EARLY YEARS (EYP)
Mr Mark Nguyen
EAL – Teacher
What better way to end the school year, than to showcase it with an Exhibition. During this day, the Tesla EYP EAL children presented posters summarising topics learnt this term. Characteristics of Livings Things and Animals (Big & Small) were on display for all proud parents, family, and the Tesla Community to see.
Project and Presentation works are a great opportunity for children to hone their teamwork, practice, time management and presentation skills. Additionally, these exercises also help to improve confidence, in particular public speaking skills, which will start children early on the road to their own future successes.
The Early Years EAL students completed, and each presented amazing, eye-catching, and informative work which they should all be very proud of. Keep up the good work EYP EAL children!
Ms Tran Thi Ngoc Trinh
Early Years Teacher
In order to enhance children’s understanding of nature and educate them about environmental protection, practical experiences related to the “Sharing the Planet” project are provided. Each project includes real-life field trips, and the zoo, which conserves many rare plant and wildlife species, is an ideal place for students to experience.
Upon arriving at the zoo, the students began their day with breakfast and milk to prepare for the exciting and novel experiences awaiting them in the vast world of plants and animals. They started their tour, directly observing many animals such as monkeys, bears, gibbons, giraffes, wild boars, elephants, crocodiles, ostriches, and explored rare ornamental plants.
The students were incredibly excited to see the animals they had previously only heard about through pictures or on TV. They carefully observed each animal, called out their names, and were particularly thrilled by animals they were seeing for the first time. Some students even imitated the movements and sounds of the animals they had just seen.
Ms Nguyen Thi Thuy Trang
Early Years Teacher
In the final two months of this school year, the Foundation 1 students participated in the “Sharing the Planet” project. The students planted tomato plants, collected waste, recycled plastic bottles into plant pots, and attended lessons on environmental protection, helping them develop a love for nature from a very young age. They enthusiastically and passionately experienced activities such as harvesting carrots, planting spinach, and visiting rice fields during a field trip to a farm in Cu Chi.
These were invaluable lessons, not only from books but also from real-life experiences, helping the children grow and become valuable citizens for society.
Ms Pham Thi Thanh Phuc
Early Years Teacher
Today, we will participate in a very exciting activity: developing safe knife skills for children. In the colorful and fascinating world of children, learning how to use a knife safely is an extremely important skill.
We will not only learn how to hold and use a knife correctly, but also how to distinguish between knives and other tools. Through this activity, the children will experience and learn how to safely and effectively perform tasks such as cutting vegetables, fruits, or bread.
We will create a safe and enjoyable environment so the children can feel confident and comfortable participating in this activity. With the help and guidance of the teacher, the children will have the opportunity to develop their skills and awareness of knife safety.
Ms Tran Thi Hong Tham
Early Years Teacher
In this final project, the students explored together what sustains life. By learning about the essential needs for life, they learned how to care for plants, grow them, and take care of animals.
As a result of this exploration, they created a small mushroom garden. Harvesting and observing the mushrooms’ daily growth helped the students discover new knowledge and sparked further explorations.
The project culminated in a proud exhibition of their discoveries, presented to parents and teachers.
Ms Dam Le Thuy Tien
Early Years Teacher
The KG students had the opportunity to experience and explore a project with extremely interesting activities.
They learned to distinguish between living and non-living objects, directly observed the development of some living organisms, and understood their benefits and how to protect them. In particular, through the project “Understanding what makes life helps us care for and protect living organisms,” the students participated in the ECO EXCHANGE FAIR. This activity helped them understand that instead of discarding old but still usable items, parents could help their children select some usable items to bring to the fair and exchange them for other desired items contributed by participants.
Throughout the project, the students had experiences that helped them learn about the parts, functions, and benefits of mushrooms. They understood how mushrooms grow and how to care for them. They even had the chance to harvest mushrooms right at school after creating a small mushroom garden to observe and tend to each day.
Exploring and learning through real objects, which are always present in their daily learning environment, helps the students discover, learn, and remember knowledge naturally.
