Ekya Summer Stories – Purvi’s Poetry
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Ms. Purvi from Ekya School ITPL wrote to us, as part of our summer stories submission, telling us that she hadn’t been to any place in particular but she spent her summer writing poetry which she wishes to share with us. Here are some of her endearing collection of poems:
Stars
Stars are tiny and shiny
Stars always twinkle
They are in different shapes and
they look so different like us
Stars form up to different
constellations
Sun is also a star
Flowers
Flowers flowers are everywhere
They bloom like beauty
They never lose their brightness
Flowers make the environment beautiful
All beautiful flowers are around us
like lotus, rose, marigold and tulips
We will be good
We will be good all the time
Because we are quite
And we listen to the teacher
And we never break the rules
And we be kind to others
And we share everything to others
And we don’t hurt anyone
And we finish our work very fast and neat
And we should help everybody around
Us and we should listen to everybody
You should try
You should try for everything you do
And you don’t fail
And don’t forget one thing you should try and try and try
And try your best to win a race or competition
And don’t be sad when you don’t win
Try your best next time to win
And don’t forget another thing
Don’t think you cannot do it
You should try and try and try and try and try
Rain
Rain come, come, come
You are the best creature of the earth
You make that you make this you it beautiful
Everyone likes your skill and smell
Plants like your water, birds dance,
Humans dance
First make it wet then muddy
Then waterfall
You are one of the best waterfalls
Rain, rain come come
Want to read more of our summer stories?
Here is Urja’s account on the digital detox camp she attended in the month of April.
Ridha and Varnit narrate their trip to Srilanka with their mothers and friends.
Ayush Murthy speaks about his trip to Italy in April.
Ahaana visited her Ajja and Ajji, Mihika missed all her teachers, Dhrithi learned to swim and Misha was in awe of Dubai. Enjoy a collection of stories from our children from their summer break.
Explore more
Ekya / July 26, 2024
Guide to Conquer the IPMAT Entrance Exam
The Integrated Program in Management Aptitude Test (IPMAT) is a significant stepping stone for undergraduate aspirants aiming to carve a niche in the business management realm. Initiated by IIM Indore and now adopted by several other IIMs, IPMAT serves as a gateway for young students to enter prestigious management institutes directly after high school.
At Ekya Schools, we recognise the importance of early preparation for such competitive exams. We partnered with an esteemed institution like Career Launcher to provide our senior students with top-notch entrance exam coaching. This strategic collaboration ensures that our students are well-equipped not only to face the IPMAT but also to excel in it.
IPMAT Selection Process
Navigating through the IPMAT selection process is crucial for candidates aiming to secure a place in the Integrated Programme in Management (IPM). This multi-stage process not only tests your academic prowess but also your ability to perform under pressure and showcase your personality traits during interviews. Here's a detailed walkthrough of the selection stages from the initial aptitude test to the final admission offer, emphasising the necessity of achieving high scores and excelling at the personal interview.
Understanding IPMAT and the Integrated Program in Management (IPM)
The Integrated Program in Management (IPM) serves as a prominent pathway into the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) for students immediately after completing their 12th grade. Originally pioneered by IIM Indore, this forward-thinking initiative has since been embraced by four additional IIMs—Rohtak, Ranchi, Bodh Gaya, and Jammu. The IPM merges a Bachelor's Degree in Management with an MBA into a single five-year program, although it allows students the flexibility to exit after the first three years with just an undergraduate degree. Given its wide-reaching appeal across various educational backgrounds and its high esteem within the professional community, management continues to be a top career choice for many aspiring students. The IPM's inclusive, stream-neutral approach makes it an attractive option for those keen to delve into the world of management. To secure admission into these programs, aspiring candidates must successfully clear one of three entrance exams: IPMAT Indore, IPMAT Rohtak, or JIPMAT. Each of these exams is designed to meet the specific admission requirements of the respective IIMs. At Ekya Schools, we believe in going beyond textbook learning to guide our students toward fulfilling careers that align with their passions and interests. Our College and Career Guidance provides a closer look at how we offer personalised guidance and strategic planning to help students navigate their future academic and career paths effectively.IPMAT Eligibility Criteria - Gearing Up For Success
