teach uae magazine issue 1 volume 1

YASMINE TAHHAN:STEPS OUTSIDE THE BOX WITH DIFFERENTIATION

THE THREE CS TO GAINING YOUR STUDENTS’ TRUST

DOING IT RIGHT:MULTICURRENCY INTERNATIONALSAVINGS PLANS

QUIXOTIC QATARA MOMENT

WITHSUDESH

SHANKAR

MAY, 2014, VOL. 1 ISSUE 1

MISSIONSTATEMENT

“Our vision is to equip educators with the materials and tools to function optimally inside and out of the classroom. Teach UAE Magazine provides a space for educators to connect, �nd inspiration, resources and forums that are aimed at enhancing their teaching techniques, methodologies and personal development.”

TEACH UAE MAGAZINE

CON TENTTHERE IS NO SUCH THING AS AN OUTSTANDING LESSON

THE THREE CS TO GAINING YOUR STUDENTS’ TRUST

PESPECTIVES

CLASS TIME

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FOUR SIMPLE TIPS TO HELP MAKE TEACHING SCIENCE FUN

FLIPPING CPD

AL NASHA’A AL SALEH: CHARTING A PATH TO SUCCESS

INSIDE THE UAE STAFFROOM: DOS AND DON’TS

YASMINE TAHHAN – STEPS OUTSIDE THE BOX WITH DIFFERENTIATION

CON TENTA MOMENT WITH SUDESH SHANKAR

QUIXOTIC QATAR

LEOPOLD’S OF LONDON: MORE THAN JUST YOUR AVERAGE BURGER

AFTER THE BELL

2022

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30 SPECIAL DAYS IN MAY

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SNAPSHOTS OF SEVILLE, SPAIN

DOING IT RIGHT: MULTICURRENCY INTERNATIONAL SAVINGS PLANS

REGAIN CONTROL…TAKE THE POWER BACK

6 QUICK MAKE-UP TIPS FOR THE BUSY EDUCATOR

THE EXCEPTIONAL PORSCHE CAYENNE PLATINUM EDITION

KNOW YOUR UAE - SHEIKH ZAYED PALACE MUSEUM IN AL AIN

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Class TimeMay 20144

Teach UAE Magazine®

EDITORIAL DIRECTORCarolyn Lee [email protected]

ART DIRECTORMona Al [email protected] 00971 50 693 5986

SALES MANAGERGrace [email protected]

CONTRIBUTORSBarika Bettis, Richie Chin, Aaron Crotty, Aisha Shakti Hakim, Jan L. Jones, Carolyn Lee, Maryann Reid, Leisa Simapili

PUBLISHED BYMoftah Publishing FZ LLC(Registered at Fujairah Creative City)

[email protected]

WEBSITEwww.teachuae.comwww.facebook.com/TeachUAEMagazine

The United Arab Emirates is home to thousands of dedicated, talented and inspiring educators, some of whom are locals, while others are expatriates. As educators ourselves, it is important to us at Teach UAE Magazine that we stay connected to each other and create a powerful network in which we can develop and empower each other.

It is with this in mind that we are proud to be the first magazine that specifically caters to educators within the UAE and the MENA region. Our goal is to facilitate a melting pot of creative ideas that work effectively and efficiently within the educational structure of the region. These ideas are dealt with explicitly and in part in the Class Time section of this magazine.

A big part of development speaks to our personal development as well as developing how we interact with each other. We are only at our best when we are functioning from a purposeful and healthy state of being. Educators are amazing

inside and outside of the classroom. As such, our After The Bell section focuses on key lifestyle areas with specific sections, which are designed to foster a truly balanced lifestyle.

As a professional magazine, we pride ourselves on offering a product that is of a very high standard. It is our intent that as we progress, our approach evolves to suit the demands of our educators inside and outside of the classroom.

We thank you for the opportunity to share this exciting new magazine with you and we invite you to share your thoughts and ideas with us as we embark on this wonderful new journey together.

____________________

CAROLYN LEEEditorial Director

Copyright 2013 Moftah Publishing FZ LLC. All rights reserved. Neither this publication nor any part of it may

be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or

by any means electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise,

without the permission of Moftah Publishing FZ LLC. Where opinion is

expressed, it is that of the author and does not necessarily reflect the editorial

views of the publisher or Teach UAE Magazine.

All information in Teach UAE Magazine is checked and verified to the best of the publisher’s ability, however, the

publisher cannot be held responsible for any mistake or omission enclosed in the

publication.

EDITOR’S MESSAGE...

EDUCATORS ! It is time for us to blog about all that we share in common. Teach UAE invites you to share your articles with us as we strive to connect, develop and empower our colleagues within this noble profession. We welcome educators from KG to tertiary. All contributions will be credited to the authors.

Teach UAE Magazine @TEACHUAE_MAGteachuae.com

SUBMIT YOUR ARTICLES

• Student Engagement• Behaviour Management• School Inspection• 21st Century Skills• Knowing Your Learner• Education Trends• Classroom Environment• Reading/Literacy• Teaching Mathematics• Teaching Science• CPD Opportunities• Lesson Planning• Assessment

SUBJECT AREAS:

For additional information on how you can share with us, please send an email to [email protected] along with your area of interest and a sample of your writing. We value your input and look forward to meeting with you.

CONNECT. DEVELOP. EMPOWER.We cannot live only for ourselves. A thousand fibres connect us with our fellow men; and among those fibres, as sympathetic threads, our actions run as causes, and they come back to us

as effects.

- Herman Melville

https://www.facebook.com/TeachUAEMagazine

http://teachuae.com/

EDUCATORS ! It is time for us to blog about all that we share in common. Teach UAE invites you to share your articles with us as we strive to connect, develop and empower our colleagues within this noble profession. We welcome educators from KG to tertiary. All contributions will be credited to the authors.

Teach UAE Magazine @TEACHUAE_MAGteachuae.com

SUBMIT YOUR ARTICLES

• Student Engagement• Behaviour Management• School Inspection• 21st Century Skills• Knowing Your Learner• Education Trends• Classroom Environment• Reading/Literacy• Teaching Mathematics• Teaching Science• CPD Opportunities• Lesson Planning• Assessment

SUBJECT AREAS:

For additional information on how you can share with us, please send an email to [email protected] along with your area of interest and a sample of your writing. We value your input and look forward to meeting with you.

Class TimeMay 20146

OUR CONTRIBUTORS...Barika has enjoyed an extensive career conducting Biomedical research in the United States in the areas of Medicine, Pathology and Neuroscience. During this time, she published several abstracts in various journals which contributed to the research community. She currently teaches MS/HS Science

and Biology. She enjoys a student-centered approach to education. Ms Bettis is currently pursuing her Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction.

Richie Chin is an avid traveller who enjoys cooking and sharing his exploits with close friends. He has been an educator for over sixteen years. Mr Chin currently teaches in the UAE.

Aaron is a certified Senior Financial Planner with over seven (7) years experience in the financial industry. Originally based in the UK, Aaron has enjoyed an illustrious career in which he has functioned in a number of senior advisory and managerial roles…including that of Financial Advisor with leading UK bank NatWest. Mr Crotty is based in Dubai where he utilises his expertise representing Guardian Life Management. In his current role, Aaron advises fellow professional expats on every aspect of their financial planning needs. He is perfectly placed to ensure his clients’ financial plans become a reality.

Shakti is an educator who has also worked as a Licensed Healthcare Practitioner of various healing modalities. Originally a native of Brooklyn, New York, Shakti now lives & works in Al Ain, UAE. She is the author of “The Busy Babe’s Guide to Wellness: 8 Steps to a Healthier You Now!” which is available online on amazon.com.

