PYP Co-Curricular

End of Term Class Party

Taekwondo Belt Promotion Ceremony 2024

'King & I' - by PYP III & IV

“I regard the theatre as the greatest of all art forms, the most immediate way in which a human being can share with another the sense of what it is to be a human being.” - Oscar Wilde
In a spectacular display of talent and wholeheartedness, the students of PYP III and IV at Learning Alliance International presented a mesmerizing rendition of Rodgers and Hammerstein's beloved musical, 'The King and I'. This annual production, a cornerstone of our school's artistic calendar, showcased the students' unwavering commitment to the performing arts and their remarkable growth throughout the process.
The stage came alive with breathtaking sets that transported the audience to the heart of Siam, complemented by a melodious choir and meticulously crafted costumes that added depth and authenticity to the characters. The young actors, supported by a dedicated production team and faculty, delivered a performance that was both captivating and heartwarming.
Over the course of two months, 104 students, including the cast, choir, dance crew, and production team, worked closely with each other under the guidance of our talented director and with the support of our Arts and Design Department to bring this production to life. Their hard work and diligence shone through every aspect of the performance, from the seamless coordination of lighting and sound to the intricate details of set design.
The students' portrayal of the royal children was particularly memorable, adding an authentic and endearing touch to the production. Their performances were a testament to their growth in confidence, teamwork, and creativity, reflecting the core values of the IB philosophy that we strive to instill in our students.
'The King and I' was not just a play, but a journey of discovery for our students, where they learned the power of collaboration, perseverance, and the transformative magic of theatre. This production was a resounding success and a testament to the exceptional talent and dedication of our young performers.

International Kangaroo Mathematics Contest 2024

International Day of Literacy

PYP celebrated the International Day of Literacy in lieu of UNESCO’s theme: ‘Promoting literacy for a world in transition: Building the foundation for sustainable and peaceful societies’. We discussed the importance of literacy in our day to day lives and how it empowers students and develops individuals and communities. From intriguing storytelling sessions, interactive book-mark crafting activities to playing games that are centered around the significance of literacy; all activities were designed and executed in classrooms. Our learners made posters to celebrate Literacy Day and wrote catchy taglines and suggestions for UNESCO to raise funds for the education of the underprivileged. Students thoroughly enjoyed learning about various Genres of Literature. They picked their favourite genre by exploring books in the Library and also got a chance to play an interactive scavenger hunt game that heightened their interests and encouraged them to learn about various famous books & authors.

 

Asian Youth Chess Championship 2023

We are delighted to share that the LAI Under12 Chess Team, reigning as National Champions, is set to represent Pakistan at the upcoming 'Asian Youth Chess Championship 2023' in AlAin, UAE from December 12 - 22. The team comprises Ayat Asmi (MYP I), Mysha Furqan Chaudhry (PYP IV), and Essa Hussain Lal (PYP III).

The entire LAI school community extends its heartfelt wishes to these outstanding young chess players as they embark on this exciting journey. Best of luck in the competition! Whether it's a victory or a valuable experience, know that we are all immensely proud of you!

 

WORLD TOURISM DAY - ‘TOURISM AND GREEN INVESTMENT'

A HOMAGE TO DR. ALLAMA MUHAMMAD IQBAL - THE POET OF THE EAST

Winning Buzz at The Pakistan Spelling Bee

PYP V Class Presentation

Field trip to Green fields

"Wherever you go, go with all your heart" ~ Confucius

Charity drive bake sale

In order to inculcate the spirit of community service, the students of IB PYP at Learning Alliance International celebrated the International Day of Charity by hosting a Bake Sale on Monday, 4th September 2023. The proceeds from the Bake Sale in collaboration with LAI Creativity, Activity and Service (CAS) will be donated to ‘Sanjan Nagar Public Education Trust School’ – a charitable organisation.

The PYP Bake Sale was also an initiative to help our students become more confident, conscientious and caring individuals. The students expressed immense interest and zeal in the activity, where some even went a step ahead and baked the healthy food items put up for the sale, themselves.

Celebrating the Incredible Constant - Pi !!!

Pi Day is celebrated annually on March 14th (3/14), in honor of the mathematical constant pi, which is approximately equal to 3.14159. On this day, students at LAI MYP engaged in various activities related to pi, including group presentations on the discovery and history of pi. Students worked together to research and present on the contributions of mathematicians like Archimedes and Isaac Newton, who made significant discoveries about pi throughout history. Additionally, students participated in fun and engaging activities, like pi memorization challenge, where they tried to calculate the maximum number of decimals of pi in 5 minutes.

A number of activities were conducted in PYP also during different lessons and the outcome manifested students' interest in learning about the real life application of the incredible constant-pi! They were delighted to understand the stability and infiniteness of this constant as they linked it up with circles. Some students also baked pies at home to celebrate the day.

These activities helped the IB learners to better understand the importance of pi and its applications in mathematics and beyond, as well as its historical and cultural significance.

Celebrating the 'Spirit of Punjab'

MEET & GREET with the IB World School Senior Manager from IBAP, Singapore

LAI hosted a meet and greet session with the IB World School Manager Florian Ciprian Baciu from the IBAP Office, Singapore. The leadership team elucidated the teaching and learning practices at LAI through a walk across PYP-MYP-DP classrooms. The student and teacher agency at LAI remained a subject of commendation, while Mr. Florian also greatly complimented the campus aesthetics.  In addition to ardently discussing the empathy-driven practices at LAI, the senior leadership team presented an overview of the upcoming milestones to the IB Senior Manager. As a part of this visit, the IB World School Manager conducted a useful workshop on Programme Development Plan (PDP) for the Pedagogical and Strategic Leaders from IB Schools, Lahore.
We are grateful to the International Baccalaureate for keeping us abreast with novel IB practices and extending relentless support in this regard. As a gesture of hospitality, the LAI leadership team hosted a dinner for the IB World School Manager at the Walled City Lahore, with the extravaganza of Pakistan's cultural landmarks in all their glory. The experience served as a treat for the palate, an enchanting sight to behold and an evening to remember. Building on the valuable insights from this visit, LAI looks forward to inculcating enhanced IB practices in its quest for consistent excellence.

INSET : Making INQUIRY visible in IB

Where we are in Place & Time
PYP III - Summative Assessment

4th International Collaboration of Extended Essay

WHO WE ARE

The phantom Tollbooth

Celebrating Allama Mohammad Iqbal,"Hakeem-ul-Ummat"

Where we are in Place and Time - Tuning in Activity - Visit to Lahore Museum

PYP III students embarked upon their second theme 'Where we are in place and time' and discussed the importance of preserving artifacts. They were able to come up with the notion that examining artifacts helps us find out about the history of cultures, people and their lifestyles.

As part of the tuning in activity, students made a visit to the Lahore Museum and observed a variety of artifacts in various galleries. They were enthralled to see pots, utensils, ornaments and toys from the Harrappan civilization in the Asian Gallery. Students were also fascinated to look at the costumes of emperors, scriptures of holy books and carvings in the Islamic Gallery.

Moreover, artifacts in the Chinese, Sikh and Buddhist Gallery also captivated the attention of the students. A variety of arms and weapons, coins, postage stamps and pictures of famous personalities from the era of Pakistan's creation also helped students recall the historical events. It was a valuable learning experience for the learners as they understood that artifacts are precious treasures that help us unravel stories and incidents from the past.

Students are going to further reflect on their learning throughout the theme as they make timelines from important events in the past and emphasize on the significance of artifacts.

Where we are in Place and Time – Tuning in Activity

As we stepped into the second theme "Where we are in Place and Time", we aimed at learning about exploration and discovery. In this theme, students have been curious to conduct an inquiry regarding human consequences that lead to exploration. Also, they wanted to find out how the exploration of elements of Earth (land,water,space) has advanced over time.
In order to tune in to the theme, students were briefly made to visit a nearby park. They thought of themselves as explorers and were also able to distinguish between exploration and discovery. This activity further supported their understanding of maps as they drew a map of the park as part of their reflection. This activity was done in pairs as students discussed different perspectives of how they could design a map.

BAKE SALE

In solidarity with the flood victims and in order to inculcate the spirit of community service, the students of IB PYP at Learning Alliance International held a Bake Sale on Tuesday, 20th September 2022. The proceeds from the Bake Sale in collaboration with LAI Creativity, Activity and Service (CAS) will be donated to 'Akhuwat' – a charitable organisation. 

The PYP Bake Sale was also an initiative to help our students become more confident, conscientious and caring individuals. The students expressed immense interest and zeal in the activity, where some even went a step ahead and baked the healthy food items put up for the sale, themselves.

World Tourism Day - Taking action to ‘Rethink Tourism’

International Literacy Day Celebrations

NATIONAL DEFENCE DAY

Getting to Know IB PYP

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International Emerging Artists' Challenge (IEAC)

Elementary level IAC Asia & Oceania Geography Championships 2022

Class of 2022 Celebrations

EXHIBITION 2022

BLESSINGS IN A BOX

‘Earth & Space’ Class Activity

Young Entrepreneurs

"For every minute spent in organising, an hour is earned" - Benjamin Franklin

In order to evince their ability as young entrepreneurs and reflect upon their learning for the theme "How we organize ourselves", PYP II students at LAI effectively set up a marketplace with organizational displays that included small scale businesses, social services and retail outlets. While this was an excellent opportunity for them to learn about business management and organizational skills, students essentially enjoyed brainstorming strategies about marketing as well as communicating ideas as to how they could successfully promote their businesses.

As an integral part of their assessment, students also designed brochures, business cards and logos for their respective organizations which included bakeries, salons, art and craft, book shop and social service for water conservation.

The final outcome was a remarkable success as parents came to visit the students' marketplace and profoundly enjoyed meeting these passionate entrepreneurs. This parent-student interaction manifested a wellspring of student enthusiasm, open mindedness and innovation.

"How we organize ourselves"- Learning Through Action

“For the things we have to learn before we can do them, we learn by doing them.” ― Aristotle

PYP IV students embarked on an extensive learning journey for their theme "How we organize ourselves" as they explored and conducted in-depth research about the basic building blocks of life that encompass all matter.

