“Where the lions roar!

Vol. 1, No. 6
April 2011

AISA’s Japanese Students’ Families Safe Thousands Enjoy

After Devastating Earthquake, Tsunami Largest-Ever AISAFest
School Visits Japanese School, Raises AED 10,000+

(Left) Ms. Apted’s Grade 5 class visited the nearby Japanese School to provide support. (Photo courtesy Ms. Apted.)
(Right) Freshman Takumi Morozumi is one of AISA’s four Japanese students, all of their families are safe.

by Oshba Al Murar
(Grade 12, Cosmopolitan)
After a 9.0 earthquake dev-
astated Japan on March 11, the
school has raised awareness and
money for relief. The handful
of Japanese students and their
relatives are safe, though stu-
dents are concerned about their
homeland.
Japan's worst-ever earthquake
and resulting tsunami killed near-
ly 10,000 people, with another
16,000 still missing, according
to the New York Times. Many
are also concerned about the ef-
fects of radiation from damaged
nuclear power plants.
Based on passport nationalities,
AISA has four Japanese students.
Freshman Takumi Morozumi
heard about the disaster while at
the ISAC basketball tournament.
Fortunately, his family is from
Tokyo – far from the earthquake
-- and none of his relatives or
were injured, he said.
“But as a Japanese [person],
I am worried,” said Morozumi.
“They were prepared for such a
thing, but did not know it was
going to be this big.” student Kaho Emman (Grade 3),
The school quickly reacted to
the disaster. On March 14, Ms.
Apted took her Grade 5 class
to the nearby Japanese School.
AISA students brought flowers,
wrote cards and made 1,000 pa-
per cranes for peace and brought
flowers, Ms. Apted said.
For the 41 Japanese students,
no one they knew was killed or
injured, but some students had
missing relatives. Ms. Apted
said, “Grade 5 students showed
real empathy and understanding
about this terrible situation.”
The Japanese food sale on
March 31, organized by Miha
Emman, the mother of Japanese
raised AED 10,553 for the Japa-
nese Red Cross. Japanese foods
such as sushi rolls, chirashi rolls,
tempura musubi and soumen
were sold.

Threepeat for Girls Varsity B’ball Team

JV Team Takes 2nd at ISAC
by Jessica van der Walt
(Grade 11, Sports Editor)
Threepeat! After overcoming
debilitating injuries to several
players, the girls varsity basket-
ball team clinched their third (Top to Bottom) Senior Paris Patras entertains the crowd. Scenes from
straight ISAC tournament vic- AISAFest. SoccerFest winners. / Photos courtesy Mr. Baron.
tory, winning almost all of their by Tanya Tarazi Dutch café chain Mockamore.
tournament games. The JV team (Grade 11, News!) All the proceeds will be con-
clinched the silver at the ISAC More than 2,000 middle school tributed to the new AISA Foun-
tournament in Kuwait, after and high school students came dation to help fund next year’s
losing in the finals by only a few to the fourth annual and largest- AISAFest and improvements to
points. ever AISAFest, a three-day soc- the school’s facilities.
The varsity team overcame an cer tournament and carnival, on Mr. Holloway and Mr. Syno-
early season injury to guard Tam- March 22 to March 24. ground organized the soccer
sin Nunan (Grade12) early in This year’s AISAFest was tournament SoccerFest, which
the five-month season, winning “twice as big” as last year’s, included Middle School, High
almost all their games. according to Ms. Sabrina Nurse, School and teachers teams.
“The team improved and devel- who organized the event with High School winners were the
oped immensely throughout the Ms. Al Jenaibi and Ms. Sam- girls yellow team and the male
five-month season,” said Coach bola. Not only were there more teacher’s team, while the Middle
Mr. Synoground. people than last year, there were School winners were the girls
Center Nelmari Holloway 29 different games and activi- white team and the boys light
(Grade 12) agreed: “I’m so ties on both sides of the school, blue team.
proud of all we accomplished be- with lower prices in response to “The games were competi-
cause I can truly say that I never people’s wishes. tive yet fun, it definitely showed
expected to win ISAC especially “This year’s AISAFest outdid school spirit,” said Jordan
since we had complications with the rest of them,” said Steffanie Murray (Grade 11). “It was fun
team members not being able to “It was a good season and we Sanders (Grade 11). The most participating.”
“The girls did an amazing job
travel to Oman.” had a lot of fun.” She said this popular games were the rodeo Organizers are expecting even
I’m proud of each and every one
The team fulfilled Mr. Syno- season’s greatest achievements bull, the dunk tank and the giant more improvements for next
of them,” said Tamsin Nunan.
ground’s both of his preseason were to coming second place and slide, she said. year’s AISA Fest, such as pos-
“The team’s hard work and unity
goals: beating the American Brit- playing as team. The parents of Abdulla Al sibly holding the carnival on a
definitely paid off.”
ish Academy-Oman (ABA), and Center Nadia Jacobson (Grade Romaithi (Grade 10), Nasser Al Saturday. “I honestly [do] it for
The JV team nearly beat Qatar
bringing home the third ISAC 10) said, “It was a long, tiring Romaithi (Grade 10) and Saif the kids,” said Ms. Nurse. “Ev-
Academy, but wound up los-
trophy in a row. They also won season but we will miss it now Al Romaithi (Grade 12) were eryone loves AISAFest!”
ing the title game by only a few
the ISAC Sportsmanship Award. that it is over.” the main sponsors, in addition to
points. Co-coach Ms. Levi said,