To be eligible for the IPMAT entrance test, you will need to meet specific age and academic qualifications requirements. The age limit is typically 20 years for the General and NC-OBC categories, with a relaxation of 5 years for SC/ST/PwD candidates. In terms of education, you must have passed your Class 10 and 12 board exams (or equivalent) in 2023, and 2024, or be appearing for them in 2025. While the minimum percentage requirement might be confirmed closer to the exam date, it's wise to start preparing early in your senior school years to ensure you meet any potential benchmarks and have ample time to refine your skills for the IPMAT. By beginning early, you can develop a strong foundation in areas like quantitative and verbal abilities, giving you a competitive edge come exam day.Exam Format and Syllabus
As we progress from discussing eligibility criteria, our focus shifts to the core components of the IPMAT: its exam format and syllabus. Mastery of these elements is crucial for developing an effective preparation plan and excelling in this rigorous test. The IPMAT is structured as a computer-based test (CBT) and is divided into three key sections, which include:
IPMAT Selection Process
Navigating through the IPMAT selection process is crucial for candidates aiming to secure a place in the Integrated Programme in Management (IPM). This multi-stage process not only tests your academic prowess but also your ability to perform under pressure and showcase your personality traits during interviews. Here's a detailed walkthrough of the selection stages from the initial aptitude test to the final admission offer, emphasising the necessity of achieving high scores and excelling at the personal interview.
IPMAT Selection Process Overview
The selection process for IPMAT typically involves the following steps: Step 1: Online Application Submission Candidates must first meet the basic eligibility criteria and then submit their applications through the institute's official website. Step 2: Aptitude Test Eligible candidates are invited to take the IPMAT, which includes sections on Quantitative Ability and Verbal Ability to assess mathematical and language skills. Step 3: Score Validation Post-exam, an eligibility check is conducted to ensure candidates have scored positively in all sections of the test. Step 4: Conducting Personal Assessments Candidates who pass the eligibility check proceed to the Personal Assessment round, which may include a Written Ability Test (WAT) and a Personal Interview (PI). This stage evaluates the candidates' communication skills, problem-solving abilities, and overall suitability for the program. Step 5: Final Selection The final step involves the creation of a merit list based on a Composite Score, which considers performances in both the Aptitude Test and the Personal Assessment.
Key Points to Note:
- The IPMAT Indore scores are accepted at various important institutions including IIM Ranchi, IIFT, and NALSAR University of Law.
- Candidates need to achieve positive raw scores and meet the minimum mark requirements in each of the three sections of the aptitude test to be considered for the personal interview stage.
- The final merit list is prepared based on the composite score, which considers the candidate's performance across all stages of the selection process.
Preparation Strategies For IPMAT
Cracking the IPMAT is a challenge, but the rewards are immense. It's the gateway to a prestigious management program, and the right preparation can make the difference between success and disappointment. This section lays out a roadmap for your journey, helping you attend the exam with confidence and achieve your goals.- Understand the Exam Pattern and Syllabus: Begin by familiarising yourself with the detailed structure and syllabus of the IPMAT. Understanding the weightage of different sections and types of questions will help you allocate your study time effectively.
- Create a Structured Study Plan: Develop a comprehensive study plan that covers all topics systematically. Divide your time between learning new concepts, practising questions, and revising. Stick to your schedule diligently to ensure consistent progress.
- Focus on Fundamentals: Strong foundational knowledge, especially in quantitative and verbal sections, is crucial. Ensure you have a firm grasp of basic concepts before moving on to more complex problems.
- Practice Regularly: Consistent practice is key to success in IPMAT. Solve previous years’ question papers and take mock tests to familiarise yourself with the exam’s format and timing. This will also help identify your strengths and areas for improvement.
- Enhance Time Management Skills: Time management can make or break your exam performance. Practice completing sections within the allotted time to improve your speed and accuracy. Learn to prioritise questions based on your strengths.
- Work on Verbal and Written Communication: For the verbal ability section and any subsequent interviews or written tests, enhance your reading, speaking, and writing skills. Regular reading and practising essay writing can be very beneficial.
- Seek Guidance When Needed: If you find certain areas particularly challenging, consider seeking help from teachers, or mentors, or joining a coaching institute. Sometimes, external guidance can provide new perspectives and strategies that streamline your preparation.
