श्री शंकर मठम् आयोजित संस्कृत श्लोक पठण स्पर्धेत साक्षी पालांडे या इयत्ता ४थी /ब मधील विद्यार्थिनीने तृतीय क्रमांक पटकावला.
अभिनंदन!!
Monday, December 18, 2017
Thursday, December 14, 2017
Sports day - An integral part of School Life
‘Sports’- the word itself encourages and energizes us! Our School, VPM’s Vidya Mandir has always valued the role of sports in the progress of its students. Our physical fitness teachers Mr. Shirke, Mrs. Neha and all other teachers make sure that all the students are active in sports and in other extracurricular activities. Our school recently hosted its Annual Sports Meet 2017-18 with more than two hundred students participating in it. The event took place on the school ground on 30th November and 2nd December, 2017.
All the participating studentsand the teachers assembled on the school ground at 7:00 a.m.The students were very excited and eagerly waiting for the sports events to start. The Chief Guest for the event was Mr. Mhambrey, a football enthusiast and a champion in his college days and true lover of sports. Some of the other notables who attended the event with him were our Headmistress, Mrs. Tharval and our school committee member Mrs. Sonali Joshi.
The programme started with a welcome song. Then the honourable Chief Guest hoisted the Olympic flag and the National Anthem was sung. Thereupon, the teachers proudly announced the names of the students who had shown excellent performances in sports in interschool, district, state and national level championships. The sportsman’s oath was taken by Ms.Aditi Bane, who had represented the school in interschool Kho-Kho matches. This was followed by the ‘Lighting of the Torch’ ceremony.The torch was proudly carried all around the ground in the form of a relay by the athletes who had represented the school in variousevents. The Chief Guest gave an inspiring speech wherein he spoke about the dedication of stalwarts such as Sachin Tendulkar and Sakshi Malik.He called upon the participants to play in the true spirit of sportsmanship.
The first sports event, 50 metres running under-12 boys, was started off by the whistle blown by Mr. Mhambrey. On the first day of sports, i.e. on 30th November, 2017 only individual sports events such as 50m. running, 100 m. running, 200m. running, shot put, long jump etc. were conducted. On 2nd December, 2017, the second day of sports, group events, namely Langadi matches for V and VI and Kho-Kho matches for Std. VII to X, division wise, were held. This ensured maximum participation of students. Several others had come to cheer for their friends. The final rounds of these matches were immensely thrilling and the winners were able to claim the trophy after a nail-biting finish.
At the end of all the exciting events, awards, that is, medals for individual events and trophies for team events, were distributed to the winners. AHM, Tharval madam proclaimed that all the participants were winners as they had played a fair game. The Vote of thanks was given by Neha miss. The Sports Meet concluded with the lowering of the Olympic flag. Everyone had had a great time! The winners went home proudly and the others went with a resolve to do better next time.
These two days will remain in the minds of students forever..!!
Saturday, December 2, 2017
Your dream career
- by Akash D. Parab – X B
Doctors, Engineers, CAs, ……we have so many of them around us. And we students are often told, ‘Study well so that you become an engineer or doctor’. We grow up to believe that all careers start and end in medical and engineering. So you have around you many ‘future’ doctors and engineers. However what if I say that some ‘new and different careers exist’? Disk Jockey (DJ), Radio Jockey (RJ), Stand Up Comedian, youtuber (earning money through one’s own youtube channel), blogger (writing and developing content on the internet), vlogger (traveling to different places and giving information of that place by creating video and uploading it on social media), digital media buyer (buying bulk advertising space for clients on social media platforms and websites for advertising purposes), landscape designer (designing landscape gardens for huge housing projects and companies), sommelier (wine taster), food writer, travel writer, sports nutritionist, app developer …. The list is endless.
I am sure many of us are not aware of these careers. We all have somehow not searched for career options beyond engineering, CA and medical. Many people stumble upon such ‘different career options’ when they fail to find job satisfaction in their regular engineering or medical or commerce related careers. When you are passionate about something and really love doing it from your heart, you end up taking your passion as your means of earning money.I am sure many of you have seen the movie ‘3 Idiots’. We saw in the movie that one of the character wants to be a wild life photographer but is toldby his parents to become an engineer and hence takes admission in an engineering college. Finally he finds that if he does not pursue what he likes (wild life photography), he may become an engineer but a bad one not the best one. He thought instead; why not follow my heart and be the world’s best wild life photographer? My father gave me a similar example. He is in advertising. He knows people who are good at writing ads (called copywriters) and who were science graduates or engineers or CAs or researchers but loved writing. Ultimately they switched careers to become successful copywriters. We find many such people around us. People who give up well paying jobs to take jobs with work they love doing. Those who suppress their passions remain in jobs they don’t like and face dissatisfaction and stress in their jobs. So you may often come across a well educated person struggling in his career and a comparatively less educated person doing well in his chosen field. I am not suggesting at all that we should not take degrees or not become engineers and doctors. But it is important to ask ourselves whether we would love be an engineer, a doctor or somebody totally different.
The point which I want to make here is that we need to find what we are good at and match it with a job profile or career. Unlike a few years back, today we come across many courses and degrees offered by training institutes all over India which can help us make the right career choice. So a student with flair for writing can be a blogger or content writer on the subject of his choice. If you love eating, be a food writer. If you love plants start a nursery or become a landscape designer. If you love tea, become a professional tea taster.
Whatever your liking, start searching a career that matches your passion or liking. Take the help of internet, read books, read newspapers, you will get a wealth of information. I know you may have questions. Will my liking help me earn well? What is the guarantee that I will be successful? Well, first let me tell you what I have heard my parents and elders tell. They believe A) nothing in life comes easy. Hard work, discipline and maintaining good relations with people around is very important. Even a stand up comedian needs to work hard and be disciplined in his practice to make people laugh. B) Concentrate on giving your best in whatever you do, fame and fortune will automatically follow and C) No education goes waste
Finally I would like to end by saying that your dream career or job should be one you would love doing every day and find great satisfaction in it. We may come across our dream career either early or late but we need to start searching for it. Each one of us has talent, likings and skills we are born with. We should try and find that hidden liking or talent. That I think is real education. Finding what we are good at and using it for the good of society and ourselves.
