#TeacherBlogger: Learning at Ekya by Ms. Manu Kakkar, E-ITPL
Our Schools
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 / April 03, 2024
The Power of Learning with Intent: A Guide to Purposeful Education
In a world brimming with information, the art of learning has evolved beyond the mere acquisition of facts. Learning with intent, a deliberate approach to education emphasises quality over quantity, depth over breadth, and purpose over passive absorption. It’s about cultivating a mindset that transforms knowledge into meaningful action and empowers individuals to navigate the complexities of the modern age effectively.
At its core, learning with intent involves setting clear objectives and actively engaging with the subject matter. Whether exploring a new language, delving into scientific principles, or honing a creative skill, intentionality infuses each learning endeavour with purpose and direction. As Albert Einstein aptly said, "The only source of knowledge is experience." This quote amplifies the importance of active participation and hands-on learning, highlighting that true understanding arises from deliberate engagement with the material.
Furthermore, engaging actively with the material is paramount. Embrace challenges and embrace mistakes as opportunities for growth. This proactive approach not only deepens your understanding but also cultivates critical thinking and problem-solving skills essential for success in any field.
Moreover, learning with intent emphasises relevance and applicability. Seek out opportunities to apply newfound knowledge in real-world scenarios, bridging the gap between theory and practice. By contextualising learning within your personal or professional sphere, you enhance its significance and utility, making it more likely to stick.
In conclusion, learning with intent is a transformative approach that transcends traditional notions of education. By setting clear objectives, engaging actively, prioritising relevance, and fostering a growth mindset, individuals can harness the full potential of learning to achieve their goals and thrive in an ever-changing world. So, embark on your learning journey with purpose, and let each lesson propel you towards a brighter, more fulfilling future.
By Sweta Pradeep Rao
Senior English Educator
Ekya School JP Nagar
Ekya / April 02, 2024
Gadget-free Summer Break
With summer vacation around, I urge parents to explore various ways to facilitate children to make healthy choices during their vacation time.
Last week, when we asked our Early Years to visualise their characters and create a story, most of them came up with stories about ghosts and monsters attacking others. When we had conversations about what gave them this idea, we understood that these story ideas emanated from their online games. While gaming per se develops specific skills and requires focus, it also stifles the imagination of young children. Since it is visually appealing, children tend to remember those images in their heads all the time.
I often see parents providing very young children (1 year to 3 year olds) with gadgets as the means to keep children engaged and entertained. I see children watching phones in the waiting areas of clinics, hospitals, school lobbies and banks.
This brings us to a fundamental question “ Should children be engaged by parents all the time?” Not necessarily. What is likely to happen if children were not handed over gadgets at the waiting lounges? What would they do? Some of them may cry, some may throw a loud tantrum, and some may crib. If parents show resilience and allow children to settle down themselves, they will soon find ways to keep themselves engaged. Likewise, during summer vacation. What if this is a “no gadget” vacation and parents do not take up the responsibility to engage their children? What would children do? How can parents show resilience here and facilitate children to make healthy choices? I leave the readers with this thought for this summer vacation.
Mathangi R,
Head of School,
Ekya NICE Road.
Ekya / April 02, 2024
The Eye of the Storm
In the hushed embrace of an Indian evening, our journey began, a symphony of anticipation orchestrated by the hum of jet engines and the flutter of boarding passes. The promise of adventure beckoned from distant shores as we boarded our flight bound for the United Kingdom, our hearts aflutter with dreams of far-off lands and newfound horizons. But as we soared through the velvet sky, a foreboding shadow loomed on the horizon, a harbinger of the chaos that was soon to unfold. In the blink of an eye, the tranquil serenity of our airborne sanctuary was shattered by a deafening crack, a burst of purple lightning that danced across the heavens with an otherworldly fervour. The air crackled with electricity as the plane shuddered beneath the force of the storm, its metal frame quivering in defiance against the tempestuous onslaught. And then, in a heart-stopping moment of sheer terror, the heavens unleashed their fury upon us, casting our fragile vessel into a maelstrom of chaos and uncertainty. The sky darkened to a shade of ominous charcoal as the winds howled with a primal ferocity, tearing at the wings of our faltering craft with savage intent. The cabin was awash with panicked cries and frantic prayers as we clung to our seats with white-knuckled desperation, each passing moment stretching into eternity.
And then, as if mocking our feeble attempts at control, the plane tilted almost 180 degrees, its nose plummeting towards the earth with a sickening lurch. Time seemed to stand still as we hurtled towards the ground, our fate hanging in the balance as the world spun wildly out of control. But just when all hope seemed lost, a glimmer of salvation emerged from the chaos, a beacon of light amidst the encroaching darkness. With a mighty roar, the engines surged to life once more, their thunderous symphony drowning out the cacophony of the storm as we clawed our way back from the brink of oblivion. As the storm clouds parted and the sun cast its golden rays upon the horizon, we emerged battered but unbroken, our spirits buoyed by the triumph of the human spirit in the face of adversity. And though our journey had been fraught with peril and uncertainty, we emerged from the crucible of the skies stronger and more resilient than ever before. For in the crucible of adversity, we discovered the true measure of our strength, our courage, and our unwavering determination to defy the odds and chart our course through the tempestuous seas of life. As we touched down on solid ground once more, I couldn't help but marvel at the beauty of the world around us, a testament to the indomitable spirit of the human soul.
Arjun Narasimhan Kuppuswamy
Grade 8C
#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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