Jan L. Jones (Associate Professor) is currently the Travel and Tourism Management Advisor and Undergraduate Coordinator in the Department of Recreation and Leisure Studies at Southern Connecticut State University in New Haven, Connecticut. Born in Halifax, Canada, she earned both a Bachelors and Masters of Arts in Sociology from Acadia University. She also holds a PhD in Sport, Leisure and Exercise Science from the University of Connecticut with a particular focus on the impacts of tourism development. Her research has taken her abroad to Cuba, Ireland, Jordan, Jamaica, Cyprus, and Crete conducting studies about community-based tourism development, responsible tourism and VolunTourism.

Maryann, an educator from New York, has a passion for writing stories that address the lifestyle concerns of busy, successful women.

Barika Bettis

Richie Chin

Aaron Crotty

Shakti Hakim

Dr Jan L. Jones

Maryann Reid

Leisa is an educator with over seventeen (17) years experience both as a teacher and administrator. She is a trained Linguist who speaks fluent Spanish. Leisa is currently an Academic Vice Principal at a Cycle One School in Al Ain. She is passionate about teaching and learning.

Leisa Simapili

http://www.amazon.com/The-Busy-Babes-Guide-Wellness-ebook/dp/B00BV6GI62/ref=cm_sw_em_r_dp_XI1Nsb1QESXFR_tt

May 2014Class Time 7

TeachUAE Poster School AD Ready for Print.pdf 1 4/5/2014 12:49:01 PM

8 Class TimeMay 2014

Ihave been very privileged in my career to work with some really talented teachers. They have challenged me to do better and

expect more of my students. As an administrator, I have also had the opportunity to observe some great teachers at work and they are the ones who make the difficult job of teaching and learning look easy. Yet, despite how talented these professionals are, they still have the notion hanging over their heads, that whenever they are observed they must produce an outstanding lesson. Over time, through teaching and observing, I have become increasingly convinced that there is no such thing as an outstanding lesson.

Observing a standalone lesson for forty-five minutes or one hour will not provide sufficient long term evidence of progress, except the performance of the teacher and students on the day. We have long known that when we are being observed as teachers, we tend to do things a little differently. In reality, even the students themselves act differently when there is someone else in the room.

Teachers often put themselves under enormous pressure to ensure that the lesson has all the right elements and

that it is all singing, all dancing. This pressure is applied in order to avoid not receiving negative feedback. It therefore means that as administrators, we need to rethink how we give feedback. I have now resorted to not mentioning the following words when I give feedback; outstanding, good, poor or any word which could be seen as a judgement. Instead, I ask a series of questions which will help to paint a picture of what is taking place in that classroom on a daily basis and tie that in with what I recently observed. The questions I ask include the following:

• Where does this lesson fit in with the outcomes that are being covered?

• What have students had to learn in order to get to this point?

• What did they already know?

• How will you develop what students have done so far?

• How might the next lesson be adapted in light of what happened in this lesson?

• How do you know if students are making progress?

• Why did you make the decisions you made in today’s lesson?

• Is there anything you might do differently?

These are the kinds of questions which rightly support the fact that teachers are professionals and make informed judgments about how and what they teach. When the teachers answer these questions, I then look for confusion or uncertainty which indicates that the teacher needs some help. However, if the teacher has thought about his/her teaching and knows his/her students really well then that is an opportunity for me to learn from the teacher’s experiences and to know exactly what is happening in that classroom on a daily basis.

If the aim of giving feedback is to condemn a professional, then looking for the elusive outstanding lesson is the way to go. Conversely, if our focus is on quality teaching and learning for all students, then let us make the lesson feedback process a developmental one. There is no such thing as an outstanding lesson but there are definitely outstanding teachers.

THERE IS NO SUCH THING AS AN OUTSTANDING LESSONBy Leisa Simapili

Administrators′ Corner


After reviewing my student evaluations from the past six years when applying for tenure, I noticed that students

more often commented on how I treated them rather than about what they learned. Their comments reminded me of our middle school motto in Canada, which was “Caring, Courtesy and Cooperation”. When I really thought about it, I realized that this motto really captures my approach to getting to know students.

CaringI tell my students all of the time that I care about them. If they skip class, I ask them why they were not there or I tell them that I missed them. When they do not hand in assignments, I meet with them to find out why. If they fall asleep, I ask them if they are okay and they often are not. On the first day of class, I take a photo of students and I have them tell me something about themselves that I might not know just by looking at them. I go home and memorize each of their names. Knowing their name is a small gesture to let them know that I care about who they are and what they can contribute to the class.

I find that students and other colleagues sometimes think that being kind is synonymous with being an easy grader when really it is quite the opposite. If you provide a nurturing environment and let students know that their success matters to you, they usually work harder. Remind your students that setting high standards for them is in fact just a way of letting them know that you do care.

Courtesy When teaching I have found it useful to discuss mutual respect at the very beginning of the semester. With technology today people in general expect instant responses to questions. I remind my students that I am a mom and that when I do not respond to their late night assignment questions, it is not because I don’t care, but because I have other obligations. I do not give out my cell phone number but I make it very clear when and how students can reach me before assignments are due. I remind them that their lack of organization or procrastination does not constitute my emergency. I also let them know that I understand that life happens and that sometimes you just have to deal with the consequences.

CooperationI try to promote a classroom environment that encourages students to work together. Even when I am teaching large classes, I will involve group work. While students often begrudge having to work together, they almost always pull together and succeed. I include collaborative tasks in my lessons because they force students to become a bit more aware of the realities of the real world. There they will need to work with different personalities, deal with unexpected problems and still collaborate with colleagues to accomplish an end goal. The best projects I have seen are those that required cooperation and collaboration amongst students with many different talents.

My students know that I have little patience for drama or missing deadlines due to group member issues. Therefore they strive to accomplish their group tasks with minimal to no teacher input when faced with personality clashes or the general administration of the group. Just this semester, I gave a special award to a group of students who had to present without a group member. They did not tell me the person was missing, complain that they could not present or even let on if it had impacted their work. This kind of cooperation and support for other people is something that the world could use more.

In middle school, I won the Principal’s award for Caring, Courtesy and Cooperation and really never realized what an impact it would have on my life and career. I have been very lucky over the years to have teachers and professors who had a passion for teaching but more importantly who took the time to care and provide a nurturing environment in the classroom. I consider myself very lucky to now be able to pass on their kindness. Getting to know your students comes with its challenges and misunderstandings but ultimately it is that which they remember the most.

THE THREE CS TO GAINING YOUR STUDENTS’ TRUST By Jan L. Jones

Sharing Good Practice

Class TimeMay 201410

Dealing with the different personalities and backgrounds

of the students can be challenging. The most important thing that the teacher should have is patience, tolerance and being firm and fair at the same time. At the beginning of the year, we should set rules and share the process of setting the rules with the students. This way they think about the consequences of the rules if they are broken. It is wise to not change the rules after you have made them. Being firm with the students is good because you are giving each child respect and his right in the classroom.

My number one tip for classroom management is having a strong

relationship with your students. My students know that when they come to school they are my daughters and are safe with me. In turn, they need to be calm, come prepared to learn but also to have a good time. I set the standard for what I want them to exhibit. When they talk, I give them my full attention, as I expect from them. Our classroom is a safe place for me and for them.

Shaza Shoba

Iman Khalid

PERSPECTIVES

Model and use positive reinforcement frequently to get

the behaviours you want to see.