- Stay Informed and Updated: Keep yourself updated with any changes in the exam pattern or dates and regularly check the official website for any announcements.
- Maintain Physical and Mental Health: Lastly, balanced preparation includes taking care of your physical and mental health. Regular exercise, proper nutrition, and adequate sleep will help you maintain peak performance during your preparation journey.
Ekya / May 08, 2024
15 English Language Mistakes That You Should Avoid
Although English is a funny language, it has become a global language. It is one of the highest-speaking languages in the world. And to effectively communicate in English is crucial in today’s time. For students, parents, and professionals alike, speaking English confidently and correctly is a necessary skill.
However, speaking in English can be tough, especially for beginners. It takes confidence and knowledge to put sentences together and express your ideas in a language that might not feel comfortable yet. Even as you get better, there are still some common errors in the English language that can sneak into your speech. Most of them aren't a big deal, but sometimes they can cause misunderstandings.
As one of the best CBSE Schools in Bangalore, we’ve identified fifteen common English language mistakes and give you tips on how to fix them, so your next conversation can go more smoothly.
Not Speaking Enough
One common mistake is not speaking English enough. Many students feel shy to speak English at first, but speaking is one of the best ways to improve your command over the language. Imagine a cricket player who only watches others play but never picks up a bat themselves. They would never get better. The same goes for English. So, don't be afraid to use your voice. Talk with friends, ask questions to teachers in English, or even practice speaking to yourself. The more you speak, the better you'll get.Translating from Your Native Language
A common error in the English language many students make is trying to directly translate their thoughts from their native language into English. This is a problem because translations are rarely exact and it takes longer for your brain to do the work. Even if your English is basic, don't worry. Use the expressions and phrases you have learned. Practice using new expressions so they become a part of your regular vocabulary..Emphasizing The Wrong Syllable
Another tricky English language error is emphasizing the wrong syllable. It's like singing a song out of tune. For example, "import" is pronounced as "im-PORT" not "IM-port." Another one is "address" which is pronounced as "a-DRESS" not "AD-dress." These little changes in emphasis can change the meaning of words and make it hard for others to understand. To improve this, listen carefully to your teachers and make note of how they say the word. The best ICSE schools in Bangalore prioritize proper syllable emphasis in spoken and written English, incorporating it into the grammar lessons. Additionally, you can watch English movies, sitcoms, or cartoons to mimic how they emphasize the syllable.Pronouncing Sounds That Aren’t There
Pronouncing sounds that aren't there is a common mistake in English. It happens when we add extra sounds to words. For example, saying "aks" instead of "ask". To avoid this, we need to pronounce words correctly and not add any extra or unnecessary sounds.Overuse of “Will” for Future
This is one of the most common English grammar mistakes. A lot of students rely too much on the word “will” when composing future sentences. While it may seem like the easiest option, using the more versatile structure of "going to + base form" is actually more appropriate in many situations. "Will" is best suited for promises, spontaneous decisions, predictions, and future actions beyond the speaker's control. However, when discussing plans for the future, it is more accurate to use "going to". For instance, instead of saying "Tomorrow I will go to the bank," it is correct to say "Tomorrow I am going to the bank."Adding Unnecessary Words and Missing Necessary Words
Another common English Grammar mistakes that students often make are adding unnecessary words or leaving out necessary ones. These errors can make sentences sound confusing or change their meaning completely. For example, saying "I am agree with you" is incorrect because the verb "agree" doesn't need the helping verb "am" before it. On the other hand, forgetting a necessary word can also lead to problems. For instance, saying "I looking for a bus to the city center" is incorrect because the word "am" is missing. When talking about something happening right now, we use the Present Continuous tense by adding "am," "is," or "are" before the verb, along with the suffix "-ing." So, a correct version of the sentence would be "I am looking for a bus to the city center." Remember, it's important to use the correct words and structure so that your meaning is clear.Saying Incorrect Negative Sentences
