THE Star, TUESDAY 4 OCTOBER 2016

Combining cultures

2 Bright Kids

THE STAR, TUESDAY 4 OCTOBER 2016

World of possibilities
By THERESA BELLE
MALAYSIA has always been
described as a melting pot of
cultures, but in todays world, that
description is hardly exclusive to
any one nation.
With global mobility at an
all-time high, borders are blurring
and the reach of every aspect of
culture, including language, is
widened.
It comes as no surprise, then,
that learning foreign languages has
become a focal component of
educating the global citizen.
Garden International Schools
Modern Foreign Languages (MFL)
Faculty head Louise Miller says
that in an increasingly globalised
world, the knowledge of other
languages is valued in all sorts of
employment areas.
It is for this reason, and for the
fact that language students are
recognised as having a multitude
of other skills and aptitudes, that
universities find polygots more
attractive candidates than their
monolingual counterparts, she
says.
At Garden, students start
learning Bahasa Malaysia in Year 1
and pick up another Asian
language in Year 4. In Year 5, they
can either continue studying both
these languages or replace one
with French or Spanish. Similarly,
many international schools offer
learning opportunities early on in
the education journey to allow
students to immerse themselves in
all aspects of language acquisition.
Students need to hear and
speak the language as much as
possible, particularly at a younger
age when they are so much more
receptive to new sounds.
We model the language and
give students opportunities to
practise with an increasing degree
of autonomy and creativity as their
confidence grows, Miller says.

Unparalleled growth
Nithiya Kala, head of languages
and literature at elc International
School, says that although English
is embraced with pride as a first
language, other languages are

The advantages
of multilingualism in
education are widely
recognised besides
communicative
enhancement,
students stand to
improve problemsolving and
multitasking skills as
well as their ability to
identify and analyse
patterns.
widely sought after to facilitate
knowledge and information
transfer.
Learning English as a first
language allows students to
explore the deeper and implied
meanings that would definitely
help them in humanities subjects.
Exploring the different styles
and genres of writing improves
their understanding of the
materials they read, which also
helps with studying the sciences,
says Nithiya.
On the literature component
of language learning, elc
International Schools literacy
support lead teacher Iris DCruz
adds, If you learn literature, you
learn about relationships, how to
curb biases, and of the basic
principles that govern this world
it is an eye opener to other ways of
life, widening your perspective and
your thinking.
The advantages of
multilingualism in education are
widely recognised besides
communicative enhancement,
students stand to improve
problem-solving and multitasking
skills as well as their ability to
identify and analyse patterns.
Undergraduate Alyssa Yau can
attest to this, having learnt and
communicated in English as her
first language as well as Bahasa

Malaysia and Mandarin since

kindergarten.
Learning mathematics and
science in both English and
Mandarin seemed redundant
back in school, but in
retrospect, learning three
languages at once definitely
expanded my brain functionality
and boosted my memory.
Now, I have the privilege of
reading in all three languages,
which widens my researching
capabilities in both academia
and my future career, says the
19 year-old.
The research Benefits of
Multilingualism in Education
published in the Universal Journal
of Educational Research in 2014
points out that multilingualism
encourages the development of
mixed languages, where speakers
tend to involve more than one
language in verbal communication.
This gives rise to cross-cultural
communication, as the barrier of
language disappears when people
tend to pick up the different
language-related skills of speaking,
reading and writing.
Yau has found that overcoming
this barrier is the first step in
maintaining healthy relations with
people from different backgrounds.
I can not only interact with
Malaysians of other races but also
those from other countries. This
widens my exposure to other
cultures, cultivates my interest in
sociology and makes travelling
more fun.
The professional development
benefits are undeniable, too, with
Yau saying that speaking two of the
most popular languages worldwide
opens up international platforms
for her to pursue a global career.
In a multicultural society,
inviduals would be wise to equip
themselves to become effective
communicators in both
professional and personal realms.
Much like beliefs and practices
that assimiliate and grow in
modern societies, languages play
an indisputable role in the
advancement of human civilisation
and learning them nurtures young
ones to become citizens with a
global worldview.

Explore opportunities
LOOKING to enrol your child in a school with a solid language
programme? International schools in the Klang Valley commonly
offer at least one foreign language in the curriculum, including but
not limited to:
Language

School(s)

Mandarin

Alice Smith International School, Garden International

School, Australian International School, elc International
School, British International School, Epsom College in
Malaysia, International School of Kuala Lumpur, Nexus
International School, Nilai International School, Sri Kuala
Lumpur, Sri KDU International School, Sayfol International
School, Sunway International School, Taylors International
School, UCSI International School Subang Jaya, UCSI
International School Springhill.

French

Alice Smith International School, Garden International

School, Australian International School, elc International
School, British International School, Epsom College in
Malaysia, International School of Kuala Lumpur, Nexus
International School, Sri KDU International School, Sayfol
International School, Sunway International School, UCSI
International School Springhill.

Spanish

Alice Smith International School, Garden International

School, Australian International School, elc International
School, British International School, Epsom College in
Malaysia, International School of Kuala Lumpur, Nexus
International School, Sayfol International School, UCSI
International School Springhill.

