Physics – What is it?
Physics is a branch of science concerned with the nature and properties of matter and energy. The subject matter of physics includes mechanics, heat, light and other radiation, sound, electricity, magnetism, and the structure of atoms. The world of Physics is an exciting but daunting field of study and spans many different aspects of our universe.
We develop different theories to understand and predict the world around us. Experiments are then conducted to validate or disprove our original theory. Theory, without practice would be very boring and very difficult. For this reason, we conduct regular experiments and visit industry where many of the theories can be seen in action and the power of our knowledge be harnessed to benefit mankind.
Our Year 10 & 11 students recently conducted experiments to prove Ohm’s Law. Definition: a law stating that electric current is proportional to voltage and inversely proportional to resistance.
For more information on the application of physics follow the link to this brilliant article.
https://www.topuniversities.com/student-info/careers-advice/what-can-you-do-physics-degree
Patrick Katzen
High School Physics Teacher
Read More
A Taste For Science
The Year 6 classes recently experienced their first taste of high school.
The students had the opportunity to conduct a very “hands on” investigation on digestion in the mouth. They used pipettes to examine what happens when they put a drop of Iodine on a piece of bread from the packet, and a piece that they had gently held and chewed in their mouths for three minutes. The experiment was conducted because Iodine is able to determine if starch is present in a food or not. Overall, the students really enjoyed themselves and we would like to thank Mrs Goch for allowing us the use of her laboratory. #sciencerocks
Marisa Esterhuizen
Year 6 Teacher
A21 Talk About Human Trafficking: Student Responses
On Friday 12th July, it was a privilege for Blouberg International School to receive guests, The A21 Campaign. They shared valuable information about the dangers of human trafficking.
They taught us how to better equip ourselves in harmful situations so as to enlighten us to be as safe as possible when using social media platforms. This can be done by not being easily lured by prospects such as international sporting and job opportunities as well as modeling and scouting — no matter how determined one may be.
The A21 Campaign offers insightful information at various branches worldwide. How can one get involved? This can be done by donating money, creating awareness, inviting people to talks given by victims and survivors and participating in annual charity walks. Word can be spread by reposting informative videos and hosting charitable competitions within your communities and schools.
The motto of A21 is “Slavery Ends Here”. The message that can be learned from this is that whilst modern slavery is the fault of those abused, the rest of society has a role to play in fulfilling our duty as fellow citizens. Make a change today!
– Lwazi Mpofu-Mketwa (Year 12)
_________________________________________________________________________________________
Last week Friday we had A21, an organization which assists victims of human trafficking, visit our school. To say that a lot of us were moved is an understatement. We all gained so much information about what human trafficking actually is and how even when victims are rescued, they are never really emotionally free. It was shocking to learn that only 1% of victims are rescued and that traffickers maintain control by manipulating our vulnerabilities, our desire for food, shelter etc. The experience was stark and eye-opening. However, not everything is doom and gloom. A21 have 14 different locations in 12 countries across the globe. The organization rescues victims of human trafficking and helps them get back on their feet after their traumatic experience.
On the 19th of October, the organization is holding an event called ‘Walk for Freedom’ to raise awareness about human trafficking. Participants walk a designated route, wearing A21 t-shirts and carry placards in an effort to get people’s attention and make the public aware of the reality of human trafficking. The message is that slavery still exists and as a community we need to identify the victims and abolish this heinous trade.
– Etseoghena Oyoto (Year 12)
Read More
Year 11 Chemistry Students Visit Aspen Pharma
This past Wednesday, the Year 11 Chemistry class went on an outing to Fine Chemicals Corporation, a division of Aspen Pharmacare, to learn about the applications of chemistry in pharmaceutical manufacturing. What an interesting visit it was! We were given a tour of the different on-site laboratories and learnt about large scale chemical manufacturing.
The plant we visited manufactures APIs (active pharmaceutical ingredients) that are used in the production of medicines. In every step of this manufacturing process, quality control is vital to ensure a superior product is made. We toured the Quality Control Laboratory and saw the uses of many of the chemical processes we have learnt about in the classroom. It was fascinating to see these chemical processes in real-life.