PRIMARY YEARS (PYP)
Ms Nguyen Thi Minh Ha
IB PYP Coordinator
Dear Parents,
I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to each of you for your continuous support and engagement with our PYP program. Your involvement is crucial in fostering a nurturing environment where our students can thrive.
Another essential concept we have been emphasizing is well-being. We believe that the well-being of our students is foundational to their overall development and success. Our efforts have been focused on creating a balanced environment where physical, emotional, and social health are prioritized alongside academic achievement.
We have introduced various initiatives and activities designed to support and enhance the well-being of our students. These include mindfulness sessions, physical education programs, and opportunities for social interaction and emotional expression. Our goal is to equip our students with the tools and strategies they need to manage stress, build resilience, and maintain a positive outlook on life.
Thank you for your ongoing support and for being active partners in promoting both agency and well-being within our PYP community. Together, we can ensure that our students are not only successful learners but also happy, healthy, and well-rounded individuals.
Warm regards,
Ms Tang Tuong Phuong Hoang
IB Teacher – KG Homeroom Teacher
The theme “Sharing the Planet” is a wonderful opportunity for KG students to explore the natural world around us, especially animals and their habitats.
The experiential activity of visiting the zoo helps students observe and evaluate animals in the most direct way. The students correctly named the animals in the zoo, pointed, looked, commented, and excitedly asked questions about the animals. They were also guided by teachers on a tour of the museum displaying various plant and animal species, where they learned about the life cycle of butterflies through pictures, specimens, and live images from nature.
Additionally, the students completed assignments on classifying animals, counting the number of each animal species, and identifying their habitats. Through this activity, the message of environmental protection and the importance of caring for our planet was conveyed to the students.
Ms Bui Thi Hong Minh
IB Teacher – Grade 1 Homeroom Teacher
With the theme “Sharing the Planet,” the students participated in many interesting and beneficial activities, which not only raised their awareness about environmental protection but also helped them learn practical knowledge and necessary skills. Before participating in “Earth Day,” the students had the opportunity to attend a lesson to better understand the history of Earth Day, the importance of environmental protection, and practical actions each person can take to contribute to protecting the planet.
Grade 1 students used recycled plastic bottles, sand, gravel, activated charcoal, and filter cloth to create a simple yet effective water filtration device. This activity helped them understand the water filtration process and the importance of using resources wisely.
Ms Nguyen Thi Diem Trinh
IB Teacher – Grade 2 Homeroom Teacher
May is a special month for students. They express their love and gratitude to their mothers. Grade 2 students show their creativity by arranging flowers and decorating vases made from Yakult bottles as gifts for their mothers. During this time, the students are exploring the final theme of the school year, “How we express ourselves?”. They learn how to express their feelings and emotions, bringing comfort to themselves and those around them. They understand that everyone has their own way of expressing themselves and learn to respect that, as well as how to express themselves in their own way.
Cô Nguyễn Hoàng An Khanh
IB Teacher – EAL
In our final unit, “How We Express Ourselves” students created a lap book about feelings. This activity allowed them to express themselves through writing and reflect on their emotions. They explored what makes them feel certain ways, identified things they are grateful for, and thought about how they usually handle different emotions. After making their colorful and creative lap books, they shared them with their friends! Together, they talked about whether their ways of handling feelings were positive or could use a little improvement. This activity was a fantastic way to practice English, learn about emotions, and share with friends!
Ms Nguyen Thi Thanh Sang
IB Teacher – Grade 3 Homeroom Teacher
The fourth theme of the school year is “Where We Are in Place and Time”. Students explore interesting knowledge about migratory animals such as salmon, red crabs, Monarch butterflies, and more.
Additionally, they study the factors leading to human migration and the environmental changes that occur after the migration process. The fifth theme the class studies is “Sharing the Planet.” The students spent a lot of time writing stories with environmental protection messages and performing them during the school assembly, which coincided with the school’s Earth Day. To deepen their understanding of this theme, the students took a field trip to the Vietnam Waste Solutions center to see the processes and technologies used in waste management, thereby raising their awareness about waste reduction and environmental protection.
