discovery week brochure

Discovery Week HIGH SCHOOL

March 2014

Table of ContentsTimeline 2

Contacts 2

The Aims of Discovery Week 3

Participation Contract 4 China, Beijing - History & Culture 5

Croatia, Split - Active 6

Finland, Ruka - Skiing & Snowboarding 7

Macedonia, Skopje - Habitat for Humanity 8

Portugal, Braga - Habitat for Humanity 9

Russia, Moscow - History & Art 10

Spain, Barcelona - Culture 11

Spain, Barcelona - Sailing 12

Turkey, Cappadocia - Active 13

Turkey, Istanbul - Culture 14

UK, London - Science 15

UK, London - Theatre & Art 16

ContactsPaul Sexton High School Principal [email protected] +7 495 231-4484Elena Plyuta Activities Coordinator [email protected] +7 495 231-1061

2

TimelineNovember 22, 2013 Trip options introduced at HS Assembly and posted at www.aas.ru/HS/Discovery-WeekNovember 25-29, 2013 Online registration open at www.aas.ru/HS/Discovery-WeekNovember 29, 2013 Signed contract along with copies of passport(s) and Russian visa received by Penguin Life OfficeDecember 10, 2013 Trip assignments announced at www.aas.ru/HS/Discovery-WeekJanuary 21, 2014 DW invoices sent homeFebruary 3, 2014 Trip payment due

The Anglo-American School of Moscow, High School Discovery Week 2014

3


High School Discovery Week provides many exciting opportunities for students to explore the world and build relationships with each other. Discovery Week has been an integral part of the AAS High School Program for many years and offers enhanced educational experiences for all students. As we continue to expand and improve the program, we are mindful to incorporate elements of community service learning and an understanding of the environmental impact each trip has into the learning component. Each week-long experience is designed so that students will:

1. Discover and appreciate the geography, history, culture, and customs of a new area.

2. Become closer and supportive of one another. By traveling together, students get to know one another well, make new friends, and learn skills in dealing effectively with others in a group situation.

3. Grow in self-awareness, self-confidence, and independence. By traveling in a group, away from home and without parents, students will get to know themselves better, gain confidence through new experi-ences, and make decisions that increase their sense of self-reliance and independence.

4. Appreciate each other and their teachers in new ways. Through the common experiences of traveling, eating, and living together for five to seven days, students and teachers will experience each other in new ways not possible in the classroom. These new experiences provide an opportunity for students and teachers to build a positive and constructive foundation for interaction for the rest of the school year.

Please take some time in the next few days to preview the tentative itineraries, estimated trip costs and your top four trips.

1. Access www.aas.ru.2. Choose the green “9-12 High School” tab, then choose the Discovery Week sub-category. The direct link is www.aas.ru/HS/Discovery-Week.3. View the DW booklet for trip itineraries and costs. The booklet will be posted on Nov 22.4. To select trips, follow the DW registration link. 5. Submit a signed contract and copy of passport(s) and Russian visa (if applicable) to the Penguin Life office (room 2002) no later than November 29.

Online registration will begin on Monday, November 25 at 08:00 and close on Friday, November 29 at 22:00. By submitting the online request, and completing and returning the signed contract with an attached copy of your passport and visa, you are agreeing to pay the cost of the trip assigned. Once initial requests are received, stu-dents will not be allowed to change or opt out of trips.

Student requests will be given consideration. However, the final allocation to trips will be done by the administration according to the following criteria:

1. Timely submission of online registration and supporting documents.2. Distribution of students with regard to gender ratio.3. Suitability of student to meet the demands of a trip.4. Previous attendance on a trip and appropriate distribution of students by grade level.

Grade 11 students will be assigned to the trips first. A maximum of 50% of the available spots on any trip may be filled by Grade 11 students. Grade 9 and 10 students will be assigned to trips following the allotment of grade 11 students. Final lists will be published at www.aas.ru/HS/Discovery-Week on December 10, 2013. An invoice will be provided by the Business Office in January. Payment will be expected by February 3, 2014.

If you have any questions, please contact me or Elena Plyuta.

Warm regards,

Paul Sexton

The Aims of Discovery Week

Participation Contract

Please attach a photocopy of your son/daughter’s passport(s) and Russian visa (if applicable) to this form and submit it to the Penguin Life office (room 2002) no later than November 29, 2013.