I believe that the foundation of successful behaviour

management begins with strong classroom structure and daily routines. These provide students with consistency on a day-to-day basis. They will know what is expected of them and this will help minimize off task behaviour.

Litzia Garbutt Alexandra Vera

I think that establishing a strong rapport with students is essential

to good classroom management. Just as employees prefer to work for employers that they respect and athletes play harder for coaches that they admire, students want to learn from teachers that they can connect with. The old adage, ‘they don’t care what you know until they know that you care,’ still rings true. Establishing genuine connections with students fosters trust, which is often the catalyst for compliance. Good student-teacher relationships allow educators to truly facilitate learning as opposed to managing students.

Terrence A. Lorick

What is your number one tip for Behaviour Management in the UAE classroom?

Vox Pop


Teaching science in a new educational setting can be a challenge. Teachers may discover differences in the

students’ levels. There may also be a wide range of ability interests among students. Many students may perceive learning science as a difficult content area due to the requirement for extensive readings, the learning of scientific jargons and concepts.

Many teachers struggle to help students make connections between what they are learning in their science classes and the world around them. As educators, we can overcome these obstacles by integrating some simple tips in a bid to make learning science fun. Below are three research-based strategies that you may find helpful in keeping students engaged and curious about science.

Provide a nurturing learning environmentTeachers should aim to be supportive and patient by constantly using praise and encouragement. Allow students to make mistakes and/or ask questions. This is key to facilitating the learning process. Take time to guide students in a positive direction by modeling the expectations. Praise them with words of kindness to increase confidence in their learning. Research shows that providing a nurturing environment builds teacher-student relationship, which allows students to feel comfortable in the classroom.

“Tag you’re It” Fun with Reading Learning can be made easier by utilizing interesting games. ‘Tag you’re it’ is a great game to use as a class activity. The teacher designates how many sentences the student must read before they randomly choose another student to read. Each student can only be tagged once to read. This is to ensure that all students are given

a chance to participate. If students struggle during reading, the class pledges to assist them. This may further encourage class participation.

“Story –Time”This activity can be done individually or collaboratively. Students read the science content and summarize it using the format of a story. The story may include characters that are named after the vocabulary words from a science reading passage. These can be as colourful and creative as the student wants it to be. One example is the topic of learning Fuses.

Story example – “Once upon a time in the town of darkness in Sharjah there existed a student named brightly. She was a special fuse because she had the 220 watt power needed to turn on the city generator of the town….”

Students may enjoy this activity because it allows them to be creative. They are able to develop characters and create a visual representation which can aid their understanding of the topic. Students can then share their story with the class.

Learning Vocabulary Learning science can be fun through games. The game “Shazam” is an excellent tool for learning vocabulary words through repetition and can be tiered for student levels. Prior to playing the game, students should study all related vocabulary words and their meanings. Game day, the teacher decorates a box and places all the vocabulary words plus the “Shazam” cards inside the box. The goal of the game is for students to correctly match as many vocabulary words with its definition before drawing the card marked “Shazam”. When a student answers correctly, they keep the card. However, if a student draws “Shazam” before a winner is determined, all cards are returned to the box and the game starts over.

These are just a few tips which you can use in your science classroom, feel free to modify them to make them more suitable for your students and the topic you are teaching.

FOUR SIMPLE TIPS TO HELP MAKE TEACHING SCIENCE FUNBy Barika Bettis



FLIPPING CPD IN THE UAEBy Leisa Simapili

Some persons may be confused by the title of this article. Others may be visualising the word flipping in a literal way,

as they do not have positive emotions towards Continuing Professional Development (CPD). Nevertheless, CPD is a reality for all teachers in the UAE, whether you are in the private or public education sector.

The importance of developing oneself professionally cannot be overstated. With the constantly evolving trends in education, teachers more than most are very aware of the need to stay current. However, where we begin to have a problem is in the delivery of the CPD.

Have you ever complained about having to attend training sessions after school, which were mandated by the powers that be? Yes, I am referring to those obligatory training sessions which have been arranged by the school or the council on a topic, which they believe is of relevance to you and one they think will do wonders for your practice.

Teachers are mandated to do these training sessions at the end of the school day when all they really want to do is get out of school or use the time to prepare for the next day’s lessons. Instead, they are made to sit through a theory filled hour, which bears little relevance to what they are doing on a

daily basis. Let me hasten to say that this is not the case in every school and I am sure there are schools in which the sessions are both thought provoking and extremely relevant to the teachers’ daily practice, but in the schools and councils where this is not the case, I would like to suggest that flipping CPD might be the answer.

There has been a lot of talk about the flipped classroom. In a flipped classroom the students first study the topic by themselves, typically using video lessons prepared by the teacher or third parties. During the class time, students apply the knowledge by solving problems and doing practical work.

Flipping CPD could work in a similar manner. Teachers are given access to a series of presentations on various topics through video presentations accompanied by additional resources and reading texts where necessary. They are also given time to implement what they have learned in their classrooms. The training sessions after school then become an active time of discussion on what worked well and what could be done differently. Teachers then get a chance to speak with colleagues, gain ideas, co-plan and strategize. They leave the session with something practical that they can take and immediately implement in their classrooms.

The person who would typically be presenting the content in the training session will now take on the role of facilitator and guide, offering helpful hints and tips to the teachers throughout their discussions. This could result in less after school sessions, giving the teachers the time to plan their work to suit their lifestyle. Additionally, this would also allow them the freedom to choose when to focus on the content of their professional development. The teachers would have to had watched the video and have done the required work in order to participate in the discussion and implementation of the concepts.

There is no perfect system and flipping CPD does have its drawbacks. There is the fact that not all teachers would have done the required work and so discussions could lag. Similarly to a flipped classroom, the videos and materials can be made available for those who need it on the day. There could be problems with technology but these problems would have to be dealt with as they arise.

If we are proposers of active learning and independent learning for the students, then we should begin with the teachers. Let the teachers take ownership of their continuing professional development and flip CPD.



AL NASHA’A AL SALEH SCHOOL: CHARTING A PATH TO SUCCESS!

Al Nasha’a Al Saleh Private School lies tucked away behind the beautiful architectural structure of an

unfinished palace in Al Towayya, in the Garden City of Al Ain. The school was established in 1994. On the outside the school appears to be a quiet oasis. Inside tells the story of an industrious hub filled with students and teachers collaborating on classroom activities, administrative staff bustling about to ensure the smooth running of the school and key staff members providing crucial support.

Helming the school of approximately eight hundred students from KG to Grade 12, Principal, Mr Naser Sallam is tasked with ensuring that his teachers are at the top of their professional game so as to improve the level of education that the students receive.

Making National Identity a priority “Our school is known by the Al Ain community as the school with an American curriculum and that we also focus heavily on Arabic Islamic Studies,” said a dapperly dressed Mr Sallam, “we celebrate national identity and this is what makes us special.”

He was keen to point out that Al Nasha’a Al Saleh Private School copped the first place Speech award at the recently held

National Day Competition at Heritage Village where they competed against other private schools in Al Ain. They also walked away with the award for third place overall in the competition for both private and public schools across all the emirates.

Another notable achievement for the school is the award for Best Chess Player, given to eleven year old, Grade 5 student Khalaf Saeed Al Dhaheri after the recently held Chess Competition organised by Child Protection Officer of Al Nasha’a Al Saleh, Nashwa Hassan, under the auspices of the Abu Dhabi Education Council (ADEC).

Mr Sallam elaborated on the significance of teaching about national identity by explaining that the UAE is a melting pot of various nationalities and that each expatriate student should know and understand aspects of the local culture. It is important that when these students return to their own countries, they remember their stay in the UAE.

