Sunday, 10 November 2024

Reflection Sunday 10th November 2024


Reflection of the week 


-From My Name Is Cinnamon- 

1. What was your takeaway from the session today?  

2. What were the key points in the chapter? 

3. Journey of self-discovery

4. Being honest with ourselves

5. Importance of reflection and clear thought 

6. When you write a poem how do you feel? 

7. How do you think Cinnamon would feel if he met his birth parents

8. Between the head and the heart


- From The Hidden Life Of Trees –  

1. Why is the chapter named "Not just a commodity?"

2. What is your takeaway from today’s session? 

3. What did you learn from this book?

4. Do trees have a life of their own? How can humans learn to respect that? 

5. Life from the eyes of trees

6. Taking care of trees and nature with dignity

7. We aren't a part of nature, we are nature

8. Lessons from this book


"I think writing a poem is oddly fulfilling and a unique art itself. Its unique how we're able to express our thoughts about something in a set of lines. I think it brings us to think deeper about what we're writing because we aren't just writing a paragraph but writing about our feelings and ideas about something in a few lines, choosing the right words at every step. And when you're done writing that poem, there's a sense of fulfillment when you read it again because it just opens a new perspective about it. 

I don't write blogs that often now but when I'm bored at home, I take out a paper and pen and write poems because it truly is something that's so unique." - Rishona Chopra


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

      

You can email your reflections at -      

mk@learningforward.org.in


My Good School 10th Nov 2024

Reading My Name Is Cinnamon - complete the chapter 8; and complete reading the book "The Hidden Life of Trees" by Peter Wohlleben, as well as plan for an upcoming retreat and initiate an "Impact Study" project.


Key Takeaways

Trees are highly interconnected through underground fungal networks, forming a "Wood-Wide Web" that allows them to communicate and support each other. 

Helping children like Cinnamon from the book deal with difficult emotions requires providing a supportive environment, encouraging reflection, and engaging them in enjoyable activities. 

The upcoming retreat will involve spending time in a forest, connecting with underprivileged children, and continuing the group reading experience. 

The "Impact Study" project aims to assess how the Teacher's Academy program is developing students' 21st century skills like critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration. 

Practices like writing poems, maintaining reading logs, and reflecting on readings can enhance personal growth and reading comprehension. 


Topics

Reading and Discussing "The Hidden Life of Trees"

The group continued reading and discussing chapters from the book, exploring how trees communicate and support each other through underground fungal networks. 

The discussion focused on understanding Cinnamon's emotional journey and ways to help him deal with his feelings in a healthy manner. 


Upcoming Retreat

The group discussed the plans for an upcoming retreat, where participants will spend time in a forest, connect with underprivileged children, and continue their group reading experience. 

The retreat will also involve a visit to the "My Good School" studio and a city tour. 


"Impact Study" Project

The group initiated an "Impact Study" project to assess the impact of the Teacher's Academy program on the development of students' 21st century skills. 

The project will involve gathering feedback from teachers and students, and analyzing data to understand the program's effectiveness.

 

Next Steps

Gurdeep will connect with Kunal to obtain the data from the previous impact study and use it as a starting point for the new project. 

The group will work together to develop a set of questions to gather feedback from teachers and students on a monthly basis. 

The findings from the impact study will be shared and discussed in future meetings, and the next meeting will be on the 24th of November 2024.

Sunday, 3 November 2024

Reflection Sunday The 3rd November 2024

- From My Guide Inside

1. MGI Book II Wheels of Learning Keep on Turning

Come on along:
Learn to recognize your state of mind. Know it by the feeling you are in.
When you focus attention, you will be aware of changes in your feelings.
This means you are naturally listening to your guide inside.
Helpful insights improve your feelings and natural motivation.

2. What do you think? Let’s talk about it…
“Sometimes it was only their thoughts that were making them unhappy and if they could understand…it would help make them feel well.” (Dear Liza)
How is this story like something you know?
Think of a time that you noticed your wheels of learning really turning.

3. Twinkle knows…
Sometimes it is only your thoughts that make you unhappy.
My guide inside helps me decide!
It is best to let the mind clear when you are confused.
Happiness is inside every one of us and keeps popping up.
Trust common sense.
Learning is easier when you feel joy in life.
     …Now you know, too!

4. Learn Power Words.

Make a story using these powerful words
confused-not clear
decision-a choice
grateful-feeling thanks
ignore-do nothing
welcoming-kind

5. Review Points of MGI Book II.
Explain how much you have discovered about yourself!
   
Your guide inside is always present. (aka, wisdom, intuition)
Thought is a gift and we have the choice of which thoughts to act on.
Insights help us know ourselves and understand our world.
   
Understanding thought and using insights makes life fun.   

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. Is it good to hide from everyone to gain attention?
3. How will you help your friend who feels insecure?
4. Explain the aftermath of criticism.
5 Which was the best birthday gift you have received so far?
6. Which cuisine you would love to eat and why?
7. What will you do to help your parents if they are having a financial crisis?. 

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

  • Cinnamon struggles with his identity as an adopted child when faced with not getting a new bike due to financial constraints.
  • The importance of critical thinking and examining one's thoughts objectively was highlighted.
  • Friends play a crucial role in providing honest feedback and support during challenging times.
  • Gratitude and reflection were emphasized as tools for personal growth and perspective.

Topics

Story Discussion: Cinnamon's Bike Request

  • Cinnamon misinterpreted his parents' response to his bike request, assuming he would get it despite financial constraints.
  • The story explores the impact of assumptions and communication gaps between children and parents.
  • Participants discussed the importance of clear communication and managing expectations.

Adoption and Identity

  • Cinnamon's struggle with his adopted status intensified when he couldn't get the bike he wanted.
  • The story highlights how external factors (like not getting a desired item) can trigger deeper identity issues.
  • Participants explored Cinnamon's emotional journey and the importance of addressing adoption-related feelings openly.

Financial Literacy and Empathy

  • The story introduces concepts of financial constraints and cost-cutting measures within families.
  • Participants discussed the importance of children understanding family financial situations.
  • Empathy towards parents' financial decisions was highlighted as a key learning point.

Friendship and Peer Influence

  • The role of friends like Pally (offering honest feedback) and Sundar (negative influence) was analysed.
  • Participants discussed the importance of choosing friends wisely and handling negative peer interactions.

Emotional Regulation and Critical Thinking

  • Cinnamon's spiral into negative thoughts was examined as a cautionary tale.
  • The importance of stepping back and examining thoughts objectively was emphasised.
  • Gratitude was suggested as a tool for maintaining perspective during challenging times.

Next Steps

  • Participants are encouraged to write reflections on the story and share them.
  • Students should prepare for the upcoming retreat, which promises fun activities and surprises.
  • Continue reading the next chapters of "My Name is Cinnamon" for further discussion.
  • Apply lessons learned about critical thinking and gratitude in daily life.

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!