Pench National Park – by Pradyoth Kashyap
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Pench National Park Visit December 2019
This was a school trip in which we experienced the wildness of wildlife.
Fun, laughter, anger, sacredness was all part of this wildlife journey.
Day 1:
It started on 22nd Dec 2019. It was around 4:00 am in the morning when we reached the airport, the excitement was flowing in me as I was thrilled to fly in an airplane 1st time without my parents and with friends and teachers. After all the airport procedures the flight took off and we witnessed a magnificent sunrise through the windows of the aircraft up in the sky in between the clouds. Once we landed in Nagpur after a journey of 1 and 1/2 hours, we boarded an AC Bus and headed to Pench National park. We traveled through many highways and finally arrived at our resort “Mahua Vann”. We went to our allotted rooms and freshened up. We spent time in chit chat till 12:30 PM and had then had sumptuous lunch at the resort restaurant. Once we completed lunch, we went around exploring the resort. The resort was filled with greenery with plants and trees everywhere. It had a lot of different kinds of beautiful flowers. We had time to rest from 2:00 pm to 5 pm in our respective rooms. We had a fun time in the room cracking jokes and made new friends. We were served Hi-Tea on the central lawn of the resort with some biscuits and fried snacks. By 6:00 pm we were asked to assemble in the conference room facility in the resort and there was a session on mammals and birds which went on till 8:30 pm. Later we had fun at the campfire in the resort and had dinner and slept.
Day 2:
- It was around 4:30 am. We received a wake-up call. With that, we all woke up got ready and sat in a gypsy for a jungle safari. I was feeling very cold and covered myself with a lot of warm clothes. We then started our journey got the security clearance and went inside the forest. There were many calls by animals like Human Langoors. Our guide told us that the call was for the tigers to save themselves and save the spotted deer from tigers. We followed the call and waited at the spot for about 15 minutes and eagerly waited to spot the tigers. A gypsy in front of us told that the tiger was spotted a few kilometers from the spot and we drove to the spot as quickly as possible. Unfortunately, we couldn’t spot the tiger. We then headed to the breakfast point in the jungle. During this journey, we spotted deer, Indian Gaurs, Chausingha and Antlers. After having breakfast we heard more calls but we could not spot the tigers The forest was lush green and cool breeze put us to sleep. By 11:00 we were back to the resort and we had time till 12:30 to finish our daily chores and some chit chat in the rooms. We had lunch between 12:30 to 1:30 playing the games like atlas and word building and had a lot of fun. We set up camera traps in the resort near the swimming pool to observe how camera traps work. We started to walk towards a nearby village to talk to the villagers about the challenges that they face in their daily life staying close to the forest. This part was much fun as we had some language barrier as we could not communicate properly in Hindi, however, our Hindi Teacher Sheela Mam helped us convey our thoughts to villagers and was successful in understanding it. We understood that the villagers lacked education, but they lived in peace. We also understood that they did not face challenges living next to the forest. We walked back to the resort while we enjoyed viewing the sunset. At the resort, we had Hi-Tea and we were given a session on reptiles. We had a campfire and enjoyed a movie at Pench National park. We had dinner and then It was time to talk to our parents over the phone and we slept. It was a very long day and I enjoyed it greatly.
Day 3:
We were given a wake-up call at 6:30 in the morning. We went out on a Nature walk in which we acquired so much knowledge on the plants and birds in that area. The sunrise during this walk was magnification but the dewdrops on the plants and grass made our shoes wet. On this walk, we also spotted Hunuma Langoors and learned about Asoka trees, cotton plantations and many other types of birds. We returned to the resort, had delicious hot breakfast and set out for an activity called “Quadrant Activity”. This activity involved finding insects, birds plants outside the resort in the huge fields, that we had learned during our sessions in the resort. This activity was fun-filled as we had to throw stones at the trees to shoo the birds away and watch which bird it was. We returned to the resort, had a nice swim at the pool and later got freshened up and went ahead for lunch. We had a filling lunch and headed to “Padchar Village” to have an experience of making pottery by ourselves with the help of a guide. We were allowed to buy a few of the pottery items from the sale. I thoroughly enjoyed this experience. We got free time till 8:30 then we had dinner. After that there was a tribal dance, we all joined and danced with them and then we slept.
Day 4:
We got a wake-up call for jungle safari, we got ready and started off. Today we did not spot many animals and again we could not spot a tiger. Once we came back to the resort we took bath and vacated the room. We then had lunch and were quizzed on everything we learned during the trip. Then we started for Nagpur airport. once we arrived we completed the airport procedures and boarded the flight we then landed collected our baggage and got reunited with our parents.
That was the end of the wild adventure.
by Pradyoth Kashyap
Grade 6, Ekya School, JP Nagar
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Shanthi Sivaram / 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.
Shanthi Sivaram / 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.Shanthi Sivaram / 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.Ekya Recommends: Understanding Financial Literacy for Children
Do you remember the first time you received pocket money from your parents? The first few times, you may have found it difficult to manage. Usually, children make the mistake of spending all their money at the beginning of the month and by the end of it, have nothing left.
Managing money is an important life skill that children should learn. With the advancement of technology, many monetary transactions are done online or with a credit card. As a result, children may not get to experience cash transactions often and may actually be less aware of money than we were at their age, because of the lack of concrete experience with it. Learning about how to think about money, manage it wisely, spend in proportion to income, set savings goals, are life skills that will help our children become financially responsible.
Some questions that may be on your mind are probably:
Some questions that may be on your mind are probably:
- “Should parents discuss finances and how to manage savings with their children?”
- “What is the appropriate age to start having such discussions”
- “How should these topics be approached?”
Synergy- Inter School Skating Competition
“ Champions keep playing until they get it right.'' You all are champions of today and the leaders of tomorrow.
Synergy-an interschool skating competition had participants from Ekya ITPL, Ekya J.P Nagar, Ekya Byrathi & CMR NPS participated in this event.
Synergy is all set to bring out the teamwork, harmony, and unity in all of us, this is also an opportunity to develop respect and love for this lovely and vigorous sport. Skating is a unique sport that increases one’s balance and agility. It improves endurance, burns calories and makes the heart stronger. Skating is the epitome of hard work and dedication.
The students were all given a numbered sticker. This was an important identification and had to be stuck to their helmet.
They were seated in the places allotted to them to ensure the smooth conduct of the event.
The course of the 150 m race was 3 laps around the rink. The course of the 300 m race was 6 laps around the rink.
The first-aid facility was also available for any immediate emergencies.
Refreshments were provided for all participants and were handed over to the teachers-in-charge.
We have student volunteers stationed at strategic points for helping you. Please reach out to them if you need anything.
The warm-up areas helped the children to prepare for the actual event.
The first race was Tenacity which is the 150m race.
The next race was the Tenacity 300m race.
Followed by 150m Inline race.
The 300m Inline race.
The 150m Quads race.
The last race of the day was the 300m Quads race.
The medals and certificates were distributed by Ms Ayesha Sirajuddin, Head of South Campuses, Ms Sharadha, Assistant Manager, Ekya Learning Centre, Ms.Deeparani HOS Ekya BTM Layout, Ms Asha Doris Senior Academic Coordinator Ekya BTM, Ms Madhuri Iyer CCA Coordinator Ekya BTM, Ms Vijayalakshmi Anilkumar Coordinator Preprimary Ekya BTM gave away the prizes to the winners. The event marked the success of the debut campus marquee event.
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