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Ekya / June 24, 2022 Posted by : administrator

How teachers can help students to form a Growth Mindset in the classroom

A word that is heard quite commonly is ‘mindset ‘. Mindset is a set of beliefs that shape how you make sense of the world and yourself. It influences how you think, feel, and behave in any given situation. A growth mindset towards learning is now considered as important as the academic knowledge itself whether at school or at the workplace.

Research shows that a growth mindset towards learning helps students to understand that their abilities can be developed over time through effort and persistence. On the other hand, people with a fixed mindset believe that abilities are fixed and are present when you are born. They cannot be developed or improved further.

When a child has a growth mindset, they tend to have a hunger for learning and a desire to work hard and discover new things. This often translates into academic achievement. On the other hand, those with fixed mindsets are more likely to give up in the face of challenging circumstances.

How are these mindsets formed in the first place?  One of the main causes is found to be praising and labeling often in early childhood at home, school or in public interactions. Thus, parents and teachers can make a significant impact in the formation of mindset in students.

A few pointers on how we can make a difference as teachers in formation of a growth mindset:

  • Teach the students about brain neuroplasticity which is the ability of the brain to form new neural connections in response to challenges or new experiences. Students will be more interested in learning when they know that they can remodel their own brain during study and drill. A very useful teaching resource in this direction is the 3-D brain map sourced from the Open Colleges website. Students can click on various parts of the brain model and learn about different parts and their functions. The brain map also provides options for accelerating learning by providing case studies.

  “Picture your brain forming new connections as you meet the challenge and

           learn. Keep on going.” – Carol Dweck

  •  Mistakes and Failure from the students are to be normalized and not criticized. As children grow, they become more and more reluctant to commit any mistake due to the fear of failure. Only if they commit mistakes will they learn. Encourage students to openly discuss their failures and learn from them.

  •  Practice positive self – talk and reframe language during communication and feedback. A teacher must add the golden word “yet” if any student says “I am not good at math”. “Not yet”, the teacher must add so that students understand skills are modifiable. Teaching students how to use positive self-talk helps them develop the confidence and essential skills necessary to be successful in scientific challenges and investigations.

Therefore, as a teacher, the next time a student struggles we must consciously use a growth mindset to encourage and help that student to find a different way of thinking.

“More and more research is suggesting that, far from being simply encoded in the genes, much of personality is a flexible and dynamic thing that changes over the lifespan and is shaped by experience.” – Carol Dweck.

Ms. Preethi C

High School Math Teacher

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Ekya / March 26, 2024

The Hot Garlic Soup Inspired by ‘The Last Leaf’ by O. Henry

Sue and Johnsy, two young artists, shared a small flat on the third storey of an old house.
Johnsy fell ill in November. She was diagnosed with pneumonia. She would lie in her bed, gazing out of the window. Sue sent for the doctor. The doctor said to Sue, “Johnsy’s condition is not so serious yet. It seems she is unable to recover because she has lost the will to live.”
Sue became extremely worried for Johnsy’s well-being and mental health. She tried to make Johnsy interested in the things around her, but Johnsy never replied with more than a noncommittal hum.
One day, Sue was painting when she heard Johnsy counting backwards. Sue looked out of the window and saw an old ivy creeper climbing on the brick wall. The ivy was shedding its leaves in the strong gust of the wind.
“They are falling faster now,” whispered Johnsy. “Three days ago there were so many leaves. Only five are left now.”
“It is autumn,” said Sue, “and the leaves will fall.”
“When the last leaf falls, I will die” said Johnsy with finality. “I have felt this for the last three days.”
“Oh, that’s nonsense,” replied Sue. “Why do you believe your fate is tied to those old ivy leaves?”
“Human life is fleeting, just like those ivy leaves,” said Johnsy. “I got sick just as the ivy started shedding its leaves. It must be an omen. The last leaf will fall, and I will slip into slumber forever.”
Sue sat on Johnsy’s bed, kissed her and said, “You are not going to die. Plenty of people fall sick in autumn, and they recover soon enough. Do you want some soup?”
“I don’t want any soup. My time is almost up, I’m sure of it,” murmured Johnsy.
Sue decided to change tactics. She was not going to give up on Johnsy.
“It is true that human life is somewhat fleeting, but that’s exactly what makes life valuable. Do you not want to see what life has to offer before you slip into slumber? Will you not miss the cool breeze waking you up, the warm embrace of sunlight? Do you want to give up the feeling of the paintbrush gliding over the canvas?” Sue quavered.
“Look beyond the ivy to that tree over there,” Sue continued. “Even that tree is shedding its leaves, but it is also growing new leaves. It is going to live for many more years, just like you.”
Johnsy contemplated for a while. Then, she looked out of the window and smiled.
“Perhaps I will have some hot garlic soup. You made me realise that life is worth living after all.”
Written by Aahana,
from grade 9A

