#TeacherBlogger: Ways To Teach Communication Skills By, Sajida Mohammed English and Social Science Teacher, Ekya Schools, Byrathi
Our Schools
Ways to Teach Communication Skills in the Classroom
“The art of communication is the language of leadership.”
–James Humes
Building communication skills are supremely important in every aspect of life. In today’s world, communication is the most vital skill that pupils require. Teachers are concentrating on pupils’ writing and speaking skills to help them succeed in communication. Teaching communication is not uncomplicated work for a teacher because many students who have linguistic ties to their mother language and children lack exposure to the various components that must be considered while talking in English.
Students’ ability to communicate is measured not just by their ability to absorb complicated words, but also by their ability to employ those words effectively when conversing with others. Effective communication skills are a technique to garner their best interest, whether you’re a politician, a businessman, a teacher, a counsellor, a trainer, or even a student. Teaching these skills to kids will create a very strong foundation to reach their goals.
Some students may have emotional or physical barriers to learning excellent communication skills, and they may be hesitant to speak up in a group situation or communicate their views and feelings with classmates because they are bashful in front of their peers or have difficulties comprehending opposing viewpoints. Thankfully, instructors can assist hesitant children in finding their voice through verbal, nonverbal, visual, and textual communication.
According to studies, students’ success is directly tied to interactive, engaging instructional environments created by capable teachers. To create a secure and helpful learning environment in your classroom, you must also adapt content to different learning styles, motivate students to learn, form supportive connections through encouragement and empathy, manage the classroom, and provide feedback. Effective communication is required by all of these variables.
Here are a few classroom tactics to help pupils improve their communication skills that you might find beneficial.
- Self- motivation
- Listening intently
- Create a group project
- Group role-playing games
- Keep a journal and think about it.
- Make a supportive learning atmosphere.
- Reading, writing, and communication activities in the classroom
- Body language is an important aspect of communication.
- Always be precise and straightforward in your communication, and tailor your language to your intended audience.
Communication may make or break a career in the modern world. Being a good communicator can help you advance in your work. Being able to communicate with people gives you a strong benefit! Students who have good communication skills in school go on to bargain or make a solid case for promotions during interviews. No matter how skilful or intelligent a person is, those who fail to communicate well are typically disregarded. Communication is the most important part. It is essential to express one’s thoughts and feelings to survive a fuller, better life. If we converse more, we will suffer less and feel better about our surroundings. To communicate one’s message, it’s even more necessary to develop the talent for good communication.
Explore more
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.
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.
Understanding IPMAT and the Integrated Program in Management (IPM)
The Integrated Program in Management (IPM) serves as a prominent pathway into the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) for students immediately after completing their 12th grade. Originally pioneered by IIM Indore, this forward-thinking initiative has since been embraced by four additional IIMs—Rohtak, Ranchi, Bodh Gaya, and Jammu. The IPM merges a Bachelor's Degree in Management with an MBA into a single five-year program, although it allows students the flexibility to exit after the first three years with just an undergraduate degree. Given its wide-reaching appeal across various educational backgrounds and its high esteem within the professional community, management continues to be a top career choice for many aspiring students. The IPM's inclusive, stream-neutral approach makes it an attractive option for those keen to delve into the world of management. To secure admission into these programs, aspiring candidates must successfully clear one of three entrance exams: IPMAT Indore, IPMAT Rohtak, or JIPMAT. Each of these exams is designed to meet the specific admission requirements of the respective IIMs. At Ekya Schools, we believe in going beyond textbook learning to guide our students toward fulfilling careers that align with their passions and interests. Our College and Career Guidance provides a closer look at how we offer personalised guidance and strategic planning to help students navigate their future academic and career paths effectively.IPMAT Eligibility Criteria - Gearing Up For Success
To be eligible for the IPMAT entrance test, you will need to meet specific age and academic qualifications requirements. The age limit is typically 20 years for the General and NC-OBC categories, with a relaxation of 5 years for SC/ST/PwD candidates. In terms of education, you must have passed your Class 10 and 12 board exams (or equivalent) in 2023, and 2024, or be appearing for them in 2025. While the minimum percentage requirement might be confirmed closer to the exam date, it's wise to start preparing early in your senior school years to ensure you meet any potential benchmarks and have ample time to refine your skills for the IPMAT. By beginning early, you can develop a strong foundation in areas like quantitative and verbal abilities, giving you a competitive edge come exam day.Exam Format and Syllabus
As we progress from discussing eligibility criteria, our focus shifts to the core components of the IPMAT: its exam format and syllabus. Mastery of these elements is crucial for developing an effective preparation plan and excelling in this rigorous test. The IPMAT is structured as a computer-based test (CBT) and is divided into three key sections, which include:
IPMAT Selection Process
Navigating through the IPMAT selection process is crucial for candidates aiming to secure a place in the Integrated Programme in Management (IPM). This multi-stage process not only tests your academic prowess but also your ability to perform under pressure and showcase your personality traits during interviews. Here's a detailed walkthrough of the selection stages from the initial aptitude test to the final admission offer, emphasising the necessity of achieving high scores and excelling at the personal interview.