What’s Sustainable About MS MUN Brings “Heat” Senior Made Memories Top Student Artists at Girls Varsity Soccer Wins
• • • •
Masdar City? P2 on Climate Change P3 on Ferrari World Trip P4 AISA Art Show P5 Bronze in Europe P6
 2 A I S A ’ s
MS: Sustainability
in Action at
Masdar City
Artist’s rendering of Masdar City.
/ Photo courtesy Adrian Smith +
Gordon Gill Architecture.
“The Express” Masthead
Our Mission:
The Express produces an up-to-
date, fun, fresh, fierce newspaper
that will be liked by many, cussed
by some, read by all!
Staff Advisers
Mr. Baron, Mr. Kandil
AISA’s Voice
Editor: Shaika Al Qassimi
Mona Al Amry
Fatma Al Khazraji
Sheikha Al Meraikhi
Arts & Culture
Editor: Maitha Al Mansoori
Hana Al Ameri
Rawdha Al Mansouri
Menat El Abd
Cosmopolitan
Editor: Farah Al Suwaidi
Hanna Al Hassen
Shamma Al Khouri
Oshba Al Murar
News!
Editor: Rana Alsaadi
Alyazia Al Hamed
Farida Nassar
Tanya Tarazi
Sport:
Editor: Jessica van der Walt
Ameilia Fox
Paula Fronda
Aria Pavlic
Copyright © 2011 AISA
No portion of this newspaper or related of girls.
online content may be reproduced for
public or comercial purposes without
prior written permission.
by Shaika Al Qassimi
(Grade 11, AISA’v Voice Editor)
Grade 8 students learned about
sustainability on a March trip
to Masdar City, the world's first
zero carbon emission city located
in Khalifa City A.
When Masdar City is sched-
uled to be completed in the
2020s, it is supposed to have
zero carbon emissions since the
city uses renewable energy, has
recycling programs and does not
produce carbon gas, according to
their website.
"This trip is important be-
cause it helps the kids be aware
about sustainability," said Ms.
Sophomore Alia Youssef’s poem “Sky of Love,” written about her father. /
Courtesy Abu Dhabi Tempo.
Construction of Pools
Nears Completion
by Sheikha Al Meraikhi
(Grade 11)
Construction is finishing up on
the two long-awaited new pools
behind the new
gym, and are
scheduled to
be fully open
by next year,.
One pool is for
the Pre-K and
Kindergarten
students, and
is half-a-meter
deep. The
other pool is
constructed
for Elementary
and Secondary The new pool behind the new gym now has water in it.
Schools, which is
/ Photo courtesy Dr. Jones.
1.2-2 meters deep.
Construction on the pools
started at the end of the summer
vacation, and is now completed.
Heaters and chillers are being
installed. Changing rooms and
walls, which still need to be con- skill to have,” said Director Dr.
structed, will protect the privacy
Note: Shaika Al Qassimi (Grade 11) is the
new editor of AISA’s Voice.
V O i C E
Students Hope to
Schwartz, who organized the
March 22-23 trip with Ms. Meu-
nier, Mrs. Rasmussen and Mr.
Brooks.
Inside Masdar City, which Help Campus Staff
started construction in 2006, so
far there are only universities and
Nearly 20 Workers
hotels. Transportation is by the
groundbreaking personal rapid
Live in Cramped Conditions
transit vehicles – or podcars –
but students were not able to ride by Mona Al Amry (Grade 12)
them. Many students support raising
Still, students enjoyed the trip. awareness and funds to aid the
"This trip was fun and exciting,” the 18 workers who live in the
said Sara Al Romaithi. “I learned caravans and buildings on school
that Masdar is a different [kind campus.
of] city." Four workers live in the cara-
van, nine in the two rooms next
to the mosque, two in the room
next to the science lab, one in
the carpentry room and one in
a building near the soccer field,
student organizers said.
The workers include five
school bus drivers, two security
guards, two maintenance work-
ers, two gardeners, two office
assistants, one plumber, one
technician, one carpenter, one
uniform shop worker and one
maintenance supervisor.
The main student organiz-
ers are seniors Mona Al Amry,
Muzoon Al Hameli and Fatma
Slacking Seniors
Cite ‘Senioritis’
Image courtesy Skreened t-shirt company.
by Fatma Al Khazraji (Grade 12)
Sitting in class, every senior
seems to be hard at work. How-
ever, the work they are trying
to finish is due next class, and it
was assigned two weeks ago.
Why are they doing it at the
last minute? “Seniors are loaded
For the rest of this school year, with work, university applica-
only Elementary School students tions, candidate weeks and se-
can swim in the pool as an after- mester two is the busiest semes-
ter,” said Mariam Al Mannaie.
school activity.
Many seniors also claim
to have the “disease” called
“senioritis.” Symptoms include:
laziness and an over-excessive
wearing of Juicy sweatpants and
sweatshirts, according to Urban
Dictionary. It also includes a lack
of studying, repeated absences,
and daily detentions. For many,
Admin Corner: Keep Working
Hard in the Home Stretch
by Mr. Godley
Secondary School Principal
But next year swimming is It is amazing to me that April is
scheduled to be part of P.E. here already! What an outstand-
classes and the school could have ing three quarters we have had
a swimming team. this year.
“Swimming is an important As I reflect back on the great
things that have happened so far,
Jones. “Some students are lucky it is hard not to start dreaming
to have swimming pools in their of summer and the long hot days
homes but others don’t.” that I will spend in Iowa with my
family. STOP! We can’t fall in to
the trap of finishing early and not
The Express
April 2011
Al Khazraji, and junior Latifa Al
Khumairy. These four students
are leading a campaign to raise
awareness and funds to provide
the workers with a better life-
style, such as buying new furni-
ture and cleaning their homes.
AISA's parent company
Educational Services Overseas
Limited (ESOL) is responsible
for housing improvements, AISA
administrators said.
ESOL's website promotes
AISA's “modern, fully equipped,
and air-conditioned” classrooms
and labs, and says “ESOL
schools are among the finest
educational institutions in the
region.”
Student organizers said tenta-
tive fundraising plans include
bake sales, donation boxes and
free dress days.
the only cure is graduation.
However, teachers and ad-
ministrators do not accept it as
an excuse. “It's a choice seniors
make and it's an excuse for be-
ing lazy,” said Mr. Waldman,
Humanities teacher. Director Dr.
Jones emphasized the impact on
grades. “Grades will affect where
you go to university and that will
affect your life,” he said.
Motivating seniors for the last
few months is the biggest chal-
lenge. Mr. Waldman said that
teachers could be more exciting
in class. But with graduation in
sight, it is an uphill battle for
teachers.
One phrase by Muzoon Al
Hameli seems to be catching on:
“Due tomorrow? Do tomorrow.”
ending the year on a good note.
We have done a lot, but there is
a lot left to do and in order for us
to truly enjoy our vacation, it has
to be well earned. So when you
find yourself daydreaming and
drifting off, remind yourself that
there is not that much time left in
our school year.
Work hard, enjoy it and live in
the moment. After all, it is the
best way to set things up for a
great summer vacation.
 N E W S !
The Express
April 2011
3

