Secondary School

This spring, AP Biology students learned how to do gel electrophoresis, a common biotechnology tool. DNA previously cut by enzymes is loaded into tiny wells on an agarose gel submerged in an electrically conductive solution. Agarose is a highly purified polysaccharide from red sea algae. DNA is highly negatively charged due to its many phosphate groups. When an electric current is applied through the solution and the gel, DNA fragments migrate towards the positive electrode and away from the negative electrode. Shorter pieces of DNA are less impeded by the agarose matrix and migrate faster. Larger fragments move slower. As the DNA migrates through the gel, the fragments of DNA separate into a ladder of DNA bands. In the past, high school labs used a blue dye that often resulted in poor visualization of the DNA bands. Ethidium bromide is used in research labs to visualize DNA bands, but ethidium bromide is a potent mutagen and is not suitable for use by high school students. With a new, safe fluorescent dye paired with the use of an orange filter, DNA bands can be visualized with the same clarity as if using ethidium bromide. The resulting banding pattern of the separated DNA fragments is very satisfying.

Over the past week, students have taken an active role in exploring the evolution of American foreign policy through research, collaboration, and discussion. Students analyzed George Washington’s warnings about foreign affairs, explored the lasting importance of the Monroe Doctrine, and debated how Manifest Destiny influenced U.S. expansion. Through presentations and inquiry‑based learning, they compared the foreign policies of Progressive Era presidents—McKinley, Theodore Roosevelt, Taft, and Wilson—and evaluated how U.S. involvement in World War I and World War II helped shape the modern world. Students also examined the influence of the military‑industrial complex and traced key continuities and changes in American foreign policy from the Cold War to today. Throughout the week, students demonstrated strong critical‑thinking skills as they researched historical evidence, presented arguments, and engaged in meaningful debates. To conclude the unit, students are eagerly preparing for a mock trial that will challenge them to answer a compelling question: Has American foreign policy been more constructive or destructive? Way to go!

Our combined AP and IBDP Art class wrapped up the year with a wonderful exhibition celebrating the hard work and creativity of six talented TIS secondary students. Their pieces explored a range of meaningful ideas—from gender in sports to the role food plays in shaping culture—each one offering a unique and personal perspective.

It was an inspiring showcase that highlighted their growth, dedication, and artistic voices. We’re so proud of everything they’ve accomplished!

Our students are diving into Unit E09, which focuses on solving quadratic equations. They are learning how the graphs of quadratic functions reveal important information about solutions—specifically, whether solutions exist and how many there are. By analyzing the points where the graph intersects with the x-axis, students can determine the number of solutions to a quadratic equation.

In addition to graphing, students are using tables of values to explore patterns and connections. These tools help them see how quadratic functions apply to real-world situations, such as modeling the path of a ball in motion or predicting maximum profit in a business scenario. The combination of graphing and tables is giving them both a visual and numerical way to understand quadratics more deeply.

We’re excited to see students making these connections and applying math concepts beyond the classroom!

Students in the 12-year-old mathematics class are currently developing their understanding of rational and irrational numbers, exponent rules, and scientific notation. To support learning and skill practice, students complete a blend of IXL activities and assignments aligned with the course textbook. In class, students also participate in IXL Group Jams, which provide immediate feedback, encourage collaboration, and help clarify misconceptions in real time. Looking ahead, the final two units of the year will focus on analyzing and solving linear equations, as well as exploring probability.

Ms. Lisa's Secondary II Writing students dressed to impress and presented the findings of their 8-week research projects that resulted in 37 six- to eight-page research papers on a diverse array of topics of their choice. Student research included problems and solutions, in-depth study, and argument with all students drawing very interesting conclusions. Some examples include:

• Population Growth in Japan and India
• Lowering the Vote to 16
• The Impact of Pretty Privilege on Law Enforcement
• Immigration's Effect on Economies and Its Ethical Justification
• The Portrayal of Women in Monotheistic Religious Texts and Its Effects on Sexism
• The Weakening of Languages and Cultural Identity by English
• Society's Devaluing of a Humanities Degree
• Coral Reef Habitat Fragmentation: A Silent Killer
• The Pablo Escobar Effect on Colombia
• China's Transition to Nuclear Energy
• Internet Shutdowns in Iran and How They Conceal Human Rights Abuses