To further showcase learning through action, students used their thinking and self-management skills, and brainstormed ideas about scientific principles underlying the models that were designed over the course of the theme. These 3D models revolved around the Big Bang Universe Theory, the Periodic table of Elements, structure and particles of atoms, compounds, molecules, polymers, human blood composition, animal and plant cells, elements in the atmosphere, space and the human body.
As students presented these models to their audience, they also confidently articulated their knowledge about the respective scientific phenomena associated with the model. The learning community including parents, teachers and PYP students from other grade levels were enchanted to listen to the students and appreciably enjoyed interactive activities such as the periodic table quiz, making the bouncy balls activity, edible human blood candy and Venn diagram to compare plant and animal cells. Students relished the opportunity as they received constructive feedback and encouragement from their audience.

WEVOI NATIONAL!

The Spirit of Pakistan Day

“My message to you all is of hope, courage and confidence. Let us mobilize all our resources in a systematic and organized way and tackle the grave issues that confront us with the grim determination and discipline worthy of a great nation.”

– QUAID-E-AZAM MUHAMMAD ALI JINNAH

Words spoken by our Founder, still resonate in our ears as we approach Pakistan day. March 23rd will forever hold importance in the history as Pakistan Day, commemorating the resolution’s passing at Lahore in 1940 for which the leading Muslim League’s political activists worked tirelessly and a few of them, later on, served in the political arena of the new nation as well.

This year the students of LAI celebrated 23rd March by reflecting on the Importance and significance of having a Muslim state, in their classrooms. The vision and determination of our leaders to have an all Muslim state was shared with the students, making them realize the sacrifices that our ancestors had to make to give us our own land that we proudly call Pakistan. I&S, Pakistan Studies, and IDU facilitators incorporated the essence of Pakistan Day in their respective lessons by sharing videos and documentaries on ‘Why we should celebrate 23rd March?’ Visual arts facilitator made the students grasp the spirit of their homeland by painting the Pakistan Flag in their process journals. Also, interesting and very healthy debates were witnessed in our IB classrooms highlighting the pride we take in our beloved homeland.

Marching into Spring

Pi Day Celebrations

Punjab Cultural Day Celebrations

Celebrating International WOMEN'S Day

Celebrating International Mother Language Day

Punjab Open Chess Championship ​2022

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Young Scientists - Understanding Chemical Reactions

PYP V students while studying the properties of matter, visited the science lab to further understand the physical and chemical changes that matter goes through. Using the scientific method, they formed a hypothesis about how baking soda would react with vinegar; They then tested their hypothesis by mixing the two, made observations and recorded the data. The young learners were pleasantly surprised when the balloons fitted on their flasks inflated with gas produced due to this chemical reaction. 

 

The experiment helped reinforce what chemical and physical changes are, and the vital role reactants play in forming a byproduct.

How & Why We Advertise ?

Students of PYP III had a great time learning about the field of Advertisement. Informative sessions were held during their inquiry around the Central Idea which was 'Advertisements may persuade people to take action'. To make this learning journey exciting, the facilitators had invited parents, who are associated with the field of advertising and marketing. Young PYP learners thoroughly enjoyed the interactive presentations, and the Q&A session with the professionals.

Book Reading Cafe!

"The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you'll go." - Dr. Seuss

LEARNING BEYOND BORDERS !

On Tuesday, 30th November 2021, students of IB PYP II at Learning Alliance International engaged in an online roundtable session organised by the Abdul Kadir Molla International School, Bangladesh. The session was attended by our young learners along with other students of international schools in India and Bangladesh. The online conference encouraged students to share their cultural identities, values and beliefs. It also presented students with opportunities to discuss empathetic solutions, while investigating case studies. The process helped students see purpose and assume ownership, as they worked through real life scenarios and worked together at finding solutions.

Mulligans Junior League Tournament

Zoay Qureshi of IB PYP III participated in the Mulligan Junior League Golf Tournament at DHA Raya Golf & Country Club. She participated in the U-14 championships and managed to grab 1st position (gross) at just the age of 8 in both the boys and girls category.

AN ODE TO - ALLAMA IQBAL

Reading Week & Character Parade

MINI SPORTS GALA

"Never say never. Because limits, like fears are often just an illusion" _ Michael Jordan

LAI Observing 73rd death anniversary of Quaid-e-Azam

The 73rd death anniversary of the father of the nation, Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, who gave the Muslims of South Asia a separate country on the basis of Two Nation Ideology, is being observed today.
Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah is counted among people who have achieved prominence owing to their struggles and accomplishments.
Students of LAI IBDP engaged in a discussion regarding the importance of freedom, human rights and the significance of a seperate nation. The MYP students, in their INS class discussed the challenges and problems people of Pakistan face today; and how to make it a prosperous country by following Quaid’s principles. In Language Acquisition - URDU, The MYP I wrote an essay on 'Mera Pyara Pakistan, and had conversations about the struggles of making an Independent State by Jinnah."
A moment of silence was observed as tribute to the "Founder of the Nation". People from different walks of life visit the Quaid’s mausoleum in Karachi to offer Fateha and lay floral wreaths on his grave.

PYP Celebrating DEFENCE DAY

At LAI, PYP students observed 6th September as the nation's Defence Day with great fervour and enthusiasm. Their reflections articulated the importance of perseverance and integrity. Several national heroes remained a highlight of the lessons to commemorate their honourable sacrifices.
The inspiration drawn from the events of this day allowed students to express joy in taking pride in their identity. Also, they relished the opportunity to interact and share their insights about how they could play an active role in serving the homeland to the best of their abilities.
In PYP V, the UOI lesson opened with the ISPR song "Har Ghari Tayyar Kamran Hain Hum". In this upbeat and motivational song, learners were able to identify different forms of armed forces and their purpose. They discussed the significance of Defence Day and learnt how the whole nation came together on this day to defend its freedom, honour and sovereignty. The students talked about then President of Pakistan, Gen. Ayub Khan's address to the nation, which united the nation and helped us achieve victory in this 17 day war. Our young PYP learners analyzed the text structure by identifying cause and effect from the President's speech. They were also able to make connections to their learning in the past week as well as extend their thinking and relate to the making of Pakistan.

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Summative Task Primary Years Programme "Theme 5: How we organise ourselves:"

"PYP II students learned and discussed how a marketplace works while also keeping in mind the key terms; supply and demand, trade, need or want, producer and consumer. For their summative task, they were required to set up their own marketplace with 4-5 items that they could easily collect at home.

PYP X 21 - "A Virtual Sharing"

One of the most significant events in IB Primary Years Programme is the Annual Exhibition. It is the culmination of a student's experience at PYP and a chance for them to celebrate their learning of the 6 Transdisciplinary themes with the entire school community.

Art for Change – 7th International Child Art Competition & Exhibition

The theme for Art for Change – 7th International Child Art Competition & Exhibition was "Local & World Heritage”.

Celebrating Earth Day

DLP Literacy & Urdu lessons - 'Show & Share'

"Children learn as they play. Most importantly, in play children learn how to learn." _ O Fred Donaldson

Spreading Smiles

Nashmia Malik MYP V, Huda Malik MYP II, Anabia Malik PYP II of Learning Alliance International are volunteering for the SPREADING SMILES initiative this RAMAZAN. They are a part of this initiative every year to make Eid enjoyable and Special for Children at Orphanages.

DISTANCE LEARNING PROGRAMME

"The need for imagination, as a sense of truth, and as a feeling of responsibility -- these are the three forces which are the very nerve of education."
― Rudolf Steiner
The Distance Learning Programme at LAI resumed after Spring Break, as students excitedly returned to their classrooms ready to move on with their learning. The teachers welcomed the students with interesting plans for their Google meet sessions and the children enthusiastically told stories about the much awaited break - It was interesting to see the varied and colourful interactions between the teachers and students through the use of Jamboards, Padlets, interactive white boards and informative videos. The students enjoyed their Unit of Inquiry, Numeracy and Literacy lessons focusing on ATL skills and the activities involving Gymnastics, Public Speaking and Visual Arts. As the MYP worked on their Personal Project with their mentors, DP students planned the next phase of their learning journey after their success in securing admissions into the sought after universities around the world and PYP students pored over their PYP Exhibition plans, the first day after the resumption of DLP remained an exciting affair throughout.
Through the use of a carefully planned and coherent curriculum DLP at Learning Alliance International continues to provide an interactive and effective platform in these unusual times. This structure and planning was visible in all the classrooms today as the teachers and the learners engaged in an invigorating experience of sharing and learning about the various concepts together.

STEM in Primary Years Programme

PYP II students displayed remarkable inventive thinking skills as they engaged in a variety of STEM activities for their theme "How the World Works". They created various models of simple machines using a wide range of recycled materials and further investigated the effect of forces including applied force, friction, gravity and drag on how the machines work. Students digged in deeper to witness and explain Newton's Laws of Motion as they made a popsicle stick catapult representing a lever, a pulley with a wheel and axle, a plastic bag parachute showing friction and drag and a balloon rocket to show opposing forces. Working on Lever, Parachute, Catapult, Pulley and Balloon Rocket Activity, they worked on demonstrating Newton's law of Action and Reaction , Force as well as Gravity. As a final step, students came up with consequential ideas about how these simple machines could be used to serve a purpose in the real life context.

Celebrating the 23rd of March, Pakistan Day

Every year, on the 23rd of March, Pakistan Day is celebrated in the country with national enthusiasm and patriotic zeal. The day commemorates the adoption of the Pakistan Resolution or the Lahore Resolution by the All India Muslim League in 1940 at Lahore’s Minto Park, now known as The Greater Iqbal Park.
The students of LAI celebrated the day online learning about how the Pakistan Day Resolution demanded a separate state for South Asian Muslims – a state where Muslims can live in a majority, observe their cultural and religious festivities, and freely engage in Islamic religious worships without having any feeling of obstruction by the Hindus who were in majority at that time in undivided Sub Continent.
The students of PYP V did multiple activities including one in numeracy with the Pakistan Flag. The students learned about reflective symmetry of the flag of Pakistan in all the 4 quadrants. The MYP Visual Art class incorporated the study of optical illusions in a modern day designed fantasy flag of Pakistan. Other than commemorating the 23rd March Pakistan Resolution, MYP Individuals & Societies class discussed how this day also honors the adoption of Pakistan’s First Constitution on 23 March 1956 that marked the successful transition – from the Dominion of Pakistan to the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, making Pakistan the world’s first Islamic Republic.

