Our Voice about YES - Anmol Kashyap

 I have made this presentation to show case the contribution done by the Good School Alliance for the youth to be engaged with the society for its development and also for fostering their skills in the field of service. It is important because it helps in nurturing the youth for their career and its betterment.

Anmol Kashyap 9 D
Sunbeam Hostel Lahartara

Through Young Eyes - Shubhangi, Sunbeam Lahartara

Reading: A Gateway to Knowledge ✨

Reading is more than just deciphering words on a page; it’s an adventure for the mind and soul. 📖✨ It opens doors to new worlds, expands horizons, and enriches our understanding of life.

Why Read? ❓

1. Boosts Imagination 🎨

   • Books transport us to magical lands, historical events, and futuristic realms. Every word paints a picture in our minds.

2. Enhances Knowledge 📚

   • Whether it’s science, history, or art, reading is a treasure trove of information.

3. Improves Focus and Concentration 🔮

   • Reading requires undivided attention, training our minds to concentrate better.

4. Builds Empathy ❤️

   • By stepping into characters’ shoes, we learn to understand and share others’ feelings.

5. Strengthens Language Skills 🌍✌️

   • The more we read, the better our vocabulary and comprehension skills become.

Shubhangi
Sunbeam Hostel Lahartara

That's a Wrap-up for 2024 at My Good School!

My Good School (12/29/2024)

Quick recap

The session for the 'My Good School' program aims to enhance students' 6 C's through reading and reflection and emphasises the importance of student-centric learning and personal and social development. Discussions also revolved around traditional Indian practices, assertiveness, the practice of dowry, and the benefits of reading and learning from various books. The conversation ended with plans for upcoming presentations and the introduction of the My Good School program for teachers.

Next steps

• Sunbeam Lehartara students to prepare and present their YES Workshop presentations at the last Sunday session in January.

• Century School students must attend at least 3 months of My Good School sessions before preparing presentations.

• Manisha to share the Amazon link for "The Inner Life of Animals" book.

• Ila will encourage her students to read "The Inner Life of Animals" and "My Name is Cinnamon" books.

• Ila will consider bringing a group of teachers to Dehradun for a live session at the Joy of Learning studio.

• Students should explore the My Good School website and consider applying for internships after attending 5-6 weeks of sessions.

• Teachers interested in certification should submit 11 assignments in the year through the Teachers Academy program.

• Ila will send her students' poems and stories to be published in the Joy of Learning Diaries.

• Sunbeam schools will prepare YES Workshop presentations for the last Sunday session in January.

• As discussed in the chapter, all participants must reflect on the differences between urban and rural life and observe during monsoon season.

Summary

Introducing 'My Good School' Program

Sandeep welcomed Rajani Singh from Sunbeam Ballia. Manisha introduced the meeting's purpose: to discuss the 'My Good School' program, which aims to enhance the students' 6 Cs.

Pedagogy, Reflection, and School Alliance

In the meeting, Manisha and Sandeep discussed the importance of reading and reflection in their pedagogy, focusing on critical and creative thinking. They introduced two books, "In a Life of Animals" and "The Inner Life," for the community to read and reflect on. Sandeep also announced the addition of new schools to their Good School Alliance, emphasising the importance of student-centric learning and personal and social development. He encouraged the participants to volunteer in various programs, including professional learning programs and the Teachers Academy. The conversation ended with Sandeep and Manisha preparing to read from the books and the participants' reflections on the joy of learning for the year.

Cinnamon's Emotional Breakfast Encounter

In the meeting, Jugjiv discussed the book's previous chapter, focusing on the emotional moment when Cinnamon met his birth mother and stepfather. The group then discussed the events of the next chapter, where Cinnamon and his family had breakfast together. The breakfast consisted of spicy food, which Cinnamon struggled to eat, and the family's reactions to the food were discussed. The conversation ended with discussing the gifts Cinnamon and his family exchanged.

Exploring Indian Traditions and Cuisine

In this discussion, Jugjiv shares insights on the health benefits of traditional Indian practices like yoga poses, squatting toilets, and eating on the floor. He believes these practices promote better posture, flexibility, and digestion. The group discusses regional specialities like the Shaniwar Wada palace in Pune and textiles like Banarasi silk and Paithani sarees. They also discuss famous local food items such as malai, kachori, and tomato chaat. Jugjiv highlights the move away from nature and towards processed foods and medication in modern city life. The group exchanges views on ways to reduce spiciness in food, with milk and salt being recommended over water.

