stefanie Chae Photography Editor: Hailey Metzger Editorials Editors: Sukriti Adhikari Hannah Bunting Focus Editors: Betsy Berenback-Gold Jenny Shin Features Editors: Christine Yumping Anagha Srikanth

Entertainment Editors: Sharon Corish Danielle Nelson News Editors: Nikki Robinson Tim White Sports Editors: Lindsay Webb Chase Bailey Online Editor: Megan Lin Staff Writers: Hiba Ahmad Roz Allen Simran Badwal Jack Connors Ian Criman Bailey Haase Owen Joyce MK Koszycki Mary McGrath Reem Nadeem Nick Runkel Joe White Michaela Wright Adviser: Laura Brockman

CORRECTIONS: From April 26 issue:

- Courtney Hafner’s name was misspelled, page 4 - Teachers had up to three days to vote on Spirit Days, page 4 - Spirit Day voting was to take place in every third period class, unless the class representative did not carry it out, page 4 - Leo Herrera’s name was misspelled, page 5 - Cameron Plunkett was accepted into the University of Southern California, page 5 - Peter Kownacki is the SGA sponsor, page 8 - Dillon Lopynski’s name was misspelled, page 9 - Lauren Stapleton’s name was misspelled, page 16

To submit a letter to the editor, e-mail a signed, 100-200 word letter to valor_dictus@yahoo. com or drop it off in room 503.

Check us out online at www.valor-dictus.com

Editorials 4 Take online class to pass Valor Dictus May 7, 2012

How would you feel if you had to take an online class to graduate?

Required online classes have potential, but require careful planning from schools

MICHAELA WRIGHT The Virginia state governor Bob McDonald passed a law on Thursday, April 12 which will require freshmen during the 2013-2014 school year to take one online course to receive a high school diploma. Similar requirement have been passed in several other states, including Alabama, Florida and Michigan. McDonald claims that integrating online technology into education and making students more comfortable with gaining information online is important to prepare students for the “twenty-first century job market.”

The reasoning behind the law is admirable.

Online learning will help to prepare kids for an increasingly online world and a technology centered job market in the future. Furthermore, it offers low-income students who may not have

online access on a regular basis the ability to develop the skills they will need, helping to decrease economic disadvantages.

However, the state will have to be careful how it conducts the requirement. The course should not replace a teacher as the main object educating students in the core subjects; reading, writing and math skills are too crucial to be sacrificed to an experimental new kind of learning.

A physical presence with one on one time is crucial to answering student questions effectively and building student knowledge in core subjects.

The new courses should be elective subjects, perhaps which focus on computer skills.

No student learns the same, just like each student is unique. In the state of Virginia, there are very diverse methods of going through high school, from “honors,” Advanced Placement (AP), and International Baccalaureate programs (IB) to students with disabilities taking specialized classes. The law is going to cause significant problems if it is not flexible enough to match the diversity of the students. Mandating the class as a graduation requirement fails to consider the online classes will not be helpful or beneficial to all students. Students with learning disabilities, attention disorders or those who just need closer observation will likely not be gaining a lot from

taking an online course not carefully tailored to their circumstances. IB students also stand to be negatively affected. With all the IB requirements to receive an IB diploma, candidates have packed schedules with limited room for electives if at all. Certainly these hard working students do not need additional requirements hindering their ability to succeed and graduate as they want.

As most political issues do, there is also an economic aspect to the issue. In Utah, where a similar law was first implemented, teacher salaries were decreased and the funding went to pay for online courses. Offering more online classes will save Virginia public schools money, but at the cost of cutting salaries and jobs. The economic climate of today means sacrifices must be made. However, adding online classes does not seem to be the most efficient and beneficial way of saving money because of the scheduling, student behavior problems and questionable success it will result in.

In conclusion, the state government and Fairfax County schools must be careful how they integrate the new requirement and must plan meticulously. They must take into account the various circumstances students live in, and do their best to prevent rendering incoming freshmen unfortunate guinea pigs.

“I would be really mad because I don’t have time to do any homework outside of school, let alone take an online class.”

—John Griffin,11

“I would feel more pressured only because I would have to learn the material on my own. “ —Tatiana Gonzales, 10 “I guess it would be pretty annoying. I think you should learn from a teacher instead of a computer so that they can help you learn the subject.”

— Chris Stevens, 9 “I wouldn’t mind as long as it benefits me academically.”

— Hannah Nathanson, 9 what the

kids in the hall

are saying

5 Things I Wish I Knew About Getting Into College

1. Getting accepted is the easy part . Not to sound negative, but after acceptance, there are still quite a few things to sort out: tuition, FAFSA, scholarships from the university and outside organizations and travel.

Scholarship applications tend to be lengthy and in-depth, and may take a while to get back to you. While getting accepted is arguably the most exciting part of senior year, do not check out as soon as an acceptance letter arrives in the mailbox. You still have an exciting but long process ahead of you.

2. File the FAFSA form as soon as you apply. Nothing is worse than knowing you are in but not knowing if you can afford the school. FAFSA, or the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, can tell you what loans you are eligible for and help colleges in awarding institutional scholarships. Even though most schools ask that you fill out the forms by a certain date, it is advantageous to submit them as soon as you can. That way, you can have all the information regarding the cost of the school earlier and make your final decision a lot sooner.

3. Schedule visits on regular school days instead of special event days the colleges set up. Watch out for anything specifically dedicated to prospective or accepted students. These tours are often held on weekends and attract hundreds if not thousands of kids. You are usually herded into huge information sessions and tours, and you spend more time with high school students visiting than with the college students giving the tour. It is worth it to take a day off of school to visit a campus on a weekday to see college students in action and maybe even sit in on a class or meet a professor.

4. Do not be afraid to apply to schools that seem out of reach. On paper, you may not have the grades or extracurricular activities a certain school wants, but do not let it stop you from trying. While it is important to be realistic about the likelihood of getting in, remember colleges just need to give the average SAT or GPA of admitted students as a frame of reference. Reach schools are a great way to challenge yourself, and you may be surprised at the outcome of your effort.

5. Narrow down your list of possibilities by tuition first. Sit down with parents, guardians or whoever is helping pay for college and tell them what your top schools charge. Make sure to factor in travel costs, room and board, books and miscellaneous costs as well. Eliminating schools that are going to be financially impossible can help you focus in on what schools you really want to spend time applying for. This strategy will also eliminate having to give up a spot at a school because of a pricey tuition when you are making the final decision of where to attend.

Should parents allow their kids to attend seniors’ Beach Week?

“Yes, because it’s a week at the beach with your friends, away from your parents.”

— Jinny Yang, 12

Senior Beach Week 2012 parents should allow their kids to attend it

“Yes, it’s right after the exams, so you can relax and hang out with friends.”

— Javier Perez, 12 “No, because there aren’t really any parents and it’s unsafe.

Everyone knows that there’s alcohol there and I think it’s a waste of time. “ —Claire Grinstead, 12 “Yeah, it’s nice because you get to get away from school and chill with friends.”