Celebrating International Women's Day 2021

International Women's Day is a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women. The day also marks a call to action for accelerating gender parity. Significant activity is witnessed worldwide as groups come together to celebrate women's achievements or rally for women's equality.
Marked annually on March 8th, International Women's Day (IWD) is one of the most important days of the year to:
celebrate women's achievements, raise awareness about women's equality, lobby for accelerated gender parity and fundraising for female-focused charities
The campaign theme for International Women's Day this year 2021 is 'Choose To Challenge'. A challenged world is an alert world. And from challenge comes change. So let's all #ChooseToChallenge. The students of DP I and II spoke about the various situations we all need to challenge in a collective or an individual manner. They wrote speeches and shared their thoughts about the initiatives being currently taken in Pakistan for women. MYP II made a compilation of vdos to express what they feel about IWD. The younger students of PYP wrote small notes about their role models and some drew significant maternal figures in their lives.

The first day back at school

“I like the dreams of the future better than the history of the past” - Thomas Jefferson
One of the many things that 2020 taught us is resilience in the face of unexpected circumstances. It is only through adapting to the new normal that we have been able to pull through - a testament to that is the fabulous Distance Learning Platform & Hybrid Learning Programme conceived and regulated here at Learning Alliance International.
With the 2021 setting in, our students, who were on DLP, once again transitioned into Hybrid Learning Programme and attended the first day on campus with infectious enthusiasm. The absolute joy of setting foot in the familiar environment of the school after a long time was visible on the tiny masked faces. The lessons continued in the colourful classrooms arranged to provide an optimum learning experience in a socially distanced manner. Sounds of music and laughter echoed in the corridors and there were monitored PSPE lessons held outdoors.
The first day back at school witnessed various activities in a fun-filled environment, allowing students of PYP I - V to socialize with safe distancing and foster healthy collaboration with each other.

HOW THE WORLD WORKS

PYP IV is learning about the Natural Resources of the World and their growing demand in this term's Transdisciplinary Theme that is 'HOW THE WORLD WORKS'. Through their online class discussions involving various learning tools, students inquired about the importance of water, its usage and conservation in our daily lives. The students learnt how we only have 4% of clean water available on Earth and explored about ways in which we can sustain what is left of it. The PYP Students also made posters to create awareness about the importance of using water carefully without wasting it.

NEW YEAR - NEW RESOLUTIONS

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A TRIBUTE TO IQBAL - 'POET OF THE EAST'

“The ultimate aim of the ego is not to see something, but to be something” Allama Iqbal

IB@LAI celebrated Iqbal Day on 9th November, with utmost zeal and gusto, to commemorate the life and vision of Dr. Allama Muhammad Iqbal, “Poet of the East”.
Iqbal's philosophy and vision had been discussed in class in the weeks preceding the performance and teachers as well as students were thoroughly involved in the process. Iqbal's writings especially with reference to his poems with a message for children was a favourite topic in class discussions both on campus and virtually.
During the ceremony to commemorate the poet the students recited his all time favourite poems and spoke about the poet with reference to IB learner profile attributes like "principled ", "knowledgeable" and "thinker". Discussing these attributes gave them a real life context of philosophy and ideology present in the poems of Allama Iqbal. In MYP and DP students explored the philosophy, political views and intellect of the great poet through his work and studied in depth the impact he had on shaping the identity of Muslims of the Subcontinent.
There was a Q & A session at the end to spark some interesting points of view and insights from our young learners.
The recitals, speeches and performances gave an opportunity to the students to gather on a platform and reflect upon the great influence of Allama Iqbal on the spiritual and political awakening of Muslims of the subcontinent paving the way for the birth of Islamic Republic of Pakistan.

Hybrid Learning Programme

Some glimpses of Hybrid Learning Programme in PYP @ LAI , where our students worked on strengthening their concepts in their Unit of Inquiry , Literacy, Urdu and Numeracy lessons . Our MYP students continued to work on their Design projects and enjoyed interactive Math lessons. Our learners are thoroughly enjoying their time on campus and making the most out of it in these uncertain times. Their smiles (behind the masks !) say it all .

PYP I & II - BACK TO SCHOOL

12th October was an exciting day in PYP where our bright young stars arrived in school, excited for their first on campus learning experience after the school building closure in March. Despite the unusual circumstances, there was a festive spirit in the air, where children met their friends for the first time in their new gorgeously decorated classrooms. Throughout the lessons, the children beamed at their classmates and teachers where various fun activities were conducted as part of Welcome Back to School.  PYP I and II excitedly spoke about their virtual learning time at home, with their teachers and shared their birthdays with each other. They discussed IB learner profile attributes in their UOI lessons and sang along happily in their Music class.
Through the fabulous colours of the walls and the graphics in the PYP block and the carefully planned lunch break and playtime, children skipped along the corridors and designated walkways enjoying their first day back in school.

INTERNATIONAL DAY OF AWARENESS OF FOOD LOSS AND WASTE

This year students in IB observed the International Day of Awareness of Food Loss and Waste. Since this happened to fall during these unusual times, that has brought about a global wake-up on the need to transform and rethink the balance of the way our food is produced and consumed.
Reducing food losses and waste is essential in a world where the number of people affected by hunger has been slowly on the rise since 2014, and tons and tons of edible food are lost and/or wasted every day. Food loss and waste also puts unnecessary pressure on the natural resource base and on the environment, depleting the natural resource base and generating greenhouse gases. Students in PYP discussed what it meant for people in different parts of the world to go without food and what can be done to resolve the issue. MYP and DP classes had interactive sessions about the importance of creating awareness regarding the food wastage.
Observance of international days like these correspond to an important component of learning in IB to take meaningful action. For the people. For the planet.

NUMBER GAMES IN PYP

The ability to use numbers and solve problems in real life context is what Numeracy is all about in PYP@LAI . Our young learners of PYP I engage in a number of activities to build number sense including videos, real world applications and interactive presentations, inquiring about and sharing ideas to build a comprehensive knowledge base.

CELEBRATING INTERNATIONAL DAY OF PEACE

Each year the International Day of Peace is observed around the world on 21 September. The UN General Assembly has declared this as a day devoted to strengthening the ideals of peace, through observing 24 hours of non-violence and cease-fire.
This year, it has been clearer than ever that we are not each other’s enemies. Rather, our common enemy is a tireless virus that threatens our health, security and very way of life. COVID-19 has thrown our world into turmoil and forcibly reminded us that what happens in one part of the planet can impact people everywhere. Learning Alliance International as an Educational Institution stands in solidarity with The United Nations in inviting all nations and people to honour a cessation of hostilities during the Day, and to otherwise commemorate the Day through education and public awareness on issues related to peace.
IB MYP & DP had talks and activities during their 'Hybrid Learning Plan' to learn and discuss how the International Day of Peace should be dedicated to fostering dialogue and collecting ideas. How we as a society need to stand together with the UN against attempts to promote discrimination or hatred. and how to celebrate this day by spreading compassion, kindness and hope in the face of the pandemic.
PYP V learnt about the International Day of Peace and why it is observed around the world on 21st of September every year.
Connecting back to their learning earlier during the UOI, the students looked at some quotes about Peace by Martin Luther King and discussed them for better understanding. PYP V also wrote their own "I Have a Dream" speeches to raise awareness about issues close to their heart in the present times. They also brainstormed ideas about peace keeping using the Jamboard.|
In Numeracy, students of PYP did numerical analysis of the text. Lesson started with the 'See-Think-Wonder' activity. Later they analyzed different texts on International Peace Day, practised the numerical information and made posters.

ECOSYSTEMS OF THE EARTH

In the first transdisciplinary theme, ’Who we are’ the students explored and unravelled the secrets of our planet’s multiple ecosystems, how the living and non-living things interact and studied about various possible food chains. To further elaborate on and collaborate with all these concepts, the students did a STEM project making a model premised upon a specific ecosystem, focusing on one abiotic factor from their chosen project and navigated the effects of that action. This interdisciplinary and applied approach to learning benefits our little inquirers and they are able to make connections to the real world outside their classrooms.

SELF DEVELOPMENT IN THE IB PRIMARY YEARS PROGRAMME

Focusing on the importance of a balanced lifestyle for physical and mental well-being, PYP II students have been building up on their prior knowledge about mindfulness, body organs as well as their functions for their first theme "Who we are." A "scattered minds" activity helped them emphasize on the importance of developing focus. They initiated an inquiry to make connections and understand how physical and mental health are dependent on each other with the heart and brain being the boss organs of the body systems. Students took keen interest in their discussions about how they perceive emotions and build strong bonds of friendship with one another as the concept of "empathy" and "positive mindset" were brought into the spotlight. They have thoroughly enjoyed word search grids, illusions, KWL charts, mind maps and Venn diagrams to brainstorm ideas thereby displaying the learner profile attributes "thinker" and "well-balanced". To grasp the idea behind "You are what you eat" students have been able to explore how diet plays an important role in having a balanced lifestyle as they elaborated on their understanding of food groups and nutrients having a substantial impact on health. To further their insight about well-being, students are looking at the bigger picture and applying their learning in the context of other living organisms-plants and animals.

Celebrating Defence Day - 6th September 2020

Defence Day, commemorates the sacrifices of our national armed forces during the attack on our country in the 1965 war. It is also a day to renew our pledge that we are a strong, proud nation, filled with a conviction to make our homeland a safer, better place for generations to come.
Keeping in view the historical perspective, PYP students discussed the concept of Identity and ‘Who We Are’, linking it to our beloved homeland and people who protect it - sometimes sacrificing their lives for it. Where PYP I and II delved into the Learner Profile Attributes, selecting the one that describes the love for their country ; PYP III , IV and V engaged in a Jamboard activity of what difference can they make in their daily routine that can show they care for their country. In the Math lesson, since the students are working on percentages and fractions, it was interesting to see them linking  their learning to History and the unfair distribution of military resources at the time of inception of Pakistan, understanding that whatever we lack in resources, we make up for it in the passion and zeal for our country, vowing to give it our best today, tomorrow and always.

