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Port Moresby International School Grades 11-12 Senior Handbook 2012
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PORT MORESBY
INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL
SENIOR STUDENT
HANDBOOK
2012
Port Moresby International School Grades 11-12 Senior Handbook 2012
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Port Moresby International School – Mission, Aims & Values 3
IEA Aims and Values 3
Staff at POMIS 4
Fee Collection Policy 5
Rules and Procedures 6
Using the Library 14
Profile of a POMIS Student 16
Assessment Policy and Procedures 18
Achievement Grade Descriptors 21
Curriculum Information Summary 22
Port Moresby International School Grades 11-12 Senior Handbook 2012
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MISSION:
To prepare students for success in the modern world by being the leading provider of
secondary education in Papua New Guinea.
MOTTO:
Excellence, commitment, diversity & integrity
Objectives To provide a structured curriculum that recognises the individual needs of the students with a wide ability range.
To encourage students to strive for excellence in order to achieve their full potential.
To prepare students for entry to educational institutions and careers internationally, and to use their leisure time
constructively.
To ensure an effective teaching and learning climate and to encourage positive student-teacher relationships.
To foster amongst students, staff and parents an atmosphere of mutual respect, cooperation, support and concern.
To provide opportunities for cultural, sporting and social contacts with the Papua New Guinean and international
communities.
To encourage and support professional development of staff.
To encourage parent, staff and community participation in the school.
To provide appropriate resources and facilities and to ensure their effective allocation and use.
Port Moresby International School values: Equal opportunities for individuals to realise their full intellectual, social, physical and creative potential
Its high academic standard within an internationally accepted educational framework -a diverse curriculum and a range of
enjoyable activities that provide students with a variety of ways of understanding the world
The unique position and role the school occupies in the country and in the lives of its students
Student centred learning which reflects an understanding of the stages of development of individuals
An environment in which individuals can grow into positive community members who exercise responsibility for their
own actions and have a caring attitude towards others
The diversity of nationalities, cultures and religions within the School
Careful and responsible management of natural and human environments to ensure their safety and stability for present
and future generations
Contributions from all members of the school community
The importance of ongoing professional development for all staff
The students of the School will be assisted to: Recognise and respect the values for which the school stands and carry these into the wider community
Regard intellectual, artistic, imaginative and physical skills as worthwhile
Have an individual voice, as well as respect the opinions of others
Respect the religious and cultural beliefs of others
Develop self-esteem and self-discipline
Be tolerant and sensitive to others
Share their culture with others
Be honest and responsible members of the community
Care for natural and human environments
Prepare for further education, employment and leisure activities
Accept national and international responsibilities
Discover that learning is deeply satisfying, and approach it enthusiastically
IEA Key Outcomes (The Key Outcomes are the ultimate attainments of education in all IEA schools)
IEA schools assist each child to …..
Be self directing - One who is self-confident, has high self esteem and personal integrity and a positive vision for
self and the future
Communicate effectively - One who confidently conveys and receives information, instruction, ideas and feeling
appropriately and effectively in a range of different cultural, language and social contexts.
Behave ethically - One who exhibits appropriate morals, manners and virtues in a range of social and cultural
settings.
Work collaboratively - One who develops good relationships with others and works in cooperative ways to
achieve common goals.
Analyse and solve problems - who accesses a range of information sources appropriate to the resolution of
complex issues and applies strategies with accuracy and thoroughness.
Port Moresby International School Grades 11-12 Senior Handbook 2012
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2012 STAFF AT PORT MORESBY INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL
Mr Christopher West PRINCIPAL
Mrs. Keuts Vui-Neuendorf DEPUTY PRINCIPAL (Operations; Student Welfare)
Mr Steven Rowley DEPUTY PRINCIPAL (Academic)
HEADS OF DEPARTMENTS
Mr. Andrew Briggs PE/OUTDOOR EDUCATION/ARTS/MUSIC
Mrs Anna Dusava HUMANITIES
Dr. Christopher Hart SCIENCE
Ms. Ann Iberson-Hurst MATHEMATICS
Ms. Diana McManus LANGUAGE
Ms. Maria Nodalo TECHNOLOGY
TEACHING STAFF Ms. Benita Akila Information Technology
Mr. George Badapipi Mathematics
Mrs. Sovori Bade Mathematics
Mrs. Maristella Baras Social Sciences, Business Studies
Mr. Umba Ben Physical Education, PSE
Ms. Nicole Boin French
Ms. Rebecca Daniel Geography History
Mrs. Connie Davies English
Ms. Avaireso Enoch Physical Education, PSE
Mr. Dean Foy Science
Mr. John Ga‟a Music
Mr. Bagu Gavera Humanities
Ms. Abigail Gima English
Mr. Gibson Giti Information Technology
Mrs. Jane Graham History
Mr. Fredrick Guande Humanities
Mrs. Lina Gui Mathematics, Information Technology
Mr. Ricky Gure English
Dr. Anuradha Guru Science
Mr. Andrew Hriehwazi Information Technology
Mr. Patrick Hughes English
Mr. Stiofan Hunter Science
Mrs. Ansila Irima Accounting/Economics
Mr. Joshua Kali Mathematics
Mr. Thomas Kavanamur Science
Mr. Charlie Kiah Design and Technology
Mr. Kerry Kimiafa Science
Mrs. Olive Koim Humanities
Mrs. Faas‟o Kuama Science
Mr. Mika Laku Mathematics
Mrs. Joan Lalie Home Economics/Mathematics
Ms. Genevieve Lavai Science
Dr. Catherine Levy French
Mr. Robert Mabone English
Mr. Greg Malie Humanities
Mr. William Marabu Physics
Mr. Simon McMao Design and Technology
Mr. Ishmael Nombe Mathematics
Mrs. Julie Nombe PE/PSE
Mrs. Kaia Obi-Araga Mathematics
Ms. Konio Pala ESL/Social Science/Humanities
Mrs. Elizabeth Pascoe Science
Ms. Elizabeth Rasehei Mathematics
Mr. Haroun Rashid Business Studies
Mr. David Rocchi Music
Mrs. Alice Sareke English
Mr. William Teka English
Mrs. Joyce Tokauba English
Ms. Valerie Tulasoi Humanities
Port Moresby International School Grades 11-12 Senior Handbook 2012
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Ms. Janice Umpa Information Technology
Mr. Jim Vaname Visual Arts
Mr. Ken Vovoki Visual Arts
Mr. Simon Wapiyu Mathematics
Mrs. Bella Wartovo Science
Ms. Roselyn Wuniki English
Mrs. Elizabeth Yaneku Mathematics School Fee Policy
School fees are determined and approved for the following academic year by the Board of Governors at the
beginning of Term 4. Tuition fees are charged annually in January at the pre-determined rate approved by the
Board of Governors. The comprehensive tuition fee charged includes items that are required for teaching
requirements. Excluded items are uniforms, stationery, and excursions.