Teamwork is optimal“Educators at Al Nasha’a Al Saleh believe in teamwork, they know that for any strategy to work well, it needs all members of the team to work in harmony,” Mr Sallam pointed out. “Teachers collaborate heavily with each other especially on new ideas and strategies. They are encouraged to sit in each other’s classes and share ideas that work across the various subject areas”.

Featured School

Mr Naser Sallam, Principal of Al Nasha’a Al Saleh


Of note is Ms Yasmine Tahhan, who Mr Sallam lauds for her innovativeness in creating impacting lessons for her English classes. He added that through collaborative efforts on the part of the teachers in each department, they are able to learn from each other.

When asked what was special about Al Nasha’a Al Saleh School Mr Sallam said without hesitation, the students.“…Our special thing is our students and the kind of education we are giving to them. This is what keeps the students here in this school. If you go to Grade 12 students, you will find that most of them started here in KG.”

Ideas that workThe school will be going through the inspection process in the upcoming

months. This is a commonality that all schools in the UAE share. Also common is the sense of foreboding that inspection creates among some educators and administrators. Mr Sallam deflects the negative connotations that some associate with inspections by outlawing the use of the word among his staff. He assures them that it is a learning experience that is geared at improving specific areas within the school.

Encourage good practiceWhen faced with the question on how he encourages his teachers, Mr Sallam shared,“We encourage our teachers to work towards their full potential and to actually create something that they are

proud of. If we are to look at Maslow’s hierarchy, most of our employees are at the top level of his pyramid… they want to create something worthwhile. There are a few who are behind but most of them are there. I will never say no to any teacher who wants to do something special, have some initiative or wants to start something new. When it works we can then copy the good practice across the school.”

Future plans for the students include introducing some of the students to alternative activities for Physical Education such as swimming and/or shooting. Additionally, whilst he did not get into details, Mr Sallam stated that there are ambitious improvement plans in the pipeline to propel Al Nasha’a Al Saleh forward into the 21st century.

Nashwa Hassan – Child Protection Officer poses with eleven year old Khalaf Saeed Al Dhaheri, who walked away with first place prize for the Chess Competition organized by Al Nasha’a Al Saleh Private School, which saw over 120 students from 7 different schools participating in the competition that was supervised by ADEC.

Abdulla Rashed Al Shamsi took home the prize for first place in Speech at the recently held Heritage Day Competition.

Featured School


The UAE staffroom may appear to be more casual than what you are accustomed to. However, it is still imperative that you

practise good manners and be ever so careful to dot your “I”s and cross your “T”s. Here are a few dos and don’ts that you should keep in mind.

DOGreet everyone you meet on campus. This is simply good manners and a sign of acknowledgment and respect. It also helps to smile while greeting as this helps to lighten the mood. Be sure to also enquire about your colleagues’ families, especially if you know that they have children. Greetings matter because people matter and everyone is important.

Follow the procedures that are in place. They are there for a reason. If there is something for which you need clarification, follow the chain of protocol to attain this. Try not to rely too much on the experiences of others, because each person’s personality, experience and perspective are different.

Be flexible. This is important especially in instances where a substitute is needed and in

emergency situations. Unscheduled changes are a part of daily working life in the UAE staffroom. If or when possible assist other teachers when they are in need. Remember, there will be situations in which you will also need a helping hand.

Be a team player.Share resources and ideas, especially with educators who are at the same grade level. You might be surprised at all the new things you will learn once you begin to share more.

Offer to share your goodies with other educators/colleagues who are present. This builds camaraderie and will lead to good opportunities for you. You will also be the recipient of some goodies at some point in time too!

DON’TGossipAvoid gossiping at all cost. Friendly

work banter and gossip are two different things. The former usually focuses on ideas, strategies and productive issues. The latter is usually people-centric and tends to put negatives in the spotlight in an unflattering way.

Be insensitive about differing cultural practices. We are working in an international setting, therefore diversity will abound. Ignorance is not a good excuse for being critical about different ideas or practices. Try to learn about your colleagues’ culture(s) so as to not offend them with words or actions. Collegiality and professionalism exists where there is respect for diversity.

Tamper with others’ property. If you want/need something that belongs to a colleague, ask his/her permission to use it.

Overcrowd the space with too many things. Showing respect for other people’s personal space lets them know that you desire the same for yours.

Disturb those around you while using technology.Keep your telephone conversations private. Lower your voice or find some place private to talk. Ensure that headphones are used if you decide to listen to music.

INSIDE THE UAE STAFFROOM: DOS AND DON’TS

Inside The Staffroom


YASMINE TAHHAN

Steps Outside The Box With Differentiation

At first glance, educator Yasmine Tahhan appears to be a somewhat shy though amiable woman. However, once you

engage her, you soon discover her sharp intellect and passion for teaching. Miss Tahhan first caught Teach UAE Magazine’s attention after her impressive presentation on using differentiation in learning at the recently held Teachers’ Idea Forum in Al Ain. The stunning twenty-eight year old is tireless in her drive to ensure that her students are treated to topics that stimulate their interests. She does this by employing a variety of key techniques and strategies within her classroom. With over five years in the classroom, Miss Tahhan continues to challenge herself to think outside the box when developing lessons and engaging in personal professional development. A graduate of the University of Aleppo in Syria, she began her career with KGs 1 and 2, then transitioned to teaching older students, mainly adults at the New Vision Training Center in Al Ain. She currently holds the position of Head of English Department and a teacher of English at Al Nasha’a Al Saleh Private School in Al Ain. We invite you to take a look inside her mind to be inspired by her “hidden powers” that are carefully utilised for ideas that work in the UAE classroom!

Featured Teacher


Why did you choose to become an educator?I became an educator because I always felt like I had something to give and it allows me to inspire others and to share what I know.

Who inspires you most? There are actually a few people who inspire me. The first would be my parents. They are very encouraging and support me in all that I do. They believe in me in a way that nobody can imagine. My mom always says that she thinks that I have hidden powers and I haven’t unleashed all the powers that I have in me yet. Every time that I face some sort of difficulty in my life she encourages me to overcome it. Another person would be my university Linguistics Professor, Mr Zafer Seiba. He encouraged me a lot and invited me to work with him in his center. My other inspirational source is my colleague and mentor Eli Ghazel. He works in TESOL Arabia. I am always looking for new techniques and new ideas. I always consult with him whenever I want to try a new technique in my classroom. He always helps me with research and in any way that he can. He believes too that I have hidden powers. I don’t know why people keep saying that to me (laughing). The last person is my previous coordinator and friend, Miss Jackleen. She is the most amazing example of a leader and we did some amazing projects together.

We worked together for two years. We had a lot of fun, great success and so much appreciation from parents. When I decided to leave the school, my student’s parents didn’t want me to leave...

…But you had to spread your wings…Exactly, yes. I want to gain all the experience that I need as soon as possible. Now I am not married. I am happy, single…happy (laughing). I have all the time to improve myself. If not now, then when?

What are some of the steps that you are taking to advance your career?For the time being I am taking a CICTT (Cambridge International Certificate for Teachers and Trainers) training course with Focal Point Management Consultancy and I am taking TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) as well.

How do you plan for differentiation in your lessons?I depend on three main elements. I set my objectives, as any plan requires. I plan my differentiation on three main points ‘all’, ‘some’ and ‘few’. What all the students can do or achieve, what some of the students can do and what few can do. When you simplify it that way, you don’t think of high or low achievers. It makes it easier for you to develop activities and ideas.