Friday, November 17, 2017
India of Gandhiji's dream
Good Morning My name is Rhea Ramchandran and my topic is ‘India of Gandhiji's dream’.
Let me begin with Gandhiji's favourite song- Raghupati Raghav Rajaram, Pati te Pawan Sitaram, Ishwar Allah tere naam, sabse sanmati de bhagwan. My dear friends, you must have heard about the story of Gandhiji in South Africa when he was thrown out of the train alongwith his luggage just because he was dark skinned. He fell on the platform. He sat there for hours and thought, “Why did this happen to me? I bought a first class ticket. Why was I thrown out of the train?” It was at that moment that he identified himself with the larger predicament of the people. His focus shifted from‘What about me’ to ‘What can I do for the people around me.’
The India of Gandhiji's dream would be self sufficient and free from poverty.Gandhiji had devised the program of spinning on the charkha and village industry to address the problems of India. Now we have the ‘Make In India Campaign’ which has been initiated to generate employment opportunities for the youth and make India self reliant.
Women Empowerment would be one of Gandhiji's dream. Today Indian women are forerunners in every field. Indian women who are known globally are Indira Nooyi, Saina Nehwal, P.V. Sindhu and Sudha Murthy to name a few. Nirmala Sitaraman's elevation as a defence minister is seen as a big boost to women empowerment in the country.
Gandhiji moved millions of people just like that. Not only in India but anywhere in the world, when you take the name of the Mahatma, there is a sense of respect. Let us accept that there were more intelligent, more talented, better orators and even better educated people, but this man with his disarming smile stood above them all, simply because of his commitment. That would be Gandhiji's dream too -that the people of India be committed. Whatever happens your commitment must not change. When you are truly committed you express yourself totally, but when commitment is lacking somewhere you lose your purpose and when the purpose of why we are here is lost, there is no question of fulfilling your goals.
Gandhiji's dream for India would be that no child be forced to study but should find the inclination to do so. A video which went viral recently showed a girl of about 3 years being taught to recite numbers from 1 to 5. The poor girl was unable to recall it correctly even after several attempts. She begged for mercy but her mom slapped her across her face. This video was slammed on the media and rightly so. Parents need to affirm to their children that they can do whatever they want in their life but to do it to the best of their ability and to always remember that their parents will stand by their decision.
In today's scenario, an eye for an eye is no solution as it only aggravates the situation. Gandhiji's dream for peaceful co-existence, economic independence, respect for women, basic education for all and universal brotherhood holds good even today. He was not only a great leader of the past era but also a leader of the times ahead. No leader, either today or in the future, can match him in charisma, caliber and wisdom.
Let me now recite a poem for all of you.
Mahatma the enlightened one.
Won a war without sword or gun.
Born in Saurashtra, a small coastal town,
Which because of him, achieved world renown.
Ahimsa he followed, and headed a bloodless revolution.
Without him India, we could not call Our nation.
Bapu, I dream a dream, will my dream come true?
Will you be born again, My country needs you.
Dear friends, I firmly believe that India is on the threshold of international greatness and we the youth have a major role to play.
Let me end with a quote-If not you then who and if not now then when. So let us take a pledge here and now to build an amazing and incredible India of Gandhiji's dream.
Saturday, October 28, 2017
DiwaliCelebration@Balodyan
The festival of lights, Diwali, was celebrated in the Balodyan section on Friday, 13th October’2017 with a great zeal and enthusiasm. The classes were decorated with lanterns, diyas and colourful rangolis as per the tradition. The children were imbibed with the importance of cracker free Diwali. The celebrations ended with the slogans of ‘Say No to Crackers’.
Workshop for Balodyan teachers
It’s a constant endeavour of Vidya Prasarak Mandal to organize workshops for the teachers to upgrade their skills. Communication is the most important aspect for the teachers and is important in building healthy relationship with the students and parents.
A workshop on ‘Effective communication skills with Parents and Students’, was organized for the teachers of Balodyan section and Primary-English section, on Saturday, 14th October’2017. Mr. Avinash Kulkarni, who is a soft skills trainer, was invited as the resource person for the same. Different techniques regarding improving the communication skills were discussed. Also many important tips to be used during communication with parents and students were discussed. The workshop was enlightening and informative.
Friday, October 13, 2017
Training Program for Teachers, Day 8
- Compiled by Jyoti Honkote
Special invitees – Mhambrey Sir, Desai Sir and Tharwal Madam,
Agenda – a) Evaluation of Micro lessons
b) Plenary, Feedback
c) Valedictory Function
The morning session had been set aside for Micro lessons of all the teachers. Ms.Mulay had already given guidance about the areas the lessons had to cover. She had stressed that each teacher would be given only 5 minutes wherein she would explain how the lesson would be conducted while keeping in mind the multiple intelligence levels of students.