Tuition Fee & Collection Procedures
School Fee invoices will be issued upon Registration or prior if requested. Invoices will show either
annual/term fees.
Annual or 1st Term fees are due at Registration. Students will not be accepted to enrol if fees cannot be paid.
Students with outstanding fees from a prior year will not be enrolled at Registration.
Approval for proposed fee payment in instalment will commence after term one based on a written request.
Arrangements for payment of fees in instalment are treated confidentially.
A full term‟s tuition fee is payable for any part of a term attended.
Withdrawing students automatically forfeit a penalty of 5 weeks in lieu of a term‟s fee.
Term fees for all grades will be billed in the first 3 terms of the 2012 school year.
Students who are removed from the school and have paid an annual fee will be charged the pro rata term
fees.
Students will be removed from the school roll records after 15 school days of being withdrawn from the
school for non-payment of fees. If students then re-enrol the enrolment fee of K100 will apply.
Students will be eligible for a refund of the difference in fees charged between courses if the school is
formally notified in writing of the desire to change courses before the end of week 4 in Term 1 or during
week one of term 3 (Refund the difference for semester 2 only).
Students who move to a higher fee paying course must pay the full two-year fee difference if it is in the
second year of the course i.e. grade 10 and 12.
Students who pay an annual fee and change courses will not be eligible for a refund.
Students who pay an annual fee and suddenly decide to leave the school in term 4 will forfeit all fees paid.
Term fees are due and payable in full before the first day of each term. Students will be excluded from
classes until fees are paid.
Fee Concessions
The school offers a 10% discount for the third child to families with three or more children in the school.
Enrolment, Textbook and Other Fees
A non-refundable fee of K100 is charged on the initial enrolment of students not previously enrolled in IEA
Schools. After February this is increased to K200.
An annual text book fee of K220 is applicable and magazine purchase of K45 is added to the term one fee
invoice and is in addition to the above fee amounts and is non refundable. The annual costs of text books per
students would be in the vicinity of K1500 if this fee was not charged. The aim is to provide students with
textbooks at a more affordable level.
Transport
Transport fees are payable before students are allowed to get on the bus
Citizen fees are offered to all students holding a PNG passport.
Port Moresby International School Grades 11-12 Senior Handbook 2012
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WHAT DO I DO IF ???
I forget where I have to go?
Firstly see if any of your classmates know where to go, if they don‟t ask a teacher or an older student. If you get
really stuck go to the reception counter and ask there.
I arrive late for school?
Report to the Late Desk; if the late desk is closed, take your note explaining why you are late to the reception
counter and Lynn will mark you present and give you a note that will allow you to enter class. If you do not have
a note, your parent/guardian will have to sign.
I wish to leave school early to attend an appointment?
Bring a note from your parent/guardian explaining your absence and detailing the time and transport arrangements
for your departure. Show this to the Principal, Deputy Principal or Receptionist before school and they will sign it
for you. Show this note to your roll call teacher, but keep it in your possession. In the class that you need to leave
from, speak to your teacher prior to leaving and show him/her your note. When you wish to leave go to reception
to be signed out and submit your letter.
I am unable to wear my correct school uniform?
Bring a note from your parent/guardian explaining why you are out of uniform, show this to the Principal, Deputy
Principal, or receptionist who will issue you with a uniform pass for the day if appropriate. You need to produce
this pass if other teachers ask for it.
I feel sick at school?
Explain to your teacher that you are sick and he/she will write you a note for you to see a Hane at the front office
who will make an assessment and treat you. If necessary your parent/ guardian will be contacted for them to
collect you from school.
I am having problems with my work or friends at school?
Speak to someone with whom you feel comfortable, whom you know is in a position to help you. This might be
an older student, your Grade Coordinator, your teacher, a principal or a Head of Department. Problems are easily
solved when shared with the right person!!
I am absent from school?
Bring a note explaining your absence the next day of your attendance and hand it to your roll call teacher. Speak
to your teachers to find out what work you have missed while you have been away from school.
RULES and PROCEDURES
ABSENTEEISM
If a student is absent from school for either all or part of a school day, parents should supply a letter to the school
stating the reason for absence. This letter should be clearly marked with the student‟s name, grade, roll call group,
the date(s) of absence and the reason for the absence. All letters must be signed by a parent/guardian and
presented to the roll call teacher on the first day after an absence. If it is necessary for students to be absent for a
prearranged appointment, the school should be notified in advance. If an absence is prolonged then a phone call to
the Grade Co-ordinator is requested, as soon as possible. Written confirmation is required, and if prior knowledge
of the absence is known, then a note prior to the student‟s departure is requested. It is each student‟s responsibility
to ensure that class work or homework missed through absenteeism is still attempted. PNG students absent more
than 30 days are unable to sit their exam and other courses require 90% attendance.
ACTIVITIES
Extra-curricula activities are held after school. All students should be involved in at least one of these. A list of
activities available will be published as soon as possible. Any suggestions for new activities are welcomed and
should be discussed with Grade Co-ordinators who will discuss it further with interested staff and the Activities
Co-ordinator.
ARRIVING AT SCHOOL
You may only arrive and leave through either the main gate by the office or the one at the bottom of the oval by
the old IEA building. You must not use the staff car park the Boroko East School or the entrance to the teachers‟
housing compound.
Port Moresby International School Grades 11-12 Senior Handbook 2012
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ASSEMBLY
At weekly Monday assemblies from 7.50 to 8.15 students are encouraged to give reports on activities. Items for
Assembly must be given to the School Captains prior to assembly. Roll call is still held as usual on Assembly
days.
BAGS
Please ensure that all equipment is clearly marked with your name. Lost property is stored in the front office.
Unfortunately we still have occasional stealing so make sure you take care of your bags and do not leave them
lying around the school.
BANNED ITEMS
Drugs, alcohol, cigarettes, betelnut, chewing gum, walkmans, whiteout and spirit-based felt pens are banned.
Mobile phones, IPODs, laptop computers and MP 3 players are discouraged within school grounds. If parents
wish for their child to have a mobile phone to make contact in case of emergencies and after school then they
should be kept in their bags and switched off. “OFF AND INVISIBLE” is the expectation. The school does not
take any responsibility for items of this nature which are lost or stolen.
BELL TIMES Normal Day Assembly Day
Warning Bell (all students should be at school) 07.45 07:45
Assembly 07:50 – 08:10
Period 1 07.50 – 08:45 08:10 – 09:05
Period 2 08.45 – 09:40 09:05 – 10:00
Home Room (9, 10, 11, 12) 09:40 – 09:55 10:00 – 10:15
Recess (9, 10, 11, 12) 09.55 – 10:20 10:15 – 10:40
Recess (7, 8) 09:40 – 10:05 10:00 – 10:25
Home Room (7, 8) 10:05 – 10:20 10:25 – 10:40
Period 3 10:20 – 11:15 10:40 - 11:35
Period 4 11:15 – 12:10 11:35 - 12:30
Lunch 12:10 – 12:55 12:30 - 01:15
Period 5 12:55 – 01:50 01:15 - 02:10
Period 6 01:50 – 02:45 02:10 – 03:05
Period 7 02:45 – 03:40
BULLETIN: STUDENT
The Student Bulletin is posted on the noticeboard and read during Roll Call. Notices should be written in the
Student Bulletin kept at the office by 3:00 p.m. on the previous day
CANTEEN
The canteen operates at recess, lunchtime and after school until 3:30 p.m. It is self-service and operates on a cash
basis. The canteen is out of bounds to all students during class times. Special times apply during examinations.
