www.queenmira.com 1 2 YAGNA | January 2020

GLOBAL CONNECT “ “ FORMER US PRESIDENT

BARACK OBAMA SAYS PARIS CLIMATE DEAL IS STILL THE WAY FORWARD

AT 34, “ FINNISH MINISTER SANNA MARIN BECOMES WORLD’S YOUNGEST PM “ “

SAUDI RESTAURANTS NO LONGER NEED TO SEGREGATE“ WOMEN AND MEN

NOSTRADAMUS TIMES

JANUARY • Pongal Celebration • Marathon - Project ECO - Q Editor In Chief • Sales Day S.HARITHA FEBRUARY Sub Editors KALPANA KARTHICK • Health Camp AYSHA SIDDIKA FEROZE • Grand Parents Day Student Editors MARCH PRAJITH SELVARAJ SHERBOURN ISSAC.S • Aadukalam ANUSHA THENU SUBRAMANIAN CONTENTS

MESSAGE FROM THE DIRECTOR-ACADEMICS ...... 8 Q’S OUTREACH PROGRAM ...... 9 COUNSELLOR’S INSTINCT ...... 10 HARAPPAN SCRIPTS ...... 11 CONOISSEUR’S EXHORTATION ...... 12 MISSION ACCOMPLISHED ...... 14 SIXTH SENSE ...... 16 CAREER CHOICES ...... 18 PATH THE NAVIGATOR ...... 20 GAITIES & CELEBRITIES ...... 22 AMAZING FACTS & FRESH THOUGHTS ...... 25 QUASAR KIDS ...... 26 TRAILBLAZER ...... 27 TRAVELOGUE ...... 28 CONNEXIONS COLUMN ...... 29 LEARNER’S COLUMN ...... 30 AGARAM ...... 32 STAR OF THE YEAR ...... 34 JUNIOR JOURNALIST ...... 38 CHILD HEALTH AND SAFETY ...... 39 SPORTS ...... 40 Q’S ACHIEVEMENTS...... 42 THE EDITOR

Hello Readers, I extend my warm greeting to you all with yet another exciting edition of Yagna. As we march towards the closure of another year that was 2019. The theme for this edition is An Inconvenient Truth, PLASTIC apart from which we will recapture a few memorable events / updates from our campus. An Inconvenient Truth is an Oscar-winning documentary about the environment featuring the unlikeliest of movie stars. Former presidential candidate Al Gore holds this film together as, in front of an audience and with few aids beyond photo slides, he explains how humans have messed up the planet. Gore issues an urgent warning on what must be done, and done quickly, to save the earth. I urge all of you to watch this documentary. Why has this turned into such an epic problem that has got all to the edge of their seats and worried? Plastic is a word that originally meant “pliable and easily shaped.” It only recently became a name for a category of materials called polymers. The word polymer means “of many parts,” and polymers are made of long chains of molecules. The first synthetic polymer was invented in 1869 by John Wesley Hyatt, who was inspired by a New York firm’s offer of $10,000 for anyone who could provide a substitute for ivory. The growing popularity of billiards had put a strain on the supply of natural ivory, obtained through the slaughter of wild elephants. In about a 100+ years plastic has entered all arenas and is subconsciously omnipresent. What is the first sight that you come across as you enter any human habitation / city /town? Mounds and mounds of garbage and predominantly multi colored plastic. Plastic has a full life (as in the time it takes to degrade to the natural form) of approximately 50+ years. That means, by the time a plastic can erode, we would have a mass of the dimension of our planet itself. That is the size of the problem, which has got everyone worried and at the edge of their seats. I am petrified when I remember the Chennai floods of 2015, in its aftermath wherever the deluge receded; it left a trail of Plastic on every tree, shrub, building and drain. In this edition, we will have articles educating us on the Pros & Cons and other alternatives you could use to reduce this strain on our fragile environment and help improve sustainability. At this juncture, we thank the people who were the back bone in bringing out this edition of yagna successfully. We thank our subeditors, student editors, column in charges and our external editor Dr.PV.Christi, Associate Professor in English, Research Center of English, Fatima College for extending her help in bringing successful yet another edition. We thank our Designing Partner - Odd Dimension Advertising and our Print Partner - Vinagaya Screens for their unstinting support. Wish you all a Happy Newyear!

Haritha.S Editor in Chief

6 YAGNA | January 2020 STUDENT EDITORS

We the student editors through this editorial would into a plastic container. The amount of toxins and like to share the various Pros and Cons of Plastic chemicals that leach out from the plastic container into the food is unimaginable. If you have to order Plastic in any form or quality is harmful to health, food from outside, ask the restaurant the grade of period. In a perfect world you would want to avoid plastic being used. Grade one; four and five are safer exposure to all forms of plastic. Considering plastic than grade three and seven. Grade three and seven lurks in every nook and corner of our lives, banishing are the cheapest and most restaurants use them to it completely seems unrealistic and impractical. save on cost. We can start with awareness about the little ways by • Most organic and farmers’ markets offer dry ration which we can reduce our exposure to plastic. This in paper, cartons or cloth bags. But if you are buying can go a long way in reducing toxicity, hormonal groceries from a local shop, transfer all that comes imbalance, cancer, infertility, PCOS, obesity, etc. in plastic packets and bottles (e.g.: cooking oils, Some practical and handy solutions that can help us dals, spices, rice, flours) into glass, steel or clay jars gradually do away with plastic from our lives are: as soon as it reaches your kitchen. If you purchase something bottled in glass, clean it and reuse it. • Discard plastic bottles at home and switch to glass, clay, stainless steel or copper bottles. If you are • Avoid drinking hot liquids in plastic cups. When travelling and have access to only bottled mineral hot liquid goes into them there are chemicals being water (which is plastic), carry your own non-plastic leached into the drink. Instead, opt for glass cups, bottle with water. mason jars or bring your own cup. • If you have plastic water filters, make a change and • Believe it or not there is plastic in some of our clothes switch to clay pots. They are perfect for summer too. The so-called ‘wrinkle free’ fabrics are not and naturally purify the water too. safe and contain Teflon, which is a kind of plastic. Organic and natural fabrics like cotton, wool and • Traditional India ate out of stainless steel, copper, linen may be the safest options when it comes to metal, banana leaf, clay, wooden plates and that’s your health. This is also why Teflon-coated non- how it should be. Change your tiffin boxes right stick cookware should be banned in your kitchen. now! For children, stainless steel is safer. At the same time, no matter how true the claim about Thus we conclude by telling that the use of plastics lunch boxes being microwave safe is, it doesn’t is dangerous for our health and not only harmful to mean it won’t leach chemicals. As we all know, mankind but also to the other organisms that live on microwaving itself is harmful. earth. • Minimize food takeaways and home delivery So let’s say no to plastic and start following the ways services because we have no control over the type which we used earlier that were much healthier for us of plastic they use. Most of the times, restaurants as well as the rest of the life on earth. and cafes transfer the food straight from the pan

Prajith Selvaraj Sherbourn Issac.S Anusha Thenu Subramanian Grade 11, QMIS Grade 11, QMIS

www.queenmira.com 7 MESSAGE FROM DIRECTOR ACADEMICS

Dear Readers, With the blessings of Almighty and the support of well wishers QMIS is successfully marching through its 10th year. With a sense of contentment, we retrospect the 10 years of journey. As committed to the society, we had never compromised in developing the leaders of tomorrow by providing a holistic education nurturing body, mind and soul. QMIS is glad to shape the next generation in all dimensions besides making a paradigm shift in the pedagogy. Though a CBSE school, we have consciously integrated components for global mindedness by blending UN sustainable development goals in the day to day lesson plan deliverance. Values are infused as a non negotiable component of every lesson. Collaboration and Critical thinking, the core skills of 21st century learners are also thoughtfully mapped into the daily lessons. Philosophically QMIS believes in ensuring the well being of body, mind and soul and we strongly believe in the adage “a sound mind in a sound body”. Constant efforts are made to encourage the children to participate in sports and fitness activities. Opportunities are not restricted within the weekly 2 P.E and 1 yoga period. Through the regular after school programmes we try to reach our aim of fit individuals. Unfortunately Sports is seen more as an area of success only when the child accomplishes and wins a medal. We parents fail to see it as a program to ensure physical fitness. Despite the child’s interest, it is been discouraged at home especially when the child is average or below average in his/ her academic performance. “Let him/ her not attend P.E period and provide extra classes” is the most common dialogue that lingers in the hall way during our PTCs. Similarly, the importance given for Sports activities diminishes after Grade 8. It is high time to alert and remind all of us the forgotten saying “all work and no play, makes Jack a dull boy”. Unfortunately, it is only 5 to 10 percent of the students are involved in Sports and it is not just the national statistics but QMIS too. With this contribution, we cannot dream of making the country shine in the sports arena. School is making conscious efforts to make Sports as a way of life not just to keep them physically fit but to enrich their life with values. Sports not just enhances the physical well being but takes lessons like discipline, responsibility, self-confidence , accountability and team work. Sports impacts on education are also limitless. It helps in fighting stress, improve the cognitive and memory function of the brain. With the infrastructure that caters to almost all the sports interests and a strong, passionate physical education team, we are bringing in a change in the structure of the school program and make fitness program more comprehensive and compulsory across all grades . Sports are not seen just as components to show case in the Aadukalam or to win trophies in various inter school, state and national events. The significance of the sports will be highlighted in every possible means. Fitness program is to be mandated right from Kindergarten to Grade 12 from AY 2020-2021. With the confidence in our very supportive parent community, QMIS marches towards building fitter individuals. Let this New Year be the dawn of all success and fitness in our child’s stride.

