Richard Zhang
20/3/25
Introduction
The purpose of my conference is to show you the progress and growth I have made in the past term. I would like to share my learning journey at school and the interesting experiences I’ve had along the way. This meeting is significant because it gives me the opportunity to present my highlights and achievements directly to you, instead of through my teachers.
I’d like to share:
- What I’ve done and what I still want to achieve
- Some areas of growth, struggles, and examples of my work
- My goals and how I plan to achieve them
I look forward to discussing these points with you and reflecting on my experiences this year!
My Vision Board
Some of the things included on my vision board are:
- Academic Excellence: Aiming for high grades in all subjects, especially in areas I find challenging, like organization and feedback reception.
- Creative Expression: Pursuing opportunities for creative writing and engaging in projects that allow me to showcase my imagination and storytelling skills.
- Physical Fitness: Committing to regular participation in sports, like badminton, to improve my physical health and teamwork skills.
- Personal Growth: Focusing on developing my critical thinking skills and becoming more open to constructive feedback to support my overall growth.
These are important because they represent my aspirations for personal and academic success, helping me to stay motivated and focused on achieving my goals.
My Goals Are:
- Complete Homework More Efficiently: I aim to finish my homework faster, which will help me save time and allow for more opportunities to engage in other activities and interests.
- Enhance Claim, Evidence, Reasoning (CER) Skills: I want to improve my ability to construct clear and compelling arguments using the CER framework, which will strengthen my writing and analytical skills in all subjects.
- Improve Sustained Attention: I strive to develop better focus and sustained attention during class and while studying, which will enhance my learning and retention of information.
Evidence of how I have started to make progress toward my goals
Transdisciplinary Transfer Goal (TTG)
The TTG I chose to reflect upon throughout the year is the ability to apply critical thinking across various subjects and real-life situations. This goal has helped me make connections between different areas of learning and develop a deeper understanding of the material.
Artifact 1: Critical Thinking
In our social studies unit on World War I, I had the opportunity to engage in a simulation that required critical thinking. I had to analyze various historical perspectives and make decisions that affected the outcome of our scenario. This experience challenged me to weigh the consequences of my choices, consider multiple viewpoints, and justify my reasoning to my peers. Through this process, I learned how to dissect complex information and develop well-rounded arguments. This artifact demonstrates my ability to apply critical thinking skills, as I not only understood the historical context but also actively participated in discussions that deepened my comprehension of the material.
Artifact 2: Communication
In our English class, I completed a group project where we presented on a literary theme. My role was to communicate our analysis effectively to the class. I collaborated with my teammates to create a clear and engaging presentation, ensuring that each member’s insights were incorporated. This experience highlighted the importance of effective communication in conveying complex ideas. I learned how to articulate my thoughts in a way that was accessible to my audience, using visual aids and storytelling techniques to enhance our message. This artifact reflects my growth in communication skills, showcasing how I can express my ideas clearly and work collaboratively to achieve a common goal.
These artifacts represent my journey in enhancing my critical thinking and communication skills, demonstrating my active engagement with my transdisciplinary goal and my commitment to personal growth.
Core Subject: Math 🧮
I will now share my progress in Math…
Strengths
- Multiplying fractions
- Ratios
- Finding patterns
Areas of Growth
- Showing my work
- Using units
- Converting units
Artifact 1 – The Before and AfterMy Goals for Student Led Conferences
Artefact 1 – IXL
My growth in mathematics was significantly enhanced through dedicated math classes and the use of IXL, an online learning platform. Initially struggling with concepts like algebra and geometry, I began to gain confidence as I engaged with interactive lessons and practice problems tailored to my individual needs. The structured feedback from IXL allowed me to identify specific areas for improvement, while the classroom environment fostered collaboration with peers and support from the teacher. Over time, the combination of targeted practice and real-time assessments led to a deeper understanding of mathematical principles, culminating in improved grades and a newfound enthusiasm for learning math. This journey not only developed my skills but also instilled a belief in my ability to tackle challenging problems.