Japanese

Epsom College in Malaysia

Source: schooladvisor.my

Bright Kids 3

THE STAR, TUESDAY 4 OCTOBER 2016

DURING the school holidays, you

can give your children a
rewarding experience through
Cambridge English For Life
(CEFL)s holiday programmes,
which are tailored for students
between four and 18 years old.
CEFL offers six holiday
programmes in its centres
nationwide:
l Little Phonics Explorer
(four to six years old) This
programme explores the world
of phonics in a multisensory
manner using stories, music and
movement, games and crafts.
During this week-long
activity-based programme,
learners are exposed to 24 of the
42 phonic sounds introduced by
Jolly Phonics.
Each level runs for five days
with four-hour lessons each day.

l Interactive Reading (six to

12 years old) Using a blend of
popular culture, science and
classic literature, the Interactive
Reading programme aims to
engage children in the joy of
reading.
During this week-long
programme available at three
levels, students are exposed to the
English language through
comprehension activities,
role-playing, vocabulary games,

Fun holiday programmes

writing activities, crafts and
experiments.
Each level runs for five days
with four-hour daily lessons.

l Creative Writing (nine to 16

years old) This writing course is
designed for learners to
understand and produce written
material in a variety of forms.
This Creative Writing
programme aims to help children
understand features of the English
language so they have the ability to
write clearly, accurately and
effectively for a particular purpose
or audience.
Q-dees has
complete control
in overseeing
and updating its
programmes
due to its own
research and
development
initiative.

Out-of-the-box
experience
Q-DEES has grown to become
one of the most recognisable
names in early childhood
development and preschool
education in Malaysia.
Q-dees commitment to early
childhood education and
dedication to provide the best
has garnered recognition, being
awarded the SME Recognition
Award for Brand Excellence and
BrandLaureate BestBrands
Award three and seven times in
a row respectively.
Q-dees programmes and
syllabi are the brainchildren of
Q-dees own research and
development (R&D) initiative,
which grants it complete control
in overseeing and updating its
programmes.
Spearheaded by Q-dees
R&D centre, the development of
its various exclusive classroombased multimedia technologies,
custom teaching tools and
cutting-edge pedagogy have
proven highly successful in
inspiring generations of lifetime
learners.
Q-dees programmes employ
the unique Link & Think
methodology with its syllabi that
are thematically organised to
make complex concepts simple
to grasp.
Being multilingual tends to
enhance ones interpersonal
skills and self-confidence, which
in turn gives one an upper hand
academically and socially.
Q-dees English, Bahasa
Malaysia and Mandarin
programmes are empowered by

Cambridge
English For
Lifes holiday
programmes
allow your
children to
have a fulfilling
learning
experience
beyond the
school term.

l Speech & Drama (seven to 12

years old) The topics within this
programme focus on the process of
learning creative drama skills
rather than producing perfect
performances.
The Speech and Drama
programme includes mime,
reading, singing, talking, drama,
improvisation and readers theatre.
These activities involve using
voices to bring characters to life
while reading from a script.

the Link & Think methodology,

using technologically integrated
dance, songs, poems, idioms and
stories with traditional materials
to promote recognition, memory
and fluency in application.
Q-dees e-Reader boasts
thematic hardcopy and softcopy
readers, progressively training
students in proficient reading
through practise.
The Math Program uses the
exclusive Mathsboard to
promote student participation
and visualisation of complex
concepts, making them
interesting and simple to grasp.
Similarly, the Q-dees Science
Programme uses experiments to
simplify science topics and
fascinate students about the
world around us.
The Art and Craft as well as
Music Programs stimulate
students creativity. From simple
artwork to perspective drawing,
singing, dancing, simple music
theories and instruments, these
sessions are an avenue for
students to express themselves
in a creative manner.
Q-dees provides a safe
environment for children to
explore their physical abilities.
The Gymflex Program makes
use of various exercise
equipment as well as active
teamwork games to build body
coordination, improve motor
skills and encourage teamwork.

n For more information,

call 1700 815 077 or visit
www.q-dees.com.

l Public Speaking &

the Challenge Module (12 to 18
years old) This programme
covers preparation and planning,
confidence, vocalisation, body
language and facial expressions in
public speaking.
The first level, aimed at learners
aged 12 to 15, focuses on the
introduction of public speaking
concepts, practices and skills.

The second level caters to 15to 18-year-olds with an existing

knowledge of public speaking
and concentrates on honing
their skills within a more
mature context.

prepares students for academic

studies and professional work in
English.
The course is flexible, offering
learners a choice of modules and
course duration.

l Intensive English
Programme (elementary and
pre-intermediate) This
modular English course

n For more information,

call 03-7883 0912, e-mail

info@cambridgeforlife.org or
visit www.cambridgeforlife.org.