Students are invited to make recommendations for the canteen through their Forum and SRC representatives
CARS/MOTOR BIKES BELONGING TO STUDENTS
Parking on school grounds is not available to students with vehicles.
CHANGING SUBJECTS
Students in grade 11 may change subjects in Term 1. In the first two weeks they should see the Deputy Academic.
After the first two weeks they must use a subject change form which can be collected from the office. They still
need to see the Deputy Academic to discuss the change so that they can be advised on whether the desired change
is possible and which teachers to see. They will have to have the subject change form signed by the teacher of the
old subject, the HOD of the old subject, the teacher of the new subject and the HOD of the new subject. They also
need to have the form signed by their parents or have a letter from their parents. Once they have the form
completed it is submitted to the Deputy Academic for final processing and a new timetable will be issued.
CIVIES DAYS
Civvies Days are usually held on the day of school dances. On these days students are not required to wear
uniform. Students are expected to dress sensibly and no thongs may be worn. Students unsuitably dressed will be
sent home. On these days students are required to bring a kina for the „privilege‟ of not wearing uniform. Money
is collected during roll call and is shared with a local charity.
Port Moresby International School Grades 11-12 Senior Handbook 2012
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CLUSTER DAYS
Cluster days are days when sporting teams go to play other schools in the National Capital District. Interested
students will be expected to attend practices in the relevant sports prior to the cluster day. The cluster days are
usually held once a term.
CONFISCATION OF ITEMS
Teachers may confiscate items they believe students should not have in class or around the school. These items
are given to the Deputy Principal. All items will be returned in due course except those which are illegal or
offensive.
COUNSELING
Port Moresby International School is a very caring school with a supportive pastoral care system. Home Room
teachers and Grade Coordinators liaise with the teaching staff to assist students who have social, personal or
academic problems. The Principal and/or Deputy Principals can also be involved in this activity.
DANCES
Dances are usually held 6 times during the year and are run by a particular grade/group under the control of the
SRC. All students are encouraged to attend. Extra security is employed and parents are asked to come along to
assist with supervision. Students who do not follow rules at dances may be banned from future dances and face
other sanctions. Students must be collected up to one half hour after the dance ends. Remaining students will be
sent home on a school bus at cost to the student of K20 and these students will not be permitted to attend future
dances/events.
DETENTIONS Any teacher may give detentions for half of lunchtime. Heads of Departments or the Principal/Deputy Principal
may give after school detentions. Any teacher who wishes to give a student an after school detention will send
the student to his/her Head of Department stating the reason. The student is given a letter, which must be returned
to the person issuing the detention the next day. It should be signed by his/her parents/guardians. For a breach of
discipline a Head of Department or the Principal can issue a Discipline Letter. Copies of the letter are posted
home, given to the Grade Coordinator and placed on the student's file. Detention on a daily basis is given for
students who breech the school rules on uniform, ID‟s and being late to school/class
DISCIPLINE POLICY AND PROCEDURES
Port Moresby International School is a caring multi national school, which expects high standards of academic
results and demands high standards of behaviour. Our school rules are written in positive terms and each rule
explains the students‟ rights, their responsibilities within that rule and the consequences for not following the rule.
The School Board has approved the rules and consequences and expects students to follow them.
Offences which can lead to termination of enrolment
Being drunk, selling, or being in possession of alcohol at school or at a school activity
The using, supplying or possession of illegal drugs
Possession of weapons and/or selling pornographic material
Stealing
Fighting and Bullying
Wilful destruction of school property including graffiti
Continued absences
Poor academic results (see Academic Standards Review Committee)
Repeatedly breaking school rules.
Students are reminded that consequences listed in this policy can apply to a first offence. More details are
available in the separate Student Behaviour Booklet available from the Office.
Expulsions
Enrolment may be terminated for failing to work to an acceptable standard over an extended period of time or for
matters of discipline. Parents will be notified of the Enrolment and Discipline Committee's recommendation for
expulsion to enable them to make a submission and/or to appear before the Board. The Board will meet within 10
working days to consider a recommendation for termination of enrolment. Only the Board may terminate a
student's enrolment. Parents have the right of appeal to the IEA against a decision of termination of enrolment by
the School Board.
Probationary Enrolment
Students may be placed on Probationary Enrolment at the discretion of the Enrolment and Discipline Committee.
A student‟s progress and behaviour is closely monitored during this time and at the end of the probationary period
a report will be given to the Enrolment and Discipline Committee.
Port Moresby International School Grades 11-12 Senior Handbook 2012
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Suspensions The Principal may internally suspend a student for up to five days without approval by the Enrolment and
Discipline committee. The Principal may externally suspend a student for a very serious contravention of school
rules. (e.g. swearing at a teacher, major truancy, violent behaviour, and possession of drugs or alcohol). The
Enrolment and Discipline committee will meet within 48 hours when an external suspension has occurred. A
letter will be sent to parents giving details of the reason for suspension. Copies of the letter will be given to the
Grade Coordinator and placed on the student's file. In more serious cases students remain suspended until the
Enrolment and Discipline Committee, which must meet within 5 working days of the incident, consider the case.
The Enrolment and Discipline Committee may warn a student; require the student to do community work; place
the student's enrolment on a probationary basis; suspend the student for a specified period; recommend
termination of enrolment to the Board of Governors.
Suspension and expulsion of students
1. Any suspension of greater than 5 school days or a suspension with a recommendation for expulsion will be
referred to the Enrolment and Discipline Sub-committee of the School Board.
2. The Principal/Deputy taking action to suspend a child will report the suspension immediately to the School
Board Chairman, the student's parents and the IEA.
3. If the suspension is the first stage of possible expulsion procedures, the Enrolment and Discipline Committee
will meet as a matter of urgency, normally within 48 hours, to consider the case.
4. If the Enrolment and Discipline committee recommends expulsion the Board will receive full documentation
relating to the student's behaviour history, counselling, previous suspensions, and attainments. The student
and Parent/Guardian may be invited to address the subcommittee prior to recommendations to the Board.
5. If the Enrolment and Discipline committee recommends expulsion then IEA is to be advised that expulsion
procedures have been commenced.
6. The student and Parents/Guardian will be invited to address the Board prior to any Board decision on
expulsion.
7. If the Board reaches a decision to expel the student, the Secretary and the parents of the student will be
notified by the next day. The School Board may choose to expel a student for the remainder of the particular
year, or permanently.
8. The parents will be advised of their right to appeal to the International Education Agency and to the
International Schools Board against the decision to expel the child.