—Jesus Herrera,12

what the

Seniors

are saying

JACK CONNORS For many graduating seniors, Beach Week has been as much a cornerstone of year-end celebrations as prom, graduation, and the parties that accompany both.

However, recent worries about petty crime and substance abuse have put the damper on school-end festivities, forcing close parental supervision into a former celebration of newfound maturity.

“My parents were fine with [me going to Beach Week], mostly because they know who I am,” 2011 graduate Meghan Smith said. Smith

decided to forgo the most popular destination among graduating seniors, Myrtle Beach, and instead went to Duck, South Carolina to avoid the trouble and rowdiness Myrtle is popularly opined to be host to, due to the excessive drinking and partying that occurs.

“I didn’t want to participate in illicit activities, I just wanted a week at the beach with my friends,” Smith said.

Smith said she was able to reach a comfortable median with her parents, staying at a house far away from her home, while also being safe and responsible in her parents’ eyes.

Parents’ fears of petty crime occurrences are not entirely unfounded. According to a report published by City-Data.com, crime in Myrtle Beach is higher than most other counties in South Carolina, particularly during the summer tourist season, possibly due to the influx of out-of-towners.

In 2010, the Myrtle Beach Police department reported an average 684 offenses per 1,000 people, well above the national average of 300 offenses per 1,000 people. The vast majority of the crimes committed in Myrtle are

non-violent, with the highest being burglaries and theft.

However, the incidences of rape and murder are still above the state average, but have dropped significantly in recent years, due to ongoing efforts by the Myrtle Beach Police Department.

However, the number of violent crimes committed pale in comparison to nearby cities, such as D.C. and Baltimore, both with murder, rape, and assault rates well above Myrtle’s.

Despite the possibilities of crime and mayhem, Beach Week remains an essential chance for teens to prove their maturity, as well as their ability to look after themselves.

Parents who are unable to trust their children for a single week away from home are not prepared to allow them to live on their own at college for much longer periods.

While the differences between a college campus and a resort town are notable, the idea remains the same, namely that young adults must be given opportunities to prove their maturity.

Features

Valor Dictus May 7, 2012 Volume 41 Issue 9 Bravely speaking to the Robinson Community 5

Anagha Srikanth - Features Editor

In this section:

Christine Yumping - Features Editor

On page 5 read about which classes and clubs fit certain personalities.

On page 6 read reviews on various coffee shops for studying.

On page 6 read about how to do the best on the SAT test.

Students display talents with art

BY SIMRAN BADWAL & ROZ ALLEN

He said the Art Show took a lot of work to set up, but there were a lot of parents to help out with the setup, so the process was manageable.

Because of this support, he said he believes the An array of artists flooded the Field House Art Show was a big success.

April 26, when the school’s annual Art Show The students who went to the Art Show captivated students with a whirlwind of color- thought it was well planned out and also set up 1.

2. ful projects. in an organized manner.

“I was excited because it was an opportunity “I think that the Art Show was 3. to let other people know what I’ve been work- really good and there were a lot ing on and also for me to get my own booth,” of interesting pieces of art work,” sophomore Emma Angove sophomore said.

Iman RehmAlthough the effort reatullah said. quired to set up each booth The Art was apparent to viewers, Show was a few realize how extensive beneficial opI was excited because it was the set-up process was for portunity for the art department prior to an opportunity to let other students to this single, day-long event. get the taste people know what I’ve been In January, the art teachof what real working on ers gave the art students a artists do by pamphlet, and by Feb. 8, rerepresenting Emma quired them to have a maxi- Sophomore themselves Angove mum of twenty pictures to and their submit to the Art Show. On school. They Feb. 29, the students put were able their artwork in the Gold to sell their cafeteria and art teachers works of art, and some students judged the work to see which projects would had made a lot of money by doing be featured. Around March, the art teachers re- this. viewed the portfolios of the students who subFreshman Nick Seymour said, mit their work to be displayed at the Show.

“The Art Show was really orgaPhotos by Hailey Metzger “This was the smoothest set up that I have nized. Everyone got to see what ever experienced since I have been working you do and it was a nice display.” 1. Junior Jon Marksteiner demonstrates his photo gallery in his red, white and blue booth to sophomore Ariana Missar.

2. Junior Emily Jaumillot explains her photography display to a teacher. 3. Senior art student Kelly Guin draws a tattoo here,” ceramics teacher Joseph Dailey said.

Staff Writers

“

”

using sharpie on senior Jimmy Miao in her booth studio.

Which club is for you:

Take this quiz to see where you should try to be involved in the school community next fall What best describes your personality at school?

Focusing by yourself

Working with a small group of friends

Talking to multiple groups of people

In the summer, you will most likely be at...

Bonfires on the beach

Sports camp with the team

SAT prep classes

What would you do for community service?

Working long hours at local coffee shop

Being a counselor at a children’s summer camp

Helping out at local animal shelter

Where do you see yourself in 15 years?

Photographer for TIMES magazine

Doctor

Member of the Peace Corps

If you answered mostly (shape) , you should try...

Getting involved: Creativity: Academics: - Speech and Debate, Theatre Sports, Art Honor Society, Yearbook

- It’s Academic, Science Olympiad, Honor Societies

- SGA, Key Club, Partner’s Club, Young Life

Information compiled by Hiba Ahmad Infographic by Christine Yumping Photos courtesy of Flickr Creative Commons

Throw a punch, thrown out of school Administrators share their duties when handling fights at school

to get the attention of other administrators.

Corbin said the crowd of spectators is one of the main obstacles the administrators face when trying to break up a fight.

Turner said most administrators will say, ‘Get out of the way, administrator.’ “It’s very unlikely the fighters will keep fighting after administration arrives,” he said.

After the crowd has split and the fighters are

BY STEFANIE CHAE & MARY MCGRATH restrained, they are put into different conference Kid-In-The-Hall Editor and Staff Writer rooms to discuss the situation separately and keep the two combatants apart.

When a fight breaks out in the hallways, a A few months ago, a fight broke out in the student’s first instinct is either to watch or use junior locker bay. Turner said he witnessed the social media to inform their peers about what is fight and to stop the fight, he had to put the two happening. On the other hand, an kids into a headlock. administrator’s first thought is to After they were rebreak up the fight. strained, they were put Most students are not ininto separate rooms to formed of what happens directly resolve the situation.

I don’t like fights. Fighting after a fight is broken up.

“I think fights are “There are different levels isn’t a way to solve a problem. pretty interesting,” of consequences and methods sophomore Sahar Lutfi administrators use to resolve Period. It’s a safety issue and said. “When someone a fight,” security guard Sandra we want students to know we gets into a fight, they Corbin said. get the whole school take it seriously.

Subschool principal Scot talking. The fights Turner said, when an adminisare some of the most Scot Subschool 11 trator witnesses a fight, the first memorable moments Turner thing they do is try to get the at- principal of high school.” tention of both sides.