Popular Abu Dhabi Youth Rock Band Wins 2nd at Yas Rock Factory
by Farida Nassar (Grade 11)
Osprey – Philippe Trottier’s melodic
metal core band – won second place and
5,000 AED in The Battle of the Bands at
Yas Island on March 10.
Though the winning band received AED
20,000 and a slot at the 2011 Yasalam con-
cert series, Osprey members said they were
still pleased with the outcome.
Instead of them begging to play at
events, Trottier said: “[O]ur repu-
tation has grown significantly
where people hosting gigs
now contact us to play.”
The band members
are AISA senior
Philippe Trottier
on guitar, along with his friends
Mannan Ibrahim (vocals), Palash
(vocals) and Joe (drums/master beat-
ing/backing vocals).
Trottier, who has been playing the
guitar since a child (and was profiled
in February's Express), enjoys being
a member of Osprey. “We really
have fun every time we meet up,” he
said. “We all share the same passion
for music.”
Osprey practices once a week, and
when there is an upcoming show,
they practice three times a week with
practices lasting up to eight hours.
But their success may be short-lived,
as Trottier is graduating and will
be moving to California in
the fall to go to the
Above: Osprey, the
metalcore band fea-
turing senior Philippe Trot-
tier (second from left), with their
check for AED 5,000 after coming in
second place at the Yas Rock Factory. /
Photo courtesy Philippe Trottier.
Musician's Institute. Osprey will have to
find a replacement guitarist.
Trottier said he will keep in touch with
the bandmates. “It would be a shame to
lose the band and our friendship.”
Stay tuned to see a reunion tour when
Trottier returns to Abu Dhabi.
Biz
Students
Learn
‘Green’ Audits
by Alyazia Economics teacher Mr. McK-
Al Hamed enzie, whose students partici-
(Grade 11) pated in the seminar, said:
Many people are "Most of the students who
oblivious about the issue participated were interested in
of "climate change" and its business, and have future plans
long-term effects. When people in studying business.”
pollute the environment, it puts Students had two assign-
our lives at risk. ments. The first involved stu-
For this reason, Emirati dents in groups of three to write
consulting company Tatweer down questions that they would
trained nearly 45 juniors and to ask Quality, Health, Safety
seniors in a pilot project on the and Environment Manager of an
basics of environmental issues ISO 14001 certified company.
for businesses in late February. The second was to give a
This project, Coding Green 15-minute presentation to
Gene, included a three-hour students from Grades 3-8 on
seminar spread over three days environmental issues.
from February 21-23. Junior Amira Anthonijsz said
Students from the IB program it was an interesting experience.
and business classes learned “It makes us more aware of
about environmental auditing pollution and its dangers to the
programs called ISO 14001 and environment.”
ISO 19011.