What are some of the strategies that work?I try different kinds of activities. I always try not to repeat the same activity because I know the students get bored. I keep in mind the pressure that they have with other teachers and other subjects especially at their age. Some of the techniques that I use are round-table discussions, ‘think, pair, share’, [and] three-step interview among other activities. I tried holding a debate the other day and they loved it. My strategy is that with each activity I use, I differentiate it so the same skill or lesson can be taught in different ways in order to get the students to be able to apply that knowledge eventually.

Tell us a bit about the Martin Luther King project that you presented at the recently held Teachers’ Idea Forum.At the start of this term, we were studying an article in the literature book, ‘I have a dream’ and I thought it would be interesting for them. I knew that my students like to talk and share their opinions, so I knew that it would be something they would want to do. By chance, one of my colleagues mentioned that Martin Luther King’s Day was in January. It coincided with the day that I had general assembly in the morning. I suggested to the girls that we could do something related to the topic. They came up with the idea to do a Rosa Parks scene in the bus.


Did they dramatise it?Yes. It was fun. One of the earliest challenges we faced was the language of the speech but they enjoyed it a lot. They had handcuffs, guns…plastic ones! (Laughing). They are not allowed to bring real guns to school! So they brought moustaches and set everything for the whole scene. They did the scene with Rosa Parks and a part of Mr King’s speech. They had banners and they were calling for freedom and equality. One of the girls acted like Mr King. She wore a suit and tie. It was very nice. They had one week only to prepare for the morning assembly and a photo gallery of the Washington march in 1963.

What were some of the surprises that the project revealed?They were Grade nine girls and all the girls worked beautifully together even the shy ones. After the assembly, we had the exhibition and invited the principal and all the administrative staff. They had put a lot of work into doing the research, making the posters and banners. They used the laptop to play some of the speech remixes. They were so enthusiastic about it. The principal admired their work. The girls were so proud of themselves. I remember one of the girls coming to me afterwards and saying ‘Miss, we have never done anything like this in our lives before and I was not confident but today you gave me a huge push and I am so happy’. One of the other girls sent me a note saying, ‘thank you, Miss. You are doing a great job.’

That must have made you feel proud…Oh yes, very proud of them. I am proud of what they gave us and how well they spoke. To be honest, I felt proud of myself too because I started teaching because I felt that I had something to give. Teaching is the most noble and rewarding job in the world yet it’s the hardest. So finally, when that happened, I was really proud like I had something to give and its there and I saw it! You put your efforts into planning, preparing the activities and lessons and yet the results of tests frustrate you when they don’t match what they’ve done in the classroom. So when you get such a result of your students, you get a bit disappointed and you feel that all your time has gone in vain. When you see good results, that’s when you forget all your tiredness and exhaustion and you just enjoy the moment.

Your Twitter board is a really innovative idea especially since young people use Twitter all the time. Was it your idea?Yes. I use a Twitter board as a kind of assessment or plenary at the end of our lessons to see if they have any questions. The students are very into technology in general. I check it after they leave each day to see if they have any questions. It helps because even the shy students who don’t talk in class are posting tweets.

What project do you have next?We actually did one yesterday with my Grade 10 girls. We had a reading lesson about alternative medicine. The girls wanted to do a project about that

lesson. They did a dramatisation of it. Dramatisation is interesting to some of the students and you have to know your students well before you choose an activity for them. I have done a small survey of my students to determine whether they were visual, auditory or kinaesthetic learners. So I can plan my activities better. Grade ten girls love to learn through music and drama. My Grade nine girls enjoy discussions and debating. They are really confident and sometimes support their points with research.

What is the best advice that you have received?(laughing) I have a few. My mom always says that I can achieve the impossible. I just need to organise my time and be more focused. My principal, Mr Sallam always encourages me to never be afraid to try new methods. He says that we should go and try it and not to be afraid of a challenge.

Featured Teacher

After The Bell

Travel

Health Finance

Bella

After The BellMay 201420

A MOMENT WITH SUDESH SHANKAR…By Carolyn Lee

I t’s 2:30pm and we are sitting in the offices of Niche Publishers located in the Jumeriah Lake Towers. From our seats on

the fifth floor, we are able to capture the splendid views of the adjacent skyscrapers, the beautiful lake decked with gorgeous palm trees and the wooden benches conveniently placed for the passers-by to rest.

The stunning view is reminiscent of the affluence and influence of the constantly evolving city of Dubai… home to entrepreneur, publisher and astute businessman, Sudesh Shankar.

Cutting a sharp figure in an impeccably tailored navy blue suit, Sudesh fits right into the lifestyle of Dubai. His affable personality lends to a smooth conversation that reveals his keen intellect, as well as, his vast knowledge of the industries in which he operates.

May 2014After The Bell 21

Mr Shankar, how did Niche Publishers come about? I’ve been in this region for over eighteen years of which seventeen years have been spent in publishing. Three years ago, saw some downsizing in most industries after the recession. I was fortunate to have kept my job for two years after the recession but the writing was on the wall. The company I was working with eventually relinquished publishing as a portfolio. This was what prompted me to assess my next career move. After a year of planning, I collaborated with an investor on starting a publishing company, however within a year of our collaboration; I made the decision to take control of my titles. It proved to be a wise decision despite having to invest more money in order to fully own the business. This experience caused minor setbacks during the first year. It

taught me valuable lessons in how to run a business. Despite the split, I still consider my former business partner a fantastic guy and there is no love lost between us.

How many titles do you carry and what are they called?We have three titles, two of which are monthly titles while the third is a quarterly title. Our monthly titles are Premium and The Oath, which look at insurance and law respectively, across Gulf States and wider MENA region. The third title is a contract publication which we were awarded out of a pool of many other publishers by the Qatar Financial Centre. It deals with insurance for the local industry in Doha, Qatar.

Are you involved in any sports or community groups?I am a devoted fan of cricket. I play cricket and if I am not playing it, I am watching it. I am very proud of being an Indian. Naturally, my favourite team is India.

As you know, we are an educators’ magazine, so please share with us who your favourite teacher was and why?The Headmaster of my high school, Linus Cevejo made a lasting impression on me. During a class he once had with us I recall him saying, ‘character is what you are when nobody is looking’. It was such a profound statement which has remained with me all these years and I have proven it to be true. Most people tend to act differently when they think no one is watching.

If you had the option to host a PTA meeting or coach your son’s cricket team, which would you choose?I haven’t missed a single Parent Teachers meeting since my son started school. I take pride in being able to say that because I do get so busy at times. However, my passion is cricket, so I would prefer to coach my son’s cricket team. As a matter of fact, my son is currently being coached professionally in cricket. I am there for most of his sessions and I coach him as well.

Give us three (3) things every entrepreneur should consider before going into business.I would recommend that serious consideration is given to the worst case scenario. What would one do if they did not achieve the anticipated

results? People tend to overlook that. Secondly, know what you are good at and stick with it. The third is to be diligent and focused. Do it [business] because you want to do it.

Do you have a philosophy that you use to guide key business decisions? If yes, what is it?There is always something good in everyone and in even the most difficult relationships. A positive attitude with an open mind is crucial before you make any decision in life.

What do you enjoy most about Dubai?I definitely love being in Dubai. The openness of Dubai has helped it more than its neighbours. Dubai accepts the world. I believe that Dubai is poised to be the Middle Eastern gateway to the world. It offers a wealth of opportunities and much industry.

Where would you say is a wonderful retreat or secret get-away in the UAE?There is one place that has stayed on my mind since I’ve been there, Bab Al Shams Desert Resort. It is very serene and is the perfect place for someone to have some quiet time for reflection.