4 Bright Kids

WHAT began as a novel and

tantalising idea finally turned into
reality. After weeks of anticipation
and hard work, R.E.A.L Schools,
Cheras Campus, officially launched
its inaugural food technology
course and new Bella Caf in
August this year.
Food technology is the latest
course to be incorporated into the
campus innovative Art & Design
Programme, which offers seven
other modules photography and
digital media, music, fashion
design, graphic and multimedia,
fine art, performing arts drama
and dance.
These electives, which cater to
secondary students only, are in line
with R.E.A.L Schools continuous
efforts to offer unique educational
experiences with lifelong practical
benefits. The inaugural initiative,
arguably the first among private
and international schools,
encompasses more than just food
preparation.
Students will learn the finer
details of food products covering
areas such as quality control,
product management and possibly
even new product development.
They are also set to acquire
knowledge of raw materials and
proper ways of handling and
packaging food to offer customers
something safe, convenient and
tasty.
Adding further cause for
celebration was the eagerly
awaited opening of Bella Caf. In
conjunction with the launch,
guests were treated to a live food
demonstration by students and a
guest hotel chef.
Managing the caf would enable
students to apply their knowledge
and skills to real-life situations.
Serving more than just food and

THE STAR, TUESDAY 4 OCTOBER 2016

Real culinary know-how

R.E.A.L Schools, Cheras Campus food technology course and Bella Caf offer students the opportunity to
understand the finer details of food preparation and business management.
beverages, I am pleased to note
that this student-run caf also
serves as an extension of the food
technology course.
As the first of its kind at R.E.A.L
Schools, both course and caf
provide priceless platforms and
opportunities for students to
broaden their knowledge and
understanding of the more
technical aspects of food from
creation to consumption, says Ee
Ching Wah, president of R.E.A.L

Education Group.
The school has even roped in a
guest chef from a five-star hotel to
come and share valuable industry
experience and expertise while
cooking up a sumptuous spread,
says S.P. Lee, general manager of
R.E.A.L Schools, Cheras Campus.
Ever since the caf began
operations, the response from both
students and parents alike has
been extremely encouraging. They
have been queuing up daily to buy

the various delicious treats on

offer, says Lee.
Ee adds that the food technology
course would also go a long way in
teaching students how to run a
business.
The practical know-how and
experience gained from being bona
fide caf operators could prove
invaluable in their future
endeavours. Among other things,
they will be exposed to a range of
management skills and areas such

as customer service, he says.

It is part and parcel of R.E.A.L
education to extend learning
beyond books and classrooms.
Students are always encouraged to
be actively involved and engaged
in the learning process.
These pioneering projects are set
to add another dimension to the
school not only in terms of its
facilities but the educational value
it will offer students for years to
come. After all, education at
R.E.A.L Schools is more than just
learning it is an experience.
With 30 years of history in
shaping education excellence,
R.E.A.L Schools is a diverse
community of learning committed
to delivering holistic education
through exceptional academic
standards.
Today, R.E.A.L Schools consists of
six schools located at three
campuses in Malaysia, offering
both international and national
syllabi at the preschool, primary to
secondary levels that aim to
nurture well-rounded students
with outstanding grades, robust
extracurricular activities,
leadership qualities and lifelong
practical living skills.
R.E.A.L Schools is a five-star
school as certified by the Education
Ministry.

n For more information,

call 03-9021 3601 (Cheras campus),

03-7842 3228 (Shah Alam campus)
or 07-386 4468 (Johor Baru
campus) or visit
www.realschools.edu.my.

Bright Kids 5

THE STAR, TUESDAY 4 OCTOBER 2016

THE traditional view of school is

that it is a place where children
learn subject knowledge and
ultimately prepare for public
examinations such as Sijil
Pelajaran Malaysia, International
General Certificate of Secondary
Education (IGCSE), Sijil Tinggi
Persekolahan Malaysia or A-Levels.
An education in a good school is
so much more as it includes
developing social and life skills as
well as academic study.
In the early years, children learn
to share and play together as
they gain literacy and numeracy
skills.
As they get older, children learn
to become more independent,
think critically and collaborate
with others.

Defining the best

Good schools plan for this part of
students learning journey, but this
essential part of a young adults
education really becomes
important as they reach the end of
compulsory schooling around the
age of 16.
This is the age when profound
decisions are made for the future
especially in terms of university
studies.
In November last year, Forbes
magazine published an article
about the 10 skills that new
graduates should have.
This is essential reading for all
students and parents as it
highlights the important fact that
academic qualifications do not
count for everything teamwork,
decision-making and
problem-solving skills are placed as
higher priorities.
When enrolling new students,
the best universities worldwide are

At Taylors,
learning is
more than
just grades
it is the
balance
between
academic
and life
skills.

Prioritising study and skills

looking for individuals who not
only excel academically but have
the right experiences and skills.
This is being mirrored by many of
the worlds top multinational
companies.

Keeping a balance
Taylors International School
keeps this important balance
between academic study and life
skills.
The academic side of this
balance is still of great priority and
for post-IGCSE study, the school
uses A-Levels from Cambridge
International Examinations and
builds upon the strong reputation
it has built from IGCSE.
A-Levels is recognised as a goldstandard qualification for gaining
entry to universities worldwide
due to the rigour and challenge

The learning of science and mathematics is part of the holistic curricular at

Taylor's International School.
that it presents to students.
The schools results have been
outstanding, as have been the
number of Top in Malaysia and
Top in the World awards garnered
in the last few years.

Taylors International School

Kuala Lumpur offers a balance
of subjects comprising
mathematics and science
disciplines together with English
and humanities.

