Connect with us

Edutainment

ScooReview: ‘I Am Kalam’ is a Riveting Story of a Child’s School Dream

The film is about an impoverished village child who calls himself Kalam after the former Indian President because he wants to become like him.

Published

on

I Am Kalam is a beautiful film produced by the non-governmental charity called Smile Foundation. The reason behind making this movie was to bring awareness to people about the educational inequality prevailing in India.

I Am Kalam is a 2011 film, which was way ahead of its time. This is the story of a boy from a poor family who works as a child labourer at a highway-side cafe (aka dhaba). Irrespective of the problems in his life, he is a happy child with a simple dream to become someone like Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam. 

The plot has the protagonist Chotu being sent to a dhaba to work and earn for the family. Here, he befriends the royal heir, Rannvijay, of a neighbouring resort's owner, who’s his age. Every day, Chotu dreams of wearing a tie and uniform to go to school, just like Rannvijay, as he has an unusual thirst for education and knowledge. He then chances upon the Republic Day Parade and Dr. Kalam’s salutation march. Curious, he finds out about the President and instantly decides to become like him. From here, he begins to call himself Kalam.

As the story progresses, he meets a foreigner woman who tries to convince his mother to let him study as he is a bright kid, but since the family's circumstances aren’t in favour, he is denied an education. As a consequence, Chotu aka Kalam decides to run away to Delhi to meet the President and give him a letter. In this, he writes about how he wants to become like the President of India and thanks Dr. Kalam for making him realise his dreams. Meanwhile, every one from his family comes running after Chotu to find him in the new city. They finally track him down and a relieved Rannvijay and zealous Chotu hug each other with joy.

Advertisement

In the end, Rannvijay’s father offers Chotu’s mother work at his resort and agrees to pay for Chotu’s education and send him to the same school as Rannvijay’s. That is when Chotu says he wants to pay for his education on his own and the movie ends with both Chotu aka Kalam and Rannvijay boarding the school bus in their school uniforms.

Conclusion:

The plot shows that equality in education is still a mere thought and that ideas are still being built around the education for underprivileged. The movie is, without a doubt, an eye-opener for the education sector in India.

The child named Chotu, with the sole dream of education, depicts the scenario of the underprivileged communities in our country and the inequity of education a majority of kids his age face. With this film, Smile Foundation wanted to press on the matter a decade ago. Clearly, the great scientist, an exemplary leader and a visionary teacher, Dr. Kalam, is a huge inspiration behind the script. The film ends on a promising note that where there’s a will, there’s a way. But most importantly, it teaches us that nothing can stop a child from grabbing his right to education if his determination is strong.

Advertisement

Edutainment

A Voice for All Ages: The Enduring Legacy of Ameen Sayani in Indian Education

Published

on

In the echoing halls of Indian broadcasting, the voice of Mr. Ameen Sayani resonated with a warmth that touched millions, uniting a diverse nation in the golden era of radio. Today, at the age of 91, as we bid farewell to this stalwart of the airwaves, his absence leaves a silence that is palpable and profound. Mr. Sayani was not merely a radio presenter; he was a cultural icon who personified the soul of India, a voice that became the soundtrack of our collective memory.

The voice of Mr. Ameen Sayani has been a familiar comfort in the homes of countless Indians, a testament to his incredible journey in broadcasting. He is best known for his work on “Binaca Geetmala”, a radio program that became a weekly ritual for listeners, showcasing the latest and greatest in Hindi film music. His distinctive voice and charming style turned the show into an institution, one that charted the musical landscape of India for years. His journey in the world of radio began at a young age, and his natural ease behind the microphone made him a household name. Through his programs, he didn’t just play songs; he wove tales around them, connecting with his audience on a personal level, making each listener feel as though they were a part of a larger Indian family.

Why should Mr. Sayani’s legacy be a part of our schools and colleges? It’s simple: he was a master storyteller and communicator, whose skills go beyond radio. He showed us the power of reaching out and touching hearts, of crafting stories that linger in the memory. These are the kinds of lessons that are vital for every student, no matter what they want to do in life.

Mr. Sayani’s voice brought people together, crossing barriers of region and language. His approach to communication is something we should all try to learn from – it’s about engaging with others, being culturally aware, and building a sense of community with our words.

His radio shows did more than entertain. They taught listeners how to listen to each other, to share in the joys and sorrows of others, reflecting the society of the time. As educators, we should aim to teach our students not just to be good at a job, but to be good people – and Mr. Sayani’s life and work offer rich lessons in this respect.

Advertisement

To include Mr. Sayani in our curriculum is to honor a man whose passion became the heartbeat of a nation. We should use his story to inspire students to find their own voices, to tell stories that matter, and to understand the incredible impact they can have on the world.

As we remember him, let’s bring the spirit of his work into our classrooms, so that the power of his voice continues to inspire future generations to make their own lasting impact.

Continue Reading

Edutainment

Integrating Startups in School Projects: The Sign of an Effective Curriculum

Published

on

Forget boring textbooks and dusty lectures! In India’s classrooms, the future of education is sizzling hotter than a samosa fresh out the fryer, and it’s all thanks to the entrepreneurial spirit of students. Startups are no longer just America’s playground – they’re popping up in schools like mango trees after monsoon season, and guess what? They’re changing the game! Integrating startups in school projects is a great way to teach entrepreneurship to students and help them understand the value of problem-solving. It also makes the projects more practical and engaging. In this article, we will explore how startups can be integrated into school projects and assignments.

As we celebrate National Startup Day on 16 January, in the Indian context, the Make in India campaign has given birth to a startup culture that is thriving. According to Statista, India has emerged as one of the leading startup ecosystems in the world, with over 61,000 recognized startups spread across 55 sectors and 635 districts . The Startup India initiative intends to catalyze and incentivize the startup culture through tax exemptions, funding, and support for incubators and accelerators.