9. If, after expulsion procedures have commenced, the parents elect to withdraw the student from the school,
expulsion procedures may cease.
10. Withdrawal under the circumstances outlined above would be virtually irrevocable. Only under very unusual
circumstances would re-enrolment be permitted.
11. The Enrolment and Discipline Committee will review this policy during the fourth term of each year.
Students’ Academic Standards Review Committee
Members: The committee will consist of‟- Deputy (Academic),All HODs, IGCSE Co-ordinator, IB Co-ordinator
Procedure
At the end of each semester teachers refer students to the committee taking into account
results, effort and attitude. Students referred should be receiving D & E grades in achievement and effort and
letters of concern should have been sent during the semester. Teachers may make a brief report on a referral pro
forma.
The Deputy (Academic) is responsible for collating all referrals, scheduling meetings and notifying parents.
If a student is referred in two or more subjects (which must not all be taught by the same teacher) they will appear
before the Committee
The student and parents are informed of the date of the Committee meeting and given the opportunity to appear.
At the meeting
Teachers reports on the student are presented ie. the std report sheet
Along with any letters of concern
Student and parents (if present) speak with the committee
Committee reaches a decision
Parents and student are informed of the decision in writing within a week of the meeting
Possible Decisions Open to SASRC
A simple warning to be placed on record
Referral to counselor
Advise to change teacher/subject
Academic Probation and its consequential decisions.
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Academic Probation
The nature of academic probation will depend on whether we are at the end of first or second semester of Grade
9/11 or Grade 10/12
At the end of Grade 9/11 first semester Academic Probation will mean that the student will be referred to
the next semester (ie. semester 2) meeting of the Committee where
The probation will be lifted or
The probation will be extended or
The student will be informed that they cannot proceed into the next grade
At the end of Grade 9/11 second semester Academic Probation will mean that the student will be referred
to the next semester (ie. end of semester 1 the following year when the student is grade 10/12) meeting
of the Committee where
The probation will be lifted or
The student will be informed that they will not be nominated for any exams
At the end of Grade 10/12 first semester Academic Probation will mean that the student will be referred
to a special meeting of the Committee at the end of term 3 where
The probation will be lifted or
The student will be informed that they will not sit for any exams
Where a student is told they cannot proceed to the next grade or that they will not be nominated or sit for
exams they have the right of appeal to the BOG.
ESOL/LEARNER DEVELOPMENT
Port Moresby International School recognises that every student has their own distinct learning needs. Staff in the
ESOL - Learner Development Department work to provide assistance to students who:-
* speak English as a second, or foreign language.
* are ready and able to be extended in their studies.
* are encountering difficulties with their studies.
EMERGENCIES and EVACUATION PROCEDURES
TYPE 1 - EVACUATION OF STUDENTS TO SAFE AREA (EG FIRE, BOMB THREAT)
TYPE 2 - SECURE STUDENTS IN CLASSROOMS (EG SEVERE STORM, CIVIL DISTURBANCE)
TYPE 3 - EVACUATE STUDENTS FROM THE SCHOOL (EG TERRORIST ACTIVITIES, GROSS CIVIL
DISTURBANCE)
- Level 1 - Secure students in classrooms Level 2 - Escalation to Emergency
Collection of students by parents
Students are to be signed out from front office (or desk in situ) by parent or official driver. Under no
circumstances are parents to go to the classrooms or the holding areas to pick up students without first
checking in at the office. Students can then be collected and checked out.
Dated authority to depart slip for each student presented to teacher and then guard - No slip, no departure
In all cases students leaving with other than own family must have written permission (or the departure slip
must indicate a telephone call to the school from the family has been received).
Location of students
Use of loudspeaker system minimized to control levels of student anxiety
Parents collecting students from front office completes a slip with name and grade for each student to be
collected. This slip is needed to release the student from control of the teacher and to leave the school gate.
Student database utilized for rapid student location.
Grade 12 students assist with locating students within school in safe conditions.
Decision taken on school closure
Normally the Executive Director will determine whether or not a school closes. When this is not possible due
to circumstances of the emergency the principal in consultation with the Deputies and if possible with advice
from the School Board and civilian authorities will make the decision.
Where possible compliance with the advice of local authorities will occur, although the final decision will
rest with the principal.
Port Moresby International School Grades 11-12 Senior Handbook 2012
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Type 1 Emergency Type 2 Emergency Type 3 Emergency
Evacuate to Safe Area Evacuate to Classroom Evacuate the School
Continuous siren and PA
announcement
PA Announcement and SIREN
sounds in bursts
of three separated by 10
second intervals
PA Announcement and verbal
messages
If you are in class, await teacher's
command then move directly to
safe area via designated route.
If you are in the play ground and
hear a continuous siren, go directly
to safe area on oval
Move to Safe class areas
Grade 7 Room 20
Grade 8 Room 21
Grade 9 Room Hall
Grade 10 Room Hall
Grade 11 Room 10
Grade 12 Room 22-25
Move to Safe class areas
Grade 7 Room 20
Grade 8 Room 21
Grade 9 Room Hall
Grade 10 Room Hall
Grade 11 Room 10
Grade 12 Room 22-25
Line up in designated area in roll
call order and sit down.
Answer when your name is called.
Remain calm and quiet
Await instructions from Grade
coordinator and wait quietly with
door closed and locked if possible.
Await instructions from Grade
Coordinator and wait quietly with
door closed and locked if possible.
When notified move directly to
school office
If you know the whereabouts of
any missing students,
tell the Grade Coordinator.
Await instructions from Safety
Officer
Decision on school closure
Await instructions from the
principal. If leaving the school
complete sign out form and depart
with family or driver only through
main gate. Show departure slip to
guard.
Decision on school closure
Complete sign out form and depart
with family or driver only through
main gate. Show departure slip to
guard.
Decision on school closure.
EXCURSIONS
Our Excursion Program provides an opportunity for students to be involved in educational activities that relate to
the school curriculum. A number of the excursions are a course work requirement of subjects such as Science,
Geography. Security guards accompany students on excursions in the National Capital District. Permission has
already been obtained from parents when they sign the Enrolment Agreement on enrolment of the student. For
overnight excursion within PNG or overseas a permission slip is sent home. This must be signed for students to
be able to attend. Collection of all money connected with excursions is done through the office.
GRADE FORUMS
These consist of representatives from each roll call group. Grade 12 forum members are responsible for their
common room.
HOMEWORK
All students are expected to do homework regularly.
The minimum requirements are:
Grades 11 and 12: 20 - 25 hours per week. Grade 12 would be expected to work additional significant hours
during their term breaks.
All students have a homework diary, which they should bring to all lessons. Subject teachers and roll call
teachers may check the diary from time to time.
HOUSE SYSTEM
The whole student body is divided up into 4 House groups, which carry Motuan names:
Dina (yellow), Guba (blue), Ranu (green), Tano (red) The House groups are organised by the student House
Captains with the assistance of the teachers in the House groups.
