Volume 6 | Issue 9 December 2015 | Rabi Al-Awwal 1437 al-qalamTermly Newsletter Award-Winning Author Nai’ma B. Robert Visits the School Read about her visit

Featuring: Qur’an Celebration Day Inter-Faith Week Hifdh Graduation Anti-Bullying Week Citizenship at AAGS More Great Articles: Friendship & much more... Tajweed: Makharij Etiquettes of Studying Asia Bint Muzahim History of the Arabic Language

Azhar Academy School 235a Romford Road, Forest Gate, London, E7 9HL T: 020 8553 8384 www.aags.org.uk al-qalam al-qalam Head Teacher’s Message - Mrs R.Adam “In the Name of Allah , the Most Bene�icent, the The teaching of ‘British values’ is important to Most Merciful. All the praises and thanks be to us. These values include democracy, rule of law, Allah , the Lord of the 'Alamin (mankind, jinns individual liberty and mutual respect along and all that exists). The Most Bene�icent, the with tolerance for those of different faiths and Most Merciful. The Only Owner of the Day of beliefs. At AAGS, we have been teaching such Recompense (i.e. the Day of Resurrection) You values to all our students over the many years. (Alone) we worship, and You (Alone) we ask for As a school with a Muslim ethos, each of these help. Guide us to the Straight Way. The Way of values are not just ‘British’, but principles that those on whom You have bestowed Your Grace, Islam teaches. We ask our students to oppose not (the way) of those who earned Your Anger, all forms of discrimination and prejudice – not nor of those who went astray. (The Qur'an- just because it’s the British thing to do, but Surah Al-Fatihah)” because it’s the right thing to do. We encourage our students to play a full and positive role in Alhamdulillah, I am pleased to share with you modern Britain. our school newsletter, Al Qalam for the Autumn Term 2015. You will have an opportunity to read about activities and events that students in Citizenship – learning about democracy, at Azhar Academy Girls School have been humanAll our studentsrights and complete public ainstitutions GCSE quali�ication such as involved in. parliament and courts of justice. In Religious Studies, students not only learn about the This autumn term was quite interesting and beauty of mainstream Islamic teaching – with certainly very busy; however, as always we its emphasis on peace, love for others and created many opportunities for our students to self-discipline, but also the tenets of other make their learning even more exciting. A faiths and cultures. In History, our students special visit from the MET Police was arranged learn about the different ways that rulers are at which they addressed students about being elected and countries are governed and about safe. TFL also visited the school and promoted the major events that have shaped our modern the importance of keeping safe when using world. In English lessons, our students are public transport . Our London Landmark exposed to literature by a range of authors competition which was held earlier this term from literary masterpieces of Shakespeare and was won by Year 10 A. MashaAllaah they Dickens. created an interactive display on the London Eye. They will now be rewarded with a visit to Our weekly Tarbiyyah sessions ensure that we this amazing landmark later this year. prepare our students for their future lives as

Students at AAGS are always keen to help informed and positive choices about their others as was clearly noted when the school relationships,con�ident and careers independent and leisure. women, The making Ilm to council helped raise money by hosting a coffee Amal campaign encourages our students to morning in aid of Macmillan Cancer Research. raise funds for charities, visit old age homes, The school council, together with everyone help the homeless, raise money for deserving from the school, also helped raise money for charities, amongst other activities. This gives them the opportunity to support and be opportunities for our students to understand the plightCumbria of the �loods. less fortunate I feel these and are help important them in some way. con�ident community representatives.

Page 1 al-qalam

Azhar Academy over 100 years ago

Working with the 3 faiths forum ensures that whilst being able to practise their faith in a way our students have an opportunity to integrate that they wish to do so. Students are able to with different religious faith groups. Visits to wear a uniform which is consistent with their places of worship of different faiths allow our faith, eat a meal prepared in a manner that is students to respect and learn about different sensitive to their beliefs and able to pray. faiths. We are also part of the London Curriculum which is an exciting programme In doing so, we want our students to appreciate that brings the new national curriculum to life, that there is no reason why they, or anyone inspired by London’s people, places and else, cannot be both an exemplary British heritage. Students participated in the London citizen as well as a pious and faithful believer. Quiz team and performed exceptionally well to This is a lesson that all of us- parents, school overall as the highest achieving school in the teachers, members of the community, should borough,earn a place MashaAllaah. in the second round and �inished be teaching to each young person in the country, regardless of the faith they may have, Weekly form time lessons, school trips, the heritage with which they were born in and external speaker visits and weekly assemblies the type of school in which they are educated. are among the many ways in which we promote and share good values at AAGS. Staff at AAGS will continue to work tirelessly to

This year our students will take part in the equipped with the best of skills and LondonMayor’s volunteering programme for ensure each student ful�ils her potential and is schools. The programme will help to build the to not only lead her not only to great life next generation of volunteers by inspiring and chancesquali�ications. and We opportunities, want each girl’s but time also at AAGS to enabling young people to give back to their becoming an active, exemplary citizen who will local community by taking part in youth-led make a positive contribution to the local, social action projects. It will also inspire young national and global community that she will people to take action on whatever local need serve. they feel passionate about, including food poverty, waste, homelessness, connecting I look forward to your ongoing support in generations, friendship and bullying as well as ensuring that we help our students to achieve gardening. the best education to prepare them for the journey ahead! All of these and so many more experiences expose our students to ‘British values’ and Mrs Rookshana Adam norms in a setting that is sensitive to their faith Headteacher and culture. As a faith school, we ensure that our students are able to learn ‘British values’...

Page 2 al-qalam

Reflections of a Year 11 Pupil What are my thoughts on the future? Unlike goodbye is slowly approaching. In my last year many who can’t wait to go to college, I’d have to After �ive years at Azhar, the time to say say I’m less enthusiastic. If I am honest with myself, although I’m excited to go out into the opportunitieshere, I have �inally I’ve been understood given how here much and world, I am scared. The future stretches out appreciateAzhar means just to how me. Imuch can �inally Azhar recognise has done thefor me. From the little year 7 girls who walked opportunities and dreams and hardships. I’m through the school gates four years ago, to the afraidbefore ofme making like a longthat windingjourney onroad, my �illed own. with But young ladies in my year group, Azhar has Azhar taught me to give my all into whatever moulded us into the people we are now. These I’m doing and that they will always be there to years have really taught me a lot about myself help. So that’s what I will do. I will walk out the and I’ve learnt to appreciate how lucky I am to school gates when it’s time to leave and I’ll do be here. my best. I won’t give up and I’ll make them proud. After all, she who is afraid of taking to In a few months, I will be leaving behind many people who have played a huge role in my life. am determined to get there! The teachers and friends I have made will have �irst step will never reach the �inish line. And I to stay behind as I walk out of the school gates Habibah Khanom, Year 11A into the larger world. Soon, I will only be able to visit those happy times and occasions in my memories. Soon I will have to use everything Azhar has thought me in the new battles that I will face without the guidance of teachers or cherished friends. I will be making my own way into the world, having to do things for myself.

But this is what Azhar taught me, to become part. It’s time to make use of what I’ve learnt here.independent and con�ident and to play my

Page 3 al-qalam

Theth BBC Studio Experience On 26

What are my thoughts on the future? Unlike BBC studios. November, The goal �ive of girls this experiencefrom Year 9 was were to Trip to Victoria & Albert Museum many who can’t wait to go to college, I’d have to socialiseselected towith accompany students of Apa other Sa�iya schools to visit as thewe Year 9 visited the Victoria and Albert Museum say I’m less enthusiastic. If I am honest with were participating in the ‘BBC school report’ also known as the V&A Museum; which is the myself, although I’m excited to go out into the representing Azhar. worlds’ largest museum of decorative arts and world, I am scared. The future stretches out Although the journey was long and tiring, our museum design. When we �irst stepped into the opportunities and dreams and hardships. I’m minds were still active and bubbling with many we entered afraidbefore ofme making like a longthat windingjourney onroad, my �illed own. with But a large hall Azhar taught me to give my all into whatever expecting to create our ideas and announce our with many I’m doing and that they will always be there to reportersideas for ourtheme, school except report. it turned At �irst out we to were be statues and help. So that’s what I will do. I will walk out the more interesting and a much more fun paintings, school gates when it’s time to leave and I’ll do experience. We had the perfect opportunity to wherever my best. I won’t give up and I’ll make them work and talk to students of our age from other we turned proud. After all, she who is afraid of taking to schools as well as create our own accounts on there were passages leading into other the ‘Mixital website’, constructed for the young sections of the exhibition. We were greeted by am determined to get there! reporters of the BBC. We were put into groups paintings, decors and antiques that were all �irst step will never reach the �inish line. And I and were given tasks to complete together unique and remembered throughout our visit; Habibah Khanom, Year 11A which were challenging but fun. Some of us one of my personal favourites was the stained managed to create our own game, some of us glass windows and the painting that stretched made our own programme scenes whilst throughout an entire hallway, wall and the others managed to make a robot dance. The ceiling. entire experience was memorable and the highlight of the term. Despite the ups and downs, we all enjoyed ourselves and got the passed through that held a vast variety of art chance to work with others too. I would work.There It was had onepaintings speci�ic hung room over weevery constantly wall and many artefacts in the glass cabinets to ensure other students as it is a time to release your they are untouched. Many of us wandered the creativity!de�initely recommend this opportunity for halls discovering countless rooms and facts. Overall the trip gave us an opportunity to visit a Naimah Hussain, Year 9A world renowned museum. Mariyah Ahmed, Year 9A