With warm wishes

Sujatha Guptan

8 YAGNA | January 2020 Q’S OUTREACH PROGRAM

“It is not enough to compassionate, you must act” suggestions regarding external outreach program - Dalai Lama were aiding the nearby municipality school students with 21st century skills, i.e. critical thinking, As an extension of our school’s initiatives towards public speaking, communication and creativity, by global citizenship principle, Queen Mira is now conducting seminars by staffs & students on regular planning to initiate an outreach program, considering basis, and conducting certain events like talent night & the development of our school as well as the society MUN for them, providing them with an opportunity that we live in. As a first phase planning towards to bring out their unique talents and debating skills. the outreach program, the previous batch student Apart from these there were also many generalized council members along with their head boy, Calvin suggestions like cleaning the community, which Bernard, and head girl, Anchana Guptan, and the was also taken into consideration. As the ideas were current batch of once collected, school parliament the session members along further moved with their Prime into discussing minister, Guhan about the funds Kaalai, and Deputy and various prime minister, other practical Thirupathi, were difficulties in assembled in the bringing these cyber studio where ideas regarding the session for the outreach programs first phase planning into reality. Some happened. The of the ideas for session was the funds were predominantly utilizing the student driven. Our money collected school’s Managing from the sales day, Director, Mr. then the funds that Abinath Chandran, can be collected and Director by providing our Academics, Ms. highly facilitated Sujatha Guptan, headed the session in the presence of school ground for external players with certain staff members from Global Citizenship Committee. restrictions over their usage of ground. As the grand In the beginning of the session the students were finale of the session, in its last minutes, an astounding requested to come with ideas separately for internal idea of forming a NGO of alumni and management and external Outreach Programs, more like a rapid was elaborated by the students, which would solve brain storming session. For which students churned various practical difficulties regarding manpower and various exciting and innovative ideas for the funds, placing our ideas closer to reality. I conclude betterment of the school and the society. the article with the words of Helen Keller, “Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much” The most significant idea regarding the internal outreach program was installing a water & paper- recycling unit in the campus, as recycling water & papers would be an efficient way to create an eco friendly environment, it also cut down a considerable amount of money spent on papers for the functioning Teacher Incharge: Ms.Anita Rajesh of school, which created a win-win situation. The Student Incharge: Guhan Kaalai.C

www.queenmira.com 9 COUNSELLOR’S INSTINCT

Ms Joshila: Growing children are left with little space to think, explore and develop as individuals. Pressure from various dimensions make them work monotonously rather than independently with likes and dislikes. So the children’s patience is contracted. By providing support and guidance to them , the school can provide a healthy space to grow , hone one’s talents and discover oneself. Resource Person: Ms Joshila - Psychologist Naren: Please do suggest some means to reduce the School-going children regularly face difficulties in Students Reluctance? adjusting to the changing environment at home and school. Developing friendship bonds, handling Ms Joshila: Appreciation is needed when students academic pressures, sibling relationships, under attempt to move towards their target. They need standing self and changing dynamics are the major little more push to be placed when they work. In concerns they face. In school settings, this translates the beginning supportive classes for the particular into an ignorance of students’ needs till the time students may help them to overcome such attitudes. they convey the same through their words or actions. There should be no labelling of students. Quiet children ,who are not trouble makers, thus Ms Shajitha: What kind of general concerns are faced often go unnoticed in class. Let’s pause here and read by the students in the society? the below conversation. Ms Joshila: Students are very sensitive to all the Ms Shajitha: What is the role of a class mentor in distractive resources. Gadget usage has tremendously taking care of the children increased among students as well as in the parents’ Ms Joshila: A Mentor should develop a perspective community. These days students’ thinking ability is of Parental view. Every teacher will have to take on decreasing since they are occupied with gadgets and the role of a counsellor for addressing the needs of the misuse their sense organs and give more stress for children on an everyday basis. When a child is not their eyes. good inside the classroom, it is mentor’s responsibility Verbal abuse has increased among students through to make the particular child normal by understanding media. In recent days students tend to imitate another the root cause of the behaviour rather simply asking person which leads to lose their own individuality. questions. A Mentor should facilitate the students to These lapses can be reduced by developing a constant take their own decisions and allow them to express conversation with them. Students’ intention of sharing their view. A Mentor should act as a demonstrator to their regular routines with their parents for building all the students. a large gap between the parents and their children. Naren: What can be done to improvise a child’s Peer influences have both the merits and demerits. Socialising skills? The mentor/school must work in tandem with the home / parents towards a healthy, loving, caring and Ms Joshila: More time should be spent with peer supportive environment. groups. They need to share their ideas and opinions to each other. If students are reluctant in interacting Ms. Joshila to Parents and Teachers : The most and joining with the group members a Mentor and important aspect here is for parents and teachers to the Shadow friend must explain about the importance develop personal bonds with children so that they feel of such bonding. Before initiating any group activity, comfortable in approaching them to share and discuss proper explanation should reach the students like important events and experiences in their lives , their acceptance and sharing of positive and negative fears , anxieties and emotional states. Space provided opinions. for more sharing will make them responsible citizens. Ms Shajitha: Nowadays , children lack patience and tolerance . Why? How this can be rectified? Teacher Incharge: Ms.Shajitha Student Incharge: Naren Moorthy

10 YAGNA | January 2020 HARAPPAN SCRIPTS

Teacher Incharge: Ms.Manimegalai Student Incharge: Muhamed Aslam.S CONNOISSEUR’S EXHORTATION

AVOID PLASTICS IS PLASTIC HAZARDOUS OR Yagna Column in charge crew met USER FRIENDLY? with an expert , Prof. Kottaisami who belong to the Department of Across countries , one million Chemistry at Thiagarajar College plastic drinking bottles are of Engineering , Madurai. He purchased every minute, while up shared his best practices and to 5 trillion single-use plastic bags insight with the team about are used worldwide every year. In plastics and its usage. According total, half of all plastic produced to him , usually people exploit is designed to be used only once plastic to the maximum and say - and then thrown away. Plastic they are hazardous. During our waste is now so omnipresent in the usage , we say it’s useful then natural environment that scientists after a while we say its waste and have even suggested it could serve hazardous. * High quality Plastics as a geological indicator of the are imported from abroad and Prof. Kottaisami revealed about Anthropocene era. So how did we we use it as a raw material for appropriate usage of plastic from his get here? making plastic items. * experiences. We are not recycling To get to understand in depth , and reusing them properly. Plastics without being recycled are used by poor people by scavenging. It is a bread winning material for them. In this world nothing is hazardous. Plastics are neither dangerous nor friendly . But it should be used properly. It is ever friendly when we recycled properly. Again, you can use them to convert into petroleum and many products as 4% crude oil can be derived or extracted from plastics. There are two types of engineering. USES: Reverse engineering and Forward engineering. In forward

