Monday, 28 October 2024

JDS School Reflections Sunday 27th October 2024

Who is Ravindranath Tagore?

Rabindranath Tagore (1861–1941) was an Indian poet, writer, composer, and philosopher, known for reshaping Bengali literature and music. He was the first non-European to win the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1913 for his book Gitanjali. Tagore is celebrated for his contributions to poetry, songs, novels, and plays. He also authored India’s national anthem, "Jana Gana Mana."

Anjali
Grade 9 Rose
Jhamkudevi Sr. Sec School 


Smartphones in today's world
At present, everyone has their own smartphone, whether they are young or old. A student who is attached to their smartphones can be easily distracted from doing their study. The physical health of the children is being compromised. Using smartphones longer, resulted in increased lower back, neck, and shoulder pains within youth. This can also lead to headaches. But when we use it in limits it becomes very useful and not harmful in any way. 

Harshpreet Kaur 
Grade 7
Jhamkudevi Sr. Sec. School


What's so special about T Rex?
T-Rex is one of the most ferocious predators to ever walk the earth. With a massive body, Sharp teeth, and jaws so powerful they could crush a car, this famous carnivore dominated the forested river valleys in western North America during the lake Cretaceous period, 68 million years ago.

Ritika
Grade 7 Rose
Jhamkudevi Sr. Sec School

Sunday, 27 October 2024

Reflection Sunday The 27th October 2024

Sunday School No. 160
- From My Name Is Cinnamon- 1. What was your takeaway from the session today? 2. What were the key points in the chapter? 3. Who is Rabindranath Tagore? 4. What's so special about T Rex 5. Importance of reflection and clear thought 6. Have you ever read a magazine? What do you like most about it? 7. Smartphones in today's world 8. Life is all about balance - From The Hidden Life Of Trees 1. Why is the world full of colour? 2. What is your takeaway from today’s session? 3. What do we do for trees? 4. Do trees have a life of their own? How can humans learn to respect that? 5. Importance of "balance" in the forest 6. Taking care of trees and nature 7. How can we have a bolder approach to wilderness?
"If we use our knowledge to look after them, they will look after us in the future." These are some suggestions you can choose from. Looking forward to seeing your wonderful and thoughtful reflections! You can email your reflections to - mk@learningforward.org.in

Key Takeaways:
  • Launched the "Joy of Giving" initiative, inspired by Doon School's legacy of service. Introduced on the 27th of October, the day the school opened in 1935.
  • Read and discussed chapters on forests/trees and My Name is Cinnamon - emphasising reflection
  • The upcoming Retreat (Nov 13-16) at Arthur Foot Academy will focus on service and experience nature on groind zero.
    New book "The Inner Life of Animals" will open at The Retreat on 15th November 2024

    Joy of Giving
  • Aims to promote service, skills, sports, and study among partner schools
  • Activities include resource sharing, volunteering, community projects
  • Kunal drafted a comprehensive post outlining the initiative's vision and activitie
The poll results for the questions- Do you read books/magazines?

Saturday, 26 October 2024

GSA Calendar November 2024


My Good School every Sunday
3rd November 2024
Christa Campsall MGI Book II Chapter 7
My Guide Inside
My Name Is Cinnamon

10th November 2024
My Name Is Cinnamon 
The Hidden Life Of Trees - concluding session
The Impact Team Meeting

13th – 16th November

Fireside Chat with Christa Campsall - Book III Chapter 2

We turn the pages of two new books!
The Inner Life Of Animals 
My Good School - 4.00 PM on 15th Nov
Shomie Das The Man Who Saw Tomorrow
The Teachers’ Academy 5.30 PM on 15th Nov
Both sessions will be live on Zoom

17th November 
Amardeep Singh
Screening of Episode 11
Allegory: A Tapestry of Guru Nanak's Travels
The Inner Life Of Animals

24th November 2024
My Name Is Cinnamon
The Inner Life Of Animals
The Impact Team Meeting

Good Schools India Journal
2nd November 2024
Joy Of Learning - post by Sandeep Dutt
15th November 2024
2 Girls 1 Mic - Oshi and Simar
29th November 2024
Where Passion Meets Education – Nisha Bhakar

The Teacher's Academy
2nd November - book concludes
Chapter 11 Wanted Back-bencher Last-ranker Teacher 
15th, 23rd and 30th
Book reading - Shomie Das The Man Who Saw Tomorrow


Wednesday, 23 October 2024

How does your mind process? - Reveda Bhatt


I sit down at my laptop today after months maybe, to write. Well, I don’t know what to write but let’s see where my pen takes me  (keyboard being the pen). The mind is very prone to distractions and when you go ahead with what your mind says, maybe you trap yourself in, somewhere. It seems as if that is what is meant for you to do at that moment. 