Students often make mistakes when forming negative sentences. For instance, saying “I no like pizza" instead of "I don't like pizza." In the Present Simple, to create a negative sentence, we need to use "don't" or "doesn't" before the verb. It's also important to remember that after "he," "she," or "it," we should use "doesn't" and remove the "-s" ending from the verb. For example, instead of saying "He's not wanting to go," the correct phrasing is "He doesn't want to go."- Using the Wrong Word Order in Questions
Not Using Adverbs
Many beginners don’t use adverbs in their speech. Adverbs are words that describe verbs, adjectives, and other adverbs. They add more details to a sentence and make it more interesting. For example, instead of saying "he ran fast," we can say "he ran quickly." Adverbs help us paint a clearer picture of what is happening. So don't forget to use adverbs in your speech to make it livelier and more descriptive.Missing Comma in a Compound Sentence
Not using commas or pauses in a sentence while talking or writing can lead to confusion. It becomes difficult to distinguish between different thoughts or ideas, making the overall communication less clear. A compound sentence is made up of two independent clauses joined by a coordinating conjunction like "and" or "but." For example, instead of saying "I went to the store and I bought some apples," we should say "I went to the store, and bought some apples." By using a comma, we can indicate the pause between the two independent clauses. This helps our listeners understand our thoughts and ideas more effectively. So, don't forget to include commas in compound sentences when you're speaking or even writing.Faulty sentence structure
Faulty sentence structure is a common English language error that arises when a sentence is not properly constructed. This can make the sentence difficult to read and understand. An example of this error is using too many commas, which can make a sentence disjointed and confusing. Another example is failing to use proper subject-verb agreement, which can make a sentence grammatically incorrect. To avoid this error, it's important to practice constructing sentences with clarity and precision.Lack of pronoun
A common error in English is forgetting to use pronouns. Pronouns replace nouns to avoid repetition. For example, instead of saying "John went to the store," just say "He went to the store." Remember to use pronouns like he, she, it, they, we, etc.Unnecessary Shift in Verb Tense
It occurs when there is an inconsistent change in verb tense within a sentence, paragraph, or passage. This can confuse the reader and disrupt the flow of the writing. To avoid this error, you should ensure that you maintain a consistent verb tense, making sure that all verbs match in past, present, or future tense.nnecessary or Missing Apostrophe
An unnecessary or Missing Apostrophe is another common error. For example, "it's" is a contraction of "it is" and should not be used to show possession. Instead, "its" without an apostrophe indicates possession. Missing apostrophes result in incorrect pluralization, such as "apple's" instead of "apples".Poorly Integrated Quotation
Lastly, poorly Integrated Quotation is a common English grammar mistake. It happens when a quote is not smoothly integrated into a sentence. For example, "She said, 'I like pizza.' instead of 'She said that she likes pizza.' To fix it, we need to integrate the quote correctly into the sentence. It is okay to make mistakes while learning. However, the key is to learn from those mistakes and continuously improve. Learning English may be challenging, but the rewards it brings are immeasurable. By being mindful of grammar mistakes and actively working to avoid them, you can enhance your fluency and communication skills. So, embrace the learning journey, avoid common English language mistakes, and watch yourself grow more confident and fluent in English. For exceptional mastery over English , consider Ekya Schools, one the best CBSE schools in Bangalore. Call 080-49609096 for more information about admissions.Ekya / May 07, 2024
What Is IGCSE And Is It the Right Choice for My Child?
Every parent wants their child to have the best education, you are no different. However, when finding the right school for your child, you are often presented with a plethora of options. One such option that has grown in popularity in recent years is the IGCSE Schools in Bangalore. It is a globally recognized board and its curriculum is designed to foster holistic growth among students.
As one of the top IGCSE schools in Bangalore, we will explain what IGCSE is and help you decide if IGCSE schools are suitable for your child.
What is IGCSE?