The final theme the students are researching is “How the World Works.” They study the rainy season in Ho Chi Minh City, the issue of flooding due to tides (influenced by the moon’s effect on the Earth), and how to protect themselves and remind others to stay safe during the rainy season. This knowledge is very useful as the rainy season approaches.
Ms Nguyen Truong Nhu Quynh
IB Teacher – Grade 4 Homeroom Teacher
In the theme “How We Organize Ourselves,” we learned and practiced some important rules both in the classroom and in daily life. Through the lesson on the “Hùng Vương Festival,” the students expressed national pride, learned the spirit of unity in completing tasks, and understood how to preserve Vietnam’s cultural traditions. We also discussed different situations to better understand what is right and wrong based on these rules. By adhering to the rules, I believe that they will work more effectively and achieve greater success in life and studies.
Ms Doan Thi Huynh Hanh
IB Teacher – Grade 5 Homeroom Teacher
The inquiry-based learning process for the “Sharing the Planet” theme is clearly demonstrated, starting from searching, analyzing, filtering, and selecting topics related to terrestrial and aquatic life, as well as proposing specific actions following two field trips to Le Van Tam Park and along the Nhieu Loc canal. Through these experiences, the students expressed their understanding in various forms, such as drawing environmental pictures, creating models of terrestrial and aquatic habitats, making models of stranded whales and hedgehogs harmed by human impact, and waste management models. Moreover, the students proactively contacted the Sai Gon Green organization for an interview to further expand their knowledge.
They also organized two consecutive extracurricular activities to promote environmental protection, attracting a large number of Grade 3 and 4 students to participate. The exhibition, held on May 30 and 31, was based on station learning techniques, seamlessly combining activities like presentations, Q&A sessions, learning through games, and engaging recycling activities at the “Sustainable Development” booth.
The students showcased positive learning skills and 21st-century open-minded thinking, agency and responsibility from the preparation to the logistics of the event. The end-of-year exhibition was an incredibly significant milestone and a standout highlight for the Grade 5 students. While the school year has come to an end, what the students have accomplished is a remarkable testament to the maturity gained through the PYP learning process at Tesla.
Ms Christina Lawrence
IB Teacher – EAL
As the Upper Primary EAL teacher, I helped students develop their reading, writing, listening and speaking skills. My teaching philosophy is to create a learning environment that is fun and engaging. I found that gamifying my lessons or finding creative ways to present information was the best method in increasing students’ interest. Students completed several activities and tasks over the course of each unit: summarizing, writing paragraphs, speaking presentations, vocab (word banks), developing their comprehension and critical thinking skills. All activities were modified to meet the unit’s lines of inquiry. Regular formative assessments were assigned and used to guage students’ understanding for the first half of the unit. I would give students an opportunity to practice their summative presentations, and provide feedback. Over the course of the school year, I’ve seen a vast improvement in my students’ work and I am proud of what they’ve accomplished.
Mr Brandon Williams
IB Teacher – UOI
As their teacher for the past three years, I can’t help but feel immense pride in the Grade 5 students after witnessing their remarkable journey through the PYP Exhibition.
From the early days of curiosity and wide-eyed wonder to this moment of accomplishment, I’ve seen this group evolve into confident, thoughtful learners. Their growth has been nothing short of inspiring.
During the Exhibition, they tackled real-world issues with passion and creativity. Their inquiries delved deep into topics like environmental conservation, life below water, and life on land. They collaborated, researched, and presented their findings confidently. Their commitment to making a positive impact on our planet was evident in every word spoken, every display set up, and actions taken.
They have developed empathy, shown resilience, and supported one another — it’s all a testament to their character and the nurturing environment we’ve fostered together.
As they move on to new adventures, I know they carry with them not just knowledge, but also a sense of purpose. They are the changemakers, the dreamers, and the future leaders. And I couldn’t be prouder to have been a part of their journey.
Ms Le Minh Anh
IB Teacher – Science
This semester, our enthusiastic group of grade 5 scientists began on a fascinating journey to discover the hidden world of soil biology and water quality. With the scientific method as their guide, they delved into a world teeming with microscopic organisms and their critical role in ecosystems.