12 YAGNA | January 2020 engineering 4% of crude oil is orientated subjects. There should be made using recycle of plastics as converted→/Monomere(like not be a single paper or chocolate we can coat the stones with plastic Ethylene,propolyene cover seen on the road or outside materials which reflects in tar. and*Styrene)→ plastics. public areas for which every child Plastic containers are not a threat Using Reverse engineering again and citizen should take initiative to plants until they are protected from crude oil after distillation ofit to put it in the dustbin from their properly. It affects surface, If use in we get petrol, diesel, LPG, wax and childhood. They always should farms you can reuse it. If plastics many materials. We can produce have an empty bag in their purse are having a ultraviolet material it more bye products only if we use or handbag to put waste materials. gets affected. it properly. If we put the waste in the Is there any alternative to avoid Plastics contain carbon and dustbin, soil does not get affected plastics in our life.? hydrogen. Plastics” includes which prevents earth from global warming. If we perform Answer: What is the alternative for materials composed of various life? elements such as carbon, any activity against nature ,an hydrogen, oxygen, nitrogen, adverse effect would be on the Due to burning of plastics many chlorine, and sulfur. Typically, the next generation. Allow others to industries have loss in their plastic bottles used to hold potable live and grow for a sustainable business. commodity price is water and other drinks are made life. Life style is changing now. more because of plastics. Before in from polyethylene terephthalate Governments should take view newspaper packing was there now (PET), because the material is both very seriously upon the persons its plastic paper package. who cut trees and steal sand . strong and light. To understand the Plastic is a great invention. Proper manufacturing process, it’s helpful Dr. Sami’s Advice for our segregation should be there. to first examine the composition generation: His words and his Proper usage of plastics leads to of PET and how this affects plastic activities.“Never disturb nature good life. We have seen a lot of bottles. and our environment”.“If you positive action, but the truth is that When does plastic turn point out others for blaming your we all need to do more . There are hazardous?: three fingers points you first”. Like so many things that we can do – that we are only creating problems from asking the restaurants to stop Just throwing plastics into and blaming others. Every material using plastic straws , to bringing water bodies like lakes, rivers and in this world is made for some our own coffee mug to work , to ponds changes the nature of water purpose. Everyone knows it can pressurizing our local authorities and affects the aquatic animals be recycled . Anyone who doesn’t to improve how they manage our digestive system. Animals have the know how to recycle and reuse city’s waste. more aroma sense . As we throw plastic only say that it is hazardous. plastic bags of hotel waste products Plastic has its own values. We it gets attracted and eats the same. can make pavement blocks using Throwing plastic in the soil causes plastics during travelling. Plastic soil erosion . coated iron rods can be used to How to dispose: avoid rusting of iron rods. Prof. Kottaisami gave an awareness He has started a project of petrol to student community on the plant. In his apartment he has following grounds : started using the same . If we burn plastic in the presence of air it is They are to be taught life skills to dangerous. you can walk if the lead a sustainable life by judicious distance is ½ or 1 km instead of usage of scarce resources . using bikes. If we walk it is good Education system should not Teacher Incharges: for our health and production of allow the students to aim for high Ms.Archana Karthikeyan carbon dioxide is reduced in our marks instead Schools should Ms.Samira body. take enterprise to teach life skills Student Incharge: for the students with application Rules to use plastics: Roads can Samira Afshan

www.queenmira.com 13 MISSION ACCOMPLISHED

ADVENTURE CLUB Day out activity where they had tea together on top of a mountain followed with fun filled activities “Travellers Are Dreamers Who Make Their Desires Day 2: After breakfast, we moved to see a waterfall for Adventure a Reality” over there. At the end of each day the instructors “We at QMIS believe in ensuring the wellbeing of the had a session called self-reflection where students body, mind and soul of the individual by instilling expressed their experiences of the day. a steady growth mindset, who learn and unlearn to Day 3: On this rainy day, we the campers had an emerge as change makers.” With this philosophy in adventurous HIKING. The mountain that we had mind, Queen Mira International School organized a climbed was 2500ft above mean sea level. It was a camping trip for graders 4 to 9 & 11. very thrilling experience. And in the evening, they On the eve of 2nd September, 2019, around 66 conducted YPL for the students. That evening talent students from grades 4 to 11 accompanied by 8 staff night was hosted for the students at the resort, where members set off on an adventurous camping trip to an array of hidden talents was showcased for the COORG – a place famous for coffee and its highly audience. cultured people. WE, the adventurous travellers Day 4: The final day of the camping expedition, we sought the blessings of Almighty and the wishes of the carried home memorable reminiscences and received management and energetically began our trip sharp certificates for our participation. at 04.00 pm as planned. Taking a break in between, we reached the destination - The Green Valley Resort, Camping at Coorg was one of the best fun filled Coorg at 09.30 am the next morning (03/09/2019). learning sessions we had. We thank the management The adventure began right from the moment we got for organizing such wonderful trips for us. down from the bus, because we were able to reach the camping site only through a jeep safari across the lush forest area. Crossing a stream on a jeep was an unforgettable experience. Finally, we reached the camping site and there we met the instructors of “YOUREKA”. The instructors introduced themselves and the activities for 4 days were planned. The schedule is as follows Day 1: After completing lunch the 4 groups went for a

14 YAGNA | January 2020 POPCORN CLUB SCIENCE CLUB “We all must do theatre to find out who we are, As a part of science club Grade 3 to 9 had their Next and to discover who we could become” Education-science lab session from 3pm to 4pm.We - Augusto Boal have completed 2 activities for each grade from 3 to 9. Students learnt science concept through these fun activities. It was easy to understand the basic concept with Reflection sheet which has been provided in their observation book.The observation book with real life example made the session interactive. Students were very eager to go hands on. The lists of activities are given below.

Grade 3 1. Internal Organs 2. Family Tree

Grade 4 1. Model of Teeth 2. Digestive System

Grade 5 1. Skeleton 2. Power Car

Grade 6 1. Yarn Spindle 2. Nutrients and balanced diet

Grade 7 1. Stethoscope 2. Lung model

On 5th December, 2019 popcorn club conducted Grade 8 an exclusive session to hone movie making 1. Pump skills. We had a guest speaker provoking the 2. Pressure in liquids minds of young directors. The session was more about knowing the importance of films in order to bring out imagination into the screenplay. Grade 9 Mr.Nagendran, Professor working at The American 1. Energy Meter College kindled the hearts of the students with his 2. Separation methods. own experience in reaching the heights in movie making. Mr.KeerthiRaja shared priceless ideas on pre-production and post-prodution. He mainly Teacher Incharge: concentrated on educating the children to come up Ms.Joy Sheeba & Ms.Archana Rajendran with colourful and successful short films. Student Incharge: Fadilah Asima

www.queenmira.com 15 SIXTH SENSE

JOIN HANDS TO UNWRAP OUR PLASTIC WORLD!

It is a rare occasion that we don’t • Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) - Used • South Asian countries account encounter plastic in the current in toys, medical tubing and for 80-90 percent of plastic waste scenario. Over the years, we have construction-based tubes that is not managed scientifically become so used to the permeation • Polystyrene (PS) – Used in the • Global trend projections indicate of plastic in every walk of our form of food containers, egg that by 2025, a high share of life, so much so that it is now containers, bike helmet. world’s ocean plastic pollution will subconscious. We start our day have its main origin from Asian with plastic in the form of tooth • Polycarbonate (PC) – Used in countries brushes, toothpaste tubes, soap baby bottles, dental sealants, boxes, containers in the kitchen, ketchup containers Plastic Hazards: polyethene bags in our wardrobe • Polyurethane (PU) – Used for Plastic is used only once room and so on and so forth, the carpentry underlay, automotive however lasts forever as it is not list goes on. interiors and for other biodegradable. Plastic is hazardous When we listen to people saying – cushioning furniture. in many ways. Let us see one by ‘No to plastic’ have you ever given a one: Plastic is hazardous to human and thought why should we say no? We the environment as well, it affects • Poses many health hazards due all know it is too late to realize that all species in this world who are to the toxic nature and can be plastic is hazardous, but, never too dependent on the environment. found in tissue blood and has late to stand up against using it. Let Plastic becomes hazardous when been linked to occurrence of us first understand different types the chemical ingredients are more cancer, birth defects, impaired of plastic and their nature of being than 50% of the plastic. World immunity and many other hazardous to our human lives. statistics evinces the following facts: ailments Plastics may be – • Packaging sector is the dominant • Affects the ground water • Polyethylene Terephthalate generator of plastic waste, • Attracts other pollutants and (PET) – Used in the form of responsible for almost half of the accumulates plastic debris. packaged water bottles global total. • Our food chain is poisoned due • Biodegradable Plastics, • Construction industry is to plastic polyethylene (PE) – Used as the second largest for plastic juice containers, grocery and production. • Plastics costs more to abate shampoo containers. • Europe, North America, • Emits toxic gases Dioxins, • Polypropylene (PP) –Used as Australia, Japan are few countries Furans, Mercury and thermal vests, disposable diapers which have effective waste Polychlorinated Biphenyls into as linings management infrastructure the atmosphere.

16 YAGNA | January 2020 • Burning plastics liberates • Ireland passed a plastic bag tax hazardous halogens and way back in 2002 becomes an air pollutant and • China instated a law in 2008 impacts on climatic changes. making it illegal to use plastic in • When plastic becomes an air stores and day to day life pollutant it affects human • UN Environment’s New Plastics respiratory systems. Economy Global Commitment Solutions to Reduce Plastic use and • Many European countries have consequently waste: introduced levy on plastic bags Every change starts from within, Technology Driven Solution to likewise each of us must start from Ban Plastic: our home, then institutions and then governments worldwide to There is hardly an arena in which bring about real change. technology cannot enter into, so is it with the Plastic Ban as well. First, how do we go about ‘No plastic at home’? Let’s see a few • In India, Banyan Nation has common tips, to start with: Third, Understanding the facts pioneered in developing a technology that can convert the • Choose thermos instead of of Banning plastic at National / hazardous plastic into recycled plastics for coffee or tea cups International levels: plastics which is termed as better • Use wooden tooth brushes • Analysing about the sources of plastics. waste generation (around 56 • Pick jute / cloth bags to replace lakh tonnes of plastic waste) • Perpetual has developed a plastic bags while shopping annually cost-effective method that alters PET bottles into high quality • Avoid using synthetic material • What is India’s contribution to sustainable bottles. for clothing plastic dumping into the Oceans • Loop industries has developed • Educate other family members - indicative trends point to almost 60% high-quality plastic resin which Second, how to stop using plastics uses catalyst that separates PET in society? Here we go with a few • Benchmark this data with other into individual monomers that ideas: countries results in virgin-quality PET plastics that are not hazardous. • At a classroom or school level • Analyse why Plastic ban is ‘Say no to Plastic team’ or start ineffective in India compared To wrap it up, plastic has eased a No to Plastic Campaign at the to other higher-income based and travelled a long journey in the Institution Level. countries human life and into each of our lives. It is high time, and, if we do • Train students to Identify Adopt successful measures from not take adequate steps to reduce items which are less or more other countries do to eradicate the the use of plastic we can face hazardous items as compared to plastic waste in near future. Few disaster by 2025. The quicker we Plastic. instances to quote may be as follows: wake up, the better we would see a • Organize projects on recycling • Like how France has passed a ‘Plastic Free’ future. plastic waste and popularize ‘Plastic Ban’ law for public ‘Do not get carried away by them • Rwanda an African country plastic anymore’! • Update yourself with PAN India’s has launched a radical policy Beat Plastic Pollution initiatives banning plastic taken • Sweden adopts more than “no • Spread the word about hazards plastic” to plastic recycling ideas Teacher Incharge: Ms.Kundhavai Santharam of plastic country-wide; Student Incharge: Rijutha.S