The participant teachers gave micro lessons on the following topics -
1. Mrs.Neha Kale – ‘Varul’ – lesson in Marathi Std. X
2. Mrs.PoonamVaidya ‘My Mother’ – English poem Std. IX
3. Mr.GiteshShirke ‘JahaanChaah, VahaanRaah’ Hindi
4. Mrs.ShravaniPatankar Direct/ Indirect Elections - Political Science
5. Mrs.VarshaPatil ‘Yogamala’ Sanskrit – Std. IX
6. Mrs ReshmaShinde Factorization of Trinomials
7. Mrs.SonaliSamant ‘ChaloChaleen’ Signboards – Std. V
8. Mrs NilimaKhadatkar Mensuration –Right circular cylinder VIII to X
9. Mr.TejeshSonawane Drawing Lettering - Std. VII
10. Ms.SuhasiniAiwale ‘SamaanmastuBhojanam’ Sanskrit - IX
11. Mrs.HarshikaChowkekar Muscular Force – Science - VIII
12. Mrs.JyotiHonkote Speech Writing – English - VIII
13. Ms. Selby Matthew Carbon & carbon compounds - Science
14. Ms.ArunaRaut ‘BasantiHawa’ – Poem in Hindi - VI
15. Ms.KshitijaSankpal Parts of the Plant ( Leaf ) – Science- V
16. Ms.Jyoti Nair Different land forms – Geography - V
17. Ms.ShwetaVartak Types of Nouns – English - V
18. Ms.TanviPanchal Rules for Everyone – Civics - V
19. Ms.Pritiksha Wade Equivalent Fractions – Maths
All the teachers presented their micro lessons confidently. Madam Mulay was satisfied and gave certain inputs wherever needed. She gave a little gift of a 3 in 1 Laser pointer that combined as akey chain and a torch. Thereafter plain card paper was clipped to the curtains and participants were encouraged write their opinion i.e. their feedback on the Training program – Parking Bay. This was part of the Plenary.
The Valedictory function was compered by Mrs. Varsha Patil. At the outset, all the dignitaries were invited onto the dais. Ms. Mulay was presented a small token of our deep respect. She was invited to speak a few words. She appreciated all the teachers saying that everyone had been very active and supportive. “Your staff is talented, ever smiling and ready to learn, so do provide them with all that they need to enhance their effectiveness,” she said. Ms Mulay advised the teachers to learn something new everyday. She also said that teachers can create wonders with students, they can also destroy a child’s future so always give a pat on the back and encourage.
Mhambrey Sir agreed, saying that teachers are a powerful medium. They can direct how the future will be. He also related a short story. Desai Sir said that every particle that comes in the path of the sun’s rays becomes charged and gives out its own light. The energy in the trained teachers shouldn’t fizzle out but continue to sparkle and spread light. Desai Sir expressed a wish that the walls of the school should have flannel boards, the school should be decorated with posters, paintings, proverbs and portraits.
On behalf of all the teachers, Jyoti Honkote expressed deep gratitude to Ms. Mulay for making all the sessions enjoyable. She especially lauded her for her excellent insight into child psychology, her acting skills and the manner in which the training had been conducted. She also thanked Tharwal madam for planning everything meticulously and ensuring that all the teachers were comfortable.
In her Vote of Thanks, Mrs. Tharwal thanked Mulay madam for immediately agreeing and taking full responsibility of the Training in spite of her busy schedule.She lauded Madam for her expertise and intense knowledge of all that is happening in the field of education. Tharwal madam thanked the Management, Mhambrey Sir and Desai Sir for their support. She also appreciated the teachers for attending the training wholeheartedly. Piles of answer papers to check, supervision and Diwali round the corner had not dampened their spirit.
The entire In house Teacher Training Program has been a great success.
Teacher Training Program Day 7
- Compiled by Jyoti Honkote
No. of Participants = 20
Topic – Action Research
Action Research involves identifying areas that need attention, planning and implementation of the measures that will bring about the desired change. Teachers put in intensive thought into the picking out an issue that is seen as a deterrent to the performance of the students or an area where improvement is necessary. They use various ideas and activities to reach the students and make learning effective.
The steps involved in Action Research are –
a) Title b) Objectives c) Hypothesis d) Procedure e) Analysis f) Recommendation g) What did I learn
Ms. Mulay explained that this method is adopted in the U.S. and has been effective in bringing about improvement in the learning outcome of students. It also ensures that educators introspect to find out where the error lies and take appropriate action in order to meet the purpose of education.This action research when completed and recorded proves to be a free resource for other teachers to use when facing similar problems.
Teachers first worked in groups to identify various issues they / students face in their subject. Thereafter the teacher participants worked individually and went through the steps involved in the action research. Ms. Mulay provided clarification wherever there was confusion or doubt. Teachers soon realised that this method would change their perspective to a problem and automatically modify the teaching method to ensure better grasping of concepts.
Every teacher participant will do an Action Research Project in detail as a project.
Wednesday, October 11, 2017
Teacher Training Program, Day 6
- Compiled by Jyoti Honkote
Day 6
Topics - a) Brain Development in children
b) Handling Challenged Children
Participants – 20
Maria Montessori said, “The most important period of life is not the age of university studies but the period from birth to the age of six.” 98% of the child’s brain development is during this time. The brain is shaped through its interaction with the environment. Educators need to be familiar with brain compatible practices and practices that are brain antagonistic.
Ms.Mulay asked the crucial question, “What are we doing to facilitate its development, to nurture it? Through a slide show madam covered the following points –
1. Thedifferent parts of the brain and what each lobe affects.
2. The chemicals needed for the brain to thrive, neurotransmitters and their effect on growth and development.
3. The source of these chemicals- correct diet, rest and emotions.
4. Emotions are contagious so positive ones will stimulate learning.
5. Effect of stress on learning. A little may be beneficial but acute stress will interfere with learning.Offering choices and being predictable reduce stress.
6. Learning should be relevant and meaningful.
7. Behaviour exhibited at the time of stress: 4 F’s – Fight, Flight, Flock, Freeze.
8. Being emotionally intelligent – Identifying feelings & moods, Controlling impulses, Feeling compassion & empathy. Use of emoticons to praise written work.
9. To achieve maximum learning we must divide the period into talk, teach and group discussion.
10. Signs displayed when focussing becomes difficult.
11. Effect of aroma or a pleasant atmosphere, appropriate sound and voice modulation, temperature on brain functions and learning.
12. Providing opportunity for laughter, movement and varied activities. A few dance steps, singing, clapping.
Who is a teacher? One who has eyesight, insight and foresight.