MS Sports Night a Hit

MS Model UN ‘Heats Up’ Debate
Over Climate Change
by Rana Alsaadi
(Grade 11, News! Editor)
Countries should set and test
their own carbon emissions stan-
dards and encourage recycling
programs, decided 10 students
representing global powers at
the third annual Middle School
Model United Nations (MUN)
conference on March 21.
Since the 1920s, MUN and its
predecessors have simulated the
United Nations' General Assem-
bly, according to their website.
More than 400,000 middle
school, high school and universi-
ty students worldwide participate
every year.
“MUN permits students to
practice their public speaking, re-
search, writing and debate skills
– skills that are both important
academically and socially,” said
Ms. Schuler, a Grade 6 English
and Humanities teacher who
organized the conference, held
in the Drama room, with IB-2
student Shanzeh Nazar.
Four middle school students
participated: Grade 7 students
Yara Aghabi (UK) and Haneul
Chun (UAE), and Grade 8 stu-
dents Thussheeta Singh (India)
and Maya Yang (China). IB stu-
by Mr. McGrady
On March 10, 60
dodgeball, basketball,
and soccer.
Middle School students
congregated in the gym
Teams were co-ed
and the Middle School
to get down to some Leadership group was
dents included serious fun at Co-ed proud to say sportsman-
Shanzeh Nazar Sports Night. ship and fun ruled the
(note passer),
Quosain Me-
Students participated night.
mon (Chair), in a round robin tour- Thanks to everyone
Mohamed nament of ping pong, who came out to play!
Shaker (USA),
Haider Shaker
(Mexico),
Sophomore’s Poem Published
Faaiz Rehman in AD Tempo Mag
(Switzerland)
by Mr. Baron liked it and said that I
and Omar
Khalil (Aus- When sophomore Alia have a lot of talent!”
tralia). Youssef found out that Youssef’s English
Ms. Schuler her father was suffer- teacher Ms. Morkin
was proud of ing from back problems said she was “very
her students.
that caused nerve dam- proud” of Youssef, and
“The students
were well age, she wanted to help had her sign a copy.
prepared,” she him feel better. “It’s exciting to see a
said. “I espe-
Middle School Model UN participants (from left to right):
Having written po- student be so self-moti-
cially loved Ms. Schuler, Thussheeta Singh (Grade 8), Yara Aghabi (Grade etry since Grade 3, she vated when it comes to
watching them 7), Maya Yang (Grade 8), Haneul Chun (Grade 7). / Photo
quickly typed “Sky of creative writing,” Ms.
collaborate and courtesy Mr. Baron.
debate with Love,” reprinted on the Morkin said.
High school IB egate), Chun won Best Dressed, opposite page, from the The picture is by and
students.” Singh won the Humanitarian magazine Abu Dhabi of Youssef’s friend Sara
Students enjoyed the experi- Award, and Yang won Best Use
of Parliamentary Procedure.
Tempo’s March 16-31 Mahmoud (Grade 10).
ence. Singh said, “I was inter-
“I love debating,” said Aghabi. issue. This is Youssef’s
ested about world issues and I
love debating.” “I would definitely do this again “My dad was shocked second published poem,
All four Middle School stu- next year and I hope to continue knowing that this the first in AISA’s po-
dents received awards. Aghabi doing it in High School.” poem was about him,” etry book.
won the Gavel Award (Best Del- Youssef said. “He really
 4