Bonus fun fact: Did you know that India is now the 3rd largest startup ecosystem in the world? That’s right, these young entrepreneurs are shaking things up on a global scale!

Startups have become a major part of modern classrooms, and for good reason. They offer a unique perspective on problem-solving and innovation that can be applied to a wide range of subjects. For example, a startup that focuses on renewable energy can be integrated into a science project on climate change. Similarly, a startup that focuses on healthcare can be integrated into a biology project on human anatomy.

To integrate startups into school projects, students can work on various startup projects, appeal for funding, and then execute a whole idea in an assignment. This approach can help students learn about the various aspects of entrepreneurship, such as ideation, market research, funding, and execution. It can also help them develop skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and teamwork. Some successful startups working towards transforming education are:

Advertisement

From coding wizards to eco-warriors:

Imagine learning to code by building your own robot that plants trees! That’s what WhizKid, a student-led startup, is all about. These tech whizzes are using their coding skills to tackle climate change, one line of code at a time. Fun fact: Their robots can plant a sapling in under a minute – faster than you can say “chai time!”

Turning science into superhero adventures:

Remember those boring biology diagrams? Not anymore! Tinkerly is turning science into a real-life Marvel movie. With their DIY science kits, students can build their own microscopes, dissect volcanoes (safely, of course!), and even create their own mini-ecosystems. Get ready, lab coats and goggles – science class is about to get epic!

History that rocks your world:

Advertisement

History buffs, rejoice! StoryWeaver is weaving magic into the past. This platform lets students write their own historical fiction stories, collaborate with classmates, and even translate their tales into different languages. Imagine learning about the Mughal Empire through a rap song or the French Revolution through a graphic novel – history has never been so cool!

Another way to integrate startups into school assignments is to invite startup founders to speak to students. This can help students learn about the challenges and opportunities of entrepreneurship firsthand. It can also help them develop a better understanding of the startup ecosystem and the role of startups in the economy.

Integrating startups into school projects and assignments is a great way to teach students what lies beyond the world of their textbooks and the space outside of the walls they live in. With the right approach, startups can be integrated into a wide range of subjects and projects, making them more engaging and fun for students.

These are just a few sparks of innovation igniting in India’s classrooms. With the support of initiatives like Make in India, students are finding their entrepreneurial wings and building a future where education isn’t just about memorizing facts, but about creating solutions, solving problems, and having a blast doing it. So next time you hear the word “startup,” don’t just think Silicon Valley – think of the young minds in India, dreaming up the next big thing, one school project at a time!

Advertisement
Continue Reading

Edutainment

Target Publications hosts workshop for grade 10th and 12th students of Snehasadan Shelter Homes and Reap NGO

Published

on

Target Publications Pvt. Ltd organised a workshop for grade 10th and 12th students from Snehasadan, shelter home for homeless and Reach Education Action Programme (REAP) NGO. The workshop, held at Snehasadan, Andheri East, on January 14th from 11am to 1pm, aimed to offer useful tips for effective board exam preparation.

Experienced expert & state board Moderator, Mr. Ravi Dharma, who has 34 years of teaching experience and 30 years in paper correction of the Maharashtra State Board of Secondary and Higher Secondary Education (MSBSHSE), explained important aspects of exam preparation. The workshop served around 40 children, providing helpful knowledge on board exam readiness, time management strategies, stress management techniques, and practical demonstrations of how answer papers and question papers will look. The session also covered examination dos and don’ts, along with guidance on dealing with potential challenges like reaching the exam centre on time and understanding permissible materials at exam centre. Students received guidance on effectively memorising maps and were instructed on writing answers strategically in their answer sheets and to attempt all questions to increase their chances of scoring full marks in exams.

After the event, the students had the chance to interact with Mr. Ravi, asking for advice on board exams, and explore a variety of books provided by Target Publications designed to enable a smooth and successful exam experience.

“Hosting this workshop for the students from Snehasadan and Reap NGO has been a rewarding experience. At Target Publications, we believe in supporting every student, regardless of their background, to excel in their academic journey. Seeing these determined young people eagerly learn insights on effective board exam preparation fills us with satisfaction. Their achievements in board exams will always reflect as a proof of the impact of education as a catalyst for positive change.”Tushar Chaudhari, Executive Director, HR & Creative, Target Publications Pvt. Ltd.

Advertisement

Echoing Chaudhari’s sentiments, Mr. Ravi Dharma, the mentor who conducted the board exam preparation workshop, said, “Education is a powerful tool, and this session aimed to equip these young minds with effective strategies for board exam success. The enthusiasm and receptiveness displayed by the students were truly inspiring. With Target Publications’ commitment to making a difference, it’s a collective effort towards supporting these students for a brighter academic future. My gratitude to Target Publications for creating an environment where knowledge is not just imparted but also becomes a stepping stone for transformation and success.”

Father Wellington Patil from Snehasadan, Andheri, said, “Engaging in activities related to board exams instils confidence in our 10th and 12th-grade students. Target Publications conducted this workshop at the right time, providing valuable assistance that will surely benefit our students.”

Continue Reading

Edutainment

10 Unforgettable Films That Celebrate Inspiring Teachers

Published

on

Lights, Camera, Learn!

As we celebrate Teacher’s Day in the month of September, here are the list of films that featured some stories and teachers who left an indelible mark on the audience in cinema, showing the world how it only takes one teacher to inspire a million lives…

Dead Poet’s Society (1989): “Dead Poets Society” is an acclaimed drama film about an unconventional English teacher who inspires his students to embrace poetry, think independently, and seize the day. It explores the conflicts between personal aspirations and societal expectations, offering a thought-provoking exploration of individuality and the pursuit of dreams.

