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Port Moresby International School – Grades 7-10 Handbook 2012
1
PORT MORESBY
INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL
GRADES 7 - 10
HANDBOOK
2012
Port Moresby International School – Grades 7-10 Handbook 2012
2
TABLE OF CONTENTS
POMIS MISSION AIMS and VALUES 3
IEA OUTCOMES 3
2012 STAFF 4
SCHOOL FEE POLICY 5
GRADE 9 & 10 PATHWAYS & COURSE SELECTION 6
COURSE REQUIREMENTS AND CERTIFICATION STATUS 7
COMMON QUESTIONS 8
RULES and PROCEDURES 9
CONSEQUENCES FOR STUDENT BEHAVIOUR ISSUES 10
STUDENTS ACADEMIC STANDARDS REVIEW COMMITTEE 11
EMERGENCIES AND EVACUATION PROCEDURES 13
UNIFORM 17
USING THE LIBRARY 17
ASSESSMENT POLICY and PROCEDURES 19
THE PROFILE OF A POMIS STUDENT 23
Port Moresby International School – Grades 7-10 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 7-10 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
Port Moresby International School – Grades 7-10 Handbook 2012
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Mr. William Teka English
Mrs. Joyce Tokauba English
Ms. Valerie Tulasoi Humanities
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 7-10 Handbook 2012
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PATHWAYS AT PMIS
GRADE 7 & 8
International Preparatory Years Including Cambridge International Exams Grade 8 Checkpoint Exams (optional)
International Course Papua New Guinea Course
IGCSE
Available to: All PMIS students
Criteria: Students paying the
International fee in grade 9 & 10 will
do the IGCSE Eng & Maths exams.
They may opt to do others at extra cost
per exam
N.B. Papua New Guinean students can elect this
course and complete the PNGSC
requirements.
PNG School Certificate
Available to: All PNG Students
Criteria: Students must sit the examinations and
meet other criteria as determined by the
PNG Department of Education.
Compulsory for PNG citizens
SELECTING YOUR COURSE
Choosing subjects is an important step and there are certain points you should bear in mind.
Consult your subject teachers and listen to what they have to say.
Do not choose a subject only because you like the teacher. Next year you may get a different teacher.
Choose subjects and not teachers.
Do not choose a subject because your friend has chosen it. It is your own future you must consider.
You may need to choose a subject that you do not like at the moment, because it is essential for a career that
you are interested in.
If you need advice, ask for it. If the person you ask cannot help s/he will direct you to someone who can.
Most employers welcome people who have a broad education, who are adaptable and who have shown that they
are capable of achieving a reasonable standard in a variety of subjects, rather than people who have only a
narrow range of skills.
WHO CAN HELP!
Make sure that you get as much help and advice as you can. The following are people you should ask for help:
Your parents
The staff who teach you at present are the best people to advise you about prospects in their subjects.
The Heads of Departments or Teachers-in-Charge of particular subjects.
Your Grade Coordinator
The Deputy Principals Mr. Steven Rowley & Mrs. Keuts Vui-Neuendorf
The Principal Mr. Christopher West
NOT ALL SUBJECTS OUTLINED IN THIS BOOKLET WILL NECESSARILY BE RUN IN 2008.
THERE ARE MINIMUM NUMBERS REQUIRED BEFORE COURSES WILL BE TIMETABLED.
Port Moresby International School – Grades 7-10 Handbook 2012
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COURSE REQUIREMENTS
Grade 7&8: All students follow a general course consisting of English Language; Mathematics; Science;
Society and Environment, LOTE (French); Craft, Design and Technology OR Home Economics; Art OR Music;
Health and Physical Education; Personal Development; Computer Applications. In English, Maths and Science
students follow the Cambridge International Exams Lower Secondary programme. Papua New Guinean students
in Grade 8 are given extra preparation for the Certificate of Basic Education Grade 8 Examinations. Students
may elect to sit the Cambridge International Checkpoint exams in English, Mathematics and Science at the end
of grade 8. There is an extra cost per exam which is dependent on the exchange rate at the time. These
examinations will be compulsory for all students entering Grade 7 in 2011.