You’ll think that what I am saying does not make any sense but actually, it is your mind, not you. Herein, if you understand, the last line has a very deep meaning are different from your mind, your looks, and even your body-“You” are not them. If seen that way, technically, by following your mind, you are ignoring “yourself.” See, the mind is a very unstable thing that lures you into doing things you normally wouldn’t and makes it feel like half of your “meaning” lies in doing so. 

So, I believe, that rather than taking the mind to be as your “controller,” or “dictator,” taking it as an “advisor” is more advisable.

All this sounds weird but it is true. And when it makes sense to you, allow me to tell you that having control over your mind, when living in the materialistic world is next to impossible? How can that be when our “full-attention” span is nearly 8.25 seconds! Therefore, it might be difficult for reaching to even one of its levels is a time-taking process. However, it is just “next to impossible,” not impossible.

One can do so because as said in the poem ‘Invictus’ by William Ernest Henley,
“I am the master of my fate,
I am the captain of my soul.”

Reveda Bhatt

The Aryan School

Joy Of Giving

My Good School Retreat 2024, from 13th to 16th November 2024. 

Don't miss out—scroll down to discover how you can be a part of something amazing! 


 

 JOY OF GIVING by Learning Forward India Foundation


**JOY OF GIVING with Learning Forward India Foundation**

Kunal Rajpurohit has crafted an incredible roadmap for the Joy Of Giving initiative under the Good Schools Alliance. Join us in making a difference and lend a helping hand to the students and community at the Arthur Foot Academy. Together, we can spark joy and create brighter futures! Let's do this!

Monday, 21 October 2024

Relaxation and peace in the forest and nature - Sanvi Rai


People often find profound peace in forests and nature due to a harmonious blend of sensory experiences and psychological benefits. The calming sounds of rustling leaves, chirping birds, and babbling brooks create a soothing auditory environment that helps to alleviate stress and promote relaxation. Visually, the vibrant hues of greenery, the subtle intricacies of flowers, and the expansive skies contribute to a sense of beauty and tranquility that transcends daily life. In nature, individuals can disconnect from the incessant barrage of technology and urban noise, allowing for much-needed mental clarity and a reprieve from the pressures of modern life. The natural rhythms of the environment—such as the rising and setting of the sun, seasonal changes, and animal behaviors—offer comforting structure and a sense of order, reinforcing our connection to the world around us. 

This intrinsic affinity for nature is encapsulated in the biophilia hypothesis, which posits that humans possess an inherent love for the natural world; this connection fosters positive emotions and a feeling of belonging that is vital for well-being. Furthermore, nature encourages mindfulness, inviting individuals to immerse themselves in the present moment by observing the intricate details of their surroundings, such as the texture of bark or the dance of clouds overhead. This mindful engagement can serve to deepen one’s sense of presence and diminish worries about the past or future. The physical benefits of spending time outdoors, typically involving activities like hiking, walking, or cycling, also play a significant role; these activities promote the release of endorphins, which can elevate mood and reduce stress. 

Nature can be a sanctuary for emotional healing, providing a serene backdrop for reflection and contemplation, encouraging gratitude, and fostering inner peace. Additionally, shared experiences in natural settings can enhance social connections through family outings, friendships, or community events, creating lasting memories and deepening bonds.

For many, nature fosters a spiritual connection, inspiring feelings of awe and reverence for life and the environment. This connection can be tied to specific religious beliefs or simply stem from a profound appreciation of the beauty and complexity of the world. 

Finally, witnessing the richness of biodiversity and being immersed in various ecosystems often ignites a sense of wonder that fosters gratitude and contentment. Overall, the amalgamation of these factors contributes to the peace and tranquility individuals often experience in forests and nature, making it a vital aspect of human well-being.