The other side of this balance is

life skills, where universities and
employers are increasingly placing
huge emphasis.
At Taylors International School,
students are involved in a holistic
approach to their studies. This
continues in the Sixth Form where
students follow a planned
leadership course alongside their
A-Levels studies.
This course promotes life skills
with holistic values, exposing
students to rich experiences
beyond the traditional classroom.
This gives Taylors International
School students the advantage of
having skills for success at
university and for life.

n For more information, call the

Admissions Department of
Taylors International School,
Kuala Lumpur at 03-9200 9898.

6 Bright Kids

THE STAR, TUESDAY 4 OCTOBER 2016

Shaping life, making memories

7GLS S P
'EQT

AS a student, I want my school to

be one of the best schools so that I
can be very proud of it. My school,
for starters, looks like a big white
cake or the White House. Its
appearance will make ones jaw
drop and one cannot possibly
imagine that students study there.
Most students will agree with me
that we secretly despise school.
Every day, we have to wake up
extra early to go to school when we
could be sleeping soundly.
Trust me, the struggle is real but
there is something that I look
forward to when I roll out of bed
every morning to go to school. I
look forward to the amount of
knowledge and information that I
can gain and be fed with.
I love science and English. I
used to hate science but now,
after watching a couple of
Crime Scene Investigation
series, I have discovered a
passion for forensic science
and begun doing a lot of
research on it.
We should all find interest in
what we do in the future because

STUDENTS
SPEAK
without passion, there is definitely
no way anyone would even bother
taking the effort to study a topic.
I also love my extracurricular
activities as I am in cheerleading
and it is an amazing, hardcore
sport that requires a lot of energy.
It is really fun to be around
friends and share the laughter
when our stunts fail or share the
pride when we all manage to do a
stunt without falling.
I also enjoy going to school
because it is like my second home
as I have my friends and teachers
there. My friends and I always
share laughter and gossip among

each other. School brings the

students together.
Not too long ago, my school
organised a camp, which was a
great bonding time for all of us as
we shared the fun and thrills of
doing various activities together.
From my perspective, the reason
my school stands out is that our
teachers make learning fun so that
we become interested in learning
new things.
We do not realise we are making
memories at school, we just know
we are having fun. All my
memories are held in the long
corridors in the building of my
school.
All the laughter and tears that
are shared in school will forever be
in my heart and mind.
People hold on to memories so
tight because memories never
change.
I know that when I become an
adult, I will be able to look back
and be thankful that I was a part of
this amazing, grand school. By
Kharishma Harjai, Form 2T
student at Matrix Global Schools

Morris Allen
English has a
variety of
courses that
incorporate
the reading
of childrens
literature
and the
development
of writing
skills.

Exploring English
MORRIS Allen English believes
learning should not end during
the school break and, most
importantly, should be fun. This
is the reason the Morris Allen
English Holiday Programme was
developed.
There is a range of short
courses that helps students
continue to develop their skills
in English in a fun interactive
learning environment.
The two-week holiday
programme consists of several
10-lesson short courses that
include fun learning activities,
following the Morris Allen
English interactive approach.
The range of short courses
focuses on different English
language skills. Back by popular
demand, Morris Allen English is
offering the speech and drama
course, where the focus is on
speaking skills and building
confidence.
In this course, students are
involved in fun speaking and
role-playing exercises, speech
presentations and oral reading
to entertain, with guidance from
trained native English-speaking
teachers.
Morris Allen English offers
courses that incorporate the
reading of childrens literature
and the development of writing
skills.
These courses help students
enjoy reading great books
together.

Students also build on their

comprehension and vocabulary
skills by being involved in
interactive learning activities
designed around these books.
They explore the writing
styles of the authors and how
they can use the techniques of
successful authors in their
own writing.
Morris Allen English
understands that laying good
foundations for learning English
must start early, so short courses
are included for younger
students in this holiday
programme.
These include the pre-nursery
and phonics that are fun,
interactive and specifically
aimed at developing a love of
learning in younger children.
At Morris Allen English,
learning and fun are mixed
together so that the learning
does not have to stop just
because it is the holidays.
Keeping young brains active
by taking part in the Morris
Allen English Holiday
Programme is a sure way for
children to build stronger
English skills for the start of
their next school year. Seats are
limited.

n For more information on

the holiday programme and

enrolment for next year,
call 03-7610 9889 or visit
www.morrisallen-malaysia.com.

Bright Kids 7

THE STAR, TUESDAY 4 OCTOBER 2016

Best of
boarding
BOARDING forms a close-knit
community where the girls are
cared for and cared about. It is
an extended family where the
girls have mutual respect for one
another and develop close
friendships.
A community environment
forms the basis outside of
academia, sports and creative
areas where the girls are able to
form important relationships
with adults and peer groups
alike.
Young girls increasingly feel
pressured in various areas of
their life and the tutor team
should be the safe and stable
environment that provides this
sanctuary.
Here at Marlborough College
Malaysia, compassion,
companionship and
communication are
unwaveringly prevalent in the
boarding community as well as
the ethos of our mother school in
the United Kingdom of rigour,
responsibility and respect that
are key qualities in ensuring that
a community thrives.
A boarding house should be
based on traditional values and
a holistic perspective of good
manners, positive contributions,
commitment, kindness and
taking responsible risks.
I believe that engineering
intellectual curiosity through
current affairs, encouraging the
girls to grasp opportunities that
are available, celebrating
successes and endeavours as
well as accepting that,
sometimes, things will not
always come easily or
successfully are what make
boarding houses a true home
away from home.
When girls get homesick, there
will always be an empathetic ear
from the housemistress, tutors
or friends. Their minds are
quickly taken off it by the vast
number of activities on offer
throughout the periods when
one may start to miss home.