Where to watch- Disney + Hotstar
Directed by- Peter Weir

Advertisement

The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie (1969): “The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie” is a captivating tale of a passionate and unconventional teacher who leaves an indelible mark on her students at an all-girls school in 1930s Edinburgh, empowering them to embrace their individuality, challenge societal norms, and strive for greatness in a world that seeks to confine them.

Where to watch- YouTube
Directed By- Ronal Neame

Stanley Ka Dabba (2011): “Stanley Ka Dabba” is a heartwarming film that tells the touching story of Stanley, a young boy with a vivid imagination, who faces adversity when his schoolmates try to steal his lunchbox (dabba) every day. With the compassionate guidance of his teacher, Stanley finds solace, resilience, and the power to overcome obstacles, showcasing the transformative impact of friendship, mentorship, and the indomitable spirit of childhood.

Where to watch- Disney+Hotstar
directed by- Amole Gupte

“A Beautiful Mind” (2001): A biographical film that chronicles the life of mathematician John Nash. The story explores Nash’s struggles with mental illness and the challenges he faces in differentiating between reality and hallucinations. Supported by his dedicated wife, Alicia, Nash perseveres and makes significant contributions to the field of mathematics.

Advertisement

Where to watch- Amazon Prime Video
Directed by- Ron Howard

English Vinglish (2012): A heartfelt film that revolves around the transformative journey of Shashi, a middle-aged Indian housewife who embarks on a trip to New York and enrolls in an English language course. With the guidance and encouragement of her patient and understanding teacher, Shashi not only improves her English-speaking skills but also discovers her self-worth, gaining confidence, and finding her voice in a world that underestimated her.

Where to watch- Jio Cinema 
Directed by- Gauri Shinde

Black (2005): A film that explores the life of Michelle McNally, a visually and hearing-impaired girl, and her relationship with her teacher, Debraj Sahai. Through their unconventional bond, Debraj strives to break through the barriers of Michelle’s disabilities, guiding her towards education, communication, and self-discovery, ultimately illuminating the triumph of the human spirit and the power of perseverance.

Directed by- Sanjay Leela Bhansali

Advertisement

Super 30 (2019): “Super 30” is a film based on the true story of mathematician Anand Kumar. The movie depicts Anand’s journey as he establishes the “Super 30” program, where he selects talented but underprivileged students and trains them for the highly competitive Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) entrance exams. With his unconventional teaching methods and unwavering belief in his students’ potential, Anand empowers them to overcome social and economic barriers, offering them a chance at a brighter future. The film highlights the transformative impact of education, determination, and the power of dreams.

Where to watch: Disney + Hotstar
Directed By: Vikas Bahl

Taare Zameen Par (2007): ” A film that revolves around the story of Ishaan, a young boy with dyslexia, and his journey of self-discovery. When Ishaan’s struggles with academics and unconventional ways of learning go unnoticed by his family and teachers, a new art teacher enters his life. With his understanding and compassionate approach, the teacher helps Ishaan unlock his hidden potential, allowing him to thrive and shine in his own unique way. The film beautifully explores the importance of recognizing and nurturing the individual talents and strengths of every child.

Where to watch- Netflix
Directed by- Aamir Khan, Amole Gupte

Hichki (2018): “Hichki” is an uplifting film that tells the inspiring story of Naina Mathur, a woman with Tourette syndrome who dreams of becoming a teacher. Despite facing rejection and discrimination due to her condition, Naina secures a teaching job at an elite school. She takes on the challenge of teaching a class of unruly and privileged students, using her determination and unique teaching methods to break through their barriers and make a positive impact on their lives. “Hichki” portrays the power of perseverance, inclusivity, and the ability to overcome adversity.

Advertisement

Where to watch- Amazon Prime Videos
Directed by- Siddharth P. Malhotra

Parichay (1972): Ravi, a struggling job seeker, reluctantly accepts the daunting task of tutoring five unruly and privileged children who have managed to intimidate their previous teachers. As he navigates the challenges of teaching this challenging group, Ravi’s unwavering determination and unconventional teaching methods begin to transform not only the students but also his own life.

Where to watch- Zee5, YouTube
Directed by- Gulzar

Advertisement
Continue Reading

Edutainment

Screen Time that’s Worthwhile: 8 Best Educational Shows for Kids

Here are 8 shows—a cross-section of educational TV in terms of STEM, history/culture, the arts, and more—for toddlers to early teens

Published

on

In today’s digital age, children have access to an abundance of entertainment options, including TV shows and movies. However, not all of these options are created equal when it comes to providing educational value. As parents and educators, we want to ensure that our children are spending their time on shows that are not only entertaining but also offer educational benefits.

Luckily, there are plenty of excellent educational shows for kids of all ages available today. These shows are designed to engage and inspire children while providing them with valuable knowledge and skills that can help them in their academic and personal lives.

Here are 8 shows—a cross-section of educational TV in terms of STEM, history/culture, the arts, and more—for toddlers to early teens.