Seniors
C O S M O The Express
April 2011

‘Fly Like a G6’

on Coaster at
Ferrari World
Right: Karim Abu Eicha takes over the wheel
from Muzi Fele. Far Right: Seniors jumped
for joy at the world’s-fastest Formula Rossa
roller coaster.
/ Photos courtesy Hanna Al Hassen.

by Hanna Al Hassen (Grade 12)
Seniors enjoyed their class trip
to Ferrari World, organized by the
Senior Committee and held on
March 16.
Nearly 100 seniors and teach-
ers enjoyed the 20 rides at the
amusement park, which opened in
November 2010.
Though the G-Force ride was
under repairs, they made up for
it by riding the world’s fastest
roller coaster Formula Rossa, 3D
movie-rides and a water ride, and
visiting Ferrari history museums.
Attendees also ate in restaurants
and hung out.
Almost every senior went on
Formula Rossa, which accelerates
up to 240 kmh. “Formula Rossa
was my favorite I went on it more
than five times!” said Ayesha Al
Braiki. “There weren’t enough
crazy games but the group we
went with made it fun!”
Ms. Van Hoogstraten, secretary
and chaperone, agreed: “It was
magnificent, the best trip I’ve ever
been on. The students were well
behaved and I’d be proud to take
them anywhere with me.”
The only negative comments
from seniors were about the food
and that there were only two
roller coasters. Otherwise, seniors
enjoyed one of the last big group
activities before graduation.
Hamad Al Fahim said: “I loved
that we all got to spend time and
have fun together.”

NYU AD Exhibits Original Artwork
from First Islamic-Inspired Comic Book
by Farah Al Suwaidi (Grade 12)
IB students enjoyed a March
field trip to NYU Abu Dhabi
to see an exhibit of original
artwork from “The 99,” the first
group of comic book superhe-
roes of an Islamic archetype.
Created by Kuwaiti clinical
psychologist Dr. Naif Al-Muta-
wa in 2007, “The 99” is based
on Islamic history and traditions
and teaches positive images
about Islam, though promotes
universal values, according to its
website. tend the field trip but did see Dr.
There Al-Mutawa at a recent lecture at
have been NYU Abu Dhabi, said:
25 issues “The purpose of the trip was to
distrib- demonstrate a working creative
uted in initiative that combines global
North and cultural awareness. I’m real-
America, ly impressed he found a creative
Europe, solution to a tricky situation.”
South The popularity of the comic
East Asia has inspired a theme park in
and the Kuwait, and upcoming televi-
Middle sion series available in North
East. America and a comic book mini-
In 2010, series which The 99 join forces
U.S. Presi- with the DC Comics' Justice
dent Barack Obama recognized League.
Dr. Al-Mutawa for his contribu- Members of the school's Man-
tions to improving the dialogue ga Club were inspired. Nahil
between Muslim societies and Memon (Grade 11) said, “The
the United States. storyline of how it all began was
“It’s fantastic to have an Arab very interesting.”
and Muslim comic artist who Dorien Van Heerden (Grade
was publicly recognized by 11) agreed: “The paintings of
Obama,” said Mr. Mirza, who the comic book characters on
supervised the trip with Ms. the wall were extraordinary. The
Fleming and Mr. Baron. details were just -- wow!”
Secondary School Principal Note: You can download free
Mr. Godley, who did not at- copies: www.the99.org
Students Celebrated
‘La Francophonie’ on March 20
par/by Kebure Assefa et/and Samuel Jovanovic
(Grade 11 / IB-1 French)
La Francophonie est The “Francophonie” is the
l’ensemble des états dans le union of states around the world
monde qui font usage du français that use the French language and
et de ses valeurs universelles. its universal values.
L’OIF (Organisation Interna- The IOF (International Or-
tioanle de la Francophonie) a été ganization of “Francophonie”)
fondée en 1970 sur la base du was founded in 1970 under the
Traité de Niamey (Niger). Niamey Treaty (Niger).
Elle agit dans le respect de la The IOF acts with respect of
diversité culturelle et linguis- the cultural and linguistic diver-
tique, elle est au service de la sity; and to promote the French
promotion de la langue française, language, peace and sustainable
de la paix et du développement development.
durable. The OIF consists of 75 member
Elle consiste en 75 Etats mem- states, where 56 are French
bres, dont 56 états francophones speaking states and 19 are cor-
et 19 observateurs. respondents around the world.
Tous les 20 mars, la francoph- Every 20th of March, “fran-
onie est célébrée pour promou- cophonie” is celebrated, within
voir, dans les écoles, le dével- schools, to promote linguistic
oppement culturel francophone and cultural development of the
et l’usage du français. French language.