Exeat weekends occur every

third weekend when the girls go
home from Friday to Sunday.
Privilege weekends can also be
taken.
Parents are welcome and
encouraged to watch sports
fixtures, musical performances
and drama showcases.
Often, the girls will go out for
lunch on Sundays if their parents
live locally or go to a friends
house for the day.
Skype, FaceTime and Messenger
ensure that regular contact can be
made during certain times of the
day. Each boarding house has a
At Marlborough College Malaysia, compassion, companionship and communication are prevalent in the boarding
Twitter feed so that parents can
community.
see snapshots of what their
daughters are up to.
Boarding in the Sixth Form is
enormously advantageous. The
additional time can be spent on
examination preparations, sports
fields, the theatre stage or in
music practice rooms.
CAS (creativity, action and
service) is an integral part of the
International Baccalaureate
Diploma Programme and the
service opportunities that are
available to the boarders over the
weekend, be it tutoring their peer
groups, helping at the local
orphanage or organising social
events, are plentiful and not
pressurised through time
constraints.
Boarding also prepares our
Sixth Form for the next step of
their university life, gap year or
embarking on career paths. The
Artemis programme offered and
the increasing independence that
the boarders gain are invaluable.
I would advise parents to pick a
school that is a good match for
their daughter. Key areas for a
successful school are diversity, a
pupil-centred vision and ethos,
proactive pupils (both past and
present), a creative environment
and an atmosphere that is
thriving.
I would suggest that you
consider these areas, coupled with
the more obvious precedents such
as academic standing, sporting
results, creative enrichment and
reputation. By Leanne
Rowlands, housemistress of
Honan House

n For more information, visit

www.marlboroughcollegemalaysia.
org.

Leanne
Rowlands
advises parents
to pick a school
that is diverse,
pupil-centred
and has a
creative
environment.

8 Bright Kids

THE STAR, TUESDAY 4 OCTOBER 2016

A love
for
language
THE study of languages is an integral
component of education, especially in
international schools that are built and
developed with a global outlook.
At the recently opened St Josephs
Institution International School Malaysia
(SJIIM), language studies is a key focus of
the curriculum.
SJIIMs high school principal Stuart
Glascott says, Our desire is to develop a
love of language learning as well as
cultural understanding through our
language programmes.
We have very small language classes
and we offer them at the level suited to the
students and employ outstanding teachers
to make this happen.

Cultivating a global worldview

The edge that multilingualism provides
transcends academic and career benefits.
Glascott points out that the ability to
communicate with a wider range of people
makes it easier and more enjoyable to
interact with others, both at home and
when travelling.
He adds, The research is clear that
learning a second language from an early
age has a wide range of benefits in a
persons academic and social life. Greater
self-esteem and enhanced confidence
contribute to bilingual children having a
more positive concept of self.
These benefits have become so
prominent that parents today are placing
greater emphasis on language studies.
Parents understand the need for their
children to have the ability to communicate
in more than one language and expect
schools to show a strong commitment to
the learning of languages.
That certainly has been the case at SJIIM
virtually every parent that has enrolled
their child in our school has asked about
the language programme, says Glascott.
Mandarin and Bahasa Malaysia lessons
are compulsory in elementary school, but
high school students can choose to study
one to three languages.
Mandarin is SJIIMs main focus as a first,
second and foreign language, and it is

Research shows that

learning a second
language from an
early age has a wide
range of benefits. At
SJIIM, Ervina Atan is
the Bahasa Malaysia
and culture leader.

David Klock, music and Spanish teacher at

SJIIM, shares the school's teaching philosophy
of catering to individual needs of students.
offered on a daily basis at elementary school
and for up to six periods weekly at high
school.
Bahasa Malaysia is offered as a native or
foreign language at all levels, while Spanish
is offered in the high school.

Guiding with excellence

Highly trained, experienced teachers are
central to the delivery of language lessons at
SJIIM.
These teachers share SJIIMs teaching
philosophy of catering to individual needs of
the students and making learning interesting
and challenging, supporting the schools
mission of education nurturing persons
who make a difference to society.
Students learn best when the learning is
pitched at the right level and accurate
feedback is regularly provided to the
learner. This is true also for language
learning and this is why we recruit teachers
with effective learning methodologies.
The students undertake lots of group
work and practise all the components of
language learning reading, writing,
speaking and listening, says Glascott.
Staff and students also come together to
celebrate major Malaysian festivals. Besides
promoting cultural respect, Glascott believes
an interest in and love of other languages
will result from these events as students seek
to deepen their understanding of different
cultures.

n For more information, visit

www.sji-international.edu.my.