Assertiveness and Effective Communication

Jugjiv led a discussion on assertiveness, defining it as communicating directly, honestly, and respectfully while standing firm on one's point of view. He emphasised the importance of assertiveness in achieving goals, improving communication, and building relationships. He also highlighted the journey to becoming assertive, starting with self-reflection and setting boundaries. The group discussed various ways to become more assertive, including affirmations, clear communication, and confidence in one's knowledge and decisions. The discussion also touched on the role of self-reflection and clear thought in assertiveness.

Dowry's Origins and Reading Techniques

Jugjiv discusses the practice of dowry, which originated in Greece and the Roman Empire and spread to other parts of the world, including Latin America, due to European migration. He explains that dowry is present in Brazil and other Latin American countries because Portuguese colonisers brought the custom there. Jugjiv and Sandeep also discuss improving reading and pronunciation skills by following along with the text and Jugjiv's narration. Additionally, Jugjiv reads a passage about Cinnamon's observations of village life and his conversation with Aditi about his late father.

Explorers, Games, and Cultural Differences

Sandeep asks students to list five great explorers and the countries they came from as a reflection activity. Students mention Vasco da Gama from Portugal, Christopher Columbus, Ferdinand Magellan, and the Sikh guru Nanak Dev Ji. Jugjiv explains the meaning of the phrase "stark warning". They discuss traditional Indian games like marbles, hopscotch, and "ice and water". Jugjiv reads excerpts from a novel describing a boy named Cinnamon visiting his tribal relatives in a village, observing their way of life, food, and local fruits like mahua. The chapter highlights the cultural differences between urban and rural lives.

Reflecting on Books and Retreat Experiences

The students and teachers reflect on the benefits of reading and learning from various books. Sandeep emphasises the importance of reflection, sharing thoughts, and presenting learning. He outlines a structure for the monthly meetings, including student presentations on the last Sunday. The students present their experiences from a retreat program organised by the Good School Alliance, including activities like art competitions, team building, visiting schools, exploring farms, and interacting with local communities. They discuss the key themes and lessons from books like "The Inner Life of Animals," "My Name is Cinnamon," the Jataka Tales, and "The Hidden Life of Trees," highlighting the importance of empathy, different perspectives, and connections with nature.

Reflection and Learning Opportunities

Shaurya explains the benefits of reflection, such as promoting active learning and enhancing understanding. He thanks the organisers for the opportunities provided through the program. Shubhangi and Anmol also thank the organisers for facilitating learning and growth experiences. Sandeep encourages participation beyond the classroom, reading good books and practising the joy of giving. He invites schools to send students for an upcoming retreat. Deepa suggests having students read aloud during sessions for English practice. Sandeep explains the rationale for having professional readers instead but welcomes students to speak during the sessions. Ila shares her plan to motivate students to read books during the holidays, and Sandeep recommends specific book titles.

Sandeep's Office and My Good School

In the meeting, ILA and Sandeep discussed the location of Sandeep's office in Dehradun and his work at the Joy of Learning Studio above the iconic 101-year-old bookstore The English Book Depot. ILA expressed interest in visiting the studio and was invited to attend a live session on January 8th. Sandeep also introduced ILA to the My Good School program, which focuses on reading, reflection, and relationships and offers a certified program for teachers. ILA was encouraged to apply for the program and submit assignments for certification. The conversation ended with Manisha announcing the next month's presentations and the upcoming Yes program.

AI-generated content may be inaccurate or misleading. Always check for accuracy.

Reflection Sunday 29th December 2024

Sunday School no: 169

Chapter 13, "The Bathroom Outside", from My Name is Cinnamon by Vikas Prakash Joshi:

Reflection Questions:

1. Cultural and Societal Norms:

   • What does an outdoor bathroom symbolize in the context of societal and infrastructural challenges?
   • How does this setting influence Cinnamon's understanding of privilege and inequality?

2. Personal Growth and Empathy:

   • How does Cinnamon react to encountering a bathroom outside? What does this tell you about his perspective on comfort and convenience?
   • In what ways does this experience help him develop empathy for people who live differently?

3. Family Dynamics:

   • How do Cinnamon's adoptive parents approach this scenario? What does this reveal about their values and parenting style?
   • How does the conversation or situation surrounding the outdoor bathroom contribute to the bond within the family?

4. Resilience and Adaptability:

   • How does Cinnamon adapt to this unfamiliar situation? What does this teach us about resilience in the face of discomfort?
   • Reflect on when you had to adjust to an unfamiliar or challenging environment. What did you learn?

5. The symbolism of Spaces:

   • Settings often carry deeper meanings in literature. What could the "bathroom outside" symbolize in Cinnamon's journey of self-discovery?
   • How does this physical space connect to the book's broader themes, such as belonging or identity?