4


Please mark choices 1, 2, 3 and 4. Selection is binding – signing and submitting this form confirms you WILL make payment for one of the trips requested.

Student’s Name (print):

Parent/Guardian’s Signature:

Grade:

Date:

Dear Parents,

Your child will be participating in HS Discovery Week in March 2014.

Trip options have beeen introduced to students in an assembly on Friday, November 22. Students will request their top four trips electronically at www.aas.ru/HS/Discovery-Week starting on Monday, November 25, 2013. Parents are strongly advised to review and request trips with their student. The trip selection is binding – by signing the participation contract and submitting the online registration at www.aas.ru/HS/Discovery-Week, parents are agree-ing to pay the cost for any of the requested trips. Once initial requests are received, students will not be allowed to change or opt-out of trips.

The online registration will not be considered valid until a signed participation contract has been submitted to the Penguin Life office. If you have any questions, please contact Paul Sexton, High School Principal, at +7 495- 231-4484, [email protected] or Elena Plyuta, Activities Coordinator, at +7 495-231-1061, [email protected].

By signing, you confirm you have read this contract, discussed trip choices with your son/daughter, and agree to pay, in full, for the trips your child has selected.

Choice DestinationEstimatedCosts* $

China, Beijing - History & Culture 1400

Croatia, Split - Active 1400

Finland, Ruka - Skiing & Snowboarding 1500/1600

Macedonia, Skopje - Habitat for Humanity 1200

Portugal, Braga - Habitat for Humanity 1200

Russia, Moscow - History & Art none

Spain, Barcelona - Culture 1500

Spain, Barcelona - Sailing 1500

Turkey, Cappadocia - Active 1400

Turkey, Istanbul - Culture 1050

UK, London - Science 1200

UK, London - Theatre & Art 1250

*Attention: Parents are responsible for meeting any visa requirements for Discovery Week trips!Visa costs are not included in the estimated trip fees.

Take advantage of this opportunity to visit an amazing country with thousands of years of history! This trip will be especially interesting for those students who enjoy international relations, business, and his-tory as they may find their future studies and career will involve interaction with China. Students should be prepared for a busy week of exciting tours and some gastronomic adventures! Students need to be open to new experiences, ready to try anything, and, as is said in the East, “Be like the bamboo that bends in the breeze.”

ChinaBeijingHistory

& Culture

Day

1 Evening Departure from Moscow

Day

2

Arrive in Beijing and visit the Temple of HeavenThe Temple of Heaven is considered to be the most beautiful building in the city. It was conceived as the meeting point between heaven and earth and symbols of the two are integral to the temple’s layout. Its park is a popular area in which to sit, drink tea, and play and it is easy to see how Chinese people find peaceful seclusion at the grounds. The evening’s itinerary is a Kung Fu Show!

Day

3

Great Wall of China, Ming TombsBuilt 2,500 years ago, the Great Wall is one of China’s most historic and magnificent sights. It is an awe-inspiring attraction and one not to be missed! Next, we will visit one of the Ming Tombs, the final resting place and mausoleums of 13 of the 16 Ming Dynasty emperors. We can also walk the Sacred Way, flanked with detailed Ming Dynasty animal sculptures. Entertainment in the evening will be a Chinese acrobat show.

Day

4

Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City, Summer PalaceThis symbolic public square has witnessed many events that shaped the country’s often turbulent history. The Forbidden City was the symbolic heart of the capital and the empire for many years. It boasts a maze of 800 buildings and thousands of chambers, each constructed during the Mongol and Ming dynasties. The Summer Palace was built as a grand imperial palace and royal garden of the Qing Dynasty. The palaces are located in a vast public park, two-thirds of which is a lake and imperial gardens in a classic Chinese style, making it one of the most scenic spots in Beijing.

Day

5

Terracotta Army Museum, Wild Goose Pagoda, Xi’an City WallsThe day begins with a high-speed train to Xi’an, where we will visit a local factory that produces replicas of terracotta warriors. At the Terracotta Army Museum we will see more than 8,000 life sized terracotta soldiers and horses dating back over 2,000 years, that have been unearthed and restored. The Wild Goose Pagoda is a square building that is 64 meters high with a winding spiral staircase. Once ascended, it leads to a spectacular view. The City Walls are an amazing example of how the ancient Chinese defended their cities. These thick walls have repelled invaders since the 7th century and were reinforced in the 14th century. The only way into the city was through one of the four, intricately decorated, and impenetrable gatehouses. We will even enter the gates during a City Wall Ceremony.