The classroom was transformed into a research lab, full of activity. Students put on scientist hats and learned about the basic concepts of pH, the differences between acids and bases, and the role of microorganisms in soil health. They had hands-on experience with microscopes, looking into an underground world of bacteria that play an important role in breaking down organic materials and delivering nutrients to plants.
This scientific exploration was more than just learning knowledge; it was also about developing a desire to care for the environment. Our grade 5 scientists better understood the relationship between soil biology and water quality through hands-on study and exploration.
They are now better prepared to recognize the need to safeguard these valuable resources for a healthier planet.
Ms Nguyen Thi Quynh Dien
IB Teacher – Art
Grade 5 students worked on their Exhibition which showed their abilities and knowledge of what they have learned in five years following PYP.
One group chose a topic that focused on the relationship between humans and the environment, specifically underwater life. The lines of inquiry covered the impact of people on the environment, how the environment impacts humans, and why humans needed to adapt to protect the environment.
Another group concentrated on Life on Land. They covered the central idea “The relationship between humans and the environment” and the lines of inquiry were “The effect of human consumption on the natural world”, “The interdependence of humans and the environment” and “Solutions to create a sustainable planet”.
They produced their artwork related to the chosen topics, especially when they made 3D models which were a whale and a hedgehog, using paper mache’ techniques. They felt proud of what they produced.
The Exhibition is going ahead on 31st May, 2024.
Well done, Grade 5.
Mr Do Su
IB Teacher – PE
Not long ago, the Grade 1 students at Tesla were still hesitant and fearful when it was time for swimming lessons. Some laughed, while others cried.
After a year of hard work and diligent practice, they have now become little frogs, full of confidence, ready to make a strong leap and conquer the 25-meter swim distance with the breaststroke technique they have painstakingly practiced throughout their first-grade year.
Ms Le Quynh Ny
IB Teacher – Music
In the last term, students researched and practiced music through international standards such as: Present the final version of personal created music to others and describe connection to expressive intent. Demonstrate understanding of the structure in music selected for performance. Generate musical ideas (such as rhythms and melodies) within a given tonality and meter.
They showed off those skills while performing the song ” Stand By Me” around the world version.
And they use standard of iconic notation, recording technology with music lab to document personal rhythmic and melodic musical ideas.
MIDDLE YEARS (MYP)
Mr Milky Lloyd De Leon Santos
IB Teacher – Language Acquisition
As we approach the end of Term 4, MYP students have worked on their final assessment for this term.
To make the assessment both enjoyable and productive, and to comply with IB requirements and standards, teachers have formulated an interdisciplinary unit for our MYP students. This unit is a component of the International Baccalaureate (IB) Middle Years Program that integrates learning across different subject areas. These units are designed to help students make connections between subjects and apply their knowledge and skills in a comprehensive and cohesive way.
In this unit, Language Acquisition, Individuals & Societies, and Arts classes have collaborated to create a project that showcases the students’ overall potential.
Here are the following IDU designed tasks:
UNIT TOPIC: WATER CRISI
MYP 1 – Water Conservation Campaign
Our Grade 6 students have created Public Service Announcements (PSAs) focused on water conservation. They produced campaign videos and conducting in-depth research to highlight the importance of saving water.
MYP 2 – Water Distribution Campaign
Grade 7 students have tacked the issue of water distribution. They designed and constructed DIY water distribution models and compiled research to understand and demonstrate how water can be more efficiently distributed in various communities.
MYP 3 – Water Filtration Campaign
The Grade 8 students focused on water filtration. They built their own DIY water filtration models and conducted research to explore different methods of making water safe for consumption.
The primary aim of these projects is to spread awareness about the current global water crisis. By engaging in these hands-on activities, students are not only learning about the scientific and societal aspects of water conservation but are also developing their research, collaboration, and presentation skills.
Finally, MYP students conducted a ‘Culminating Activity’ where our students showcased their projects on the 29th of May, 2024, Wednesday, from 8:45 AM to 10:35 AM in the MYP Music Room.
To add an element of excitement, the students or teams with the highest scores in each grade were rewarded with movie tickets, complete with popcorn and drinks.
