#StudentBlogger: Express Yourself Creatively – By, Ritam Reddy, Grade 9 IGCSE Ekya School, Byrathi
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There’s a common misconception that expressing one’s creativity can only be done through art and other visual means. Although taking a deeper look into the very essence of creativity, we find that it simply isn’t true. Creativity is expressing your individuality and characteristics through various types of work and ideas. That being said, it isn’t limited to only visual arts and crafts, is it? Essentially, any type of distinctiveness based on your imagination qualifies as creativity. That can range from a painting with your toes to a series of original novels written by yourself.
“You can’t use up creativity, the more you use, the greater you have” is an eye-opening quote by Maya Angelou. This quote imposes on us the fact that creativity is more than just an aptitude and is more of innate talent or power that everyone possesses, just in different ways. A real-life instance of that would be writing a story every so often, and each time your sense of vocabulary and range of words, that you have a command over, will expand. You get more imaginative and your stash of words will increase, allowing you to have a more flexible and creative way of expressing your sentiments.
The run-of-the-mill and stereotypical statement that, “Intelligent people are more creative”, has caused countless young people, who had extraordinary creativity but lagged in academics; to never explore opportunities and make a name for themselves in the creative fields. In fact, contrary to that statement, studies have proven that intelligence has no correlation to the creative ability of an individual, whatsoever.
In today’s modern society, digitalization and the fear of what others might think of you are what holds back one’s innovativeness and ability to solve problems. Letting ourselves get defeated by society’s opinions and judgments could be the greatest downfall, as that prevents us from evolving as a species.
By, Ritam Reddy, Grade 9 IGCSE Ekya School, Byrathi
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Ekya / July 26, 2024
Guide to Conquer the IPMAT Entrance Exam
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
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?
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.#StudentBlogger: सावन का पहला साया – By, Mahashri Gautam, Grade 9, Ekya ITPL
सावन का पहला साया
दोपहर को मैं बैठी हाथ में किताब लिए
फिर किसी ने मुझको बुलाया,
जोर से आवाज दिया
आशंका हुई मुझे कही
सोचा कि शायद वही तो नहीं?
फिर मेरी नजर कैलेंडर पर पडी
और मेरी आंखें माथे पर चढ़ी
अब मुझे पता चला कि किसने बुलाया
अरे वाह! यह तो है सावन का पहला साया
कुर्सी से उठ के मैं दौड़ की गई खिड़की पर
और आसमान को देखकर सोचा
आज लगता है देव पथ है अपनी ही मजे में
जहां पर पहले दिवाकर सूर्य का राज था
वहां पर अब केश फैलाए काले घने बादलों का
राज करने की हुई थी लालसा
फिर आरंभ हुआ सूर्यदेव व बादलों के बीच का महासंग्राम
गरजते हुए दोनों ने लिया एक दूसरे का नाम
शोर सुन के कांप उठा सारा गगन और मेरा मन
परंतु अंततः लंबी चांदी समान विजय पताका बरसाते हुए जीत गए घन
तब मैंने हलके से, हंस के सर हिलाया
हां, सोचा, यही तो है सावन का पहला साया !
#TeacherBlogger: How I Develop Writing Skills in Students – By, Virginia Isaac, IGCSE and Middle School English teacher, Ekya Byrathi
“No tears in the writer, no tears in the reader. No surprise in the writer, no surprise in the reader.” – Robert Frost
English is used in the world as a lingua franca among people from different cultures, ethnicities, and social backgrounds across the world. As a teacher, guiding students to write effectively, being the major component in teaching English, has always been a herculean and challenging task for me.
Thankfully, there are a plethora of ideas, activities, and tools which can be adopted to improve children’s writing skills. Creating a blended learning environment to teach languages online, often involves utilizing various tools and pedagogical approaches. Teaching online has its own set of challenges and hurdles but with the easily accessible technology, for me, as an English language teacher, it has turned out to be an effortless task. However, using these applications can create technical, administrative, and pedagogical challenges unless the right application is used and the right culture is created in the online classes for students, especially skills that require writing.
Prior to this pandemic, my classroom teaching involved direct teaching, guiding, and encouraging writing skills with the add-ons like Powerpoint presentations and Youtube videos, which played a secondary role in encouraging writing. But during this extraordinary situation of virtual schooling, and the uncertainty looming with regard to offline classes, all these technological sources became the primary source and not just add-ons.
One of the best ways to help children strengthen their English writing is to ensure that they master the art of reading as it is the stepping stone to better writing. Since time immemorial, this is one fruitful skill, which is used in classes across the sphere. Inspired by this. I have been using this technique in my regular classes not only to instill a habit of reading but also to enhance their visual as well as auditory senses and concentrate on the pronunciations, punctuations, literary elements, and devices to increase their ability to understand and reproduce them when penning down their writing assignments.
As online classes are in full swing, using the break-out rooms to have small discussions, supporting peer-review, and giving feedback on their writing skills is another tool which I make use of, to develop confidence and avoid anxiety in children when they are putting words on the paper.
Over and above, introducing new words to build vocabulary, encouraging letter writing, which has become a bit of a lost art, journaling, creating story prompts, stressing the importance of clear, thoughtful writing, assigning brief writing exercises, classroom writing competitions, allowing learner autonomy so as to help students identify the common errors and rectify them and last but not the least is to making writing fun is what I always adopt in my teaching of this language.
Applying and incorporating innovative writing tools and collaborating with other faculty members to integrate and to make writing more effective in their subjects, is an innovative technique which we use in Ekya Byrathi, encouraged by our HOS, so as to build and boost the skill of writing in varied subjects and topics.
We, as adults, and teachers can write to explain and elaborate our ideas through our writing, to the world out there. But a student can take years to develop that skill and it is my earnest desire and aim to help them progress and succeed in this language. Writing is a fine skill and it is an apprehended state of education.
I believe that my students are my vital assets, wanting and waiting to be challenged and encouraged in this online journey. Enabling and equipping them using this online forum to the best of my ability, is my goal.
Students, on the other hand, during the classes are a great help in guiding me when I get stuck and helping me handle any technological hitch that I face. This role reversal does enhance my own learning skills of this virtual world and this also becomes a source of good communication and vocabulary for the students, which boosts my enthusiasm and theirs as well. As the quote goes ‘ A teacher is always a learner’ is so relevant, more so in my case, as it took me a few months to learn and appreciate this virtual teaching and learning.
It is my commitment to teach, advise and apprise students that, it is only when one learns to write, they can fix their official signature. Numerous teaching and learning skills are out there to grasp and there are many that I have to master, but my journey of learning will never cease. Finally, as an English teacher, I can never call it a day as I will continue to learn, develop and motivate myself to impart the writing and reading skills of this amazing language and develop the skill and love for writing in students.
By, Virginia Isaac, IGCSE and Middle School English teacher, Ekya Byrathi
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