NUMERACY In IB PYP

It is important that learners are able to make real life connections with practical applications of their learning. To that end, PYP I students compared cardinal and ordinal numbers in a final recap session to the topic "Positions". Activities like these, clarify concepts and allow the children to exhibit and reflect on their learning!

Mind-maps for IB PYP Learning

Mind mapping plays an integral part in PYP learning which helps learners visually organize information. Mind-map is built around a single concept and shows relationships among ideas as a whole. Students of PYP I engaged in a thought-provoking activity where they learnt about mind-maps and later used it as a tool to respond to the prompt of "Who We Are", which is their first transdisciplinary theme, with some great ideas!

Getting to be an IB Learner in PYP

Beginning of the year has always been an exciting affair at Learning Alliance International. A time where students meet their teachers, friends and get their hands on their new books and notebooks, all excited and looking forward to a happening year ahead. Although Covid 19 altered many plans and programmes, the feeling of starting a new academic year on a positive note did not change. In PYP V, the students discussed Approaches to Learning and IB Learner Profile attributes as part of the initial learning agreements in the beginning of the year. The animated Google Slides and Jamboards formed an interactive space for children to come together and work towards the formulation of Learning Goals for themselves. It was an interesting experience to witness our students speaking about what it means to be Reflective, Caring, Communicator and Balanced learners to thrive in a rapidly evolving world.

14th AUGUST - CELEBRATING PAKISTAN

73 years ago, at the stroke of midnight on August 14, 1947, Pakistan became a self-ruling nation. "Land of the Pure" is celebrated all over the globe on this day, commemorating the efforts and the vision of the leaders and the resolve of the people. Keeping up with the traditions, green and white was the colour seen everywhere in IB @ LAI today, from the jubilant faces of our learners in PYP, with the little flags painted and waving, to the fabulous backdrops visible in our virtual classrooms. The strings of twinkling lights, balloons and little flags were hand held by our younger students while our students in MYP and DP spoke about what it means to be a Pakistani. After a celebratory start of the day with the National Anthem and recitation, there were documentaries about the magical northern areas, interactive Jamboards and exciting conversations including colourful posters and measurement of the dimensions of the flag - speaking about what Green and White stand for. The festive atmosphere was thoroughly enjoyed by the teachers and students alike and everyone had something to say about the love of their country, whether it involved virtual colourful post-its on the online forums to singing along of patriotic songs .The colors represent peace and prosperity, but to most celebrants they signify pride to be a part of a resilient and strong nation, ready to take its place in the forefront of the globe.

CONGRATULATIONS!

We are proud to announce that Fatemah Saad of PYP IV has been selected as a Jury Member in the 12th Lahore International Children's Film Festival 2020. Fatemah will be one of the jury members from 5 countries in three different age groups and will select winner films from 158 films from 24 countries in 16 languages and different categories of the Festival.

The film festival will also showcase various discussion forums and workshops and the panel of jurists will comprise young children and prominent movie makers. Being a part of an international committee with a diverse group of children, is indeed a challenge and an honour at the same time. We hope that this is going to be the first step in a series of achievements ahead.

Way to go Fatemah!

NEW BEGINNINGS - IB ORIENTATION & WELCOME BACK PARTY

Beginning of the school year is marked with vibrance and wonderful colours exuded by the bright and shiny welcome notes and book packs tied with ribbons and name tags. IB @ LAI  (PYP, MYP & DP) had its Orientation with the students and books pack collection held on the 5th and 6th of August, where teachers met the students in a virtual class and parents collected the book packs from the school building. A virtual Welcome Back Party for all the new students in their brand new grade levels was held on 7th of August, where students and teachers after getting to know each other on Orientation Day, interacted on online platforms, playing games and having fun filled ice breaker activities. The students introduced themselves and got to know their new friends and facilitators through various ingenious games and activities designed by the Homeroom and Subject teachers. The spirits were high and the environment all around was festive, despite the unusual nature of the circumstances surrounding a very non-traditional beginning to a new school year. As the Distance Learning Programme is set to resume with its standard protocols on the 10th of August, we wish our students and the entire school community a wholesome start to a new and exciting year ahead.

Annual Exhibition – A Virtual SharingOne of the hallmarks of learning at the Primary Years Programme is the PYP Exhibition - the culmination of students' journey of five years before they move into the Middle Years Programme. This unique opportunity gives our students the exposure to explore and research topics under various transdisciplinary themes and to present their work on a platform for the school and IB community both locally and internationally.

This year due to the unprecedented circumstances of the school building closure, Learning Alliance International moved forward to join the rest of the IB World Schools across the globe for a virtual exhibition. This move however, in no way, diminished the spirit of our stars who continued with the preparation and research along with their mentors and facilitators to present their range of learning on a virtual platform.

After months of hard work, students showcased their learning through an array of various displays that reflected their thorough research and insight into the chosen topics of Refugee Crisis, Sustainability of Resources, Contamination and Purity of Environment, Natural Habitat, and Endangered Species. The highlight of the event was the confidence with which our young learners answered questions in the Q and A session at the end of the exhibition.

The event was well attended by the students, faculty, parents, and visitors from the international schools and IB community. Everyone thoroughly enjoyed the exchange of information with the PYP V students, who are going to move on to MYP and dazzle the world with their thought-provoking ideas for a brilliant future.

Math Reflections & International Olympics Council Day 2020

The term "Reflection" stands for a time when we pause and think about why things happen the way they do - it is used as an essential skill in International Baccalaureate by students to think of what they know and how to move forward and get better. "Reflection" completes the Cycle of Inquiry and this is what took place in PYP virtual classrooms this week at the tail end of our transdisciplinary theme "Sharing the Planet", while MYP and DP students undertook their final exams. The process of reviewing concepts continued in Literacy, Numeracy, Urdu and UOI lessons while PSPE lessons had students talking about the establishment of the International Olympic Committee and its foundation charter. Across different class levels, See. Think. Wonder activities revolved around Reflection, sparking discussions, and challenging our learners to extend their thinking to a higher order of metacognition.

DISTANCE LEARNING PROGRAMME @ LEARNING ALLIANCE INTERNATIONAL
WEEK 2

This week the virtual classrooms of DLP@LAI were abuzz with the discussions on Human Rights, Non Violence and Rights of the Children, in light of the World Day against Child Labour , where students looked at the various factors that push families to engage their underage children to toil under extremely hazardous circumstances, negating their right to safety and education among others. Students in PYP and MYP also talked about World Change Makers; qualities of great leaders and their struggle to propagate peace and "Ahimsa" in the world. The myriad of themes involved Patterns in Nature in Visual Art and Patterns in a Story in Literacy classrooms along with the concept of Supply, Demand and Factors influencing economic development of countries. Since the PYP is working under the transdisciplinary theme, Sharing the Planet, Conservation remains a binding concept for many class presentations and discussions.

The DLP@ LAI with its range of various concepts brings together an interesting mix of ideas, which is surely refreshing to witness across different grade levels in these interesting times.

June Distance Learning Programme Week 2

The Distance Learning Programme @ LAI is in full swing with our commitment to provide a high-quality learning experience for our students. The virtual classrooms remain a hub of scintillating interactions between our eager students and fully trained teachers. This week was about finding out the Central Idea of Poems in Urdu and Vincent Van Gogh's artistic wonders in their art classes. While our DP students discussed HL and SL courses, MYP and PYP lessons revolved around clarification of concepts involving Types of Sentences, States of Matter, Fractions and Shapes. It is indeed fantastic to witness the energy with which our young learners communicate their thoughts and ideas, trying to grasp the sense of a rapidly evolving world around them.

World Environment Day
“The greatest threat to our planet is the belief that someone else will save it.”

Robert Swan

World Environment Day is celebrated every year for environmental action on June 5, to engage governments, businesses and citizens to focus their efforts on a pressing environmental issue.

This year, the theme, biodiversity took center stage in all virtual classrooms at Learning Alliance International. Recent events, from bushfires in Brazil, the United States, and Australia to locust infestations across East Africa all the way to Pakistan – and now, a global disease pandemic were discussed by the MYP and DP students; Google meet sessions became the platform where they expressed their opinions about the ways and means to spread awareness regarding the concerns facing us as a human race.

PYP with its transdisciplinary approach, dabbled in the topic through whole numbers and decimals in Mathematics, Recycling in the Unit of Inquiry, Animal and Plants life cycle in Science, and Summarizing the where and how of Ecosystems in Literacy. Since PYP is brushing up on its concepts under the theme “Sharing the Planet”, students were already studying renewable energy and conservation in their different subject groups. The theme brought together an invigorating thought process across different grade levels, where threats to plants, animals and even marine life were discussed. It was insightful to witness our learners gathering their thoughts and ideas together to decipher the message Nature is sending us.

DISTANCE LEARNING PROGRAMME - JUNE 2020
“When the untapped potential of a student meets the liberating art of a teacher, a miracle unfolds.”
– Mary Hatwood Futrell

JUNE DLP DAY 1

The Distance Learning Programme at LAI resumed after a month long Summer Break, as students excitedly returned to their classrooms before transitioning to their next grade levels. The teachers welcomed the students with interesting plans for their Google Meet sessions and the children enthusiastically told stories about their summers - It was interesting to see the varied and colourful interactions between the teachers and students through the use of Jamboards, Padlets, interactive white boards and informative videos. The students enjoyed their Unit of Inquiry lessons focusing on ATL skills and the activities involving Gymnastics, Public Speaking and Visual Arts.

Through the use of a carefully planned and coherent curriculum DLP at Learning Alliance International continues to provide an interactive and effective platform in these unusual times. This structure and planning was visible in all the classrooms today as the teachers and the young learners engaged in an invigorating experience of sharing and learning about the various concepts together.