Ekya / March 22, 2024

Importance of Literature in a Classroom.

"Literature is one of the most interesting and significant expressions of humanity" - P.T.Barnum

We as humans are social beings. We can't imagine our lives to be solitary. Literature facilitates us to understand and communicate with one another in society. It helps us explore the world around us and is a medium to express our views and experiences. So it is of vital importance that the students are introduced to literature at a young age.

Literature is necessary for students as it helps them to develop imagination, improves vocabulary and language skills and even enhances creativity. Literature helps them understand the world outside their home and school.

It is disheartening to see that literature is often not put on the same pedestal as other technical subjects like Math or Science. where it shouldn't be the case.

Literature includes different types of texts like stories and fables, myths

and legends, poetry and drama or even informational texts that help them explore other subjects. It prepares students to read and understand the real world.

There are one too many benefits of including literature at a young age. It is like an exercise for the brain, keeping an individual mentally active and stimulated.

Exposure to cultures from different countries brings in a sense of respect and tolerance, a feat possible through literature. It motivates one to appreciate different lives and their ways and also to graciously disagree with something that may not be right. The different characters the students are introduced to become a source of inspiration. They start to imagine themselves in varied situations. they learn different solutions to problems they come across.

More importantly, reading is fun and literature develops an inclination toward reading and makes them self-learners.

It can be concluded that literature is a gateway to nurturing a child’s life skills more than any assignment or task

can ever do.

Written By:

Shruthi Prakash

English Educator - Primary

Ekya Schools BTM Layout

Ekya / March 22, 2024

A Day to Remember: Juniors Bid Goodbye to Seniors with a Spectacular Farewell Party.

As the academic year draws to a close, emotions run high at our beloved school. The time has come for the juniors to express their gratitude, love, and affection for their departing seniors.

And what better way to do this than by throwing an unforgettable farewell party?

The air was buzzing with excitement as the juniors meticulously planned every detail to make it a night that their seniors would cherish forever.

The audio-visual room was transformed into a place of nostalgia and celebration, adorned with decorations to welcome the seniors. Each performance was filled with energy, enthusiasm, and dedication. Each video played, spoke volumes about the memories shared and the bonds formed throughout their academic journey, blanketing the atmosphere with a mix of joy, laughter, and a hint of bittersweet anticipation.

Our seniors were all dressed up to the nines for the occasion with the girls in a blue and white saree and the boys in black suits.

But how did all of this come to be? I am a grade 11 student and let me take you through behind the scenes of this event and how we prepared for this event.

  • Many girls formed a group and decided to dance to “Paint It Red” and “All Is Well”. Everyone’s efforts are to be appreciated as they come up with new steps and formations. Well-coordinated teamwork led to an amazing performance that got everyone cheering.

  • Meanwhile, my batchmate, Lara,  and a few teachers were preparing to sing songs dedicated to the seniors. Lara sang a melodious rendition of “When You Believe” and the teachers sang a medley of songs which got the seniors singing along as well!

  • The boys planned on dancing to the song “Galti Se Mistake” and their performance was full of creativity and humour. The choreography was inspired by the original music video of the song and they worked hard together and taught each other the steps. This performance got everyone giggling and cheering so loud!

  • It did not end with the students, even the teachers chose to step into this grand celebration. They danced on a variety of songs and each song made the seniors hoot louder. Even though they had a very busy schedule they would still take time and dedicate it to the dance practice during after-school hours. Huge kudos for their coordination and effort!

  • Mohana and Arshia came up with a very engaging script which had the attention of the audience. A small game was organised for the students where they had to write something good about one of their batchmates. Everybody put their hands together and made 32 crowns of appreciation for their seniors. A video of the seniors was made including photos and videos of their dearest memories. Last but not least, our teachers also prepared a video message for the seniors bidding farewell and wishing them the best for their future endeavours.

