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Ekya / January 20, 2021 Posted by : administrator

What learning looks like at Ekya?

“The important thing is not to stop questioning; curiosity has its reasons for existing” – Albert Einstein

If you spend time with a young child, it soon becomes clear that the astronomer Carl Segan was right when he said: “ Every kid starts as a natural-born scientist”.

At Ekya the teaching-learning process happens most creatively. Teachers are considered as the “agents of change”. Attempts to change the teaching-learning process are focused on teachers, particularly the way they are trained and how they interact with the students. The latest teacher training place a greater emphasis on pedagogy and classroom practice as another way to improve science learning.

Science not only shapes our daily lives but also has an impact on countless decisions we make each day.

Students at Ekya are all the time engaged in doing science experiments and activities. Teachers help students to see themselves as scientists. They are encouraged to participate in the interactive sessions. Teachers create opportunities for students to learn and apply science instead of just reading about it in a textbook. Some of the teaching strategies educators at Ekya use to teach include -problem-based learning, incorporating educational technology into the lesson, Engineering Design, and project-based learning.

Students are encouraged to think like a scientist and sharpen their observation skills and learn to make and test hypotheses to conclude the answers. Teachers at Ekya strongly believe in the fact that visuals hold the power of staying longer on our minds than words. The students are taught the complex scientific facts with a visual treat. The use of a science kit makes the students feel proud after they complete an activity on their own. Critical thinking is part of brain maturation. This helps the kids to order their thoughts. Students develop their writing skills by using a science notebook. They are encouraged to record each step of an experiment while it is performed. Seeing results in action helps the kids develop critical thinking and science skills. Recording vocabulary words in the notebook provides a reference for future use. It also enables students to think, reason, draw conclusions and communicate effectively.

I would like to conclude by saying that teachers at Ekya focus on fostering a love for science. This in turn will help the students to encounter the world at a deeper level.

By, Manu Kakkar – Ekya ITPL

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Ekya / July 26, 2024

Guide to Conquer the IPMAT Entrance Exam

The Integrated Program in Management Aptitude Test (IPMAT) is a significant stepping stone for undergraduate aspirants aiming to carve a niche in the business management realm. Initiated by IIM Indore and now adopted by several other IIMs, IPMAT serves as a gateway for young students to enter prestigious management institutes directly after high school. At Ekya Schools, we recognise the importance of early preparation for such competitive exams. We partnered with an esteemed institution like Career Launcher to provide our senior students with top-notch entrance exam coaching. This strategic collaboration ensures that our students are well-equipped not only to face the IPMAT but also to excel in it.

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.
By following these strategies, candidates can approach the IPMAT with confidence and a clear plan, positioning themselves for the best possible outcome. Successfully preparing for the IPMAT involves a structured approach, focusing on understanding the specifics of the exam, practising diligently, and maintaining a balanced lifestyle. When you go through this academic journey, remember that each component of your preparation—from mastering the basics to refining time management skills—plays a crucial role in shaping your performance. It is essential to assess and adapt your strategies regularly to ensure they meet your evolving needs. Also, do not underestimate the importance of physical and mental well-being; a healthy body and mind are just as critical as sharp intellectual abilities in achieving exam success. Stay committed, stay informed, and pursue your preparation with clarity and purpose. With determination and the right approach, you are well on your way to excelling in the IPMAT and advancing towards your educational and career goals.

Ekya / May 08, 2024

15 English Language Mistakes That You Should Avoid

Although English is a funny language, it has become a global language. It is one of the highest-speaking languages in the world. And to effectively communicate in English is crucial in today’s time. For students, parents, and professionals alike, speaking English confidently and correctly is a necessary skill.  However, speaking in English can be tough, especially for beginners. It takes confidence and knowledge to put sentences together and express your ideas in a language that might not feel comfortable yet. Even as you get better, there are still some common errors in the English language that can sneak into your speech. Most of them aren't a big deal, but sometimes they can cause misunderstandings.  As one of the best CBSE Schools in Bangalore, we’ve identified fifteen common English language mistakes and give you tips on how to fix them, so your next conversation can go more smoothly. 

