Community Blogs
The Ethics of Over Consumption
As part of the Grade 10 Individuals and Societies (I&S) Rights and Social Protest unit, students engaged in a Service as Action project focused on issues they felt passionate about. Elvira chose to explore the ethics of overconsumption and wrote a thought-provoking article on the topic.
- Read more here.
EcoSoc Leaders meeting with Dr Annette Patzelt
- Written by Angela Jabbour
Recently, Nara Molavi, Mr MacKenzie and I had the honour of meeting with Dr Annette Patzelt, former ABA parent, author on invasive species in Oman and the region and professor for botany and vegetation science at the University of applied sciences Weihenstephan-Triesdorf. Our meeting was to discuss the last 3 year research undertaken by ABA students on the negative impacts of an invasive species in Qurum Nature Reserve.
Sea purslane, an invasive species from Hawaii and Central America, has spread rapidly across the tropics but remains understudied in the GCC. Limited research from Egypt suggests minimal impact on biodiversity, likely due to a lack of data. This presents an opportunity for ABA to assess its effects in Qurum Nature Reserve, where it is widespread, and in Bandar Khiran, where it is absent, using bioindicators. Additionally, new developments in Bandar Khairan pose a threat to mangroves, making it crucial for ABA to advise authorities on preventing the introduction of sea purslane and mesquite. Moving forward, ABA will continue monitoring and compiling findings into a report for global stakeholders.
The removal of mesquite, the primary invasive species to Oman, has been successful by cutting the tree to the stump and treating it to prevent regrowth. However, removing sea purslane is more challenging, with two main methods: mechanical removal, which involves lifting the roots and is effective but costly, and covering areas with black plastic for six months to starve the plants of sunlight. Both methods require long-term monitoring for 2-3 years, followed by reseeding with mangroves to prevent further invasion. ABA will continue collaborating with EA, and potentially ESO or OBG, while focusing on sea purslane control, plastic clean-up, and monitoring nutrient loads with EOA.
It was agreed that it is crucial to take immediate action in protecting the mangroves by removing the invasive species. Mangrove regeneration would be most effective if we can also focus on replanting mangrove seedlings from the nursery to replace the damaged mangroves. This can prevent the invasive species from taking over again by decreasing the edge effect. It was also agreed that filling the gap in research is necessary to convince the authorities that sea purslane is indeed a threat that should be mitigated as soon as possible.
What is the Concept-Based Inquiry Math (CBIM) Project?
CBIM uses intentional learning engagements that ensure children build on prior knowledge in order to construct meaning about mathematics. It is a “three-dimensional curriculum” that fosters student agency, and builds conceptual understanding allowing children to transfer what they’ve learned to new situations. This approach empowers students to make sense of mathematics and develop confidence in their mathematical reasoning and problem-solving, giving them the foundation they need to succeed. - Read more here.
Supporting the Whole Child: The Role of Cognitive Development Assessments in Education
Cognitive development is a fundamental aspect of a child's growth that influences how they think, learn, and interact with the world. Understanding this development is crucial for educators, parents, and students alike, as it provides insights into how children process information and overcome challenges. One effective tool in measuring the cognitive development of children is the Cognitive Abilities Test (CAT4) developed by GL Education. This assessment not only measures cognitive abilities but also guides stakeholders in supporting the holistic development of the child and allows us at ABA to see the hidden potential of every student. - Read more here.
Pursuing My Creative Passion: A Journey from ABA to the Global Art Space
Looking back at my time at ABA Oman International School, it’s hard to believe how much has changed since I graduated in 2024. Today, I’m living in the Netherlands, studying Creative Business at Breda University of Applied Sciences. But my passion for art, something that started long before I entered ABA, is what continues to fuel my journey. Recently, I took a huge step and launched my own website where I sell my artwork. It’s an exciting new venture—my paintings, digital art, and mixed media pieces are now available to a global audience. Sharing my creations with the world is a dream come true, and I’m eager to see where it leads me. - Read more here.
Math with Miss Molly
At ABA, students are empowered to be thinkers and innovators, not just followers of procedures. They’ve been exploring the science of learning math through a resource called "Inspirational Math." As they make mistakes and face challenges, they’re discovering that their brains grow with each experience. It’s wonderful to hear them celebrate their growth and connections! Read this article by Miss Molly, our Math Coordinator at ABA, to learn how we’re fostering a joyful and thoughtful approach to math for your child.
Oman’s mountain oases offer ancient farming lessons for a warming future
Oman's mountain oases, nestled in the northern highlands, offer valuable insights into sustainable agriculture, a practice honed over more than a millennium. These traditional farming methods, which have thrived in dryland ecosystems, face challenges from rapid socioeconomic changes and the increasing impact of climate change. At higher altitudes, shifts in temperature are affecting crop viability, but agritourism, high-value traditional products, and new cash crops present promising opportunities for maintaining the economic vitality of these ancient landscapes.
This article is written by Ruth Kamnitzer, mother of Alum Cullum Ross, who returned to Canada in 2020. - Read more here.
A day in Muscat by Tahir Khanzadah
Are you expecting guests and need some ideas to show them around Muscat? Read Tahir's blog - A day in Muscat! - Read more here.
Hope's story by Angela Jabbour
"I still remember that moment as clear as day, yet it was as quick as a flash that I almost missed it. It’s funny how fate acts that way; if I had never seen her she would have died and we would not be here today, each one of us with a lesson to share. Her name is Hope, she is a one-eyed dog and I spotted her on our drive home from the vet last Summer (May 2022)". - Read more here.