Sanvi Rai
Sunbeam Hostel Bhagwanpur

JDS diary - Sunday School 20th October 2024


Why is the world full of colour?
The world is full of colours because light reflects off objects at different wavelengths, and our eyes perceive those wavelengths as different colours.

Life in Kolkata
Life in Kolkata is a blend of rich cultural heritage, intellectual vibrancy, and tradition. Known as the "Cultural Capital" of India, it thrives on art, literature, and festivals like Durga Puja. The city is also an intellectual hub with prestigious universities, political activism, and a strong sense of community, offering a unique mix of modernity and tradition.

Anjali Bishnoi
Grade 9 Rose
Jhamkudevi Sen Sec School

What does self-reflection mean to you?
For me, self-reflection is the way to express yourself. It helps you to understand yourself more and help others to create a perspective about your view and nature. It also helps you to build self-confidence and encourages a level of self-awareness and consciousness about your practice. It also enables you to identify the areas of improvement and also areas where you are strong
 Nancy
 Grade 9 Lotus
 Jhamkudevi Sen Sec School

Kolkata Trams
The Kolkata tram system is an LRT that servers the Kolkata, Kolkata tram system being started in 1873, The Kolkata tram is the oldest operating tram network in the world. The Kolkata tram is the only tram system operating in India. Some old age and young people of Kolkata love to travel by tram.
Harshpreet 
Jhamkudevi Sen Sec School

Relaxation and peace in the forest and nature
A beautiful scenery, gentle sounds, and a nice scent contribute to relaxation. Being in nature, or even viewing scenes of nature, reduces anger, fear, and stress and increases pleasant feelings.

Why does the sun rise earlier in Kolkata?
The Sun rises from the east and sets in the west. This apparent movement is caused by the earth's rotation from west to east. Kolkata is on the East side. So the sun rises earlier in Kolkata.
Lavneet 
Grade 9 
Jhamkudevi Sen. Sec. School

Colors In Nature - Simrat Kaur

Colours in nature often serve specific functions that have evolved. For example, the vibrant colours of flowers attract pollinators such as bees, birds, and butterflies, ensuring the reproductive success of plant species. Similarly, some trees change colour in autumn as part of a process that helps them conserve energy for the winter months. Trees and plants may use colour to signal various states or conditions. For example, the changing colours of leaves can indicate nutrient shifts within the tree or environmental changes. 

Wohlleben discusses how trees "communicate" with each other through their root systems and even via their outward appearance, like changing leaf colour in response to stress. Colours can also serve as a means of protection. For example, certain trees and plants have evolved colours that help them blend into their environment, avoiding herbivores. Conversely, bright colours in some plants may warn potential predators that they are toxic or inedible. 

The book's broader message is that colours are not merely aesthetic but have evolved to fulfil ecological functions that maintain the balance and harmony of nature. The natural world's vibrancy reflects life's complexity and the interdependence of all living things.

Simrat Kaur
Class 9th
Sunbeam English School Bhagwanpur

Little Arfa at The Railway Museum

Throughout my childhood, my parents used to take me to different exquisite places every Sunday. I have visited several museums in my life, but the most memorable one was The Railway Museum. I remember going to the railway museum twice or thrice in my life. It was that time before puberty when the world seemed bright and merry.

My first memory was riding the Jolly train with my parents, wearing my favorite pink sunglasses while enjoying a Lottie choco pie. I was obsessed with Lottie choco pie then, and it was a great coincidence that we both came into being in 2010. After the ride, we went to see the control station of a train. I was fascinated by the amount of levers and buttons there. 

Being a train driver must have been so cool! Then, we went to see the exhibits that were inside. On the way there, we came across a snake charmer with his dancing cobra. When the charmer played his pungi the snake slithered out of its jute bag and began dancing in a back-and-forth motion like it would attack us at any moment. I was so scared that we quickly moved on, so we couldn’t witness the whole performance. When we reached the exhibits, I saw all the parts of the trains and the different types of trains that ran in India. There were so many that I could easily say there were over a hundred. There were also miniature models of some trains. I looked at those tiny dummy trains wondering what the miniature people must be thinking seeing a giant with big, curious eyes spectating them in awe. 