Day

6

Shaanxi Animal Conservation Research Centre, Tangbo Art MuseumThe day begins with a visit to the Shaanxi Animal Conservation Research and Panda Breeding Centre, where students can learn about efforts being under-taken to try and protect endangered species, most notably the Panda. Following this will be a visit to the Tangbo Art Museum, where students will get a chance to not only appreciate Chinese art but also have a chance to try their hand at calligraphy.

Day

7 Silk AlleyThe day begins with our return high-speed train back to Beijing. Upon arrival in Beijing students will visit Silk Alley, one of the best shopping paradises in the city where they can haggle for souvenirs such as silk garments, handmade carpets, craft articles, clothing and books.

Day

8 Return to Moscow


Tentative Itinerary:

5

Trip Leaders: Barry Spence & Vivien HallDates: March 15-22, 2014Number of students: 28Estimated costs to parents: $1400* * Trip costs are subject to change depending on EURO-$ exchange rate, Ruble - $ exchange rate, and the actual costs of air travel.

6



Trip Leaders: Leanne Fleming and Nathan DeSouzaDates: March 15-21, 2014Number of students: 32Estimated costs to parents: $1400* * Trip costs are subject to change depending on EURO-$ exchange rate, Ruble - $ exchange rate, and the actual costs of air travel.

Day

1 Arrive in Split & Travel to VisAfter the arrival in Split, the group will take a ferry to Vis. Hotel check-in and dinner.

Day

2-5

Kayaking, Biking, Caving/Climbing and HikingThe students will be divided into four activity groups. Each group will complete a one-day kayaking trip, mountain biking excursion, caving/climbing tour, and a hiking tour of the island. During the afternoons, students will have student-led activities and visit a local school to gain insight into life on a small island in Croatia with the opportunity to play sports against the other students.

Day

6 Group ChallengeAn exciting day of group challenges and a presentation evening!

Day

7 Depart for MoscowTravel by ferry and air back to Moscow.

Experience a variety of activities on the stunningly unspoiled island of Vis, where physical challenges are combined with cultural experiences. See the Croatian island of Vis by foot, peddle and paddle power! Kayak into remote bays and hike to the cave that was the hideout of Tito. Cycle to fishing villages and wander around the Old Town.

CroatiaSplit

Active


7


Trip Leader: Charles SempleDates: March 14-21, 2014Number of students: 24Estimated costs to parents: $1500* (with own equipment, including helmet), $1600* (with equipment rental – ski or snowboard set with helmet)* Trip costs are subject to change depending on EURO-$ exchange rate, Ruble - $ exchange rate, and the actual costs of air travel.

Day

1 Arrival in HelsinkiArrive at Helsinki airport, have dinner and stay overnight in a hotel

Day

2 Flight to Kuusamo and transfer to Ruka Upon arrival at Kuusamo airport, students and chaperones will be transferred to Ruka ski resort. After equipment fittings, group testing, and a tour, enjoy an afternoon of skiing/snowboarding.

Day

3 Skiing/Snowboarding throughout the day and group activities in the evenings (ex. bowling, movies, shopping, nature walks and journaling).

Day


Day

5 Day trip to Pyha ski resort, 2 hours north of Ruka. Skiing/Snowboarding.

Day


Day


Day

8 Return to MoscowTravel by air back to Moscow.

Downhill skiing and snowboarding activities will be offered throughout the week on this trip. Ruka has 29 ski slopes in excellent condition with the longest slope of 1300 m. Students will be accompanied by instructors for all abilities and there is an emphasis on ‘beginner’ level skiers and snowboarders. The ski school in Ruka is the biggest and oldest professional ski school in Finland. This trip will be an out-standing combination of outdoor winter activity and cultural exploration. Due to the nature of the activities involved on this trip, students are expected to be adventurous and prepared for challenging physical activity throughout the week. Please note: specific evening activities are still being finalized.

FinlandRukaSkiing


8


Day

1

Travel to Macedonia and tour Skopje; travel to hotel in Veles After arrival, the group will meet with our contact from Habitat for Humanity and tour Skopje - the capital and largest city of the Republic of Macedonia. It is the country’s political, cultural, economic and tourist center.