In order to deal effectively with differently abled children one has to be very observant and understanding. Under RTE every school is bound to give admission to hearing impaired, visually impaired, autistic and handicap children.Every class will definitely have children who are slow learners, dyslexic, hyperactive and attention seekers. The challenge before the teacher is huge. In order to achieve her goals a teacher will have to spot the problem early and correctly. She will need to use certain strategies and will have to be alert and intelligent enough to tap the available resources and ensure student friendly learning.Ms.Mulay spoke about NIOS, an alternative to SSC wherein the Std. X syllabus is covered in 3 years. This will assist differently abled students. Animal assisted therapy is also being used successfully in some places.
Ms.Mulay kept the session lively and engaged the teachers very effectively. Madam’s wide plethora of experience and real life examples, her ability to act out situations and her expressiveness are indeed praiseworthy.
Teacher Training Program, Day 5
- Compiled by Jyoti Honkote
Day 5
No of Participants= 20
Topic –Yoga, Relaxation and health of teachers and in turn of students
Trainer – Mrs. Hemangi Dani& her team
The Bhai Surve Hall had been arranged with huge mats all ready for the Yoga session. At the outset, Mrs. Hemangi Dani and her team, two volunteers from The Yoga Institute of Santacruz introduced themselves. Archana, one of the volunteers started the demonstration and Mrs. Dani explained the significance of each asana and how it was to be performed. The teachers followed suit. Each asana was repeated twice or thrice as per the need. Each participant was given individual attention to ensure that the asanas were performed correctly. The related medical benefit was imparted.
Among the yogasanas performed were Tadaasan, 2 types of Conasan, sitting Parvatasan, Bhujangasan, Yashtikasan, sleeping Tadaasan, Vajrasan, Pawanmuktasan and Shavasan. All the teachers realised the need for regular practice of yoga. They immediately felt more flexible and active.
Thereafter there was a short lunch break. In the second half, Mrs. Dani spoke about the following points –
1. The relevance of what, when and how much we eat. Eat only when really hungry. Avoid snacking. Chew thoroughly.
2. Importance of drinking adequate water to reduce acidity and digestive issues.
3. One must listen to ones body and do what it demands.
4. Importance of recreation and setting aside time for oneself to enjoy pursuit of a hobby, doing what makes one happy.
5. The difference between good stress that motivates one to act and bad stress that does harm and leads to various diseases. Stress is the inability to handle the situation or stress arises in a situation that seems to have no solution. One must let go and not try to change the world. We can never change others, only ourselves. Change the perception.
6. Surrender and abandon Ego. Control the mind & thoughts.
Teachers were then taken through a session of relaxation and deep breathing while soft, soothing music was played and one focussed on relaxing each part of the body. One forgot all worries, tensions and just let go. This was followed by a short prayer and chanting of ‘Om’.
Tharwal Madam thanked the Resource person and volunteers for their valuable guidance. The participant teachers also expressed their gratitude. It had indeed been a wonderful experience.
Monday, October 9, 2017
Teacher Training Program Day 4
- Compiled by Jyoti Honkote
Teacher Training Program Day 4 – 9th October, 2017
No. of Participants – 20
Topic – a) Catering to multiple intelligence levels of students.
b) Career Education
Ms. Mulay started the course by mentioning the book by noted psychologist, Howard Gardner, ‘Frames of Mind: The Theory of Multiple Intelligences. Through his research Gardner has concluded that children have different levels of intelligence in various areas. These include Verbal-Linguistic, Logical- Mathematical, Visual-Spatial, Body-Kinesthetic, Musical, Interpersonal, Intrapersonal and Naturalistic.
How should a teacher ensure that all these intelligences are being tapped? She must keenly observe the students. A list of activities/abilities that are a part of these areas were listed. Ms. Mulay advised that unnecessary energy must not be wasted in trying to do everything ourselves. Smart work is the key to success. Let students use various tools to complete tasks. Encourage varied activities –
1.Solve Puzzles, Sudoku, Word games, Chess- Both sides of brain will be used.
2. Map stories, Visualisation, Plot a graph on performance in each question,
3. Use organisers, Maintain daily diary, work as a team,
4. Use Sequencing, process writing, coding, correlate lessons,
5. Use tactics to encourage reading newspapers, do research,
6. Conduct Historical visits, have Street plays with a tagline, organise a Fun fair,
7. Play music during P.T. Have Aerobics, Humming,
8. Innovative and fun filled activities to learn Science, Math e.g. Kite Flying
A teacher must always have a Positive attitude, she must tell good things about each child, encourage the right perspective and tap the aptitude of the child. She must leave her family and medical issues at home. Negative vibes are harmful. Ego has no place in a classroom. Live in the present and believe in yourself. Don’t allow anyone to run you down. Be enthusiastic.
Madam gave an insight of how a micro lesson had to be done. It should cater to the multiple intelligences of the students. Thereafter, there was a discussion relating all the subjects to various career options. Every student must know the importance of learning something, relate it to a career. A few games were also conducted to ensure that the session was lively and all the teachers were actively involved in the learning process. Such games should be used within classrooms to enable greater understanding of topics.
Sunday, October 8, 2017
In house Training program 6th October–Day 3
- Compiled by Jyoti Honkote
Participants – 19 teachers
Special invitees – Pendharkar Sir, Parab Sir, Tharwal Madam
Topics – a) Branding of school ( vision & mission )
b) Leadership in school program
Ms Mulay initiated the day with a discussion on the logo of the school. The teachers were requested to explain the significance of the school logo and elaborate on the inherent message. a) Visionary mission- Along with learning the concepts, every child must realise that perfectness and correctness were important. The reason behind learning something should be known to the child as this would propel him to take greater interest.
b) Teachers should be convinced of their method of teaching. They must constantly upgrade themselves by doing online or other courses.
c) Teachers should accompany students to competitions to cheer them up. It would instil a sense of pride in the school. Students respect teachers who command. An awareness of the birthdate, area of residence and background of students would help establish rapport. They will be ever ready to support the teacher in her endeavours.
d) Inculcating and expecting discipline is essential. One must be able to recognise the student as a product of ‘so and so’ school by the manner in which he stands, walks, talks and conducts himself.