A fight can lead up Security guard James Harrison to either three to five said administrators avoid using days of suspension, physical force when breaking up a fight, instead recommendation for expulsion, a police charge resorting to verbally splitting up the two parties. from the school as a misdemeanor, offence for Some security guards, such as Corbin and disrupting the educational environment or Harrison, said the first thing they do when a charges from the opponent’s parents for assault. fight breaks out is call for assistance from other Corbin said usually only five percent of stuadministrators before separating the two com- dents who get into fights press charges on one batants. another.

However, Turner said the first thing he thinks “I don’t like fights,” Turner said. “Fighting of is student safety. Breaking up a fight is first on isn’t a way to solve a problem. Period. It’s a safety his list; he also said he is willing break a fight up issue and we want students to know we take it alone, if necessary. Then, his second thought is seriously.”

“

”

6

Features

Valor Dictus May 7, 2012 Get it again!

Ram Rating: SweetLeaf

Description: Starting with the basics, their regular coffee blend has the perfect consistency, however, the coffee here is not freshly brewed so the coffee lacks that quality. One downside is there are not a lot of varieties of coffee blends beyond the regular espresso, cappuccino and latte. With the wide variety of flavorful options, a sandwich here is perfect for lunch. It is wonderful environment with a friendly ambience. There is a bar facing the windows with a view of the day. The place seems to be environmentally friendly with its wooden benches and is ecologically decorated.

As the end of the school year approaches, students look for new places to study for finals. We visited numerous small local coffee shops around the area which serve as alternatives to major national brand names. We assessed the environment, coffee and menu at each shop in a short profile. Next to the location of the shop is the approximate driving time to the shop from the school.

Clifton Cafe

Location: Town of Clifton (17 minutes) Rating: Though we were very excited to find a crepery coffee shop in Northern Virginia, Clifton Cafe fell short of our expectations. The cafe gives a stuffy feel with its small tables and chairs. The crepery has ten options for both sweet and savory crepes in the price range of almost any customer. One of the cheapest was the $5.99 Jenna’s Joy, a plain tasting crepe filled with fruit and topped with powdered sugar and whipped cream. The coffee is better than the coffee at Sweetleaf as it is freshly brewed and there is more of a variety of blends to choose from. Overall, however, if one has to go out of their way, it is not worth the pricey coffee unless they are desperately craving some crepes.

Trash it

Our Pick:

Location: Town of Vienna (17 minutes) Rating:

Coffee Shops to Study in

Average

Bernie’s Delicatessen Location: Fairfax (7 minutes) Rating:

Bernie’s Delicatessen is the perfect combination of bakery, sandwich shop and convenient store. Whether one orders beforehand or on the spot, the meal is sure to be good and fresh. The coffee, though a tad too strong, still accompanies the meal nicely. The sandwiches, though delicious, are trumped by the desserts; both the carrot cake and Oreo cheesecake are winners. It is not worth the visit for the coffee but with the nice, quiet atmosphere and friendly staff, the experience is sure to be enjoyable.

SweetLeaf, Bernie’s Delicatessen and Clifton Café all will not disappoint, but one reigns supreme: Sweetleaf. It has all the comfort and charm of a small town café; one would never know it is really in the heart of Vienna, VA from the inside.

In addition to the friendly staff and great atmosphere, the food is delicious. The coffee is well-priced and still has an appeasing taste.

All around, the prices are reasonable and has the potential to become a regular hangout for teens at our school. There are many places to sit down, possibly to spread out work and get something done while enjoying your meal. The bar facing the window offers customers a chance to witness the weather outside while still protected from the elements.

Clifton Café with its hotel restaurant-like feel and overpriced coffee which just is not worth the time and effort it takes to get out to Clifton, cannot outshine Sweetleaf. Visitors should go for the crepes and the calm atmosphere but not unless they are already in the area. Like Bernie’s, Clifton Café has many “regulars” who visit almost daily so the Café has a following which keeps it running.

Bernies, comparatively, is better than Clifton Café but not close to Sweetleaf. Though it has a relaxing atmosphere to it, it is not all that comfortable. Again, like Clifton Café, Bernie’s is a tad on the overpriced side but after tasting one of the sandwichs or desserts, the cost will soon be forgotten about.

Graphic by Anagha Srikanth Photos and information compiled by Megan Lin and Faith Schweikert

‘My Little Pony‘ develops a fan following among an older male crowd, calling themselves ‘bronies’ tially wrote off the series, he gave it a chance and was pleasantly surprised. “My life was forever changed,” Hunt said. “I even used a pony profile picture on Facebook for a month to celebrate my enjoyment.”

BY THOMAS FRIESTAD Lam said he believes bronies rarely discuss Editor-In-Chief their fandom except with fellow fans due to the taunting they may receive for their interest While a large number of male students in what others may dismiss as a ‘girly’ show. pride themselves on their ability to nuke op- However, he said he could not care less about ponents in “Call of Duty,” a more vibrant mi- any jeers, and has gone so far as to choose “My nority prefers to study the “magic of friend- Little Pony” for his IB Extended Essay topic. ship.”

“People often expect ‘My Little Pony’ is a ‘Bronies,’ a combination of the words ‘bro’ show for girls, and that you should only watch and ‘pony’, is a term for shows adjusted for your diehard fans of the telegender,” Lam said. “They vision series, “My Little just can’t accept a change Pony: Friendship is Magin taste, which bronies are ic.” Although outsiders in favor of.” may not understand the The bronies do not reobsession over the show, The popularity of the show strict their following of bronies are adamant in among teenage boys can “Friendship is Magic” to their support. the show itself. In actualcome from its idea of recap“The show’s characters ity, many continue their are well-developed, and turing their youth. involvement in the fanthere are themes in each dom on Equestria Daily, episode that give them an extensive fansite feaFilm Studies Jody depth,” junior Nelson Lam turing a plethora of ponyMcCabe Teacher said. “The stories also related media. have twists that viewers Junior Tommy Jun don’t expect; these always said he started watching lure them back for more.”

“Friendship is Magic” afFilm studies teacher Jody McCabe said an- ter Internet-based pony material piqued his other draw of the series may be its exploration interest. of more mature themes from the viewpoint of “A lot of the creativity of the series can cartoon ponies. be seen online,” Jun said. “Fans put together “The popularity of the show among teen- compositions with music from the show, age boys can come from its idea of recaptur- as well as pony music videos and fanfiction, ing their youth,” McCabe said. “It’s the same which can expand on the backstories of unreason why students revisit Disney movies, or derdeveloped characters.” adults purchase toys for their children that With the show’s third season in the pipethey used to play with themselves.” line, bronies are unlikely to ride off into the Junior Wesley Hunt said, although he ini- sunset anytime soon.

“

”

Conquer the SATs

Directions: With SAT season in full swing, students are mentally and physically preparing themselves for their test dates. With the late night cramming comes stress, the sudden craving for Girl Scout cookies and an obnoxious amount of caffeinated drinks for those dreaded allnighters. Here are a few tips students can follow to conquer the SATs:

Write answer in boxes

C H I

L

L O U T

Grid in results

HIBA AHMAD 1) Breathe. This may be the only test students will take in their educational career that actually matters, but they are not going to get through it by seeing how long they can hold their breath while solving a quadratic equation.