Bright Kids 9

THE STAR, TUESDAY 4 OCTOBER 2016

A good choice
SELECTING a preschool that is
good for your child can be
exciting but overwhelming. As a
parent, you want to be confident
that you have chosen the right
preschool for your little one.
Choosing a right preschool for
your children will set them up
for learning for the rest of their
lives. So, how do you make the
best choice?
While structure is essential,
parents should look for a
preschool that offers
opportunities for children to
make choices about their
learning.
It is important to look for a
discovery-based programme and
not one that is primarily focused
on drill-and-practice skills.
Research shows that early
education is extremely
important in childrens life
because this is when their brains
are developing.
A good preschool offers plenty
of opportunities for active play,
which gives children the
freedom to think creatively and
express openly as children learn
more in exploratory and open
environments.
It makes learning more
engaging, fun and easy while
enjoying teaching aids and
resources.
In Kinderland, childrens
analytical skills are nurtured
with the theme-based integrated
curriculum, which prompts
children to learn through
exploration and discovery.
This helps to connect children to
their growing world gradually,
allowing them to embrace their
new knowledge.
In daily learning, thematic
mini projects provide
opportunities for children to

interact with each other, make

decisions, explore ideas and find
the joy in learning through
making simple machines and
building structures with recycled
materials.
Through the designed
classroom environment, children
are encouraged to develop their
curious, creative, capable,
confident and caring minds to
their fullest potential.
Kinderland also creates
opportunities for parents to
spend quality time with their
children, understand and assess
their learning at school through
the home-learning link projects
and be a partner with
Kinderland to bring out the best
in their children.
It enriches childrens learning
by giving them first-hand
experience and knowledge on
how to think, work and manage
a project with their parents.
Studies have shown that
including music in the school
curriculum helps children to
improve their concentration
and memory, listening skills,
ability to express feelings,
sense of rhythm, understanding
of the basic rudiments of
music, ability to read music
scores and appreciation of
teamwork.
Kinderlands Children Music
Programme provides children
the opportunity to experiment
with simple musical instruments
while the younger kids enjoy an
early exposure to music
appreciation.
Physical activities are
important for the development
of a childs gross motor skills
and to promote health and
well-being.
The Kinderfit programme is a

The Kinderland curriculum nurtures your child to be curious, creative,

capable, confident and caring.

Kinderland's
Kinderfit
programme
allows
children to
get moving
while having
fun.
structured wellness programme
that is organised to understand the
relationship between space, time,
energy and movement.
Kinderfit is a unique cardiofitness programme that makes
exercising fun.
As such, children benefit from
an early mastery of fundamental
motor skills, development of

self-confidence and are able to

practise responsible habits and
lifestyle choices.
Kinderlands educational
programmes have been developed
and refined over many years by the
Kinderland curriculum team that
spans Singapore, Malaysia and
China as well as a panel of
international advisors that is aimed

at providing a wholesome and

enjoyable learning experience.
Kinderland is now open for
registration and looks forward to
welcoming you and your child to
the Kinderland family.

n For more information, visit

www.kinderlandmsia.com.my or
call 03-5632 2663.

10 Bright Kids

TECHNOLOGY is an essential
teaching and learning tool in
classrooms today. At Sunway
International School (SIS),
technology has become a bridge
between teachers and students,
allowing them to bond over a
common platform for education at
its most efficient.
Technology tools open up
dimensions of endless possibilities
in learning, research and
discussion.
The proliferation of technology
and social media has enhanced the
way SIS teachers teach. It increases
productivity, convenience and
relevance, resulting in a richer
learning environment.
Incorporating hi-tech
experiences in the SIS classrooms
has realised progressive benefits
for both teachers and students.
Students find it easier to
understand and absorb
information while teachers provide
meaningful experiences that make
more sense to students and call
upon their innovation, awareness
and critical thinking.
As students become increasingly
tech-savvy in todays world, they
become not only more engaged but
also empowered as they enrich
their technology prowess.
In presentations, assignments or
collaborative work, SIS students
are eager to explore new features
and test various skills gained as
they become adept at operating the
software.
Students are curious and
courageous when it comes to
learning technology. Their curiosity
aids them in understanding lessons
and consolidating new material.
In addition, SIS teachers note a
marked increase in students
accountability once they have

THE STAR, TUESDAY 4 OCTOBER 2016

Technology-enhanced learning
SIS teachers
are certified by
the Ontario
College of
Teachers and
apply
classroom
practices that
are guided by
internationally
benchmarked
standards.

The open and communicative learning environment at SIS empowers

students to take ownership of their academic performance.
adopted technology into their work
as they enjoy exploring tech tools
in completing their homework.
Gone are the days when students
are studying with paper and pencil
for two hours every evening.
Technology provides students with
a real-time collaborative work
environment with peers and
teachers not only in class but at
home as well.
Teachers have observed
improvements in students
productivity, which are measured
through the creativity, quality
and timeliness of assignments
submitted.
With the high degree of
interaction and personalised
attention, lessons are never dull
at SIS. Students participate in a

diverse range of activities and

exercises such as debates,
role-playing and independent
research, all designed to enhance
and facilitate their understanding
of concepts and theories.
SIS teachers apply the Ontario
Ministry of Education best
practices to assess a students
individual capability and,
subsequently, design lesson plans
that support their strengths and
potential. Teachers work closely
with students through coaching,
tutoring and mentoring during
assignments.
Certified by the Ontario College
of Teachers, SIS teachers
classroom practices are guided and
informed by internationally
benchmarked standards.