ID CARDS
All students are issued with a photo identity card that should be kept with them at all times. They must show it on
entry at the school and be able to produce it on request to teachers at any time. If a student loses the ID Card
he/she must replace it at once. The cost is K5 and the student must provide a new photo.
INTERNET
The Internet is available in the Library, the 5 Computer labs, and throughout the campus with wireless
connections. Students must have a log-on account, which they can obtain from any Computer Department
Teacher. To maintain your account, the rules as determined by the Computer Department should be followed
strictly.
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LATE ARRIVAL AT SCHOOL OR CLASS
If a student is late in the morning parents/guardians should either give him/her a letter of explanation (including a
contact number in case follow up is required) or accompany the student and sign him/her in. If there is no letter
and the parents/guardians do not provide an explanation in person then the parents/guardians will be phoned and
the student will be issued with a warning letter. The second time that this occurs the parents/guardians will be
contacted again and the student will do detention after school the next day. The third time late will result in the
student doing Community Service after school. The fourth time a student is late without a written explanation or
the parents/guardians explaining in person the parents/guardians will be called to the school for an interview.
Further lateness can result in further disciplinary procedures right up to the level of BOG Discipline Committee.
LEAVING THE SCHOOL PREMISES
While waiting to be collected after school in the afternoon students should wait in the area near the gate. They are
not to wait outside the gate or in the office. No students may go to the Boroko East triangle shops.
LEAVING SCHOOL DURING SCHOOL HOURS
Students are not allowed to leave school during school hours unless they have a note from parents, or your parents
collect them. The Principal or Deputy Principal must sign the note before it is presented to the office. The student
or the person collecting him/her needs to sign the “sign out” book. Leaving school without permission is putting
the student at risk and is also against the school rules.
LEAVERS: STUDENTS
Students must collect a form from the office and collect signatures of all teachers to show that all books etc. have
been returned. They are issued with a transfer certificate on their last day. For further information see a copy of
the leaver's form.
LETTERS OF CONCERN These are sent to parents/guardians to inform them of work that has not been completed, poor performance or any
other areas of concern.
.
LIVING ARRANGEMENTS OF STUDENTS
All students must live with parents or guardians at all times. Where this condition becomes impossible for some
reason the school must be notified immediately, and alternative arrangements be made for the child to live with
and to be cared for by some person over the age of 21. The school must be notified of this arrangement within a
reasonable time of it occurring, or, where an emergency situation arises, within 24 hours of it occurring. Failure to
comply with this condition constitutes a breach in this agreement enabling the school to terminate the student's
enrolment forthwith. Upon such termination the school will no longer be responsible for the well-being, care or
education of the student in question.
LOCKERS
Students may have the use of a locker if they wish. Lockers cost K10.00, which is non-refundable. They will need
to provide themselves with a good strong padlock to keep belongings as safe as possible. Cheap padlocks can be
very easily opened. Students are not allowed to share a locker. Do not leave money or valuable possessions in the
locker. Valuable things, money, mobiles, IPods, etc. should not be brought to school. There are not enough
lockers for everyone and they are hired on a first-come first-served basis. Students can always put their names on
the waiting list if they have missed out on a locker.
MAGAZINE
An excellent school magazine is produced each year by staff and students. Students are encouraged to contribute
to the magazine.
MEDICAL
Students who are sick should go to the front office. If necessary they will be sent with another student. They will
be dealt with by the admin staff. Under no circumstances are students given any medication (including aspirins)
without permission from parents. Under no circumstances will students be sent out of the school by themselves.
All visits to the office are documented to parents.
NEWSLETTER
There is a regular fortnightly Newsletter to parents. This is given out on a Friday. There may be special
Newsletters issued at other times.
PARENTS
Parents are encouraged to contact the school through the administration or Grade Coordinator. Parents are always
welcome in the school.
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PARENT TEACHERS INTERVIEWS
Parents are invited to the School twice a year for Parent/Teacher Interviews. These are held in Term 1 and Term
3. However, parents are invited to the school at any time to discuss with teachers the progress of a student.
Parents are asked to contact Grade Coordinators or the Principal for appointments.
PHONE
There is a phone near the office for students. It may not be used during class time. Phone cards are available from
the office. Students may only use the office phone if the student phone is out of order or for other unforeseen
reasons with the approval of the Grade Co-ordinator or Principal.
PHYSICAL EDUCATION UNIFORM
Physical Education uniforms must be worn during Physical Education classes. Students should bring their
uniforms to school to change into; they may not be worn to school.
PROBATIONARY ENROLMENT
Students may be placed on Probationary Enrolment at the discretion of the Enrolment and Discipline Committee.
A student‟s progress and behaviour is closely monitored during this time and at the end of a probationary period a
report is given to the Enrolment and Discipline Committee.
PROVISIONAL ENROLMENT
All new students in Grades 11 and 12 are automatically placed on Provisional Enrolment. If progress is
satisfactory after one term, enrolment can be confirmed, left on a provisional basis for a further term or
termination of enrolment can be recommended to the Board.
Students with unsatisfactory Grade 10 Results are automatically placed on Academic Probation (see Academic
Standards Review Committee) which means they will appear before the Committee at the end of the first semester
of grade 11.
REFERENCES
All official school references (i.e. those on school letter head) are signed by the Principal, Deputy Principal or
Grade Coordinator. Students requiring a reference are asked to fill in background forms available from the
reception desk.
ROLL CALL
Each morning, after Period 2, students attend roll call with their roll call teacher. Important notices are read out
from the Daily Bulletin each morning. A roll monitor will return the roll to the office.
SAFE STORAGE
Sometimes students will need to bring with them some item or money, which needs to be looked after. It is wise
to ask the Receptionist to keep it safe for you at the office. They will need to sign it in and out of safe keeping.
SECURITY
The school employs guards for both daytime and night time security. Please take every precaution with your own
and school materials; the school does not accept any responsibility for loss or damage to any personal property.
Anything suspicious should be reported directly to one of the guards and to the Manager of Security, Mr. Simon
Wai or the Principal.
SPORTS CARNIVALS
Student participation is the main emphasis of these carnivals. All students are expected to take part and represent
their House.
TAKING CARE OF YOURSELF
Like all major cities, Port Moresby has security problems, which could affect any one of us. There is no need to
be alarmed but it is wise to be aware of some simple ground rules for living safely here:
Dress sensibly.
Keep with friends and / or family.
Do not be alone, especially at night.
Don‟t flash money around.
Don‟t lend money or possessions to people you don‟t know well even if they are in your class. This often
results in ill feeling and there is a chance that things get lost or stolen and you end up the loser.
Tell your parents where you are going and when you expect to be back.
The school asks you to:
Stay inside the school gate until you are picked up after school.
Do not loiter around the Boroko East triangle.
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THEFT
It is important to look after your possessions but should something go missing record it in the Theft Record Book
in the office. The Deputy Principal and the Grade Co-ordinators will closely monitor this and direct appropriate
action. In order to stamp out theft and get those that commit it the help they need, it is very important to report
any information you have about people involved in stealing.