2) Unfortunately, students do not get enough time to spend with their beloved friend, sleep. However, the night before the big test should be one of the rare occasions students should see the back of their eyelids for the appropriate eight hours.

3) Students should study with a group of friends rather than shutting themselves in their bedroom. Play a game of charades with vocab words. It will take the edge off the looming test, and everyone will be studying without even noticing it.

4) If a student needs to munch on something while aimlessly flipping through vocab flashcards, they can try snacking on 100 calorie packs of their favorite snacks rather than a box of Thin Mints those pesky Girl Scouts sold to their parents. Remember, swimsuit season follows close behind SAT testing.

5) Anxiety and stress revolve around the dreadful SAT test date. Students should stand in front of their mirrors and remind themselves of how awesome they are. Try making plans with friends for after the test so students have something to look forward to.

Features

7

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Valor Dictus May 7, 2012

‘HOWTOSUCCEED’

Focus

ONSTAGE

BY STEFANIE CHAE Kids-In-The-Hall Editor

Bright lights, big musical numbers and great acting define “How To Succeed” Photo courtesy of robinsondrama.org

For the spring drama production, our school reproduced the popular Broadway musical “How to Succeed in Business without Really Trying” with a cast of 55 members and a company of 100 people.

The storyline follows J. Pierrepont Finch on his journey from a window washer to top of the corporate ladder, relying on the advice given from the book “How to Succeed in Business without Really Trying.” Alongside his journey to success, the storyline also follows the love story between Secretary Rosemary and Finch.

“Our J. Pierrepont Finch, Josh Israel, is a perfect match for this part and I’ll put him toe to toe with anyone who has played the part, including Daniel Radcliffe,” director Douglas Rome said.

Both Rome and senior Kyle Lynch, who plays JB Biggley, said opening night did not meet their expectations, but the second night made up for it.

Rome said there was nothing wrong with the performance of opening night, but the audience’s reaction was the only part that did not satisfy him.

“We really had a warm audience and that brings up the actors as well,” Rome said. “The audience definitely makes the best show, a best show.”

Even though the audience did not react the way the crew was hoping for the first night, both Lynch and Rome said the following nights brought better performances.

Due to the first act lasting an hour and forty five minutes and the second act taking an hour and ten minutes, the play had many orchestra, band and choreography production numbers.

Freshman Tami White attended the April 28 showing of the play and said, “It was kind of long, but it was good, and I liked the whole comedy and romance behind it.”

The cast and crew rehearsed for four months after school and on their own time. The spring music trip to Orlando was the only interference with rehearsals since the ensemble was performing in the play.

“I was pretty satisfied with [opening night] and I think most people were satisfied with [the play],” Lynch said. “The show has come a long way since we’ve started and it’s been a long ride.”

CAST & CREW Q&As CHRIS MOALLI, 10 STUDENT DIRECTOR

What do you do as a student director?

During rehearsal, I am either backstage helping with tech or helping Mr. Rome direct.

How were you picked for this position?

I volunteered for it.

What is your favorite part of being assistant director?

When the show comes together and seeing the process from when the show first started to when it ends. I like the progression.

What were your hopes?

That we sell out and everyone will like it. I hope that everyone finds it funny.

What is the worst part of your job?

When people don’t listen to me, like when actors or techies just are disrespectful and don’t want to do anything.

What was the hardest thing you had to do?

Control the actors when they are in a big group, because there are 56 of them. Also, keeping Mr. Rome calm throughout the process.

So have you been in other school productions?

Yes, I helped with set construction and design in “Midsummer Jersey”.

Do you like being behind scenes or being an actor?

Behind the scenes, because I prefer doing a bunch of different things and help different people then just being onstage.

KAYSE MCGOUGH, 10 COSTUME CREW CHIEF

What did you do?

I was costume crew chief. I basically designed, put together and made all of the costumes people see on the stage in the show.

What were some difficulties you had?

There’s one scene where all of the girls are supposed to come out in 15 of the exact same dress.

We had some trouble, because we weren’t going to buy all of the dresses so the director wanted me to make them with the help of some parent volunteers. They were awful; they were the most disgusting thing I’ve ever seen. They were like potato sacks and they didn’t fit anyone, they just did not look good at all. We ended up just scrapping all of them.

What was a good moment?

I thinks it’s always a good moment when the director or someone says, “Yeah, that costume is gonna work,” or you see it on stage and it fits together the way you want it to.

What did you think of it?

It was a lot of fun, it was a lot of work, don’t misunderstand me. You’re there all the time and you see people all the time and you learn to love them all the time.

Any hopes for the show?

I hope everything goes well and that it looks okay. I hope that people feel like it looks like the 60s.

HILLARY HOLLOWAY, 10 SET CREW CHIEF /ENSEMBLE

Photo courtesy of Flickr Creative Commons

Andie Matten 9What did you choose to do sound?

Sound is really fun because if you click on a little button, it fills up the stage and that makes you feel important. And working with mics and everything makes you feel important becasuse it is such a basic important part of the play.

Have there been any diffuculties?

Yes, sometimes the hard drive gets messed up so the sound won’t play or it repeats itself. Then you have to quickly problem-solve to fix it.

Is there any problems diong book voice?

Not really, but they are long sound effects, so they are usually the ones that end up repeating themselves. So, we have to run them before we play them to make sure it won’t repeat. But, most of the time, it is really cool becasue you get to record someone using a high tech microphone.

Would you do suond again for another show?

Yes, I’m planning to do sound for the middle school musical.

Page created by Betsy Berenback-Gold and Jenny Shin

Sound Check1. Give out mics and test all the equipment to make sure it is working. Check all the batteries and make sure the volume is right for each person.

2.Open up programs that play all the sound effects.

3. Test every sound effect to make sure they are all working and adjust the volumes for the computer.

4. The curtains rise, beginning the show.

5. Clean up and collect all the mics and make sure all the equipment is fine for next time.

Photo courtesy of Flickr Creative Commons

What do you do to help the show?

I’m set deco-crew chief and I’m also in the ensemble so I play all the secretary roles. But, as set deco-crew chief we decorate the set. So once the set is built, we add the desks and chairs to make it look like it is an actual place, not just a set.

What are some difficulties about being a set deco-crew chief?

With set deco, getting the stuff was hard. Like we had to get eight matching chairs that looked nice and we had to get a big desk and all this office supplies.

What was the best moment?

The best moment was when we finally finished Mr. Bigley’s desk. And when we put it up there Mr. Rome said, “I couldn’t tell I thought that you had put the real desk up there.” Because that was a flat that we had to build to make it look just like his actual desk and that was great knowing that all of our hard work actually paid off.

What was the worst moment?

The worst moment was when we were trying to get all of the furniture from the office to the school because we had to get three pickup trucks and it was hectic and it was raining and there was water on the furniture. It was crazy but it got done.

In comparison to the last two, how does it measure up?