Ms Mulay said that competitions must be held for teachers on their special day. Various modes of appreciation should be used to enhance self esteem. She once again stressed on Free and fair elections among students. Ragging would reduce and a sense of self worth would grow. Creating a happy atmosphere: ‘Happy school concept’ that had a botanical garden with every plant named, a corridor right from the gate that was literally a museum or science lab with various models, sculpture, charts, portraits on display. This sort of ‘informal education’ would be very novel and interesting. Ms Mulay stressed on the need for grade wise field trips to relevant places that would leave a mark on the students psyche. Activities and sports that encouraged more and more children to emerge as confident players.
Post lunch a session of ‘Buzz’ and ‘Coffee pot’ were played. These would help reduce tedium, add joy and increase alertness in the class. “A leader is one who walks behind and allows others to walk ahead” Ma’am said. A teacher should be a class manager. She must support, empathise, praise every good deed and laud small achievements. Ma’am called upon the participants to set specific goals and work towards the outcomes. As a Facilitator she needed to look into what changes she wished to see, what changes she needed to bring in herself in order to reach the realisation of her goals. Teachers shared these points with their partners through a simple game. Conduct SWOT analysis of the class and channelize the excess energy by encouraging research and innovation.
Bring out the leadership qualities in children, organise ‘Kavi Sammelans’ & c. Go hand in hand with students and Live and Let Live was the final message of the day.
In house Teacher-Training program Day 2
- Compiled by Jyoti Honkote
Day 2 – 5th October, 2017
Topics for discussion – a) Motivation of teachers and students
b) Work culture of the school & creativity in teaching
No. of Teacher Participants –19
The new participants were Ms. Selby Matthew, Ms.Aruna Raut, Ms.Kshitija Sankpal, Ms. Jyoti Nair, Ms.Shweta Vartak, Ms.Tanvi Panchal and Ms. Pritiksha Wade.
All the teachers were handed a booklet that had been compiled by Ms. Mulay. The first chapter ‘I am a Teacher’ by John Schlatter elucidated very beautifully the varied roles played by a teacher in the life of a child. The teachers’ approach can humanise or dehumanise a child. They etch permanent tattoos on tender minds. Teacher have the power to start a revolution, therefore they must be instrumental in bringing positive change.
Ms. Mulay laid stress on the following points –
a) Teachers must constantly groom themselves to be better teachers.
b) Project work should be simple and one that can be easily accomplished by the students themselves and it should tickle their grey cells.
c) The Atlas must be used by all students in a Geography class to motivate practical knowledge.
d) Head Boy and Head Girl should be appointed after free and fair Elections and we should encourage speech making and campaigning.
e) SWOT Analysis should be done periodically by the teachers so that they may constantly work toward enhancing their strengths and opportunities and work upon their weaknesses and threats and think of ways to overcome them. This method can be used by students as well. It is like looking at a mirror. Grab every opportunity, strengthen your resolve and convert threats into opportunities.
f) Be Unique. Autograph your work with excellence.
g) Self Questioning is another key to progress. One must analyse ones attitude towards students, the atmosphere in the class and the rapport that has been established. Self audit and introspection would help a teacher to solve problems with ease. They must be self motivated.
g) Every teacher must be aware of the work culture of the school. Discipline and responsibility are important characteristics. The good name of the school must be upheld at all times.
h) Diplomacy, a sense of humour, the capacity to enjoy small moments and understanding the needs of children are essential features. A teacher mustn’t get melodramatic, instead she must deal with errant students with maturity.
The session was an interactive one. A few activities and a lot of self evaluation were the highlights of the day. Ms.Mulay signed off with a question, “Where were we and where do we wish to go?”
Wednesday, October 4, 2017
In house Teachers' Training Programme
- Compiled by Jyoti Honkote
Resource Person – Ms.Shailaja Mulay and her team
Timing – 11.30am to 3.00pm, 4thto 13th October 2017 in BhaiSurve Hall
Names of the participating teachers-
1. Mrs.Neha Kale
2. Mrs.PoonamVaidya
3. Mr.Gitesh Shirke
4. Mrs.Shravani Patankar
5. Mrs.Varsha Patil
6. Mrs Reshma Shinde
7. Mrs.Sonali Samant
8. Mrs Nilima Khadatkar
9. Mr.Tejesh Sonawane
10. Ms.Suhasini Aiwale
11. Mrs.Harshika Chowkekar
12. Mrs.Jyoti Honkote
Day 1 –
Inauguration of the programme -
The teachers had gathered in the hall before 11.30am and true to her nature Ms.ShailajaMulay entered the hall exactly on time. She was accompanied by the Chairman of English Secondary section ShriMhambrey, Principal of the school Mr. Desai and AHM Mrs.Tharwal.
At the outset, Mrs.Valanjoo welcomed Ms.Mulay and gave a short introduction about her. A bouquet and a book, a sign of our deep regards,was also presented by Shri Desai. Mhambrey Sir spoke a few words highlighting the need for inculcating self-discipline, morality, civic sense and patriotism in students. He recalled the recent shameful incident of the stampede that occurred atElphinston road railway station. He stressed on the fact that teachers had to instil in students a deep sense of duty and righteousness. Mr. Desai called upon the teachers to enhance their expertise in their special field and perform their responsibilities selflessly. Mrs.Tharwal in her address thanked Mulay madam for readily agreeing to conduct the programme and for always supporting us in all our endeavours. Thereafter Mrs. Kale thanked Ms.Mulay for coming every year to conduct aptitude tests and counsel our students on their choice of career.