  1. Ask the Storybots

The show follows the story of how some friendly, funny bots discover the answer to a “big question.” The magazine format of this show allows for music videos, letter rhyming, songs, and field trips to different places within the episodes. Find it on Netflix, suitable for ages 3+

  1. Julie’s Greenroom

Julie Andrews plays a performing studio owner and stars alongside original puppets from the Jim Henson Company (as well as some high-power actors) as she teaches kids all about putting on a stage show. Find it on Netflix, suitable for ages 4+

  1. Rosie’s Rules

In addition to learning Spanish language skills and being exposed to Mexican traditions, Rosie’s Rules teaches children about cultural diversity with easy-to-understand lessons. The show is wholesome, educational, and entertaining. Find it on PBS Kids, suitable for ages 5+

Advertisement

  1. Baymax!

Loveable and huggable, Baymax is more than a cute, cuddly robot. He helps people stay well. Each episode teaches children about living a healthy life. Find it on Disney+, suitable for ages 5+

  1. Wild Kratts

Saturday morning never had it so good. In this animated series, kids are introduced to a variety of wild animal species and learn about science concepts such as animal behavior, habitats, and adaptation in this show which is brimming with real-life zoologist brothers Chris and Martin Kratt’s trademark humor and sense of adventure. Find it on PBS Kids, suitable for ages 6+

  1. Brainchild

This science-inspired educational series uses experiments and creative presentations to teach about concepts like the senses, neurology, marine biology, and gravity, all at a level relatable for kids—especially tweens. Find it on Netflix, suitable for ages 7+

  1. El Deafo

According to Common Sense Media, “this beautiful three-part miniseries feels like an animated diary as the show uses audio effects to help viewers understand what the world sounds like with hearing loss. The combination of these effects and the narration helps kid viewers really feel Cece’s joys and struggles.” Find it on Apple TV+, suitable for ages 8+

  1. The Proud Family: Louder and Prouder

Relatable stories, good role models, and zany comedy made The Proud Family: Louder and Prouder a great show for tweens, teens, and young adults. Find it on Disney+, suitable for ages 10+

 

Continue Reading

Edutainment

Paytm Founder Remembers The Struggles Faced In School & College Days

I went from being a school topper to failing in subjects because I couldn’t understand the language.

Published

on

In a recent interview with India Today, Vijay Shekhar Sharma, now one of India’s youngest billionaires and Founder of Paytm, remembered his days as a student and the struggle that he went through during everyday classes.

He recollected his years as a college student in Delhi, sitting in the front row of class and staring blankly at his teacher, who was teaching in a language. Despite being the only student from his school to qualify in the competitive exam and getting admission in DCE, he faced a language barrier in the new city. Since he had a Hindi-medium education background until high school, it became a struggle for him to understand the lessons which were majorly delivered in English.

He grew up in Harduaganj, a small town near Aligarh, with his father (a school teacher) and mother (a housewife). As he met with a language barrier in his engineering classes at the Delhi College of Engineering (DCE, now Delhi Technological University), his life in the premises became intimidating for him. He suffered from anxiety, the feeling of being an outcast, suffered a lack of friends and worried about getting a decent job.

He said, “I was the second engineer to graduate from my school. The first was in 1964. I see myself as an underdog, I was not supposed to be here. In school, I read a lot of books in the library; I read a lot about the glory of India but also realised that the glory was in the past.”

Advertisement

“I believe that whatever comes my way, whatever I do, is part of god’s plan. If there is a challenge [before me], I am meant to solve it. Whatever comes my way is a tool or a resource for me to fulfil my purpose. It is surreal to believe that I am here,” added the tech-entrepreneur.

Shy and overwhelmed, he spent most of his time in the library or the computer lab. “I didn’t understand what the teacher was saying in the classroom. I never felt one with my peers. I couldn’t speak or understand their language. I was a failure in my class but a hero in the lab. I started to worry about whether I would get a job. I went from being a school topper to failing in subjects because I couldn’t understand the language.”

But what inspired him amidst this chaos were the stories of Silicon Valley entrepreneurs, who had made it big without a college degree. He got encouraged to start something of his own and even started a company out of his hostel with his few friends, named XS Corps. Their business card carried the address of their hostel and a phone number for the DCE’s computer centre.

Later, he went on to grab an on-campus job. “I took the job with the clarity that I had to learn how to run a company, like understanding what departments exist, etc. I did three stints in different companies, learning different aspects of running a business," he stated. 

Rest is history when, in 2001, he took an Rs 8 lakh loan and started One97, the parent company of Paytm. In 2010, he launched Paytm. In 2014, the company launched Paytm digital wallet. In 2016, demonetisation happened that helped Paytm grow tremendously. In 2017, Paytm became India’s first payment app to cross over 100 million app downloads.

Advertisement

What does his story teach us? That no matter how big a failure you may think you're in school, your determination to polish yourself afterwards and perseverance towards that mission is all that matters.

Continue Reading

Edutainment

Top Entertainers That Educators Should Follow On Social Media

Meet the most entertaining and humble comedians, talk show hosts and musicians like Ellen Degeneres, Ru Paul, Joe Dombrowski, Eddie B, BTS Band and One Voice Children’s Choir.

Published

on

Meet the most entertaining and humble comedians, talk show hosts and musicians like Ellen Degeneres, Ru Paul, Joe Dombrowski, Eddie B, BTS Band and One Voice Children's Choir.

Who: Ellen DeGeneres

Bio says: Comedian, talk show host and ice road trucker. My tweets are real, and they’re spectacular. 

X-Factor: Quirky observational humour  

Advertisement

Viral post: There are hundreds of episodes that go viral from The Ellen Show but we remember the one when she met pre-K/Kindergarten teacher, Azel Prather from DC, who, after learning that many of his students couldn’t afford haircut because they belonged to low-income families, teamed up with local barbers, hairdressers, and nail technicians to pamper his students. On the show, Ellen surprised him with a brand new Hyundai Sonata and $20,000 for his NGO The Prather Foundation!

Favourite hashtag: #BurningQuestions

Top 5 accounts followed: Justin Willman, Earth Wind & Fire, The Real Talk Show, Hillary Clinton, Brielle

ScooNews loves: The episode with Memphis high school teacher, Michael Scruggs, who is known to start his class every day with a special mantra – “I am number 1, we all are number 1. Scholars get scholarships, we all get scholarships.” He’s been motivating his students every morning like this for almost a decade now. Go, watch it on YouTube now!

