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Ekya / January 05, 2021 Posted by : administrator

Online or offline our heart and soul are in line with our students. True, our lives as teachers revolve around children, we are continuously thinking about them, planning for them, taking feedback and implementing them; and learning, relearning, and unlearning for them and with them. Teaching-learning is a continuous process and is similar to the life process. And, online or face to face mode of teaching — there is no difference. We care, We share, We learn mutually and we grow together!

This year was very challenging and I learnt a lot. I learnt, unlearnt, and relearnt too. 

I implemented professional humanism.

What does the term mean? Professionalism denotes a way of behaving in accordance with certain normative values, whereas humanism denotes an intrinsic set of deep-seated convictions about one’s obligations toward others. Viewed in this way, humanism is seen as the passion that animates professionalism. 

We are all professional right but we are all the same in the level of heart, mind, and soul ( students and teachers). This implies that as professions we strive to include a variety of personal qualities and behaviors that demonstrate a commitment to effective performance in a given job. These include commitment and confidence, responsibility and dependability, honesty and ethics, and appearance and professional presence. 

Humanism is a democratic and ethical life stance that affirms that human beings have the right and responsibility to give meaning and shape to their own lives. Humanism stands for the building of a more humane society through an ethics based on human and other natural values in a spirit of reason and free inquiry through human capabilities. Humanism is not theistic, and it does not accept supernatural views of reality.

When we are in the Classroom as teachers I try to understand that the child is going through a lot of challenges (if not more ) in this pandemic. Children are confined to their homes. They are missing their classmates, friends and all activities in school. These have psychological effects on them. When I do find they are disturbed a bit or a little irritated I stop for 5 mins and just chat with them. I say to them – Hey you know I understand what you are going through. It’s ok. Can you share how to make a yummy vegetable salad? Thanks, see you are a good chef.

The two terms: Professionalism and Humanism are not contradictory but complement each other. Now the question is how I implemented it?

First and foremost, I am viewing students as individuals who have their holistic perception of life. I respect them, understand that they are facing challenges as we are all facing in this difficult time. I am being flexible but firm with them. I  am assuring them that I am there for you no matter what. You are more important to me than anything else in the world. We are a team. I  love them no matter what irrespective of parameters. I show them my true self and uniqueness. We are all unique in our own way! We are different but we are one!

It’s not easy to implement these at times and there is no golden rule to make it work. So, here are some of my thoughts if you would like to reflect on and consider implementing: 

  1. See children as holistic individuals. Also, make them see how unique they are. 
  2. Make them believe it’s okay to have a bad day. A bad day does not make a bad life. There is sunshine at the end of the tunnel.
  3. Let your emotion flow through you but don’t define yourself based on your emotion.
  4. Take feedback from others but always their opinion is always based on their state of mind and it has nothing to do with you.
  5. Make other’s life and yours too easy- Be flexible but do your work. To cite an example- one of my students in class suddenly became stressed about the study and I said, “let’s connect for 10 mins after class”. I tried to make a study plan by understanding in which subject he /she needs to focus on buffer time and lots of flexibility. 
  6. Be there for others and for yourself too!

I would like to conclude by sharing that we are different but we are also one! 21st century is driven by the principle – agreeing to disagree and being different but one on the level of humanity. We can learn, relearn and unlearn only if we make the life of others and us easy and more humane! 

As E. O. Wilson has rightly said -” If those committed to the quest fail, they will be forgiven. When lost, they will find another way. The moral imperative of humanism is the endeavor alone, whether successful or not, provided the effort is honorable and failure memorable”. 