The International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) is an internationally recognized board created by the University of Cambridge in England. It caters to 14–16 year olds (usually grades 9-10) and prepares them for further university studies worldwide. IGCSE courses offer a rich curriculum that tailors to individual strengths and nurtures the skills and competencies of students. Here are some of the benefits of IGCSE schools for your child.Student-Centric Approach
The IGCSE curriculum is student-centric and fosters creativity. Teachers and students contribute equally to the class, making it an enriching experience. Learning is practical, allowing students to understand concepts better through real-life applications. IGCSE schools encourage students to ask questions, share ideas, and learn collaboratively with their peers. This approach nurtures logical and creative thinking skills in students.Preparing for the Universities
One of the major advantages of joining IGCSE schools is that the students here are well-prepared for further studies. This is made possible by the extensive knowledge and benefits that come from a globally standardized education. The students are encouraged to become independent thinkers and learners which is crucial for university studies. IGCSE schools focus on understanding and grasping the concepts rather than just memorizing. These are the traits most universities look for in a student.A Community Worldwide
The IGCSE program brings together students from all over the world in a global community. Children learn how to be inclusive and empathetic towards different people and cultures. This helps them develop a broad perspective. The program also allows each child to become a part of a diverse and comprehensive global community.Inquiry-Based Learning
IGCSE courses foster curiosity in students by emphasizing real-life experiences, exploration, and expression. This encourages children to ask questions and research answers, helping them gain a better understanding of their communities and the world around them.Rigorous Assessments
Top IGCSE schools in Bangalore such as Ekya Schools offer a rich experience for students with thought-provoking assessments. These include a variety of modes such as oral, written, coursework, and practical assessments. These assessments offer questions of different difficulty levels, enabling students to challenge themselves and discover their strengths and weaknesses. By instilling confidence and boosting morale, the IGCSE curriculum empowers students to plan their future educational journeys.Choice of Subjects that Cater to Different Abilities
The IGCSE subjects are designed to meet the needs of different students. With over 70 subjects to choose from, including 30 languages, schools can offer a combination that suits each student. Students must select at least 5 subjects, which include:- Mathematics
- Science
- Humanities and Social Science
- Languages
- Creative, Technical, and Vocational Subjects Students also have a wide range of 30 languages to choose from, including their mother tongue.
Recognized by Universities Across the World
The IGCSE is the most recognized examination qualification across the world. Students with these qualifications are accepted into several countries like the US, UK, Germany, Canada, Australia, and Singapore. Many universities acknowledge and accept the IGCSE curriculum as part of their entrance criteria. The IGCSE opens up opportunities for further vocational education and serves as a strong foundation for employment. Students with IGCSE backgrounds have the necessary abilities that employers value in potential employees. In conclusion, choosing the best school for your child can be a daunting task considering the number of options today. However, if you think a strong syllabus and robust curriculum are best for your child, IGCSE schools are the way to go. To find the best IGCSE schools near Bannerghatta Road, look no further than Ekya Schools in JP Nagar. Our goal is to give students a well-rounded education that nurtures critical thinking, and creativity along with academic excellence.Join us and allow your child to delve into the stimulating realm of IGCSE subjects, nurturing their personal growth and development along the way.. We're here to shape future leaders with an inclusive and inspiring learning environment.Topping Grade X ICSE Boards – Devaamsh Rajesh, Ekya School JP Nagar
When we first got in touch with Devaamsh Rajesh, he had just arrived back home after a game of basketball and a long day at college. With his Grade 11 classes already up and running, Devaamsh graciously took time to answer our questions, some of which he had been constantly answering over the past week.
Securing 97.2% in the Grade X ICSE Boards, Devaamsh is not just our school topper at Ekya School JP Nagar but also one of the city’s leading board toppers.
“I was in class when our results came out. My friends and I had a countdown going, by the minute. And when the news broke out at 3 PM, I couldn’t believe my eyes or ears. My parents messaged me and for a brief moment, I didn’t know how to react. I excused myself from class and screamed in the washroom. It was a sheer delight, more importantly, a sense of relief from all that tension.”
On being asked if being at Ekya helped him with being one of the toppers of the city, Devaamsh spoke highly of his teachers, his classmates and all the support he has received over the years.