Follow at: @theellenshow (IG & Twitter), @ellentv (FB)

Advertisement

Who: RuPaul Charles

Bio says: You're born naked & the rest is drag

X-Factor: One of the wittiest and most compassionate LGBTQIA+ artists to bring Drag-art to the international platform

Viral post: When RuPaul scared Jimmy Fallon on ‘The Tonight Show’ that mom Jimmy Fallon genuinely thought he’d been cancelled for calling RuPaul a ‘drag queen’. But RuPaul was just joking and the video got millions of views overnight.

Currently talking about: Entering the Guinness World Records list for winning the most number of Emmy awards for Outstanding Host for a Reality or Competition show

Advertisement

Favourite hashtag: #DragRace

Top 5 accounts followed: J.K Rowling, Moira Forbes, Salon, Ts Madison, The Cut

ScooNews loves: RuPaul educates not just adults about the LGBTQIA+ community in an interactive and colourful way but also children. He/She recently inspired author Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara to write a book called ‘Little People Big Dreams,’ which explains children about the LGBTQIA+ community in a friendly manner. 

Follow at: @rupaulofficial (IG), @RuPaul (Twitter & FB)

Who: Joe Dombrowski

Advertisement

Bio says: Comedian from the 313 currently residing in the 206 which unfortunately doesn’t sound nearly as hard

X-Factor: This educator and comedian is famous for his funny education-related social media content and most notably for his Spelling Bee prank video

Viral post: When he gave his students a fake spelling test 

Current talking about: His Social Studies Podcast

Favourite hashtag: #TeacherHumor

Advertisement

Top 5 accounts followed: Andy Kindler, Gerry Dee, ClassCast Podcast, NatGeo Education, Meghan Mangrum

ScooNews loves: His teacher-memes like this one – “I’m not poor because I’m a teacher. I’m poor because of Amazon’s ‘Buy Now’ button…and I’m a teacher.”

Follow at: mrdtimes3 (IG, FB & Twitter)

Who: Eddie B 

Bio says: Eddie B is comedy on steroids. He started comedy in his senior year in college and never looked back. He has entertained crowds all over the U.S…funny and real!

Advertisement

X-Factor: He’s a school teacher turned stand-up comic. He developed himself as the voice of teachers with his brutally honest comedy.

Viral post: “What teachers really say”

Currently talking about: His virtual comedy show “Unmuted & Virtually Confused” 

Favourite hashtag: #BoredTeacher

Top 5 accounts followed: Hilariously Infertile, MEL Science, Teach.org, Teachers Pay Teachers, Teachers Tips and Fun

Advertisement

ScooNews loves: His current take on homeschooling, Google classrooms and virtual learning while schools all over the world are shut down due to the COVID-outbreak

Follow at: @eddiebcomedy (IG & FB)

Who: BTS

Bio says: This is the Official Instagram for #BTS, 'Life Goes On' Out Now

X-Factor: 7 member band has immense love for each other, world-famous but humble. Lovely voices and mad dance skill.

Advertisement

Went viral: A mash-up video of members Jin, Suga, RM, J-Hope, Jimin, V and Jungkook dancing to a Bollywood song ‘Des Rangila’ surfaced on 15th August 2020 on IG @filmforfare. The video was dedicated to Indian Independence Day and read – ‘Here’s BTS and Team Filmforfare wishing everyone a very Happy Independence Day in India’.

Currently talking about: The band regularly talks about mental health, they believe those who have an international platform and millions of listeners should talk about these pressing matters.

Favourite hashtag: #BTS

ScooNews loves: Their lyrics usually focus on the themes of mental health, troubles of school-age youth, loss, the journey towards loving oneself, and individualism. Also, listen to the speech BTS delivered at the United Nations Group of Friends of Solidarity for Global Health Security.

Follow at: @bts.bighitofficial (IG), @bts_bighit (Twitter), @bangtan.official (FB)

Advertisement

Who: One Voice Children's Choir

Bio says: We hope to spread a positive message and inspire the world with our music. Singing to make the world a better place!

X-Factor: Synchronisation, melody and a whole lot of adorable children all dressed in the colour theme performing a vast selection of music

Went viral: In 2014, the choir received national attention after releasing their performance of the Disney song "Let It Go"

Currently talking about: Christmas holiday music ‘Mary, did you know’ and ‘The More You Give The More You’ll Have!’

Advertisement

Favourite hashtag: #OneVoice

Top 5 accounts followed: Good Morning America, The Ellen Show, The New York Times, The Tonight Show, Disney

ScooNews loves: This non-profit organisation brings together children and teaches them good music. The members meet up every week once to practice and perform over 50 times a year. The songs always mean more than the lyrics, the children bring a sense of unity for the world to see.

Follow at: @onevoicechildrenschoir (IG), @1VoiceChildrens (Twitter), @OneVoiceChildrensChoir (FB), One Voice Children's Choir (YouTube)

Advertisement
Continue Reading

Edutainment

6 Times Kindergarten Teachers Turned Halloween Into Class Lessons

Let’s learn some cool DIY lessons!

Published

on

We love how innovative and interesting teachers are. They always know how to manifest their best at every occasion, don’t they? 

Recently it was Halloween and boy, did they surprise us again! Internet is flooding with unique pictures and videos of creative activities that some pre-primary/primary school teachers pulled for their beloved students making the celebration scary-fun for everyone. 

While some of their innovated kids’ activities involved easy mathematical problem-solving and science lessons, others taught life skills like observing shapes and colors of this huge, orangish-yellow fruit.  