By,

Rumni Dasgupta

Grades-XI- XII; Social Science, Political Science, Legal Study

Ekya School, 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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#TeacherBlogger: Chronicles of LitFest 2020 – Day 2

“Literature is one of the most interesting and significant expressions of Humanity.”
- P.T. Barnum

The second day of Ekya Book Nook’s virtual Literary Festival was a combination of expressive Storytelling sessions, intriguing Writing Workshops and mesmerizing Author Speak sessions. There were three sessions planned for the first time slot between 2.00 to 2.45 PM. There was an Author Speak event by Ms. Lavanya Karthik for Pre Primary Students. She spoke about her book, ‘When Adil Speaks, Word Dance.’ She introduced the theme of making friends with a deaf friend.  As a part of the session, she shared a lovely video to introduce sign language. She read part of the story. Also made students learn sign language of alphabets from A - H. Students were also taught how to express happy, please, sorry, and thank you through sign language.

The students of Grades 1 and 2 had a puppet storytelling session conducted by the professional storyteller and puppeteer Ms. Renu Chamarthy. She chose a story from the scholastic publication titled ‘The Fabulous Friend Machine.’  Which conveyed the importance of valuing the friends we have in our lives. It was an interactive narrative session where students had the opportunity to predict and voice out the choices each character would make in the story. Students were excited and participated actively in the session. The creative writing session for Grade 3-5 was facilitated by Ms. Dipti Das. Ms. Das is an avid reader with interests spanning from travel, blogging to Writing. She focussed on the concept of creating one’s style of writing. She encouraged students to start writing a minimum of 500 words to improve and work on their writing style. Ms. Dipti was keen on answering questions, doubts, and clarifications that students had concerning Creative Writing. It was an informative and interesting session.

The students of grades 6 to 8 participated in an Author Speak Session with the author Rajesh K K. The session began with Mr. Rajesh asks questions such as the genre of their interest, have they tried writing, the themes they have used. He shared his experience as a young reader and his writing journey. Threw light on tips for effective writing to young budding writers. The session concluded with a quiz on literature.

The second part of the session was conducted between 3.00 to 3.45 PM. Where in the Pre Primary Students were part of a Storytelling session conducted by Neha Toshniwal. Ms. Toshniwal is a certified storyteller from Kathalaya and a German language coach. She freelances with Kathalaya and Scholastic Publishers and has been conducting workshops for children between the ages of 4 to 8 years for the last 8 years. She likes to bring out the creative side of children encouraging them to be innovative and imaginative. She believes the child acquires learning through stories that last forever. She narrated “The mountain that loved a bird”, “The stonecutter” and “Pete the Cat” stories. Children enjoyed the stories and also shared their thoughts about the story with the narrator. Mr. C. G Salamander read the extract of his recent book “Moodunit” to students of Grades 1 and 2 in an Author Speak session. Post introduction of the author, he guided the students to draw a comic. He shared tips on how to draw a comic. The session concluded with Q&A.

A skit writing workshop was conducted by Ms. Ayushi and Ms. Maitreyi for the students of Grades 3 to 5. The resource people are students from Srishti Institute of Design, Bangalore. The session began with a warm-up activity, followed by the introduction of skit and skit writing and the four important elements of it- character, storyline, scenes, and dialogues.  The students voted and selected the topic titled, ‘A day in my life’ from the options given. They decided on three scenes, character names and were divided into three breakout rooms to create the scenes they were responsible for. This session came to an end after the reflection activity. Ms. Sindu Roy facilitated the workshop on how to write a travel blog for the students of Grades 6 to 8. Ms. Sindhu is an avid traveler, photographer, and blogger. The session highlights include how to write on travel, the components of a travel blog, and the layout of a blog. The second part of the session was dedicated to answering questions and students got their doubts clarified by Ms. Sindhu Roy. It was indeed a time of fruitful conversations.

Students of grades 9 to 12 had a Short Film making session conducted by Ms. Nisha Satpure. The session began when Ms. Satpure introduced herself as a cinematographer. She also shared her experiences in the field of cinematography. She played a video that depicted the backend struggles of all cinematographers and took over the session by conducting an interactive discussion with the students. Students shared their observations and the purpose of having each department in film making. She took us through the journey from mini shots to a complete feature film. She also shared her experiences working with the Marathi Film Industry. Students came up with a lot of curious questions geared towards creativity. It was a session of complete engagement from both parties.