Not Speaking Enough

One common mistake is not speaking English enough. Many students feel shy to speak English at first, but speaking is one of the best ways to improve your command over the language. Imagine a cricket player who only watches others play but never picks up a bat themselves. They would never get better. The same goes for English. So, don't be afraid to use your voice. Talk with friends, ask questions to teachers in English, or even practice speaking to yourself. The more you speak, the better you'll get. 

Translating from Your Native Language

A common error in the English language many students make is trying to directly translate their thoughts from their native language into English. This is a problem because translations are rarely exact and it takes longer for your brain to do the work. Even if your English is basic, don't worry. Use the expressions and phrases you have learned. Practice using new expressions so they become a part of your regular vocabulary.. 

Emphasizing The Wrong Syllable

Another tricky English language error is emphasizing the wrong syllable. It's like singing a song out of tune. For example, "import" is pronounced as "im-PORT" not "IM-port." Another one is "address" which is pronounced as "a-DRESS" not "AD-dress." These little changes in emphasis can change the meaning of words and make it hard for others to understand.  To improve this, listen carefully to your teachers and make note of how they say the word. The best ICSE schools in Bangalore prioritize proper syllable emphasis in spoken and written English, incorporating it into the grammar lessons. Additionally, you can watch English movies, sitcoms, or cartoons to mimic how they emphasize the syllable. 

Pronouncing Sounds That Aren’t There

Pronouncing sounds that aren't there is a common mistake in English. It happens when we add extra sounds to words. For example, saying "aks" instead of "ask". To avoid this, we need to pronounce words correctly and not add any extra or unnecessary sounds.

Overuse of “Will” for Future

This is one of the most common English grammar mistakes. A lot of students rely too much on the word “will” when composing future sentences. While it may seem like the easiest option, using the more versatile structure of "going to + base form" is actually more appropriate in many situations.  "Will" is best suited for promises, spontaneous decisions, predictions, and future actions beyond the speaker's control. However, when discussing plans for the future, it is more accurate to use "going to". For instance, instead of saying "Tomorrow I will go to the bank," it is correct to say "Tomorrow I am going to the bank."

Adding Unnecessary Words and Missing Necessary Words

Another common English Grammar mistakes that students often make are adding unnecessary words or leaving out necessary ones. These errors can make sentences sound confusing or change their meaning completely. For example, saying "I am agree with you" is incorrect because the verb "agree" doesn't need the helping verb "am" before it.  On the other hand, forgetting a necessary word can also lead to problems. For instance, saying "I looking for a bus to the city center" is incorrect because the word "am" is missing. When talking about something happening right now, we use the Present Continuous tense by adding "am," "is," or "are" before the verb, along with the suffix "-ing." So, a correct version of the sentence would be "I am looking for a bus to the city center." Remember, it's important to use the correct words and structure so that your meaning is clear. 

Saying Incorrect Negative Sentences

Students often make mistakes when forming negative sentences. For instance, saying “I no like pizza" instead of "I don't like pizza." In the Present Simple, to create a negative sentence, we need to use "don't" or "doesn't" before the verb.  It's also important to remember that after "he," "she," or "it," we should use "doesn't" and remove the "-s" ending from the verb. For example, instead of saying "He's not wanting to go," the correct phrasing is "He doesn't want to go." 
  • Using the Wrong Word Order in Questions 
Using the incorrect word order in questions is another common English language mistake. For instance, asking "What you are doing now?" instead of the correct form, "What are you doing now?".  Remember word order is crucial in the English language. In questions, following this pattern is necessary: question word (what) + auxiliary verb (are) + subject (you) + verb (doing) + complement, time, place (now).  Top schools in Bangalore, like Ekya Schools, emphasize the importance of students asking questions in English and providing corrections when necessary. 