We also toured the Analytical Development Division Laboratory and the Research & Development Laboratory where analytical chemists conduct further tests to improve product quality and work on more efficient ways to produce these products. The staff at Fine Chemicals Corporations were very informed and helpful and answered all of our questions about: how the plant operates; the importance of safety in a laboratory; laboratory instrumentation; and the uses of the products they produce.
Philippa Goch
High School Teacher
Why projects, posters, models and presentations?
During the course of your child’s educational career they will be required to participate in projects, posters, models and presentations in many of their subjects. Some students prefer this method of learning, reveling in the creativity they can display, while others groan and moan about what the point is. Posters and models are not implemented just for display. They have significant value in the learning process and stimulating cognitive development. Yes, they do brighten up a classroom and provide relief from the normal assessment routine, but really, what is the point?
Projects, posters and models can have quite a positive effect on the process of learning. The advantage of these types of activities is that it promotes team work and understanding, along with facilitating creative thinking, extensive research and reading. It provides students with an opportunity to learn by doing, in turn strengthening their understanding of the concepts being explored. Students are able to visually represent the key points and while presenting, elaborate on the topic which facilitates their retention and recall of events and facts. Projects, posters, model making and presentation are also effective tools for evaluating the students’ knowledge and creates opportunities for active discussion and participation. Be it the traditional posters, handmade models or technologically advanced computer presentations it is evident that they can actively engage students in the learning process.
(credit source: The professional learning board)
The year 7’s produced models of volcanoes with Mr Alex Fraqueiro this term in their quest to find out more about our earth and what goes on inside it. This activity helped them to identify they key features of volcanoes and what makes them erupt. They produced some beautiful and physically correct models of Strato-volcanoes (composite volcanoes) and thoroughly enjoyed the learning process behind it.
Janine van Niekerk
High School Geography
From the Principal’s Desk – 24th May 2019
Dear Parents,
The week spent with our exchange students from Ecuador went by far too quickly and it was sad moment for me when I said goodbye to them on Monday morning. We are very grateful for the reciprocal invitation extended by our sister school in Ecuador and I am certain there are many families who will wish to take advantage of such an exciting opportunity.
I would like to extend a special thank you to the following families for their warmth and care in welcoming the exchange students into their homes:
Leonard family.
Pieterse family.
Lott family.
Schoots family.
Barker family.
Knowles family.
Thatcher family.
Tardieu family.
Ngono family.
De Matos family.
Ameer family.
Da Silva family.
I am certain you are left with wonderful memories and have built strong friendships which will continue into the future.
The first week of examinations are winding up for our Year 5 and Year 6 students and with High School examinations starting this coming Monday, 27th May, we wish all our students the very best.
This week marks a special date for our High School students as they honor the role models in their lives. The Junior School celebrates Grandparents/Someone Special Day annually and we thought it to be a good idea for our High School students to reflect on, and pay respect to, the role models in their own lives. We are looking forward to the first of our celebration of ‘Our Role Models’ on Friday, 24th of May.
“When any of us thinks of ourselves as a role model – whether that’s as a parent being observed by their kids or a teacher under the microscope of their followers – it creates a natural stepping up of how we carry ourselves and what we expect from ourselves.”
Chip Conley
I wish you all a wonderful weekend.
Regards
Edna
High School Examination Tips
The June exams are less than two weeks away and preparation should be underway, especially for Years 10 and 12. Arguably the best way to counter exam stress is to come prepared. To this end, I have ten guidelines students can follow that will go a long way to helping them feel prepared and confident for each exam.
- Print a copy of their exam timetable and put it in a prominent and safe place.
- Compile and stick to a study timetable.
- Give yourself sufficient study time for each subject.
- Identify topics you find most challenging and, if necessary, ask for assistance from the subject teacher. Do this as far in advance of your exam as possible.
- Utilize effective study methods rather than simply reading the textbook.
- Avoid pulling “all-nighters”.
- Limit your social calendar (holidays are just around the corner and good friends will wait).
- Avoid fad diets so as to maximize energy and concentration.
- Pack the necessary equipment for each exam, including a spare pen.
- Arrive punctually for each exam.
I also encourage parents to be involved in their child’s exam preparation. We know, often from our own experience as students, how easy it is to become distracted and bored. Encourage regular study sessions with short breaks, physical activity and healthy eating. Do not be afraid to check up on your child’s exam preparation progress, even if they are in their final years of school.
