Students Reflections - Sunbeam School Lahartara

"We do not learn from experience...we learn from reflecting on experience." John Dewey 

#JoyOfLearning

Sunbeam Varuna #JoyOfLearning

 We love ❤️ Sunday School

We are reading

Jataka Tales by Francis & Thomas

The Hidden Life of Trees by Peter Wohlleben

My India - Yashraj Sharma

 Independence Day Celebrations

Yashraj Sharma is the Head Boy High School at Gyanshree School Noida. He has been with us at My Good School for three years and helped set up the Astronomy Program as the Slooh Intern for GSA.

Sunday School 11th August 2024

Sunday School by Sandeep Dutt

Jugjiv Singh is the narrator at the My Good School sessions for reading, reflection, and relationships #JoyOfLearning.

Read on Substack

We share our #JoyOfLearning at our Sunday School; enjoy the My Good School session recording on 11th August 2024. Check it out: excerpt of The Great Dreams - Jataka Tales, our current read. Jugjiv Singh is our anchor and coach for the Sunday morning Zoom Sessions. His reading and conversations are legendary. 

Reflections for the week - Sunday 4th August 2024

GSA Members are attending the Global Ed Fest

- From My Guide Inside- 

1. What was your takeaway from the session today? 

2. Life is a figment of your imagination. 

3. I used to believe; now I am...

4. Reflect on this quote: "You have the gift of thought to use as you choose. Imagine that!"

      -Describe something you remember making up. Use these sentence starters: 

5. I used to believe… But, now I understand…

Note: MGI Online is a school well-being curriculum which aligns with, for example, Life Skills classes

- From Jataka Tales -     

1. Find out about Jetavana.

2. What are the three calamities of your life? How will you help yourself?

3. Which dream of yours did not let you sleep?

4. What lessons can we take away from the story today?  

5. What does it feel like when your dreams come true?

- From The Hidden Life Of Trees – 

1. Find out about anemones.

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

3. Why is there a battle for every light of sunshine in the forest?

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
Feel free to call Ma'am Manisha Khanna for help, you fill find the number on the top right of the page.

Reflection of the week – Sunday, 28th July 2024

- From Jataka Tales - 

1. Significance of Guru Purnima

2. Why do you believe having relationships gives you security in life?

3. Research on Silk cotton Trees.

4. What learnings can we take away from the story today?   

5. What does it feel like to be covered and protected?

6. What is the value of a brother in one's life?

- From Hidden Life Of Trees -     

1. What do you understand by "The Sick Tree"?

2. Did the story connect with you today, and why?     

3. What learnings can we take away from the story today?   

4. Find out about- Phytoncides

5. Where is Leningrad? 

6. How can Lametta be useful during Christmas?

7. Who are comrades in the chapter, and how do comrades help you? 

These are some suggestions. We look forward to your excellent and thoughtful reflections, which you can email to mk@learningforward.org.in.

Think it over
Based on the discussion, we must answer the question, " Why do children disrupt classes?"

Smart Summary

The conversation revolved around various themes, including the importance of brotherhood, navigating the digital age, inner strength, and three defence mechanisms. 

Speakers emphasized the need for respect, order, and education in society and the importance of utilizing digital power responsibly and ethically. 

We discussed trees' resilience and vulnerability to environmental changes and injuries, highlighting their adaptability and potential to heal sicknesses.

The conversation covered various topics and perspectives, focusing on the importance of inner strength, education, and responsible technology use.

12.00 pm
Interns Meeting: Form groups to work on four projects - Blogs, Podcasts, newsletters and Fundraising.

From the Jatakas discussed, we can take the following key lessons:

• The value of brotherhood and relationships, as seen in the woman's choice to save her brother over her husband or son

• The importance of compassion and treating all beings, even animals, with respect, as demonstrated by the Bodhisattva who saved the prince, snake, rat, and parrot

• The dangers of ingratitude and selfishness, as shown by the ungrateful prince who plotted against his benefactor

• The need to balance growth and defence, as trees must do to maintain their health and longevity

We can cultivate a more harmonious and just society by applying these lessons of brotherhood, compassion, and respect for all life.

Food For Thought

To continue encouraging thoughtful reflection and knowledge sharing in future sessions, we can:

• Provide more opportunities for participants to share their personal reflections and insights on the stories and lessons discussed

• Encourage participants to make connections between the stories and their own lives or experiences

• Facilitate discussions that allow participants to explore different perspectives and deepen their understanding

• Incorporate more interactive activities like group discussions or creative projects to engage participants and foster collaborative learning

• Invite participants to bring their books, poems, or other materials to share with the group.