UN CONCERT
Once a year the many nationalities celebrate the different cultures in our school. This evening is a highlight of the
school year and we encourage all parents and students to be involved.
UNIFORM
All students are expected to wear the school uniform. Anyone out of uniform should have a note from his/her
parent/guardian and take steps to replace the item(s) without delay. Students may be sent home if they are
inappropriately dressed.
Grade 11 and 12:
Girls - regulation uniform white unisex shirt and regulation blue skirt or tailored shorts or trousers
Boys - regulation uniform white unisex shirt and regulation blue shorts or trousers
All - for Health & Physical Education the school sports uniform
Black shoes with clearly visible white socks (no ankle socks); the shoes may be training shoes or proper
shoes must they must be all black (no thongs, beach type sandals or boots permitted)
If a hat is worn it must be a school cap or hat; it must not be worn in class/lecture hall.
School shirts should be the correct size. No large out-of-size shirts should be worn.
T-shirts under uniforms must be plain white
USING THE LIBRARY
The PMIS library aims to provide sufficient up-to-date materials in the fiction and non-fiction areas to support the
curriculum and to cater for recreational reading interests. During lesson time you can only come in with your
subject teacher, Senior students on a study period should also come in with their supervisor, or your teacher gives
you a class pass stating the purpose and period of your visit. This pass must be presented to a member of the
library staff as soon as you arrive.
The library should always be a reasonably quiet place, where students can concentrate on their work. There is a
silent reading area and when you are doing group work during class time and need to discuss your work, this must
be done as quietly as possible.
The library has a photocopier for student use.
It will cost you 10t for an A4 copy and 20t for an A3 copy.
Also personal copies are charged at 20t per copy.
The computers in the mini lab in the library are mainly used for internet, word processing and other softwares.
Note the computers are restricted to access certain applications. Therefore these computers should be used in the
way they are to be used. An improper use will result in your user account disabled. The library is a place of
academic activity and so the playing of computer games is not allowed. If you have items of particular value, you
should ask that these be kept behind the library desk until you leave.
Students who damage, steal or attempt to steal library items will be dealt with under the discipline policy.
Pass your library books and textbooks around the security system on your way out, If the system alarm goes off,
you should return to the desk. Books that are found to be damaged when returned will also attract a replacement
cost of the item..
Opening hours The Library is open from 7:30am until 4:00pm on Mondays to Thursdays and on Fridays it is open from 7:30am
until 3:00pm during the term. During school holidays the library is usually open for a week only.
Computerised catalogue The Library‟s catalogue is computerised. The Inquiry machine‟s catalogue lists what the library holds as well as
what is on order or being considered for order. It also can tell you if a particular item is on loan and name of the
person it is on loan to and when it is due.
See library staff if you need assistance with the use of the Inquiry Machine.
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Borrowing
Students should start borrowing 10 minutes to the end of the period, recess, lunch or closing time. Go to the
library desk when you have selected something to borrow.
Present your student ID Card to the Library staff on duty and also present the item(s) you wish to borrow. Ensure
that all items are correctly checked out and a date due stamped before leaving the library. All items, no matter
what type or how short the borrowing period, are to be checked out by library staff. Remember, No ID Card, No
Borrowing.
The number of items allowed out at any one time is set according to your grade level and has been found to suit
most students; however, any student may at any time ask that the number be temporarily increased. The
borrowing period on most items is two weeks.
The library’s resources are for everyone at this school to use. It is therefore important that you take good
care of them and when their borrowing period is over return them promptly so that others may use them.
There is a fine of 10t for each day that an item is overdue. If students are unable to pay the fine on the
spot, it is recorded against your name. Note that when the fine is recorded against your name you will not
be able to borrow anything else which is similar to when you have an overdue item, if you have any
outstanding library books or textbooks, reports or certificates will not be released.
Library procedures require an interval of time to be set after which non-returned items will be assumed lost.
Beyond this point, which is after five overdue notices have been sent, recovery attempts begin with the raising of
an invoice for the replacement cost of the item and a 20% service charge to cover physical processing costs. The
invoice is sent to the parents or guardians and is payable within seven days. Any amounts not received within this
time can be expected to be debited to fee statements or recovered from the enrolment fee in the case of a departing
student.
When you leave PMIS, you are required to return all library items. Your leaver‟s form is signed only when all
transactions with the library have been resolved. A student‟s enrolment fee is reduced by any amount outstanding
on departure.
Textbooks
Students with outstanding textbooks from the previous year will not be able to borrow any new textbooks until the
matter is resolved. The library will not lend any textbooks to students to use for the day because the other copy
was forgotten at home. Textbooks have become part of the range of information available to students through the
library and individual students should not buy these. School fees cover the loan of textbooks. At the beginning of
a new course, your subject teacher will bring you to the library to borrow the books you need for that course.
Textbooks out on loan for a year need to be returned two weeks before the end of the school year. For grade 10
and 12 students all library items will be due two weeks before your graduation day. Students who may require
textbooks after this due date to use to study for exams should make special arrangements with the librarian. You
should check your books for any personal items and erase any pencil marks before returning them. Books with
CDROMs must be returned with the CDROM. Any returned without a CDROM will not be accepted with a full
replacement cost plus a 20% service charge applied. Books discovered to be damaged when returned will also be
charged similarly. Any books lost, however it may be, will also be charged.
Finally... We hope that you enjoy coming to the library and that you will use it regularly and sensibly. Parents and students
who have any queries about any matter above should discuss them with the Librarian.
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The Profile of a POMIS Student
The function of education, therefore, is to teach one to think intensively
and to think critically. But education which stops with efficiency
may prove the greatest menace to society.
The most dangerous criminal may be the man gifted with reason,
but with no morals. . . . We must remember that intelligence is not enough.
Intelligence plus character –that is the goal of true education.
The complete education gives one not only power of concentration,
but worthy objectives upon which to concentrate. . .
(Martin Luther King, The Purpose of Education)
The profile of the POMIS student puts the student at the centre of all that happens at this school. This is the
school motto and mission statement put into graduate outcomes. This profile should inspire and motivate the work
of teachers, students and the larger school community to help create the POMIS graduate we all desire, one who is
able and willing to meet the needs and the challenges of this country and of the world in the 21st Century.
A POMIS Graduate has achieved a level of personal excellence in all areas through genuine and ongoing
commitment to task, while celebrating and appreciating the great diversity in people this world provides, and has
developed into a person of values and value, a person of integrity.
The words of the school motto are enriched with the IEA Key Outcomes, our Values Programme, and the IB
Learner Profile, all of which are important components of the profile. EXCELLENCE
Analyse and solve problems – One who accesses a range of information sources appropriate to the resolution of
complex issues and applies strategies with accuracy and thoroughness.
April: Responsibility: Being reliable, accountable, dependable; trustworthiness.