www.queenmira.com 17 CAREER CHOICES

• Princeton University • Cornell University • Yale University • University of Pennsylvania • Dartmouth College • Brown University The term ‘IVY League “commonly refers to a group The most valued International of the above 8 colleges and Universities renowned for providing excellent education and their significant Universities are in the U.S. history. They are highly selective, with acceptance rates often under 10% . They are also very expensive The USA has a special appeal and has always been to attend with only tuition fees averaging $35,000 a drawing talented students like a magnet. Studying year. abroad will allow for invaluable academic, professional and personal growth and open up an infinite number Courses which are most popular in U.S.A are of career options after graduation. Business, Economics, Engineering Psychology and Computer Science . Some students also aspire to Fifty percent of the World’s top 50 Universities are pursue Medicine and Law programs in the U.S. located in the U.S.due to small class sizes , highly accredited professors and advanced technology and U.S Universities Selection Process: research capabilities Like student has a personality , a University also has Completing a degree from one of the World’s best a personality with theirs to see whether they can higher – education systems will distinguish you from fit in or can bring new experiences on the campus. your peers with similar backgrounds and career Universities consider the various factors . The highly experiences. selective Universities accepting fewer applicants would have students with higher academic and test “Ivy League Colleges” institutions are considered the scores and would give weightage to other unique best colleges in U.S. aspects that students would have. • Harvard University On the other hand , the less selective Universities • Columbia University would focus more on academics . So if the students

18 YAGNA | January 2020 meet the academic requirements they are more likely to get an admission. INTERNATIONAL DIMENSION Culture shock in the USA DEMOCRATIC POLICIES GCC committee planned an activity on the topic America has always welcomed a multicultural “Various Democratic policies across the world” environment . Although you come across a bit of a for students was conducted to create awareness. cultural shock at the beginning, you will soon adapt Students were asked to prepare a research paper to any American town or big city. The U.S. is a unique about democratic policies of USA, UK, China, Syria, place but you will still find less neighbourhoods. This Iran, Russia, and France. A session was conducted will help you feel closer to home. On the bright side, by Ms. Shanthakumari on Indian democratic U.S. Universities support cultural diversity and in the policies for grade 9 students. Democratic policies are aspect, organize various social and cultural activities. needed in order to save the country from chaos and Here we have here one of the scholarship providers anarchy. Each and every individual should be in the for your information. position to know and understand the policies that are implemented in favour of them. It is the responsibility of the individual to abide by the rules and regulations framed by the government.A debate was organised by Ms. Santhakumari for Grade 9 students on Democratic Policies in India, Nepal, Srilanka, Bhutan and Bangladesh.

UNITED STATES-INDIA EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION

Study in the U.S. USIEF’s EducationUSA Advising Services (EAS) provide accurate, comprehensive and current information to students who are interested in pursuing ORGANIC HERBS higher education and scholarships in the U.S. They ISA activity on Organic herbs was contemplated to do not endorse or rank any college or university further knowledge acquisition regarding different but guide students in their pursuit of a U.S. degree. herbs available and their uses to cure different Specialized seminars and workshops on admission ailments. Students of Grade 8 were made to undergo a application procedures and strategies, education fairs scrap book activity to compile different types of herbs and pre-departure orientation programs are held all and submit it. As part of this activity, students made a the year round. USIEF advising centers are located PowerPoint presentation to explain the same to fellow at New Delhi, Chennai, Hyderabad, Kolkata, and students and inculcate the importance of medicinal Mumbai. benefits of herbs. Seminars delivered by students were informative and effective. An external resource, Mr. USIEF centers administer the following tests at Shenbagaraj, Proprietor of Shen’s farm was also invited their respective locations: to elucidate the importance of organic farming and New Delhi: SAT I, SAT II, ACT, PSAT and AP Exams demonstrate the harmful effects of chemical pesticides Mumbai: PSAT and AP Exams to students. It was a power packed session, where he Kolkata: SAT I, SAT II. AP Exams and PSAT expressed his thoughts and passion about organic Chennai: SAT I, SAT II and PSAT farming. He conducted the session as a group activity Hyderabad: PSAT Test and finally culminated in a quiz, where students actively participated and demonstrated the knowledge gained about different herbs.

Teacher Incharge: Ms.Kalpana Karthick Teacher Incharge: Ms.Ramalakshmi & Susikal.A Student Incharge: Jeevana Rose.M.J Student Incharge: Dharani

www.queenmira.com 19 PATH - THE NAVIGATOR

The Career Guidance Wing of QMIS had arranged students choose courses and get placed across the for an exclusive THE PATH session on 19/10/2019 globe in various fields. He broadly explained about – Saturday by inviting Educational Consultant Medical and Engineering streams. Feedback session Mr. Nedunchezhian from Technocrat India with the student council was a limelight because College Finder (TICF). This exclusive session was each presenter felt the absence of the parents. All systematized for the benefit of the Students and is well that ends well. The day long career guidance Parents of Grades 9 to 12. The Prime Minister of the programme wound with a Vote of Thanks proposed school Parliament, Master Guhan Kaalai of Grade by the Deputy Prime Minister – Master Thirupathi XI welcomed the gathering. The Lamp Lighting of Grade XI. The children dispersed with a note of Ceremony was presided by our Charismatic gratitude to the management. Chairman Dr. C. Chandran and the Guest of the day Mr. Nedunchezhian. Followed by them were the cŸSt bjšyh« ca®îŸsš k‰wJ members of the Senior Leadership Team of QMIS jŸËD« jŸshik Ú®¤J – Mr. Abinath Chandran – Managing Director, - FwŸ 596 Ms. Sujatha Guptan – Director Academics & Ms. v©z§fŸ ca®thdjhf ïU¡f£L« mit Josephine Anne Sheebha – Joint Director – Admin. Ãiwntwhkš nghdhY« kd« nrh®tila TlhJ. In line to the SLT were Ms. Christinal Shanthi – Principal of Senior School & Ms. Ezhil Roja – The AVP of Senior School. Ms. Sujatha Guptan shared the Path Traversed by the 2018 –’19 passed out QMISians. Mr. Nedunchezhians session started with a brain storming to assess knowledge level of the audience and their expectations. After the break, he briefed the gathering with science stream courses that were available in the fields of research, science and agriculture and food technology. He clearly highlighted that ‘Institution’ plays a vital role even before selection of any course. Mr. Rajesh briefed the gathering on the commerce stream As in above mentioned thirukkural, The Career courses offered. Mr. Nedunchezhian kept the Guidance Wing of QMIS had arranged for an gathering informed with tips on how to prepare exclusive “THE PATH SESSION-2” on 23/11/2019 for board exams and for all entrance exams. – Saturday by inviting leading Career Consultant He engaged the students with clear data of how and Analyst, Mr. Jayaprakash.A.Gandhi. This