Day

2-6

Build Houses with Habitat for Humanity at work site in VelesThe students will be divided into groups to work on a number of houses at various stages of building. Students will be supervised by both the accompany-ing chaperones and by licensed building contractors. For grade 11 students, this work can count towards CAS hours. Dinner is at different restaurants.

Day

7 Depart for MoscowTravel by air back to Moscow

Trip Leader: David AwtreyDates: March 16-21, 2014Number of students: 13Estimated costs to parents: $1200* * Trip costs are subject to change depending on EURO-$ exchange rate, Ruble - $ exchange rate, and the actual costs of air travel.

Habitat for Humanity International builds, rehabilitates and repairs simple, decent houses with the help of homeowner families, volunteers, and donations of money and materials. Students will actively participate in the construction of a house or houses. The emphasis is not on what you can do, but on your desire to work. Through your willingness to partner with people in need, you’ll learn about a host community’s cus-toms, culture and economic circumstances. You’ll form an once-in-a-lifetime bond with other members of your team as you travel, live, work, and eat together in this life-changing experience.

As a participant, you’ll experience giving of yourself in a new and diverse environment. All participants must be at least 16 years old by the first day of the trip. There are no exceptions to this requirement.

MacedoniaSkopje

Habitat for Humanity


9


Trip Leader: Cynthia HogwoodDates: March 16-21, 2014Number of students: 13Estimated costs to parents: $1200* * Trip costs are subject to change depending on EURO-$ exchange rate, Ruble - $ exchange rate, and the actual costs of air travel.

Habitat for Humanity International builds, rehabilitates and repairs simple, decent houses with the help of homeowner families, volunteers, and donations of money and materials. Students will actively participate in the construction of a house or houses. The emphasis is not on what you can do, but on your desire to work. Through your willingness to partner with people in need, you’ll learn about a host community’s cus-toms, culture and economic circumstances. You’ll form an once-in-a-lifetime bond with other members of your team as you travel, live, work, and eat together in this life-changing experience.

As a participant, you’ll experience giving of yourself in a new and diverse environment. All participants must be at least 16 years old by the first day of the trip. There are no exceptions to this requirement.

Day

1

Travel to Portugal and tour Porto After arrival, the group will meet with our contact from Habitat for Humanity and tour Porto. Porto is the second largest city in Portugal and one of the oldest European centers. It was registered as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1996. Its settlement dates back many centuries, when it was an outpost of the Roman Empire.

Day

2-5

Build Houses in BragaThe students will be divided into groups to work on a number of houses at various stages of building. Students will be supervised by both the accompany-ing chaperones and by licensed building contractors. For grade 11 students, this work can count towards CAS hours.

Day

6 Depart for MoscowTravel by air back to Moscow.

PortugalBraga

Habitat for Humanity


10


Day

1

Moscow region: Sergiev Posad A visit to the Holy Trinity-St. Sergius Lavra (the Greek word “lavra” means monastery), founded in the 1340s by Reverend Sergius of Radonezh, whose name was given to the town. For centuries, the monastery has been the biggest religious and cultural center of the Russian State. Icon painters Andrey Rublev and Daniel Chorny worked there; they decorated with frescoes the main church of the monastery - the Trinity Cathedral. Lunch will be a traditional Russian meal.

Day

2

Kremlin Armoury & Architecture Ensemble, State Tretyakov GalleryThe Kremlin Armoury is one of the oldest museums in Moscow. See the amazing collection that includes jewels, weaponry and art. Feel the sense of history! In the afternoon, we will walk over the river to the State Tretyakov Gallery. The Gallery’s collection consists entirely of Russian art and artists who have made a contribution to the history of Russian art or been closely connected with it.

Day

3

Bolshoi Theatre Tour, Tsereteli Art Gallery In the morning, we will experience a behind-the-scenes walking tour of the Bolshoi Theatre. See the new technology that was put into the historic building to make it completely up-to-date and learn how the decor was preserved. The tour will include all the theatre’s main areas and perhaps even a glimpse of a rehearsal. After lunch we will metro down to Tsereteli Art Gallery. Zurab Tsereteli is a controversial contemporary artist, best known for his monument to Peter the Great, whose works can be seen all over the world. The gallery displays Tsereteli’s works of art, including his paintings, sculptures, drawings, enamel panels and bronze miniatures.