6. Social Commentary:

   • What does this chapter reveal about the disparity in living conditions across different societal strata?
   • How does Cinnamon process this disparity, and what might this suggest about his growth as a character?

7. Humour and Humanity:

   • Vikas Prakash Joshi often uses humor in the book. How does the author balance humour with the more profound implications of this chapter?
   • What role does humour play in helping characters (and readers) navigate sensitive or uncomfortable situations?

8. Connection to the Title and Theme:

   • How does this chapter connect to the broader themes of identity and the search for belonging reflected in My Name is Cinnamon?
   • What does this experience add to Cinnamon's journey of understanding himself and the world around him?

These questions are designed to spark introspection and meaningful discussions about the chapter's themes and its role within the narrative.

Next week -
Chapter  7:  Lies and Deception From "The Inner Life of Animals".

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

You can email your reflections to mk@learningforward.org.in or post them as comments below!

GSA Calendar January 2025

   

My Good School every Sunday

5^th January 2024 

Meet and Greet with 

Lt. Col A Sekhar
Regional Director Universal Education

moSoldier Educationist, Leader, trainer, mentor, resource person

Dec 2024 to Present · 1

The Inner Life Of Animals

12^th January 2025

Amardeep Singh Screening of Episode 13
Allegory: A Tapestry of Guru Nanak's Travels

The Inner Life Of Animals

19th January 2025

The YES workshop with Raghu Pandey, Founder iMature

We aim to inspire young minds, helping them navigate while embracing their dreams and aspirations. 

My Name Is Cinnamon

26th January 2025

My Name Is Cinnamon 

The Inner Life Of Animals

Professional Learning Programs and other events

8th January 2025

Arthur Foot Academy

Professional Learning Program (PLP) AFA Special Edition
Is Your Child Ready To Face The World (Hindi Session)

AFA Monthly Meeting
7th January 2025 at 11 am - WhatsApp Video Call

The Teacher's Academy

Masterclass every Saturday at 5:30 pm

Book reading: Shomie Das, The Man Who Saw Tomorrow

4th January 2025, 11th January 2025, 18th January 2025, 

and 25th January 2025

GSA Monthly Meeting 
25th January 2025 at 7 pm - WhatsApp Video Call

DSOBS Impact Project Meeting
26th January 2025 - only for invitees

Subeam Varuna Newsletter December 2024

Enjoy your holidays, read the reflections and share #JoyOfLearning!

Wrap-Up from Sunbeam School Varuna

SUNBEAM VARUNA by Learning Forward India Foundation

Sunbeam School and Hostel Varuna share a Wrap-Up for 2024!

The love the Sunday School and contribute their reflections to the Joy Of Learning Diaries regularly. Today, the celebrate Christmas Eve with us!

Reflection Sunday 22nd December 2024

Sunday School no: 168

Meet and Greet with Anika Singh, a social artist and the founder of VOYCE, as well as the director of DhunAnand. Anika is passionate about using art and creativity to drive social change. With over 15 years of experience, including six years with the World Health Organization (WHO) at both the Regional Office for South-East Asia and the WHO Country Office for India, as well as over four years in Australia, she has a wealth of expertise. At WHO, Anika developed and implemented engaging health promotion campaigns aimed at encouraging positive behavior change. She has also directed more than 30 advocacy productions, including animation videos, musicals, and documentaries. Before WHO, she worked in Australia mainly in the skills development and disability employment services network, assisting disadvantaged communities through employment, support services, community engagement and customised training programmes.

• 
  

  
  

  What does VOYCE do?

• Content for public health and social change to create impact.
• Work with the arts to create positive behaviour change campaigns.
• Films, advocacy videos, animation videos, musicals and ad films.
• Production of publications – including conceptualising, researching, writing, editing, designing, and printing.
• Primary and secondary level research.
• Events and festivals give an extra edge by leveraging the performing and visual arts to create impact. The company specialises in developing both online and offline events.
• Facilitating training on values in action, authentic leadership, 1-Ness consciousness, and behaviour change communication for health promotion, gender equality, and social change messaging.
• Organising staff engagement and team-building activities.
• Conceptualising and implementing campaigns to promote the Sustainable Development Goals, specifically for positive behaviour change related to health

SUMMARY ✨

With guest speaker Anika Singh, discuss oneness, love, and art for social change and reflect on gratitude and human connections.

Key Takeaways

• Oneness involves feeling connected to all living beings and the environment, transcending separateness.
• Art can be a powerful medium for social change, public health messaging, and expressing complex ideas.
• Gratitude emerges from recognising positive experiences caused by others; animals may exhibit gratitude-like behaviour.
• My Good School will evolve to focus on the "Joy Of Giving" in 2025, with upcoming events celebrating poetry, art, and music.