• Emphasize the importance of active listening and respectful dialogue to create a safe and inclusive knowledge-sharing environment

By focusing on these strategies, we can continue cultivating a culture of thoughtful reflection and meaningful knowledge exchange in future sessions. YouTube Channel: https://youtube.com/@mygoodschool

Reflections Vs Note-taking - Podcast by Ayush and Ahad

Ayush and Ahad thought they needed to explain the power of reflection and how making notes or sharing content is not reflection. You can listen to them on your preferred podcast app or on My Good School's YouTube channel (@MyGoodSchool).

Where Passion Meets Education - Amardeep Singh

Amardeep Singh by Sandeep Dutt

Where Passion Meets Education

Read on Substack

Passion, purpose, and what is work?
Work, eat, sleep, recharge, and get to work again! The world is all about consumption; for Amardeep, Passion must work like the sea waves—ebb and tide. He shares what Passion means for him, his life, and his work, leaving a poignant message for young people. Amardeep is a harbinger of ‘Oneness’ and shares Guru Nanak’s life and work. He moved from being a banker to an avid traveller, tracing the footsteps of Guru Nanak.

We must go beyond the life of building bank balances to find fulfilment in life, what Passion means to us, and any activity that resonates within oneself and acts as a catalyst for developing one’s mind to achieve what your heart wishes. We pursue things close to us, do not mindlessly follow emotions, take activities, and yes, you are uncontrollable beyond reasoning. Overcome barriers, and when you pursue a passion, you will unfurl your life's purpose.

Where Passion Meets Education (WPME), the host, Sandeep Dutt, converses with passionate educators only once a month.

GSI Journal is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

www.GSI.in

Varsha reporting from Sunbeam Lahartara Hostel

Mr. Paul - Director QCR&D, had an interactive session with the bright minds of the My Good School reading club at Sunbeam Lahartara Hostel. He delved into the significance of 'reflection' and had a truly enlightening discussion. Boarders also shared their views and learnings. Additionally, Sir had a stimulating chat with the Interns, guiding them through the many volunteer roles they can take on during the internship.

- Report filed by Varsha Banerjee from Sunbeam School Lahartara: She has signed up for the Fellowship Program with the GSA (Learning Forward India Foundation).

News from Sunbeam School Bhagwanpur

Mr P.V. Paul, Director of QCR&D, met the My Good School Sunday students and interns of Bhagwanpur. The session's objective was to understand the difference between note-making and reflection. For instance, what makes us happy and what doesn't reflect happiness. Pondering one's own ideas and feelings helps one grow personally and professionally. 

Reflection helps us find answers to questions in our minds and hearts. It also changes our perception of the world around us. 

The Sunday School aims to propagate this habit of writing reflection in the Sunday school attendees post the reading session.

- Apeksha Malviya from Sunbeam English School Bhagwanpur is part of the Good Schools Alliance's Impact Team and is pursuing the Fellowship Program. 

Importance of Reflection - Sunbeam Suncity

Mr Paul PV, our Director (QCR&D), recently met with the My Good School reading club members at the Suncity Hostel and had an insightful session with them. He emphasised the importance of 'reflection' and spoke with the Interns separately, explaining the various roles and functions they can volunteer for.

- Reoported by Debasree Ghosh, a passionate educator at Sunbeam Suncity, pursuing the Fellowship Program.

Impact of the My Good School Program

On 21st July 2024, Mr P. V. Paul, Director of QCR&D, visited Sunbeam Varuna School and Hostel. During his visit, he interacted with the boarders and gathered feedback on the Sunday School reading sessions. The boarders shared that these sessions have significantly enhanced their vocabulary, reading, and writing skills. Some also mentioned that they have learned valuable morals and ethics.

Harsh Tiwari and Divyansh summarised the day's chapter, demonstrating their understanding and engagement with the material evidence.

Mr. Paul also had an exclusive meeting with the interns, where he discussed their roles and responsibilities. By contributing to these sessions, he emphasized how they can refine and apply their skills and potential.

Overall, the visit was highly interactive and fostered a more profound understanding among all participants.

The post is courtesy of Deeba Naqvi, a passionate educator at Sunbeam Varuna School and Hostel pursuing the Fellowship Program with the Learning Forward India Foundation.

Reflection of the week - Sunday 21st July 2024

Session Summary:

We played the 2 Girls 1 Mic Podcast - The conversation revolved around classic literature, reflection, and societal norms. Participants shared their perspectives on the significance and enduring appeal of classic novels like Pride and Prejudice and Little Women. We discussed the importance of reflection in understanding oneself and others. 

Reading Jatakas, which explored the challenges of societal norms, offered fresh perspectives on the role of women in historical contexts. 