Day

4

Metro tour, Space Museum, Ostankino TowerIn the morning, we will take a tour of some brown line Metro stations and then visit the Space Museum. We’ll see displays that trace the history of space exploration when it was still viewed unequivocally as mankind’s last great adventure at the Space Museum. In the afternoon, we will climb Moscow TV tower, the tallest free-standing structure in Europe, to get a bird’s eye view of the city.

Day

5

Winzavod Moscow Center for Contemporary ArtWinzavod is a former wine-bottling factory that was transformed into one of the city’s most active art scenes. The post-industrial complex is home to five of the capital’s most prestigious art galleries.

Trip Leaders: to be determinedDates: March 17-21, 2014Number of students: 24Estimated costs to parents: None * Trip costs are subject to change depending on EURO-$ exchange rate, Ruble - $ exchange rate, and the actual costs of air travel.

Holiday at home! Be a Moscow tourist in the day and get to sleep in the comfort of your own bed each evening. These cultural and historical tours offer the opportunity for Russians and ex-pats alike to dis-cover the magic of Moscow. Whether you’re a native Muscovite or just visiting, everyone will want to know about your experiences in one of the world’s most fascinating cities. Make sure that you can talk about more than Pokrovsky Hills or Rosinka at your university interview. Sign up now for a week of Moscow Magic!

RussiaMoscowHistory& Art


11


Trip Leader: Paul MooneyDates: March 16-21, 2014Number of students: 24Estimated costs to parents: $1500* * Trip costs are subject to change depending on EURO-$ exchange rate, Ruble - $ exchange rate, and the actual costs of air travel.

Enjoy a cultural tour of Barcelona with the best of Spanish food, entertainment, art and living. Savor tapas; enjoy a flamenco show, Salvador Dali’s works and the medieval village of Besalu. Have the chance to go biking, and hike and relax in the Pyrenees Mountains. All activities are guide accompanied.

Day

1

Arrive in Barcelona, Flamenco Evening After their arrival to Barcelona, our students will settle in and have lunch. In the evening, they will walk down Ramblas to enjoy dinner and a Flamenco show.

Day

2

Modernista Barcelona, Gaudi Tour, Cycling Tour or City Aquarium, Cooking class The morning will be spent learning about the wonderful architecture of Barcelona and particularly the works of Antoni Gaudi. The group will go for a bus tour to view Casa Batllo and La Basilica de la Sagrada Familia with a licensed English-speaking guide. After lunch, the students will either experience the city via guided bicycle tour or visit City Aquarium. In the evening, half of the group will attend a paella cooking class, learn about Catalan cooking and create their own dinner! The other half will have time for dinner and shopping.

Day

3

Figueres, the Dali Museum and Costa Brava AreaIn the morning the students will travel by bus to the city of Figueres to visit the Dali Museum with a licensed English-speaking guide. After the museum, students will visit the Costa Brava area to eat lunch and visit some of the small traditional villages along the coast. They will have, weather permitting, an opportunity to engage in sporting activities such as volleyball and ultimate Frisbee. In the evening, dinner will be organized at a local restaurant.

Day

4

Flamenco and Camp Nou OR Picasso MuseumIn the morning, students will walk to a dance studio where they will learn the Flamenco. After lunch, the group will either visit Camp Nou or go to the Picasso Museum. In the evening, half of the group will attend a paella cooking class, learn about Catalan cooking and create their own dinner! The other half will have time for dinner or shopping in the area of the hotel.

Day

5

Hike and tour of Medieval Villages in the La Garrotxa ParkStudents will travel to the historic medieval village of Besalu. After a brief break and snack, students will hike in the La Garrotxa Park with two English-speaking guides. After the hike, students will return to Besalu, where they will have the opportunity to eat lunch in some traditional Catalan restaurants, shop for local crafts and tour the historic village. The group will then return to Barcelona in time for some last-minute shopping and dinner on their last night.

Day

6 Return to Moscow

SpainBarcelonaCulture


12


Trip Leader: Bryn WillDates: March 17-22, 2014Number of students: 15Estimated costs to parents: $1500* * Trip costs are subject to change depending on EURO-$ exchange rate, Ruble - $ exchange rate, and the actual costs of air travel.