We asked Devaamsh to list down his advice for his juniors and students who are looking to excel in their boards next March. Here are his eight commandments:
Devaamsh(left) secured 583 out of 600 with a centum score in Mathematics
With congratulatory messages and wishes still trickling in, we got a chance to hear from the boy himself, prodding him to share his secret recipe of topping the ICSE boards. We asked him the one question everyone had in mind – How did he pull this off? In his humble demeanor, Devaamsh credited the learning-over-marks approach he employed at school. “I never studied for marks. I never regarded school as a place to get marks, but a place to learn. I made sure I paid attention to what was being taught in class. At home, I would then revise topics that I had difficulty understanding from the day’s lesson. That was my day-to-day routine during school.” Having joined Ekya in Grade 6, Devaamsh didn’t always have it easy with marks or class. “I remember setting a goal for myself during the final Grade 9 examinations, of which I came short. I didn’t have the best start to my 10th Grade either. I wasn’t doing great in my unit tests and I had to buck up for my pre-boards.” With a history of mischievous run-ins with a couple of his teachers, Devaamsh reveals how he turned things around. “I set a percentage in my head, for the pre-boards. I was aiming for 95%. I sat down with my teachers to discuss where I was losing marks. I think this helped me identify areas that needed improvement. My preparation for both my pre-board examinations helped me cut down study time for my finals, substantially. I made use of this study break to revise what I knew and grasp topics that I wasn’t confident about.”I was not looking to top my class. I set a target for myself and I just wanted to beat my previous score.Admitting that he didn’t have a fixed study schedule, Devaamsh highlighted the importance of asking questions in class. “We had a set of encouraging teachers who were always open to all our questions. I think I made the best use of this, asking them every doubt that occurred to me, however silly or stupid it may have seemed. Especially in Ms. Aarti’s Geography class or Ms. Asha’s English class, I’d actively participate in open discussions about the topic of the day. It helped me in my understanding and reduced my need to study it over and over again.” When it comes to final exams, there is always that one subject that students dread. With Devaamsh, it was Hindi. “I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t worried. I wasn’t very proficient in Hindi and as a second language, I found it a little difficult to follow. Here is where my teachers and friends stepped in. I spoke to students who were scoring well in the subject, to figure what more I could do to improve. I guess I have surprised myself by scoring well in the finals.”
Devaamsh was in a number of the city's newspapers
Securing 97.2% in the ICSE Board is no ordinary feat, so we coaxed Devaamsh to share with us his schedule during the month of his examination and how he dealt with stress. “Once the Boards began, I was solely focussed on performing well and getting marks. The exam would begin at 11 and finish by early afternoon, so I would be home by 2:30 PM. A quick snack or lunch break would be followed by a study session. For the next subject, I’d break my schedule over topics that I wanted to revise. I didn’t do lessons at a stretch because I was fairly confident of what I knew. Since I cannot do long hours of studying, I spent 45 minutes to an hour with my books. I would pick up a novel or my guitar or practice my singing, to ease my mind from all the studying. I had secured my admission into a college at this point, so I wasn’t very worried. I just didn’t want to let myself down. I didn’t want to cut any corners. It feels great that I have made myself proud, and my parents proud.” Tucking in 10 to 15-minute breaks in between, Devaamsh’s mental release also came from regular games of basketball. A regular at the Harmony School of Music for over five years, Devaamsh was also an established player in the Ekya JP Nagar’s basketball team, also representing the school in debates and other interschool competitions. “I think extracurricular activities play a big role in your mental state. When I was preparing for my Hindi exam, I found myself getting very saturated. Basketball helped me here. In between play, I would think about what I wasn’t doing right with the subject, a perspective I would have missed while sitting and studying. I would have this rectified as soon as I got home.”
On being asked if being at Ekya helped him with being one of the toppers of the city, Devaamsh spoke highly of his teachers, his classmates and all the support he has received over the years.
Ekya gave us an environment for open conversations – our teachers were always listening to us and answering our doubts, creating a space where we could focus on what was being taught, airing questions without the fear of being judged. I received so much support from the vice-principal, my teachers and my house mistress, who was encouraging during my time as the House Captain. My classmates, we were one big gang of friends with absolutely no room for judgment.Does our topper have any regrets? We prodded him to which he confessed, “I guess I should have troubled my teachers a little lesser than what I did. That and a few more marks in English.” Currently in Grade 11, pursuing the PCMB steam in Science, Devaamsh is an IISC aspirant, looking to apply for the KVPY Scholarship programme. With an eye on research, he hasn’t really decided which side of the field he will find himself in the future. "One thing is constant - my love for Physics, Chemistry, and Biology. The study of genetics and radiology are two fields I might consider. Science has always fascinated me and I will continue pursuing it." With the latest fanfare from his performance, we wanted to know if Devaamsh was overwhelmed with the media coverage and if he had any treats due for his friends and family. “My friends from my apartment have gotten theirs. A few more treats are pending. I was pretty happy and euphoric. I have seen my face in the papers a couple of times, as part of our troupe from music school but no-one has interviewed me before. This is definitely a first.” And certainly not the last, we hope, for this young achiever of ours! Here is what Ms. Ayesha Sirajuddin, Vice-Principal at Ekya JP Nagar and a couple of Devaamsh’s teachers had to say about him.