From DIYs to science experiments to even motor skills, here are some super fun classroom glimpses commemorating the end of October.

Advertisement

1. This one is using art to teach math. To set this up:

  • Lay some butcher paper on the table.
  • Draw some Halloween shapes all over it.
  • Write down a number on each picture.
  • Put out some festive counters.

This activity teaches kids number recognition, sequencing, colour recognition, and motor skills. 

 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

SPOOKY HALLOWEEN MATH ???? ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ This tabletop butcher paper activity is one of my favourite ways to present Math to my kiddos. It's not only quick, cheap, and easy to set up, but provides an opportunity for the kids to do Math while using their artistic flair! ???? ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ The concept is simple – use the Halloween accessories to decorate each picture with the correct number of things! (i.e. see a drawing of a bone with the number '5' on it, decorate it with five of the mini bones! ☠) ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ To set this up: 1. Lay some butcher paper on the table. 2. Draw some Halloween shapes all over it. 3. Write down a number on each picture. 4. Put out some festive counters. ???????? ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Lots of fine motor work goes on here, in addition to number recognition, counting, sequencing, ordering, colour recognition, and just plain #Math. For such a simple activity, there's a lot packed in! ???? ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ #MomHacks #EverydayInvitationToPlay #PerfectPreschoolPlans #EverydayPlayHacks #InvitationToPlay #EarlyMathSkills #MathSkills #PreKActivities #EarlyEducation #EarlyLearning #PlayAllDay #BoredomBusters #PlayBasedLearning #PlayMatters #EYFSIdeas #ECE #EarlyYearsEducator #EarlyChildoodEducator #PreschoolActivities #Preschool #Montessori #MontessoriAtHome #SimplePlay #HomeschoolPreschool #EarlyMath #HalloweenActivities #HomeschoolActivities

A post shared by Shannon ???????? | Early Years Play (@perfectpreschoolplans) on

 

Advertisement

2. Pumpkin carving is fun but have you tried teaching them pumpkin’s anatomy? This educator has taken the opportunity to tell her little learners about the inside parts of a pumpkin. See how words like skin, pulp, seeds, stem, fibre strands, etc. are taught here.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Turn pumpkin carving into a science activity with a color-cut-and-paste PUMPKIN CARVING activity. As kids carve their pumpkins they can learn what to call all the parts inside like the pulp, skin, seeds, and fibrous strands. Just imagine them saying, "Mom, can you please help me remove all the fibrous strands?"–So smart!!! Get this FREE printable. Search "LEARNING ABOUT PUMPKINS" on our blog or click the Holidays-Halloween tab to find this idea and more. Post Url: https://alittlepinchofperfect.com/learning-about-pumpkins-explore-color-and-label-free-printable/ SAVE this idea for later & follow us for more Kids Activities ⭐️@alittlepinchofperfect . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . #alittlepinchofperfect #carvingpumpkins #pumpkincarving #pumpkins #homeschool #homeschooling #homeschoolmom #homeschoollife #schoolathome #homeschoolfamily #homeschoolfun #homeschoolers #homeschoolrocks #homeschoolcurriculum #scienceiscool #sciencefun #scienceforkids #preschool #kindergartenfun #kindergartener #preschooler #kindergartenactivities #preschoolactivities #firstgrader #firstgradeactivities

A post shared by Katie ALittlePinchofPerfect (@alittlepinchofperfect) on

3. With the help of a simple Halloween-themed paper cut-out, this activity involves finding the same letter that’s spread all over the design, amidst the various other letters. Looks easy? We think not. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Working on letter P identification and came across this idea to make it into a Halloween themed cut out and mixed in random letters. This was a HUGE HIT! What Halloween or fall themed activities are you doing this month? ???????? . . . #otmamacita #otmamacitamomhack #halloweenthemedactivities #letterrecognitionactivity #phonics #phonicsforkids #letterrecognition #preschoolactivities #prekhomeschool #prekactivities #kindergartenteacher #kindergartenactivities #preschoolteacher #holidaythemedactivities #occupationaltherapy #occupationaltherapist #occupationaltherapystudent #cota #otactivitiesforkids #otactivities #earlylearningactivities #earlyreaders #visualperceptualskills #visualmotorintegration #finemotoractivities #pencilgrasp

A post shared by OT Mamacita (@otmamacita) on

Advertisement

 

4. How to better your students’ observation skills? Simple – place pumpkins of all shapes and sizes in front of them and let them draw the way they see this fruit! Here are some adorable results:

 

 

 

Advertisement

5. This teacher has integrated math, science, and social studies together into the thematic activities. One such game includes measuring the circumference of the pumpkin using chain-links and comparing the result with the figure they estimated before doing so. 

 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

???? Pumpkin Week ???? is one of my favorite weeks in October! Teaching thematically and immersing my students in this topic helps increase motivation and student mastery of skills, while allowing me to hit multiple content areas and standards. Plus, these pumpkin investigation activities are just plain FUN! The kids love Pumpkin Week! Some years, we will complete our pumpkin investigations before Halloween. Other years (read… when we run out of time), we complete them just before Thanksgiving. That’s the beauty of pumpkin season… It really lasts all fall long! In the past, I have always used yarn to measure the circumference of a pumpkin, but last year we used chain links. Let me tell you… the chain links are a total game changer! They are so easy for the kids to hook together, fit around the pumpkin and count how many! I’m sharing how I integrate math, literacy, science and social studies into our pumpkin investigation activities on the blog. Click the link in my profile to see all 20 activities! Let me know your favorite pumpkin week activity ???? in the comments! #pumpkin #pumpkinseason #halloween #halloweencrafts #kindergarten #kindergartenteacher #kindergartenclassroom #kindergartenactivities #firstgradeteachers #firstgradeclassroom #firstgrade #firstgradeteacher #1stgrade #1stgradeteacher #teach #teachersofinstagram #teacher #teachers #teachersofig #iteachtoo #iteachfirst #iteachk #onesharpbunch

A post shared by One Sharp Bunch®️ (@onesharpbunch) on

 

Advertisement

6. And here comes our favourite teacher. This one may not be teaching any new skill to her students this Halloween but is making sure they become confident and content individuals and keen learners. She believes that like other subjects, art, too, requires step-by-step guidance. She calls this ‘Directed Drawing.’ According to her, drawing may not come naturally to many kids but with right guidance, they definitely can learn! We second her. 