The day finally came. The 10th of February came. It was the day - the day for which we had been preparing for days. The graduation.

The place was set, the background screen was ready, the mic was ready and the sound system was ready. Our seniors came one by one and the auditorium was filled with chatter until the anchors came in and the event started.

After a few minutes, the head boy gave a heartfelt speech, followed by the chit game of affirmations then Lara’s beautiful performance.

The girls donned black kurtis and sunglasses and danced to “Paint It Red”, which got a round of applause. The seniors loved the “Galti Se Mistake” dance by the boys for its creativity and comedic execution and what made it better was the shorts with shirt and tie combination. The dance finale was to the song “All Is Well” which got the audience cheering for the dancers with lots of enthusiasm.

Then a video filled with the memories of the seniors was shown which made most of them emotional. The dance which everybody was eagerly anticipating started - it was our beloved teachers who completely rocked the stage with their amazing performance.

Then a few teachers gave a very emotional message followed by songs dedicated to their students. The event came to an end with video messages by the teachers,  a crowning ceremony and high tea.

In conclusion, the event was successful, and enjoyed by all the students - juniors, seniors and teachers. It wouldn’t have been possible without everyone’s contribution and teamwork. It was an emotional roller coaster for everyone and a day which will never be forgotten.

Written By:

Stutee Samantray

(Grade 11, Ekya BTM)

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Which is the best Educational Board for the Future: CBSE: ICSE : IGCSE?

Introduction

The education system in India has often been applauded for its progressive curriculum. It offers different boards to choose from, each with their own set of advantages. Each board: CBSE, ICSE and IGCSE offers a plethora of subjects for a bright future. With the options given, it is often hard to determine the right choice for your child. To make it easier for you, here are some of the details on the education board right for your child.

CBSE - Central Board of Secondary EducationSkills and Development

CBSE schools in Bangalore - (CBSE) Central Board of Secondary Education The Central Board of Secondary Education was craeted in the pre-Independence era. It has contributed immensely to the development and growth of secondary education in the country by adapting and constantly changing over the years. The vision of CBSE is to go beyond textbooks and link classroom learning with real life. 

Some advantages of CBSE would be:

  • Skills and Development
CBSE schools in Bangalore - Skills and Development Focusing on creating a strong link between scholastic and non-scholastic education, the CBSE board is the most popular board in India. To ensure that the skills and development of students are made a priority, reasoning and creative abilities are given precedence over memorization. 
  • Pattern and Syllabus
CBSE schools in Bangalore - Pattern and Syllabus CBSE has a thorough Science and Mathematics syllabus. The pattern and syllabus is designed in such a way to enable the student to contribute to India’s global competition. The CBSE board has established its presence in over 24000 schools across India and 240 schools in 26 foreign countries making it an advantage for students who may have to transfer across schools on a global level, while having the comfort of not changing the medium of instruction. 

ICSE

ICSE Schools in Bangalore - (ICSE) Indian Certificate of Secondary Education The ICSE( the Indian Certificate of Secondary Education) board has a vision dedicated to empower students and help them in contributing towards a humane, just and pluralistic society. The Council conducts three examinations, one is The Indian Certificate of Secondary Education (ICSE) which is for the Class 10 students,  the Indian School Certificate (ISC) which is for the Class 12 students and the Certificate of Vocational Education examination. 

Advantages of ICSE

  • Skills and Development
ICSE Schools in Bangalore - Skills and Development In the ICSE approach, a focus is put on learning the basics before the student can become an expert on the subject.  This helps the student have a thorough understanding of the topic. The subjects they learn become knowledge they can practise for life. ICSE exams test knowledge, understanding and application. 
  • Pattern and Syllabus
ICSE Schools in Bangalore - Pattern and Syllabus The syllabus of ICSE will prove an advantage to students who are planning to study abroad and may want to attempt entrance examinations for such studies.  It focuses on subjects such as Arts, Language and Science. It is an ideal choice for students who are looking to pursue literature, arts and management careers. The ethos of the council are such as diversity and plurality, striving for excellence and inculcating spiritual and cultural values. 