Page 4 al-qalam

Year 9 visited the Victoria and Albert Museum also known as the V&A Museum; which is the worlds’ largest museum of decorative arts and museum wedesign. entered When we �irst stepped into the Growth Mind-Set a large hall What is growth mind-set and why is it so The tortoise, however was slow, he knew he with many important? A mind-set is ‘the established set of was but he kept on trying and won the race. statues and attitude held by someone.’ Someone with a paintings, growth mind-set does not think you were born This is why the growth mind-set is better than wherever with intelligence, but works hard to learn, we turned someone who does not give up or get things to expand your brain, and you are less there were passages leading into other frustratedthe �ixed, youand are always open try to yourtry new best. and Yes, better you sections of the exhibition. We were greeted by may not get As or A* but you will get there paintings, decors and antiques that were all frustrated as easily as �ixed mind-sets do. because a growth mind-set never gives up. I am unique and remembered throughout our visit; the growth mind-set is through the story of the pretty sure you have heard of batman, right? one of my personal favourites was the stained tortoiseThe way and we canthe explainhare. The the tortoise �ixed mind-set represents and glass windows and the painting that stretched the growth mind-set and the hare represents Bruce? So we learn to pick ourselves back up.” throughout an entire hallway, wall and the (BatmanSo, you might Begins.) know Batman this quote was “Why not born do we with fall ceiling. moment we believe that success is determined powers but he trained ALOT to succeed. Do not bythe an �ixed... ingrained why? level Josh of Waitskin ability, we once will said be brittle “The let failure be an ending, let it be a beginning. in the face of adversity” This is trying to say that passed through that held a vast variety of art Jannatul Mawa Islam, Year 8S There was one speci�ic room we constantly work. It had paintings hung over every wall and established, we tend to break down in an many artefacts in the glass cabinets to ensure once we believe that success is �ixed or they are untouched. Many of us wandered the happened to the hare. halls discovering countless rooms and facts. unpleasant or dif�icult situation. This is what Overall the trip gave us an opportunity to visit a world renowned museum.

Page 5 al-qalam

On 16th November to the 21st November 2015, Azhar academy took part in ABW 2015.

It was a fun packed week full of activities centred around making a noise about anti-bullying. Students learnt a lot and the student council took lead with a bake sale which raised £125.87.

Students also gave out �lowers to the general public.

This was to signify the unity we all share against bullying. Students enjoyed themselves and were able to implement the activities they participated in. other classes visited the police station and neighbouring schools. Year 9 took part in the local community �lower distributing – visiting ‘The Gate Library ’ and

Page 6 al-qalam

Students decorated the school with banners and slogans showing their support for anti-bullying.

month and thanked us by gifting us with deliciousA �lower cookiesrecipient to visited show herus earlier this appreciation and positive attitude towards our cause.

Another activity - Wear Something Blue - was a huge hit with our younger students and teachers.

A few of our dedicated Year 10 students - Arooj, Anisa & Sami created a speech bubble to voice the opinions of our school.

Alhamdulillah, the whole week was a great success and we hope that it only gets better in the future!

School Council

Page 7 al-qalam

Year 9 Trip to London Zoo

On 13th October 2015 Year 9 went on an We also spotted many caterpillars and cocoons interesting and exciting science trip to London all over the place and saw a plant whose leaves Zoo. paradise was a very interesting part of the trip. The Year 9's saw many different animals at the closed up after it was touched. The butter�ly Zoo, such as: tigers, who were asleep most of The Year 9’s also visited the Reptile House the time; zebras and horses, even hybrid which was full of snakes, crocodiles, lizards, offspring of both; cute meerkats that peered at turtles and many more reptilian animals. There you with their beady little eyes; African wild was a green anaconda, which is a very deadly dogs; giraffes, who annoyingly didn't dare to and poisonous snake and also cute baby venture anywhere near and also a crocodiles and even cuter baby turtles. hippopotamus who gave off a horrible smell. There was also an aquarium at the Zoo where A very exciting part of the trip was the nightlife area where they saw bats who were feeding off looked suspiciously a lot like Nemo and Dori. pieces of juicy watermelon and rats that were they saw many piranhas and two �ish that as big as cats. We visited the Rainforest area laboratory where they tested different things where they met monkeys with facial hair. aboutThere the were environments also loads that of they star�ish are used in the to and also their breeding. We also had a workshop/lesson which was Overall, the trip was very enjoyable and we learned about how to classify different everyone learnt a lot. speciesabout the in topic the classi�ication.animal kingdom In the and workshop how to recognise different characteristics of animals. Maryam Raza, Year 9G

This lesson was very bene�icial and interesting. which was an extremely hot and humid room We also visited a place called Butter�ly Paradise where the butter�lies were. there, including a species that only lived up to a week,There andwere were many also different only active species at night. of butter�ly

Page 8 al-qalam

We also spotted many caterpillars and cocoons all over the place and saw a plant whose leaves paradise was a very interesting part of the trip. closed up after it was touched. The butter�ly The Year 9’s also visited the Reptile House which was full of snakes, crocodiles, lizards, turtles and many more reptilian animals. There was a green anaconda, which is a very deadly and poisonous snake and also cute baby @ crocodiles and even cuter baby turtles.

There was also an aquarium at the Zoo where looked suspiciously a lot like Nemo and Dori. they saw many piranhas and two �ish that laboratory where they tested different things aboutThere the were environments also loads that of they star�ish are used in the to and also their breeding.

Overall, the trip was very enjoyable and everyone learnt a lot.

Maryam Raza, Year 9G

Page 9 al-qalam

with him when he remembers Me. If he remembers“I am to my servantMe in his as heart, he expects I remember of Me, I him am to Myself, and if he remembers Me in assembly, I mention him in an assembly better that his, and if he draws nearer to Me a hand’s span, I draw nearer to him an arm’s length, and if he draws nearer to Me an arm’s length, I draw nearer to him a fathom length, and if he comes to me walking, I rush to him at [great] speed”

- [Bukhari and Muslim]

al-qalam

with him when he remembers Me. If he remembers“I am to my servantMe in his as heart, he expects I remember of Me, I him am to Myself, and if he remembers Me in assembly, I mention him in an assembly Na’ima B. Robert Visit better that his, and if he draws nearer to Me a Robert was visiting our school. I've always wantedI was excited to see when her, especially I �irst heard after that I read Na'ima one ofB. hand’s span, I draw nearer to him an arm’s her books "From Somalia with love". length, and if he draws nearer to Me an arm’s The book inspired me a lot. It taught me to love other cultures and to respect them. The book length, I draw nearer to him a fathom length, also teaches you to make decisions that will help you and your surroundings and not to be and if he comes to me walking, I rush to him Thein�luenced day sheby your came friends was orvery other exciting relatives. yet at [great] speed” anxious; I didn't know what to expect, what Poem - ‘ The Art of a Salam’ were we going to do there? Was it going to be Everyday starting with bismillah fun or boring spending 1 or 2 hours in the hall? I pray my fajr see the amazing sunrise All my worries dissipated when I met Naima I make duaa and say salaam… Robert. Meeting her was the best experience To you my friend ever. She taught us values of English literature, To you my brothers and sisters writing, and the purpose of doing drama To you my lovely mother, to you my lovely activities. She also taught us how drama father activities can help students understand the To you, to you, to you, to the whole Muslim scene/chapter better. Ummah Say salaam and give them a smile, show how Overall meeting Na'ima B. Robert was fun and much you care exciting as I learned a lot of things about her Since for every salaam, your rewards are - [Bukhari and Muslim] and English. I just wished we had a bit more stacking up high time to spend with her. To you, to you, to you Samiha Khan, Year 8G Humaira Uddin, Year 7A

Page 11

al-qalam

Visit to St.Paul’s Cathedral Last month, students from Year 8 were given which had been used to decorate the cathedral. the opportunity to visit St Paul’s Cathedral We were also shown special parts of the cathe- in conjunction with the work they have been dral which are not usually open to the general doing in RE. As well as being taken on a public, some only reserved for royalty! guided tour around the cathedral, they were Better yet, try to think about the three subjects able to ask questions from one of the I’m glad we got to visit the cathedral and found in terms of cars. In this scenario, ICT would be dedicated cathedral staff. it to be a really great experience.” the equivalent of driving a car, whilst IT and Computer Science would be more comparable Isha Hussain, Year 8G to designing and building a car. calm and soothing trip, with the cathedral & Zainab Gani, Year 10G looking“I enjoyed very my impressive visit to the both cathedral; from the it outside was a Momataj Begum and on the inside. Computer Science Walking in the cathedral, we noticed the walls which had illustrations of stories on them from the bible all told through colourful pictures. As we were led around the cathedral, our tour guide asked us questions about the ‘Easter story’, and it felt great to be able to answer all of her questions as we had been learning about it in school.