20 YAGNA | January 2020 exclusive session was organized for the benefit of the students and parents of Grades 9 to 12. The day began with Tamil ThaaiVaazhthu. Master Feroze Alam of Grade 10 welcomed the gathering. Mr.Bharath, Manager – Admin delivered a motivational speech to the parents, students and teachers on how the parents and teachers should support hand in hand for the development of the students. Ms. Sujatha Guptan, Director – Academics, shared the importance of career guidance. She appreciated parent as well as the student community for a predominant increase in humanities for students of grades 8 to 12. He also the participation rates. Mr.J.P Gandhi initiated the presented a detailed session on various academic session with an array of brain storming questions and non-academic scholarships available in India not only to understand the preknowledge of the as other countries like US, UK and Canada. He audience and about their expectations but also to emphasized the students to check for scholarships, captivate the attention of the listeners. The resource their dues dates to apply and to explore different person reiterated to the crowd on being specific in links related to the scholarships. Students also the choice of subjects and studies that would cater the gained knowledge on the step by step preparation needs of the students. Mr. J.P Gandhi shared about of important documents that are needed for the the importance of Mathematics for a successful process of application to study abroad like statement choice of career and he also said the students to of purpose, essay writing on the given topic and he give away the phobia towards the same. He was made them to understand the way how a statement emphatic that students develop various skills and of purpose has to be devised by interesting real life motivated them to appear and crash competitive illustrations and case studies. Mr. Rama Krishna exams successfully. He reminded the listeners to quoted examples for drafting an essay or a story and get updated about new educational policy. Mr. JP also made few students to present their own essay Gandhi kept the gathering informed with his tips on on a given topic in their own and unique way. The how to prepare for board exams and for all entrance students interacted with the facilitator and got their exams. He shared the pattern of 2020 NEET exam queries clarified spontaneously. He was admired by to the students. He engaged the students with clear two of our students in Grades 9 and 12 by the way cut data of how students should be proactive in they have chosen their career and focus towards choosing courses and get placed across the globe in a career of their choice with passion. Overall, the various fields. All is well that ends well. The career session was a revelation for students and a source of guidance programme got wrapped up with the motivation to renew their passion towards chosen Vote of Thanks proposed by Ms.Alvina Philomin careers. of Grade 10. The children dispersed with a note of The resource person also gave a brief explanation gratitude to the management. to the parents of Graders 8 to 12 on the nuances of building a CV and the list of academic and non academic skills that are expected by the universities Univariety Career session or colleges during the admission processes. Parents and CV building workshop were highly satisfied with the content he presented and they clearly understood the importance of the “The Choices we make determine our future.” parents’ guidance in their child’s career choice. A career guidance session was conducted on 14.10.19 and 15.10.19 by Mr. Rama Krishna Boddu, Teacher Incharges: facilitator from Univariety. The resource person Ms.Parasakthi & Ms.Charanya Jeyakumar discussed about various upcoming career options Student Incharge: in various fields like medicine, engineering and Mahaveera Vishal.S

www.queenmira.com 21 GAITIES & CELEBRITIES

NAVRATHRI CELEBRATIONS Navratri comes from the Sanskrit words Nava (meaning nine) and ratri (night). This nine night festival was observed at QMIS Premises in a grand manner as usual with prayer on all nine days to Goddess Durga to bestow upon our team in all her nine forms of blessings Fame, Name, Wealth, Prosperity, Happiness, Education, Health, Power And Commitment. The festive season started commenced on 28th September and ended with Akshara Abhyasam on 9th October. The golu was set in a halcyon way with 7steps. The team had a separate demarcation for Kailash Mountain with the concept of “Thiruvilaiyadal”. Saibaba was given a special throne with sovereignty. TEACHERS DAY We also had a meadow with “Krishna leelaigal & “It is the supreme art of the teacher to awaken joy in Karthigai Pengal. We also depicted the concept of creative expression and knowledge.” endangered species and importance of farming. QMIS celebrated Teachers’ day with great gusto and We hosted our parents with entrancingly blessed gaiety on 14th, September 2019. Students performed invitations on 30th of September, 3rd and 4th of a cultural show to express their love, respect and October. Children entertained our parents through recognition for the hard work put in by their teachers with devotional songs, instrumental rhythms and towards their development. Ms.Sujatha, Director dances to showcase various art forms in the arena. Academics welcomed the gathering and spoke about how a teacher plays an important role in the life of a All the nine days, our school was incensed and student to become successful in his/her career and to revebrated holy vibes. This holy vibration of our be a good human being in the society. Mr.Abinath, ambience ended up with Akshara Abhyasam on 9th Managing Director spoke about passion, a teacher October. Newly admitted children as well as our should hold towards their profession. “To the world existing children had an opportunity for a dawn of you may be a teacher but to your students you are new possibilities and beginning their education in a star.” The students had organized a number of fun an auspicious way. Navrathri came to an end with a games for the teachers which were thoroughly enjoyed fervent prayer that Goddess Durga exists eternally, and appreciated. It was a joyous occasion for every always in our campus abiding in her own sweet teacher. The teachers then witnessed children’s talent nature, inhabiting the hearts and minds of her perfect being showcased with elegance. The main objective of devotees. the celebration was to express gratitude to the teachers and how much they are loved and respected for their service. The faculty members were overwhelmed by the efforts and love shown by the students. The overall event was organised by the Internal Affairs Minister Akash Nagu Subramanian of Grade 9 along with the School Parliament members and Grade 11 volunteers. Teachers were given a sapling as memento as a part of “Green Earth”. “Teachers who love teaching teach the students to love learning.”

22 YAGNA | January 2020 CHILDREN’S DAY CELEBRATION regular E+ sessions. The most awaited E+ fair unfurled its presence on 8th of November, 2019 in the August presence of Mr. Veluthambi, former HOD of the Biology department at Madurai Kamaraj University. There was a variety of exhibits under different domains which included Linguistics, Numeracy, Aptitude and Fine Motor Activities. There was a competition between the Linguistics Team with that of the Numeracy Team. The exhibits included thematic story narration, all about fruits & Nuts, Idioms & Phrases to add more to our creativity, Stories that “The greatest gift you can give your children caters SD Goals, Vocabulary fun, Pascal’s Triangle, are the roots of responsibility and the wings of Integers, Easy Mathematical tricks, Tower of Brahma, independence.” Napier Bones Multiplication Tricks, students’ art exhibits, Fashion Parade, etc. The limelight of the fair Children’s Day - A day marking childhood focusses was the Parents versus Student Debate, which clearly on children and their enjoyment. At QMIS, the showcased the analytical thinking & public speaking Children’s Day was celebrated with the theme skills of the students. The presence of the parents on a “Cherishing Childhood”. The PE Team with the weekday clearly showed us the positivity towards the support of Ms. Anita Rajesh & Ms. Shalini Pandian school and their confidence in the implementation organized the event. The day began with distribution of the new initiative which the E+ Sessions. The of handmade mementos gifted by the teachers. management, teachers and students carried home the This was amply evident from the love and affection positive vibes completely attributable to the success the teachers had towards their students. A week of E+ Fair. before the Children’s Day, an array of inter house competitions were organized. On Children’s day, the teachers entertained and brought out the spark on THE LITTLE EMPERORS – SEASON 5 the faces of each student through their astounding performance. The students dispersed with pleasant and happy memories.

EINSTEIN+ FAIR

“You’re braver than you believe, and stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think.” – Christopher Robin. To bring out the blossoming talents of the kindergartners, Queen Mira International School “Show Me I Will Remember, and Involve Me I Will organized an exclusive “The Little Emperors – The Learn” - Benjamin Franklin Innovative Rulers”, an interschool event for budding toddlers from in and around Madurai district. The + In futherance to the above mentioned quote, Einstein QMIS’ TLE Season 1 took its inception in the year fair was organized at our campus for graders 3 till 8, 2015 with 54 schools. With the momentous support on 8th of November, 2019. The foremost objective from the yester years’ contestants QMIS successfully of organizing such a fair was to increase parents hosted “The Little Emperors – Season 5” with the awareness of the enormous experiential learning and theme “Go Green”. hands on experimentation happening during the

www.queenmira.com 23 DIWALI CELEBRATION “Fortunate is the one who has learned to Admire. Good wishes for a joyous Diwali with plenty of peace and prosperity.” The celebration of Diwali, the festival of lights, came alive at “Queen Mira International School” on 25.10.2019. The students wore colorful dresses and distributed sweets to their friends, teachers and support staff. The whole school was celebrating this festive occasion by distributing sweets and bursting crackers. In order to enlighten the knowledge about our culture, a PPT presentation on ‘Diwali’ was presented by our Tamil department. Instructions on safe and secured bursting of crackers were given by our P.E department to make our students to get educated about safe bursting of crackers. In order to strengthen the bond between the teachers and the students, a friendly throw ball match between the Grade 10 girls and the female faculty members and cricket match between the Grade 10 boys and the male faculty members were organized. The students On the dawn of November 16, 2019 QMIS was decked and the teachers participated enthusiastically and it up in celebratory manner and the campus was lirented was undoubtedly an icebreaker for the students who with the tiny tots in the guise of Green Warriors, played happily out of their mundane. This Diwali that Plant Protectors & Earth Rescuers – the theme based was celebrated in our school, removed the disparities, appellations given for Pre Kindergartners, KG 1 & KG and made the students to feel that they are united. 2 respectively. The entire day was overwhelmed with happiness. Each and every one was looking forward with excitement and eagerness to celebrate the bliss of success and achievement. The valedictory ceremony kicked off in the presence of our honourable Chairman Dr. C. Chandran, Managing Director Mr. Abinath Chandran and the Director – Academics Ms. Sujatha Guptan. Every participant was appreciated and the winners were honored with medals, certificates and trophies for their zest. The overall first place was bagged by Velammal Matriculation Higher Secondary School, Thirupuvanam and was rewarded with a cash prize of Rs. 25,000, Velammal Matriculation school, Theni acquired the coveted second place with Rs.15,000 cash award, Velammal Bodhi Campus, Theni & AB IQRA International School shared the third position with Rs.10,000 cash prize and the fourth place was given to Aachi International School, Usilampatti. The magnanimous event came to an end with the heartfelt gratitude & appreciation extended by TLE Team for the success of The Little Emperors – Season 5. It was in no doubt that both the winners & the contestants dispersed with a sense of fulfillment Teacher Incharges: Ms.Jennifer Ruth, Ms.Nandhini and carried home cherishable memories. Student Incharge: Lisa Arul

