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Ekya / March 05, 2018 Posted by : administrator

At Ekya, we believe in delivering exemplary educational content. Designed with thought and care by our in-house curriculum team, the Ekya curriculum is globally competitive, on par with the international frameworks and modelled after standards used in schools around the world. In this feature of Understanding the Ekya Curriculum, we are joined by Ms. Supriya Punyamurthula, who engineers our Mathematics curriculum at the Ekya Learning Centre, as she takes us through the idea behind Singapore Math and why we use it in our Mathematics learning program.

What is Singapore Math?

Singapore Math refers to the teaching methodology and curriculum of Mathematics imparted to children from Kindergarten to Middle School. It has been coined after the country’s consistent top ranking on an international assessment on student achievement called Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS). As of its latest reports, TIMSS ranks Singapore at number 1 – higher than USA, UK, European countries and its South-Asian neighbours.

What makes Singapore Math special?

Singapore Maths is based on Jerome Bruner’s learning theory that advocates the Concrete-Pictorial-Abstract approach. In this approach, ideas are introduced using concrete materials, a pictorial representation follows and finally students engage with abstract symbolism.

Under Singapore Math, the difficulty of a concept being taught is increased in levels, grade after grade to build a stronger foundation. Schools all over the world are adapting to this methodology, with Singapore Math textbooks and workbooks featuring in their core curriculum.

Mastery, Not Memorization

While conventional route of math instruction relies on drilling and memorization of many skills each year, Singapore Math focuses on children not just learning but also truly mastering a limited number of concepts each academic year. The goal is for children to perform well because they understand the material on a deeper level; they are not just preparing for an exam.

 The sequence of topics in Singapore Math has been carefully constructed based upon child development theory. The beauty of this approach is that the majority of students are well prepared to tackle increasingly difficult topics, such as fractions and ratio, when they are introduced in the third through fifth grades. Those students are also then typically ready for algebra and geometry in middle school.

Visualize the Problem

Singapore Math relies heavily on visualization, which is often neglected in the conventional teaching of the subject.

“If I’m going to teach about multiplication I will bring out physical objects and demonstrate how to multiply, and then move to the abstraction of lining up numbers in a multiplication equation. Singapore Math, on the other hand, introduces a middle step between the concrete and abstract called the pictorial approach. It asks students and teachers to draw a diagram of the concepts involved.”

Students also learn to use model drawing to solve worded problems – instead of trying to picture the problem in their heads, then writing out the equation to solve it, students in Singapore Math diagram the elements of the word problem.

Solid Foundation Building

In the traditional approach of teaching, one where a topic is revisited in the course of months or years, or later grades and is taxing for both students and teachers. Singapore Math aims to eliminate this task by building a strong foundation for the learning of the said topic.

Students in the same classroom may learn the concepts at different paces, but ultimately they all learn them and help develop their own solid foundation for further math learning. This prevents the need for reteaching as students move to the next grade.

How Singapore Math fits the Ekya curriculum

At Ekya, we deploy the Singapore Math methodology from K1 to Grade V. We’ve listed out a few examples below:

As part of their group activity, students of Grade I use ice-cream sticks or raw pasta to put equal amounts in each of the circle. This enables them to understand the concept of multiplication.

In a hands-on activity, students of Grade II learn that a balance is a useful tool in comparing the masses of objects

Our Grade III students learn to measure the capacity of containers of various sizes through personal experimentation.

Students of Grade IV explore the concepts of fractions through visual representations

Bar model is explicitly taught beginning in Grade II and extending all the way to secondary algebra. It is a method of representing word problems and number relationships. Students are taught to use rectangular bars to represent the relationship between known and unknown numerical quantities and to solve problems related to these quantities.

Students of Grade IV use the four mathematical operations and solve the problems in the Decimals chapter using the bar model.