What was your last luxury purchase? My last luxury purchase was my car. It’s an Audi A5, supercharged with Quattro. I purchased it a year and a half ago.

What gadget can’t you live without?It’s my Blackberry. It is one of the best phones when you travel especially when it comes to affordability and its data capacity.

What is your proudest achievement?It is yet to come. There are quite a few things that I am proud of but everything I have achieved so far is a small percentage of what I really want to achieve.

What’s your favourite restaurant?Mahesh Lunch Home. It’s a seafood speciality restaurant out of Mumbai, India that opened recently here in Dubai. As a child, I hated seafood until I ate there. Now, I am a fully-fledged seafood lover. It’s a seafood lovers delight!

A Moment With


If you’re like me and want to utilise the opportunity to visit as many countries while living in the UAE, one of the places to tick off of your

list is Qatar. Its proximity to the UAE makes it one of those places where you can easily hop on a plane after work for a weekend city break. In fact, it’s so close that it seems the captain makes the announcement for landing preparations shortly after take-off.

The capital, Doha, is a city under construction. From the moment you step off the plane and into the buses that shuttle you to immigration, it is apparent that there is a lot of work in progress to get the country ready for the World Cup. However, the airport is reasonably modern and, despite my initial assumptions, is fairly efficient. Touchdown to getting in my friend’s car only took about 45 minutes. Persons who suffer with respiratory problems should note that, because of the construction all around, the air quality is dire.

Doha is not dissimilar to the UAE. It has the same shiny, new buildings that seem to be going up everywhere across the Arab Gulf. The architecture is impressive in a ‘this is an intentionally iconic structure’ manner. They are built to impress and showcase the wealth

of the country. A quick drive through the city revealed a number of older, low-rise buildings. This juxtaposition of architectural styles was like a symbol of the country’s journey into modernity. I couldn’t help but make comparisons to Al Ain and Abu Dhabi City. The former has a perceived sleepy town image, while the other is a big busy city. It felt like both had been combined in this transitioning city of Doha.

There are modern shopping malls across the city with the usual suspects of brand name offerings. However, head over to the Old Souq (which, funnily enough was recently renovated) for a more Middle Eastern shopping experience. Thankfully, the person who led the revamp of the souq was clever enough to retain some of the features that evoke an old Arabia kind of charm. I enjoyed walking down the narrow passageways and exploring the myriad of stalls and small stores. Another special treat was stumbling upon a section of the souq where artisans were busy crafting products similar to those displayed on their shelves. There was a glass blower making beautiful glass ornaments, a tinsmith designing and cutting out intricate patterns out of copper sheets to make lampshades and candleholders, rug makers

weaving beautiful tapestries, tailors who were sewing traditional garments and many other skilled craftspeople. Needless to say, this was a great place to pick up a few souvenirs.

It seems that Doha is trying to create an image of itself for being somewhat of a cultural hub, where the visual arts is concerned. I had the opportunity of wandering through an exhibit that showcased the work of Damien Hirst. I was able to view many of his famous pieces that had been on display in the Tate Modern in London, but had never seen over my seven years of living in that city. I also visited the Museum of Islamic Art, which is housed in a beautifully designed structure that sits beside the Arabian Sea. The museum houses an impressive collection of works from within the region, as well as from around the world. It is definitely worth an afternoon’s perusal.

Travel tip:Depending on what passport you carry, a tourist visa either needs to be applied for before travel or is issued on arrival. My go to website for all things visa related is www.visahq.com ...Check it out.

Photos courtesy of Richie Chin

QUIXOTIC QATARBy Richie Chin

Travel Featured


Iadmit it! I’ve become somewhat of a burger snob. Before experiencing the Abu Dhabi (AD) food scene, I was content to eat

the popular American meal trinity of burger, fries and a soft drink at any of the standard fast food restaurants. You know the ones I’m talking about. This was until a friend introduced me to the gourmet burger!

Since that first bite, I feel like I’ve been on a quest to find the best burger around town. As such, I’ve come across quite a few in the past couple years. Most have been good and lived up to the reviews (word of mouth or otherwise). A few of them have come with a somewhat hefty price tag that, I believe, is more a reflection of the popularity of the establishment rather than the quality of the sandwich.

The other day I came across a new burger in town. It’s being offered by the recently established Leopold’s of London located in Sun Tower on Reem Island. Their Black Angus Burger is poised to be a strong contender on the

AD gourmet burger scene. The amply portioned beef patty is lightly seasoned allowing the flavour of the meat to take center stage yet not overpower the other elements of the sandwich. For example, the buttery sweetness of the toasted brioche (that acts as the carrier) is not lost on the palate. In fact, it perfectly complements the earthiness of the beef and accentuates the smoked, salty goodness of the veal bacon. Still, the patty is the star of the show and I suggest ordering it ‘medium’ as, in my opinion, this retains the tenderness and juiciness.

Much thought and care is given, not only to each component of the dish, but also to how they are brought together in harmony. The burger is served open-faced with a delicately dressed coleslaw nestled on top of the bun. On the side are thin slivers of pickled cucumbers and small pots of aioli and homemade barbecue sauce. What I like about this semi-deconstructed presentation is that it gives the diner more control of how much (or how little) of the condiments and “fixings” are to

be added. It also prevents having the limp vegetables and soggy bun that often accompany hamburgers that are served fully assembled. Who would have that this humble American staple could be elevated to such culinary heights?

Of course, the meal would not be complete without fries. The ones that come with the burger are thick-cut and fried to golden perfection. A drink has to be ordered separately, but even so, you will spend under AED 100 for the entire meal. That makes this burger a real contender on the AD burger scene as it offers quality food at a good price.

If you’re ever on Reem Island, make your way to the Boutik Mall and try out this new eatery, relax on comfy sofa seats inside or outside (you decide) and sample their absolutely delectable Black Angus Burger!

MORE THAN JUST YOUR AVERAGE BURGERBy Richie Chin

Taste It Share It

Photo courtesy of Leopold’s of London.


Courtyard

Inside the Seville

Cathedral

Courtyard of the Maidens is a royal palace, which was originally a Moorish fort. Once you get there, you are captivated by its rich history. It is considered as the oldest royal palace still in use in Europe. It is located in the Alcázar of Seville.

If you are a history buff, no

trip to Seville is complete

without a visit to the Seville

Cathedral. This gorgeously

designed cathedral was built

to display the city’s wealth

in 1248. Despite its age,

inside still contains elements

of the cathedral’s original

magnificence and grandeur. Need to KnowLanguage: SpanishCurrency: EuroBest time to visit: Winter to springMore Information: Visithttp://www.tourspain.org/sevilla

Seville, Spain boasts rich, vibrant architecture and cobbled streets beautifully lined with shops and tavernas. The eclectic mix of

people and cosmopolitan feel of the city makes it an ideal location for people who want to experience authentic Spanish language and culture in a beautiful setting.

Giralda

This is a view of the

Giralda, which is the bell

tower of the Cathedral of

Seville. It is a must-see

attraction in Seville. It

is said to be one of the

most important symbols

in this medieval city.

Most travellers collect little

mementos from places

that they travel to all over

the world. If you love

collecting souvenirs, you

will find them with ease in

Seville. Souvenirs like the

ones displayed here can

be found on several streets

in small souvenir shops.

SNAPSHOTS OF SEVILLE, SPAIN

Travel Snapshots

It is a splendid getaway location for a week that can easily be filled with scouting out historical landmarks, interacting with the hospitable locals and soaking up the beautiful warm weather… all of this while enjoying some authentic Spanish cuisine made with home grown ingredients in the many restaurants dotted around the city.