Ms.Mulay took over from here. The actual training session started with Ice-breaker activities. These were innovative fun games that kept all the teachers on their feet, alert and agile. Thereafter teachers were divided into three groups. Each group had to prepare a poster wherein they noted down their expectations from the workshop. Thus all were actively involved in constructively thinking and analysing the needs of present day students, challenges in education and creating a conducive and creative atmosphere while dealing with different levels of students. It was unanimously agreed upon, that lack of time and the vastness of the syllabi along with extra-curricular activities made effective teaching difficult.
Ms.Mulay stressed that ‘Planning’ the entire years schedule correctly was of paramount importance. She gave an insight about the manner in which teachers should go about this task. “Involve the students in planning,” she advised. “Make them realise the number of actual working days available and the need for their cooperation in the completion of the portions,”She said. She also said that project work should be relevant and useful.
Pradnya Vishram Polaji – X A
A Prodigy whose speciality is drawing, painting, sketching and creating amazingly beautiful pieces of art. Pradyna has won a slew of trophies, medals and certificates in various art competitions organised by eminent institutions. Prominent among these awards are the prestigious All India Camel Art Contest, wherein her drawing was selected for the zonal level, 2nd prize in the Education Department’s ‘R East’ ward’s ‘Sahshaley Upakram’, A+ Award in Rangotsav Sanstha’s ‘Stroke’ National level competition, 1st prize in 2011, 2015 and 2016 in Poisur Gymkhana’s ‘Jan Mahotsav’ and 2nd prize in Sanskriti Kaladarpan. In the Intermediate Drawing Grade Exam organised by Directorate of Art, Maharashtra, Pradyna got 48th Merit rank. Shehas more than 62 prizesto her creditof these 21 are trophies, 9 gold medals and 1 silver medal.
Pradnya is a very sincere student, a diligent girl who balances studies, extra activities and her hobby effortlessly.
Wednesday, September 27, 2017
Importance of Debates
Nothing in this world is wholly good or bad, our thoughts and opinions decide their hue. There may also be various shades of grey. Every person is brought up in a different environment and in a different manner. Thus, the experiences that he has & the views he comes across shape his thoughts. He also has different genes. Therefore each individual has a different perspective towards the same issue. This variety in thinking allows one to ponder on the pros & cons and consider various sides of a question. This in turn creates a forum wherein a healthy discussion can ensue and all aspects of the topic can be put on the table.
Formal debates were looked upon as a tradition in ancient India. Lively and extensive discussions examining religious, philosophical and moral doctrines were quite common and had the seal of approval of many kings. Buddhist texts mention King Janaka who is said to have not only organised and patronised debates between sages and priests but also participated in them. Women scholars, prominent among them being Gargi, also took active part. Training was also imparted in this art.
The Nyayasutras mention three kinds of debate namely, vada, jalpa and vitanda. Vada is a debate between a proponent and his teacher or somebody of a similar status, the goal being the establishment of truth, based on knowledge, evidence and reasoning. The conclusion generally agrees with accepted tenets and thus Vada is held in a congenial and friendly atmosphere. Jalpa and vitanda are between those whose primary goal is victory. The debater may use quibbling and illegitimate rejoinders in order to emerge victorious. These are thus termed as bad debates wherein the opponents are hostile.
Philosophers, Socrates, Plato and Aristotle, saw Rhetoric (debate) as a tool to manipulate others emotions by revealing certain facts and omitting others. It was also used to resolve practical issues.
Debate is an essential part of an educational process. Students get exposed to various ideas and feel the need to know the topic in greater depth. They enhance their knowledge and get an opportunity to put forth their views in a clear and concise manner. Debates help one to look at an issue from various angles and this widens one’s perspective. A student learns to put forth his ideas more coherently. He learns to analyse arguments & provide counter arguments. He improves his skill in oratory and becomes a confident speaker. Students become independent thinkers. They draw out ideas and the argue upon the underlying presumptions. Debates bring energy into the classroom and provides for greater understanding of the topic under discussion. Thus within class debates and inter class debates on a variety of subjects have become an essential part of the learning process in our school. We also encourage students to participate in Inter School Debate competitions.
This art of discourse or persuasion is often used to motivate audiences in specific political situations. Healthy and intelligent debates can shape the mentality of the citizens and go on to construct a new world.
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Debate Team with their teacher Jyoti Honkote
They won trophies at Rotary Club Debating Competition
Tuesday, September 19, 2017
FUEL CONSERVATION - Reema Bhanage
SMALL STEPS OF FUEL CONSERVATION CAN MAKE A BIG CHANGE
Our world is ruled by fuels. People have used fuels for thousands of years, but in the last century we have started to consume it in large quantities. Fuels are the source through which a substance is burnt or heated. The use of fuels is increasing day by day. The sources of fuel such as wood, coal, petrol, kerosene are getting depleted at a very high rate. Doesn’t this question arise in your mind, ‘’Will the future generations be introduced to fuels?’’ According to my calculations the answer is ‘no’. Because the rate at which the fuels are getting depleted is very high. It is our primary duty to save fuels.
It is said that tiny droplets of water build an ocean. In the same way our small steps of fuel conservation can make a big change. In a few sectors where people still use chulhas, theyuse wood as fuel. Trees are chopped off for procuring wood which has a detrimental effect on our ecosystem. Trees play a vital role in the functioning of our ecosystem. So, the government must embolden people to use LPG. This dominant step will abolish the use of wood as fuels. As I mentioned earlier, our small efforts can make a big change, saving a few drops of petrol will be a considerable step towards saving fuel.If we do not push the accelerator down too far at least some amount of fuel is saved. Yes, this is true, so always accelerate your vehicle smoothly. One of the important petrol or diesel conservation steps include checking the tyre pressure or sticking to the speed limit. It is always tempting to turn on your ac round the year. But if the weather is cool you don’t need to turn on your ac. This will help in saving fuel. There are limited sources of fuel and we need to preserve them for future generations. Or else we will be named as a selfish generation by our next generations. It is our prime duty to save them. The only way we can preserve them is by using alternative sources of energy. The alternative sources of energy include all the renewable resources. Instead of hydroelectricity, solar energy can be used. We all must be knowing, in Tamil Nadu the world’s largest solar power project is under execution. This will make our country power surplus. Atomic power plants is a substitution for thermal power plants as atomic energy causes less pollution. Also petrol and diesel consuming cars can be replaced by electric cars. These cars run on electricity and are the best method of fuel conservation. The Tata company has recently launched electric cars in the market. Using public transport can also save fuels to a large amount. Carpooling must also be encouraged. Recently the government has made it mandatory to not use vehicles which are older than fifteen years. As the engines become old they start to consume more fuels.