The two-year course required by Grades 9 - 10 students at PMIS is:
All students must study:
English (Advanced/Intermediate)
Mathematics (Advanced/Intermediate)
Science (Co-ordinated or Combined)
Humanities (History, Geography or Social Science)
3 Electives (These are offered for individual choice)
Health and Physical Education
Personal and Social Education
THE INTERNATIONAL GENERAL CERTIFICATE OF SECONDARY EDUCATION
Students who wish to attain an IGCSE qualification need to consult the following subject guide to determine
which subjects are following the IGCSE syllabus. There is no minimum or maximum number of subjects
required except for the attainment of the International Certificate of Education (ICE), which is awarded the
status of Pass, Merit or Distinction. The ICE requires seven or more IGCSE subjects, including two from the
Languages group, and one from each of the Humanities, Sciences, Mathematics and Creative, Technical &
Vocational groups. The decision to enter for the IGCSE examinations is made during Grade 10 at which time a
fee is set by Cambridge. Those who pay the International Fee automatically sit the English and Maths IGCSE.
THE PAPUA NEW GUINEA SCHOOL CERTIFICATE
Students who wish to be awarded a PNG School Certificate must take
English, Mathematics, Science, Social Science and at least two of the following subjects: Business Studies ,
Music, Art and Design, Design and Technology, Family and Consumer Studies, Information Technology or
Computer Applications
CERTIFICATION STATUS OF EACH SUBJECT
Listed below is a table that highlights the qualification that each subject may lead to:
IGCSE PNG SC
English - First Language * *
Mathematics * *
Combined/Coordinated Science * *
French *
Geography *
History *
Social Science *
Additional Mathematics *
Art and Design * *
Business Studies * *
Computer Applications *
Information Technology * *
Design and Technology * *
Music *
Family and Consumer Studies *
Health and Physical Education
Port Moresby International School – Grades 7-10 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.
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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.
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
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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.
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.
CONSEQUENCES FOR BEHAVIOUR ISSUES
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
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.
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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.
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.
STUDENT 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 accountresults, 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.
Port Moresby International School – Grades 7-10 Handbook 2012
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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.
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.
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.
Port Moresby International School – Grades 7-10 Handbook 2012
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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.
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.
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.
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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 Home Room. Grade 12 forum members are responsible for their
common room.
HOME ROOM
Each morning, after Period 2, students attend Home Room with their Home Room teacher. Important notices are
read out from the Daily Bulletin each morning. A roll monitor will return the roll to the office.
HOMEWORK
All students are expected to do homework regularly.
The minimum requirements are:
Grades 7&8 8 -10 hours per week
Grades 9 10 - 15 hours per week.
Grade 10 15 -20 hours per week plus significant hours during their term breaks.
All students should have a homework diary; this is compulsory for Grade 7 and 8 students. They must bring this
to all lessons. Subject teachers and roll call teachers 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.
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.
Port Moresby International School – Grades 7-10 Handbook 2012
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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.
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.
PRIZES AND CERTIFICATES
Prizes and Certificates are awarded at Graduation/Presentation ceremonies held at the end of the year.
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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.
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.
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.
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UNIFORM
All students are expected to wear the school uniform, all day, to and from school. 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 7 to 8
Girls - regulation uniform green dress/tunic
Boys - regulation uniform green shirt and regulation blue shorts
All - for Health & Physical Education the regulation PE uniform
Black shoes with clearly visible white socks (no ankle socks); the shoes may be training shoes or proper
shoes but 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
Grade 9 to 10
Girls - regulation uniform blue unisex shirt and regulation blue skirt or tailored shorts or trousers
Boys - regulation uniform blue unisex shirt and regulation blue shorts or trousers
All - for Health & Physical Education the regulation PE uniform
Black shoes with clearly visible white socks (no ankle socks); the shoes may be training shoes or proper
shoes but 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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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.
Port Moresby International School – Grades 7-10 Handbook 2012
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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.
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
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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.
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
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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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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.
Port Moresby International School – Grades 7-10 Handbook 2012
24
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.
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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