Not Using Adverbs

Many beginners don’t use adverbs in their speech. Adverbs are words that describe verbs, adjectives, and other adverbs. They add more details to a sentence and make it more interesting. For example, instead of saying "he ran fast," we can say "he ran quickly." Adverbs help us paint a clearer picture of what is happening. So don't forget to use adverbs in your speech to make it livelier and more descriptive.

 Missing Comma in a Compound Sentence

Not using commas or pauses in a sentence while talking or writing can lead to confusion. It becomes difficult to distinguish between different thoughts or ideas, making the overall communication less clear. A compound sentence is made up of two independent clauses joined by a coordinating conjunction like "and" or "but."  For example, instead of saying "I went to the store and I bought some apples," we should say "I went to the store, and bought some apples." By using a comma, we can indicate the pause between the two independent clauses. This helps our listeners understand our thoughts and ideas more effectively. So, don't forget to include commas in compound sentences when you're speaking or even writing. 

Faulty sentence structure

Faulty sentence structure is a common English language error that arises when a sentence is not properly constructed. This can make the sentence difficult to read and understand. An example of this error is using too many commas, which can make a sentence disjointed and confusing. Another example is failing to use proper subject-verb agreement, which can make a sentence grammatically incorrect. To avoid this error, it's important to practice constructing sentences with clarity and precision. 

Lack of pronoun

A common error in English is forgetting to use pronouns. Pronouns replace nouns to avoid repetition. For example, instead of saying "John went to the store," just say "He went to the store." Remember to use pronouns like he, she, it, they, we, etc. 

Unnecessary Shift in Verb Tense

It occurs when there is an inconsistent change in verb tense within a sentence, paragraph, or passage. This can confuse the reader and disrupt the flow of the writing. To avoid this error, you should ensure that you maintain a consistent verb tense, making sure that all verbs match in past, present, or future tense. 

nnecessary or Missing Apostrophe 

An unnecessary or Missing Apostrophe is another common error. For example, "it's" is a contraction of "it is" and should not be used to show possession. Instead, "its" without an apostrophe indicates possession. Missing apostrophes result in incorrect pluralization, such as "apple's" instead of "apples".  

Poorly Integrated Quotation

Lastly, poorly Integrated Quotation is a common English grammar mistake. It happens when a quote is not smoothly integrated into a sentence.  For example, "She said, 'I like pizza.' instead of 'She said that she likes pizza.' To fix it, we need to integrate the quote correctly into the sentence. 

It is okay to make mistakes while learning. However, the key is to learn from those mistakes and continuously improve. Learning English may be challenging, but the rewards it brings are immeasurable. By being mindful of grammar mistakes and actively working to avoid them, you can enhance your fluency and communication skills.  So, embrace the learning journey, avoid common English language mistakes, and watch yourself grow more confident and fluent in English.  For exceptional mastery over English , consider Ekya Schools, one the best CBSE schools in Bangalore. Call 080-49609096 for more information about admissions.     

Ekya / May 07, 2024

What Is IGCSE And Is It the Right Choice for My Child?

Every parent wants their child to have the best education, you are no different. However, when finding the right school for your child, you are often presented with a plethora of options. One such option that has grown in popularity in recent years is the IGCSE Schools in Bangalore. It is a globally recognized board and its curriculum is designed to foster holistic growth among students.  As one of the top IGCSE schools in Bangalore, we will explain what IGCSE is and help you decide if IGCSE schools are suitable for your child.

What is IGCSE?

The International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) is an internationally recognized board created by the University of Cambridge in England. It caters to 14–16 year olds (usually grades 9-10) and prepares them for further university studies worldwide. IGCSE courses offer a rich curriculum that tailors to individual strengths and nurtures the skills and competencies of students. Here are some of the benefits of IGCSE schools for your child.