I wish students all the best for their exams and I hope that they have a safe and enjoyable holiday.
Sheila Marais
High School Teacher
From the Principal’s Desk – 2nd May 2019
Dear Parents
I trust you all enjoyed a well-deserved, mid-week break yesterday and were able to spend it with loved ones.
I have been thinking this week about the different phases, or seasons, we experience during the course of our lives. These seasons roll through every aspect of our lives, whether it be home life, the workplace or friendships. Perhaps it’s just a matter of growing older gracefully. Things which seemed of tantamount importance in our twenties are no longer an issue in our thirties and forties; our outlook on life and our goals change as we grow older and as our children grow up.
It is during holidays like yesterday that I remember, with mixed feelings, that my children have grown up and have their own holiday plans. I admit to feeling torn and initially felt relief (as my wallet is my own again) but also surprised, and a little saddened that they don’t need me like they did when they were little. This doesn’t have to be the end of an era however! The key is in planning family time differently to how we did when the children were younger; each different stage of life requires its own planning and goals. New hobbies can be explored, new ventures undertaken and, most importantly, new guidance given to our growing children.
Every season sparks a new beginning and should be treated with optimism for the potential it holds. Cherish the time spent with your younger children and find new ways of spending time with your teenagers. If you have some newly-minted adults in your home, as I do, encourage them to fly and gently, but firmly, tip them out of the nest…they will thank you one day.
“I will remain focused on my goals. Even if I have a moment of difficulty, I will not give up. I know success comes with consistency. I know that I will make it. Things will get better. No problem or challenge will stop me. Everything I deserve is coming my way.”
– Author unknown.
Please remember we have an Interactive Curriculum Morning this Saturday, 04 May 2019. We look forward to seeing you there!
Kind regards
Edna
From the Principal’s Desk – 25th April 2019
Dear Parents
I trust you all had a wonderful Easter break and enjoyed some special family time.
Over the past week or so, bullying at schools has been a hotly discussed topic on the news, radio stations and social media. Cyber bullying was identified as being the most prevalent and therefore, of most concern. It has become such an important discussion topic that the Western Cape Education Department is launching several programs to aid schools in dealing with cyber bullying.
Discipline is a responsibility which starts at home. As a school we need to be mindful of the differing rights and responsibilities of both students and educators, whilst at all times maintaining a positive outlook of our school. Positive discipline practices, and the role which parents play in them, are integral in providing a base on which we can expand as the student matures. However, when things go awry it is important to have the necessary support structures in place, not just for students, but for educators and parents as well. We are therefore very grateful to have Mrs. Cindy Arenstein as an addition to our team. In her capacity as a counselor she recently hosted a talk with parents about Protective Behaviours, in what was an incredibly valuable and informative session.
Our unfortunate reality is that social media is being used to lure students into detrimental, and downright dangerous, situations; cyber bullying being just one aspect of the larger problem. WhatsApp conversations, YouTube and Instagram comments are freely used to criticize and belittle others. Most of the time students are unaware that these messages can be used against them if legal proceedings arise.
We are looking into arranging various workshops and talks to raise awareness amongst our students and help them to be cautious when dealing with social media. We ask that as parents you assist us by having checks in place, in terms of the types of media the students are using and the amount of screen time they rack up on their various devices. Further information about upcoming workshops will be communicated soon.
Wishing you a wonderful weekend ahead.
Kind regards
Edna
High School Second Term 2019
Welcome back to all our students and parents and we hope everyone had an enjoyable and well-deserved holiday.
Term 2 is going to be especially busy as, aside from the usual sports fixtures, this is an examinations term and we urge students to begin preparing as soon as possible for the June examinations. Sport practices will start on Monday the 15th of April 2019 and information regarding practise days can be found in the term 2 planner.
Our Year 9 and 10 students are on camp this week and we hope they are having a wonderful time! A newsletter article and photos of the camp will be published as soon as possible.
The High School will have parent evenings on Monday the 15th of April through to Wednesday the 17th of April 2019. It is essential that parents make a booking, through the Engage portal, with the subject teacher they wish to meet and a letter with instructions as to the booking process has been emailed to parents on Engage.
We want to thank all our parents for their continued support as we look forward to a productive second term.
Mr Julian Harrison
Head of Academics – High School