Day

1

Arrive in Barcelona After their arrival to Barcelona, the students will meet with the MT Sail and Power instructors and settle in on the yachts. Students will learn basic essential knowledge including a safety briefing, introduction to the boat (including how to use the marine head!), and will take part in provisioning for the trip.

Day

2-4

MT Sail and PowerStudents will learn basic sailing, handling the boat under power, course setting, anchoring, docking, beginning navigation, basic knots, cooking on board, etc. as they sail from Barcelona to other coastal destinations, staying at a new marina every night.

Day

5 MT Sail and Power Return to Barcelona.

Day

6 Depart for Moscow

Experience Discovery Week from a new perspective - by harnessing the power of the wind and learning how to sail! This select group of fifteen students will spend their time living on board a cruising yacht while exploring the Spanish coast. Knowing how to sail is a fabulous skill that will last a lifetime, and MT Sail and Power in Barcelona is a registered Royal Yacht Association facility with the ability to award RYA sailing certificates at the level of “Competent Crew” or “Day Skipper” depending on prior experience.

SpainBarcelonaSailing


13


Trip Leader: Joseph KhanDates: March 16-22, 2014Number of students: 24Estimated costs to parents: $1400* * Trip costs are subject to change depending on EURO-$ exchange rate, Ruble - $ exchange rate, and the actual costs of air travel.

Join us for an excellent week of outdoor and cultural adventure in central Turkey, a land of rock-hewn dwellings and churches. We will be hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding and visiting cultural land-marks! A Discovery Week full of activity and excitement!

Day

1 Arrive in GöremeArrive in Kayseri and transfer to the group hotel in Göreme.

Day

2

Biking, Zelve Open Air Museum, PasabagMorning: Cycle to the famous Open Air Museum of Zelve. Zelve was a small village cut out of the rocks. It was inhabited until the 1950s. We will learn about the lifestyle of the people who lived in the caves. Head torches will be provided for an exciting 10 minute walk through an ancient tunnel. After Zelve, we hike to the Pasabag area to see the two and three-headed fairy chimneys. After lunch (a picnic), we will hike the beautiful Zemi valley through orchards and gardens. Our hike will end in Goreme village. Total walking time is 4-5 hours.

Day

3

Mountain Biking, Avanos & Pottery Making, concert nightToday we will discover the best valley in Cappadocia on mountain bikes. This adventurous mountain bike tour over and through the beautiful hills, val-leys, dunes and trails of the extraordinary Cappadocia landscape. This tour will bring us to Uchisar Castle and Ortahisar Castle (20 km both ways). Along the ride, we will stop by the ridge to see the interesting rocks of Akvadi (White Valley). We return to Goreme. After lunch, we will continue to Avanos to discover a 4000-year-old pottery making tradition with an opportunity to try it. Dinner and concert night - Dance night, with traditional Turkish dancing.

Day

4

Cultural day: Hiking and underground city in DerinkuyuToday the bus will take us to go hiking from Ihlara village to Belisirma village (6km) in Ihlara Valley, a canyon with approximately 100m depth, more than 4000 dwellings and 100 cave churches decorated with frescoes. After lunch, we drive to Derinkuyu to visit an underground city. The underground city is a huge hidden city under the plains of Central Anatolia, with eight levels. “Swiss cheese” is the best way to imagine this city, with its caverns and con-necting tunnels everywhere. In the evening we return to the hotel for dinner and socializing.

Day

5

Cavusin, Horseback riding, Goreme Open Air Museum,Morning horseback riding through the beautiful hills, valley, and dunes of the Cappadocia landscape. This tour will bring us to Cavusin Village, Rose Val-ley, and Love Valley. In the afternoon, we will visit the Goreme Open Air Museum which is famous for its Byzantine monasteries and amazingly preserved frescoes dating back to the 10-12th centuries. It is a must see place in Cappadocia and also a UNESCO World Heritage site. Afterwards, we will attend a presentation about rocks in Cappadocia in the local jewelry factory. Return to Goreme for dinner.

Day

6

Urgup Museum, Sightseeing, Hammam (Turkish Bath) and Return to MoscowAfter checking out of the hotel, the group will go to the town of Urgup for sightseeing, local market (bazaar) and to visit Urgup Museum which includes archaeological and ethnographic works. After lunch we will visit a local Hammam for an invigorating Turkish bath. On the way to the airport, there will be a stop at the market in Kayseri for any last minute shopping. Transfer to the airport for an overnight flight to Moscow.