May: Honesty: Uprightness of character and action. A refusal to lie, steal, cheat, or deceive
in any way. It is the fairness, straightforwardness, and sincerity of conduct.
June: Justice: Fair treatment and due reward with honour; conforming to a moral rightness
in action and attitude.
Knowledgeable: Students explore concepts, ideas and issues that have local and global significance. In so doing,
they acquire in-depth knowledge and develop understanding across a broad and balanced range of disciplines.
Reflective: Students give thoughtful consideration to their own learning and experience. They are able to assess
and understand their strengths and limitations in order to support their learning and personal development.
COMMITMENT
Work collaboratively – One who develops good relationships with others and works in cooperative ways to
achieve common goals.
February: Perseverance: Steady persistence in adhering to a course of action or a goal.
July: Courage: The quality of mind and spirit that enables one to face fear, danger, or trials
in life with self-possession, confidence, and resolution.
Inquirers: Students develop their natural curiosity. They acquire the skills necessary to conduct inquiry and
research and show independence in learning. They actively enjoy learning and this love of learning will be
sustained throughout their lives.
Risk-takers: Students approach unfamiliar situations and uncertainty with courage and forethought, and have
the independence of spirit to explore new roles, ideas and strategies. They are brave and articulate in defending
their beliefs.
Communicators: Students understand and express ideas and information confidently and creatively in more than
one language and in a variety of modes of communication. They work effectively and willingly in collaboration
with others.
DIVERSITY
Communicate effectively – One who confidently conveys and receives information, instruction, ideas, and feeling
appropriately and effectively in a range of different cultural, language, and social contexts.
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March: Compassion: A deep awareness of the sufferings or state of others coupled with a
desire to relieve such suffering.
September: Unity/Citizenship: An awareness of and a willingness to follow and uphold the
duties, rights, and privileges of being a member of a group, state, or country.
October: Friendship: The mutually cooperative and supportive behaviour between two or more
people; a relationship involving mutual knowledge, esteem, affection, respect, and help
in times of need and crisis.
Caring: Students show empathy, compassion and respect towards the needs and feelings of others. They have a
personal commitment to service, and act to make a positive difference to the lives of others and to the
environment.
Open-minded: Students understand and appreciate their own cultures and personal histories, and are open to
the perspectives, values and traditions of other individuals and communities. They are accustomed to seeking and
evaluating a range of points of view, and are willing to grow from the experience.
INTEGRITY
Behave ethically – One who exhibits appropriate morals, manners, and virtues in a range of social and cultural
settings.
Be self-directing – One who is self-confident, has high self-esteem and personal integrity and a positive vision for
self and the future;
August: Respect: To feel or show honour; to treat with deference or regard; to show
consideration for.
November: Integrity: The quality of being honest and upright in character.
Principled: Students act with integrity and honesty, with a strong sense of fairness, justice and respect for the
dignity of the individual, groups and communities. They take responsibility for their own actions and the
consequences that accompany them.
Balanced: Students understand the importance of intellectual, physical and emotional balance to achieve
personal well-being for themselves and others.
Thinkers: Students exercise initiative in applying thinking skills critically and creatively to recognize and
approach complex problems, and make reasoned, ethical decisions.
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ASSESSMENT POLICY & PROCEDURES
Aim
The aim of assessment and evaluation at Port Moresby International School is to measure the students‟
knowledge and understanding of the topics studied, and their competence in the practical skills taught,
for the purpose of:
_ providing feedback to staff in the department on the effectiveness of the teaching strategies used.
_ diagnosis of strengths and weaknesses of individual students or groups of students and facilitating
planning of further learning so as to meet the needs of individual students.
_ identifying areas of the curriculum or teaching program which are inadequate or need to be
reviewed.
_ writing school reports to inform the students and the students' parents of their progress during each
assessment period.
Assessment Instruments
Assessment tasks are designed to measure the students‟ knowledge and understanding of the topics
studied and their competence in the required skills as stated in the course document. The results of these
tasks are accumulated over the semester for the awarding of the relevant Achievement Grade.
In general, the assessment instrument should reflect the learning outcome/s relevant to the task thus
allowing each student's level of attainment to be monitored throughout the semester. The method of
recording the learning outcomes for each student is to be decided at Department level in accordance with
the nature of the particular subjects.
Note that the Achievement Grade is not a summary of the Learning Outcomes.
All classes in a particular course work towards the same goals and the assessment tasks are based on the
specific criteria which are stated in the course documents.
Internal assessment tasks are consistent with external requirements where applicable.
Timing of Assessment Tasks
All students will receive a copy of the course assessment outline within two weeks of the
commencement of the course, giving details of all assessment tasks, the percentage weighting of each
task, their due dates, and the learning outcomes for the course.
Students are given sufficient time to complete assessment tasks, depending on the nature of the task and
the weighting given to the task. The Head of Department, in consultation with the course teachers,
should also consider the workload of the students at the time and other factors which may affect the
group as a whole when setting time allocations and dates for completion of assessment tasks.
Tests should be conducted and assignments collected at the time stated on the assessment outline, unless
another time has been agreed upon, in advance, by the staff and students involved.
All assessment tasks must be assigned so that they can be collected at least one week before the final
assessment date in order that action may be taken if the work is not completed, and also to allow time for
marking of work and processing of results.
Late Submission of Work
Late Submission of Work
Students are encouraged to submit work on time, as this is a valuable organisational skill. Students are
also encouraged to complete work even if it is late as there are educational benefits in doing so. The
purpose of the policy is to ensure equity for all students.
Policy:
1. Except in exceptional circumstances, students must apply for an extension in advance, providing due
cause and adequate documentary evidence for late submission.
a) A late penalty will apply unless an extension is granted. The penalty for late submission is
5% (of possible marks) per calendar day late (including weekends and public holidays) until
the notional zero, calculated in (a), is reached. If an item is more than 7 days late, it receives
the notional zero. Submission on weekends or a public holiday is not acceptable.
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2. The Principal has the right to exercise discretion in the application of the late penalty in special
circumstances with satisfactory documentation.
3. It may not be possible to grade or score work submitted late after marked work in a unit has been
returned to other students.
Absence
Absence for any reason during an assessment period, which results in a student‟s inability to complete
work on time or to an acceptable standard, will be considered separately by the Head of Department,
upon the production of a letter from the parents or a medical certificate.
Teachers must ensure that students who were absent when tasks were assigned, either complete the task
at a later date or, if that is not possible, the student must be given an estimate mark based on their
performance in other tasks. If a student is given a task upon their return after a period of absence, they
should be given the same amount of time to complete the task as the other students. Students should not
be given zero for assessment tasks which were not completed due to absence.
A medical certificate may be required when a student is not able to complete work on time and requires
an extension of the due date or if the student is absent on the due date.
If a student does not provide a letter from parents or a medical certificate then a mark 2 below the lowest
mark for the item will be awarded.
Coursework Requirements
In most subjects coursework is a compulsory part of the curriculum. The internal assessment of
coursework assignments is based on external coursework requirements where applicable. The
assessment and moderation of coursework requires careful planning and collaboration of all staff
involved.