Additionally, the speakers discussed the behaviour and adaptation of trees in response to climate change and brainstormed ideas for a newsletter and podcast for their school's JOL Diaries. 

https://otter.ai/u/wSMurS0H9DA5m2PHFU0Q--iTukA
Link to the Session Summary

- Tune in to the Podcast 2 Girls and 1 Mic - 

- What does heaven mean to you? 

- Which is your favourite classic?

- From Jataka Tales - 

1. Why do we read about the Jataka Tales?    

2. Did the story connect with you today, and why?     

3. What learnings can we take away from the story today?   

4. What does "iniquity" mean?

5. Gender Equality 

6. How have things come along and changed in this world?

7. Change in mindset

- From Hidden Life Of Trees -     

1. Why do we read about trees in the first place?   

2. Did the story connect with you today, and why?     

3. What learnings can we take away from the story today?   

4. Take a look at the trees growing around any small clearing

5. Characteristics of fungi. What is their role in the life of a tree?

6. Notice a fungi growing on a tree and mention how it looks. 

7. Why do trees grow downwards? Mention a tree that grows downwards. 

Read My Name is Cinnamon by Vikas Prakash Joshi. We will invite him to a meet and greet soon!

These are some suggestions. We're looking forward to your excellent and thoughtful reflections, which you can email to LF@ebd.in.

Reflection of the week - Sunday 14th July 2024

Agochar (Seeing the Unseen): At the confluence of the seen and unseen waters, Guru Nanak, the discerning motivator, inspires to connect with the invisible flow within. "Allegory - A Tapestry of Guru Nanak's Travels", a 24-episode docuseries, sequentially explores Guru Nanak's life events to unfurl the deep imports of his messages. This docuseries is filmed at over 150 multifaith sites in 9 countries. 

Notes courtesy Otter AI:
The conversation delved into Guru Nanak's life, teachings, and impact, exploring his philosophy and how it has been interpreted and accepted by different faith groups. Speakers also discussed Guru Nanak's spiritual journey, including his visit to Nizamabad and Allahabad and the significance of the Gagra River. Additionally, they shared insights on the path to spiritual growth and self-discovery, emphasizing the importance of being a learner at every moment.

Bhagat Kabir's philosophy of questioning societal norms can be applied to modern issues in several ways:

1. Challenge rigid thinking: Like Kabir challenged superstitions, we can question outdated beliefs and practices that no longer serve society.

2. Promote inclusivity: Kabir's message transcended caste and religious boundaries. We can apply this to fight discrimination and promote equality.

3. Simplify life: Kabir advocated for simple living. In modern society, we can question consumerism and materialism.

4. Seek inner wisdom: Kabir emphasized looking within for truth. We can encourage critical thinking and self-reflection instead of blindly following societal expectations.

5. Use creative expression: Kabir's poetic style made complex ideas accessible. We can creatively use art, music, and literature to address social issues.

6. Embrace diversity: Kabir's teachings were adopted by various communities. We can celebrate diversity and promote cultural understanding.

7. Question authority: Kabir challenged religious orthodoxy. We can encourage questioning of power structures and promote accountability.

8. Focus on essence over form: Kabir emphasized spirituality over rituals. We can prioritize core values and principles over superficial practices in various aspects of life.

By applying these principles, we can address modern issues like social inequality, environmental concerns, and political polarization with a fresh, critical perspective.

Some key takeaways from Guru Nanak's teachings about achieving spiritual growth include:

• Focus on inner transformation: Guru Nanak emphasised orienting oneself internally rather than relying on external rituals or formalities.
• Practice equipoise: Tranquility can be achieved by maintaining a balanced mind in all situations.
• Overcome inner obstacles: Guru Nanak taught that shackles of lust, anger, greed, attachment and ego are barriers to attaining peace of mind and experiencing bliss.
• Live simply: Guru Nanak emphasized the importance of simple living and evolving through proper actions.
• Cultivate noble intentions: Our intentions shape our destiny, with noble intentions leading to peace and lowly intentions to distress.
• Seek experiential wisdom: Guru Nanak valued direct spiritual experience over blind adherence to religious customs or self-affliction.
• Recognize the divine within: He taught that God is within us, and we should look inward to connect with the divine.
• Embrace oneness: Guru Nanak promoted the unity and oneness of all creation, transcending religious and social boundaries.
• Be a lifelong learner: He encouraged maintaining a mindset of continuous learning and growth throughout life.
• Practice remembrance: Regular meditation and remembrance of the divine facilitates the union of the mind with consciousness.
• In the second part of the session, we touched upon trees' remarkable intelligence and adaptability, highlighting their unique sensory perception and ability to respond to changing seasons.