I really liked “Midsummer Jersey” because it was fun. This show is a lot more organized than the “Wizard of Oz” was. I feel like this show is my baby because, since I’ve actually had a tech role as a crew chief, I’ve actually been able to work on the set and so everything I’ve done I get to see how it looks so not only am I just dancing and singing, I’m also building stuff.

Valor Dictus May 7, 2012

KYLE LYNCH, 12 ACTOR

How did this play compare to others?

I think we put on better plays but I think this is definitely one of the strongest ones we’ve done. I think this is one of my favorite ones we’ve done alongside “Fiddler on the Roof” and “Rumors.”

What is your least favorite part?

In one scene, I sing a song in my office clothes and then 30 seconds later I come on stage in golf clothes and I have to do a quick change and that’s a pain because I have to change my pants and my shirt and my hat and my shoes Were you satisfied about opening night?

I was pretty satisfied with it and I think most people were satisfied with it, and the show has come a long way since we’ve started and it’s been a long ride.

How was Mr. Rome as a director?

He’s a very effective director and he has a very clear vision of what he wants and he knows how to get it He did made the version of the play not anything too crazy or too boring, but it was solid in its traditional form Did you get along with the cast?

I got along pretty well with the cast, I’ve made some new friends just around the dressing rooms. We actually have a prank war going on between two of the dressing rooms right now, so we like to have fun with each other at times.

ANNA BARR, 10 What do you do for the show?

I’m the stage manager. I stepped up from assistant manager and it has been very fun. During the beginning of rehearsals you just run them. When people don’t know their lines you call them out to them and you move around the set before there is a run crew and you have to know a little bit about all the tech. During the actual show and tech day, I have to call the cues for changes in lights, sounds, run crew to go, [etc.], that’s all me. It is a lot of responsibility, but you just have to learn to balance it.

Have you had any difficulties this year?

It’s always a learning curve with figuring how to do it. And then there are always issues in timing. It is also hardest for me to miss rehearsals because I run it, not to be egotistical.

So when I have appointments I feel like I’m leaving my newborn.

What is your favorite aspect about being stage manager?

I really like knowing about everything. I’m very interested in all the different aspects of theater and I find it all very interesting. Also being in this leadership position is very interesting.

Will you stage manage again?

Absolutely, I really liked doing it this year and will probably be it again next year.

Last thoughts?

I would not be anywhere in stage managing without the people I work with because they are such excellent workers and people. I wouldn’t be any good without my support system.

CARYS MEYER, 11 How do you feel about playing her?

It’s a lot of fun. There’s a lot of singing and dancing, which is fun. And her emotions of sort of up and down so it’s cool because I get to play a lot of different emotions, cause she switches emotions a lot.

What is your favorite part about acting?

Probably because you get to be someone who you aren’t in everyday life, so you get to experience new situations you wouldn’t normally experience.

How was opening night?

It was really fun.We didn’t get the audience we wanted until Saturday night, when the audience was a lot better. So I would say Saturday night was probably the more fun but opening night went really well, good show.

What is the hardest part of acting?

Just having to think about all the different aspects, the song, the music and the notes and the lyrics and the entrances and the props. There’s just lots of things to think about. There’s a lot of people watching you and judging you.

What was your favorite part?

Just finally doing it for an audience was just exicitng because we’ve been rehearsing it for a long time so having an audience was a lot of fun to see how they reacted.

MARY TURGEON, 10 PROPS CREW CHIEF/ENSEMBLE

9

What is your role?

I am the props co-crew chief along with Jamie Green and I’m in the ensemble.

What are some difficulties you have with your job?

I like to put challenges on myself as a props person, so one of the things we did this year since it’s a time period piece, we had to have a television camera, but it’s really hard to find a television camera from the 1960s nowadays. So what we had to do is to recreate one from various stuff we had backstage and we had to do detailing with paint and whatnot, and it lights up and it moves and does all kinds of stuff. We also had to make an elevator dial that would move as the floors.

Best moment?

The best moments are when we get everything done and we get to see it on stage. Especially if it moves or does something you don’t expect. That’s my favorite part.

Compare your past experiences to this show.

Well, last year was my first show as props crew chief, so this year I felt like I had a lot more understanding and knowledge to back myself up with. I also feel like it is more difficult because I knew what I had to do for the basics so it’s like we all want to go one step further and make it the best it could be, and I’m a perfectionist so I wanted to one up myself from last year was different, plus it’s a time period show.

What were your hopes for the show?

For this show, I want it to go off without any problems because we’ve worked really hard. There’s a lot of expectations for it because it has been on Broadway and so many people have seen it. Also, there’s a couple other schools doing it right now. I also want to have fun with it and not be stressed out about it.

Anything to add?

There’s a lot of misconceptions that to get into the show, you have to be a part of drama or the arts department, but we have so many people that this is their first show, so come out and audition and be a part of tech.

10

Valor Dictus May 7, 2012

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Entertainment Valor Dictus May 7, 2012 Volume 41 Issue 9 Bravely speaking to the Robinson Community 11

Danielle Nelson - Entertainment Editor

Sharon Corish - Entertainment Editor

‘Bully’ steals emotion

No

4%

Good, but ineffective Photo courtesy of movieinsider.com The Bully Project is a campaign to bring awareness about and hopefully end bullying in the United States and the world. This movie was intended to be a step in accomplishing this mission.

Viewers are then taken into Oklahoma, where a 16-year-old girl takes verbal abuse daily because she is attracted to members of the same sex. The audience is then flown to Mississippi, where a young girl felt so threatened by bullying, she felt the necessity to bring a gun to school. And finally, viewers are shown to Oklahoma once more.

Here, a thirteen year old boy committed suicide because his bullying problem was so extreme.

Hirsch’s technique in showing the audience these stories is almost perfect. The camera focuses upon the faces of each interviewee to capture each of their emotions. The interviewees speak in such a soft, sentimental way, it is almost impossible to not have a sense of empathy for these people.

Hirsch also does a tremendous job in bringing to life not only the children’s struggles, but the parents’ struggles as well. We see parents try and fight for their kids in school, in the courtroom and at town meetings.

Bullying: the act of intimidating a weaker person

—MK KOSZYCKI

87%

9%

News Editor

• Respect the opening acts. They work just as hard as the headliners and have a great deal of courage to get up in front of large groups of people who do not even know who they are. Arriving early and sticking it out through the first band or two can also result in getting really great seats. And who knows, maybe the opening act will blow everyone away. Just because they are not headlining does not mean they are bad.

• At general admission shows, do not mosey on in to the venue five minutes before the headliners go on and expect to make it way up in the front. Hardcore fans will arrive early and stick it out through the openers, even if they are not into it. The rules of elementary school apply here: no one likes a line cutter. If standing five feet from the frontman of the band is so important, arrive before the first act to stake out the perfect view.

• Do not get in people’s personal space. It is hard to do when everyone is packed like sardines into a small, dimly lit room, but it is possible. Do not breathe down the neck of other concertgoers or headbang so hard, long hair hits the people nearby.