Artefact 2 – Desmos Classroom
My growth in mathematics flourished through engaging math classes and interactive Desmos activities. Initially grappling with topics such as linear equations and geometric transformations, I found a new level of understanding as they participated in Desmos-based lessons. These activities allowed them to visualize mathematical concepts dynamically, making abstract ideas more concrete. By manipulating graphs and experimenting with variables, I discovered the relationships between equations and their graphical representations. The collaborative nature of group activities further enhanced their learning experience, as I shared insights and strategies with classmates. Over the course of the year, this combination of hands-on exploration and guided instruction transformed my confidence and skills, turning math from a source of anxiety into an exciting challenge I was eager to embrace.
Core Subject: Science 🧪
I will now share my progress in Science…
Strengths
- Gathering evidence
- Interpreting evidence
- Making predictions
- Working in a group
Areas of Growth
- Following the lab directions
- Time management
Evidence of Organisation
Artifact 1 – The Before and AfterMy Goals for Student Led Conferences
Evidence of Active Learning Habits
This is my active learner self assessment, it shows where I think I currently am in different learning skills and the targets I have made for the next term to improve these learning skills. My growth in science has been significantly influenced by my engagement in class and my use of the self-assessing active learner descriptor. At the beginning of the year, I found it challenging to stay organized and focused, often feeling overwhelmed by the amount of material. However, by regularly reflecting on my performance and setting specific goals, I began to see improvements. For instance, I learned the importance of preparing for assessments ahead of time, which helped me consistently score well. I also focused on contributing to group discussions, pushing myself to ask questions and share my ideas. This practice not only enhanced my understanding of the material but also made me feel more confident in my abilities. As I worked on my previous goal of better participation, I noticed that my positive attitude and persistence paid off, leading to a more fulfilling learning experience. Now, I’m excited to tackle my new goal of improving my CER writing skills, aiming to achieve high scores consistently. This journey has taught me the value of self-reflection and the impact it has on my growth as a learner.
Artefact 1 – Burgos Climate Presentation
In science, I presented a power point presentation to my group on the climate of the Spanish city of Burgos. In the past few weeks, I researched many different aspects of the environment and climate in Burgos and formed my own understanding of this subject through extensive research and empirical data. I showed different factors that are effecting the climate in Burgos and how the changes of these factors due to global warming may affect Burgos’s climate. There were clear visuals in the presentation and the information was presented clearly. This task has improved my presenting and public speaking skills and deepened my understanding of Burgos’s climate and the factors that effect climates in general. As this is the second presentation, I fixed many of the problems in the first one and made the presentation more interesting while still using reliable empirical data to back up my ideas.
Artefact 2 – Amur Leopard Presentation
This was our first science presentation that we presented as a group. We researched a species that was endangered, Amur leopards, and showed our findings in the presentation. We discussed special traits Amur leopards have and showed its population changes in the past century. We also predicted the possible population of Amur leopards in future years if humans chose to intervene or not. Though I was initially anxious about having to present to the whole class, I was mostly confident in the presentation and presented in the information clearly. However since this is out first presentation in science, there are still many things that can be improved on.
Core Subject: Language Arts 📖
I will now share my progress in Language Arts…Artifact 1 – The Before and AfterMy Goals for Student Led Conferences
Artefact 1 – Reading Reflection Essay
My growth in English Language Arts (ELA) was significantly shaped by our classes and the ethical dilemma essay I wrote about the struggles between honesty and loyalty. At first, I found it challenging to articulate my thoughts on complex moral issues, but as we explored various literary works and their themes, I began to develop a deeper understanding of these concepts. Writing the essay pushed me to analyze characters and their choices, which helped me see how honesty and loyalty often conflict in real life. I drew from stories like “Secret Samantha” and “The Difficult Path,” reflecting on how the protagonists navigated their dilemmas. This process not only improved my writing skills but also encouraged me to think critically about my own values. By the time I finished the essay, I felt more confident in expressing my ideas and beliefs, realizing that understanding the balance between being true to oneself and being loyal to others is essential. This experience in ELA taught me the power of words and the importance of self-reflection, helping me grow both as a writer and as an individual.
Artefact 2 – Netflix Story Final Scene
My growth in English Language Arts (ELA) was greatly influenced by our classes and the assignment to write a scene from a romantic novel. Initially, I struggled to convey emotions effectively and create compelling characters. However, as we studied various literary techniques and explored character development, I began to understand how to express feelings through words. Writing a romantic scene allowed me to tap into my own experiences and emotions, making the characters feel more relatable and authentic. I vividly imagined a moment where two characters, caught in a whirlwind of emotions, finally confess their feelings for each other. As I wrote about their nervousness and excitement, I felt my own heart race, just like when I had to share my writing in class. This assignment not only improved my writing skills but also deepened my appreciation for storytelling, teaching me how to craft meaningful connections between characters and readers.