This translates to a highly

interactive environment where
critical thinking, social
responsibility and experiential
reflection are the major focus of
everyday life.
SIS teachers foster an open and
communicative atmosphere that
empowers students to take
ownership of their academic
performance. This nurtures each
students unique aptitude and
creativity towards developing their
full potential.
Students appreciate that teachers
practise a holistic approach to
education, enabling students to
examine different routes to success
based on their unique individual
strengths.
The interactive learning

approach encourages students to

be inquisitive, independent,
life-long learners and, above all,
to experience an engaging and
enjoyable day in the classroom.
SIS equips all study areas with
Wi-Fi access for students to work
on their laptops and tablets. All 29
classrooms and five laboratories at
SIS contain an interactive
whiteboard to run multimedia
programmes.
SIS is offering an opportunity for
students and parents to experience
first-hand an interactive lesson
demonstration at SIS Open Day on
Oct 22 from 10am to 3pm.

n For more information,

visit sis.sunway.edu.my or
call 03-7491 8070.

Bright Kids 11

THE STAR, TUESDAY 4 OCTOBER 2016

LIKE human beings, friendly

bacteria in the gut need food for
survival. Our choice of food affects
their survival rate as they feed on
what we eat.
If we consume adequate food or
supplements that contain
prebiotics, friendly bacteria in the
body can survive for a longer
period.
Many people confuse prebiotic
with probiotic. Prebiotics are not
live bacteria but non-digestible
food ingredients that beneficially
affect the host by selectively
stimulating the growth and/or
activity of one or a limited
number of types of bacteria in the
colon that can improve the hosts
health.
On the other hand, probiotics are
live microorganisms that deliver
health benefits when taken in
adequate amounts.
The combination of prebiotic
and probiotic is called a synbiotic
product, which is more effective
than prebiotics or probiotics alone
in modulating the gut microbiota.
Both of them work together in a
synergistic manner towards better
health protection. The presence of
prebiotics is able to enhance the
survival rate and activities of
probiotics in the gut as well as
promote the growth of friendly
bacteria in the body.
Bifidobacterium lactis BB-12,
Lactobacillus acidophilus LA-5 and
inulin combined are a clinically
proven synbiotic to deliver
synergistic health benefits among
children.

The right combination

Keep children healthy with synbiotics.

The combination is able to
provide triple protection in
children through better nutrient
absorption, better growth and
better protection.
Synbiotics help support digestive
health and enhance the absorption
of vitamins and minerals, thus
improving the nutritional status of
children.
Synbiotics consisting of
Bifidobacterium lactis BB-12,

Ward off
health
threats
PREVENTION is better than cure
this is especially true when it
comes to the health of your
children. Instead of getting them
treated whenever they fall sick,
it is much better to build their
immune system so that they can
defend themselves from health
threats.
To strengthen your childrens
natural defence mechanism,
start by supplementing their
diet. Ideally, the supplement you
give them should activate their
innate immune cells without
overstimulating the immune
system.

Throughout the body

Wellmune is a gluco
polysaccharide derived from
highly purified proprietary
yeast. Once ingested, it will be
sent to various immune organs
throughout the body by the
immune cells in the
gastrointestinal tract.

Optimal absorption
In the organs of the immune
system, macrophages (a type of
immune cells) will slowly break
it into smaller fragments to be
slowly released over a number
of days.
The fragments will then be
bound to neutrophils, the most
abundant immune cells in the
body.

Key features
Widely available as a natural

Supplementing your childrens

diet is a good way to build their
natural defence mechanism as
prevention is better than cure.
food and beverage supplement,
clinical studies have shown that
this kosher, halal, non-allergenic
and GMO (genetically engineered
organisms) -free ingredient is
capable of:
l Strengthening key immune
cells
l Maintaining vitality and
mental clarity
l Protecting against stress
Power up your childs
immunity with Immunolicious
gummies today, which are
available in three flavours
Super-Strawberry, Mega-Mango
and Awesome Orange. Staying
healthy has never tasted so good.
This article is brought to
you by AJ Research and Pharma
Sdn Bhd.

n For more information, call

03-2161 1585 or visit
www.ajrph.com.

Lactobacillus acidophilus LA-5 and

inulin are able to work in
synergistic ways to promote a
healthy gut system among children
through improving digestion and
bowel movements.
The intake of synbiotics also
promotes the growth of friendly
bacteria so they can survive longer
to deliver health benefits.
Additionally, synbiotics give
better protection through

modulating the immune function,

therefore reducing the number of
sick days among children.
Bifidobacterium lactis BB-12 can
increase the production of
intestinal immunoglobulin A in
children to enhance their immune
function.
There are several important
points for parents to take note
when choosing the right type of
prebiotic and probiotic products

for their children.