Gigs are also not the time to show off flashy dance moves. There is a greater chance audience members will be annoyed with those flailing everywhere than they will be impressed. It is equally as bad to stand completely still and cross-armed throughout the whole gig. Even if a friend dragged the grumpy viewer along to a show and they are not even sure who is performing, or it turns out they are just not that into it, they should try to look like they are having fun. Being aware of the surroundings is key.

By the numbers...

Bully Movie Survey

Yes

BY TIM WHITE

concert courtesy

On page 12 read a review of the new PBS show ‘Dowton Abbey’.

On page 11 read a review and survey results for ‘Bully’.

Do you think this movie is a good idea? Why or why not?

‘Bully’ provokes thought through documenting the stories of five victims

There is a certain epidemic circulating throughout this country, far from the typical problem. This one is larger and more uncontrollable, as kids faced with this problem have to come to terms with it every day. This is, of course, the “bullying epidemic.”

“Bully,” a documentary directed by Sundance and Emmy award winner Lee Hirsch, focuses on the current problems bullying incites. The story follows five families in their quest to overcome their children’s bullying problems. The movie does an adequate and thorough job of putting a face on the problem of bullying.

The film opens with a homemade video of a little boy staring into the camera. The little boy smiles and giggles as he explores his home. The camera then switches to a father talking about his child, Tyler. He describes how Tyler used to play and laugh with his family, all while a tear is rolling up in his eye. The father describes how the bullying became so bad, Tyler decided to take action.

The father then solemnly says his son committed suicide at the age of seventeen.

After drawing in the film audience with this horrific, heartbreaking story, Hirsch then takes viewers on a tour of the country and the bullying problems children face today. We meet a young 12-year-old boy living in Iowa, made fun of because the way he looks. The boy, Alex, is victimized almost daily on the school bus. Not only is he abused verbally, but items are thrown at him, he is sat on and he is constantly punched and hit.

In this section:

However, Hirsch does not perform a perfect job in bringing bullying to life. Despite his following of five children and families across the country, “Bully” only focuses on families living in the South and Midwest. Bullying is a nationwide problem and not just found in certain regions across the country.

“Bully” also tends to focus on just the problems of bullying, and not the actions people can take to stop it. All citizens have heard the terrors that bullying causes, but viewers have not heard much about what the possible solutions may be.

“Bully” adds to the terrors we hear, but contributes zero to the possible solutions.

“Bully” is not a movie for the faint of heart.

There are many scenes depicting the extremely harsh reality kids face today. It may not be part of a solution for bullying, but these stories are worth hearing.

MPAA Rating:

Run-Time:

PG-13 for intense thematic material, disturbing content and some strong language, all involving kids.

98 minutes

Would you go to see this movie?

Yes

74%

23% Maybe

No

10%

3%

Not in theaters

167 students polled by Journalism 2-4 staff, information compiled and infographic designed

by Sharon Corish

‘Avengers’ brings expectations

This highly anticipated film hit the big screen last Friday.

BY SHARON CORISH AND DANIELLE NELSON Entertainment Editors The film ‘The Avengers’, directed by Joss Whedon, showcases some of Marvel’s most prominent movie characters, such as Black Widow (Scarlett Johansson), Iron Man (Robert Downey Jr.), the Incredible Hulk (Mark Ruffalo) and Thor (Chris Hemsworth).

When the world is threatened by the orphaned Asgardian Loki (Tom Hiddleston), S.H.I.E.L.D. director Nick Fury (Samuel L. Jackson) gathers various Marvel superheroes together to fight back against Loki and his army.

S.H.I.E.L.D., or Strategic Hazard Intervention Espionage Logistics Directorate, is an international intelligence agency with stateof-the-art technology, courtesy of Tony Stark, a.k.a. Iron Man. Fury’s group of crime-fighting superheroes gathers in S.H.I.E.L.D headquarters for the purpose of defeating Loki’s evil army, which is trying to take over.

This film features action-packed scenes with some favorite heroes which will keep the audience on their seat, along with comic book drama which will intrigue any Marvel aficionado.

This movie has received plenty of hype, from numerous television commercials to theater advertisements. It is needless to say this movie has a lot to live up to. The idea of so many different Marvel characters with different backgrounds all in one movie is an exciting concept for Marvel comic lovers.

This is the first major Marvel movie to come out since Disney’s buying of the Marvel company; this film will help to prove if people’s predictions of whether the new Disney-fied Marvel will be accurate, for better or worse.

MPAA Rating:

Run-Time:

PG-13 for intense sequences of sci-fi violence, action throughout and a mild drug reference.

142 minutes

Photos courtesy of allmoviephoto.com and imdb.

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Entertainment

Valor Dictus May 7, 2012

‘Abbey’ strikes chord with viewers ‘Downton Abbey’ brings cinematic style to the small screen

BY SHELBY GEE Production Editor

“Downton Abbey” is, in short, an engaging and complex tale which pulls viewers in to every storyline and character.

Unlike many modern programs, each episode seems well thought out, like it must have taken months to write, film and edit.

In some ways, it seems more like fourteen little movies than a television series.

The BBC show tells the story of a wealthy English family in the early twentieth century.

Each character, from the eldest daughter to the chauffeur, is full of personality and strong opinions, and not one of the main characters is flat. Each one develops throughout the series.

The downside to such strong characters is viewers will either love them or hate them; there really is no in between. The two most despicable characters on the show would have to be Thomas, a footman in the great estate of Downton Abbey, and the maid, O’Brien. These two are always stirring up trouble in the household, especially for the newcomer Bates. It can be really grating, but even they are shown to have their soft spots.

A key aspect of the plot is the time period, which is truly one of the most fascinating aspects of the tale. In the first episode, the entire lives of the Crawley family are shaken up by the death of their cousin in the infamous sink-

ing of the Titanic. This leads to one of the main storylines of the show: the introduction of the new heir of Downton Abbey, a middle class cousin named Matthew, who initially has no interest in the wealth or prestige of the estate.

The first series of the show features seven episodes, mainly based around the integration of Matthew and his mother, Isobel, into the tightly knit group of Downton: Lord and Lady Grantham, their three daughters, Lord Grantham’s judgmental mother and the ten main staff members of the estate. Most episodes also have plots relating to the eldest daughter, Mary. Her parents wish to marry her off to a suitable gentleman.

While these storylines are important to the show, they do get a little tedious by episode four. However, the show really picks up in its second series when World War I begins in Europe, forever changing the lives of the characters and leading to a lot more emotion than was ever revealed in the first series. It is in the second series the romantic relationships of the characters are developed and sometimes destroyed due to the war, within the staff as well as the family.

In its first fourteen episodes, “Downton Abbey” has managed to captivate many on both sides of the pond, and with good reason. It is a cleverly written show, with great scenery, a juicy plot and a strong group of characters.

It is very similar to films such as “Pride and Prejudice” or “Atonement,” but it strikes more of a chord with some viewers, because of the dynamic characters and depth due to the War and other major events in the characters’ lives.