We asked Devaamsh to list down his advice for his juniors and students who are looking to excel in their boards next March. Here are his eight commandments:
- Always ask questions, be free to share - don’t be afraid to be judged, you’re still going to learn from it.
- Always compete with yourself. Set personal benchmarks and believe that you are going to reach your goals.
- Make running notes in class. Concise everything you have understood and ask doubts if you haven’t.
- You have to know the ins and outs of your textbook. Cover every corner. Don’t skip topics. Understand them.
- Nail your revision schedule. Spend your study holidays studying and grasping. Save practicing question papers to only after you are done studying.
- Ask teachers for help. They have so much experience and can tell you what to expect in the exam and how you can answer better.
- Different things work for different people. Don’t set anything too high that you know you cannot achieve. Don’t aim too low. Don’t over-do. Just do your best.
- Don’t forget to have fun. It is an important part of the process.
Foldscope Grant awarded at Ekya Schools and CMR Group of Institutions
Another feather in the cap of Ekya Schools and the CMR Group of Institutions, as we were awarded grants to pursue research on projects revolving around Foldscope. We break down the details of our latest achievement in this blog series,
What is a Foldscope?
A Foldscope is an educational tool that is designed to bring the microscope to the compass box of a student. It is an origami-style product which the user/student assembles before using the microscope. The magnification of the Foldscope is up to 1 micron and can be used on most cells, algae, bacteria, and pollen. These can be viewed with minimal effort by a student
Image from www.foldoscope.com
Foldscope is the ultra-affordable, paper microscope that you assemble yourself. Designed to be extremely portable, durable, and to give optical quality similar to conventional research microscopes (magnification of 140X and 2 micron resolution), Foldscope brings hands-on microscopy to new places!What is the Foldscope grant all about? The Foldscope grant competition invited applications from across India for projects promoting the use of the Foldscope as a means to generate interest in Science. This grant, the first one being awarded for the use of the Foldscope as an educational, training and research tool, saw a total of 525 applications from schools, colleges and citizen scientists across India. The competition offered the grant to use the origami paper microscope to promote exploration in scientific areas. Under this programme, selected applicants will be in a twinning programme with schools/colleges across the Northeastern region of India for the exchange of students and ideas. The CMR Group of Institutions was fortunate enough to apply for this grant and be a part of projects that focus on sustainable development of our planet and eco-science, thereby make science interesting and exciting. Who awards the Foldscope grant? This is an initiative by The Department of Biotechnology (DBT), The Ministry of Science and Technology, Government of India in partnership with Foldscope Instruments Inc and PrakashLab (Stanford). How is the Foldscope unique? Technical Aspects: The Foldscope uses magnetic rings and one of them encapsulates the lens (aspherical lens), which is the key component of the Foldscope. The assembling of the Foldscope takes a few minutes. The construction of the Foldscope is such that the slide can be moved while viewing and the experience of a typical microscope is not compromised. The magnetic lens gets automatically attached when the Foldscope is folded properly. This provides a handy tool for enhancing curiosity in children. Outreach: The Foldscope’s attraction lies in its affordability and enablement for the purpose. The inventors of the Foldscope took the pain to simplify not just microscope, but slide making, biological sample handling, experience, etc. An Example of using the Foldscope: During the workshop in Delhi on March 16-17, 2018 one of the exercises included slide making with cello tape and the process took less than a minute to make the same. This was probably one-tenth of the time for typical slide making which involves many steps. Details of the five foldscope grants awarded:
- Ekya School, ITPL - for the study of mosquito identification to map the mosquito-borne diseases.
- Ekya School JP Nagar – for the study of identifying and presenting “Garcinia Morella” the only plant antibiotic containing tree for the Western Ghats.
- CMR National Public School - for the study of pollen and dust mites.
- CMR National PU College, ITPL - for studying nano & microparticles in common foods.
- CMR Institute of Technology - a par B foldscope grant for research on nanoparticles for a new generation microchannel based sensor.
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