 

 
 
 
 
Continue Reading

Edutainment

Wisconsin Teacher Sings FRIENDS Parody Version For His Students 

Paul Miller, a teacher in the United States, welcomes his new class for a new (remote) session in a very delightful and interesting way

Published

on

Who doesn’t remember the iconic 90's American sitcom F.R.I.E.N.D.S about six friends living in New York, that was premiered for almost a decade? Recently, a teacher in the USA went viral after he used its famous title song to cheer his students up while the schools are closed. 

Paul Miller, a teacher of Appleton East High School in Wisconsin, created a parody of the FRIENDS theme song ‘I’ll be there for you’ to virtually welcome his students in the new session. His parody implied that he shall always be around to support his students and that they can count on him even if they cannot meet him in person. 

His song's lyrics say – “So no one told me that life was gonna be this way. I got my lessons ready, but the students are MIA… I’ll be here for you when you’re learning at home. I’ll be here for you, and you’ll watch me on Chrome.”

Since his school decided to reopen remotely for the new session, this English teacher’s efforts felt right in every way to bring hope and joy among the excited young students. 

Advertisement

Miller said that his ‘welcome ritual’ has been consistent over the years, though this year he did have to be a little extra creative. How amazing that he chooses to sing to his students every year, right?

He said, "Obviously, I am not an expert musician. My intent is to show them that I am not afraid to take a risk and I want them to push themselves as well. This year, I have no live students because our district is fully virtual. So, I decided to put the ukelele down and make a music video to send home to my students.”

Well, we must say his artistic imagination was surely loved by his pupil as well as the people on the internet. See for yourself!

 

Advertisement

Continue Reading

Edutainment

ScooReview: Coach Carter, A Film Based on The Beautiful Mentor-Mentee Relationship in Sports

Its time to watch a sports movie, Coach Carter, starring none other than Samuel L. Jackson

Published

on

Coach Carter, directed by Thomas Carter and starring Samuel L. Jackson as Coach Carter, is an Americal film in the genre of sports teen drama. 

The film is based on the true story of Richmond High School in California and their basketball coach, Ken Carter. They made headlines in 1999 for suspension of the undefeated high-school basketball team due to poor academic results.

The story revolves around Coach Carter and his basketball team in high school. He gets hired as the coach because of being the alumni and ex-team player for the school. Though hired only to better the game of the team, he takes care of their academic scores, too, and makes them abide by a contract which obligates the players to maintain a minimum academic grade if they want to play for the team.

But Coach Carter, when learns of bad grades of the players, suspends the team from playing. He asks the performers to improve their grades as he wants them to have other options than basketball in life. Initially misunderstood and opposed by the board, Coach Carter’s intension and motives get clear to the players and they finally begin to strive hard to advance their academics to be able to play again.

Advertisement

Eventually, all the delinquents and rowdy students realise what their coach has been saying all along, and although they do not win the final game, they get praised by their opponents and coach for the brilliant show and team spirit.

Lesson

There can be times when students reject teachers and their philosophies and not understand what they are doing and why. The moral of the movie is that teachers always think ahead for the betterment of their pupil. With this film, we learn to invest trust in our educators and develop the patience to understand their motives. Because, at the end of the day, teachers only love to see their students succeed, don’t they?

Advertisement
Continue Reading

Newsletter

Advertisement
Education1 day ago

India-Bhutan Strengthen Ties: Focus on STEM Education

Inspiration5 days ago

Life of My Father: Dr. Jagdish Gandhi, a Pioneer in Education

Education6 days ago

Jharkhand Introduces Innovative Schemes to Support Higher Education Aspirants

Education1 week ago

Ministry of Women and Child Development Unveils National Curriculum Framework for Early Childhood Care and Education

Education1 week ago

Shri Dharmendra Pradhan launches various initiatives in School and Teacher Education

Knowledge2 weeks ago

Empowering the next generation: How mentorship shapes the future of young women’s professions

Education2 weeks ago

Mayo College Girls’ School, Ajmer Welcomes New Principal, Mrs Neeti Bhalla Saini

Inspiration2 weeks ago

International Women’s Day 2024: Are We Not Special?