We got the chance to study the dome of the cathedral, using binoculars, and we got to see close up the many tiny million pieces of gold... Above: View of the Cathedral's interior frescoes

Page 12 al-qalam

Tim Peake’s Launch Live which had been used to decorate the cathedral. We were also shown special parts of the cathe- at the Science Museum dral which are not usually open to the general On Tuesday, 15th December the Year 8s left Lastly, a science show took place in the public, some only reserved for royalty! Azhar Academy Girls’ School and headed for the basement, where we learnt about the laws of Science Museum. We took the bus to Stratford Isaac Newton. We took part in three informative I’m glad we got to visit the cathedral and found Station, took a train to Mile End and then experiments, which involved big bangs! it to be a really great experience.” journeyed on a tube to Westminster. The journey was exhausting but we were pumped At 2.15pm, we prayed our Asr salah and made Isha Hussain, Year 8G up with excitement! our journey back to school. It was an amazing & Zainab Gani, Year 10G experience and a memorable day. When we arrived at the Science Museum, we left our bags and belongings in a safe place and Alima & Jumanah, Year 8G

amongst a cheering crowd, watching Tim then we went to the ground �loor. We were show our support and encouragement. There Peake’s launch live! We waved British �lags to Live. Everyone felt happy and anxious at the samewere threetime. presenters �ilming BBC2 Stargazing

Afterwards, we went to a theatre room and listened eagerly about space from a real astronaut. Then we found a big hall where we ate our lunch and prayed our Zuhr salah. We Above: View of the Cathedral's interior frescoes went to the gift shop and bought souvenirs and even space food!

Page 13 al-qalam

Year 9’s Trip to Queen Mary University of London

On Friday, 18th December, Year 9s had the opportunity to visit Queen Mary University. To proves that oxygen is present because for combustionThe �lame eventually to occur diedoxygen out. must This successfullybe present 25 bus all the way. When we arrived, we hence the reason why it burnt out. gatheredget there, outside was not in dif�icult an area we called simply the took curve the where most sales and market stalls are held on The part that most students enjoyed and found special occasions. funny was when he squirted out water and threw crushed ice across the laboratory. Personally, the part that I found most Building, this is where the chemistry interesting was when he got liquid nitrogen and experimentsOur workshop usually was held happen. in the AnJoseph ironic Priestley fact is outcome would be that the liquid would our workshop revolved around the topic ‘The continuepoured it toonto be athe liquid �loor. no The matter most where predictable it fell. Airthat We Joseph Breathe’. Priestley The discovered discussion Oxygen was led and by However, due to the nitrogen liquid being at a Dr Tippu Sheriff. He explained to us that most of the air in the atmosphere is not oxygen but it is nitrogen vaporized and turned into white in fact nitrogen. steam.low temperature Another trick when which it was hit thedemonstrated �loor, the was that when dry ice is mixed with liquid He explained to us that everything is made out nitrogen then stage smoke is produced. of one or many elements from the periodic table. An example was that wood, which is After the Workshop we split into 2 groups and composed of carbon, hydrogen and oxygen. The got a tour of the campus and the university. This main question was however how comes we can trip was a good learning experience because it clearly prove that wood and water exist because allowed us to think ahead and realise that all the we can feel and touch it but what is the case for knowledge we acquire can take us somewhere oxygen. if we use it correctly. Seeing the university and the campus helps us to stay motivated and to Dr Tippu then proceeded the talk by asking how not give up. It also allowed me to further know we would prove the existence of oxygen to what I want to do when I reach that stage of someone who did not know, like another choosing what course to take and how species from the planet Mars. We then carried potentially University life is like. (Even though I out the experiment of lighting a candle (a form have a few years left).

Jamila Kasoma, Year 9 of combustion) and then placed a large �lask to trap the oxygen reaching the open �lame. Page 14

al-qalam

My Experience at Azhar

That basically sums up my experience in year forgets. I remember entering the building 11. Balancing GCSE’s along with Islamic studies thinkingThe �irst it day was of huge year and 7, a worrying day that onewhat never will and Aalimah studies is something that makes happen if I get lost, I can safely say, Azhar has Azhar students more tolerant to great workloads than other students. One thing I’ve learnt from Azhar is to keep up with work. week,taught which me how was to unfortunate, �ind my way especially around awhen small I Teachers also help. Personally, I’ve seen that at hadschool. to explain I did get my lostlateness a few to timesthe teachers. in the This �irst Azhar Academy, teachers have a unique caring is why secondary school tests your bravery and nature towards their students. This is one of the things I will miss. Every end of year assembly situations when your heart is beating out of we end up singing ‘We’re one big family’, and it’s yourcourage, abaya explaining is terrifying. yourself Communicating and trying towith �ix because we are. I’ve always been told that family others is a crucial aspect needed if you want to is greater than friendship and I only understood get far not only in school, but in life. This is this in my last year. When I think about my petrifying, especially when the older students sisters at Azhar Academy, I thank Allah . are 10 times taller. Nevertheless, I managed to endlessly for granting me such a big family, not get through year 7 in one piece. forgetting the motherly love given out by some teachers. I agree that revision and preparation The next few years, year 8 and year 9, they went gets you through school, but at the end of the by so quick I didn’t even realise until GCSE day, you need people like yourself to share preparation hit me in the face. These two years everything with, and if you haven’t broken were my favourite. Stress-free, no important down in tears at least once, your life is too stress exams and many friends around me, a school free. life I don’t even have the time to think about now. Personally, year 8 and year 9 taught me Throughout my time at Azhar Academy, I have about respect. My patience was tested learnt many things. This doesn’t just mean immensely and I suppose this is one of the life academic studies; it also includes Islamic lessons that Azhar Academy teaches. You can’t knowledge and morals. A teacher once said, get everything served on a plate in life, if you want something, only your hard work can obtain it. Also, life requires a great deal of many“You can’t lectures be alike good this Muslim and they unless are inevitable you are a respect, not only for teachers and parents, but butgood this human is one being of the �irst”. lessons Of course,that I will I’ve forever heard for yourself. If you want respect, you earn it by remember. We are taught how to become better giving it out. humans, citizens, students, sisters and daughters. The Muslim Ummah is like one body, Finally, the last two years. The amount of times I and Azhar students are an important part of it, although a tiny one. The morals that Azhar year, girls”. Stress, stress and more stress. Academy have instilled in me is something that heard the phrase “this is your make or break no other school can ever offer me, and this is the main reason that makes my experience at Azhar Academy an experience which is unique.

Sumiya Firdaus, Year 11A

Page 15

al-qalam

Etiquettes of Studying aayah of the Qur’an to be revealed enjoined closer to Allah as a result. readingIslam is which the religion is the key of to knowledge. knowledge: The �irst others with this bene�icial knowledge, drawing It is very important that we have good intentions because it is narrated that Umar bin created (all that exists). al-Khattab said: I heard the Messenger of “Read! In the Name of your Lord Who has Allah , say: In Islam, knowledge comes before action; there can be no action without knowledge. This means that as Muslims we have to try and seek (niyyah), so each man will have what he knowledge whether it is Islamic knowledge or intended.“Actions are (judged) by motives/ intention knowledge that you learn at school. For this reason there are etiquettes of studying. 2. Study with excellence It was related by Anas bin Malik that the Grand intentions require grand efforts. We must strive to study to the best of our ability and aim for excellence, not perfection. Prophet ṣallallāhu 'alayhi wa sallam said: Muslim.” [Sunan Ibn Mâjah] Alhamdulillah, Allah prescribed excellence and “Seeking knowledge is obligatory upon every not perfection in all our works. However, as with all things in our Deen, there are proper ways of going about doing things. 3. Have reliance upon Allah We have a certain way of performing wudhu, While doing our best, we must rely upon performing salaah, tasbeeh, zikr, fasting and Allah for the results. We must trust that He hajj. will make things easy for us and will grant us success. Here are 5 etiquettes of studying knowledge: This is an essential etiquette for seeking knowledge because we acknowledge that any 1. Have a sincere intention success that comes our way is through Allah . enlightenAn example my intellectual is: “I am studyinggrowth and to that help of the ummah with this bene�icial knowledge, to

Page 16 al-qalam

closer to Allah as a result. others with this bene�icial knowledge, drawing It is very important that we have good intentions because it is narrated that Umar bin al-Khattab said: I heard the Messenger of Etiquettes of Studying Allah , say: 4. Make dua to Allah The above points mentioned are all inward To help you to study and to make things easy manners of seeking knowledge.