 

Opening up to the idea of Singapore Math

While parents would love to sit their kids through learning tables, they might naturally resist the route taken by Singapore Math, especially after they remember how they tackled a concept like fractions or geometry.

Looking back at how we learnt our Math, importance and marks were both rewarded only for getting the correct answer. With Singapore Math, we’re looking to understand each step in the process of getting the answer- our students should be able to explain how they have arrived at their final step. That’s a big thing that parents need to understand. We may want our children to get the right answer, but we also want them to know why it is the right answer.

For our readers who are interested in finer details of the techniques used in this methodology, click here for a quick guide.

 

 

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Ekya / March 26, 2024

The Hot Garlic Soup Inspired by ‘The Last Leaf’ by O. Henry

Sue and Johnsy, two young artists, shared a small flat on the third storey of an old house.
Johnsy fell ill in November. She was diagnosed with pneumonia. She would lie in her bed, gazing out of the window. Sue sent for the doctor. The doctor said to Sue, “Johnsy’s condition is not so serious yet. It seems she is unable to recover because she has lost the will to live.”
Sue became extremely worried for Johnsy’s well-being and mental health. She tried to make Johnsy interested in the things around her, but Johnsy never replied with more than a noncommittal hum.
One day, Sue was painting when she heard Johnsy counting backwards. Sue looked out of the window and saw an old ivy creeper climbing on the brick wall. The ivy was shedding its leaves in the strong gust of the wind.
“They are falling faster now,” whispered Johnsy. “Three days ago there were so many leaves. Only five are left now.”
“It is autumn,” said Sue, “and the leaves will fall.”
“When the last leaf falls, I will die” said Johnsy with finality. “I have felt this for the last three days.”
“Oh, that’s nonsense,” replied Sue. “Why do you believe your fate is tied to those old ivy leaves?”
“Human life is fleeting, just like those ivy leaves,” said Johnsy. “I got sick just as the ivy started shedding its leaves. It must be an omen. The last leaf will fall, and I will slip into slumber forever.”
Sue sat on Johnsy’s bed, kissed her and said, “You are not going to die. Plenty of people fall sick in autumn, and they recover soon enough. Do you want some soup?”
“I don’t want any soup. My time is almost up, I’m sure of it,” murmured Johnsy.
Sue decided to change tactics. She was not going to give up on Johnsy.
“It is true that human life is somewhat fleeting, but that’s exactly what makes life valuable. Do you not want to see what life has to offer before you slip into slumber? Will you not miss the cool breeze waking you up, the warm embrace of sunlight? Do you want to give up the feeling of the paintbrush gliding over the canvas?” Sue quavered.
“Look beyond the ivy to that tree over there,” Sue continued. “Even that tree is shedding its leaves, but it is also growing new leaves. It is going to live for many more years, just like you.”
Johnsy contemplated for a while. Then, she looked out of the window and smiled.
“Perhaps I will have some hot garlic soup. You made me realise that life is worth living after all.”
Written by Aahana,
from grade 9A

Ekya / March 22, 2024

Importance of Literature in a Classroom.

"Literature is one of the most interesting and significant expressions of humanity" - P.T.Barnum

We as humans are social beings. We can't imagine our lives to be solitary. Literature facilitates us to understand and communicate with one another in society. It helps us explore the world around us and is a medium to express our views and experiences. So it is of vital importance that the students are introduced to literature at a young age.

Literature is necessary for students as it helps them to develop imagination, improves vocabulary and language skills and even enhances creativity. Literature helps them understand the world outside their home and school.

It is disheartening to see that literature is often not put on the same pedestal as other technical subjects like Math or Science. where it shouldn't be the case.

Literature includes different types of texts like stories and fables, myths

and legends, poetry and drama or even informational texts that help them explore other subjects. It prepares students to read and understand the real world.

There are one too many benefits of including literature at a young age. It is like an exercise for the brain, keeping an individual mentally active and stimulated.

