#TeacherBlogger: INDIVIDUAL DIFFERENCES: CRISIS OR OPPORTUNITY? By, Aarthi V B Biology Teacher for Grade 7-10, Ekya JP Nagar
Our Schools
Does catering to individual differences mean teaching 30 different curriculums to 30 different students in one classroom? Or does it mean aiming at the “average” and taking the middle ground in content? In practice, it is impossible to devise a curriculum for each student in a class. However, education aims to enable each student to attain all-around development according to his/her abilities. To achieve this, students should be provided with suitable assistance and guidance by their learning needs, so that they can develop their potential to the fullest.
Each student is a unique individual, different in cognitive development, social maturity, motivation, aspiration, learning styles, and potential. Apart from this, there are other factors underlying student differences. These include innate differences in intelligence, differences in social and economic background, and variations in past learning experiences. The ultimate goal is to stretch the potential of all students whether they are gifted or among the low achievers. Hence, finding out why students do not learn well and why some learn better than others, will help in using appropriate intervention and adopt effective strategies.
Student diversity can be embraced as a useful way of adding variety to classroom practice. To address the needs of all categories of students, we as teachers should provide them with a variety of learning opportunities such as using diversified resources, a spectrum of intelligence, and multi-sensory experiences.
The “Educator Tools” have a great influence in supporting the teaching process. Our Ekya Tool kit has a great collection of effective learning strategies to bring out the best in students. A student who is engaged in class is likely to learn more than the ones who are not and hence it is very important to plan for engaging content.
The Entry Ticket and Do Now tool helps the students to focus on key concepts and ideas that need to be delivered for the day. The “Round Table “ discussion tool as part of Engage and explore is an amazing tool that works both online and offline. The most effective thing about this strategy is that each student within the group has an equal opportunity to participate in the discussion. Group activities always help in student-student communication which is very important and contribute to effective learning. However, the fact that some students work in a group and others do not, can affect the participation level in the class. Hence it is important to form groups keeping individual differences in mind.
The Organise and Reflect tools such as 3-2-1 summarizer , I used to think and now I know, Exit ticket help students to record their comprehension and summarize their learning.
Laboratory and experiments are indispensable elements of science education. Experiments provide opportunities for students to develop hands-on skills and cognitive-level thinking skills by providing an active learning environment. Being a Science teacher I always lookout for opportunities to introduce experiments that can be done at home/lab.
Assessments give feedback to the students about their learning. Keeping the diversity of the class in mind, I sometimes allow students to produce different types of work for a given assessment. It could be a written report, a leaflet, a brochure, a script for a commercial, a meme, PowerPoint slides, a poster, or even come up with the lyrics of a jingle to fulfill the objective of the assignment.
The “one-size-fits-all” approach to curriculum development and education is outdated. Individual difference is not a burden but an opportunity to develop more constructive, active, and interactive pedagogy. Schools should not only cope with and cater to diversity but bring and encourage difference too. So let’s celebrate the differences among our students and become creative educators.
Explore more
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.#ParentBlogger: The magnificent Tegallalang Rice Terraces in Bali, Indonesia By, Mr. Vignesh Kumar, Parent of Ananya Vignesh Grade 1A, Ekya JP Nagar
The magnificent Tegallalang Rice Terraces in Bali, Indonesia
Situated at around 20-25 minutes' drive from the central Ubud district, Tegallalang Rice terraces is famous for its scenic and photogenic views. The area has become one of the most sought-after tourist destinations around Ubud and many tourists who are visiting Kintamani stop to witness the beauty and serenity of the verdant terraced rice fields.
While planning my Bali itinerary, I had kept half a day to explore the beautiful rice terraces. While reading up on the travel portals about the places to visit, most of them highlighted how a trip to Bali would be incomplete without venturing into these rice terraces. We did have our reservations about visiting this place with a toddler but went ahead.
Note: If you are visiting this place with a toddler it would be tough to explore the entire area. We had to stop beyond a point as the slopes were very steep and extremely challenging and risky to be negotiated with a kid. We made a mistake by not taking our baby carrier, though I feel even with that it is risky.