Here are some great snapshots from one of our educator’s trip to gorgeous Seville.

Plaza de España

Paella

Plaza de Espana was bui lt in

1928. It is a popu lar fi lming

location, (think Th e Dictator and

Star Wars movie series). Today it

mainly consists of government

bui ldings but remains one

of th e most popu lar tourist

destinations in Se vi lle.

Traditional Spanish Paella made with chicken. Other types include rabbit, vegetables and seafood. A trip to Spain would not be complete without trying this very popular Spanish dish in its native land.

Isla Ma Ica Tourists in the queue awaiting the chance for some wild fun on the Iguazú, a splash ride with a drop of 15 metres and more than 50 km/h at Isla Ma Ica (Magic Island in English). If you are a serious thrill seeker, the Anaconda may just be the ride for you!

Typical Spa

nish

Souvenirs


The desire to accumulate wealth is a natural instinct shared by people across the world. Whether the aim is to ensure

a more secure future for you and your loved ones, or for a specific purpose such as the funding of your children’s education, or even that luxury car or retirement villa you have always dreamed of owning; saving towards a goal is a common feature of modern life.

For most people, the only way to achieve their goals is to save for them and a convenient way of doing this is on a regular basis. Although we all know it is something we must do to achieve our goals, the hardest part can actually be making that start, changing our mind-set from a ‘spender’ to a ‘saver’. With regards to saving regularly, no two months financially are ever the same, so how do we cultivate the habit?

As expatriate professionals in the UAE, the financial benefits of living offshore can help with this transition to financial stability. Today’s global environment demands a savings vehicle which is tax efficient and capable of maximising returns, whilst also allowing the widest

possible flexibility so that, as your circumstances or objectives change, your investments are free to change with you.

When selecting a financial product, a bespoke investment plan can be made on your behalf and tailored to your needs. When it comes to recommending a jurisdiction, the preferred locations are the Channel Islands (Isle of Man, Jersey, Guernsey). Why is this? There are two main reasons. Firstly, for tax efficiency, any investments held in these jurisdictions can remain to grow free of taxation, even if you return to a taxable jurisdiction. Contributions can still be made for the entirety of the plan, from wherever you are in the world. Secondly, security is key. We all work hard for our money, right? So protecting our hard earned savings is vital. The channel islands offer protection like no other jurisdiction in the world, where most worldwide jurisdictions would insure customers against a set figure (eg, UK banks £85,000) the Channel Islands have in place ‘government backed investor protection’, this means all life assurance companies would insure protection of up to 90% of entire holdings including growth.

How is growth achieved? In order to gain ‘real returns’ (returns above inflation, which is currently around 3% worldwide) investing into world class funds proves most popular. What is a fund? A fund pools together money from many individuals. A designated fund manager then uses the pooled monies to invest into a broad range of assets. The aim is to help you grow your money and if required, provide you with a regular income. By collating your investment into a fund with thousands of other investors you have access to investment opportunities that may not be available to individual investors.

Despite the above advice it is important to bear in mind that every individual is different and advice needs to be tailored to those individual needs. For example, although our savings objectives may be similar, it is important to take account of areas such as currency choice, attitude to risk and ultimately the jurisdiction in which each individual intends to retire. Once these areas are explored properly the appropriate vehicle can be chosen.

For additional information, contact Aaron Crotty at: [email protected]

DOING IT RIGHT: MULTICURRENCY INTERNATIONAL SAVINGS PLANS

By Aaron Crotty

Finance


Recently a series of funny memes titled “What People Think ____________ s (fill in the blank with a job title) Do”

made the social media rounds. The meme for educators “What People Think Teachers Do” went like this: What My Friends Think I Do was followed by a picture of a cowboy hat wearing ukulele player surrounded by happily singing children. What Society Thinks I Do was followed by a margarita drinking sun bather lying in a hammock on a palm lined beach surrounded by sparkling blue water. What My Students Think I Do was followed by a blanket covered person dozing contentedly beneath a desk. What I Think I Do was followed by a tie wearing professor engaged in meaningful dialogue with his raptly engaged students and finally What I Really Do was followed by a frustrated person sitting at a paper covered desk with his head in his hands.

It is safe to say that a majority of educators experience the last scenario more often than they would like. The inherent stressors of this career are

painfully obvious to hard working educators while perhaps not as noticeable to those outside the field. Educators often feel overwhelmed, dejected and hassled. These emotions can lead to physical symptoms like head or stomach aches, muscle tension and sleep problems while also negatively impacting one’s mood and making one feel depressed, angry, anxious and/or demoralized.

If any of these physical or emotional symptoms describe you, it is necessary to address the symptoms immediately so that they do not worsen. Usually, the first thing you want to do is prevent a situation from arising in the first place but the nature of education, especially when teaching abroad in an environment that may be very different from what you are accustomed to, is that there may be several factors that are beyond your control. Therefore, take charge of what you can…yourself.

An immediate stress reduction technique is called diaphragmatic breathing. Inhale deeply through your nose and breathe

out slowly through your mouth. Do this a few times while mentally telling yourself positive comments like “I am peaceful” or something similar. Deep breathing counteracts the stress response of rapid, shallow breathing that can lead to anxiety.

Another effective technique that you can use to calm down while in the middle of a stressful situation is called progressive muscle relaxation. This is done by clenching and unclenching various muscle groups. If you are in the classroom during a stressful episode it is easiest to practice this technique using your hands. Discreetly clench your fists for several seconds, release, and then shake them out. Do this a few times until you begin to feel yourself relax.

Laughter is excellent medicine. Do not forget to cultivate your sense of humour and laugh as much as possible.

Taking control of your responses to a stressful situation is the best way to retain your power, stay physically and mentally healthy and deepen your enjoyment of your work.

REGAIN CONTROL…TAKE THE POWER BACK By Aisha Shakti Hakim

Health


It’s not easy juggling a full load of classes while always looking your best. It may seem challenging at first but it is definitely possible.

Setting up a beauty routine is part of a healthy self-care plan that supports a demanding, busy lifestyle. A fulltime job is no excuse to let yourself go. With some preparation and simple, practical products, you can feel confident inside and outside of the classroom in as little as 10 minutes.

Below are some quick makeup tips you can apply anytime:

LipstickThis is your fix-it-all weapon. You don’t need to grab the whole makeup case or the entire Sephora lipstick palette.

Spend your time finding an everyday lipstick colour that is low maintenance, subtle and provides tons of moisture. Look for top quality lipstick, like Revlon or MAC, that lasts for hours, without constant reapplication. Shades of warm browns and reds, even nudes give you a fresh pop of colour and look good on most skin tones.

FoundationApply foundation in the morning, only once for the day. It is best to

use a sheer, clean foundation or one with a soft tint like Bobbi Brown Tinted Moisturizer. Keep this very low maintenance. The last thing you need is to worry about touching up your foundation in between classes. Set it and forget it.

Cheek stainThis is much easier to apply than foundation. The right kind lets you skip foundation altogether. Cheek stains give your cheekbones a nice, light flush of colour and leaves a sun-kissed, healthy look. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different shades until you find one that you love. A dab on each cheek in the morning is all it takes. Try Tarte; it is available online.

MascaraAre you meeting a friend for coffee after work or just want to feel confident or sassy again? A few swipes of mascara will open your eyes and bring them back to life. Apply mascara mid-day or afternoon than first thing in the morning. If you apply it too early, you may end up with raccoon eyes before lunch from rubbing and moisture. Choose durable, waterproof mascara. Any major

brand will do but look for thickening, lengthening and volumising options.