Education2 weeks ago

Frontier Technology Labs to Revolutionise School Learning in India, Thanks to AIM, NITI Aayog, and Meta Collaboration

Education2 weeks ago

NCERT Introduces Holistic Report Cards: A New Era in Student Assessment

Education2 weeks ago

Nurturing Future Leaders through Early Entrepreneurship Education

Teacher teaching good touch and bad touch to children using colourful graphs
Education2 weeks ago

National Safety Day: The Importance of Teaching Good Touch and Bad Touch in Schools

Education2 weeks ago

Dr Anju & Dr. Pascal Chazot Get Highest French Award by the French Government

Addressing the student suicides in Kota and beyond
Education3 weeks ago

Confronting the Crisis: Addressing Student Suicides in Kota and Beyond

Education3 weeks ago

Teach for India Invites Applications for its 2024 Fellowship Program

Education3 weeks ago

Overcoming Board Exam Stress: A Guide for Students and Parents

Knowledge3 weeks ago

National Science Day: Achieving the Dream of Viksit Bharat Through Education

Education3 weeks ago

Ministry of Education Launches ‘Mera Pehla Vote Desh Ke Liye’ Campaign to Empower Young Voters

Education3 weeks ago

World NGO Day: Including Social Service and Philanthropy in Curriculum

Education3 weeks ago

India Sets 6-Year Minimum Age for Class 1 Admissions Nationwide

Education4 weeks ago

Education or Profit? Bombay High Court Calls for Accessible Learning for All

Education4 weeks ago

CBSE considering Open Book Exams for classes 9-12, to do a pilot run in November

Education4 weeks ago

Kerala Introduces ‘Water-Bell’ Initiative in Schools to Boost Hydration

Edutainment4 weeks ago

A Voice for All Ages: The Enduring Legacy of Ameen Sayani in Indian Education

Education4 weeks ago

From 2025-26, Indian Students to Get Two Opportunities to Sit for Board Exams

Inspiration5 days ago

Life of My Father: Dr. Jagdish Gandhi, a Pioneer in Education

Education2 months ago

Empowering the Future: The Success of Beti Bachao Beti Padhao in Girls’ Education

Education2 months ago

Mayo College Announces New Leadership

Education2 months ago

Central Government Sets New Framework for Coaching Centres

News3 months ago

Central and State Governments Drive NEP 2020 Implementation Initiatives

Education2 months ago

Anticipating a Progressive Leap: The Education Sector’s Hopes for Union Budget 2024

News3 months ago

Indore to Host India’s Pinnacle Learning Experience: The Great Indian Learning Festival 2023

Education2 months ago

India to recognise Farsi as a classical language under New Education Policy

Education2 months ago

The Need to Preserve Newspapers for Bias-Free Education

Education2 months ago

Farewell to a Pioneer: Dr. Jagdish Gandhi’s Enduring Legacy in Education

Education1 month ago

Lexicon Schools Spark Innovation with STEAM Fest

Edutainment2 months ago

Target Publications hosts workshop for grade 10th and 12th students of Snehasadan Shelter Homes and Reap NGO

Education1 month ago

Radio Broadcasting in Schools: Creating a Platform for Student Voices

News3 months ago

CBSE Introduces Psychological Guidance Ahead of Board Exams 2024

News2 months ago

Seth M. R. Jaipuria School launches CBSE School in Bhiwadi, Rajasthan

Education1 month ago

The Rising Leaders’ Summit 2024: A Timeless Learning for Future Educational Leaders

Edutainment4 weeks ago

A Voice for All Ages: The Enduring Legacy of Ameen Sayani in Indian Education

News3 months ago

India’s Ministry of Education and Election Commission Forge Partnership to Integrate Electoral Literacy into School and College Education

Knowledge2 months ago

Is Students’ Data in Safe Hands in a Digital World?

Education4 weeks ago

From 2025-26, Indian Students to Get Two Opportunities to Sit for Board Exams

Education4 weeks ago

ISRO Launches Young Scientist Programme 2024 for Budding Space Enthusiasts

News2 months ago

TAISI Revives Annual Student Sports Event After 3-Year Hiatus

Education2 months ago

Can Hindi Become the Next Global Language?

Education4 weeks ago

Kerala Introduces ‘Water-Bell’ Initiative in Schools to Boost Hydration

News3 months ago

The Great Indian Learning Festival 2023 Wraps Up with Resounding Success

Education4 months ago

SGEF2023 | Special Address by Rama Datt, Trustee, Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II Trust, Jaipur

Education5 months ago

ScooNews | After Movie | ScooNews Global Educators Fest 2023

Knowledge1 year ago

Aftermovie | NIES2 UP Chapter | 21 Jan 2023

Knowledge1 year ago

WEBINAR | Gamification in Education: How Digital Badges Can Boost Student Motivation and Engagement

Knowledge1 year ago

ScooNews | WEBINAR| Importance of Physical Activity for Children at School | Plaeto

Knowledge1 year ago

SCOONEWS | WEBINAR | WHY DIGITIZING YOUR SCHOOL IS A MUST | TEACHMINT

Knowledge2 years ago

Keynote Address | Lakshyaraj Singh Mewar

Knowledge2 years ago

Anurag Tripathi, Secretary, CBSE at SGEF2022

Inspiration2 years ago

How schools can nurture every student’s genius

Knowledge2 years ago

Aftermovie | SGEF2022 | Jaipur

Knowledge2 years ago

Li Andersson | Minister of Education | Finland

Knowledge2 years ago

Anurag Tripathi, Secretary, Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) discusses NEP2020

Knowledge5 years ago

ScooNews | Early Ed Asia 2019 | Aftermovie

News5 years ago

#PodarECEconf : Pursuing quality ECE

News6 years ago

#CBSE Class XII #Results #Highlights

Education7 years ago

The interesting story of India’s educational system | Adhitya Iyer

Inspiration7 years ago

A young scientist’s quest for clean water

Inspiration7 years ago

The Danger of Silence: Clint Smith

Knowledge7 years ago

National Digital Library of India is an initiative by HRD Ministry

Inspiration7 years ago

Remembering Kalpana Chawla on her birthday!

Inspiration7 years ago

Message from Sadhguru for Students!

Inspiration7 years ago

Message from Sadhguru for Students!

Inspiration7 years ago

The Untapped Genius That Could Change Science for the Better

Education7 years ago

Eddy Zhong: How school makes kids less intelligent TEDxYouth@Beacon

Education7 years ago

#TEDxCanberra : What if every child had access to music education…

Trending