Newsletter

Our entire PYP, MYP and DP staff at Learning Alliance International has done an amazing job!! They made a seamless transition to remote leaning in just a couple of days!! Incredible passion, dedication and commitment!! They did not leave our IB students alone in these trying times!! Highlights of LAI Distance Learning Program: Newsletter

RAMZAN KAREEM - MONTH OF MERCY AND BLESSINGS

Ramzan as a month of intense prayer and dawn-to-dusk fasting aims to bring us closer to God. However, more importantly the message of Ramzan is the spirit of charity and brotherhood. This is precisely what was witnessed during the online lessons of our IB PYP where students spoke about how it teaches us to be balanced, caring, principled, open minded and reflective. The conversation starters about the teachings of Ramzan had our young learners think and express themselves about what does it really mean to be a good Muslim especially during this holy month. Children spoke about helping the poor and needy and most importantly to practise patience - a virtue that is desperately desired during the current scenario. Students also discussed what fasting means to them and vowed to let this special month be marked with the essence of generosity to bring the people closer spiritually in these times of isolation.

INVESTIGATIONS AND REFLECTIONS: PYP II'S LEARNING JOURNEY ON 'MATTER'

Investigation and Reflection go hand in hand during the Unit of Inquiry lessons in Primary Years Programme. The Google Meet sessions during the DLP were no different as PYP II students effectively demonstrated their understanding of ‘Matter’ through action-based learning.
Students investigated about matter and its properties, states of matter and changes in matter during their Google Meet sessions leading to activities that exhibited learning in real-life context.
Posters were made to illustrate arrangement of particles in different states of matter: solid, liquid and gas and students used different types of materials to show how particles are spread out. The outcome was a splendid inquiry thoroughly enjoyed by our little learners.

FRACTIONS HAVE NEVER BEEN SO MUCH FUN!

Our IB PYP IV had a delicious and exciting adventure in their online Math lesson as they baked delectable items to understand the concept of 'Fractions'. A baking project was assigned to them so that they can apply their classroom knowledge to the real-life situation and well ... get a tasty treat, too at the end of their efforts! Since, learning in the IB PYP is a holistic transdisciplinary experience that integrates socio-emotional, physical, and cognitive development, therefore, in our PYP classrooms, it takes place in dynamic environments that promote play, discovery and exploration. This was witnessed in this virtual classroom, where Math and Life Skills were integrated to form a wholesome learning experience. Here are some of the highlights of the action-packed baking delights in the form of a Numeracy bulletin on Fractions!!

Distance Learning Programme

If there was ever a time in which the phrase 'taking the learning beyond the classroom' was more relatable, this is it. And if there was ever a time, where teachers went over and beyond to assist the children in learning, this has been it. While the world has come to a standstill following the COVID 19, the school closure has given our learning community an opportunity to organise and express themselves in ways that are non-traditional, challenging but certainly rewarding. IB Distance Learning Programme was put into place as a result of hard work and dedication of teachers and administration to minimise the effect of unprecedented situation affecting millions around the globe. The online curriculum was whetted, and teacher trainings took place over the course of the days during which every aspect of regular teaching in the classroom was discussed and simulated.
DLP @ Learning Alliance International (IB) was put into active practice and regular classes using online platforms were organised. The students and teachers on a virtual platform thoroughly enjoyed each other’s company and worked together to develop a seamless fluent communication with each other through Google Classrooms and Google Meet. This high-octane energy was witnessed by the parents as well who became their children's learning companions. As the weeks are progressing, we, as a school community, are joining hands together with our students and parents to become lifelong learners, even in these extraordinary times; striving to emerge, more powerful and better equipped with new skills set in a new, more resilient world, hopeful in the power of the human spirit.

A TRIBUTE TO DR. ALLAMA MUHAMMAD IQBAL - POET OF THE EAST

“It is the nature of the self to manifest itself
In every atom slumbers the might of the self.”   - Allama Iqbal

PYP celebrated Iqbal Day on 9^th November, with utmost zeal and gusto, to commemorate the life and vision of Dr. Allama Muhammad Iqbal, ‘Poet of the East’.

Iqbal's philosophy and vision had been discussed in class in the weeks preceding the performance and teachers as well as students were thoroughly involved in the process. Iqbal's writings especially with reference to his poems with a message for children was a favourite topic in class discussions.
PYP I & II had a short assembly where they spoke about the vision and philosophy of Iqbal in the form of an interesting presentation.
Students performed a role play on Iqbal's famous poems, ‘Humdardi’ and ‘Makra aur Makhi’. Their short skits were well prepared and thoroughly enjoyed by the audience.
The highlight of the event was when our students spoke about the poet with reference to IB learner profile attributes like ‘principled ‘, ‘knowledgeable’ and ‘thinker’. Discussing these attributes gave them a real-life context of philosophy and ideology present in the poems of Allama Iqbal. The assembly ended with the poems of Iqbal sung by our students with zeal and fervor and in the loud applause of the audience.
The recitals and performances gave an opportunity to the students of PYP to gather on a platform and reflect upon the great influence of Dr. Allama Iqbal on the spiritual and political awakening of the Muslims of the subcontinent paving the way for the birth of Islamic Republic of Pakistan.

NEW BEGINNINGS in IB@LAI

Students of IB@LAI commenced the new academic year with a range of engaging activities aimed at developing their mental focus and energizing and immersing them in the framework of student centered learning. Students started their first day with the usual gusto through various mindfulness and physical activities. These self-management skills in the Approaches to Learning (ATL) skill framework works on enhancing the discipline and reflection in students.
In PYP, students took a round of the PYP block, with the new students familiarizing themselves with the sights and sounds and the administrative block. Taekwondo, Gymnastics, Life Skills, Kathak, Yoga and Music lessons made learning and orientation a fun experience. The entire first week, overall, kept the students captivated with a creative introduction and recapping of IB concepts such as Learner Profile, Command terms, Key and related concepts, global contexts etc. through games such as Missing numbers and alphabets, Pictionary, Scrabble and multiple other competitive team activities, allowing students to socialize and foster healthy collaboration with each other.
In MYP there was an activity revolved around the symbolic analogy of a glass jar of water and glitter to the human mind, cluttered with thoughts. Following this, a one minute meditation routine was also conducted in selected classes. The Science classes conducted in laboratory along with activities in Yoga, Performing and Visual Arts captivated the students and made them connect their learning to real life.
Students in Diploma Programme with the subjects of their choice including but not limited to Film, Business Management, Sciences and much more, were introduced to different career pathways. An interesting activity was the Rubik’s Cube, the solution of which requires memorization and spatial reasoning skills.
Throughout the first two weeks of new academic session, the IB block was an interesting place where new learning pathways were discovered and thoroughly enjoyed by the students.

For The Love Of The Game

Learning Alliance International organized friendly football and basketball matches with TNS Beaconhouse, on October 16, 2019, in the spirit of World Peace Day. Both schools performed exceptionally well and formed lasting ties of comradery. Following were the results of all the matches:

The event was hosted by LAI DP students as a part of their CAS programme objectives. Students designed, organized and executed the proceedings seamlessly. Three cheers for a very successful event!

Tis the Season of Books & Dreams
"A book is a dream you hold in your hands". —Neil Gaiman

Reading Week 2020 kicked off with the all time favourite Haiku where PYP students wrote poems about their favourite book and characters. Poems in the Pockets had students sharing an "on the spot" poems with their friends. The corridors of the PYP block were interestingly decked up with reminders and announcements of activities. PYP library became the hub of stories and read aloud sessions with the Literacy and the Homeroom teachers. The classrooms were abuzz with Fractured Fairytales, where students discussed popular fairy tales - an exercise that gave a free rein to their imagination and critical thinking and "Kahanian" in Urdu - stories followed by interesting Questions and Answers. Creativity was at its peak when PYP students made beautiful bookmarks. Fictional Postcard included children writing to their favourite book card about why they like them and read aloud sessions in the classes. Reading Week also presents a fun opportunity for our parents and grandparents to interact with the children in the classroom setting as Storytellers - hence the Storytelling with Parents/Grandparents saw children giggling and smiling when parents and grandparents popped in for an interactive reading activity.
The weeklong hustle and bustle's highlight was a colourful and vibrant Book Parade. Our excited PYP students dressed up as magnificent characters of their choice and with their enchanting paraphernalia, walked around the corridors of Learning Alliance International to the loud applause and cheers of the whole school.

Learning to Count on Math

Competitions, classroom activities, floor games, puzzles, online math mania games are just some of the ways a school can celebrate a subject like Math. Across the school there are many opportunities available to get out and about with Mathematics. It’s more than a subject with numbers. Real life applications of the concepts taught in the classroom make Math an integral part of our education. On the 19th of November 2019 Learning Alliance International hosted Math Trivia for PYP I and II. The students had been preparing for it for a few weeks and the excitement in the air was infectious.
Real life applications help us understand the concepts of Mathematics. Students solved time, addition, subtraction, place value direct application and critical things problems.
The best way to learn is through visual understanding. Lots of shapes, measurements, angles, directions related questions were solved and taught by students of PYP IV & V.
'Let’s Collect the Data' was an activity which involved assembling bar graphs. It applied group work, coordination between students by measuring each other’s heights. After the collection of data, many differentiated inquiries were raised and answered.
A small world of Math was created for the students to enjoy and celebrate the subject. They solved many basic arithmetic questions and critical real life word problems. The students collected their own data, recorded observations and solved mathematical problems in a stimulating environment of Learning Alliance International. PYP students created a comfortable and fun environment by stating interesting facts about Math. A lot of skills were put to the test during Math Trivia and many strategic online games were played.
Math Trivia turned out to be an engaging experience for both children and parents, where a traditionally dry subject proved to be an amazing learning journey.

International Kangaroo Science Contest Winners

Children are curious by nature and science activities are the best way to nurture their curiosity and help them explore and understand the world around them. Kangaroo Science Contest has an international character and it serves as a concrete step towards research training for all school children. This year children from over 70 countries spread across the world participated in IKSC. Students from Faisalabad campus and IB PYP students from Lahore, participated in the International Kangaroo Science Contest held on 26th September 2019.
The categories under which they took part in the contest were Pre Ecolier, Ecolier and Benjamin level. The combined effort of both students and teachers proved worthwhile, as some students were able to win a few medals and others received IKSC star badges, certificates and souvenirs.