It is not just another “boring old-time British production” as some might speculate. There is scandal and romance as well as some action and tragedy, just like most modern shows, but with a more unique backdrop and more thought put into the writing of each episode.

In review

Walking with purpose — Sir Richard Carlisle and Mary and Matthew Crawley walk around the estates of their house, accompanied by some of their many friends.

Staying in step — ­ Thomas and Lady Crawley do the Waltz in their large house.

Grabbing an arm­— Sir Richard Carlisle pleas with Mary Crawley in a serious manner.

All lined up­— The servents await recieving their orders before beginning their day at Downton Abbey.

Photos courtesy of itv.com

Hear Me Out In case you missed it, here is a round up of April’s best new releases

1. Spiritualized– Sweet Heart Sweet Light 2. Alabama Shakes– Boys and Girls 3. Jack White– Blunderbuss

Across 1. The name of the production company that makes Downton Abbey.

3. Not mootropics, but ____tropics, the new single by Lower Dens.

5. The name of the bad-to-the-bone Marvel characters.

7. This is a new single by Jack White.

9. This is what characters of Downton Abbey might say when greeting somebody.

10.The bad guy the Avengers must defeat.

11. The crippled valet of the Abbey Down 2. What you, the reader, are doing right now.

4. Paul Bettany’s character is The Avengers (hot stuff).

6. A true film, like the new movie ‘Bully’.

7. The act of intimidating a weaker person.

8. “Find out what it means to me,” and also, do this to other fans and opening acts at concerts.

11. Respect people’s personal ____ at concerts. Don’t pop my ____.

Crossword by Shelby Gee

4. Lower Dens– Nootropics

5. Marina & The Diamonds– Electra Heart Information compiled by MK Koszycki, graphic by Danielle Nelson

Valor Dictus May 7, 2012

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Valor Dictus May 7, 2012

Sports

Valor Dictus May 7, 2012 Volume 41 Issue 9 Bravely speaking to the Robinson Community 15

Chase Bailey- Sports Editor

Lindsay Webb - Sports Editor

In this section:

On page 15 read about the new sports leadership class.

On page 15 read about the boys’ tennis team’s season.

On page 15 read about recruiters eye club sports athletes.

sports briefs Leadership Sports Leadership class introduced This year, the sports leadership class will be offered at our school. Coaches Matt Cross and Bryan Hazard will be teaching the class they described as a cross between SGA and Sports Marketing.

“We’re talking SGA for athletes, something that Coach Hazard and I will do, and we want to have broadcasting and communications aspects in the class,” Cross said.

Hazard has been working with a college professor from the University of North Carolina to establish this class.

He said the class will prepare students later in life for a possible career in sports marketing.

“This is a class for sports marketing majors, where we will be able to offer internships through our program around the country,” Cross said.

The class will not just focus on high school athletics; it will also focus on some local club teams.

“We are going to partner up with some of our feeder schools to do some BRYC events, and little mini games,” Cross said.

Hazard said this class will be important for other schools who will introduce this class later.

Hazard said, “This class will be the boiling point for the future of sports leadership.”

– OWEN JOYCE

Tennis Girls’ tennis falls slightly behind With six wins and four losses, the varsity girls’ tennis team wrapped up their season April 27 at 3:30 p.m. The last game against Herndon High school was a success, yielding a score of 7-2.

Senior team member Miriam Eackloff said the Support the Troops Carnival, which took place the same day, brought many Ram fans to watch the game, and the team’s senior night.

It was supposed to be held the night before on April 26; however, inclement weather postponed the event to the next day.

“Senior Night was a success; we played Herndon and won,” Eackloff said. “I don’t recall the exact score but we did pretty well.

The juniors did a lot for us that day and night.”

The atmosphere of triumph was also tinged with some emotion for the seniors on the team, as they said goodbye to their high school sport.

Head coach Jeff Jones also had to say goodbye to the first group of seniors he has known for all four years, since he began coaching.

Eackloff said, “The seniors this year are Coach Jones’ first four year seniors on the team to graduate since he’s been coaching so it’s kind of sad.”

– REEM NADEEM

Boys’ tennis serves skillful displays With their thirteenth district title in a row, the boys’ tennis team continued its dominance of the Concorde district. Coming into the season, the team had never lost a match in the Concorde district, which it joined in 2005.

At the beginning of the season, not many in the Concorde district expected the team to continue its title streak.

“We exceeded expectations; we lost a lot of seniors and still we were able to finish with the district title,” junior Jacob Schreiman said.

The team was able to succeed, in part, because of their strong doubles lineup, which won at least two of the three doubles matches in each team match.

Even though the team was challenged for the first time in the district, the team was able use its smart, fundamentally sound play to come out victorious.

“We have worked hard in practice and Coach Paul [Fisher] has helped us tremendously with our fundamentals,” senior David Weinberg said.

Schreiman said, “We were not as physically gifted as we were in years past, but we were able to thrive because of our tough, scrappy play.”

– NICK RUNKEL

Photo by Hailey Metzger Practicing for Senior Night ­— Senior Kyle Groth moves the ball past junior teammate Michael Kim in preparation for their game against Herndon tonight.

Soccer shoots for victory Boys’ soccer competes for top spot in the district and region

BY NICK RUNKEL Staff Writer

Sixth. The boys’ soccer team is ranked above every team but five in The Washington Post’s Metropolitan Area boys’ soccer rankings.

“I’m excited about our ranking, but we still have a lot of work left to do,” junior Evan Christian said. “We are looking towards the postseason.”

Head coach Jac Cicala said the team has relied on their strong core of 14 seniors while amassing a record of eight wins, two losses, and two ties.

The team’s core group of upperclassmen has helped the team achieve a high level of team chemistry.

“We have great team chemistry; everyone gets along great with each other, and this has allowed us to be successful so far this season,” senior Ryan

Harmouche said.

Through 12 games this season, the team has allowed 10 goals while scoring 31.

“Our trademark has definitely been minimizing our opponent’s scoring chances,” Cicala said.

In addition to their stout defense, the team has been more effective than last season at capitalizing on their scoring chances.

“We have had great passing and movement in the offensive third and that has helped us score often,” junior Naveed Freshtvadi said.

Not only has the team’s passing been exceptional, but their shooting has been accurate.

“Our finishing has been excellent, when we get near the goal, we have a good chance at scoring,” junior Baris Safoglu said.

The team has their last regular season Concorde district game tonight against one of their toughest opponents, the fifth-ranked Herndon Hornets.

“We have to be ready for everyone in our district, but especially Herndon and Oakton because our only two losses this season have come to them,” Cicala said.

Looking forward to the district, regional and state playoffs, the team expects tough competition, but they also have high expectations.

“Our goal from the start of the season was to advance deep into the playoffs and play at a high level in the playoffs,” Harmouche said.

Although the team will have to face many quality teams in the playoffs, they will approach their games the same as always.

Cicala said, “We treat everyone team the same, no matter who they are, no matter what their ranking is. We don’t worry about our opponents, we worry about us.”

By the numbers

Boys’ Soccer

2 14 6

The number of games that have gone into overtime and resulted in a tie.