Core Subject: Social Studies 🌏
I will now share my progress in Social Studies…Artifact 1 – The Before and AfterMy Goals for Student Led Conferences
Artefact 1 – Social Studies Debate
In Social Studies, there was a unit dedicated to different opinions and views in early autumn. We learned more about different opinions people hold and the reasons people may form such opinions. The final project involved us researching a topic with a partner and eventually debating for or against the prompt. Our debate topic was “Cancel Culture”, and we debated against it. We listed many reasons why it could cause serious problems in society including censoring different opinions, forcing people to embrace values and ideas they disagree with, and causing mental health problems for the “cancelled”. Our clear points encouraged the audience members and judges to all vote for us signalling a successful debate. Through out the whole project we learn a lot, researching different facts and opinions online, improving our confidence in public speech, etc. This was truly a special and memorable learning experience.
Artefact 2 – WWI Impact Analysis Essay
The second artefact was produced in the WW1 unit before Christmas. In the unit we learned about the historic events that led to WW1, events that happened during “the great war” and the effects of those events after the war. Most importantly, we also explored the mechanics of war time strategies through a fun and meaningful interactive simulation. Towards the end of the unit we explored the lessons that can be learned through this tragic war. The final project was an analysis of WW1 effects, many that still impact countries and communities to the day. I researched the effects of the Austrian Hungarian Empire dissolving on the Balkan peninsula and how it effected future conflicts in the region. I discovered that the population in the Balkan peninsula is very ethnically diverse and different ethnic groups often attempt to seize power or control over other ethnic groups, leading to tensions and wars. I eventually traced even further back to when the Ottomans controlled the Balkans. After the new nations gained independence from the turks they began to have conflicts with each other. Leading to the first Balkan war, the second Balkan war, World War 1, World War 2, and the Yugoslav Wars all fought in this region with in a century. These wars ended millions of Balkan lives. These tragic events present the problems multi ethnic societies may have. This project was very interesting and special to me as I was able to analysis reasons wars occur and their effect while also developing my own understanding and idea of the tragedy of wars.
EnCore: 🧘🏻♀️
I will now share my progress in…Artifact 1 – The Before and AfterMy Goals for Student Led Conferences
Chinese
Artefact 1 – Chinese Family Relationship Essay
This essay is an essay about family relationships and I explored the different phases in my relationship with my grandfather. Though we had some conflicts, we were able to improve our relationship after his hospitalization.
In the Chinese language course, integrating themes of family relationships and emotional education can enhance students’ understanding of cultural nuances and improve their language skills. By using narratives like the one about the complicated relationship with Grandfather, students can explore complex emotions and relationships in a Chinese context.
By incorporating family relationships and emotional education into a Chinese course, students not only enhance their language proficiency but also develop essential life skills that foster deeper connections with others. This approach enriches the learning experience and prepares students for more nuanced interactions in Chinese-speaking environments.
Artefact 2 – Chinese History Power Point Presentation
What assistance does the task you have chosen provide for your Chinese language learning? How does it enhance your understanding of the Chinese language and culture?
This presentation required me to complete extensive research into Chinese history and present my findings to the class through a Power Point Presentation. It has improved my Chinese researching skills and Chinese presentation skills, especially for a larger audience. I have learned a lot during the research process about a famous emperor in Chinese history, Qing Shi Huang and the culture of Qing dynasty China.
During the completion of this task, how did you overcome challenges? What progress do you believe you have made in problem-solving and coping with difficulties?
It was difficult to motivate myself consistently during the presentation preparation phase as I was working alone. I eventually took some small “brain breaks” and was able to constrain my self to completing this task. I did most of this presentation completely by myself which was a challenge but also also allowed to develop independent research skills and public speaking skills. I used to be alightly afraid of presenting in front of classes fearing mistakes but this was an opportunity I capitalised on conquering and defeating those fears.
What new knowledge or skills have you acquired from this task? How do these knowledge or skills impact your Chinese language learning?