Day

7 Early Morning Arrival in Moscow

TurkeyCappadocia

Active


14


Day

1

Arrive in Istanbul, Taksim and Istiklal street, Galata TowerAfter arrival, students will view the heart of modern Istanbul from Taksim Square. The day will culminate with a 360-degree view of the entire city from the Galata Tower followed by dinner. After dinner we will see the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque lit up at night in the Sultanahmet area.

Day

2

Blue Mosque, Hippodrome, Topkapi Palace, Crafts activities, Grand BazaarFirst a visit to the Sultan Ahmet Mosque; which was built between 1609 and 1616 and often called the ‘Blue Mosque’ due to the blue tiles in its interior. After lunch, the students will go for craft activities where they will have a hands on class of traditional Turkish arts such as marbling and making bracelets. After an introduction to the Turkish arts the students will have an opportunity to visit the first shopping mall in the world and we will explore the area around this old part of the city. With more than 4000 shops, it is a spectacle to see! Dinner in the hotel area.

Day

3

The Haghia Sophia Museum, The Cisterns Museum, bus tour along the Golden Horn, Miniaturk open-air museum, Pierre Lotti café, Dance night.First a visit to the Haghia Sophia Museum and The Cisterns Museum. Then the students will have a guided tour to the magnificent Hagia Sophia museum. For many centuries it was the largest church in the world. It has been an Orthodox cathedral, Catholic cathedral and a mosque before becoming a museum. From there we will walk to the Underground Cistern, which provided water storage for the ancient city. After lunch we are going to have a bus tour along the Golden Horn to the Miniaturk open-air museum. Walk through the historical area of Eyup to the funicular which will take us to the Pierre Lotti café which has a stunning view of Istanbul. Dinner in the hotel area. Enjoy some free time after the dinner. In the evening, there will be the opportunity to view a traditional Dance Night.

Day

4

Bosphorus boat cruise, Baklava shop, Egyptian BazaarThe group will take a guided cruise up the Bosphorus on a ferry, near the Sea of Marmara and then go north along the Bosphorus towards the entrance to the Black Sea, where we will see a castle, the two suspension bridges linking Europe to Asia and many historical buildings on both sides of the strait. After lunch, coming back by the same boat to Eminonu. After the boat trip we will go to visit the local Baklava shop for afternoon tea and enjoy the Egyptian Bazaar. We will have the chance to see oils, herbs and other products at this Spice Market. We will conclude this busy day with dinner.

Day

5

Princes’ Islands, BikingThe day will begin with a ferry ride to the Princes’ Islands, a chain of nine islands with no traffic - only horse and cart. The islands are a popular day trip destination from Istanbul. Explore the area by bike and enjoy a picnic lunch, then some free time. The group will then head back to the hotel and dinner.

Day

6

Grand Bazaar, Depart for MoscowBefore departure the group will have a final opportunity to shop some more at the Grand Bazaar or to do some more sightseeing: the mosaic museum, the ancient library and the archaeology museum. Then travel by air back to Moscow.

Trip Leaders: Chris Jerace and Iryna JeraceDates: March 16-21, 2014Number of students: 24Estimated costs to parents: $1050* * Trip costs are subject to change depending on EURO-$ exchange rate, Ruble - $ exchange rate, and the actual costs of air travel.

Formerly called Constantinople, Istanbul was the capital of the Roman Empire and Europe’s wealthiest metropolis, and is now the largest city in Turkey. This cultural tour of Istanbul provides the perfect intro-duction to the fabled city that spans Asia and Europe. You will get to experience mosques, bazaars, a boat trip on the Bosphorus, a biking and fishing excursion, and fantastic food.

TurkeyIstanbul

Culture


15


Trip Leader: Adam FuscoDates: March 17-22, 2014Number of students: 16Estimated costs to parents: $1200* * Trip costs are subject to change depending on EURO-$ exchange rate, Ruble - $ exchange rate, and the actual costs of air travel.

An exciting destination to ignite your curiosity! This trip will offer students the opportunity to explore a range of science themes at a number of intriguing visits and hands-on workshops. At the same time, students will be given the opportunity to absorb some of the famous attractions!