We consider that our country will be a developed country in the next few years. But what if there are no sources of fuel? We would need to import more fuel from the foreign countries. In such a case, most of our income would be spent on purchasing fuels. So we need to conserve fuels for a better future. And yes, the fuels can be saved. There are various tips and suggestions to save fuel. Do not burn fuel as they release toxic and carcinogenic gases in the atmosphere. To save fuel all we need is people’s participation and togetherness. After all it is our duty to keep our planet healthy. Hence we all must follow the rules of sustainable development. Conserve fuels for a better future.
Fuel Conservation - Aditya Tekchandani
Small steps of fuel conservation
Can make a big change
Unless all the people in the world conserve and use renewable sources of energy, the problems related to pollution and environmental degradation cannot be solved. Blue skies and green grass, we cannot have as long as we use excess of fuel. The aftermath and fallout of the excessive use of fossil fuels has adversely affected man. Our environment is like a gigantic balloon of transparent substance in which we have our being. When this balloon was created it was filled with pure wholesome gases. However, the black and poisonous smoke from the burning of fossil fuels has damaged this beautiful balloon to such an extent that reclaiming it to its pristine purity and beauty is impossible. Man, the foolish creature, fails to see that his very existence depends on this balloon. Man’s perception about the indispensability of the environment must change, otherwise the balloon will burst and his own existence will end with it. It is a known fact that carbon dioxide gas released when fossil fuels are burnt, is one of the primary gases responsible for global warming. Rise in temperature of the Earth has resulted in melting of polar ice caps, flooding of low lying areas and rise in sea levels. If such conditions continue, our planet Earth might face some serious consequences in the near future.
Besides damaging the environment, air pollution can result in asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disorders or COCP and lung cancer. Long-term exposure may increase respiratory infections in the general population. Children and the elderly are the most vulnerable to fine particulate matter and other airborne toxins.
Sagacious and frugal use of fossil fuels in the direct need of the hour. The present rate at which the fossil fuels are being used is quite alarming. Nothing will be left for the coming generations. Now the question arises ;”Are we to leave a planet totally devoid of fossil fuels to the coming generations?” We will be called a highly selfish generation, if we don’t leave fuels for the future generation. We need to put our acts together. We must follow the principles of sustainable development. After all it is our responsibility to bequeath a healthy and prosperous planet. Let’s take care of our planet and use the fossil fuels wisely and frugally! If each one of us uses fossil fuels sagaciously along with using renewable fuels, we can do much in saving our environment as well as future for the coming generations.
The best option in front of us at present to tackle the problems posed by the fossil fuels is the option of using alternative sources of energy. The ever increasing demand for energy cannot be met by fossil fuels. It will lead to environmental collapse as well as utter depletion. Renewable sources of energy are the best bet in the scenario. And what can be a better renewable resource than the sun? Besides, it is a renewable and clean energy source. Taking both environmental and economic cost, solar energy works cheaper than fossil fuel resources. Once we master techniques to harness solar energy, it can be a vital source of power across the entire planet.
The rise in economic activity and the burgeoning population have led to a tremendous demand in the transport sector, especially in urban India. In the near future, India’s urban population is expected to grow fivefold to a staggering 200 million; rural population will also grow alarmingly. With this tremendous growth has emerged a very critical issue of keeping air and noise pollution in urban areas under control. The viable solution to the above mentioned problems is the use of electric vehicles (EVs) on the roads. EVs will reduce pollution by 16 lakh metric tons. The Government must promote and encourage people to replace their pollution causing vehicles with smart zero-emission vehicles. For this the Government must make stricter laws to protect the environment. The Government must also provide subsidy on these smart vehicles.
In conclusion it can be said that if we have to conserve our fossil fuels and save our health and environment from the adverse effects of using fossil fuels, frugal consumption, and replacing the fossil fuels with alternative sources of energy are absolute musts. We must switch over to them as early as we can for a brighter, healthier and safer future!
Saturday, September 16, 2017
Saturday, September 9, 2017
Celebrating Ganapti Festival
Celebrating Ganapti Festival at VPM’s Vidya Mandir, Dahisar
English Primary Section. Video Compiled by Anuya Shinde
Thursday, September 7, 2017
SUDHA MURTY - Manasi Shetiya
- by Manasi P. Shetiya Std. VIII-C.
Sudha Murty is a writer in Kannada and English and a philanthropist. She was born to a surgeon Dr. R. H. Kulkarni and Vimala Kulkarni on 19th August 1950 in Shiggoan in Karnataka.
Sudha Murty usually writes books based on qualities such as charity, hospitality and self-realization. She has written 2 travelogues, 2 technical books, 6 novels and 3 educational books. She is a prolific fiction author in English and Kannada.
She as written several books such as ‘Samanyaralli’, ‘Mahashweta’ and ‘Asamanyaru’in Kannada as well as ‘Old Man and his God’ ‘How I taught my grandmother to read’ and ‘Wise and otherwise’ in English. Sudha Murtyhas received ‘Attimabbe Award’ for her literacy work.