Student-Centric Approach

The IGCSE curriculum is student-centric and fosters creativity. Teachers and students contribute equally to the class, making it an enriching experience. Learning is practical, allowing students to understand concepts better through real-life applications. IGCSE schools encourage students to ask questions, share ideas, and learn collaboratively with their peers. This approach nurtures logical and creative thinking skills in students. 

Preparing for the Universities

One of the major advantages of joining IGCSE schools is that the students here are well-prepared for further studies. This is made possible by the extensive knowledge and benefits that come from a globally standardized education. The students are encouraged to become independent thinkers and learners which is crucial for university studies. IGCSE schools focus on understanding and grasping the concepts rather than just memorizing. These are the traits most universities look for in a student. 

A Community Worldwide

The IGCSE program brings together students from all over the world in a global community. Children learn how to be inclusive and empathetic towards different people and cultures. This helps them develop a broad perspective. The program also allows each child to become a part of a diverse and comprehensive global community.

Inquiry-Based Learning

IGCSE courses foster curiosity in students by emphasizing real-life experiences, exploration, and expression. This encourages children to ask questions and research answers, helping them gain a better understanding of their communities and the world around them.

Rigorous Assessments

Top IGCSE schools in Bangalore such as Ekya Schools offer a rich experience for students with thought-provoking assessments. These include a variety of modes such as oral, written, coursework, and practical assessments. These assessments offer questions of different difficulty levels, enabling students to challenge themselves and discover their strengths and weaknesses. By instilling confidence and boosting morale, the IGCSE curriculum empowers students to plan their future educational journeys. 

Choice of Subjects that Cater to Different Abilities

The IGCSE subjects are designed to meet the needs of different students. With over 70 subjects to choose from, including 30 languages, schools can offer a combination that suits each student. Students must select at least 5 subjects, which include: 
  • Mathematics
  • Science
  • Humanities and Social Science
  • Languages
  • Creative, Technical, and Vocational Subjects Students also have a wide range of 30 languages to choose from, including their mother tongue.

Recognized by Universities Across the World

The IGCSE is the most recognized examination qualification across the world. Students with these qualifications are accepted into several countries like the US, UK, Germany, Canada, Australia, and Singapore. Many universities acknowledge and accept the IGCSE curriculum as part of their entrance criteria. The IGCSE opens up opportunities for further vocational education and serves as a strong foundation for employment. Students with IGCSE backgrounds have the necessary abilities that employers value in potential employees.

In conclusion, choosing the best school for your child can be a daunting task considering the number of options today. However, if you think a strong syllabus and robust curriculum are best for your child, IGCSE schools are the way to go. To find the best IGCSE schools near Bannerghatta Road, look no further than Ekya Schools in JP Nagar. Our goal is to give students a well-rounded education that nurtures critical thinking, and creativity along with academic excellence.Join us and allow your child to delve into the stimulating realm of IGCSE subjects, nurturing their personal growth and development along the way.. We're here to shape future leaders with an inclusive and inspiring learning environment.      
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#StudentBlogger: Everything I Never Told You by Celeste NG – A Book Review by Saanvi Kulkarni, Grade 8, EJPN

BOOK REVIEW - EVERYTHING I NEVER TOLD YOU BY CELESTE NG

“Lydia is dead. But they don’t know this yet.” So begins this exquisite novel about a Chinese American family living in 1970s small town Ohio. Lydia is the favorite child of Marilyn and James Lee, and her parents are determined that she will fulfill the dreams they were unable to pursue. But when Lydia’s body is found in the local lake, the delicate balancing act that has been keeping the Lee family together is destroyed, tumbling them into chaos. A profoundly moving story of family, secrets, and longing. Everything I Never Told You is both a gripping page-turner and a sensitive family portrait, uncovering the ways in which mothers and daughters, fathers and sons, and husbands and wives struggle, all their lives, to understand one another.