- From Guru Nanak Docuseries- 

1. What was your takeaway from the session today? 

2. What did you learn from the episode, and does it relate to you in any way?

3. Rules and norms

4. Kabir and Guru Nanak. Are there any dohas that are close to your heart?

5. Rationality and common sense in the society

6. Where is this oneness lost today? 

-From Hidden Life Of Trees-     

1. Why do we read about trees in the first place?   

2. Did the story connect with you today, and why?     

3. What learnings can we take away from the story today?   

4. Which part is known as the brain of the tree?

5. How do forests grow and connect with external factors?

 These are some suggestions you can choose from. Looking forward to seeing your wonderful and thoughtful reflections! You can email your reflections to - nk@learningforward.org.in. For any assistance, please feel to WhatsApp or Telegram us at +919811133900 (no phone calls)

Action Item

1. Schedule the next screening date in August. Rishona will follow up with Amardeep.
2. Participants should research Kabir's teachings, especially his Dohas.
3. Read the assigned chapter from "The Hidden Life of Trees" and discuss.
4. Publish a blog post reflecting on the discussion points from the episode.
5. Share the reflection blog post on various online platforms once published.

Reflection of the week - Sunday 7th July 2024

Listen to the Podcast on YouTube

- From My Guide Inside -   

1. What was your takeaway from the session today? 

2. What would you call your My Guide Inside? 

3. How does your My Guide Inside help you? 

4. Share your thoughts and feelings. Show insight and connections to this quote from My Guide Inside (Book II) Chapter One:

    My guide inside of wisdom is "powerful knowledge." Wisdom will "grow with you and guide you."

- From Jataka Tales -     

1. Why do we read about the Jataka Tales?    

2. Did the story connect with you today, and why?     

3. What learnings can we take away from the story today?   

4. How do parents name their children?

5. Where is Takksila located? What is its significance?

6. What is righteousness?

7. Moral Integrity

8. How would you tackle the problem if you were in the Bodhisattva's place? 

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

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

SUMMARY

The speakers emphasised the significance of education and self-discovery, sharing personal experiences and insights on inner wisdom, thought labelling, and the connection between thoughts and feelings. They discussed the intersection of Yoga and AI, the importance of personal experience and self-denial in storytelling and the path to enlightenment. The speakers highlighted the importance of embracing simplicity, compassion, and wisdom in making good choices and guiding us through life.

12.00 PM
We decided not to read the chapter from The Hidden Life of Trees and instead hosted an Open House to meet Ms Manish Khanna and discuss how we could better engage with Fellows and Interns. Kunal shared an update about the Impact Study, and we discussed how we could improve our program on Sunday and engage with a wider audience.

Reflection for the week - Sunday 30th June 2024

-From Jataka Tales-   

1. What insights do the Jataka Tales offer?

2. How does today's story resonate with your current life experiences?

3. What lessons can be learned from "Great King Goodness"?

4. What are commandments, and what are the 10 of them?

5. Learn more about the 10 commandments and their meaning to you.

6. find about 10 precepts and whom it is connected to?

7. Find out about Kosala and what comes to your mind when you hear it?

8. Why did the King of Benaras keep not fighting against the Kosala Kingdom?

9. Was the decision not to fight right by the king of Benaras?

10. Is doing good never wasted?

11. What moral lessons can we derive from "Great King Goodness"?

12. What are Goblins? Draw a Goblin by imagination.

-  From The Hidden Life Of Trees-   

1. What insights did you gain from today's chapter, Hibernation?

2. How has this book influenced your thoughts or perspective about trees and their life?

3. How a tree is a giving, living Being?

4. How do humans rely on trees and forests for their well-being?

5. Observe a tree nearby and describe its characteristics.

6. How is a forest different in summer from other seasons?

7. Find Out about carotene?

8. How do summers bring change in the forest trees?

9. Why are Celcius and Fahrenheit different?

10. Why do you think Trees Hibernate and slow down?

Check the July calendar, find your interests, and join us. https://www.joyoflearningdiaries.com/2024/06/mgs-calendar-july-2024.html

Link to the My Good School Telegram Workgroup: https://t.me/+mgyMC5zqTfo4MGU1

These are some suggestions you may choose from; you are most welcome to share and post whatever comes to your mind as your thoughts. We are looking forward to seeing your wonderful and thoughtful reflections!   

   

You can email your reflections to Neetu at <nk@learningforward.org.in> or call her at +91 135 2710958 for assistance Monday through Friday, 10 am to 7 pm.