Day

1

Arrive in London, Science Museum, Isis Education CentreWe will start our tour by visiting the Science Museum, close to our hotel in central London. We will explore the galleries, such as Launch Pad, where students can explore science and technology first-hand with 50 hands-on exhibits and shows.

Day

2

Isis Centre in Hyde Park, Evening Performance We will visit the Isis Education Centre, an environmental education facility at the heart of Hyde Park.We will finish this day with a West End theatre performance!

Day

3

Royal Institute of LondonWe will travel by underground to Royal Institute of London to visit the L’Oreal Young Scientist Centre. This modern laboratory offers advanced technology and a fascinating range of full and half day workshops (ex. Extracting your own DNA, Cosmetic Chemistry).

Day

4

Natural History Museum and Harry Potter Studio TourIn the morning, we will have a guided tour of the Natural History Museum. In the afternoon, to take a break from science, we will leave London to visit the Harry Potter Warner Bros. Studio, 20 miles outside London to discover the behind-the-scenes magic, original sets, props and costumes that brought these stunning films to life.

Day

5

Royal Observatory, Maritime Museum and Boat Trip on the ThamesWe will start in Greenwich, where we will visit the Royal Observatory and Maritime Museum with guided tour. We will then take a boat trip on the Thames.In the afternoon, we will collect luggage and depart for the airport to catch a late evening flight back to Moscow.

Day


UnitedKingdomScience


16


Trip Leaders: Colleen Nelson and Danka KulikowskiDates: March 17-22, 2014Number of students: 24Estimated costs to parents: $1250* * Trip costs are subject to change depending on EURO-$ exchange rate, Ruble - $ exchange rate, and the actual costs of air travel.

Day

1

Arrive in LondonAfter arrival at London Heathrow airport our group will be transferred to the hotel. After settling in, students will have time to explore Queensway Area and have dinner.

Day

2

Tate Modern Gallery, Globe Theatre, Theatre Royal Drury Lane, Covent Garden, PerformanceVisual Art students will head to the Tate Modern Gallery and the Whitechapel Gallery for the day. It is the most-visited modern art gallery in the world, with around 4.7 million visitors per year. Drama students will start the day with a visit to the Globe Theatre for a tour and workshop. After lunch, the theatre students will take a backstage tour of the Theatre Royal Drury Lane with an opportunity to meet a set designer for a question and answer session. The groups will combine for dinner and then see a performance of Matilda, the Musical.

Day

3

Harry Potter Studios Tour, PerformanceThe entire group will spend the day visiting the Harry Potter Studios Tour to discover the behind-the-scenes magic, original sets, props and costumes that brought these stunning films to life. The students will see a matinee of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory in Drury Lane. After some free time and dinner, the group will see a second performance of the play Once at the Phoenix Theatre.

Day

4 Pineapple Studios, Scenic Artist for talk and Q&A. The drama and art students will all take part in a puppetry workshop in preparation for that night’s performance of War Horse at the New London Theatre.

Day

5 After packing and loading the bus, the students will have a workshop with Moon on a Stick - Puppetry. At approximately, 12:30, we will leave for some Shopping, Depart for Moscow - overnight to arrive in Moscow in the early morning on Saturday.

Day


Enjoy a visit to the city that will encompass an overview of art, movie magic and theatre! Students will see four different performances in the West End and beyond. Exact performances will be determined closer to the trip date.

UnitedKingdomTheatre

& Art


10

mission AAS empowers each student to:

Respect Self & Others,Love Learning, andContribute as a Globally Aware Citizenin order to achieve individual academic and holistic excellence.

vision We inspire student learning:

• Through a dynamic and caring environment• With innovative and effective instructional strategies• In collaborative relationships, and• By using current, relevant technologies, and the rich resources of our diverse community.

core valuesAAS believes equally in the value of:

• Making decisions based on the students’ best interests.• Developing the whole child.• Supporting student success through community partnerships.• Delivering a challenging and inquiry-based curriculum in an engaging manner.• Reviewing curriculum via a reflective and dynamic process.• Respecting self and others.• Providing an emotionally and physically safe environment where people want to come each day.• Providing students with an international perspective in order to prepare them for future challenges and contributions.

www.aas.ruou

r m

issi

on

, vi

sio

n,

and

co

re v

alu

es

discovery week brochure

Documents

high school discovery

high school tab

school year

aims of discovery week

aas high school program

new experiences

discovery week subcategory

trip itineraries