BOOK REVIEW

‘Everything I Never Told You’ was the first book I ever read that could be classified as ‘Mystery’. Of course, this was a large change, coming from a person whose bookshelves are filled with Teen Fiction.

Where do I begin? This story is excellent in so many different ways. The beginning of the book illustrates a typical morning in the Lee household. There’s just one small yet major detail missing from their family portrait. Lydia Lee. Favorite child, bright future, dreams of becoming a doctor. The plot of the story is quite simple: Where is Lydia Lee? And as all the members of the family unravel their dirty little secrets, the story gets even more complicated, until everything falls into place.

This book is written through multiple POV’s, from each member of the family. Alternating between past and present, the narrative sets a clear picture of the Lee family and the circumstances that shaped them. Each member of the family has a different perspective about Lydia and her dreams, from outstanding student to friendless child. The day Lydia’s body is found in the lake, all the secrets collapse, leaving just the Lee family without all the imaginary multitudes they’d created for themselves.

In terms of enjoyability, this is probably the best book I’ve ever read. The characters had distinct voices and opinions. Everything from the cover to the blurb was wonderfully executed. This is less of a mystery, rather a simple story about how a family believed in so many lies, they became truths.

This book was marketed towards an older audience, around the ages of 13 and up. However, anyone who wants a compelling, intriguing read should give this book a try.

Rating: 5/5

QUOTES FROM BOOK

“Before that she hadn’t realized how fragile happiness was, how if you were careless you could knock it over and shatter it.”

“The things that go unsaid are often the things that eat at you— whether because you didn’t get to have your say, or because the other person never got to hear you and really wanted to.”

“For the rest of the summer, and for years after that, they will grope for the words that say what they mean: to Nath, to Hannah, to each other. There is so much more they need to say.”

“Lydia knew what they wanted so desperately, even when they didn’t ask. Every time, it seemed such a small thing to trade for their happiness.”

By Saanvi Kulkarni, Grade 8, EJPN

#StudentBlogger: Autobiography of an Object by Hitanshu Dhandhania, Grade 6, EJPN

- Is it all about winning?

The unnamed chess king
Chess, a game of battle and strategy, an art, that can be explored forever. It sharpens your mind, teaches you patience, focus, and sometimes even life. And I think maybe it has a bigger purpose, well mainly because I
don’t want to regret my past but... Anyways.  A chess piece, most of them have the same story, there are very few of us who get a master that influences the story of our lives, and I am lucky to be one of them.

Z Zip, zzzzip, zzzapip  I heard the zip of my pouch open and the bright, warm sunlight came in. I was excited, very excited; today was my first game and I was looking forward to having a good start by defeating the
black king, we don't have names so I’ll just make up one, ummm……. ‘Blonkei’ yeah, that's a good name. So my hopes were high until I heard my 9-year-old owner say “How do we arrange the pieces papa?” as he
tumbled my packet onto the hard surface of the table

‘ouch!’ 
The father took black (Blonkie’s army) and the boy took white (my army) I really hoped we wouldn't be playing a game today, it certainly won't be a good way for me to start the season. It took a long 30 minutes for the father to explain to the boy how the game works and the only thing new I learnt was the boy’s name was Gary, and I knew I wouldn't like him. One of the
questions he asked his dad was “Why is the king so important when it can move so less?’  ‘aww, how cute, bah’ the king is always important, he is the leader, except I have no control over my army, but still, a king is only named king when he is important, powerful, a hero! Shouldn't the boy understand that, what do they teach him at school, how to put people down? 

And after this terrible start, I had to play three games on that kid’s side, which means I lost three games straight, what a way to start the season ‘Wo, hooo’, I mean honestly, who pays h3 as an opening move and to. To make things worse I was placed next to the black king back in the pouch.