Parents may look for clinically
studied prebiotic and probiotic
strains that have been proven to
deliver health benefits among
children.
For a probiotic to work, it must
also be able to bypass the stomach
acid and bile salt in the gut so that
it can reach the intestine alive and
deliver its health benefits.
Bifidobacterium lactis BB-12 and
Lactobacillus acidophilus LA-5 are
probiotic strains that can survive
passage through the intestine due
to their gastric- and bile-resistant
properties.
Parents play a vital role in
providing the right combination of
prebiotic and probiotic strains that
is needed for their childrens gut
health.
A clinically proven synbiotic
containing Bifidobacterium lactis
BB-12, Lactobacillus acidophilus
LA-5 and inulin with its triple
protection can be a good choice
for keeping your children healthy.
This article is brought to you by
BiO-LiFE Marketing Sdn Bhd.

n For more information, call

BiO-LiFEs customer care at

03-7882 8888 (Monday to Friday
from 8am to 5pm) or e-mail
health@biolife.com.my.

12 Bright Kids

WE live in a world that is diverse

and whose boundaries are being
eroded into what can be described
as a global village.
The workforce is highly mobile
and hungry for success. Yet, here in
Malaysia, some fear the loss of a
Malaysian identity rich in culture
and tradition from the simple act
of learning other languages.
For years, the fear of the loss of
the national language, Bahasa
Malaysia, has led the Government
to introduce policies in an attempt
to shore up erosion.
However, it could be argued that
by focusing too much on Bahasa
Malaysias preservation, we run
the risk of creating a generation of
marginalised young people unable
to secure jobs locally or take their
place on a wider world stage.
The English language in
particular is increasingly seen as
the language of commerce,
technology and science.
In Malaysia, balancing the
necessity of teaching Bahasa
Malaysia and the English language
has been of primary importance to
multiple government agencies, but
this is not unique to Malaysia.
Countries around the world
struggle to maintain their mother
tongue in the global village.
In a school such as elc
International School, there are 28
different nationalities creating a
wonderful mix of cultures,
traditions and expectations.
Despite the wide variety of
students at elc, head of languages
and literature Nithiya Kala and
literacy support lead teacher Iris
DCruz are staunch supporters of
the Malaysian national language.
Nithiya equates knowing Bahasa
Malaysia with knowing the culture,
people and nation. DCruz drives

THE STAR, TUESDAY 4 OCTOBER 2016

At elc International School, students are nurtured to appreciate the learning of Bahasa Malaysia, English and other languages.

Preserving national pride

even her non-Malaysian students to
learn the language as it helps with
positive integration.
Nithiya, a Malaysian herself,
says, We need not fear the
teaching of languages besides
Bahasa Malaysia. Our mother
tongue is not at risk simply by
learning a second language.
Ultimately, students proficiency
in a language correlates with their
attitude towards the language.
Focusing on the attitude should be
the No.1 strategy, not pulling down
the shutters to prevent access to
other languages.
Interest can be piqued through
activities and events that showcase
the language in a positive manner,
with students being given exposure

This statement can also be

applied to education. Educators
appreciate that students will make
mistakes when learning, but
increasingly, the media,
government bodies and parents
are less forgiving.
The important thing is to learn
from the mistake and focus less on
apportioning blame. The blame
game at its core is a deconstructive
pursuit when the focus should be
on building and supporting young
individuals.
Malaysia is certainly at a
crossroad on many fronts and
educators at elc believe that
language will play an essential part
in shaping the nations future.
It is important to focus on

to less traditional and dull methods

of teaching.
For instance, comedy shows,
homestay programmes, cultural
performances and music are just
some methods of creating an
interest and passion in learning a
language.
Creating connections of the heart
can make a teachers job in making
connections of the mind infinitely
easier.
Olympic swimmer Michael
Phelps once wrote: There will be
obstacles. There will be doubters.
There will be mistakes. But with
hard work, with belief, with
confidence and trust in yourself
and those around you, there are no
limits.

S
H
P

H O

O L
R

O G

R A

I
M M

constructive efforts and not fear

the loss of our culture and
traditions through the learning of
other languages.
Ultimately, speaking many
languages opens doors in the
global village and increases
students employability. For
Malaysians, keeping Bahasa
Malaysia in our hearts is what
unites us and makes us who we
are.
Educators need to unite and
bring the national language back
into the hearts of Malaysians as
this is the only way to secure its
future.

n For more information, visit

www.elc.edu.my.

O L
D
E

A Y

Fun programmes designed

to enrich English language skills
LITTLE PHONICS EXPLORER (Ages 4 - 6)
Explore the world of phonics in an exciting manner using stories,
music and movement, games and crafts.
INTERACTIVE READING (Ages 6-12)
Using popular culture, science, and classic literature, students
nurture a tangible understanding of the joys and benefits of
reading.
SPEECH & DRAMA (Ages 7-12)
Focuses on the process of learning creative drama skills by
challenging students creative abilities, coordination, teamwork
and problem-solving skills.

CREATIVE WRITING (Ages 9-16)

Creative writing has been tailored to teach
everything a budding writer ought to know.
Skills and creative fields in writing will be
explored.

new

courses

PUBLIC SPEAKING & THE CHALLENGE MODULE

(Ages 12-18)
Learn how to prepare and
while gaining confidence through improved
vocalisation, body language and facial expressions.
INTENSIVE ENGLISH PROGRAMME (Elementary and
Pre-Intermediate)
A modular English course designed to prepare
academic studies and professional work in English.

012 343 9820

Putra Nilai

06 790 9693

ISO 9001

001

KLR6023489
Were now ISO 9001:2008 certified

info@cambridgeforlife.org