The pleasure of reading | How to motivate our children to read?

Mar 24, 2023

We have recently celebrated Book Week at WISS. As every year, our students have been able to see and acquire new books to read at home. But, what if my son doesn't like to read… what can I do?

Getting a child to read on their own initiative is one of the most difficult challenges that adult readers have. Electronic devices (mobile phones, tablets, computers) are currently helping to make reading an increasingly difficult activity.

Reading, and especially reading comprehension, is a basic tool for the acquisition of increasingly complex learning. Reading comprehensively facilitates the organization of thought, favors a better understanding of reality and contributes to the management of emotions and behavior.

WISS Launches Series of University Fairs

Mar 23, 2023

The Western International School of Shanghai (WISS) has a unique responsibility to prepare our students for success in a globalized world. One of the ways that we do this is by hosting university fairs, which provide an opportunity for students to learn about different higher education institutions and further explore potential academic and career paths.

The benefits of hosting university fairs are vast and varied. These fairs allow students to gain exposure to various universities worldwide. This is particularly important for our internationally diverse student community, as many of our students are interested in pursuing higher education opportunities outside their home country. Through hosting university fairs, students can connect with representatives from institutions and learn about programs and offerings tailored to their interests and aspirations.

Digital Dilemma: Striking a Balance for Today's Tech-Savvy Kids

Mar 23, 2023

Parenting has never been easy. But the era of fast-developing technology with smartphones, online games and social media brings a lot more challenges to raising modern children.

One of the most debated topics among parents today is screen time. How much screen time is too much? How technology can affect children’s development? Where is the line between online and offline? Parents and professionals from children-related fields are trying to find answers to these burning hot questions.

WISS Inspires Greatness and Innovation

Mar 9, 2023

The MYP Personal Project is an essential part of the Middle Years Programme (MYP) and provides students with an opportunity to demonstrate the knowledge, research, and problem-solving skills that they have acquired during their studies. It encourages students to take ownership of their learning, allowing them to pursue an individual investigation on a topic that interests them. During the project, students should use the MYP's key skills to develop a product or outcome that showcases their understanding of the topic.

This could be a physical object such as a model, a digital resource such as a video, or a written work such as an essay or report. The goal of the MYP Personal Project is to provide a meaningful and challenging learning experience for students, helping them to develop essential critical thinking, problem-solving, and research skills in an enjoyable and engaging way.

WISS Learning Environments Unlock Student Potential

Mar 3, 2023

Educators often refer to the Learning Environment as the Third Teacher. This is evidence of the importance schools place on considering how the environment they create supports learning and teaching.

The learning environment in a school is vital to student's success, both in the classroom and beyond. Schools that implement effective learning environments help foster a sense of belonging, respect, and confidence. A positive learning environment allows students to feel comfortable and safe and focus on their studies. It also helps create an engaging atmosphere for teachers and students, encouraging collaboration, communication, and respect for one another.

WISS Book Week | A Celebration of Literacy

Feb 24, 2023

Celebrating literacy is an important way to recognize the power of reading and writing in improving people’s lives. Celebrations of literacy can take many forms and can happen on a variety of scales. At the Western International School of Shanghai we celebrate literacy every day but once per year we dedicate an entire week focused on literacy. The WISS Book Week is a school-wide celebration consisting of various activities that promote literacy. The week encompasses parent reading sessions, Book Swap Stations, Door Decoration, Snuggle Up and Read Day, and Character Dress-Up Parade, all inspired by favorite authors and books.

Top University Offers for WISS Graduates

Feb 17, 2023

The Western International School of Shanghai (WISS) is pleased to share that WISS Graduates from the Class of 2023 have received early offers from some of the world’s top universities.

University acceptance depends on various factors, including academic performance, extracurricular activities, letters of recommendation, and the applicant's personal statement. Generally, schools prefer applicants with good grades and proof of a strong work ethic. Many universities also prioritize those with community service experience, research projects, or leadership roles within clubs and organizations.

HOW PARENTS CAN SUPPORT THEIR CHILDREN WITH SUCCESSFULLY TRANSITIONING INTO A NEW SCHOOL

Feb 11, 2023

Helpful 7 tips on how parents can support their children with successfully transitioning into a new school.

1. Talk to your child about their expectations for the new school and what they are looking forward to. This will help you understand their mindset and what they are hoping to gain from the experience.

2. Help them research the new school and familiarize themselves with the campus and facilities. This will help them feel more prepared and comfortable when they start school.