Finally, it was time to leave. I remember that while leaving, I bought a big Shaka lakaboom-boom pencil which, I think, has a special place. It resides in every Indian’s heart
and has been a part of many people’s childhood.

Arfa Khan
Grade 9
Ahlcon Public School

Sunday, 20 October 2024

Reflections Sunday The 20th October

Sunday School No. 159

- From My Name Is Cinnamon- 1. What was your takeaway from the session today? 2. What were the key points in the chapter? 3. Life In Kolkata 4. When have you ever "hidden" something from your elders? What are the things you don't tell them and why? 5. Importance of reflection and clear thoughts. 6. Write about Kolkata trams. 7. Why does the sun rise earlier in Kolkata? 8. What museums have you visited? 9. What does self-reflection mean to you? - From The Hidden Life Of Trees – 1. Why is the world full of color? 2. What is your takeaway from today’s session? 3. How does every material absorb light? 4. Why do you feel relaxed and peaceful in forests and nature? 5. Mechanism of a "sunblock" 6. What would happen if the leaves of trees were black? "The forest is transfused with a subdued green light that just happens to have a relaxing effect on the human psyche." These are some suggestions you can choose from. Looking forward to seeing your wonderful and thoughtful reflections!

You can email your reflections to - mk@learningforward.org.in

Key Highlights of the Session:
    
         Book Reading Activity:
  • The session began with the reading of selected books, aimed at developing students' reading habits, and comprehension skills, and fostering a love for literature. Students actively participated in the discussion around the stories, highlighting important life lessons and moral values.
  • This activity helped students improve their critical thinking and encouraged them to draw connections between the stories and their personal experiences.

  • Discussion on Note-Taking vs. Reflection:
  • A significant part of the session was dedicated to explaining the difference between note-taking and reflection:
  • Note-taking was described as the process of jotting down important information during a lesson or reading, capturing facts and key points.
  • Reflection was presented as a deeper process where students look back at what they have learned, think critically, and form personal insights. Reflection helps in solidifying knowledge and fostering self-awareness.
  • Students and teachers were encouraged to balance both practices, as note-taking ensures accuracy, while reflection promotes meaningful learning.

  • Retreat Plan and Registration:
  • The session also covered important details regarding the upcoming Retreat Plan. The retreat is designed to promote personal growth, collaboration, and self-reflection for students and staff alike.
  • The reasons for joining the retreat were discussed, emphasizing the benefits of stepping outside the regular school routine to engage in fun, educational activities that promote teamwork, leadership, and creative problem-solving.
  • The last date for retreat registration was announced as 30th October, and students were reminded to complete the registration process before the deadline.
Conclusion:
The Sunday School Reading Session was a successful blend of reading, critical discussion, and important announcements. By engaging in book reading and understanding the importance of both note-taking and reflection, students are better equipped to process and retain information in a meaningful way. The session also served as an excellent platform to brief parents and students on the upcoming retreat and its potential benefits.
 
Next Steps:
  • Students were reminded to complete the retreat registration by 30th October.
  • Students are encouraged to continue practicing both note-taking and reflective learning in their day-to-day studies.

Sunday, 13 October 2024

Reflections Sunday The 13th October 2024

Sunday School No. 158

-Guru Nanak Docuseries-
1. What was your takeaway from the session today? 
2. What were the key points in the episode? 
3. Wisdom, Right Knowledge, and Intellect- How can you connect with these?
4. What could be the true meaning of worship and religion? 
5. Importance of reflection and clear thought 
6. According to you what is the real meaning of the "essence"? 
7. What is the real purpose of a "pilgrim"? 
8. Would you learn the Gurumukhi script to better understand Guru Nanak's teachings? 
9. What importance does Guru Nanak's "message of oneness" hold? 
10. Have the boundaries divided us or made us even stronger? 
11. How did Dakha get its name?

Rishona added: What's evident in the series is, first, the feeling of oneness and the true belief in oneness. Today, it isn't the physical boundaries that divide us but the emotional boundaries we make and the beliefs that we make that may divide us. This sense of oneness is essential in today’s world. Second, the fact that Guru Nanak goes beyond religion. The true meaning and accurate understanding of it. That belief that religion is beyond prayers and names is lovely. Reflect on this.