Drive from Ubud to Tegallalang rice terraces
The Tegallalang rice terraces is a 30-minutes drive from Ubud. You can either hire a self-drive car or a Taxi or rent one of the bikes to reach this place. Since we had booked our vehicle through the resort, we had a guide to help us explore the entire Island. We started at around 9 Am after having our breakfast from Nusa Dua and it took us a good 2 hours to reach the rice terraces at Tegallalang.
The greenery all around is so pleasing to the eyes. We had a perfect day with clear blue skies to visit the rice terraces.
Parking is a major problem at this place as the roads are narrow and one can hardly find any parking spot. Our driver dropped us at the entrance of the rice terraces and had to park his vehicle almost a kilometer down the road.
Tips:
- Try to reach the place early in the morning to avoid the harsh mid-day sun. We reached at 11 AM which was pretty late and the sun was beating down the slopes. Add to this the humidity and you have a perfect recipe for dehydration. Try to reach the rice terraces, max by 9 AM
- Parking is a major problem here if you are driving your own car. Be prepared for a decent walk from the parking lot to the entrance if you are driving your car. If you are on a bike, you can manage to park pretty close to the entrance.
- Carry a hat, sunscreen, and a bottle of water. You will need them.
- Needless to say, wear comfortable walking shoes. Since the terrain is not that friendly on the knees and legs, you should wear sports shoes or floaters with a good grip. Some of the slopes are very steep and a fall can cause serious injuries
- If you have any medical conditions or a toddler, do not venture too deep into the farms. The slopes get steeper and paths muddy as you venture deeper into the slopes
After reaching the Rice Terraces
The area/ road where the entrance of the rice terrace is located is pretty commercialized. Locals have understood that they can make good business as there are many hungry and thirsty tourists coming back from the trek
The hike just started – notice the wooden bridge in the backdrop, one has to cross to explore the fields. Took the photo just before crossing the wooden bridge. Notice the steep slopes that we had to walk down before crossing the bridge.
Me crossing the wooden bridge with the kiddo – really missed the baby carrier. I had to be extremely slow and careful!!!
The small refreshment stall that you can find during the hike.
You will find rows and rows of eating joints where you can grab something to eat and drink. Even while trekking inside the rice terraces, there are small outlets set up by the locals where you can grab refreshments and quick bites. There is no entry fee for the rice terraces and it is up to you to “tip” locals. As you enter the rice terraces, keep following the signs which direct you through the hiking trail. The slopes are challenging to negotiate and do not have railings. It is best advised to walk through slowly and cautiously as help is not that easy to get in case of any misadventure. There is a wooden bridge inside the farm which is maintained by the locals, and it is good practice to give a small donation – to keep the bridge functional.
Finally, the rice terraces started to appear. up close among the rice terrace slopes.
The climb gets steeper as you go deeper into the farms…
The steps do not have any railing and as you can see can become challenging while coming down… ensure that you do not miss your footing while coming down these steep slopes.
You can pay whatever you wish, but our guide mentioned that it is usually 5,000 IDR per person. Do carry a good amount of change before you venture into the farms, as you cannot expect change for higher denominations. You can also get photos taken with the villagers and try out their hats and equipment – again you need to be generous with your tips!!
The view of from the other side – notice all the pubs that have come up at the entrance. A perfect spot to grab a cool refreshment and gaze at the rice slopes.
Another shot of the trails that take you deep into the fields.
Reached the vantage point and beyond this, the slopes were very steep and tough to navigate with the little kid. We decided to call it a day and get back.
The way back was tiring as we had to come down the steep slopes. Was a bit concerned about the little one whom I was carrying? It was a slow walk back to the entrance. Took this photo after an hour of hiking back to the entrance.
The visit to the rice terraces in Bali was a unique experience as I have never seen anything of this in the past. You will need around half a day to explore the entire terrace in detail. I will recommend this place to everyone who is travelling to Bali. 
Leave a reply