Throughout this project, it is reasonable to say that this composition of a song of advocacy has simultaneously been the most interesting as well as the most difficult composition that I have done throughout any musical experience that I have so far.

We were fortunate to attend a “Winter Recital” performance from some of our senior music students. Pianists, Ryusuke Nagao, grade 12 and Yeojun Jeon (Joseph) grade 9 with Cellist Yu Tang Tan also from grade 9. Repertoire choices were some of the most challenging for any musician, of any age to master. Each piece the students’ performed demonstrated the highest technical and musical skills.

The hardest song to write is a topical song with meaning, a song that advocates for a cause. Telling stories is one of the most powerful means that people have to influence, teach, and inspire. What makes storytelling so effective for learning? Storytelling forges connections among people, and between people and ideas. Stories convey the culture, history, and values that unite people.

The students of Design at SSIS have been very proactive and busy this first semester preparing artifacts and visuals of their current Semester one projects. The work, currently on display in the SSIS Lobby, is a collective snapshot of learning across all MYP and DP courses.

On 12 and 13 January, SSIS presented two Secondary Chinese Learning Showcases. Throughout the events, parents visited classes to see first-hand what their children have been learning in Chinese. For students and teachers, it was also a good opportunity to demonstrate their learning outcome.