London’s Globe Theatre

Conducts Drama Workshops
by Shamma Al Khouri
(Grade 11)
Seniors taking Drama and
juniors taking Public Speak-
ing received a worthwhile
workshop on theatre tech-
niques thanks to a visit from
London’s famous Globe
theatre troupe on March 20.
The theatre group was in
Abu Dhabi for one week to
perform the production of
Members of the world-renwoned Shakespeare’s Globe theatre group conducted Shakespeare’s MacBeth as
workshops for Drama students. Staff included director Bill Buckfield (second from part of the Abu Dhabi Festi-
left) and producer Chris Stafford (center). / Photo courtesy Mrs. Pittman-Jones. val. Director Bill Buckhurst
and producer Chris Stafford
joined actors to demonstrate
drama techniques to the 26
students.
The seniors are study-
ing the tragedy MacBeth in
Drama, and the theatre group
several scenes from the play.
Mr. Gallichan said, “These
were active, practical work-
shops, which were enjoyed
by all and gave a new insight
into Shakespeare study.”
The 13 girls and 13 boys
had a great time learning
different ways of study-
ing Shakespeare. Latifa Al
Khamairi (Grade 11) said,
“It was so interesting to see
how you can change the
meaning of a line just by
saying it in a different tone.”
Aya Al Rawahi (Grade 12)
agreed. “ It was fun and use-
ful activities and techniques
they used, it helped us un-
derstand Shakespeare.”
Mr. Gallichan said he
hopes to involve AISA stu-
dents for next year’s visit.
 The Express
April 2011 A r t s & C u l t u r e 5
AISA’s Artists on Display at Annual Art Show

by Rawdha Al Mansouri (Grade 11) Marija Milosevic, one of two IB-2 Art students along
Students and staff saw the best work of Abu Dhabi's with Sean Van Hauwaert, displayed her pieces includ-
young artists before they were in museums at the fifth ing charcoal drawings and wire sculptures.
annual AISA Art Show on April 12. Milosevic, who works with the theme of nostalgia,
More than 100 pieces of art were presented, repre- presented pieces that showed her artistic development.
senting every Middle and High School Art class, ac- “I believe my pieces however have more meaning
cording to High School Art teachers Ms. Pegg and Ms. as I interpret them to the people,” she said. “Although
Emerick. IB students' work was in the rooms above the anyone is free to look at them in their own way and
new gym. Larger pieces – including Mr. McGrady's create their interpretation which is the beauty of art."
Middle School Art classes' Space Rocks – were also Steffanie Sanders, an IB-1 Art student, was also ex-
displayed. Smaller pieces spanned the third floor. cited to display her paintings, clay sculptures, collages
and pencil drawings.
(Clockwise from top left) High School Art students attended a field trip to the
RSTW exhibit on Manarat Al Saadiyat on Saadiyat Island. IB-2 Art student
Marija Milosevic and her piece “Two Worlds.” A student stands behind
junior (and Express reporter) Tanya Tarazi’s half-dress, with papier-mâché
organs, which illustrate how corsets damaged women’s bodies. IB-2 Art
student Sean Van Hauwaert organizing his paintings, which take a dark look
at nature. Sophomore Kathrin Harb’s painting “Power of Prayer.”

Author Nick Toczek

Holds Writing Workshops
Author Nick Toczek con-
ducted writing workshops with
Elementary School, Middle
School and Grade 9-10 students
in the library on March 16-17.
Librarian Mrs. Morley said,
“He taught the students that
words are meant to be spoken
and preformed.”
/ Photo courtesy Mrs. Morley.

TSM Rocks Yas Island Ancient Egypt Comes to Life at MS

by Menat El Abd (Grade 11)
Acclaimed rock band Thirty
Seconds To Mars made their
Middle East debut at the Flash
Forum on March 11.
“The American three piece
have been rocking packed arenas
around the world and [brought]
their ‘This Is Mars’ album tour
show to the Capital,” wrote
“Time Out Abu Dhabi.” The
concert turned out to be great!
Students said it was one of the
best concerts that Yas Island has
ever presented.
Junior Joumana Asfour said,
“It was one of the best concerts
I [have] ever been to, however
the venue was small and it was
crowded.”
Junior Afi Baaqi, agreed, say-
ing: “It was crowded, also, the
venue wasn’t good. But overall
it was good concert with great
music.”
Students said they liked all of
their songs, especially “Hurri-
cane,” a dark love song.
‘Night at the Museum’
by Maitha Al Mansoori
(Grade 11, Arts & Culture Editor)
Sixth grade students brought
ancient Egyptian culture back
to life at the “A Night at the Mu-
seum” exhibition in mid-March.
Eighty-one students demon-
strated to staff and parents their
research reports on Ancient
Egypt in the form of a museum
exhibition on the school's sec-
ond floor on March 14. Students
made artifacts such as bowls,
small statues, mummies and
canopic jars.
English and Humanities teach-
ers Ms. Schuler, Ms. Lawson
and Ms. Kelly organized the
exhibition, and were impressed
by the exhibition. “There was
an overwhelmingly positive
reaction to the night,” said Ms.
Schuler. “It was a lot of fun and
I believe students, teachers, and
parents were all very proud of
the hard work displayed.”
Students enjoyed making
and presenting the exhibition.
“I enjoyed it because I saw the
nice sculptures or artifacts,” said
Mohamed Al Mansoori. “We put
lots of effort on it.”
Last year there was a similar
but informal event, without
primary source artifacts or a
museum exhibit. Next year's
museum night is expected to
be similar to the success of this
year's.
Ms. Schuler said: “We were
very happy with the results and
I'm sure AISA can look forward
to a similar event next year.”