IPMAT Selection Process Overview
The selection process for IPMAT typically involves the following steps: Step 1: Online Application Submission Candidates must first meet the basic eligibility criteria and then submit their applications through the institute's official website. Step 2: Aptitude Test Eligible candidates are invited to take the IPMAT, which includes sections on Quantitative Ability and Verbal Ability to assess mathematical and language skills. Step 3: Score Validation Post-exam, an eligibility check is conducted to ensure candidates have scored positively in all sections of the test. Step 4: Conducting Personal Assessments Candidates who pass the eligibility check proceed to the Personal Assessment round, which may include a Written Ability Test (WAT) and a Personal Interview (PI). This stage evaluates the candidates' communication skills, problem-solving abilities, and overall suitability for the program. Step 5: Final Selection The final step involves the creation of a merit list based on a Composite Score, which considers performances in both the Aptitude Test and the Personal Assessment.
Key Points to Note:
- The IPMAT Indore scores are accepted at various important institutions including IIM Ranchi, IIFT, and NALSAR University of Law.
- Candidates need to achieve positive raw scores and meet the minimum mark requirements in each of the three sections of the aptitude test to be considered for the personal interview stage.
- The final merit list is prepared based on the composite score, which considers the candidate's performance across all stages of the selection process.
Preparation Strategies For IPMAT
Cracking the IPMAT is a challenge, but the rewards are immense. It's the gateway to a prestigious management program, and the right preparation can make the difference between success and disappointment. This section lays out a roadmap for your journey, helping you attend the exam with confidence and achieve your goals.- Understand the Exam Pattern and Syllabus: Begin by familiarising yourself with the detailed structure and syllabus of the IPMAT. Understanding the weightage of different sections and types of questions will help you allocate your study time effectively.
- Create a Structured Study Plan: Develop a comprehensive study plan that covers all topics systematically. Divide your time between learning new concepts, practising questions, and revising. Stick to your schedule diligently to ensure consistent progress.
- Focus on Fundamentals: Strong foundational knowledge, especially in quantitative and verbal sections, is crucial. Ensure you have a firm grasp of basic concepts before moving on to more complex problems.
- Practice Regularly: Consistent practice is key to success in IPMAT. Solve previous years’ question papers and take mock tests to familiarise yourself with the exam’s format and timing. This will also help identify your strengths and areas for improvement.
- Enhance Time Management Skills: Time management can make or break your exam performance. Practice completing sections within the allotted time to improve your speed and accuracy. Learn to prioritise questions based on your strengths.
- Work on Verbal and Written Communication: For the verbal ability section and any subsequent interviews or written tests, enhance your reading, speaking, and writing skills. Regular reading and practising essay writing can be very beneficial.
- Seek Guidance When Needed: If you find certain areas particularly challenging, consider seeking help from teachers, or mentors, or joining a coaching institute. Sometimes, external guidance can provide new perspectives and strategies that streamline your preparation.
- Stay Informed and Updated: Keep yourself updated with any changes in the exam pattern or dates and regularly check the official website for any announcements.
- Maintain Physical and Mental Health: Lastly, balanced preparation includes taking care of your physical and mental health. Regular exercise, proper nutrition, and adequate sleep will help you maintain peak performance during your preparation journey.
Ekya / May 08, 2024
15 English Language Mistakes That You Should Avoid
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
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.#StudentBlogger: Digital Citizen By, Ribhav Nair Grade 7, Ekya Schools, Byrathi
It’s been three years since online school started, and since then, most have improved their dynamics with how best to use the internet, and become more aware of the true meaning of digital citizenship. We have learnt how we can use the internet to our advantage, to stay informed, engaged, balanced, and alert.