The number of seniors on the team.

Number of goals scored by senior Ryan Harmouche this season. He leads the team in goals.

Girls’ lacrosse fights uphill battle Girls’ lacrosse struggles despite mentality changes

BY JOE WHITE Staff Writer

The girls’ varsity lacrosse team is 3-8 thus far and is 2-3 in district play, losing their last game to Oakton 22-6.

The team has won three of their last five games, and coach Elizabeth Case believes the team’s record is not indicative of the effort the team has put in.

“Our record doesn’t reflect the way the girls have played and how they have been improving,” Case said.

Case said she believes the team’s rough start to the season is partially because she is new to coaching at our school.

“I think the slow start has to do with the fact that it is my first year coaching at Robinson,” Case said.

Case also said she believes the team has improved immensely and become a well-rounded group.

“In the beginning, people felt we weren’t as competitive as we are, but we can play anyone and be competitive with them,” Case said. “We have a strong defense and midfield but we are a complete team.”

Sophomore Maggie Hyland said she believes the

Photo by Lindsay Webb Moving to block the shot— Junior goalie Lauren Rauch blocks a shot from Chantilly. Although Chantilly led the first half, the team was able to close the deficit and beat the Chargers 15 to 11.

team has come a long way from the beginning of the season as well.

“We have slowly become a team; at first, we were struggling to find what we were doing wrong,” Hyland said.

Hyland said she feels keeping a positive attitude and being accountable for eah other’s actions, the team will continue to grow and succeed.

“Taking accountability as individuals and as a team has helped us come closer together,” Hyland said.

Hyland also said she thinks the respect the team has for coach Case has been a big part of their success in their last few games.

“We have a very talented coach; we have gotten used to her and she has helped us get motivated,” Hyland said.

Senior Campbell Collier, one of the four team

captains, attributed the team’s slow start to a change in the team’s mentality from the previous season.

“We had to adjust to each other; there was a different mentality last year and different role models to pick up the team’s intensity,” Collier said.

Collier said she believes the team has fought back against the adversity and believes they have become a contender in the district.

“We decided that we weren’t going to be pushed around and overlooked,” Collier said.

Collier said she feels the team has trouble fixing problems on the defensive end of the field.

Collier said, “We have trouble fixing problems on defense; we don’t struggle to find out what we are doing wrong. It just takes time to fix stuff on the field.”

Sports 16 Club sports take recruiting world by storm Valor Dictus May 7, 2012

Student athletes consistently use club sports to their advantage in recruiting process

BY OWEN JOYCE Staff Writer

In the world of high school sports, there are occasionally players on a team who dedicate their time not only to their high school team, but the club team they belong to as well.

“I play for the Skywalkers; they are a lacrosse team in Maryland,” senior Campbell Collier said.

Collier played club lacrosse for three years with different teams.

“I played for Capital lacrosse two years and I played for the Skywalkers for one year, and the Skywalkers are definitely the better team,” Collier said.

For Collier, playing lacrosse in the Maryland area is better, because of the community.

While Collier said she thinks the Skywalkers are a better team, it does not mean she did not get any exposure while on the Capital team.

“Before my sophomore year, I was the most valuable player at the Prague Cup, which is a tournament my club team went to held next

Campbell Collier; Class of 2012 Club Team: Skywalkers Time on Club: Three years Time on varsity: Four years College Decision: William and Mary More Exposure: On the Skywalkers Awards: MVP Prague Cup, DC Metro Under Armor Team, All-District Team, Second Team Nationals

to the World Cup of Lacrosse,” Collier said. “Maryland is better for lacrosse because it’s more a competitive place to be, and Baltimore is better lacrosse community.”

Juniors Savannah Miller and Haley Roberson both play for the VSA Heat. Miller said she believes her club league has harder competition.

“The club level of competition is definitely higher because everyone at that level is much better and when you’re in club you want to go farther with your sport,” Miller said.

Some athletes are more dedicated to their club team because they spend more time with them.

“I think that I am definitely more dedicated to my club team because I spend more time with them than my club team,” Roberson said.

However, there are some athletes who are more dedicated to their high school team.

“I think that I am definitely more dedicated to my high school team, because I have worked so long with those girls,” Collier said.

One of the reasons club teams are important to high school athletes is the of the amount of exposure they can get from playing.

“Club at the level I play at is about getting into college, because you can talk to your coach without breaking any rules, and they can talk to other coaches,” Collier said.

While club teams are good for college exposure, some clubs can be better than others.

Collier said, “I was looked at by some good colleges, but I think that if I had been on the Skywalkers then I would have been recruited by some Ivy League schools.”

Photo courtesy of Haley Roberson

Haley Roberson; Class of 2013 Club Team: VSA Heat Time on Club: One year and a half Time on varsity: Three years College Decision: Auburn University More Exposure: On the VSA Heat More Dedicated Team: VSA Heat Awards: Still to come

Photo courtesy of Campbell Collier

Playoff picture pans out

Baseball hits stride in districts, hope to win out

Boys’ lacrosse hopes to continue district success

The baseball team has posted a 4-2 district record and hold a share of first place, and have vastly improved following their rough start outside of district play. Given their defensive woes, they will have to clean it up in the field, yet have received quality run support from the top of the line-up. If the team’s pitching continues to dominate against district opponents and the defense sharpens up play, the team will experience playoff success and could be eyeing a Concorde District championship in the near future.

The team’s 3-1 district record is indicative of their strong attack and inability to forfeit close games. The team has had to battle adversity with the loss of their starting goalie to a concussion, yet the defense had stepped up in his absence and have proven the depth of the team is very strong. This being said, the team will have to continue their offensive success and score a decent amount of goals in order to advance far in the post season. If the team continues to score they may win the distict.

Boys’ soccer hopes to hang banners at season’s end

Girls’ soccer hope to stay steady, pay states a visit

With a district record of 2-0-1 and a stellar out of district record, the boys’ soccer team looks to continue their trend of great defense and goalie play, as they have never given up more than two goals in a game. Their offense has been up and down, as they tend to be streaky in the scoring department and can accredit both of their losses to offensive inconsistency. In the district, the team will be solid and will have a solid opportunity to steal away a district and regional championship.

With a 2-1-0 district record and solid overall record, the girls’ soccer team has been set up well going into the playoffs. A team who has arguably the most talent in the district would like to put last season’s disappointing playoff performance behind them and live up to their promising potential. With a particularly solid offense and knack for scoring, the team hopes to advance far into the playoffs, as the team is currently second in the district they will have an automatic bid into regional play if they hold that ranking.

The sports editors analyze sports teams’ chances of making a run for a championship.

Final playoff predictions

Boys Tennis- District Champs, Regional berth

Girls Tennis- fourth in District, Regional berth Boys Lacrosse- District Runner-ups, Regional Runnerups, State berth Girls Lacrosse- fifth in District Boys Soccer- District Champs, Regional Champs, State berth Girls Soccer- District Runnerups, third in region Baseball- third in District, Regional berth Softball- fifth in District