Ms Huynh Thuy Nguyen Mai
IB Teacher – Vietnamese Language & Literature
All MYP students presented their Earth Day infographic. This activity is a collaboration between Visual Arts, Language & Literature and Language Acquisition for this term’s interdisciplinary unit regarding the water crisis.
We boosted reviewing for MOET exams after the holiday for the rest of this week. Grade 6 practiced persuasive writing about social phenomena, reading comprehension (story), and Vietnamese grammar (loan words and quotation marks function).
Grade 7 continued to read freestyle poems, Vietnamese grammar (how to extend the sentence’s subject and verb), and write essays expressing their feelings about their beloved person.
Grade 8 struggled with historical stories due to the ancient vocabulary I was assigned to learn.
Additionally, they have learned about declarative, exclamative, interrogative, and imperative sentences and how to switch between them. Grade 8’s essay is writing a story about a journey, integrating feelings and description.
For summative assessment, their project integrates with the Water Crisis Interdisciplinary Unit, with each grade focusing on a specific theme within that broader topic. Students are creating propaganda posters and infographics related to their chosen water crisis issue. The propaganda aims to persuade viewers with a strong statement, raising awareness about the crisis. Infographics will present data and propose solutions, backed by solid evidence. Students are engaging in all of the activities within my subject and they all did very well!
Ms Nguyen Thi Hoa Dao
IB Teacher – Math
This semester is a journey of discovery for students, especially Stem Week. It is an exciting activity for students in the world of smart home technology. Through hands-on activities and experiments, they explored the operational principles of devices like light sensors, fingerprint recognition systems, fire alarms, and magnetic cards. Working in groups, they crafted presentations focusing on specific devices and their applications in households, covering topics such as fire safety and automated door opening. Additionally, students extended their learning beyond the classroom by creating a video interviewing experts about the concept of time, gaining insights into its significance across different fields and in daily life.
Ms Nguyen Ngoc Duyen
IB Teacher – Art
This school year has been a great journey for both students and teachers. We have made amazing drawings, paintings and 3D models, using various of material. We also have done research and presentation of our knowledge of famous artist from Viet Nam and the other parts of the World. We have learned how to respect and appreciate different cultures, as well as show our own aesthetic vision about everything that have happened and is happening around the World. We also had great experiences in our fascinating field trip about the one of the most famous artists of all time – Van Gogh and how the technology contribute to the people experience in art. We have been growing better every day, but we still have a lot to learn and there are always rooms for improment. Be open to greatest opportunities!
Mr Trinh Hai Duong
IB Teacher – Design
MYP students at Tesla School are embarking on various exciting projects. Grade 6 explores the impact of food on people and the planet, while Grade 7 delves into the motivation behind sports tifos. Grade 8 focuses on creating personalized living spaces. Additionally, students get to explore Freepik’s AI Image Generator.
Throughout the term, Grade 8 will build paper-carton shelters to withstand earthquakes and floods. Grade 6 analyzes food recipes, practices responsible consumption, and learns about Goal 12 from the UN. Grade 7 celebrates Women’s Month by studying women’s history.
Lastly, students reflect on their learning, with Grade 6 emphasizing the importance of toys for refugee children, Grade 7 exploring how stickers can support causes, and Grade 8 identifying flags from around the world. Grades 6 and 7 also work on UN-related presentations, while Grade 8 redraws flags to understand their symbolism.
Mr Nguyen Kieu Quoc Bao
IB Teacher – PE
Recently, MYP students have had incredibly rich and rewarding experiences. Besides improving their physical fitness, they have also gained new knowledge and skills from basketball. Their enthusiasm and determination were clearly demonstrated through intense, exciting matches, full of teamwork spirit and healthy competition.
Swimming has also brought much excitement. Students have learned and practiced crucial techniques such as self-rescue and rescuing others in danger. These skills require high concentration and strict adherence to safety principles. Through assessments, they have shown great effort and excellent practical skills, which is truly commendable.
These experiences not only enhance their physical well-being but also equip them with essential life skills, making them more confident in their daily lives. Congratulations on their outstanding achievements, and I hope they will continue to maintain this learning spirit and perseverance in the future!