- From The Hidden Life Of Trees –
1. Why is the forest known as the epitome of healthy air? 
2. What is your takeaway from today’s session? 
3. What happens when a thicker coat is formed on leaves? 
4. How does a tree breathe? 
5. How do trees survive? 
6. What would happen if tree roots don't breathe? 
7. Role of algae activity in the ocean 8. Do trees sleep and how?

Thanks to Rishona Chopra for the valuable inupts.
These are some suggestions you can choose from. Looking forward to seeing your wonderful and thoughtful reflections! You can email your reflections to - mk@learningforward.org.in

My Good School Sunday 13-10-2024

Key Takeaways

  • Explored Episode 10 of Guru Nanak documentary, covering his travels from Bihar to Bangladesh and Assam
  • Discussed key themes: oneness, women's empowerment, breaking religious boundaries, self-reflection
  • Read chapter on "Healthy Forest Air" from "The Hidden Life of Trees", examining trees' role in air purification and oxygen production
  • Promoted upcoming retreat at My Good School from Nov 13-16, featuring forest immersion and book discussions

Topics

Guru Nanak Documentary Discussion

  • Amardeep Singh provided context on Episode 10, covering Guru Nanak's journey from Bihar to Bangladesh and Assam
  • Highlighted Guru Nanak's teachings on:
    • Oneness and universal brotherhood, transcending religious boundaries
    • Women's empowerment, advocating for gender equality 500 years ago
    • Self-reflection and wisdom as tools for spiritual growth
  • Discussed lasting impact of Guru Nanak's philosophy, with followers still present in Bangladesh today
  • Explored metaphorical interpretations of stories, e.g. Bhai Mardana's "transformation" representing loss of rational thinking

The Hidden Life of Trees - Forest Air Chapter

  • Trees act as natural air filters, trapping 20,000 tons of particles per square mile annually
  • Forests produce 29 tons of oxygen per square mile daily during summer
  • Trees need rest and are negatively impacted by constant artificial light
  • Discussed importance of allowing indoor plants to rest at night and have access to natural light
  • Explored how trees "breathe" through leaf stomata and roots

My Good School Retreat

  • Upcoming retreat from Nov 13-16 at Khan Farm, Dehradun
  • Features forest immersion, book discussions on "The Inner Life of Animals" and "The Hidden Life of Trees"
  • Cost: 15,000 rupees per person, all-inclusive for 4 days/3 nights
  • Fireside chat with Krista from Canada on Children's Day (Nov 14)
  • Limited to 50 delegates; open to principals, teachers, and students

Next Steps

  • Participants to reflect on self-reflection techniques and importance of oneness
  • Research phytoncides and their effects on human health
  • Consider registering for the My Wood School retreat (Nov 13-16)
  • Read posts on Joy of Learning Diaries, including Rishona's reflection on oneness
  • Manisha to compile reflections from participants for blog post

Action Items

  • Write & submit reflection on women's empowerment message from Guru Nanak documentary to Manisha for blog post
  • Write reflection on self-reflection concept from Guru Nanak documentary for Joy of Learning blog
  • Research & add info to reflection post on how Dhaka got its name (beyond what was mentioned in documentary).
  • Compile reflection post for Joy of Learning blog - include Rishona's quote on oneness, add prompts from Sandeep Dutt's telegram msg.

Friday, 11 October 2024

Meet and Greet with Anant Narayan Mahadevan

‘Once Upon A Prime Time’, book reading with Ananth Narayan Mahadevan.

Students from the Doon International School attended the event hosted at The English Book Depot. They interacted with the author and crew of the film Pastt Tense, which is being shot in Uttarakhand by National Award-winning filmmaker and actor Ananth Narayan Mahadevan

The Meet and Greet was hosted by Garhwal Post and The English Book Depot. Satish Sharma, the Editor of Garhwal Post, the Editorial Board, special invitees, and guests thronged the Book Cafe at 7:00 p.m. on October 10, 2024; the event lasted over an hour and a half. Book reading was followed with a question and answer session with the author. Complete story will be published in The Garhwal Post on the 12th of October 2024*.