24 YAGNA | January 2020 AMAZING FACTS

FRESH THOUGHTS

“To be Fantastic, Don’t litter with Plastic” BIODEGRADABLE PLASTIC Plastic in any form or quality is harmful to health. FROM LOBSTER SHELLS Plastic lurks in every nook and corner of our lives, In this time and age, plastic has become a menace banishing it completely seems unrealistic and that threatens the very existence of humans and all impractical. The increase in quantum of solid waste other life forms. To counter this and to find suitable that changes the lifestyles and socio-economic alternatives, many have put their heads together and conditions is directly proportional to the increase of come up with many different and varied solutions. population. As per a Central Pollution Control Board This article talks about one such attempt by the report, plastic waste accounts for 56 lakh tons or about students of Royal College of Art and Imperial College. 9% of the total waste (62 million tons) India generates every year. While countries like France, Sweden have They have developed a method that turns lobster shells brought in strict laws banning all kinds of plastic into biodegradable and recyclable plastic. This project usage and Kenya is imposing world’s toughest law is called “SHELLWORKS” and it transforms the hard (imprisonment of up to four years or a fine of Rs. 25 outer shell of lobsters into a paper-like material. The lakh for purchasing, selling or using plastic bags). It material consists of a mixture of vinegar and chitin. may take time for our laws to get in place, but till then This chitin is nothing but a fibrous substance that it is our responsibility to reduce plastic addiction, and makes up the exoskeleton of the crustaceans. But the it doesn’t imply cutting convenience, it just means commercial version of chitin is so expensive and its extraction process was also very time consuming. making conscious alternatives choices rather than plastic. Hence they invented five manufacturing machines called Shelly, Sheety, Vaccy, Dippy, and Drippy. Shelly M. Faazelah XI – A is a small-scale extractor that draws out the chitin from the shells. Sheety transforms the Bio plastic solution Beware of Plastics into a flat sheet. Vaccy is steam heated vaccum former, Plastic is made from Nonrenewable resources. which transforms the sheets into any required shape. Plastic pollutes our land and water. Drippy is a heated dip moulder that forms 3D vessels Plastic is harmful to human health. like cups and containers. Plastic is cheap to buy and costly to clean up. The material is so versatile that it can be turned into Plastic is not easy to recycle. a material with different properties by changing the It takes thousand years to decompose into smaller ratio of the base ingredients. Through this they can pieces, which seep down into the soil and release control the stiffness, flexibility, thickness and optical chemicals, which reach the water supply clarity of the material. This material is infinitely Kills animals in the water when they eat plastic bags recyclable because even though it dries up, it could thinking they are jelly fish. be changed back to its original bioplastic solution The Manufacturing process uses toxic chemicals, by using the Drippy hydro-recycler machine. The pollutes the atmosphere and consumes energy. liquid form could be poured into the soil without any Rida 6-B concern because it is a natural, non-polluting fertiliser. Teacher Incharge: Teacher Incharge: Ms. Uma Maheshwari Ms. Lawanya Jeyakumar & Ms.Gomathi.U Student Incharge: Sai Naga Abirami Student Incharge: Sowmya

www.queenmira.com 25 QUASAR KIDS (KINDERGARTEN)

OLD AGE HOME CONSUMER DAY ‘FAMILY N FUN’

“To care for those who cared for us is one of the highest honours and On 28th September, QMIS campus caring of our seniors is perhaps the was energized with positive vibes A day ‘Family N Fun’ at QMIS – greatest responsibility we have” because of our Kindergarteners and KG Department was scheduled This is something which wetheir roles as vendors in Q’s market exclusively for KG parents on realized when we visited an old and the related conversations with 19.10.2019 (Saturday) to enjoy age home,” Shelter of Elders” at their parents as consumers. the morning session with their Sellur with students of QMIS-KG The day at QMIS was named as children in a unique manner. department on 02.11.19,Saturday. Consumers’ Day and the venue was With the Welcome card and drink, The inmates were very hospitable loaded with flowers, vegetables, they were welcomed and the KG and friendly and they welcomed groceries, fruits, stationeries, team took half of the parents to us with their beautiful smiles. To herbal cosmetics and snacks. various venues and made them to break the monotony of their lives, Additionally there were soothing participate in Flower carpet and children presented few songs soups, refreshing nanari sarbath, Flameless cooking contests. The and stories. The children then and farm fresh tender coconut. rest were given a chance to enjoy presented the residents, whom KG children took up this project Edusports with their children. they addressed as Thatha, Paati to undergo hands-on-experience The other contests were related with sweets, sarees, sweaters & of a real market and the related to challenging their intelligence bedspreads etc. Mr.Raja, who runs concepts of buying, selling, billing, and understanding of their wards the home, was overwhelmed and bargaining, budgeting and money collaboratively. Overall, the parents said that the children had come management under the ablest had a gala and fun time with their with lot of preparation, enthusiasm guidance of Grade 11 commerce children for 3 hours. The unity of and with good intentions. Though students and their mentors. It was the family was highly evident in all we spent only an hour with them, a collaborative learning for KG the activities. they made us realize the value children and Grade 11 children. On The event concluded with the of our grandparents and the the whole, the children departed announcement of the winners. As tenderness with which we need for home with their parents with it is rightly said “Memories are to take care of them. The children handful of market concepts in a timeless treasures of the heart”. realized that love for their family, matured way. particularly their grandparents has grown stronger and deeper. They also gifted us a rose plant as Teacher Incharges: their token of love and gesture of Ms.Priyadharshni gratitude. Ms.Jagadeeswari Student Incharge: Anbuselvam.S.M.C

26 YAGNA | January 2020 TRAILBLAZER (GRADES 1 & 2)

VISIT TO AN OLD HOME We came back to school and children spent a moment to thank God to count their blessings. “A Society that does not value its older people denies its roots and endangers its future.” – Nelson Mandela We can’t run the society on data and computers alone. Keeping this thought for society in our mind, we arranged a trip to an old age home for grade 1 children on 13.09.19 (Friday). We started to educate our children on the importance of taking care of the elderly people. We were keen in our point that children should extend their respect, love and support to elderly people. It was a great initiative taken by our school to take our children for a fieldtrip SLUMBER BASH like this. Though we spent only few hours with The most interesting activity “Slumber Bash” for the them, they made the children to realize the value of children of Grade 2 was organized on 19th October grandparents. 2019 in premises. It embarked with so much of excitement and expectations. It was kicked off by receiving them with a welcome card and drink .As a beginning, the evening engaged the children in Edusports and games. After this warm up activity they rested physically at the courtyard for a moontlight “Angry Bird 2 “with handful of popcorn in a theatre ambience. Later they were taken to Q’s cafeteria to relish on a moon light banquet. The children enjoyed the combo of chappathi, paneer gravy, curd and onion salad with kurma. Post dinner, the children’s most awaited “Camp Fire” was a hit and brought much happiness they enjoyed choco coated banana VISIT TO A DESTITUTE and choco milk and brushed teeth and proceeded for Prayer. The next day they woke up to welcome the “All Super Heroes are differently abled guest “SUN “ and began the day with the light jog and All differently abled are Super Heroes” posed for a group photo . They relished the breakfast To see how such superheroes are learning, we took and moved off to their homes. The children on the Grade 2 children for a differently abled School. whole, learnt good values of independent living, sharing and adapting to any kind of situation. The children were exposed to the “Audio & Braille Library used by visually challenged people. The library was piled up with books with Braille method, which can be read with the fingers by people who are visually challenged. Our children touched the system of raised dots and felt the letters which was not legible for them to comprehend. The teachers and children were very emotional. It was a touching moment to see children expressing their love. They held their friends hand and guided them on the path. Our Children were amazed to see their level of confidence and friendship. Teacher Incharges: Ms.Kayalvizhi & Ms.Aruna Rajkumar

www.queenmira.com 27 TRAVELOGUE

EXPEDITION TO CHIKMAGALUR Momullayanagiri hills (highest peak), the cool and fresh climate there made us to admire beauty and “Travel is all about the experiences, not the enjoy a lot. destination” The buttermilk waterfall is one of the nice waterfalls We are glad to share our memorable experience with a natural water pool nearby. Kids enjoyed the about the coffee land journey which we had water pool since it was not too deep. We travelled planned after a very long time. Yes, it’s none other across dense forest by local transport, that journey than our expedition to Chikmagalur, a hill station really added up to the flavour of adventure. Hurray! in Karnataka, a state in Southwest India which It’s on mud wave travel which once again made us produces 75% of coffee in India. more happy and excited. We were heavy hearted to The best time to visit Chikmagalur is from leave the paradise on earth; it was worth the spirit of September to March.The city is best known as joy and elation. the coffee land of Karnataka and is situated at the “Journeys aren’t remembered for mileage but they foothills of the Mullayanagiri Range. It experiences are remembered for the joyous moments” summer, winter and monsoon, without missing the right chance, we finally executed our long planned trip. We reached the city at noon. When we planned to take a halt for an hour, a passenger shared the idea of spending the pleasant evening with a visit to Hirekolale Lake and Mahatma Gandhi Park. That destination gave an awesome feeding to mind and heart. When we travelled to Hirekolale Lake, we were able to see lengthy silvertime oak trees with coffee plantations. Kids loved walking around and made a gentle hop here and there on both the places expressing their joy. It was overall a joyful and remarkable evening spent with family. P/O K.Neeraj, KG 1-B We had a pleasant and cool night stay. Next Teacher Incharges: Ms.Anitha Thiliban & Ms.Lilly Jeone day the journey started with scenic beauty of Student Incharge: Ibrahim Shakir Syed