IGCSE

IGCSE Schools in Bangalore - (IGCSE) International General Certificate of Secondary Education The International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) is popular for having a foreign orientation and is certainly one of the most recognised curriculums globally. The board also focuses on imparting quality education and gives students a wide variety of subjects to choose from. If a student is looking at applying for universities globally right after their high school, this is the perfect board to opt for as it is recognised by the majority of universities based outside India.

Here are some advantages of IGCSE board -

  • Skills and Development
IGCSE Schools in Bangalore - Skills and Development Students who are enrolled in IGCSE affiliated schools are encouraged to be problem solvers and critical thinkers. They are taught to apply the knowledge they learn not only to familiar situations but to new situations as well. The students are also taught to develop a cultural awareness and be flexible towards changes. 
  • Pattern and Syllabus
IGCSE Schools in Bangalore - Pattern and Syllabus With a wide range of subjects to choose from, students have the opportunity to pursue their career interests. The teaching methods practiced are taken from the international context. The board aims to establish a strong connection between the students and the subjects in study.   

Conclusion

All the three education boards; ICSE, IGCSE and CBSE have distinct approaches towards education. CBSE board helps your child in being prepared for national level indian universities like IIT, NIIT etc. IGCSE and ICSE helps your child understand the international syllabi and prepare them for studying abroad. However, irrespective of the  stream you choose for your child, ensure that they are able to understand the pedagogy and gel in easily with the help of schools you choose. There are lot of options available for the best CBSE and ICSE schools in Bangalore. However, Ekya Schools is recognised as some of the best schools in Bangalore. We have all three education boards offered in different locations across Bangalore.  We at Ekya follow an in-house curriculum since it’s inception in 2010 and we focus on the method of “Live the Lesson” that helps our children look at not just what to learn, but how to learn. This experiential learning helps our students to excel irrespective of the board they choose in the senior program and we have seen this in the achievements our students have to their credit. Ekya ITPL, stands as one of the best CBSE schools in Bangalore  for the holistic education, building our students into a better citizens of tomorrow.

#TeacherBlogger: Back To Offline School By, Ms Jacqueline Elisha Gomest Grade 7, English Teacher, Ekya School, BTM Layout

The buzz in our campuses -June 2022

Ekya BTM - The electric campus

Joy, laughter, happiness, colour and energy - these are the words that define the atmosphere at Ekya’s BTM campus. On the first day of school, as the teachers prepared to welcome students to their classrooms in open arms, the excitement was palpable. 

Now, the wait for classrooms and corridors longing for the sights and sounds of children is complete. Boards inviting students to their classes, books filled with knowledge, chalks describing complexities and stationary documenting the experience; the little things that the students have missed are all back. Smartphones and televisions are joyfully traded for school bags and lunches with their friends. With so much to share, the only commodity we are short of is time.

Reminiscent of all the classes they have been through with us, I rejoice as I see our students walking down the corridors enveloped in a world of learning with their friends. There are seldom finer moments of felicity when students ask me, ‘Ma’am, do you remember me?’. The sparkle in their eyes reminds me of years past, as I reminisce about their growth in school. With students in Montessori asking for homework, I am ecstatic about the efforts our teachers have put in to develop our students.

With a euphoric sense of achievement, we in Ekya are walking into a year filled with optimism, filled with hope and most importantly filled with energy!

BACK TO  OFFLINE SCHOOL

Teacher: “Sam, can you please turn on your video?”

And that’s how our two years have passed. Years 2020 and 2021 have been a challenge for the entire universe. As the memories continue to haunt us, the education sector was one area that was severely affected by the pandemic.

Today, after two long years, when the school gates have finally opened to welcome children, our effort has increased by two fold. The sanitiser station continues to be present at every corner of the school, everyone at school continues to wear a mask and take precautions when we are under the weather.

While we are excited to see the happy faces of our children, we are duly aware of the times they have missed being around their friends. Several ice breaking activities have been included to help children overcome their social bubble and get acquainted with the physical school environment.

Online teaching has not only compelled us within four walls, it has also given us ample learning strategies which we have carried over to the offline platform. Presentations, study-videos, visual imageries- have been beneficial in honing the speaking and logic and reasoning skills of students. While the threat of the virus continues to scare us, we, while holding the hands of our children, continue to bridge every gap, onward and forward.

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