Topics

Anika Singh's Background and Work

Started social work at age 14 and represented India at international conferences.

Worked with WHO and UN agencies for 10+ years on public health campaigns

Founded organisation VOYCE (Vision and Opportunities for Youth and Community Empowerment)

Uses art for public health messaging and social change

Oneness and Love - 1Ness (the way VOYCE says it)

Oneness is feeling connected to all beings and nature, with no separation.

Love emerges naturally from oneness and creates a sense of belonging everywhere.

Contrasted with artificial intelligence - oneness intelligence about higher purpose and connection

Art for Social Change

An art competition was used to explain depression through various mediums (dance, sand art, music videos, etc.).

More impactful than traditional messaging for sensitive topics

Upcoming "Returning to Love" event on Jan 12, 2025, to showcase art on oneness, love, UN SDGs

Inviting submissions of visual art with 300-350 word impact stories

Behaviour Change Approaches

Changing the environment is more effective than targeting individuals

Using "nudges" - subtle environmental cues to inspire positive habits

Consistency in messaging is key

Leveraging platforms like social media, games bookmarks to reach youth

Gratitude in Animals

Difficult to definitively prove, but anecdotes suggest the possibility

Examples: Rescued whale's acrobatic display, crows bringing gifts to girl who fed them

Gratitude is defined as positive emotion from an enjoyable experience caused by others

My Good School Updates

Website upgraded for 2025 at schooleducation.com

Four focus areas: the joy of learning, happy teachers, the joy of giving, youth engaging society

Upcoming New Year's Eve reflection session

Three retreats planned for 2025 (April, November, December)

Next Steps

Submit art entries for the "Returning to Love" event by Dec 30, 2024

Prepare reflections on 2024 My Good School experiences for next Sunday's session

Consider participating in upcoming My Good School retreats and community learning initiatives

Teachers invited to volunteer for the monthly professional learning program at Arthur Foot Academy

Reflections

1. What insights did you gain about the power of art and music as tools for social change? 

2. How can you use creativity to contribute to your community or address social

    issues?

 Inner Life of Animals and the Theme  of Gratitude as presented by Peter Wohlleben:

Reflective Questions

1. Understanding Gratitude:

   • How does Peter Wohlleben describe gratitude in animals? Do you think animals experience gratitude in the same way humans do? Why or why not?

2. Examples of Animal Behavior:

   • Can you recall an example from the chapter where an animal showed gratitude? How did this behaviour reflect the concept of gratitude?

3. Human vs. Animal Emotions:

   • Do you think human emotions, such as gratitude, fundamentally differ from animals? What examples support your view?

4. Personal Reflection:

   • Have you ever experienced a moment when an animal seemed grateful to you? How did that make you feel?

Critical Thinking Questions

5. Interpreting Animal Actions:

   • Some scientists argue that behaviours we interpret as gratitude are simply survival instincts. What is your opinion on this perspective?

6. Role of Environment:

   • How might the environment or upbringing of an animal affect its ability to express emotions like gratitude?

7. Ethics and Empathy:

   • If animals can feel gratitude, what implications does this have for how humans treat them?

Creative Thinking Questions

8. Imagining a Conversation:

   • Imagine you could talk to an animal. What questions would you ask to understand how they perceive emotions like gratitude?

9. Animal Perspective:

   • Write a short story or poem from the perspective of an animal experiencing gratitude. What event triggered this feeling? How do they express it?

10. Cross-Species Relationships:

    • Design a fictional scenario where an animal and a human share a moment of gratitude. How does this moment bridge the gap between species? 

These questions will encourage you to connect the scientific observations in the chapter with your own experiences, fostering critical and empathetic understanding.

Next week -
Chapter 13: The Bathroom Outside from My Name is Cinnamon
Chapter   7:  Lies and Deception from The Inner Life of Animals

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

You can email your reflections to mk@learningforward.org.in or post them as comments below!

A Melody of Reflections from Sunbeam School & Hostel Varuna

Sunbeam Varuna.pdf by Manisha Khanna

Newsletter
A beautiful collection of reflections from the students at Sunbeam School and Hostel Varuna.

Thinking and Writing

 

Writing isn't what you do after you have an idea. It's how you develop an inkling into an insight.  Turning thoughts into words sharpens reasoning. What's fuzzy in your head becomes clearer on the page.  "I'm not a writer" shouldn't stop you from writing. Writing is a tool for thinking.  

- Courtesy Adam Grant on Substack

Read more:

Thursday, 29 August 2024

Note-taking and Reflections - What is the difference?

https://www.joyoflearningdiaries.com/2024/08/note-taking-and-reflections.html