Apart from being a writer she also started ‘Infosys Foundation’ an institution that supports underprivileged sections of society. She is the Chairperson of it. She is also a member in public health initiatives of Gates Foundation. Sudha Murty was the first female engineer to be hired at India’s largest auto manufacturer ‘Tata Engineering and Locomotive Company, (Telco).
ISRO - Manasi Shetiya
- by Manasi P. Shetiya Std. VIII-C
Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) was established by Dr.Homi Bhabha and Dr.Vikram Sarabhai in the year 1932 to conduct space research in India. Dr.Vikram Sarabhai was the 1st Chairman. Many difficulties such as partition of India–Pakistan, instability of political powers were overcome by the team to start ISRO.
ISRO has total 13 centers in India and Bangalore is its headquarters. ISRO launched its first rocket from Thumba, on the western coast of India.Sriharikota, the launching station in the eastern coast of India was established in 1971. Dr. Abdul Kalam was one of the key figure who inspired ISRO to take up its mission to Moon and Mars and India came to be known as the first country in the world to reach Mars successfully in the first attempt.
ISRO launched 23 PSLV rocketssuccessfully. India has not only launched 65 Indian satellites but also 29 foreign ones from the Indian launching station.
On 28th April 2008, ISRO made a record of simultaneously launching 10 satellites mounted on PSLV - C 9 Rocket. ISRO has completed its 100th mission successfully in Sriharikota.Dr.Satish Dhawan was the Chairman of ISRO from 1972 - 1984. He was on this postfor 12 years. He carried out pioneering experiments in rural education, remote sensing and satellites.
Only eight countries in the world conduct space research independently and we must be proud that India is one of them. ISRO is planning to launch HySIS, a full fledged niche EO satellite. Let’s wait and see the success of that too.
‘Mad math’- Anusha Newrekar
-by Anusha V. Newrekar - VIII A
Of digits and numbers
Of yawns and slumbers
Of additions and subtractions
Of decimals and divisions
Of calculations and expressions
Of endless boring versions
Of circles and squares
Of constant nightmares
Of simultaneous equations
Of continuous frustrations
Of trapeziums and parallelograms
Of dreadful tests and exams
But with a good teacher
Math can be a subject of fun.
Sweet mystery - Anusha Newrekar
- by Anusha V. Newrekar - VIII A
Satya accompanied his father to the sweet shop, which belonged to his father’s friend, Mr.Ashok .
Mr.Ashok was distraught. Someone had kidnapped his son Rohit the previous evening while the boy was waiting for the driver to pick him up from school. The kidnapper had demanded a ransom and had also warned him against going to police.
“Satya, go take a look around while I talk to Ashok uncle,” his father told him. Satya was disappointed. He was curious to know what had happened to Rohit, who studied in his school but was his junior.
Satya peeped into the kitchen at the back of the shop. Several men were preparing sweets and discussing Rohit’s disappearance. Satya was all ears.
“Ashok sa’ab got exactly what he deserved!” grumbled a lanky man.
One of the men making badaamhalwa saw Satya and gave him an enquiring look. “I have come with my dad to see Ashok uncle” said Satya. “Can I watch you make sweets?”
The man nodded. He had a huge packet of almonds and tins of ghee near him.
“Dad says almonds are very expensive!” remarked Satya.
“Yes,” replied the man. “I keep them next to me to make sure that no packet is stolen.”
“Why, did anyone steal them recently?” asked Satya.
The man told him how an ex-employee named Nandu was fired just a fortnight ago for stealing them.
“The fellow had been stealing them for months! Being a diabetic, he stole only the nuts, never the sweets,” said the man with a laugh.
Satya heard the same lanky man yell at someone. “Who’s that?” asked Satya.
The man added a huge ladle of ghee into the halwa and explained that he was their grouchy supervisor. “Always complaining about his petty salary and cursing Ashok sa’ab,” he said.
Just as he was wondering if the supervisor had anything to do with the kidnapping, Satya heard his father’s voice outside and quickly left the kitchen to join him.
“Where have the kidnappers taken Rohit?” Satya asked his father on their way home. “No idea,” replied his father. “One of Rohit’s friends saw a hefty man dressedin black and wearing a hat give Rohit a small box and soon after, he saw Rohit get into an auto with the man. “This means that the supervisor is not the kidnapper,” Satya told himself.
The next day, Satya walked to the auto stand near the school. He described the man and Rohit to the drivers there and asked them if they had seen the two.
“Yes I did,” replied one driver. “When I dropped them off, the nasty man thrust two greasy, soiled 100 rupee notes in my hand. Ugh!”
He took out the notes from his pocket and showed them to Satya. They reeked of ghee! Satya asked the driver to take him to the place where he had dropped them. The auto driver took him to a deserted, old ramshackle shed. The door was locked. Satya got in through a broken window at the back. A box containing badaamhalwa and a medicine strip lay on the floor. He heard some muffled sounds and walked into a tiny, filthy room. There he saw Rohit tied and gagged in one corner. Quickly, he untied him.
A scared Rohit blurted out how one of the men who worked at their shop had brought him there. “I can’t remember his name,” he said. Satya had a hunch who the kidnapper was. “Let’s get out of here quickly!” he told Rohit. Pocketing the strip of medicine, he ran out with Rohit. The auto was still out there.
On the way, Satya stopped at a pharmacy. He showed the tablets to the pharmacist who told him that they were for diabetic people. Satya immediately called up Ashok uncle from his cell phone and said, “The hefty man who kidnapped Rohit is Nandu. Uncle, please inform the police so that they can catch him when he returns to the shed.”
“How did you know it was Nandu?” Mr. Ashok asked Satya when he brought Rohit home.Satya told him about the box of halwa he found there and showed him the medicine strip. “The kidnapper is diabetic and so is Nandu,” he exclaimed.
Meanwhile, the police called saying that they had nabbed Nandu. They wanted someone to go over to the police station to identify him.
“Thank you, Satya!said Mr. Ashok with tears in his eyes. “These two boxes are for you! They contain the best of my badaamhalwa.
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