(niyyah), so each man will have what he Outward manners include: intended.“Actions are (judged) by motives/ intention for you. If in dif�iculty recite: • Repeat and Review 2. Study with excellence • Take notes. Grand intentions require grand efforts. We • Ask! must strive to study to the best of our ability and aim for excellence, not perfection. The Prophet said,

Alhamdulillah, Allah prescribed excellence and not perfection in all our works. •“The Extra cure Readings for confusion is but to ask”. 3. Have reliance upon Allah • Prepare for class While doing our best, we must rely upon • Listen attentively and do not interrupt the Allah for the results. We must trust that He speaker or speak while he is speaking will make things easy for us and will grant us Meaning: O Allah ! There is nothing easy success. except what You make easy, and You make the Islamic Studies Department This is an essential etiquette for seeking knowledge because we acknowledge that any 5.dif�icult Thank easy Allah if it be Your Will. success that comes our way is through Allah . Especially when you have learned something well or have completed your study.

Allah says that if we are thankful to Him, He will grant us more out of His bounty.

Page 17

al-qalam

The above points mentioned are all inward Qur’an Celebration Day! manners of seeking knowledge. On Wednesday, 9th December 2015, selected We chose to do a presentation based on the students visited Iqra Primary school for the Outward manners include: Quran celebration day. We were able to watch chose this particular surah as it mentions the 7 many presentations produced by different qualities�irst 10 needed ayaat ofto become Surah-tul-Muminoon. a true believer. We • Repeat and Review schools- both primary and secondary, it was an • Take notes. opportunity to learn and refresh our We then tookturns to explain each of these • Ask! understanding of the glorious Qur’an. We qualities in more detail after the opening ayaat listened to many beautiful recitations from had been recited. We rounded it up with a The Prophet said, children of all age groups and watched plays poem made by the girls, based on the 7 regarding prophets mentioned in the Holy qualities. Quran. Overall, we had an amazing time and are •“The Extra cure Readings for confusion is but to ask”. We learnt about many different topics in the extremely grateful for the opportunity we had • Prepare for class Quran- some that we hadn’t ever thought of! to attend the Quran celebration event and we • Listen attentively and do not interrupt the For example, the many times trees are would like to thank Iqra primary for hosting speaker or speak while he is speaking mentioned in the Quran and facts and the this great event. purposes of them being mentioned. We also Kaanitha Chowdhury, Year 10A Islamic Studies Department As well as that, one school spoke about the learnt about the blessings and bene�its of rain. beginning of prophethood. (The story of Musa ASstory and behind pharaoh the as �irstwell revelationas the story and of the elephant) Not only did we hear talks about the importance of the Quran, but also we were able to hear the translation, commentary of many ayaat and ahadith.

Page 18 Above: View of the Cathedral's interior frescoes

al-qalam

Tajweed: Makharij Many people have the misconception that since A person should take special care when certain letters within the Arabic alphabet are reading the Qur’an with all its beauty and similar, they can be recited with the same makhraj because makhraj and pronunciation. Yes it is true that We chose to do a presentation based on the the letters may have several resemblances such 1. Reading incorrectly will make you sinful as as place of makhraj and origin, however it is reading without the Qur’ans beauty is a minor chose this particular surah as it mentions the 7 not necessary that they make the same sound. sin and makrooh qualities�irst 10 needed ayaat ofto become Surah-tul-Muminoon. a true believer. We For example, the letters and 2. You can be changing the words of Allah just We then tookturns to explain each of these because you are not putting enough effort to qualities in more detail after the opening ayaat The letter is pronounced by pressing the read the noble Qur’an. had been recited. We rounded it up with a tip of the tongue against the hard palate and poem made by the girls, based on the 7 then elevating the tongue. Makhraj is really important when reading the qualities. Qur’an because if you don’t recite every single In the same way is also pronounced by letter with all its makhraj and rules you will not Overall, we had an amazing time and are pressing the tip of the tongue against the hard get the full reward of reciting! extremely grateful for the opportunity we had palate, however, the tongue is pressed behind to attend the Quran celebration event and we the front teeth instead of being elevated. Rameen Zul�iqar, Year 11 would like to thank Iqra primary for hosting this great event. This small change shows how both letters are completely different, despite being originated Kaanitha Chowdhury, Year 10A from the same place, the tongue.

Now, is full mouth and is empty mouth, this means that if one letter is recited in place of another the whole meaning of the word is changed.

Page 19 Above: View of the Cathedral's interior frescoes

al-qalam

A person should take special care when reading the Qur’an with all its beauty and makhraj because

1. Reading incorrectly will make you sinful as reading without the Qur’ans beauty is a minor sin and makrooh Hifdh Graduation A few years ago, we embarked on the blessed When we graduated we felt overwhelmed with 2. You can be changing the words of Allah just journey of memorizing the Quran. all our teachers and parents watching us. But because you are not putting enough effort to we still have to carry on and keep on revising so read the noble Qur’an. It required a lot of commitment, dedication, that we don’t forget it, so the journey isn’t over and hard-work. There were many ups and yet. This journey has taught us so much over Makhraj is really important when reading the downs for example, waking up early in the the last few years, however this is not the end, Qur’an because if you don’t recite every single morning and remembering previous lessons. we cannot just forget the Quran ad leave it letter with all its makhraj and rules you will not Despite the fact there were many struggles and behind us, we need to go over it and embed our get the full reward of reciting! hardships whilst memorizing the holy Quran, self in this next journey. our parents and teachers assisted us along the Rameen Zul�iqar, Year 11 way. This is a time for us to use the knowledge we have to teach us what is wrong and to help us During the course, we were always given through our tests in this Dunya (Life). This also means we cannot forget those who have of time, but as we drew closer to the end, helped us during those blessed days months targetstargets, werewhich the at only�irst, thing we thought that kept was us agoing. waste and years. We make Du’a for them and pray for them and inshallah whatever reward we get We would like to take this time to give thanks to they get double, Ameen. all teachers for all their help and support, also to our parents who play a big role in us By Hannah Hussain, Yr 11, memorizing the Holy Quran. Khadija Musaddiq, Yr 11 & Maryam Rayhaan, Yr 11

Page 20

al-qalam

al-qalam

History of the Arabic Language Arabic is now the 6th most spoken language in the world and is spoken by more than 200 million people worldwide. Arabic started off as a language that was only spoken by a small population. Nomadic tribes would travel around the Arabian Peninsula and speak Arabic, a language they were very proud of. Prose, poetry and oral literature were common ways to communicate through Arabic in those times. Why Learn Arabic? When we graduated we felt overwhelmed with all our teachers and parents watching us. But By the 7th Century A.D., Arabic started to • Arabic is the 5th most commonly spoken we still have to carry on and keep on revising so spread to the Middle East as many people native language in the world. that we don’t forget it, so the journey isn’t over started to convert to Islam. During this time of • Arabic is the liturgical language of Islam. yet. This journey has taught us so much over religious conversions, Arabic replaced many • There is a high demand and low supply of the last few years, however this is not the end, South Arabian languages, most of which are no Arabic-speakers in the Western world. we cannot just forget the Quran ad leave it longer commonly spoken or understood behind us, we need to go over it and embed our languages. Arabic. self in this next journey. • Arabic-speaking There are �inancial nations incentives are a fast for growing learning market for trade. This is a time for us to use the knowledge we countries in the Middle East such as Egypt, Arabic is the of�icial language of many have to teach us what is wrong and to help us Universities offering degrees in Arabic in the UK through our tests in this Dunya (Life). This also Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon, Libya, Morocco, Saudi means we cannot forget those who have languages of the United Nations. Metrpolitan University Arabia and Sudan. It is also one of the six of�icial helped us during those blessed days months Regent's University London and years. We make Du’a for them and pray for There are three forms of Arabic; Qur’anical University of Manchester them and inshallah whatever reward we get Arabic, Modern Standard Arabic, and University of Warwick they get double, Ameen. Colloquial Arabic. Qur’anical Arabic is not used SOAS University of London in conversation or in non- religious writing and University of Oxford By Hannah Hussain, Yr 11, Khadija Musaddiq, Yr 11 of the Arabic world. Colloquial Arabic refers to Ms Muna Alsaadi Modern Standard Arabic is the of�icial language & Maryam Rayhaan, Yr 11 Arabic that is spoken with a dialect. Arabic Department

Page 21

al-qalam

Hold on a sec... IT, Computer Science and ICT are the same thing, right? No. The most important thing to remember Better yet, try to think about the three subjects here is that ICT isn’t all about computers. in terms of cars. In this scenario, ICT would be Whilst IT focuses on hardware and the way the equivalent of driving a car, whilst IT and computers process data, and Computer Computer Science would be more comparable Everyday starting with bismillah Science focuses on theory and programing, ICT to designing and building a car. I pray my fajr see the amazing sunrise takes a broader approach and focuses on the I make duaa and say salaam… way in which digital information is Momataj Begum To you my friend communicated. Sure, computers still play a big Computer Science To you my brothers and sisters part, but ICT also looks at how devices like To you my lovely mother, to you my lovely telephones or audio/visual networks can be father used alongside computers. It’s basically a To you, to you, to you, to the whole Muslim combination of IT and telecommunications. Important E-safety tips for Ummah Parents of Teenagers Say salaam and give them a smile, show how Confusion happens because all three subjects much you care overlap and share similarities, but it’s best to Since for every salaam, your rewards are remember that ICT is actually more about how See next page > stacking up high we use technology - including computers and To you, to you, to you programs - whilst IT and Computer science are often about theory and how computers and Humaira Uddin, Year 7A programs work.