Lip-glossDon’t leave home without it. If you don’t have time for even 10 minutes, lip-gloss saves the day. Avoid clumpy, syrupy lip-gloss that sticks on instead of glides. Go for one that lasts with a hint of colour, moisturising benefits and long-staying power. On bad days, glossy lips make it look like you pulled yourself together effortlessly.

Makeup bagKeep a small, separate makeup bag for work with minimal items like lipstick and mascara. That way you don’t have to find the lipstick you wore to the Friday brunch. Your “work lipstick” will be in your bag waiting for you in the morning. This bag will always have the same items, everyday and save you tons of time and frustration.

Good self-care starts with good habits. Find your favourite products, buy them in bulk and use them again and again. You don’t have to invest in a professional makeover or spend hundreds on the latest makeup trends. True beauty is within but sometimes a look in the mirror can make us feel good all by itself.

6 QUICK MAKE-UP TIPS FOR THE BUSY EDUCATORBy Maryann Reid

Bella


The Exceptional Porsche Cayenne Platinum Edition

Designer Desires

Sometimes all you need to make you feel great is a bit of luxury. In this edition of Designer Desires, we would like to showcase a vehicle that could transform your commute to and from school from ordinary to ultra-luxurious… Introducing the Porsche Cayenne Platinum Edition.

As educators, we are used to taking something ordinary and making it extraordinary. This is what Porsche has done with the 2014 Porsche Cayenne Platinum Edition vehicle. They have taken a vehicle that is already quite exceptional and enhanced it by giving it a more unique style and character, thereby making it even more exclusive.The Porsche Cayenne Platinum Edition has many smart features that educator’s will love. Visually it commands attention with its sleek exterior that oozes sophistication and class. Of note is that when it comes to performance, this ride comes with high levels of specific output and torque of the naturally aspirated 3.6-litre V6 petrol engine. It is capable of

accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 7.8 seconds. Driving up to school in one of these will surely make for a good start to any educator’s day.Naturally, when one wants to purchase a vehicle as luxurious as this, a laundry list of technical specifications is vital. We suggest that you check out the Porsche website, www.porsche.com to access additional information inclusive of how to customize your Porsche to suit your personal taste.

This particular vehicle holds our interest specifically because it is more affordable than the Porsche Cayenne V6 and offers a whole lot more value for money. It comes with distinguishable “Platinum Silver Metallic” accents and 19-inch Cayenne Design II wheels. Standard equipment includes parking sensors, a navigation system, heated front seats, a power sunroof, a Bose surround system and Porsche’s Power Steering Plus feature, which assists with low-speed steering. The Cayenne Platinum also adds bi-xenon headlights.

Porsche Cayenne Platinum Edition is an ideal vehicle for fitting a small or medium sized family. It is perfect for both men and women who have a desire for a taste of one of the finer vehicles on the road today. Some educators will be happy with its’ Park Assist feature, as it makes a significant contribution to overall safety by alerting the driver to any obstacles at the front or rear of the car. The optional reversing camera is equally useful. It facilitates precise reverse parking and manoeuvring and also assists with hitching a trailer.

There is so much more detail that could be stated about this beauty but it is better if you check it out for yourselves. If you are looking for a luxurious vehicle that will get heads turning and tongues wagging in appreciation…look no further than the Porsche Cayenne Platinum Edition. It is a bit of luxury that will remind you of just one of the reasons for you working as smart and as hard as you do.

Photos courtesy of porshe.com

29May 2014After The Bell

Educators make up a considerable number of the expats who are instrumental to the educational reform in

the UAE. Know Your UAE provides insight into aspects of Arabic culture, traditions and places of historical value that educators may find interesting.

In our spotlight, in this issue, is the Sheikh Zayed Palace Museum in Al Ain.

1. The palace of the late Sheikh Zayed was built in 1937. He lived there with his family until 1966. He decreed that the palace and private residential areas be preserved as an honest reflection of his county’s culture for all to experience. It was opened to the public in 2001.

2. Prosopis Cineraria (the botanical name for the palm tree) is the national tree of the UAE. Throughout the palace museum various items can be seen that were made from the palm tree such as ropes, the ceiling structure, fans and prayer mats among other items.

3. Sheikh Zayed was proud to meet guests and VIPs in his grand court tent where he could demonstrate Arabian hospitality and generosity. A gorgeous replica of the grand court tent is located in the grounds of the palace and represents an iconic link with Bedouin life. The tent was made using handmade material which came from Iran. Goat’s skin was used to make the ropes that adorn the poles. Mothers (local women) made the ropes.

4. The property houses a schoolroom in which the royal children received lessons from private tutors. The Quran room is just outside the schoolroom. This is where the family received their lessons in Islamic Studies.. The room still has an original copy of the Quran on display.

5. The inner courtyard contains the main kitchen and storeroom, adjacent to which is the palace’s vital water supply…the well. The well is about fifteen metres (15m) deep. It is equipped with a rope made from palm tree leaves and a water sack made from animal

leather. To cool the water, clay jars were hung from tree branches. 6. Sheikha Fatima had three (3) sitting rooms in which she would entertain her guests. Upstairs of the main building, houses the bedrooms of the royal children.

7. Sheikh Zayed’s first car was a Land Rover. A Land Rover similar to the one he drove into the desert to visit with the Bedouin communities is on display in the courtyard.

Once you step inside the walls of Sheikh Zayed Palace Museum in Al Ain you leave behind the hustle and bustle of the traffic outside. Tour guides are available upon request. If you do not wish to have a tour guide, you are welcome to browse at your own pace. Keep in mind that there are special guidelines in place to protect the items on display. If you haven’t been yet, grab a camera and some friends and make your way to Al Mutawaa in Al Ain or call 03-751-7755 for additional information.

SHEIKH ZAYED PALACE MUSEUM IN AL AIN

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It is said that the month of May was historically named after the Greek Goddess Maia. May is the fifth month of the year in both the

Julian and Gregorian calendars. It is one of seven months that has thirty-one days.

For educators, the month of May signifies a mid-way into the last semester of the school year. This is usually a time when focus is given to teacher evaluations. As such, many educators use this time to sharpen up on teaching methodologies and document all they have achieved since the start of the school year.

May you reflect on your achievements as we share with you some fascinating facts about the wonderful month of May.

• The month of May has many celebratory and important events, including; Haitian Heritage Month, Mental Awareness Month, Skin Cancer Awareness Month,

South Asian Heritage Month, Asian Pacific American Heritage Month, Pet cancer Month, National Brain Tumour Awareness Month, Asthma Awareness Month and Celiac Awareness Month, among others.

• May’s birthstone is the emerald, which is emblematic of love and success.

• In the Catholic Church, the month of May is dedicated to, and honours the Blessed Virgin Mary. May 1 is marked as the feast of St. Joseph the worker in the Catholic Church.

• In New Zealand, the month of May is known as “Month of Music”.

• May 1 is May Day, which is a significant date in many countries. It is also celebrated as Labour Day in some countries.

• In Hawaii, May 1 is Lei Day where it is customary to wear a lei throughout the day.

• On the night before May 1, there is an old custom to plant a “Maypole” to honour someone.

• May 5 is Children’s Day in Japan and Korea.

• May 10 is Mothers Day in Mexico, Guatemala and El Salvador.

• Mothers Day is celebrated on the second Sunday in May in the United States and many other countries.

• May 12 is International Nurses Day.

• The last Sunday in May is Mothers Day in Algeria, Dominican Republic, France, Tunisia, Haiti, Morocco and Sweden. It is also Children’s Day in Hungary.

photos courtesy of wikipedia

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