28 YAGNA | January 2020 CONNEXIONS COLUMN

Teacher Incharge: Mr.Ajithkumar

www.queenmira.com 29 LEARNER’S COLUMN

The Hindu STEP – Classroom Pre - workshop “An investment in knowledge pays the best interest.” The best teacher is one who has that ability of express his/ her thoughts without flaws any. To make the teachers confident with carrying about with an effective classroom proceeding, the teaching team was given an opportunity to do an online course ‘STEP’ from Hindu Group. To make the teachers aware of the course a workshop was organised for the teaching fraternity to get an insight about the same. “Plastics – the greatest threat to environment”. Are we a Conserver? Or a Destructor? Plastic – The Menace - Article by Aysha Feroze Whenever, I see the roads littered largely with Plastics, the instantaneous thought that provokes my conscience is “Are we given that liberty to destroy Earth? If so, then why do we take pride “Tell Me & I may forget, in referring ourselves as the inhabitants of Earth Teach Me & I May remember, when we directly or indirectly play a leading role in Involve Me & I will learn” destroying Mother Earth with our cruel act of using With this prime objective the teaching faculty of KG Plastics? When I decided myself to draft an article & Pre Primary attended an exclusive phonic session on this grave issue about the ill effects of plastics and led by Ms. Hilarie Balanchandran. The goal of phonics the ways its usage could be considerably reduced. instruction is to teach students the most common Plastic is widely used in our day to day life. Starting sound-spelling relationships so that they can decode, from a pen to a polythene bag in which we carry or sound out, words. ... These strategies include fruits and books are forms of plastic. Though suitable using a knowledge of sound-spelling relationships. in our day to day use, it has posed a frightening Phonics involves the relationship between sounds threat to the milieu. Though they are quite useful and written symbols, whereas phonemic awareness to human beings, but they are very dangerous involves sounds in spoken words. Therefore, for environment and animals. The National phonics instruction focuses on teaching sound- Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration spelling relationships and is associated with have confirmed plastic debris kills approximately print. Most phonemic awareness tasks are oral. 100,000 marine mammals every year, as well as The session was productive and made teachers millions of birds and fishes. under go indepth learning The need of the hour is to replace plastic with environmental friendly materials. All of us need to join our hands to fight this menace and preserve our beautiful environment. We must stop using plastic altogether. The governments of various nations, including our national Government have launched anti-plastic campaigns. We can make these campaigns by saying ‘NO TO PLASTIC’.

30 YAGNA | January 2020 Music and Movement The session started with our ebullient KG & Grade 1 and 2 team who were bubbling over with gusto because the session was about “Music and Movement” presented by Ms.Jainool Fathima , the Coordinator for Grades 1 & 2. Rhymes were recited in such a way that every teacher was actively involved. She also explained the concept of living together through this rhyme reciting activity. Through rhymes recitation teachers got to know that even in a single rhyme we can edify vocabularies, life skills, numerical skills and science concepts. She also educated the teachers some simple yet effective techniques to design a lively class. The session also broke the stereotype of teaching poem for level 1 and 2 which is not only about reciting but the need for a teacher to do groundwork related to the topics. Conducting these kinds of fun-filled games will enrich the memory, awareness, vocabulary and pronunciation. The session was an eye - opener for the teachers in which a package of magnanimous ideas and strategies were handed over to induce our little sprout’s skills and abilities.

Session on 5S The QMIS members had been allotted with new roles A Session with Dr. Sudha and a meeting was held clarifying each and every Govindswamy – the CIS consultant member’s hierarchy of reporting and schedules. of the school Post that a need to emphasize on the importance of delegation was felt and hence a session on how Dr. Sudha Govuindswamy, the CIS Consultant of delegation can be done in an effective manner was the school conducted a two days workshop on the conducted. Those key members who have been importance & initiation of STEAM Education into assigned new role were given a thought about the curriculum. delegating down their respective line. The points STEAM Education is an approach to learning that discussed were : uses Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and – Delegation Ladder Mathematics as access points for guiding student – Dos & Don’ts of Delegation inquiry, dialogue, and critical thinking. Using – Principles of Delegation STEAM education results in students, who take – Process of Delegation thoughtful risks, engage in experiential learning, – Barriers of Delegation persist in problem-solving, embrace collaboration and work through the creative process. These are The participants of this session had gained a greater the innovators, educators, leaders, and learners insight on delegation. This session acted as an eye of the 21st century! We are at a point where it is opener to all the SLT and MLM team. not only possible, but imperative that we facilitate learning environments that are fluid, dynamic and relevant. STEAM removes limitations and replaces Teacher Incharge: Ms. Aysha Siddika Feroze them with wonder, critique, inquiry and innovation. Student Incharge: Prajith Selvaraj Sherbourn Issac.S

www.queenmira.com 31 AGARAM

TAMIL HINDI ïs» ïWF« be»Ê

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Teacher Incharges: Teacher Incharge: Ms.Shandhini Ms.Kasthuri Thilagam & Ms.Bhuvneshwari Student Incharge: Omisha.G

32 YAGNA | January 2020 JAPANESE FRENCH Pollution has become one of the major concerns in today’s world. Especially plastic pollution is a major issue which is damaging our environment rapidly. Waste plastic materials which are hard to dispose of contributes to plastic pollution on earth. It’s time to unite and fight against the pollution to save our Mother Earth. Here is an imaginary poem in French, where Mother Earth laments over the deterioration of the planet because of the plastic pollution. She advises mankind not to harm the environment and to protect all the resources on Earth through this poem. Mother Earth is addressing to mankind. The pride of Japan is in “omotenashi” or customer service is very important in their culture, which Poème sur la pollution has led them to overly use plastic wrapping for Ô homme ! C’est l’appel de votre mère, aesthetic purpose. Now they have understood the Alarmée par le détérioration de la planète, need in holding back on unnecessary accumulation A cause de la pollution plastique sur la terre. of plastics. Il est temps de réagir contre la pollution, dis The youth though have recognized and embraced donc « non » au plastique avec honnête. the concept of recycling and limited usage. Collection boxes are installed all over the country Cet univers est plein de sources naturelles, to promote recycling. The local schools have also Entouré par la mer et l’océan partout joined hands with the ‘green movement ‘ wherein Les grands forets et les arbres, qui le couvrent, activities are held for students to clean up the sont bien sûr un vrai atout. beaches and public areas. Ne nuisez pas à toutes ces ressources, car il n’y a Japan is obsessed with recycling laws for eg. Even pas de vie sans elles. a milk carton has to be rinsed and flattened for Ô homme ! En jetant les plastiques dans la mer, recycling. They boast that 86% of the 9 million Vous affectez la vie aquatique. tones of plastic generated is recycled and just 8% is Par mettre les déchets sur la terre, either burnt or sent to landfills. Vous tuez aussi les animaux. They have understood that more than indivuals taking action, businesses should help in eliminating Maintenant c’est le temps de se rendre compte plastics and move to environmentally friendly Que les ressources se mettent à épuiser. replacements. Prenez conscience de votre acte de négligence A small town in Kyoto, the old capital of Japan has Donc protégez l’environnement avec prudence. taken the first step and has banned 800 retailers from using plastics and is striving to be completely Conservez l’énergie et économisez les ressources, waste free by next year. En retenant la règle des 3R : Réduire, Réutiliser, Recycler. The old yet golden ways to package using plant Respectez la nature et prenez des mésures, products should be adapted to keep our planet Pour protéger la santé de la terre. from dying out. The sooner we realize the better.