Page 22

E-safety tips for Parents of Teenagers

of 9-16 year-olds 42% accept ‘friend’ requests from people Checklist they don’t know Adjust controls Adjust the parental controls on your broadband and internet-enabled devices, depending on your child‛s age. Your broadband provider can tell you how.

Find out how to setup safe search in Google Net Children Go Mobile: The UK Report – EU Kids Online by going to google.co.uk/safetycentre. (July 2014)

Keep talking Manage their online reputation Stay interested in what they‛re doing online Let them know that anything they upload, and discuss what they might have come email or message could stay online forever. Remind them that they should only post subjects like cyberbulling and sexting. things online that they wouldn‛t mind you, their teacher or a future employer seeing. Privacy matters Make sure they set high privacy settings Stay safe on the move on social networks. Encourage them to Make sure safety and privacy settings are regularly change their passwords and activated on their mobile devices and they never to share or put online any of their aren‛t sharing private information. Be aware personal details like phone number, address or their school. inappropriate content, so look for friendly WiFi symbols when you‛re out and about.

Know this stuff matters, but don’t know where to turn?

Internet Matters is a free online resource for every parent in the UK. We’ll show you the best ways to protect your children online - with information, advice and support on all the big e-safety issues.

Page 23 Learn about it: Talk about it: Teach your child some simple rules Tips for a meaningful conversation

Make sure your child knows how to block abusive Make sure your child knows they can come to you comments and report content that worries them if they’re upset by something they’ve seen online Teach them to respect others online and think Tell them you trust them to do the right thing about comments before they post them rather than over monitoring their internet use Don’t arrange to meet people in real life that If your child comes to you with an issue, stay calm they’ve only talked to online and remind them that and listen without judging them and don’t threaten some people may not be who they say they are to take away their devices Use secure and legal sites to download music Tackle peer pressure by explaining that if they’re and games talked into bullying someone online or sending Check attachments and pop ups for viruses inappropriate images it may get reported to their before they click or download anything school or even the police When using the internet for homework, make sure Talk to them about how much time they spend they use information appropriately and explain online and make sure this is balanced against things in their own words rather than copying other activities

Deal with it: Learn more about apps on the Take Action page of internetmatters.org, It can be difficult to stay on top of what where we include information on how to report apps your child is using and who they problems - and which relevant organisations are talking to online and agencies to turn to. – find out more about the latest apps at internetmatters.org/apps On this page, we also provide information on encounter with your child; such as cyberbullying, identity theft, your child’s online reputation, online pornography and child grooming.

Page 24 al-qalam

Visit by Chief Rabbi Mirvis Last month during interfaith week, pupils at interpretation of the story about heaven and AAGS were addressed in an assembly by Chief hell and everyone needs someone, and we need Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis. to help everyone.

Chief Rabbi Mirvis is an Orthodox rabbi who To conclude, you made all of us think over what serves as the Chief Rabbi of the United Hebrew we can do to change, become better people, and Congregations of the Commonwealth. help ourselves to help others.

Lastly, a science show took place in the Chief Rabbi Mirvis talked about how honoured Another message from Arooj Khan, Year 10 basement, where we learnt about the laws of he was to visit our school and then went on to Isaac Newton. We took part in three informative talk about the importance of remaining proud experiments, which involved big bangs! of our faith and how now more than ever, we community was fascinating. The freshness of must create a community acceptance and ChiefLearning Rabbi’s about perspective leadership and inspiring in the Jewishwords At 2.15pm, we prayed our Asr salah and made tolerance and helping others, and what we can was deeply compelling. We were especially our journey back to school. It was an amazing do to serve others. fascinated by the meaning of azhar and the experience and a memorable day. Here is what Hannah Munir Patel from 8G had the sake of God. Alima & Jumanah, Year 8G traditional Jewish stories regarding helping for that you showed so much respect for our His words were deeply touching and opened religion,to say about so this the visit concluded “The girls to theof 8G feeling thought of respect and honour towards you. You wanted Islamic values are. It was a great blessing to unity not uniformity and equality not havemany the of ourChief eyes Rabbi to how visit similar us and the tell Jewishus that and we superiority. You advised us that we should be should be proud of what we have and how we should not let our values be taken away. of what others think of us. After listening to you we felt motivated after the proud and not to shy away or be less con�ident sense of peace, love and unity you spread.

but comparisons to show that everyone has We look forward to future visits and further somethingSecondly, the in speechcommon you so gave we should didn’t stateall be �laws one, like your very wise contrast of an orchestra. community. opportunities to work alongside the Jewish Pupils of 8G were very impressed by your Apa Shabana, Religious Education Teacher

Page 25 al-qalam

3 Faiths Forum

This year 20 students from year 9 have signed up for our ongoing 3FF (Three Faiths Forum) 3FF works to build good relations what exactly is 3FF and why are we at AAGS between people of different faiths, beliefs excitedprogram for which our studentswill begin to in take January part in2016. it year So after year?

At AAGS we are always looking for Deeper & more meaningful encounters opportunities to provide our students with a chance to encounter people of different faiths Those students who have signed up for 3ff will and backgrounds in order to help foster have exciting and engaging ‘link days’ to look understanding and create long- lasting bonds forward to which will have been arranged of friendships, and 3FF are here to help us do together by the teachers from both link schools exactly that. and with support from 3FF, full of engaging activities that explore issues around belief and When our year 9 students meet up with identity. they won’t only get to make new friendships, The link days will take place at a neutral venue butstudents will also from be Stambassadors Ursula’s school in: in January, at the two schools, giving the students a chance at �irst and subsequent link days will take place • Dispelling common myths and stereotypes to both host and visit. At the subsequent links, • Understanding the diversity within and students build on their friendships and take between different traditions part in activities exploring ideas of diversity • Learning how different people understand and community. Continues on next page... and live their faiths and beliefs.

By the end of the program, our students will be collaborating with anybody, regardless of their faith,more belief, con�ident culture inor background communicating and more and able to ask and answer questions in a sensitive way.

Page 26 al-qalam

Continued from previous page... Students on the Linking programme: Interfaith Week This year Interfaith week took place • Take part in engaging and memorable link between 15th- 21st November at AAGS. experiences throughout the academic year • Deepen knowledge and understanding of Whilst interfaith week can include many things different beliefs by engaging directly with such as drawing new people into interfaith students from different backgrounds learning and cooperation, enabling greater • Develop skills of communication, empathy interaction between people of different Deeper & more meaningful encounters backgrounds, our focus at AAGS this year was to celebrate diversity and commonality and Those students who have signed up for 3ff will and re�lection Students who have taken part in the linking opening up new possibilities for partnership. have exciting and engaging ‘link days’ to look programme in the past have found it be forward to which will have been arranged Why take part in interfaith week? together by the teachers from both link schools and with support from 3FF, full of engaging immensely bene�icial and enjoyable: "I feel it was more about just getting to know At AAGS we believe that it is extremely activities that explore issues around belief and each other. I actually made friends. I got to important for us to build good relationships identity. learn about their religion and they learnt about and working partnerships between people of ours. We got to experience each other’s lives different faiths and beliefs as well as: The link days will take place at a neutral venue and how different but also how similar we are." • Strengthening good inter faith relations at all at the two schools, giving the students a chance Zainab Gani, Year 10G levels toat �irstboth and host subsequent and visit. At link the days subsequent will take placelinks, Isha Hussain, Year 8G • Increasing awareness of the different and students build on their friendships and take distinct faith communities in our community part in activities exploring ideas of diversity • Increasing understanding between people of and community. Continues on next page... religious and non-religious beliefs

Hundreds of AAGS students made pledges during inter faith week, as to how they would play their part in creating a better society and greater global community. These pledges now

are prominently displayed at the front of the

school on the ground �loor. Page 27 al-qalam

9G’s Assembly on Healthy Eating

On 8th December 9G presented an assembly on We followed this with Sunnah ways of eating healthy eating to the whole school. which helps how your food is used when it enters the body. For example, wash your hands The presentation focused on what healthy before you eat as this helps remove all bacteria eating does, the impact it leaves and the that could have been there. We hope that diseases it prevents. The main purpose of our everyone took something from our assembly was not to tell our fellow pupils to presentation and learnt something new. completely stop consuming unhealthy foods, Jamila Kasoma, Year 9G to give them information on what eating unhealthysuch as �izzy foods drinks can and do tosweets, your body. but we wanted

Most know that the Quran and Hadith are given to us as a guide. Allah knows best and is all-knowing. We stated some Quranic verses to show that healthy eating is only in the best intention of that person. One such hadith is:

‘Eat your meal at dawn, for there is blessing in a meal at dawn’. those could have towards your health. Dates areWe alsoa sunnah showed food Sunnah and foodsis a good and the source bene�its for energy.

