Potomac Stories

Grade 7 art students used their powers of imagination and observational drawing skills to invent new creatures of the Animal Kingdom – the Chimeras. These mythological creatures are composed from one animal that lives in water, one animal that flies, and one animal that lives on land.

Using reference books from the art classroom, students made careful, realistic pencil studies of many different animals in their sketchbooks. Through that exercise, each seventh grader had to be aware of the basic shapes of each form, proportion, value, and texture. Next, to meet the parameters of our project, the students chose three very different animals and combined them into their unique chimeras, which are currently on view in the IS first-floor hallway. Ask our students about theirs! View a sample flock of chimeras. 

This past Friday, Chinese 1B students went on a field trip to the Great Wall Chinese Supermarket, where they participated in a scavenger hunt, interviewed customers, and enjoyed traditional Chinese food. The trip concluded with a visit to Yifang Tea House, where students enjoyed bubble tea. This hands-on experience gave the students a fun and immersive way to connect with Chinese culture and language. 

Grade 8 students completed their IS Art experience by creating spectacular self-portrait weavings. You can enjoy their finished products on display in the IS hallway! 

Grade 7 science students completed their taxonomy unit by identifying 10 fish species (samples obtained at the DC Maine Street fish market). Flounder, rockfish, and blue catfish were easy to identify, while sea bass and mackerel were more challenging!

On Monday, IS French students welcomed the winter season by singing “Vive le Vent” (“Jingle Bells”) and spreading holiday cheer as they caroled through MS and LS hallways. They then offered lunchtime entertainment for younger students, who enjoyed a special French luncheon—a feast of crêpes, quiches, jambon-fromage, and other traditional fare prepared by parents and teachers. Un grand merci à Mesdames Barbee et Potter for their organization and leadership. Bonne Année et Merci à tous!

Last Wednesday was Community Action Day in the IS. Seventh grade students and advisors visited a recycling center, built trails on campus, and considered how they could lead Potomac’s recycling effort across campus. The eighth grade students and advisors engaged in meaningful work at various community partners across the DMV and came together for the first Sandwich Day of the year back on campus! Congratulations and thanks to all IS students and teachers for embodying a true generosity of spirit. See photos from the day.