I learnt new knowledge about Chinese history and have developed my Chinese public speaking skills. Learning culture is always a very important part of learning languages as it helps me understand the cultural and societal norms of China and famous ancient quotes that are still used by many today. Being able to speak confidently in front of an audience is important as presentations may be common and presenting well is a life skill to learn.
What part of this task are you most proud of? Why? In what areas do you feel there is still room for improvement or strengthening?
I am proud of the visuals and presentation I presented as it was clear and could allow the audience to adopt a deeper understanding of Chinese history. I believe I could present louder in the presentation to engage the audience and to encourage them to develop and interest in the topic.
Through completing this task, what insights have you gained regarding your learning methods or motivation? How do you plan to utilise this understanding to improve your performance in learning Chinese?
I have now realised that choosing a topic I truly love would help me gain motivation in completing the task. In the future, I would utilise this knowledge and improve my Chinese learning by researching topics of interest when given the choice to do so. This will allow more effective Chinese learning.
Drama
Artefact 1 – Dramaturgical Statement
In drama class, my growth is significantly marked by my deepening understanding of the true themes and purposes of theatrical works, particularly through the lens of Brechtian theatre. Initially approaching performance with a focus on emotional connection and character immersion, I began to grasp Brecht’s revolutionary techniques aimed at provoking critical thought and audience engagement. Through research and practical application, I learned to appreciate the importance of breaking the fourth wall, using direct addresses, and incorporating symbolic elements into my performances. This understanding allowed me to create a dramaturgical statement that articulated how their adaptation of “The Three Little Pigs” would challenge societal norms and values. By reimagining the pigs as representations of different social classes and employing minimalist set designs, I effectively conveyed complex ideas about privilege and hard work. As I crafted my script, I embraced Brecht’s techniques to foster dialogue and reflection among the audience, ultimately transforming my approach to drama from mere performance to a powerful tool for social commentary.
Artefact 2 – Drama Design Workbook
My growth in drama is significantly enhanced through active participation in drama classes and the use of a comprehensive drama workbook to document my theatrical journey. Initially hesitant about expressing myself on stage, I began to develop confidence as I engaged in various exercises and collaborative performances. The drama workbook became an invaluable tool, allowing me to record my thoughts, reflections, and insights on character development, script analysis, and performance techniques. By reflecting on my experiences and incorporating feedback from peers and instructors, I gained a deeper understanding of dramatic principles and the importance of collaboration in theatre. This process not only sharpened my acting skills but also fostered critical thinking and creativity, transforming my approach to drama from mere performance to a thoughtful exploration of storytelling and character. Ultimately, the combination of hands-on learning and reflective practice helped me emerge as a more confident and expressive performer, eager to tackle new challenges in the world of theatre.
PE
Artefact 1 – Football
In 8th grade, my growth in physical education (PE) really shone through during our football unit. In the beginning, I struggled with basic skills like dribbling and passing, often feeling intimidated by my more experienced classmates. However, as the unit progressed, I received constructive feedback from my teacher and encouragement from my peers, which really boosted my confidence. With consistent practice and teamwork, I not only improved my technical skills but also developed a better understanding of game strategies and sportsmanship. The collaborative environment helped me forge friendships and a sense of belonging, motivating me to push my limits. By the end of the unit, I transformed from a hesitant participant into an enthusiastic player, eager to engage in games and contribute to my team’s success. This experience not only enhanced my physical abilities but also instilled a lifelong appreciation for teamwork and healthy competition in sports.
Artefact 2 – Badminton
In 8th grade, my growth in physical education (PE) became particularly evident during our badminton unit. At first, I found myself struggling to master the basic skills, like serving and returning the shuttlecock, often feeling frustrated when I couldn’t keep up with my classmates. However, as we progressed, I started to receive helpful tips from my teacher and encouragement from my friends, which motivated me to practice more. With each lesson, I began to improve my technique and build my confidence. I learned the importance of strategy and positioning on the court, which made the game even more enjoyable. By the end of the unit, I transformed from a hesitant player into someone who eagerly looked forward to games, excited to challenge myself and work with my teammates. This experience not only enhanced my badminton skills but also deepened my appreciation for teamwork and sportsmanship in every match we played.