Over time we have all learnt that the internet can be a dangerous place, whether it be related to cyberbullying or hackers, identity theft, or your privacy being invaded in other ways; even things that people post on social media could haunt you later on. The internet cannot adapt to you; you have to adapt to the internet. As digital citizens, we have a digital footprint, so what we do or say could have a big effect on the community and the people around us. Students have been taught about online etiquette and how the effect of a digital footprint could last a long time, and one must be mindful of what one does or say. Another must is to protect our privacy by securing our passwords and in doing so we are protecting our online identity. We should stay cautious about scams or suspicious looking websites as they are known to hack your private information.
Cyberbullying is another concern and one must stay vigilant and report offenders so that the problem can be solved before it causes more emotional and psychological harm. Most of all, we have been made aware to protect our creative rights and make sure that our work remains ours so that nobody, not even our family members or friends can plagiarize and steal our work.
Plagiarism is a serious offence, it includes sharing or taking credit for something that isn’t yours without permission since in professional environments plagiarizing could cost you jail time and a hefty fine.
Just as there are things we should do as digital citizens, there are also things we should refrain from. For instance, online etiquette requires us to show kindness online, just as we would in the physical world. One should also be mindful of how one consumes information online. A lot of information you see on the internet is propaganda and the majority of world leaders use it so they can stay popular amongst citizens. Finally, don’t spend all of your free time online because living off the internet also helps you build social and interpersonal skills, and develop other interests and hobbies.
The internet is influential; it could either be good or bad for you. They could use it in positive ways such as engaging in society or politics, or negative ways mentioned. It is up to students whether to use it or abuse it. This is the reason why the school has stressed the importance of being responsible digital citizens and worked at creating a safe and engaging platform for students to learn, share and grow as accountable members of a digital community.
#StudentBlogger: THE COOL CARAVAN TRIP By, Aaryan Vittal, Grade 4, Ekya Schools, JP Nagar
The preparation:-
My wish was to travel in a caravan. Recently my wish came true by going to a campervan which is called LuxeCamper, and my brother joined me on the trip, I met him after 2 years! which made it more exciting.
The main part:-
After a long journey we made it to a local restaurant for breakfast on a highway, and got back in the van, after a while I fell asleep and when I woke up I was at the campsite, the campsite name was Harley-Estate a beautiful place full of greenery, there is a lake, a pond, waterfalls, a hanging bridge, plantation around- coffee, areca nut, and so many things. Hey, there were cycles kept for us already too!! We walked to our tents which were ready and looked around and we were greeted by the staff and we went to the lounge and had some yummy lunch, then I and my brother went fishing and caught 3 fish!, we met some fishing guides too, they told us they'd spotted a turtle in the pond!!, then at the evening we went for a short trek, then we found an amazing waterfall stream, and played there, took plenty of photos, Hey I also took my Instax polaroid camera and I have captured some lovely moments in it.... then it was soon getting dark and we watched the sunset, had snacks, played board games, then lastly we had a bonfire, so relaxing to lie down under sky and watch stars and we fried paneer, mushrooms, corn, capsicum in Barbecue and more yummy meals for our dinner. We fell asleep talking amidst the amazing greenery to the sound of flowing water and insects and cricket sounds around!! Then the next day I woke up feeling fresh and excited to the amazing sound of chirping birds, then we went for a walk and on the way, we went to a hanging bridge, under the hanging bridge there was crystal clear water filled with big and small rocks and we saw a lot of tiger fishes, it was so much fun trying to catch fish and tadpoles with our clothes!! the old trick for fishing which my grandmother always told, we walked back to the lounge area then we dried off and shortly after we had tasty breakfast, we made friends with fellow campers at the site and cycled with them and played ball games and so unwillingly we had to pack up and head back to Bangalore!! Nevertheless, we had more fun while travelling back in the caravan, we sang, danced, played board games and guess what my aunt had got go pro and we spoke about lots of things on the go and recorded them for memories!! I will cherish my first caravan trip always!! This caravan was always a dreamy fancy thing since I watched it in a Peppa pig cartoon and always kept asking my parents to take me on one!!! I'm so glad we made it in the first caravan in India!! We reached home by evening and bid goodbye to our team and caravan!! Later my grandparents had prepared amazing favourites for our dinner, so we had a picnic on our balcony and spoke about the trip and had ice cream and saw pictures together! To wind up, the next morning we dropped my brother at the railway station and said my last goodbyes to him and that was The end.
Oh wait, I'm already looking forward to my next caravan trip!! How's your summer break going on?? Do let me know.
Thank you
Leave a reply