Anant Mahadevan a famous actor, director, writer in both the Marathi and Hindi film industry. He was born on 28th August in the year 1950 in Thrissur, United State Of Travancore And Cochin, India. He is also known as Anant Narayan Mahadevan. He started his film career in the year 1984. At present (2024) he is 74 years old. Having been an integral part of the Indian television serials and Hindi movies since the 1980s, he is also involved in the professional English and Hindi theatre. His favorite actors are Guru Dutt and Stephen Lang. - IMDb Mini Biography By: Just Marathi.

At the event Anath read the story of the making of Tipu Sultan the movie. The 18th century warrior king lived and died by the sword. But for the crew and cast who were working to bring him to life in a TV serial, it ended in a different, more horrifying ordeal: fire. Last fortnight, a devastating blaze swept through Premier Studios in Mysore, where actor-director Sanjay Khan was shooting a tele-serial based on Bhagwan Gidwani's historical novel The Sword of Tipu Sultan. The toll: 42 dead and at least 25. including Khan, seriously injured.

Read more about the book Once Upon A Prime Time by Ananth Narayan Mahadevan, published by Embassy Book Distributors in the Brewing Knowledge blog from The English Book Depot: https://www.brewingknowledge.com/2024/10/books-of-week-5th-october-saturday-2024.html

* Garhwal Post 
Film making is no longer art but a commercial activity in India: Ananth Mahadevan


Monday, 7 October 2024

1400 Subscibers, have you signed up?

Thank you, in six months we made it to 1400 subscribers #JoyOfLearning

- Sandeep Dutt

Read on Substack

At Good Schools Alliance, we are working to revolutionise education, driven by our passion for delivering top-notch learning opportunities to all. Our journey started with a vision to make education available to all, no matter where they come from. Our main goal is to cultivate an environment of trust and continual growth.

Good Schools India (GSI) Journal is our reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support our work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Your contributions help empower individuals with personal and social development. You will feel a sense of deep satisfaction as you help young people prepare to face the world with #JoyOfLearning.

Sunday, 6 October 2024

Read with us at The My Good School Retreat



My Good School Retreat 2024 

Find out more:

https://schooleducation.com/my-good-school-retreat 

Reflections Sunday the 6th October 2024

 - From My Guide Inside-

1. We can make healthy decisions and make and keep healthy friendships. Create and submit a reflection!
2. What were the words discussed today, and how do they reverberate with you?
3. The Best Ship is Friendship- Comment.
4. In the replay of the Signal Story, what did Rohan remember that made everything different?
5. What steps have you made to establish positive relationships with your friends, family, and/or relatives?
6. Write a story of your own by using the Power Words.
belonging—be a part of
healthy—good
insecure—unsure
realize—see, understand
signal—sign

Note: MGI Online is a school well-being curriculum that aligns with our work at My Good School and helps us focus on life skills.

From My Name Is Cinnamon-
1. What was your takeaway from today's session?
2. Have you ever been to Kolkata? Share your experience.
3. Does communication change depending on how something is said? How?
4. Why do people snore?
5. What could be the side effects after you raid the kitchen late at night?
6. Post a photo of the regional art form and discuss it.

These are some suggestions you can choose from. We are looking forward to seeing your wonderful and thoughtful reflections!

You can email your reflections to mk@learningforward.org.in.

My Good School 06-10-2024 

VIEW RECORDING - 204 mins (No highlights)

Highlight

To discuss social-emotional learning concepts and read a chapter from "My Name is Cinnamon", followed by updates on the upcoming My Good School retreat.

Key Takeaways

Topics

Social-Emotional Learning Presentation

"My Name is Cinnamon" Chapter 5 Discussion

My Good School Retreat Planning

Next Steps

  • Students to reflect on learnings from today's session and write about them
  • Manisha to reach out to teachers/schools to provide more details on the retreat
  • Participants are encouraged to register for the retreat
  • Continue weekly Sunday sessions and prepare for the upcoming Dussehra holiday

Action Items

  • Call teachers from each school about retreat. Brief on differences from a picnic, full school curriculum in 4 days. Discuss web pages, answer questions, and explain travel logistics. - WATCH (30 secs)
  • Post reflections and questions from today's meeting - WATCH (20 secs)

Reflections Since 2021