Student Ambassadors Serve School Check Out the 250+

by Hana Al Ameri (Grade 11)
Nineteen high school stu-
dents make up the new Student
Ambassadors program, set up
by the high school guidance
counselor's office to serve as
role models and representatives
of the school.
Ambassadors welcome new
families and students, give cam-
pus tours, are "buddies" to new
students and assist with school
functions like Career Day and
college fairs, according to Ms.
Merrell, the high school guid-
ance counselor.
Rabia Omar (Grade 9) said, “I
joined the ambassadors program
because I wanted to represent
the school and my grade. I like
to challenge myself and experi-
ence new things.”
Ambassadors must apply to
the program and maintain a
2.0 GPA. Ms. Merrell said she
would prefer if the Ambassadors
are not committed to time-
intensive programs like Student
Council. “This should be their Arabic Books in the
Arabic Department
priority," she said.
So far, student ambassadors
like their job. Omar is a “Book
Buddy” for two Elementary
By Khalid Al Mubarak contain 255 books, including
School students, which involves
(Grade 11) fiction, non-fiction, biographies,
meeting with them one-on-one
Express Contributor translated international books
to help them with a challeng-
The Arabic Department now and Islamic texts and books.
ing book. After nine weeks the
has an Arabic literature section The level of the books ranges
students present on their books.
with more than 250 books. from Grades 6 to 12. The Arabic
"Being an ambassador is fun,
It provides students with teachers are very pleased with
we get to help at events and help
the finest in Arabic works and this initiative because it will help
the elementary kids with their
writings. The new section will students in their studies.
reading," Omar said.
 The Express
6 S P O R T April 2011

Girls Varsity Soccer Wins Bronze at Portgual ISA

School Succeeds on First-Ever European Tour
by Aria Pavlic (Grade 11)
The Girls Varsity Soccer team girls
came in third place at the ISA tourna-
ment held in Faro, Portugal in March.
The JV team also won third place at the
ISAC tournament in Dubai in January.
AISA had a hard-fought tournament
against the other four teams – all from
Europe: Spain, Greece and Italian
teams from Rome and Milan.
On the first day, AISA finished second
after three shutouts again Milan (3-0),
Spain (1-0) Spain, and Athens (3-0),
losing only to Rome (0-4). On the sec-
ond day, AISA played in the semifinals
against Athens but lost a close match
1-0.
“I know we could have beat them
but we were really tired from the five
games we played the other day,” said
striker Afi Baaqi (Grade 11).
On the last day, AISA won the bronze
after thrashing Rome 3-0. AISA also
won a bet they had made with Coach
Mr. Deschamps to jump in a freezing
cold pool at 3:50 a.m.
Players said they had fun on the
trip. Caitlin Taylor (Grade 12) said:
“The highlight of it was playing tackle
football barefoot with my feet frozen
with the team and watching coach jump
in the freezing pool.” Mr. Deschamps
said, “We didn’t win but we had a great
time.”
Athletic Director Mr. Synoground
said of the JV girls, “I was so proud of
[them]. They are very young team and
played outstandingly against girls a lot
older than them.”

Right: The girls were so excited for their medal that they formed a pyramid.
Team (ABC order): Sarah Al Zaabi (Grade 10), Zein Atout (Grade 12), Afi Baaqi (Grade 11), Lilya Boukornia (Grade 12), Danielle
Cobrand (Co-Captain, Grade 11), Ameilia Fox (Co-Captain, Grade 11), Jamie Jackson (Grade 10), Kairine Maharajh (Grade 11),
Mariam Nabulsi (Grade 11), Claudia Oswald (Grade 11), Aria Pavlic (Grade 11), Caitlin Taylor (Grade 12), Claire Taylor (Grade
10), Xenia Williams (Grade 11).