SUMMARY by Otter AI
The conversation revolved around various topics, including improving school management through effective communication, fostering a collaborative learning environment, and discussing religious and cultural stories. Participants discussed the adaptations of trees during winter, highlighting their unique strategies for survival. The conversation covered a wide range of subjects, showcasing the speakers' diverse perspectives and ideas.

Reflection of the week - Sunday 22nd June 2024

 

-From Jataka Tales-   

1. What insights do the Jataka Tales offer?

2. How does today's story resonate with your current life experiences?

3. What lessons can be learned from "The Foolish Friend"?

4. What led to the son's drastic action towards his father?

5. Have you ever played darts, or are you familiar with the game?

6. Do you agree that a sensible enemy is preferable to a foolish friend? Why or why not?

7. Do you typically think before you act? Why is this important?

8. In what ways were the GNATs effective, and what roles did they play in wars?

9. What are some of the critical aircraft used by the Indian Air Force?

10. Can you draw an aircraft and describe its features?

11. What moral lessons can we derive from "The Stupid Monkey"?

12. Who is responsible for the destruction in the garden?

13. What key points should be considered when delegating tasks?

14. What are some interesting facts about gardening, and how would you manage a garden to prevent damage by animals like monkeys?

15. What insights can be gained from the story "The Robbers and Treasures"?

16. What is the reason the Despatchers create such a pattern to get money

  

- From The Hidden Life Of Trees-   

1. What insights did you gain from today's chapter?

2. How has this book influenced your thoughts or perspective?

3. What is a bumblebee and its role in the ecosystem?

4. How do humans rely on trees and forests for their well-being?

5. Observe a tree nearby and describe its characteristics.

6. What is an armada, and how does it contribute to the health of forests?

7. In what ways can a dead tree benefit the ecosystem?

8. Listen to a song by Peter Maffay and reflect on how its themes connect with the chapter. https://youtu.be/LtQTSWpxmjo?si=PDQnjLCKxIpg63lh (Peter Maffay - So bist du 1979 - song in German) And when I go, only a part of me is gone.

Do visit Our Youtube Channel https://youtube.com/@MyGoodSchool 

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

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

Reflection of the week - Sunday 9th June 2024

   

-From Jataka Tales-    

1. Why do we read about the Jataka Tales?   

2. Did the story connect with you today, and why?    

3. What learnings can we take from the story "The Haughty Slave"? 

4. Why is the chapter's name "Haughty Slave"? 

5. Have you ever called anyone "haughty " and why? 

6. No one is superior or inferior 

7. What does "insolence" mean? 

 - From The Hidden Life Of Trees-    

1. What did you learn from the chapter today?    

2. What impact does this book have on you?    

3. Importance of Fungi and their significance 

4. The role birds play in Nature 

5. Why is a woodpecker called a "subletter"?  

6. Experiments with Nature 

7. The language of trees 

8. Interdependence in Nature 

9. What does the poem "Laburnum Top" express? 

10. What role do beetles play in Nature?  

11. Why is the chapter named "Community Housing Projects"? 

The Laburnum Top
https://www.ssgopalganj.in/online/Class%20XI/Eng/Hornbill/ch9.pdf 

The Good Schools India Journal: https://www.gsi.in/ 

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

You can email your reflections to -    

Rishona at 19392@gyanshree.in 

Saikiran at saikiran17112008@gmail.com

Swan Song - Sandeep Dutt

#JoyOfLearning #MyGoodSchool #HappyTeachers #SchoolsCanChange #WherePassionMeetsEducation #DilJeeto #BrewingKnowledge and all the hashtags of my life!

Reflection For The Week - Sunday 2nd June 2024

Reflection of the week   

-From Jataka Tales-   

1. Why do we read about the Jataka Tales?  

2. Did the story connect with you today, and why?   

3. What learnings can we take away from the story "The Crane and the Crab." 

4. How do the 6 C's connect with the story?   

  Hint: Critical Thinking, Creativity, Collaboration, Communication, Character and Citizenship 

5. What is a forest haunt? 

6. Draw a fish comb. What are its characteristics? 

7. Varana Tree and its symbolism 

8. What is a pincer-like grip? 

 

- From The Hidden Life Of Trees-   

1. What did you learn from the chapter today?   

2. What impact does this book have on you?   

3. What are phenols? 

4. The Beauty of Nature 

5. Draw a woodpecker and note its features  

6. What are aphids? 

7. The intelligent and perfect cycle of nature and how it keeps going  

8. The meaning of the word "regurgitate" in the context of the story 

9. The language of trees 

 

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

You can email your reflections to - nk@learningforward.org.in, call for support Monday to Friday, 10 am to 7 pm, +91 135 2710958