Page 28 4. Make dua to Allah To help you to study and to make things easy

for you. If in dif�iculty recite:

Meaning: O Allah ! There is nothing easy except what You make easy, and You make the

5.dif�icult Thank easy Allah if it be Your Will. Especially when you have learned something well or have completed your study.

Allah says that if we are thankful to Him, He will grant us more out of His bounty.

al-qalam

Cornerstone Maths Project We followed this with Sunnah ways of eating A few members of the maths department have which helps how your food is used when it been attending training with the Cornerstone enters the body. For example, wash your hands Maths Project, and will hopefully implement before you eat as this helps remove all bacteria Learning to Learn this into teaching in the coming year. The that could have been there. We hope that In Learning to Learn (L2L) this term, Year 8 Project enables the use of ICT in Maths in order everyone took something from our presentation and learnt something new. mind-set and learning how to cope with the curriculum; and teachers have been train- varioushas been situations. studying Some the growth people and have �ixed a ingto explain on how some to use of thethe softwaremore dif�icult as well topics as how on Jamila Kasoma, Year 9G to incorporate this into their teaching. one. growth mind set whereas others have a �ixed The software will help students visualise What is a growth mind-set? We learnt that a problems so they may gain a higher growth mind-set is having a positive attitude understanding of the concepts, rather than just towards obstacles, whether it is failing or learning the methodical approach to having negative thoughts about your answering questions. This will hopefully give them more of an insight into how more hand is the complete opposite, where you complicated topics in maths such as linear maylearning. be too The scared �ixed to mind-set, try again on after the failure. other functions can be used in real life situations. my opinion towards learning. We are looking to continue giving the students L2L has helped me and de�initely challenged opportunities like this where they can learn You should always try and never give up. Do using a variety of methods, and be aware of the not forget that determination and options that are available to them for the perseverance is key to success. Strive to future. succeed! Umara Kashif, Year 8S MS K.Begum, Maths – PGCE Student

Page 29 al-qalam

Drama club works extremely hard to organise They were six people who participated and did performances for students to enjoy at the end an excellent job: Hannah Munir Patel, Syeda of each term. This term the theme of the Nabiha Rufaidah, Nabila Isa, Uzma Khankara, performance was bullying. Suhayfa Mohammed and Zaahra Kheyar. Drama Club: “TheEveryone Plot was bouncingWas with blissfulnessEpic” after The performance was directed by Hannah the performance. The girls said that it didn’t Munir Patel (who also played the victim) and feel like acting, instead it was like being that Baasima Khalid Patel (who organized the set actual person, which was very fun. and extras). It was all about a new student who joins a new school hoping to get a proper education, make new friends and most of all manner” have a good time. She meets three new girls “It sent a strong message but in a humorous who act nice but being so gullible she wasn’t The thoughts of the audience were enough to aware that they were using her. make the drama club squad proud. They set impeccable standards which they reached and They were bullies. Her discover led to harsh went beyond. Each scene led to another great and frightening consequences. one and the transition didn’t lose the audi- ence’s attention. Excellent, wacky and colorful Drama Club thought that this matter was very costumes really added to the mood. serious issue in a fun and engaging manner. Students really enjoyed our play and we are Whenserious, we but thoughtwe had to �indand abrainstormed way to deliver plotthis happy that we have a Drama Club. discussed how we could make the storyline Drama Club – AAGS moreideas, we realistic re�lected situation. on books We we had came read to and a compromise and combined all our ideas to create an epic script.

Page 30 Many people have the misconception that since certain letters within the Arabic alphabet are similar, they can be recited with the same makhraj and pronunciation. Yes it is true that the letters may have several resemblances such as place of makhraj and origin, however it is not necessary that they make the same sound.

For example, the letters and

The letter is pronounced by pressing the tip of the tongue against the hard palate and then elevating the tongue.

In the same way is also pronounced by pressing the tip of the tongue against the hard palate, however, the tongue is pressed behind the front teeth instead of being elevated.

This small change shows how both letters are completely different, despite being originated from the same place, the tongue.

Now, is full mouth and is empty mouth, this means that if one letter is recited in place of another the whole meaning of the word is changed.

al-qalam

Year 8 Fauvism inspired art work Fauvism... Art This Term

This term we worked on an extraordinary topic They began experimenting with resources to in art, Fauvism, an early 1900’s technique of invent more ways of capturing things. Each They were six people who participated and did fun art. Right from the beginning I knew it’d be an excellent job: Hannah Munir Patel, Syeda a very exciting project and I was really looking Among the many famous techniques lie: Nabiha Rufaidah, Nabila Isa, Uzma Khankara, forward to it- and my excitement was really Fauvismtechnique and was Pointillism. unique for its speci�ic artist. Suhayfa Mohammed and Zaahra Kheyar. worth it, it was all so much fun and I learnt an Everyone was bouncing with blissfulness after awful lot of new techniques that I could take We knew that as we do for every topic, we were the performance. The girls said that it didn’t with me to apply in other general artwork. feel like acting, instead it was like being that had to make our very own fauvist piece of actual person, which was very fun. We started off by exploring the wonders of work-to apply so what we paid we had extra learnt attention in a �inal to the piece details - we historic art and I found that the history part of and features. We analysed many oil paintings art wasn’t at all boring, but was rather done by Andre Derain (inventor of this method manner” “It sent a strong message but in a humorous intriguing. We were also told about how these of painting which was attracted by hundred of fascinating techniques came about and why The thoughts of the audience were enough to they were really important to the artists what Fauvism really was… make the drama club squad proud. They set themselves and how the success of them thousands). But �irst of all we needed to know impeccable standards which they reached and depended on the artists’ future. Fauvism was the unusual method of art which went beyond. Each scene led to another great grew to be very popular and even became one one and the transition didn’t lose the audi- It was when the camera came along, sweeping the most famous painting styles. This method ence’s attention. Excellent, wacky and colorful away the efforts of hundreds of experienced includes the use of unrealistic and clashing costumes really added to the mood. artists and their ambitions for the future, and of colours and thick brush strokes; in some pieces course everybody preferred the camera to movement is visible. We created our Students really enjoyed our play and we are adaption- of a park, inspired by Andre Derain’s happy that we have a Drama Club. was more worth it. Artists realised that their fabulous technique. Overall, Alhamdulillah, talentspaintings-as were no �irst, more it took appreciated; much less hence, time they and during the course of this project, I was able to Drama Club – AAGS were then determined to make a change improve a lot of my artistic skills and a very big

knowing that their future and their families would be in danger. Jazakallah to my Art teacher,Baasima Ms. Patel,Mahmud. Year 8G

Page 31 al-qalam

History Year 9 History Year 7 History

During this term we have been covering Year 7s have learnt some amazing topics this different topics like world war one, causes of term. One unit in particular is the Norman the world war one and the aftermath of WW1 Conquest, where they learnt about the feudal from Germany’s point of view; as we will be system amongst many other topics.

unit we will be learning about this year is The feudal system is a system of dividing land Weimarstudying and the Nazinew Germanythree-year 1918-1939. GCSE and the �irst amongst the knights, powerful landowners and peasants during the 11th century. This was The topic that we particularly liked was done in order for the Norman conqueror, King propaganda in regards to recruitment for war. William to keep control of England.