The virtual literary festival came to an end with the final slot of events conducted between 4.00 to 4.45 PM. Where the students of Pre-primary students participated in the last story of the event narrated by Ms. Shwetha Narayan. Ms. Shweta Narayan, a parent of Ekya JPN conducted a storytelling session based on a book named ‘Room on the broom’ written by Julia Donaldson and illustrated by Axel Scheffler. Students found it interesting and were engrossed in the story. Ms. Shwetha captured them with creative gestures and facial expressions. Overall this session helped the young minds to expand their creative thinking. A Puppet Making workshop was conducted for the students of Grades 1 and 2 by Mr.  Karthik Shinde, who has been working with Ekya JPN as a visual art specialist. The session began by sharing a story titled ‘A Pair of Twins.’ written by Kavitha Mandanna. Post narration, Mr. Karthik instructed the students to make the puppet of the elephant and Sundari- two main characters of the story using paper and color pencils. The children were amused at their creation and were satisfied with the new learning resulted from the session.

Students of Grades 3 to 5 participated in an Author Speak session conducted by Ms. Rasil Ahuja. Ms. Ahuja introduced her new book “Unfair” to the audience. Read the extracts from the book and made it interesting for the students by having an interactive session. She provided tips on writing a poem with an example. The session concluded with Q&A. The Author Speak session for grades 6 to 8 was conducted by Vrunda Bansode. She currently heads India Data Insights, a data portal for the Indian social sector, at Sattva Consulting. She has co-authored the book Become a Junior Inventor. She spoke about her book and encouraged students to think like young entrepreneurs. Students were motivated by her talk and almost all participants had a question to ask her.  She very promptly answered all their questions like; how to start a business,  make a profit, a platform to reach the customers, etc. The session was very informative and uplifting for the students.

Dr. Rakesh Godhwani facilitated a discussion on Effective Communication for the Students of Grade 9-12. This was live-streamed on our social media handles and was very informative and engaging as Dr. Rakesh shared his personal experiences and how he decided to follow his passion and has been enjoying what he does. The session focused on the six C’s such as Confidence, Communication, Collaboration, Curiosity, Creativity, and Competence. There was a Q&A session towards the end and students posed some exciting questions to the Author. It was a time of energetic and lively conversations.

This Literary festival conducted by Ekya Book Nook was truly an opportunity for the students to meet and interact with professionals of literature. Explore the literary world and fall in love with its limitless ability through hands-on workshops and a great source of inspiration to kindle the joy of reading in young minds.

#StudentBlogger: Was it murder? – A poem by Arshia Puri, Grade 8, EJPN

Was it murder?

Obsidian night, in for a scare
As angry voices filled the air,
One was in fear, the other in despair 
And it is now, you must beware
A turn of events will appear 
And in your mind, it will be seared
“You don’t know what you did that day”
“You left me in the tears”
“And you made the nightmares appear”
“My happiness is no more” you’ll hear
A peaceful end, must you reckon
But not what this story beckons
For, in just a second
In the hand of the first man a weapon
The screeching of the second will make you see
The weeping of the first will make you feel
Until all is silent,
After a crash and a scream will reveal
The other person is no more
“No,” “no,” “NO” is all you hear
The first will claw at his hair 
For the weapon might be mere,
But the destruction is severe
“I was chocked” he will mutter
“The nail marks on my neck will show” he will mutter
“The feeling just stroke” he will defend
A thump on a wall and a stutter
The remorse will make him suffer
Now the resentment is more 
On you will the realisation dawn
Only you will know the truth
You will feel only Ruth 
But no one must you tell, 
The darkness that just befell
Just hush and go your way
Leave the man to his fate
Ignore the reason of this day
“I was never there” is all you will say
For only you know
That ‘she’ is no more

By Arshia Puri, Grade 8, EJPN

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