Lost or Stolen Work
Work which has been misplaced for any valid reason should be completed again if possible otherwise the
teacher should estimate a mark for the work.
Moderation of marks for several classes doing the same course
If several classes are doing the same course, their assessment tasks should be marked so as to ensure that
when they are combined to form one group, each student has been given a fair mark in relation to the
students from other classes. Development of an assessment scheme early each semester will spread the
load of marking fairly amongst all teachers teaching the course and minimize the need for statistical
moderation.
Several strategies may be employed in the creation of such a plan:
* One task marked by one teacher for all classes.
* A task can be split into parts and each part can be marked by different teachers for all classes.
* Meetings of teachers involved in marking before marking starts to establish mark scheme and
standards.
* Meetings after marking has finished to compare marking standards of teachers involved.
* Work is marked by more than one teacher (double marking) and then moderated by the Head of
Department.
* The judgement and discretion of the teachers and Head of Department can be used in
cases where other moderation is not appropriate different classes obviously differ in ability.
looking at means and standard deviations of each class indicate that a teacher has
marked too hard or too easy.
or Statistical moderation - if it is obvious that moderation is necessary but no other moderation
alternatives are available. Class marks are scaled to a common mean and standard deviation.
Tasks that are marked by individual teachers and are not common to all classes, for example, bookwork
or homework, should be moderated to establish common standards.
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Combination and Moderation of Marks from Different Tasks
In combining marks from assessment tasks to produce a final semester mark for each student, we must
aim to give each component of the assessment its stated weighting in the final semester total. Marks for
different assessment tasks rarely have the same means and standard deviations. In order to combine the
marks for different tasks to give them their fair weighting we can use the following strategies:
* Statistical moderation - marks for each task are scaled to the same mean and standard deviation
and then combined.
o usually not necessary to scale marks for all tasks for a semester.
o marks for one or two tasks may differ significantly.
o the smaller the weight the less necessary it is to scale.
* No moderation - marks are combined without scaling.
o usually if task means and SD are close.
o for mastery tasks - scaling can sometimes be meaningless.
o individual tasks have small weightings in the final semester total.
o low class numbers.
Report Achievement Grade Descriptors
Students must achieve the majority of criteria to be awarded a particular grade. Students are placed in
rank order following the Department Assessment Policy and awarded one of the following grades by the
Head of Department. Grades are across the course. In subjects where there are different levels e.g.
maths, the level must be stated in the course title.
The Learning Outcome grid shows the student's level of competency.
The Achievement Grade shows the student's accumulated success in assessment items
throughout this semester.
The Achievement Grade is NOT a summary of the Learning Outcomes.
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ACHIEVEMENT GRADE DESCRIPTORS
A Excellent standard
- demonstrates a thorough knowledge and understanding of subject matter, organises
and applies information with a very high degree of success and displays a very high
level of practical and creative abilities
B High standard
- demonstrates a good knowledge and understanding of subject matter, organises and
applies information with a high degree of success and displays a high level of practical
and creative abilities
C Competent standard
- demonstrates a sound knowledge and understanding of subject matter, organises and
applies information with some success and displays a competent level of practical and
creative abilities
D Basic standard
- demonstrates a limited knowledge and understanding of subject matter, organises and
applies information with limited success and displays a limited of practical and
creative abilities
E Below basic standard
- demonstrates little or no knowledge and understanding of subject matter, organises and
applies information with little or no success and displays little or no practical and
creative abilities
GUIDELINES FOR THE AWARD OF EFFORT GRADES A Excellent
- is always conscientious and self motivated, always participates cooperatively in class
activities and is always well organised and prepared
B Good
- is consistently conscientious and self motivated, consistently participates cooperatively
in class activities and is consistently well organised and prepared
C Satisfactory
- is usually conscientious and self motivated, usually participates cooperatively in class
activities and is usually organised and prepared
D Poor
- seldom displays any self motivation, sometimes participates cooperatively in class
activities and is sometimes organised and prepared
E Unsatisfactory
- very rarely displays any self motivation, is very rarely cooperative in class activities
and is very rarely organised and prepared
Timing of examinations and reports
Term 1:
Progress Review undertaken for all students. (Week 6-7)
All students in Grades 7 - 12 receive a profile to indicate progress. (Second last week of term)
Parent/Teacher Interview (Week 10)
Special note to be made of students on provisional enrolment.
Term 2:
Grades 9 to 12 have examinations. (Weeks 6-7)
All students receive a full report. (This is distributed in Week One of Term 3)
Term 3: Parent/Teacher Interview (Week 2)
Students of concern are identified by teachers and reported to Grade Coordinators who follow up with
parents and/or students.
Trial IGCSE and PNG examinations (Week 4-5).
Term 4: All students receive a full report. (Grades 7, 8, 9, 11 W10; Grade 10 W9)
There are examinations in Grades 9 and 11 in most subjects. (Week 7-8)
Grade 10 external examinations for PNG students and for IGCSE students.
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Curriculum Information
WHERE TO?
Port Moresby International School offers three pathways to a tertiary entrance qualification.
PNGHSC. By studying the required subjects in Grade 11 and Grade 12 you can qualify for the Papua New
Guinea Higher School Certificate (PNGHSC). Universities in Papua New Guinea recognize the PNGHSC.
(Universities around the world recognize the IB. The ACT qualification is most familiar to Australian
universities).
ACT. By choosing a suitable combination of courses and sitting the AST (Australian Scaling Test) in Grade
12 you can qualify for an Australian Capital Territory Tertiary Entrance Rank (UAI). The ACT certificate is
an internationally accepted curriculum and is able to be used for entrance to universities in Australia and with
consideration, elsewhere.
IB. By choosing a required combination of courses, taking Theory of Knowledge and writing an Extended
Essay you can qualify for an International Baccalaureate Diploma. (An IB Diploma course with the AST will
qualify you for an ACT Tertiary Entrance Score.)
WHO CAN HELP?
The staff of Port Moresby International School are all vitally concerned with the welfare of the students. The staff
in the following positions in the school are the people most likely to be able to assist you with any problems or
questions that you might have.
Deputy Principal Academic
The Deputy in this role has a responsibility to ensure that your chosen subjects fit within a designated pathway
and will assist you in achieving your post-school goals. He will also advise you on the appropriateness of subject
selections. The Deputy Principal is also able to assist with American College Board Tests - Registration for SAT
and Achievement tests.
The Timetable Administrator – Deputy Academic
The timetable administrator is available to discuss your subject selections and to advise which options are
possible. He will also ensure that your selection of subjects meets the requirements of the designated pathway
you wish to take.
Grade Coordinators Grade Coordinator‟s are responsible for monitoring and assisting with the students' social and academic progress.
Your grade coordinator, „coordinates‟ all issues related to your grade. This may include; dances, camps, guest
speakers, and special events. Your grade coordinator is also the person who monitors students overall
performance.