There are two types of propaganda; black and As it was not an easy concept to grasp; the white propaganda. Black propaganda makes starter activity was structured in a way to people feel hatred towards the Germans and provide a better understanding around the white propaganda play on people’s feelings in topic. 7G had to make a physical human order to convince them to join the war. One pyramid of the school system. The bottom of activity we did was to make our own posters as the pyramid had students, then prefects on top; part of our homework. They all came out teachers; Head of Department; Deputy head amazing. With this task we were all allowed to and at the top of the pyramid; Headteacher. be creative. This made us all feel that there is a This was a really fun activity and it gave them fun side to history. the chance to imagine and thus understand how a pyramid system would work; in regards By Tasneem Akhter, Year 9A to the feudal system of the Normans. & Dhiyaa Ahmed, Year 9A Ms H. Zahid, Teacher

Page 32 Arabic is now the 6th most spoken language in the world and is spoken by more than 200 million people worldwide. Arabic started off as a language that was only spoken by a small population. Nomadic tribes would travel around the Arabian Peninsula and speak Arabic, a language they were very proud of. Prose, poetry and oral literature were common ways to communicate through Arabic in those times.

By the 7th Century A.D., Arabic started to spread to the Middle East as many people started to convert to Islam. During this time of religious conversions, Arabic replaced many South Arabian languages, most of which are no longer commonly spoken or understood languages.

countries in the Middle East such as Egypt, Arabic is the of�icial language of many

languagesIraq, Jordan, of the Lebanon, United Nations. Libya, Morocco, Saudi Arabia and Sudan. It is also one of the six of�icial There are three forms of Arabic; Qur’anical Arabic, Modern Standard Arabic, and Colloquial Arabic. Qur’anical Arabic is not used in conversation or in non- religious writing and

of the Arabic world. Colloquial Arabic refers to ArabicModern that Standard is spoken Arabic with is a the dialect. of�icial language

al-qalam

Our Visit to the Charles Dickens Museum

This term students from Year 8 visited the Next stop was the bathroom that was very cold and unpleasant; it felt as if you were trapped in about Charles Dickens, his writing and there with no escape. inspirations.Charles Dickens When museum we arrived to �indwe were out taken more into the basement where the women used to Our last stop was the kids’ room and where work, churn butter, cook the pasta and keep the they used to play and what they used to wear. hedgehog. Girls used to wear long dresses with frills at the end. We were taken on a tour of Dickens house (now a museum). Overall the experience was interesting and I would consider having a visit there again as it was full of information of which I didn’t know. place where people had to work everyday. We wereOur �irst then stop taken was upstairs the basement. to a warmer It was aroom cold We learnt more about Charles and his career where the Dickens and his family used to sit and it was interesting all the things he went and eat their dinner. Portraits were displayed through, his amazing writing and how he everywhere of their ancestors. The adjacent room was where Dickens used to get his writing done on a big wooden desk. becameSabah Jamil, a celebrated Year 8S and proli�ic writer.

We were then taken into a smaller room which was where Dickens wife used to sleep after he got a divorce and was married again.

Page 33 al-qalam

Shanghai Maths Lessons

We have always heard about the mathematics They appear to have clear aims of the lessons capabilities of Shanghai students and their and do not allow students’ questions to change outperformance comparing to the other these aims. countries. However, I have not got the opportunity to know the exact reason behind Additionally, teachers deliver the lessons using this until three weeks ago. different short activities to enhance students’ understandings. They always concentrated on I was one of the fortunate teachers who the explanation behind the answer rather than observe two lessons taught by Shanghai teachers in Harris Academy. Throughout the various misconceptions were revealed. lessons, I have realised that Shanghai teachers accepting it as a �inal outcome. By doing so, repeated the key mathematical vocabularies Discussion after the lessons shows that the and always insist that the students use them Shanghai teachers have much less contact with throughout the lesson. One of interesting the students comparing to the teachers in the features that I have realised is the students are UK. Therefore, they have more time to observe expected to repeat sentences in unison after the teachers. They then asked one of the capable students to model the correct use of Finally,the others as and teachers, re�lect on we their have practise. the urge to vocabulary in full sentences. emphasise the importance of using the mathematical vocabularies in the classroom Shanghai teachers always focus on the concrete and focus on the deep conceptual understanding of the concept and strongly link understanding of mathematics. the new knowledge with the previous ones. Ms Manal, Teacher – Mathematics

Page 34

al-qalam

Friendship Don’t ever think you won’t need friends in life. Wherever you are, wherever you go you ALWAYS need friends. One of the reasons I really loved primary was having my friends, and enjoying my time with them. But at times, we would argue and I only had that one girl with me. My TRUE friend. She was honest and kind and was always there for me by my side. Aalimah/ A man called Albert Camus once said ‘Don’t walk behind me; I may not lead. Don’t walk in Islamic Studies me and be my friend.’ front of me; I may not follow. Just walk beside & Hifdh Don’t forget money cannot buy friends!

rd Khadija Tafader, Year 7A Alhamdulilah this year we hosted our 3 Aalimah graduation, where 16 of our students graduated as Aalimah. We also had 3 of our AAGS Hifz students, Hannah Hussain, Khadija Year 7 Musaddiq & Maryam Rehan who completed their memorization of the Qur’aan. leaving primary to going to secondary. From Both our Aalimah and Hifz students beingFrom the �lying oldest tears to tobeing a nervousthe youngest. cry. From MashaAllaah put tremendous effort in starting a new leaf to throwing the other. achieving their goal. A big well done to them

This has been a rough term as it says we are not supportive during their studies. the oldest anymore, we have to cope with many and JazakAllah to parents for being so lessons, and don’t even think about homework! Next term InshaAllah the Aalimah & Islamic Studies will be preparing for their mid-year Somewhere in my heart I hope and know that exams. I would like to remind parents to each and every year 7 is going to be a successful continue to encourage their children to revise. marvellous school. I pray Allah accepts all of our efforts, makes person after they �inish their �ive years in this our graduates and students a means of guiding So I wish all of us luck and InshaAllah we all light for the Ummah. Ameen. reach our goals one day. Apa Roshan Sabaad Ahmed, Yr 7 G Head of Aalimaah/Islamic Studies & Hifz

Page 35

al-qalam The Brave Woman Asia Bint Muzahim

During Prophet Musa (A.S) and Prophet Harun (A.S) time, there was a woman called Asia bint Muzahim (RA). A woman that represented everything we should be, and everything we should at least try to become. She represented all the qualities of a believer, and carried herself with dignity and honour. Her bravery shall forever be remembered, as she faced treacherous beats and endless pain to be a Muslim. This amazing woman gave up her palace, her gold and her life for Allah and for Islam… yet what do we give up for

Islam? What do we give up for our creator? Our Lord? Our Judge? She died for Islam,Nothing yet some compared of us choose to her to sacri�ices! die without it! Allah has

prophet when he was only just a baby and cherished him like a motherpromised would her doa kingdom for her own in Jannah son, with (Paradise) sweetness and compassion she took in our and endless love. She was a woman and she was, with no doubt, one of the bravest there ever was. May she not always be remembered as the wife of the pharaoh-but as the one who stood up to him for her deen and for Muslims to be given freedom and equality. She was an example of courage and she did not falter under the pressure of Firoun (Pharaoh).

Anjum Begum, Year 8A al-qalam

During Prophet Musa (A.S) and Prophet Harun (A.S) time, there was a woman called Asia bint Muzahim (RA). A woman that represented everything we should be, and everything we should at least try to become. She represented all the qualities of a believer, and carried herself with dignity and honour. Her bravery shall forever be remembered, as she faced treacherous beats and endless Stitch Not Stab Workshop pain to be a Muslim. This amazing woman gave up her palace, her Year 10 students were given the opportunity to The second activity required us to learn about gold and her life for Allah and for Islam… yet what do we give up for stitching (suturing), and then we had to apply hosted by medical students from Kings College that knowledge using suturing kits as practice. University.take part in a “Stitch Not Stab” workshop This was very enjoyable to learn, after a few Islam? What do we give up for our creator? Our Lord? Our Judge? First an introduction was given by the students struggling tries we accomplished our goal and who told us a bit about their medical studies, had managed to master the technique of She died for Islam,Nothing yet some compared of us choose to her to sacri�ices! die without it! Allah has telling us some of the struggles they went stitching. Considering we were newbies! If only through and also achievements they attained. they let us try it on real people! It was very inspiring to know that one of the prophet when he was only just a baby and cherished him like a guests was actually an ex-Azhar Academy On a more serious note the experience was motherpromised would her doa kingdom for her own in Jannah son, with (Paradise) sweetness and compassion she took in our and student who is now studying medicine. This made us believe in the possibilities that could who dream to have an honoured place in the endless love. She was a woman and she was, with no doubt, one of occur when enough effort is put into our very bene�icial and encouraging for those of us the bravest there ever was. May she not always be remembered as studies It was their enthusiasm and optimistic feel science is something that should be more medical �ield. We extremely enjoyed it as we the wife of the pharaoh-but as the one who stood up to him for her nature that led them to where they are now. practical; these activities helped us learn more. deen and for Muslims to be given freedom and equality. She was an The hosts alternated between the roles of We would love to take part in such workshops again. We would certainly recommend others example of courage and she did not falter under the pressure of workshop consisted of building more to get involved too. Firoun (Pharaoh). knowledgecarrying out regarding two divided blood workshops. pressure andThe how�irst it works. We took turns being the doctor and Shair Bano & Sana Hussain, Year 10A patient with the blood pressure machine, having a hands-on experience. This helped us build more knowledge on the aspects affecting Anjum Begum, Year 8A our daily lives as many of us can agree, many people we know have to regularly check their blood pressure for whatever reasons, now we know the science behind it.