Exposure to cultures from different countries brings in a sense of respect and tolerance, a feat possible through literature. It motivates one to appreciate different lives and their ways and also to graciously disagree with something that may not be right. The different characters the students are introduced to become a source of inspiration. They start to imagine themselves in varied situations. they learn different solutions to problems they come across.

More importantly, reading is fun and literature develops an inclination toward reading and makes them self-learners.

It can be concluded that literature is a gateway to nurturing a child’s life skills more than any assignment or task

can ever do.

Written By:

Shruthi Prakash

English Educator - Primary

Ekya Schools BTM Layout

Ekya / March 22, 2024

A Day to Remember: Juniors Bid Goodbye to Seniors with a Spectacular Farewell Party.

As the academic year draws to a close, emotions run high at our beloved school. The time has come for the juniors to express their gratitude, love, and affection for their departing seniors.

And what better way to do this than by throwing an unforgettable farewell party?

The air was buzzing with excitement as the juniors meticulously planned every detail to make it a night that their seniors would cherish forever.

The audio-visual room was transformed into a place of nostalgia and celebration, adorned with decorations to welcome the seniors. Each performance was filled with energy, enthusiasm, and dedication. Each video played, spoke volumes about the memories shared and the bonds formed throughout their academic journey, blanketing the atmosphere with a mix of joy, laughter, and a hint of bittersweet anticipation.

Our seniors were all dressed up to the nines for the occasion with the girls in a blue and white saree and the boys in black suits.

But how did all of this come to be? I am a grade 11 student and let me take you through behind the scenes of this event and how we prepared for this event.

  • Many girls formed a group and decided to dance to “Paint It Red” and “All Is Well”. Everyone’s efforts are to be appreciated as they come up with new steps and formations. Well-coordinated teamwork led to an amazing performance that got everyone cheering.

  • Meanwhile, my batchmate, Lara,  and a few teachers were preparing to sing songs dedicated to the seniors. Lara sang a melodious rendition of “When You Believe” and the teachers sang a medley of songs which got the seniors singing along as well!

  • The boys planned on dancing to the song “Galti Se Mistake” and their performance was full of creativity and humour. The choreography was inspired by the original music video of the song and they worked hard together and taught each other the steps. This performance got everyone giggling and cheering so loud!

  • It did not end with the students, even the teachers chose to step into this grand celebration. They danced on a variety of songs and each song made the seniors hoot louder. Even though they had a very busy schedule they would still take time and dedicate it to the dance practice during after-school hours. Huge kudos for their coordination and effort!

  • Mohana and Arshia came up with a very engaging script which had the attention of the audience. A small game was organised for the students where they had to write something good about one of their batchmates. Everybody put their hands together and made 32 crowns of appreciation for their seniors. A video of the seniors was made including photos and videos of their dearest memories. Last but not least, our teachers also prepared a video message for the seniors bidding farewell and wishing them the best for their future endeavours.

The day finally came. The 10th of February came. It was the day - the day for which we had been preparing for days. The graduation.

The place was set, the background screen was ready, the mic was ready and the sound system was ready. Our seniors came one by one and the auditorium was filled with chatter until the anchors came in and the event started.

After a few minutes, the head boy gave a heartfelt speech, followed by the chit game of affirmations then Lara’s beautiful performance.

The girls donned black kurtis and sunglasses and danced to “Paint It Red”, which got a round of applause. The seniors loved the “Galti Se Mistake” dance by the boys for its creativity and comedic execution and what made it better was the shorts with shirt and tie combination. The dance finale was to the song “All Is Well” which got the audience cheering for the dancers with lots of enthusiasm.

Then a video filled with the memories of the seniors was shown which made most of them emotional. The dance which everybody was eagerly anticipating started - it was our beloved teachers who completely rocked the stage with their amazing performance.

Then a few teachers gave a very emotional message followed by songs dedicated to their students. The event came to an end with video messages by the teachers,  a crowning ceremony and high tea.

