David Schwartz is a very mathematically and scientifically inclined author. He takes complicated mathematical facts and turns them into a fascinating story making the information easy to understand.  He also takes information that he’s always wondered about–even since from childhood–and turns it into something understandable for his readers.  For example in his very famous book, How Much is a Million? the reader receives an accurate and visual explanation of exactly what a million looks like.  Being able to visualize mathematical concepts helps to understand the facts.

Math facts are not Mr. Schwartz’ only specialty. He also writes interesting books about science.  For example his two books If Dogs were Dinasours and If You Hopped Like a Frog were inspired by scientific questions the author had as a kid.–and most will be able to relate.  These two books pose some very logical explanations to “what if” queries.

At the International School of Beijing, we will be very lucky on March 19th.  Mr. David Schwartz is coming to our school! He will present his assemblies to grades kindergarten through fifth all day long.  This author will also be available after school from 3:30-4:30 to sign his books–which will be for sale all day on March 19th by a local distributor.  David Schwartz will definitely be one author we never forget!

Poetry Alive! is a group that brings poems to life for children.  The organization is comprised of many skilled orators who then travel to schools and share a joy of poetry.  Through engaging lessons, the Poetry Alive! cast strive to increase student literacy and offer thoughtful approaches for teaching poetry.

The International School of Beijing will be lucky to have two members visit their school from March 1-19.  Each school, the elementary, middle, and high school, will be able to benefit from assemblies and follow-up sessions.  Parents and teachers too will receive an opportunity to experience sessions by the two visitors.

Chinese New Year has possibly been celebrated for more than 4000 year–if you use the Chinese calendar which would be in the year 4700. The timing of this festival is determined from the Chinese lunar calendar. Chinese New Year usually falls between January 21st and February 19th because it occurs after the second new moon after the winter solstice.

This new year festival is very important and popular among the Chinese. It’s a time to clear away any bad luck of the previous year and make amends for the new year by paying off any debts. The new year offers a fresh, clean slate for the upcoming year. Therefore much visiting amongst family and friends occurs during this time. Delicious food and plenty of fireworks are shared throughout the entire week.

The Chinese Zodiac also plays a part in the Chinese New Year. At the new year, the next zodiac animal becomes the animal of that year. This Chinese New Year celebrates the Year of the Tiger.