Medal Winners:

Faisalabad Campus

PYP

Mir Temur          PYP II-b     Bronze Medal

Fatemah Saad   PYP III-a     Bronze Medal

Syed M. Abbas  PYP III-a     Bronze Medal

Azeela Asgher   PYP IV-c     Bronze Medal

Yahya Ghazi Ali  PYP V-a     Bronze Medal

Three cheers for our young students who ventured forward and accepted the Science challenge emerging as our shining little stars!

International Earth Day

International Earth Day is observed globally each year on the 22nd of April; however, the Earth Day 2020 is no more the same what it has been over the past so many years!! Now, it is a time to hold hands digitally with people all around the globe and rise up in a united call for the creativity, innovation, ambition, and bravery that we need, to meet our climate crisis and seize the enormous opportunities of a zero-carbon future.
Learning Alliance International along with its students and teachers celebrated the Earth Day 2020, with an unusual zeal and vigour. In their DLP Literacy class, they reviewed their concept of Figurative Language while talking about how they can help protect and care for our planet. In their Numeracy online class, the concept of Recycling was revisited during the problem solving , whereas in Visual Art, it was about how little things can make a big difference, inspired from the story of 'The Dot'. In MYP and DP, there were discussions on the concept of environmental degradation and Citizenship along with the responsibility that comes with it. There was a unanimous agreement that Climate change represents the biggest challenge to the future of humanity and the life-support systems that make our world habitable.
It is interesting to note that learning in IB takes place on different levels of generating Inquiry, Reflection and then undertaking Action; this time around on Earth Day, the IB community at LAI, vowed to flood the digital landscape with hope, optimism and action, joining the global conversations on saving our planet.

Community Outreach

Our PYP I's last assignment for their UOI under Distance Learning Programme was to create a campaign of messages for their community through team work as a reflection of our central idea: "Members of a community work together to reach a common goal". The messages hint at the current covid 19 situation prevailing as a global crisis. Students wrote heartfelt notes for the frontline workers instrumental in the fight against pandemic.
It is only through collaboration and teamwork that we can thrive and achieve our objectives. Being a part of a global community is a hallmark of learning in IB and the spirit of international mindedness permeated through the artistic expressions of our PYP I learners.

International Women’s Day

International Women’s Day is being observed worldwide to acknowledge the outstanding contributions by women in different fields across the globe with the theme “I am Generation Equality: Realizing Women’s Rights”.
The United Nations first celebrated International Women’s Day during International Women’s Year in 1975. By 1977, the UN and its member states declared March 8 as an official day for women’s rights and world peace. In her statement for International Women’s Day, UN Women Executive Director Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka highlighted 2020 as the year for gender equality and calls on everyone to tackle the persistent barriers against gender equality.
“We don’t have an equal world at the moment and women are angry and concerned about the future”, she said. “They are radically impatient for change. It’s an impatience that runs deep, and it has been brewing for years”.
Just like every special occasion, IB @ LAI celebrated International Women’s Day with much fervor. To mark the day that represents both the history and the significance it has for women across generations, a panel discussion and debate on the topic was held with the MYP and DP students. The students actively participated and expressed their views on 'Gender Roles' observed in our society, the 'Aurat March' and the status of women in our religion & Pakistan; which was a treat to observe. The PYP students held interactive sessions with their homeroom teachers, making posters, watching informative videos and sharing their opinions about the most inspiring women in their life.
As today’s women stand on the shoulders of those who have fought and made sacrifices in the generations past, they likewise carry the legacy of the movement forward. Here’s to the women across industries, sectors, nations, ages and cultures, who persist tirelessly to take charge together - paving the way for future generations to come.

IB - Information Session and Teacher Training Workshops
with
Helen Barrett and Malcolm Nicolson

We, at Learning Alliance International continue to strive for excellence and provide the best quality experience for our students, parent body and faculty. In this spirit Learning Alliance held an information session conducted by seasoned educators, Ms. Helen Barrett and Mr. Malcom Nicolson, for our Learning Alliance International parent body and their guests on Thursday, 5th March 2020 from 9:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. in the Learning Alliance DHA Amphitheater. This was targeted towards two types of audience; our existing PYP, MYP and DP parents who wanted to know more about the scope of IB education in Pakistan and the rest of the world with special emphasis on University placements after MYP V and DP. This session also aimed to address the potential IB parent body who is in the process of deciding about their child’s future learning pathways as parents from other branches of Learning Alliance which run CAIE O and A level programmes were also invited.
Helen Barrett is the Director of On Route Education, an educational consultancy company that provides complete support to schools around the world implementing IB programmes. Helen joined the International Baccalaureate in the Hague as Head of PYP Development where she initiated and directed the successful review of the PYP. Malcolm Nicolson is the Director of Erimus Education, an educational consultancy company that also specialises in providing bespoke support for schools around the world implementing IB programmes. Malcolm started working for the IB in Cardiff and the Hague. He was Head of MYP Development from 2007 - 2013 and initiated and directed the first ever review of an IB programme, MYP: the next chapter. After successfully revising the MYP he became Head of DP Development from 2013 -2015, where he introduced DP Approaches to Teaching and Learning (ATLs).
Later on, training workshops were held for the PYP faculty by Ms Helen Barrett, and for MYP and DP faculty by Mr Malcolm Nicolson, where they worked with the PYP teachers on Assessment, Inquiry and Agency, MYP teachers on Approaches to Learning and Developing e-Portfolios & Personal Projects and DP teachers on Internal Assessments and Incorporating Approaches to Learning in the curriculum.
The day ended with both the parents and the entire International Baccalaureate faculty leaving with updated information and knowledge about the IB programme.
Continuous Professional Development is what makes the learning and teaching in IB unique from the usual way it is conducted otherwise. We believe in lifelong learning and this is manifested through the carefully orchestrated Master Training Sessions which prove to have great takeaways for everyone.

Field Trip to Green Fields Country Club (PYP IV - V)

“Wherever you go, go with all your heart” – Confucius

It was with this spirit that students of PYP IV and V went on their Field Trip to the Green Fields Country Club on 25th February 2020. Located at a distance of roughly 80 kilometres on the outskirts of the city, it provided a perfect location for students to enjoy a pleasant spring day, outdoors with their friends. They were enthralled with the scenic beauty and the green fields for games of Cricket, Football and Badminton. Horse Riding was a hot favourite where the students took turns, under supervision to trot along on the horses.
They were fascinated by the indoor games including Rock Climbing and Riding the Bull had everyone queuing up to take their turns, eventually tumbling down in fits of laughter. Field trips are an excellent way to build up repertoire among students and is an important exercise for team building skills. At the end of a fun day, doing what they love best, the students, though tired were still excited and not willing to come back.
The field trip to Green Fields Country Club provided a much-awaited day out for the PYP students along with a recreational learning experience witnessing the beauty of nature up close, leaving an everlasting impact and countless new memories.

A Trip To The Land of Puppets (PYP I - III)

“The marvelous thrill of puppetry is that puppets by their very nature do things that are not humanly possible. This allows for the imagination to explore countless different possibilities” – David Logan

Puppets have been used since the earliest times to animate and communicate the ideas and needs of human societies. They have been part of ceremonies, rituals and carnivals and have their name rooted as “Kathputli” used by the people of Rajasthan.
PYP I-III undertook a trip to Rafi Peer Theatre on 19th February as part of the theme "How We Express Ourselves" and witnessed first hand the magical art of storytelling through puppets and shadow figures. The trip included a vibrant gymnastics performance where the acrobat balanced himself on trays and rolling cans. The Magic Show drew loud cheers by our students followed by the walk through the Puppet Museum - first of its kind in South Asia.
The students were fascinated by the puppets from different countries clad in their traditional costumes and concluded with an experience of Urdu oracy session by Tasneem Peerzada. The students had their lunch under the colourful streamers and lanterns of the cafeteria at the venue and left for the school with countless memories of a first ever trip to the Land of Puppets.

PYP OLYMPICS 2020

“Persistence can change failure into extraordinary achievement.” – Marv Levy

Sports constitute a major part of the academically challenging and dynamic Primary Years Program. The outdoors is explored for increased concentration, enhanced memory, stimulated creativity, and problem-solving skills. Learning and collaboration beyond the four walls of the classroom is a hallmark of PYP @LAI. PYP Olympics held between 10th and 14th of February 2020 was an embodiment of the values and Learner Profile attributes of International Baccalaureate Programme.
The week long Sports in a beautiful setting with fantastic displays of Zumba and Gymnastics Display including Cart wheels, Dive roles and Pyramids were thoroughly enjoyed by the students as well as the parents in attendance. The loud drum beat and thumping of students’ feet on the ground for a disciplined Parade set the rhythm for the event, followed by an oath-taking ceremony. The colourful hand held streamers enhanced the lively and well curated performances.
Following the cheering and encouragement for the young athletes from the audience as well as fellow students, the races including Tunnel race , Ball in the bucket, Pyramid , Hoola Hoops race drew a loud applause from the crowd. Ball in the hoop and Foot on the paper race involved amazing displays of dexterity by our young learners. Warmed up by the races, the students proceeded to an invigorating football match, followed by the Taekwondo performance, which included Tile breaking, both wood & marble and an astounding demonstration of Nunchucks, which is a traditional Okinawan martial arts weapon.
The event concluded with the prize distribution ceremony with the proud winners taking their medals home . It was great to witness the sophistication and ease with which the students conducted themselves through these highly challenging moves. The colourful balloons and an attractive backdrop along with the lively commentary added up to the festive spirit of these events with the colourful ambiance and beautiful weather leaving everyone energized.

INTER SCHOOL JUNIOR GAMES AT TNS GULBERG CAMPUS

“Never say never because limits, like fears, are often just an illusion.” – Michael Jordan

Due to its vast reach, unparalleled popularity and foundation of positive values, sports aredefinitely one of the greatest things man has ever created. It’s also a powerful tool that breaks down all the barriers and helps us feel good about ourselves, both physically and mentally. It fosters interpersonal relationships among peers and is a great activity to learn important lessons applicable to all aspects of life.
PYP I, II and III students were invited for friendly matches at TNS Gulberg, where they played, Dodgeball, Handball and Football respectively with the host students. The energy and the spirit were infectious and everyone including the audience and the staff enjoyed the skill and dexterity with which our players tackled their opponents. They came back with beaming smiles and golden trophies, lauded for their effort and sportsman spirit.
Through the comprehensive Sports programme at PYP@LAI children develop physical skills, exercise, make new friends, learn to be a team member, learn about play fair and most importantly boost their self-esteem and confidence, which are the building blocks for a wholesome and successful life.