Health
Artefact 1 – Happify App
My growth in health became evident through my participation in health classes and my use of the Happify app over a period of time. At first, I struggled to understand the importance of mental well-being and how it connected to my overall health. However, health classes introduced me to various concepts, and using Happify allowed me to apply what I learned in a practical way. The app encouraged me to set personal goals and complete activities that promoted positive thinking and emotional health. I appreciated the reminders it sent, prompting me to reflect on my feelings and engage in activities that fostered connections with others. As I interacted with the app, I noticed I was becoming more open to making new friends and expressing my thoughts. The surveys and reflections helped me understand my emotions better, almost like having a supportive friend who listened without judgment. By consistently using Happify alongside my health lessons, I felt more in control of my mental health, developed healthier habits, and gained a deeper appreciation for the importance of both mental and physical well-being.
Artefact 2 – Depression Presentation
My growth in health was significantly enhanced through our health classes, particularly when we focused on mental health and created a presentation about depression. Initially, I had a limited understanding of what depression really was and how it affected my peers and myself. However, as we delved into the topic, I conducted thorough research using credible sources, which opened my eyes to the prevalence of depression among adolescents and the various factors that contribute to it. I learned that 1 in 8 children experience anxiety, and many do not receive the help they need [1]. This knowledge motivated me to create a presentation that not only informed my classmates about the signs and symptoms of depression but also emphasized the importance of seeking help and supporting one another. Through this project, I developed my research and presentation skills, and I felt a sense of responsibility to raise awareness about mental health issues. By the end of the unit, I was more confident in discussing mental health topics and felt empowered to advocate for myself and others, knowing that understanding and addressing these issues is crucial for our overall well-being.
My Strengths 💪🏻
Some of my key strengths include:
- Prioritization: I am adept at determining which tasks are most critical. This skill allows me to focus on what truly matters, helping me stay organized and efficient in my studies.
- Creativity: I possess a strong sense of creativity, which enables me to generate innovative ideas and approaches in my projects and assignments. This helps me stand out and engage more deeply with my work.
- Critical Thinking: I am good at analyzing information and drawing connections between concepts. This strength enhances my ability to tackle complex problems and contribute meaningfully to class discussions.
- Resilience: I demonstrate persistence in overcoming challenges. When faced with setbacks, I stay committed to my goals and seek solutions, which has greatly improved my learning experience.
Areas for Growth
While I have identified strengths, there are several skills I would like to develop further:
- Participation in Class Discussions: While I contribute to group work, I would like to be more proactive in sharing my ideas during whole-class discussions. Speaking up more often will enhance my learning and encourage others to do the same.
- Organization: I often struggle with keeping track of multiple deadlines and project details. I aim to improve my organizational skills to ensure I manage my time more effectively and meet all my commitments.
- Openness to Feedback: I want to become more receptive to constructive criticism. Embracing feedback will help me refine my work and grow as a learner, particularly in areas like my CER writing skills.
Highlights of the year:
My favourite lessons, moments, activities, days of the year were…because…
- The Ethical Dilemma Essay: Writing this essay was a highlight because it allowed me to explore complex themes of honesty and loyalty. Engaging with literature helped me reflect on my own values and improved my critical thinking skills.
- The Badminton Unit in P.E.: I loved participating in the badminton unit because it pushed me to improve my physical skills while also teaching me about teamwork and sportsmanship. It was rewarding to see my progress and gain confidence on the court.
- Group Science Projects: Collaborating with my classmates on science projects was a memorable experience. It not only enhanced my understanding of the material but also strengthened my communication and teamwork skills, making learning more enjoyable.
- World War I Simulation in Social Studies: The simulation was a highlight because it allowed me to step into the shoes of historical figures and experience the complexities of wartime decisions. It brought history to life and made me appreciate the impact of individual choices during that era.
- Creative Writing Assignments: I found great joy in the creative writing assignments we completed in English Language Arts. They allowed me to express my imagination and creativity, providing a wonderful outlet for my thoughts and ideas.
These experiences enriched my learning and contributed to my growth as a student, making this year truly memorable.
Conclusion
Thank you for listening to my progress towards my goals over the last year. Throughout this time, I’ve developed valuable skills in critical thinking, teamwork, and creativity, particularly highlighted by projects like the World War I simulation and my writing assignments. I’ve also identified areas for growth, such as improving my organizational skills and becoming more receptive to feedback. Overall, this year has been a journey of learning and personal development. I appreciate the opportunity to reflect on these experiences. Do you have any questions?