In conclusion, the event was successful, and enjoyed by all the students - juniors, seniors and teachers. It wouldn’t have been possible without everyone’s contribution and teamwork. It was an emotional roller coaster for everyone and a day which will never be forgotten.

Written By:

Stutee Samantray

(Grade 11, Ekya BTM)

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Importance of Reading to Your Child – Ekya Recommends

Why is reading important for infants and young children?

Reading aloud and sharing stories with your child is a great way to spend time together. Reading and storytelling also help promote language, literacy and brain development. Research also proves that children who enjoy reading do better at school in all subjects. Sharing stories, talking and singing every day helps your child’s overall development in a number of ways. Reading and sharing stories can:
  • help your child become familiar with sounds, words, language and the value of books
  • spark your child’s imagination, stimulate curiosity and help his/her brain development
  • help your child learn the difference between ‘real’ and ‘make-believe’
  • help your child understand change and new or frightening events, and also the strong emotions that can go along with them
  • help your child develop early literacy skills like the ability to listen to and understand words.
Just by looking at books with your child, you can be a great storyteller and a good model for using language and books. Your child will learn by watching you hold a book the right way and seeing how you move through the book by gently turning the pages. Reading stories with children has benefits for grown-ups too. The special time you spend reading together promotes bonding and helps to build your relationship. This is important for your child’s developing social and communication skills. At Ekya Schools we inculcate the habit of reading right from the Early Years, in Kindergarten and Montessori. There is a lot of focus on reading in the library, at the storytelling sessions and puppetry classes. For primary, middle and senior school, there is a designated reading week during which there are activities like Book Reviews, D-E-A-R (Drop Everything and Read) and Mystery Readers being conducted annually. The English Language Program at Ekya also offers a wide range of texts from all genres to further the interests of the students and encourage them to delve deeper into the richness of the language. As a parent, there is no more important activity for preparing your child to succeed as a reader than reading aloud together. Fill your story times with a variety of books. Be consistent, be patient, and watch the magic work. We have compiled a set of reading tips that can help parents of Infants Toddlers Kindergarteners First Graders Take a look and happy reading!

Fundraising for 20 Eye Surgeries – Service Learning at Ekya ITPL

Service Learning plays an important role at Ekya, as it helps students identify themselves as part of the community, develop empathy and respect for others, and gain a deeper understanding of themselves. As part of the Service Learning programme, our students conduct several fundraising activities at school – newspapers drives, selling handmade scented candles and body scrubs to name a few, with the funds directed to charity. This month Grade 9 and 10 students of Ekya School ITPL successfully raised an impressive amount of Rs. 29,500/- with the aim of bringing a difference to the lives of those who eagerly hope a change. The children decided to use the funds to sponsor 20 eye surgeries, approaching Sankara Nethralaya in Kundalahalli, Bengaluru to help facilitate them. When contacted, Mr. Vikram Chaudhary, Unit Head at Sankara Nethralaya was more than willing to oblige. Impressed with the efforts of our students, Mr Vikram visited the ITPL campus to address them, taking them through an informative and interactive session on Sankara Nethralaya, its vision and the services it provides. He invited our Grade 9 students to visit Sankara Eye Hospital, located at Kundalahalli. Buzzing from their efforts put in for this noble cause, the children were excited to pay a visit to the hospital. A cheque of Rs 30,000/- was handed over to Mr. Vikram on behalf of the hospital. In addition to this, our students interacted with doctors on duty, understanding the various procedures undertaken at an eye hospital. They also got to witness a live eye surgery conducted at the operation theatre; a thrilling experience that sparked curious questions in their heads, each of which was answered by the staff who accompanied them. This was a wonderful learning curve for our young mind. In the words of Leo Tolstoy, “the sole meaning of life is to serve humanity”, we at Ekya Schools, look forward to being part of so many such activities in the coming years.

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