Our Year 12 Chemistry students have recently delved into the fascinating world of electrochemistry through a hands-on investigation into electrolytic and voltaic cells. This practical component of their studies allowed students to explore how chemical energy is converted to electrical energy (and vice versa), reinforcing their theoretical knowledge with real-world applications.
Using our newly upgraded laboratory facilities, students were able to engage with modern equipment that brought their classroom learning to life. The improved lab environment not only enhanced the accuracy and reliability of their experiments, but also fostered deeper understanding through interactive and collaborative learning.
From constructing functioning electrochemical cells to analyzing the factors affecting cell potential, students demonstrated curiosity, critical thinking, and a strong grasp of core chemical principles. It's exciting to see how the integration of theory and practice is empowering students to think like scientists and develop skills that will serve them well beyond the classroom.
Well done to our Year 12 Chemistry cohort for their enthusiasm and hard work during this investigation!
The Creativity, Activity, Service Program is one of the core components of the IB Diploma Program.
All IB students have to be involved in creative, physical and service experiences, and projects in a local, national or international context for at least 18 months. The CAS Program is about the education of the IB students beyond the classroom and the emphasis is on learning by doing.
It encourages students to share their energies and talents while developing awareness, concern, and the ability to work cooperatively with others.
We regularly feature various experiences and projects in the Gutenberg Post to provide insight to our school community what CAS Experiences and CAS Projects our IB students are involved with.
Ulrike Miehle, CAS Coordinator
fairy floss for a girl & her world
At this year’s Christmas Market, Year 11 were in charge of the fairy floss stall to raise money for our school charity, a Girl & her world. In the weeks leading up to the market, we spent time planning, organising, and getting everything ready for the Xmas market weekend.
Friday wasn’t great with the weather, and so not many people came, but we still had some visitors. Saturday was much busier, and it was nice to see so many people stopping by our stall to buy fairy floss and support the cause.
The weekend was full of sugar, laughs, and a few failed attempts at making perfect fairy floss, but after some practice, we worked really well as a team.
By the end of the market, we had sold lots of fairy floss and raised $460 to help girls in Fiji with their education.
- Helene, Year 11
The GISS Community proudly congratulates our 38 DSD I and 13 DSD.
II candidates who successfully completed their oral and written exams this term.
They were tested across all four areas: reading, writing, listening, and speaking. The presentations were especially impressive, demonstrating not only language proficiency but also personality and dedication.
The DSD I certificate opens the path to Studienkollegs in Germany – an important step in preparing for university. The DSD II certificate allows students to enter universities in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland directly.
These exams mark a major milestone – and we’re proud of what our students have achieved. We look forward to the results in Term 4. - Karlo Gruja
Unsere GISS Gemeinde gratuliert herzlichst unseren 38 Teilnehmerinnen und Teilnehmern des DSD I sowie den 13 Prüflingen des DSD II, die in diesem Trimester ihre Prüfungen erfolgreich abgelegt haben – sowohl schriftlich als auch mündlich.
Geprüft wurden sie in allen vier Bereichen: Lesen, Schreiben, Hören und Sprechen. Besonders beeindruckend waren die Präsentationen, die nicht nur Sprachkompetenz, sondern auch die individuelle Persönlichkeit und Engagement der Prüflinge gezeigt haben.
Das DSD I-Zertifikat eröffnet den Weg zu einem Studienkolleg in Deutschland – eine wichtige Vorbereitung für das Studium. Mit dem DSD II-Zertifikat können unsere Schüler direkt an Universitäten in Deutschland, Österreich und der Schweiz studieren.
Die DSD-Prüfungen sind ein bedeutender Meilenstein – und wir sind stolz auf die Leistungen aller teilnehmenden Prüflinge. Die Ergebnisse erwarten wir mit Spannung im vierten Trimester. - Karlo Gruja