Good game,” said Blonkei.
“Shut it Blonkei.” I said.
“Who you talking to?” asked Blonkei.
“You, who else,” I replied annoyed, this man didn't understand the competition at all.
“Finally, someone decided to name me, though
Blonkei doesn’t seem to be a very great name”
Really, who is this man, he thinks he can go joking around with the great white king, he is really lucky I can't move.

“Whiter?”
Oh god, this is going to be a long night, maybe a
week.

So that was how went my first year in this house. Turns out the boy only wanted to play with white and there were a very few times I played on the father's side and won. But still, I never managed to tease Blonkei. At least the kid was improving.  So after my boring first year here I hear Gary was starting chess classes, something new at last.

The first day is always boring, the teacher explained how the game works. Then things started improving. Given the amazing understanding of chess, I still missed noticing some things that the teacher did. The classes were fun. My life was improving

One day, four months later the teacher told Gary to start playing on chess.com, the online chess website. At that moment my whole life went tumbling down, all my dreams, I would guide Gary to success, workday and
night in his hand until the day he became the best chess player ever, I would have a name, I would be celebrated in the world of chess pieces, but now, now all those dreams would go to that chess.com. I would not allow
that, I was screaming and shouting. I wanted to punch the teacher but, newton's law of motion states I can’t move on my own, AAAAGHH, and this has to happen just when Gary had started winning against his father,
wait ... did I just say the boy has talent?
So the next few months I was only taken out for the chess class, or to play with the father so my life was back to stage one, except I mostly won and got my chances to tease Blonkie. Every time I played I knew the boy was improving, his speed, his moves, and he knew it too. It was that time when I learnt something new.

The boy loved white, he said it was his lucky colour, most of the time he won with white. He got too attached to me and never believed he could win with black, so he never did.

In his class, the other students were catching up to him and he didn't like that, and his chess teacher would make him play more of black. He believed it unlucky so he barely ever won. His test was coming close, the test to decide if he can go to the next level in chess, and if he didn’t believe in black he would lose. And that’s all his father said that night “Believe”. That one word did wonders. It really felt weird how the next day went.
The next day Gary was all ready and had high hopes. He sure did pass with flying colours when he played black he played one of the best games in his
life. That one word brought Gary 2 steps up. It's so wondrous how just a thought can influence too much.
From then Gary went to many tournaments, won a lot, became arrogant, like every other person with high ambitions, and his downfall started again, he lost a lot and a lot and a lot. He gave up, nearly.
This state of the now teen reminded me a lot of myself, how I dreamt only of my fame. So I decided to reflect.

I considered myself a king, hoped to be most famous of all, but my hope of becoming the best blinded me to the beauty of the game. I only focused on the boy because I wanted to become famous, I hoped he would take me there. I never realized that I was just another piece of human entertainment, nothing more, yet I was given extra attention. I was named a king just for the game, and I was a very dumb one too, but I hoped it was false. I started to wonder, is there a deeper meaning to the game? Well, the past cannot be changed but I can make a better next move.

Back to Gary, one day he came crying out of the bathroom and asked “What have I become?” and again the father came to the rescue. The boy and the father had a conversation, a rather long one, but after that Gary started becoming normal. The next few months Gary practised and practised, but never went for a tournament. He was too scared of what would happen. It took some time but he finally decided to walk through the mist. On the other side the chess pieces welcomed him like a King, he had improved a lot. In 9 months he was in the nationals’ playoffs, all my dreams were coming true just when I dropped them, 3 years later he won against Vishwanath Annand, 4 years after that an international master, and now 9 years later grandmaster. In this period, I saw him win and lose, but his personality was always good. He had now developed an appreciation for the beauty of the game.

It's so amazing what a simple lesson can do, I sit here on my wall recalling my life every day. I still feel there is a deeper meaning to this game, I hope
to find it and I assure you, I am making progress.
-no one has ever won a game by taking forward moves, sometimes you have to move back to take better steps forward. That’s life…

By, Hitanshu Dhandhania, Grade 6, EJPN

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