Badminton Teams Look Boys JV Basketball Wins Silver at ISAC

Sharp in Early Games
by Paula Fronda (Grade 12)
After an end to basketball
season, comes Badminton
season.
Though newcomer and suc-
cessor of last year’s coach,
Ms. McLeod is the new head
coach of the JV and Varsity
Girls badminton team with the
help of Mr. Berzins. Mr. Crowe
is now heading the JV and
Varsity boys’ badminton team
with Economics teacher Mr.
McKenzie.
Varsity player Nicole Gurgel
(Grade 12) said that everyone
in the badminton team has a lot
of potential. The season started
out with a meet in ACS and
will ended with an ISAC tour-
nament in Dubai or Abu Dhabi.
/ Photos courtesy Mr. Baron.
Varsity Places 4th at ISAC After Challenging Season
by Ameilia Fox (Grade 11)
The Boys JV Basketball team
took home the silver at the ISAC
Tournament in Kuwait, while
the varsity team had a challeng-
ing but successful season.
After a 12-6 regular season re-
cord, the JV team made it to the
ISAC finals against bitter rival
the Universal American School
in Dubai (UAS), but wound up
losing by one point.
“It's one thing to catch up
JV Team: Ahmad Abu Hijleh (Grade 10), Ali Al Masaood (Grade 10),
from being 12 points down, but
Eddy Dedic (Grade 10), Riad Mawlawi (Grade 9), Takumi Morozumi
to lose by one point sucks,” said (Grade 9), Michael Najjar (Grade 11), Mito Owino (Grade 7), Zaid Sala-
captain Zaid Salamah (Grade mah (Grade 10), Zeid Sharif (Grade 9), Tarak Tarazi (Grade 9), Ahmad
10). “But we've all improved as Yacout (Grade 10), Mohamed Al Shaibani (Grade 10)
players and as a team.”
AISA split the two-game regu-
lar season series with UAS, but
lost twice to them in the round
robin ISAC tournament, and
again in the finals.
Coach Mr. Hansard said,
“They definitely were our most
challenging opponent at the
tourney and throughout the
year.”
Half of the starters had re-
turned from last year, and Mr.
Hansard said he expects many
players to form a solid core for Varsity Team: Quosain Memon (Grade 11), Fares Salamah (Grade 11),
the varsity team next year. Kebure Asefa (Grade 11), Mike Al Zoebie (Grade 11), Evan Carstens
Meanwhile, the varsity team (Grade 12), Taymour Bouran (Grade 11), Josh Sanger (Grade 12),
improved throughout the season Samuel Jovanovic (Grade 11), Kevin van Hoogstraten (Grade 11)
after only two players returned improve a little.” year, and will focus more on
from last year's team. The team Still, the team had an impres- rebounding on free throw and
placed a disappointing fourth in sive four-game winning streak, outside shooting.
the ISAC Tournament in Oman. including a victory over the "Next year the team will ben-
Captain Fares Salamah (Grade American Community School, efit from more experience and
11) said, “I think we were all which was the number one seed more talent coming up from the
good friends and the chemistry in the ECC Tournament. JV level,” he said. "The team
was there but we lacked some Coach Mr. Pike said he also needs strong leadership
skill and I think everyone can expects a stronger team next from the senior class."

Boys Varsity, JV Soccer Teams Win ISAC Gold

-- and Still Want More!
by Paula Fronda (Grade 12) a lot but we all love the game it’s one [great] team,” said
Even after five months of too much for us to stop play- Chris Kuyken (Grade 12).
soccer and winning the ISAC ing any soccer.” “We worked hard for every
Tournament at AISA, the During the season, coaches bit of it.”
Boys Varsity Soccer team still provided them with intramu- The Boys JV team also
wants more. ral games and activities to won the ISAC Tournament
“I love the game, I can’t get keep them prepared. at the Universal American
enough of it,” said captain Players were proud of their School in Dubai in January,
Abdul Quddos Al Aghbari gold medal performance. “It’s as reported in last month's
(Grade 12). “Five months is my first year in AISA, and Express.
Varsity Team (ABC order): Karim Abu Eicha (Grade 12), Pierre Achhab (Grade 12), Abdul Quddos Al Aghbari (Grade
12), Mohamed Al Baijan (Grade 11), Ebrahim Al Harbi (Grade 12), Saif Al Hilali (Grade 12), Ali Al Hosani (Grade 12),
Saad Al Khanbashi (Grade 12), Sultan Al Mansoori (Grade 12), Salem Al Neaimi (Grade 12), Ahmad Hamdan (Grade
11), Sam Jovanovic (Grade 11), Chris Kuyken (Grade 12), Nick Overkamp (Grade 11) and Rami Shoukih (Grade 9).