IB @ LAHORE DISTRICT JUNIOR QUALIFYING CHESS CHAMPIONSHIP 2019

Learning Alliance International encourages students to excel in co-curricular activities. We regularly engage our students in activities that sharpen their minds and develop confidence.
International Baccalaureate, Primary Years Programme and Middle Years Programme’s chess players participated in the Lahore District Junior Qualifying Chess Championship 2019 on Sunday, 15th September 2o19. The event was organized by "Pakistan Strength and Conditioning Association"
Our chess players competed with some of the best chess players in Lahore and bagged the following positions:
First Position in Under 12 Category: Saad Hussain, MYP II
Second Position in Under 10 Category: Ahmed Moeed Yusuf, PYP V
Way to go, boys!

IB World Schools Manager visits LAI

IB Worlds School Manager, Mr. Clarke Stroupe visited Learning Alliance International on Tuesday, September 24, 2019.

Mr. Clarke toured the campus and met with the faculty and administration of all three departments: PYP, MYP and DP. He recognized the commendable efforts and the seamless implementation of all three IB Programmes and the IB philosophy by Learning Alliance International.

During his visit, he engaged with our learners and was amazed by their quick-witted responses to his questions. A normal day at IB LAI consists of different activities conducted during and around the lessons focused on building skills.

At home time, Mr. Clarke also had a chance to meet with some of our active parents who greeted him and provided him with positive feedback regarding LAI.

The Nation's Pride

Defence Day is celebrated in Pakistan every year on 6th September, as a national day to commemorate the sacrifices made by Pakistani soldiers in defending its borders in the war of 1965.
IB@Learning Alliance International observed Defence Day with an assembly in the amphitheater where they spoke about what it means to be a proud Pakistani and the sacrifices of the soldiers for the love of their homeland in the line of duty.
PYP started off with their heartfelt speeches about how it’s important to stand with the soldiers and Pakistan army, while at the same time understanding the importance of global peace. Students of MYP spoke about the current state of affairs in Kashmir and the significance of solidarity with the soldiers and the sanctity of borders as India continues to oppress the basic human right of freedom for Kashmiris. DP students expressed their opinion about how war is never a solution but it’s imperative to have an ever vigilant army to defend the borders against any unwarranted hostile situations.
The highlight of the event was when our little learners from PYP spoke impromptu about their feelings for their homeland. There was a cheer from the crowd and everyone present, when the little voices expressed their views confidently.
Throughout the day, the spirit of patriotism was prevalent in school, with the colourful displays, handwritten messages to the armed forces, posters and relevant videos where everyone stood proud to be a part of a progressive nation.

NEW BEGINNINGS in IB@LAI

Students of IB@LAI commenced the new academic year with a range of engaging activities aimed at developing their mental focus and energizing and immersing them in the framework of student centered learning. Students started their first day with the usual gusto through various mindfulness and physical activities. These self-management skills in the Approaches to Learning (ATL) skill framework works on enhancing the discipline and reflection in students.

In PYP, students took a round of the PYP block, with the new students familiarizing themselves with the sights and sounds and the administrative block. Taekwondo, Gymnastics, Life Skills, Kathak, Yoga and Music lessons made learning and orientation a fun experience. The entire first week, overall, kept the students captivated with a creative introduction and recapping of IB concepts such as Learner Profile, Command terms, Key and related concepts, global contexts etc. through games such as Missing numbers and alphabets, Pictionary, Scrabble and multiple other competitive team activities, allowing students to socialize and foster healthy collaboration with each other.

In MYP there was an activity revolved around the symbolic analogy of a glass jar of water and glitter to the human mind, cluttered with thoughts. Following this, a one minute meditation routine was also conducted in selected classes. The Science classes conducted in laboratory along with activities in Yoga, Performing and Visual Arts captivated the students and made them connect their learning to real life.

Students in Diploma Programme with the subjects of their choice including but not limited to Film, Business Management, Sciences and much more, were introduced to different career pathways. An interesting activity was the Rubik’s Cube, the solution of which requires memorization and spatial reasoning skills.

Throughout the first two weeks of new academic session, the IB block was an interesting place where new learning pathways were discovered and thoroughly enjoyed by the students.

IB - PYP I & II - SWIMMING GALA

“Believe in yourself, not only in swimming, but in life itself. You always have to have fun. You have to have an open mind”.
Debbie Meyer
PYP I & II held a swimming gala on 30th of September and 1st of October, 2019. As a sport and also as a life skills activity, swimming offers a chance to become involved in a sport whether as an individual or as part of a team. Children learn the importance of practice, discipline, and teamwork which they can take with them throughout life and apply even in other situations.
PYP mothers were also a part of the Swimming Gala and enjoyed the festive atmosphere along with the children. There were balloons and colourful ribbons and streamers; blue waters and swimming boards and happy children who swam away and did fun activities under the watchful eye of the swimming instructors and lifeguards.
It was a joyful hour spent at the pool with friends and loved ones and a great learning experience for PYP swimmers.

All about the Dough

The start of the week was a joyous surprise for the PYP I students as they had their first kitchen activity. They put on their aprons and caps and off they went to the school kitchen for making the cupcakes and baking their own mini pizzas.
The whole activity was conducted and supervised by Ms. Muneeze Khalid and thoroughly enjoyed by our PYP students. Ms. Muneeze Khalid is a culinary prodigy who received the Food Preneur of the year award at Laurels of Honour Award (2019) held by Governor of Punjab and the Women Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Lahore.
They decorated the cupcakes with sprinkles and colourful icing and strewed cheese cuttings on the mini pizzas.The aroma of cheese wafted through the entire kitchen as our little chefs waited up with smiles for the delicious goodies. The cupcake decoration was a delight with scoops of nutella and the delicious creamy filling gorgeously done with edible beads and sprinkles.
With their cupcakes decorated and mini pizzas safely packed in customised boxes, PYP I gathered around their homeroom teachers and Ms. Muneeze Khalid to receive certificates for their effort and the team building skills.

Mindfulness in PYP

Mindfulness activities play an important part in PYP curriculum both in instruction and assessment level. From the very beginning, PYP learners analyse the importance of mindfulness in making informed choices. These activities are a prerequisite for the learning journey and play an important role in the current Transdisciplinary Theme "Who We Are". PYP I made Mindfulness Journals about a healthy and balanced lifestyle that they have been studying during this theme. There were invigorating discussions around the class regarding Mindfulness in daily lives and awareness regarding self.

It was a pleasure watching the enthusiasm of these young individuals who not only spoke about the concept but also created interesting points, entering them in their booklets, displayed in classrooms.

Learning Alliance International Professional Development (PD) Workshop

Learning Alliance International is committed towards developing knowledge and intellectual growth of its teachers as well as of its students. In this regard, a professional development (PD) workshop was conducted on 21st September, 2019, for members of the PYP faculty entitled: “Making the PYP Happen, Implementing Agency.”
The workshop was divided into two sessions and included the following topics:
• Collaboration
• The Learner Profile
• Transdisciplinary Themes
• Concept driven Learning
• The Inquiry Process
• Student Agency and Action
• Assessment
• The planning process and role of the planner
The objectives of the workshop included:
• Situating learning in local and global contexts supports students’ understanding of human commonalities
• Transdisciplinary Learning Design deepens students' understanding of complex ideas
• Collaborative relationships support well-being of the students
• Diverse ways of knowing, doing and thinking are supported by well-designed learning environments
The session ended on a an extremely productive note followed by an interactive Question and Answer session.

IB PYP & MYP – ArtBeat Results 2018

Announcing the results of ‘ArtBeat – National Child Art Competition and Exhibitions’ for which the theme was, ‘My Likes, My Dream, My City, My Village’

The students exhibited their ideas and creativity using mediums such as oil pastels, colour pencils, dry pastels and water colours. Following the theme, they made drawings showcasing the different interesting aspects of their life like their city, their pets or anything else which was special to them.

The proud recipients of Prize of Honor are Jehan Saif Rehman of PYP II-b, Syed Ammar Bukhari of PYP III-a, Simal Majeed of MYP III and Zoya Ali Waqas of MYP II. Their artworks are going to be exhibited at NCA, Lahore on the 16th and 17th of February, 2018.

The jury has also decided to give Artbeat Special Award for which they have selected Anaya Mehboob of PYP V, Inaaya Asad Ghauri of PYP II-a,Maha Malik & Mahnoor Fatima Aamir of MYP III.

PYP OLYMPICS

PYP at Learning Alliance International is not confined to the classroom alone. The outdoors is explored for music, reading and art activities thus sharing not only the space but the joy of learning with others on campus. Sports constitute a major part of the academically challenging and dynamic Primary Years Program. It was in this spirit that PYP Olympics was held on the 3rd- 7th February, 2018.

The loud drum beat and thumping of students’ feet on the ground for a disciplined Parade set the rhythm for the event, followed by an oath-taking ceremony. The students of PYP then moved on to an energizing Zumba, followed by an astounding Gymnastics Display including Cart wheels, Dive roles and Pyramids. Amidst the cheering and encouragement for the young athletes from the parents, teachers as well as fellow students, the races began. The students of PYP I-V participated in Ball in the Bucket race, Grasshopper race, Zig-Zag race and Hurdle race. Warmed up by the races, the students proceeded to an invigorating football match, followed by the prize distribution ceremony.

The event concluded with the Taekwondo performance, which included Tile breaking, both wood & marble and an astounding demonstration of Nunchucks, which is a traditional Okinawan martial arts weapon. Everyone in attendance was in awe of the coordination, perfection and impact of this display. It was great to witness the sophistication and ease with which the students conducted themselves through these highly challenging moves.

The fantastic turnout of the parents added up to the festive spirit of the event with the colourful ambiance leaving every one energized.