Pavithra Jothi Jennifer Teacher Incharge: Ms.Sountharya P/O Riya Jasmine Student Incharge: Akash Nagu Subramaniam

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36 YAGNA | January 2020 www.queenmira.com 37 JUNIOR JOURNALIST Mr. Prashanth, Organic Farming

“Let’s switch over to organic Swathi: Good morning sir. Could Mr. Prashanth: Well, we didn’t farming and food which you tell us about yourself? exactly go and knock on everyone’s gives us a healthy and Mr. Prashanth: I have completed door. We got the people to come affluent life” my college studies and I have to us. We started to grow trees in small areas and then people got “Soon people realized that worked in places like Singapore, inspired by us and then I used to organic vegetables taste US and UK. get a minimum of 100 calls every just like their mom and Swathi: Then what inspired you to day saying that even they would grand moms cooking and it start organic farming sir? like to help. But we didn’t give was way healthier and safer everyone who called a tree sapling than using the ones with Mr. Prashanth: Basically, when because we would naturally know chemicals.” I came back to India, I was deeply disturbed by the amount who would take care of the tree. Mr. Prashanth is a man who of trash that was dumped into Soon the number of people who wanted to bring about a change in the water bodies and I wanted planted trees increased and then the society in terms of the people’s to do something about that. So I we were able to get Pothys to fund health and was actually successful gathered a group of students who us. With their financial support we in bringing about that change. He I knew and every week we used to were able to conduct small sessions was able to change the mindset clean the water bodies around our with groups of 15 students and got of the people from ‘organic area. We did this every Saturday them to help us. vegetables are expensive’ to and Sunday but every time we go Swathi: Then what inspired you to ‘organic vegetables are actually the to clean the area, we would always sell products sir? same price as the rest’. He didn’t find the same amount of trash create any kind of advertisement; being disposed there and then Mr. Prashanth: The success of it was the people who found out slowly the plan lost its importance. planting trees got us thinking about ‘pakirvu’ (his shop where he But we didn’t want to give up why not sell organic and fresh sells produce at the same market helping our earth and thus we products? At first, we had to break price). It was them who spread thought of growing trees instead. the myth that organic food is more the awareness. Thus it was a self- expensive than the ones that are spread good news. Swathi: How did you make this produced by using chemicals. successful sir?

38 YAGNA | January 2020 It was tough at first because we didn’t want to advertise, we wanted HEALTH AND SAFETY COMMITTEE people to come to us. And we didn’t start this business to earn Adolescence and Transport Safety money but to ensure good health Hygiene Evacuation Drill of the people. In the beginning, “Gender equality is more than a “One earnest worker can do more we hardly got any customers at the goal in itself. It is a precondition personal suggestion to prevent shop but then soon we had a huge accidents than a carload of safety crowd because when one person for meeting the challenge of signs” tells another and they tell others, reducing poverty, promoting the news spread like wildfire. Soon sustainable development and Keeping such great thoughts in people realized that food prepared building good governance.” mind we at QMIS organized a using organic vegetables made it mock drill for the transport safety tasty just like there grandmom or on 17.10.19 for all children and mom’s preparation in yester years staff in the campus. HSC team and it was way healthier and safer explained on how to react to a than the ones with chemicals. travel emergency situation. They Swathi: Sir, how do you manage to also conducted a demo session for keep out the insects from affecting the students to act smartly during the crops? the time of crisis. The students actively involved themselves in Mr. Prashanth: Instead of evacuation process of self and chemicals, we use natural insect extended their hand to their repellants which is a spray of chilly, friends from school transport. This garlic and ginger. There are two gave a great learning experience for types of insects: those that are The Health and safety committee the kids and made them equipped good for the soil and those that of QMIS decided to do more and for any such situation aren’t. This repellent keeps away beyond. Girls & boys of Grades the bad ones and retains the good 6 to 12 had a great afternoon on ones. 06.09.19 with Dr.Muthuselvi, Swathi: And, sir what do you have leading gynecologist cum to say about the use of plastics? professor, Madurai Medical Mr. Prashanth: The use of College who educated girls plastics has definitely increased on gender sensitivity and in the last 4 decades and they are Ms.Saraswathy from Lady Doak polluting our environment. They College educated the boys on the have been the root cause for soil same topic. erosion, water pollution etc. The Adolescence is the time for government has done a really puberty changes and growth good job by banning plastics and spurts. The teenage years bring a implementing the use of cotton whole lot of changes physically, bags or cloth bags instead of emotionally, mentally and socially. polythene bags. A platform was created for the Swathi: Thank you so much sir teens to raise queries and clear for spending your valuable time their ambiguities regarding the answering these questions. changes they were undergoing. It was a useful session that also gave Teacher Incharge: awareness on how to maintain Ms.Praveena Rajan hygiene. Student Incharge: Teacher Incharge: Ms.Jainool Fatima Muthu Swathi Lakshmi.M Student Incharge: Nakshatra.R.K

www.queenmira.com 39 SPORTS

PRASHANTI SINGH BECOMES She has also taken part and represented as captain in many international games, such as the 2006 THE FIRST BASKETBALL Commonwealth Games, in 2010 Asian Games PLAYER TO RECEIVE THE Guangzhou and in 2014 at 17th Asian Games Incheon. A large number of achievements are attached to the PRESTIGIOUS PADMA SHRI name of Prashanti Singh. She holds an evidence of AWARD. a maximum number of medals with 21 medals in National Championship Games. Source:http://hoopistani.blogspot.com/2019/01/ prashanti-singh-becomes-first.html The centre plaque in the trophy cabinet of the Singh sisters’ household in Varanasi has been left empty Prashanti hails from the holy city of Varanasi in Uttar despite their 25 years of participation in basketball Pradesh, where she began playing basketball when tourneys, local, national and international. she was 11years old. The journey similarly delivers Singh’s fights to be viewed as critical as Indian women All five sisters – Priyanka, Divya, Prashanti, Akansha picking sport against tradition and her bounce back and Pratima – have played basketball competitively. in the wake of being shockingly dropped by the For Prashanti, her Arjuna Award is the culmination national gathering selectors. of not just hers but all of their efforts. She is an amazingly talented player that our country Just when it seemed unlikely that her brilliant has ever produced. She has been awarded in the field career could be exalted even higher, former Indian of sports with the prestigious Rani Laxmi Bai Bravery basketball captain Prashanti Singh from Varanasi Award 2016-17 by Uttar Pradesh Government. In the has become the first basketball player in history to be year 2010 in May, she was shown in Elle Magazine, handed the Padma Shri award! The Padma Shri is the and she was the first Indian basketball player to fourth-highest civilian honour for Indian citizens and have ever featured by any magazine. The award of is handed annually on the Republic Day celebrations. Most Valuable Player of Mahindra NBA challenge Singh, a 34-year-old former shooting guard for National Final in New Delhi 2012 is also in the name India’s national team, is the most decorated women of Prashanti in which six thousand basketball players basketball player in India, holding the national had taken part from all over India. record for most number of medals (22) in national

40 YAGNA | January 2020 championships for Delhi while she was an employee Awards and Achievement for MTNL. She has represented the national team The President, Shri Ram Nath Kovind presented in the 2006 Commonwealth Games, the 2010 and the Padma Shri Award to Prashanti Singh, at an 2014 Asian Games, and six FIBA Asia Women’s Investiture Ceremony, at Rashtrapati Bhavan, in New Championships (2004, 2005, 2007, 2009, 2011, 2013), Delhi on March 16, 2019 plus one more at the junior level. • March 2019 : Padma Shri by Government of Prashanti Singh is among the star-studded “Singh India Sisters” of Varanasi, four of whom have represented India’s national team and brought home numerous • August 2017 : Arjuna Award by Government of international and domestic honours. India[11] Singh’s Padma Shri award is a pleasant surprise, • December 2016-17 : Rani Laxmi Bai Award especially considering that there have been several (Outstanding Sports Person) by Uttar Pradesh great basketball players throughout Indian history in Government both Men and Women’s divisions - including Khushi • December 2015-16 : Poorvanchal Ratna (Top Ram, Abbas Moontasir, Ajmer Singh, Geethu Anna Sports Person) Rahul, and many more who are still active - who have been deserving, but were never conferred this • October 2015 : Shakti Samman by APN News honour. • March 2015 : UP ke Sartaj titled by Radio Mirchi 98.3 FM. • January 2015 : National record with 23 medals for one team in senior level. • June 2013: Lokmat Samman (sportsperson of the year 2013) in Lucknow. • October 2012: MVP (most valuable player) of Mahindra NBA challenge National Final in New Delhi. • April 2011: Captained team West & won Best Player award in All Star Game in Mumbai. • February 2011: Top scorer award with 129 points (25.8 point/game) in prestigious 25th IMG- Reliance Federation Cup, Raipur • 2011: She is one of the first ever ranked Top Four A Grade elite Basketball player of India. • 2010: Elle Magazine - first Indian basketball player featured in the May 2010 edition • October 2006: Century Sports Award by Century Sports Club, Varanasi • August 2006: Outstanding Player Honour by UP College Old Students’ Association • December 2002: Best Player Award in UP State School Championship, held at Ghaziabad

Teacher Incharge: Mr.Murugan Student Incharge: Thirupathi.M

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