Page 37 al-qalam

Citizenship at AAGS

This term the Citizenship Department took a group of Year 10 girls to take part in the Muslim The second activity required us to learn about Youth Focus Group at Scotland Yard. The forum stitching (suturing), and then we had to apply is part of an initiative to work with young that knowledge using suturing kits as practice. Muslims and give them a platform to discuss community and global issues. This was very enjoyable to learn, after a few struggling tries we accomplished our goal and The topic for this month was ‘Innovative ways had managed to master the technique of to reach out to Young people who are stitching. Considering we were newbies! If only disengaged”. The girls put forward some really they let us try it on real people! great ideas MashaAllaah.

On a more serious note the experience was from their twitter page: who dream to have an honoured place in the https://twitter.com/MYPD_UK.You can �ind out more about the MYPD group very bene�icial and encouraging for those of us feel science is something that should be more The Citizenship Department also organized a practical;medical �ield. these We activities extremely helped enjoyed us learn it asmore. we talk about Citizenship and Transport. Transport for London came in and spoke to the We would love to take part in such workshops girls about promoting safe, responsible and again. We would certainly recommend others respectful behaviour on and around London's to get involved too. transport system.

Shair Bano & Sana Hussain, Year 10A We also had lots of information available at the Citizenship table during the very successful Open Evening MashaAllaah. All girls who had their books displayed received a merit MashaAllaah!

Ms Jabeen Zaidi Citizenship teacher and Curriculum Lead

Page 38 This term we worked on an extraordinary topic in art, Fauvism, an early 1900’s technique of fun art. Right from the beginning I knew it’d be a very exciting project and I was really looking forward to it- and my excitement was really worth it, it was all so much fun and I learnt an awful lot of new techniques that I could take with me to apply in other general artwork.

We started off by exploring the wonders of historic art and I found that the history part of art wasn’t at all boring, but was rather intriguing. We were also told about how these fascinating techniques came about and why they were really important to the artists themselves and how the success of them depended on the artists’ future.

It was when the camera came along, sweeping away the efforts of hundreds of experienced artists and their ambitions for the future, and of course everybody preferred the camera to was more worth it. Artists realised that their talentspaintings-as were no �irst, more it took appreciated; much less hence, time they and were then determined to make a change knowing that their future and their families would be in danger.

al-qalam

Autumn Term

Since the beginning of the academic year, we have hosted a number of exciting events for station have visited us to give a talk regarding students and staff to enjoy. Recently we held cyberIn addition bullying; to this, the of�icers consequences, from the after local affects police anti-bullying week. In order to promote love and legal action that can be taken. and peace, pupils were given the chance to buy Moreover, we have been raising money as a Some were fortunate enough to go around the locala �lower area with and hand a quote them and out a ribbonto strangers attached. as a taken place in Cumbria, north-west England. random gesture of kindness as well as to raise Oneschool person for thehas storm/�loodbeen found dead, that 45,000 has recently prop- awareness about bullying. erties are without electricity and approximate- - In addition to this, the Student Council ing the storm. The storm has been named organized a cake sale. We have raised £129 Stormly 4,881 Desmond. properties Both have class been councillors �looded infollow each putting an end to bullying with cakes and form have received a blue tin to collect their sweets…can it get any better? classmates donations. The form class which will collect the highest amount of money will Furthermore, the esteemed Na’ima B. Robert, obtain recognition from the school. best-selling Muslim female author of the popular book From my sisters lips, visited our Nureeya Khan, Year 7G school to hold a drama workshop and talk about her illustrious novels-she gave a brief outline of the plotlines of some her books. Through her session we got the opportunity to receive a taster of all her books through performance. She selected scenes from her books, and some groups then acted them out.

We later got the chance to buy her books.

Page 39 al-qalam

Empowering the Women School Council of Newham Through Engagement

Anti-Bullying Student Council Representatives from Year 10 th station have visited us to give a talk regarding went to Durning Hall on Tuesday, 10 cyberIn addition bullying; to this, the of�icers consequences, from the after local affects police November 2015, to participate in a programme and legal action that can be taken. Week 2015 about domestic violence. It was organised by the Metropolitan Police and we found it very Moreover, we have been raising money as a I am a school council representative from 9A. motivational. There were many important and So far the school council has been great. We inspirational speakers, including MPs, like taken place in Cumbria, north-west England. have been involved in many things. Stephen Timms, and members of related Oneschool person for thehas storm/�loodbeen found dead, that 45,000 has recently prop- organisations, like Newham Asian Women’s erties are without electricity and approximate- Recently we had anti-bullying week and it was Project (NAWP) and Skills Rethink, as well as - a great opportunity for our school to come the police. They all spoke about how common ing the storm. The storm has been named together. For anti-bullying week we organised domestic violence is, and what is being done to Stormly 4,881 Desmond. properties Both have class been councillors �looded infollow each a cake bake sale in order to raise money for tackle it. form have received a blue tin to collect their future events and campaigns that the school classmates donations. The form class which council will hold. However, perhaps the most powerful speeches will collect the highest amount of money will were those made by two survivors of domestic obtain recognition from the school. Maryam Haskic, Year 9A abuse. Hearing real, personal stories shook us

Nureeya Khan, Year 7G being done to abolish this atrocity. A statement fromand showed one of us those the signi�icance women that of allparticularly the work

it not only applies to domestic abuse, but to any situationstruck me in was life. “You We make should the change,”make an because effort, stand up for what is right; not just wait for it to happen without any endeavour of our own.

gift bags to end the event. Winning the big prize wasFinally, great there fun! was a raf�le and we all received

By Sabah Athar, Year 10A

Page 40 al-qalam

Our term in pictures...

Page 41 al-qalam

Student Awards - End of Autumn Term 2015

Maths

Year 7:

Aissha Yunus Jasat 7G, Hanifa Anwar 7G, Nimo Mohamed, Tasmim Matin 7G, Taybah Altaf Year7A, Tanjila 8: Khan 7A, Umaiyyah Jahan 7G Choudhury 8A, Amathullah 8A, Saibah Uddin Saba Jamil 8S, Sabeehah Sultanah 9G, Jumanah Hussain 8G, Anjuma Begum 8A, Arnika Year 9: Zaynab Khatun 9A, Faheemah Ali, Homairah Akhter 9A, Maimoona Wadilwala 9G, Tasnem Akthar 9A, Samiha Ishrat

Year 10: Sana Hussain 10A, Asma Khan, Aishah Shahzad, Sabah Athar 10A, Sumaya, Mahak Polani 10A

Year 11: Nusaybah Molvi Habibah Khanom 11A, Marjana Ferduos, Khadija Musaddiq, Rameen Zul�iqar 11A, English

Year 7: Khadija Tafader 7A

Year 8: NusraMaryam Fatima Deedat Sajeel 7G, Nureeya8S, Umara Anjum Kashif Jannah 8S, Resham Khan 7G,Zahir, Faiza Maryam Saeed, Shakirah Miah 8A

Year 9:

Year 10:Zainab Tamanna Abdulalim Kalam 10G,9G, Esha Nahda Kamran Tahsin 9G, 10G, Jamila Tahmina Kasuma Begum, 9G, Fatimah Safa Waseem10G Ilyas Patel 9G

Year 11: Median Adam 11A, Homaira Patel 11G, Kainat Alam 11G, Zahra Abrar 11G

Science

Year 7:

Year 8: HanaanAmina Hisck, Al-Faradhi Janna 8A, Zaman Zeynab 7G, MiahNahida 8S, Ali Tamanna 7G, Amina Akhtar Abdi Roof 8G, Sumayyah Abbas Taj 8S, Suhayfa Said Mohammed 8S, Aisha Zulekha

Year 9: Mary, Dhiyaa Hayaat Ahmed 9A, Maryam Raza 9G, Aaiza Mariyam Butt

Year 10: Zaynab Mufti Shilpa khanom, Moriam Abedin 10G, Jiniya Al-Mamun 10A, Razeenah Ramtally 10A, Year 11:

Ruqayyah Bashir, Lut�iya Ali 11A, Ahlam Habib 11G, Aazra Ahmed Page 42 Azhar Academy School 235a Romford Road, Forest Gate, London, E7 9HL T: 020 8553 8384 www.aags.org.uk