LAI IB PYP & MYP - International Kangaroo Linguistics Contest Result

The International Kangaroo Linguistic Contest was held on 16th November, 2017. Each year thousands of students register for IKLC around the globe, and students participate in six categories, ranging from Pre Ecolier, Ecolier, to Benjamin, Cadet and Junior level, which includes all students from Grade 1 to 12.

We are proud to announce our IB students showing a brilliant performance in IKLC with 4 gold and 5 bronze medals and numerous 3 star and 2 star badges. Linguistics has become an integral part of language learning and it is only through the study of nature of language that we can teach our students to be effective communicators. This indeed is a distinctive feat and reflects on our effective methodology to promote language learning.

The International Kangaroo Linguistic Contest has an international character. It brings together the linguistic pedagogical experience from a number of countries and aims to promote the good communication culture which is crucial for thriving in today’s world.

PYP Art & Science Fair 2017

When it comes to fostering creativity, an Art and Science Fair is an intellectually stimulating experience for young learners. It not only gives them an opportunity to express themselves in a myriad of different ways, it also boasts the ability to analyse and attempt problem solving.

PYP Art and Science Fair,2017 was an expression of students’ artistic and scientific flair. Held at the end of the term, just before the winter break, it encompassed all the concepts they had studied during the themes; Who We Are and Where we are in Place and Time. The children had worked diligently to conceptualize their drawings and experiments and enthusiastically related it to a huge audience, who had come to witness the fair.

From the Life Cycle of a Sea Turtle and Butterfly to Exploding Moon Rocks; Tinga Tinga to Perspective drawing and Truck Art, the exhibition was a testament to our students’ fantastic thought process.

Math Lessons Have Never Been So Much Fun!!

Baking helps develop confidence and self-assurance, and a greater understanding of the world in a range of ways. Why do cakes rise? How do egg whites turn from a clear, sticky stuff into glossy white peaks? Baking can actually make for an interesting Science lesson. However, it was measurements and volume that the children really enjoyed learning about in their Baking activity this week. Cups, jugs, spoons, scales were used to show children how different amounts of substances e.g. butter, sugar, flour and cocoa powder can look different, but still weigh the same. The result was the delectable tray of cupcakes with various forms of frosting.

The hallmark of an International education is the array of skills children learn, outside of the four walls of the classroom. Cooking helps children understand why we eat the foods we do - what foods go well together, and what we need to include for a balanced meal. Besides learning about Mathematics and Sciences, cooking activities are an amazing way to bring different cultures in a class.

International Kangaroo Science Contest Winners

Children are curious by nature and science activities are the best way to nurture their curiosity and help them explore and understand the world around them. Kangaroo Science Contest has an international character and it serves as concrete step towards research training for all school children. This year children from over 70 countries spread across the world participated in IKSC.

PYP students participated in International Kangaroo Science Contest held on 24th September, 2017.

The categories under which they took part in the contest were Pre Ecolier, Ecolier and Benjamin level. The results were announced last week and PYP won four Bronze medals and numerous one, two and three star badges.

We can’t be more proud of our young students who ventured forward and accepted the Science challenge emerging as our shining little stars!

Iqbal Day

PYP celebrated Iqbal Day on 9th November, to commemorate the life and vision of Dr. Allama Muhammad Iqbal, “Poet of the East”.

Iqbal’s poetry is about his message to the Muslims of the Subcontinent and the reconstruction of religious thought in Islam.

PYP students spoke eloquently about the life and times of the poet, his vision of a separate homeland for Muslims and his expectations from the youth. A timeline of Iqbal’s life was presented before the audience and a Q and A session was conducted by our students sparking some very exciting responses from their fellows.

Students also recited some verses from his poetry with the help of some very simple props. It was refreshing to see students discussing their understanding of the poet’s philosophy and work with each other and to the audience at large.

Health & Well-Being

Authentic assessment engages students and encourages them to take responsibility for their own learning. By ensuring that assessment and the reflection that goes with it is an integral part of the teaching and learning that happens in the classroom, teachers create an environment where the student becomes a critical part in the assessment process.

Students of PYP V were engaged in the summative assessment of the first transdisciplinary theme , 'Who We Are', where they conducted a survey of PYP I & II students asking them about their eating habits and life style. The assessment criteria included an evaluation of well being considering Physical, Emotional, Social and Mental aspects.It was particularly interesting to note the younger students talking to their older peers candidly about various healthy and unhealthy food habits they have developed.

Activities like this not only enhance the conceptual understanding of students about lifestyles defining 'Who we are' but also give an insight about the social skills and communal norms and practices in the society.

'Read a New Book Month' & Book Parade

“Books give a soul to the universe, wings to the mind, flights to the imagination and life to everything.”
― Plato

PYP students celebrated their love of reading by organising different activities focused upon various genres of literature. Throughout the month of October, which has been observed as “Read a New Book Month”, students have been reading a book of their choice.

During last week, we had a bunch of enthusiastic parents and grandparents volunteering to come in and read to the students. The story telling was thoroughly enjoyed by the students and the parents alike. The culmination of the story telling was a colourful and invigorating Book Parade, for which the students dressed up as their favourite story character in costumes of rich and vivid colours, exhilarated to be a part of the procession. There were flares and gowns and masks and swords; there were also tiaras and flowers and boots.

They took the round of the entire school, where the students right from Preschool to Junior school were standing to applaud the brilliant display inspired from various books.

Architects of Tomorrow

As part of the Summative Assessment task for the second transdisciplinary theme, ‘Where We Are in Place and Time’, the students of PYP IV hosted a showcase, ‘Architects of Tomorrow’. The Central Idea of the theme revolved around explorers who created new paths to improve the lives of people. The students served as explorers and architects simultaneously, as they inspected the current design of Learning Alliance PYP and discussed modification of the current building structure. They envisioned the design through systematic investigation and studied a variety of materials/sources in order to construct a successful prototype of their proposed model. They demonstrated research skills and were risk takers throughout the theme. After a challenging week of generating the layout and arrangement of their allocated classes/ facilities, they worked collaboratively as a team and took up the challenge to revamp a New IB school.

Finally the students were able to create an innovative 3-D layout of Learning Alliance IB (PYP). Parents of PYP IV students were invited to the showcase, to come and view the students’ work throughout the theme. The students confidently presented their proposed layout of the 3-D model and also shared the challenges faced by them, during the process of redesigning a new campus. Their prototype turned out to be a great success, as it was appreciated and acknowledged by the entire Learning Alliance Faculty. They were awarded “Certificates of Achievement”, for being the “Architects of Tomorrow”, as an incentive to boost up their confidence and motivation for the upcoming themes.

Community Services

In order to inculcate the concept of community service, the students of Learning Alliance IB PYP held a Bake Sale on 1st February, 2017. The students expressed immense interest and zeal in the activity, where some even went a step ahead and baked the healthy food items put up for the sale, themselves. The PYP Bake Sale was another initiative to help our students become more confident, conscientious and caring individuals.

Initially planned as a small event, it turned out to be a massive success due to the incredible array of delectable goodies.

Exploring Nature

In order to understand the concept of Measurement, the students went to the Physics laboratory and learned how to use the measuring cup, thermometer, hand lens, meter stick and stopwatch. They measured different objects and materials using different units. The students recorded their data on a chart and made observations.

The students visited the playground and measured different objects and areas using the appropriate tools and units. They also measured different leaves, trees and the ground using centimeters, inches, feet and yards. They recorded their data on a chart, made their conclusions and shared it with the class. The students were inquirers and risk-takers while dealing with these challenges and they displayed the IB attitude "curiosity" while collecting the data. They also used their thinking skills to make observations and conclusions for their findings.

International Women's Day

International Women's Day is a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women. The day also marks a call to action for accelerating gender parity.

IB PYP came out in style to celebrate the International day for Women on 8th of March, 2017. The day was filled with various activities to instill in our students the importance of various roles women play in the society. Our young learners expressed their thoughts about the women in their lives they look up to in the form of their reflections. The students added their thoughts about the day on the colourful display board. They discussed the influential women in history, ranging from Sally Ride to Marie Curie and very lovingly created the crowns for their personal heroines; their mothers.

The day resonated with strong sentiments to ensure that the future for girls is bright, equal, safe and rewarding, making everyday the International Women's Day.

Junior Olympics

Sports and physical activity constitute a major part of the academically challenging and dynamic Primary Years Program. It was in this spirit that ‘Learning Alliance Junior Olympics’ for PYP was held on the 16th-17th February, 2017.

The loud drum beat and thumping of students’ feet on the ground for a disciplined March-Past set the rhythm for the event, followed by an oath-taking ceremony. The students of PYP then moved on to an energizing Zumba, followed by an astounding Gymnastics Display. Amidst the cheering and encouragement for the young athletes from the parents, teachers as well as fellow students, the races began. The students of PYP I-V participated in sack race, grasshopper race, zig-zag race and hula hoop race. Warmed up by the races, the students proceeded to an invigorating football match, followed by the prize distribution ceremony. The event was far from over though. In order to make the parents a part of the event, a blindfold race and tug-of-war was conducted for fathers and mothers respectively.

The event concluded at a high note,that is, the Taekwondo performance, which included Tile breaking, both wood & marble and an astounding demonstration of Nunchucks, which is a traditional Okinawan martial arts weapon. Everyone in attendance was in awe of the coordination, perfection and impact of this display. It was great to witness the sophistication and ease with which the students conducted themselves through these highly challenging moves.

Kitchen Activity

As part of the fourth transdisciplinary theme, ‘How the World Works’, classes of IB PYP conducted a fun and interactive Kitchen Activity;

PYP I made lemonade.
PYP II made Chocolate and Banana Cookie Trifles.
PYP IV made pickled carrots.

World Radio Day

Radio is recognized as a powerful communication tool and a low cost medium designed to reach the widest audience in the world and has a strong and specific role in emergency communication and disaster relief.

IB @ Learning Alliance observed World Radio Day on 13th of February, with great enthusiasm. Students were excited to learn about the new technological forms, radio is taking up, such as, broadband, mobiles and tablets. They learnt about various functions of the device and how they can broadcast one message to the entire world through it.

World Radio Day observance marked a new chapter of students' understanding of this device as an important instrument of bringing people together and touching lives.