NEWSLETTER - AUGUST 2024

Dear Bodhian Family,

It fills me with immense pride to reflect on the success of our recent initiatives, which continue to showcase our collective efforts in shaping the global leaders of tomorrow. A special commendation goes to our student Council for their leadership and hospitality during Bodhi Fest 2024, ensuring our guests from 11 visiting schools felt welcomed and valued. The event truly reflected our mission to provide students with experiences that help them grow into confident, well-rounded individuals.

Our vision at Bodhi International School is to prepare students for the future by offering opportunities that develop essential skills—leadership, collaboration, and empathy—through meaningful exposure. This was beautifully demonstrated during the Independence Day celebrations, where we organized a Student and Parent Marathon, fostering a sense of unity within our community. Additionally, as part of our ongoing commitment to social responsibility, we proudly donated shoes and socks to students at the government school in the village we have adopted. Our students actively celebrated Raksha Bandhan and Janmashtami, embracing our rich cultural heritage, while also gaining valuable insights into International Indigenous Day and National Sports Day, broadening their understanding of both global and national significance.

I am deeply proud of our dedicated team, who manage both events and academics with unrelenting enthusiasm. A heartfelt thank you also goes to our supportive parents, whose trust and involvement continue to be a cornerstone of our success.

Together, let us continue striving for excellence, ensuring that every student's journey at Bodhi is filled with enriching experiences that prepare them for the future.

Warm regards,

Mrs. Nitu Bothra

Executive Director

The past month has been a rewarding journey of growth and learning for our school community. It was filled with enriching experiences that allowed us to explore new dimensions of excellence while maintaining our academic rigor. Each event, from the spirited IH Patriotic Song & Dance Competition to the grandeur of Bodhi Fest, was marked by meticulous planning and flawless execution.

Our campus thrived in an atmosphere of festivity, camaraderie, and healthy competition, where the enthusiasm and support from students and staff were truly commendable. Students stretched their limits, rising to the occasion and embodying the values of dedication, teamwork, and resilience.

At the core of our school’s culture is the belief in fostering a risk-taking attitude, encouraging our students to embrace challenges as opportunities for growth.

The virtue of teamwork is perhaps the greatest asset in today’s fast-paced world. It is through collaboration, shared responsibility, and mutual support that we build bridges to success. Together, we will continue this journey with a united vision, confident that every challenge we encounter will not deter us, but propel us forward, shaping us into a stronger, more resilient community.

Regards

Mrs. Rashi Rohatgi

Secondary School Principal

In the dynamic landscape of the 21st century, our role as educators extends beyond imparting knowledge; we are shaping individuals who will lead, innovate, and inspire in a world that is constantly changing. The core of our mission in the IB PYP is to cultivate critical thinkers, effective communicators, and adaptable problem solvers. These are not just skills to excel academically—they are life skills that empower students to engage with real-world challenges, whether through exploring literacy, collaborating on global issues, or delving into creative opportunities. As we navigate this ever-evolving terrain, it is essential that we foster the ability to think critically, question thoughtfully, and respond with compassion and confidence. Our students must be equipped to absorb information, create meaning, and lead change.

Through every inquiry, classroom discussion, and school event, we are embedding the pillars of 21st-century skills. Be it through literature that expands perspectives, or projects that challenge students to innovate, these experiences are shaping a generation that is both informed and reflective. As technology continues to reshape the world, we ensure our learners are at the forefront of this evolution—not just as technology users, but as thinkers and creators who can harness its potential responsibly. We stand on the cusp of an era where adaptability, creativity, and global citizenship are no longer aspirations but necessities, and our students are stepping into this future, ready to contribute with purpose, passion, and integrity.

Warm Regards,

Ms. Manya Jain

IB PYP Principal and PYP Corodinator

Dear Readers,

As we bid farewell to August, it’s time to celebrate the incredible achievements of our students. This month was truly remarkable, filled with moments of pride and joy. Here’s a look back at the highlights that made August unforgettable for Drona House:

Our athletes exhibited unmatched skill and determination throughout the week, truly setting the bar high. From the dynamic Football matches for Grades 6-8 to the intense Basketball tournaments for Grades 9-12, and from the graceful Skating performances to the competitive Swimming events, Drona House students excelled in every arena. Their outstanding achievements and exemplary sportsmanship not only secured us top positions across multiple events but also underscored our unwavering commitment to excellence. Each victory was a testament to their hard work and dedication, making us immensely proud and reinforcing our reputation for greatness in sports.

In the field of IT, Drona House has once again demonstrated its exceptional prowess. Our students' creative problem-solving and advanced technical skills earned us a distinguished 2nd position in the IH Cybernetics competition. Their unwavering commitment to technological excellence and their ability to innovate under pressure was truly remarkable. Their achievements not only highlight their talents but also underscore the strength and capability of our entire house in the realm of technology.

Our young dancers captivated everyone with their heartfelt performance of "Rang De Basanti." Their vibrant expression and enthusiasm earned them 1st place in the IH Dance Competition. It was a beautiful demonstration of their love for our country, and their hard work truly resonated in the courtyard.

Our talented vocalists mesmerized the audience in the singing arena with their rendition of "Mere Desh Ki Dharti." The harmony and emotion in their performance were nothing short of exquisite. Both the singing and dancing events highlighted the exceptional talents of our students and left us all in awe.

As we transition into the academic-heavy months ahead, let us carry forward the joy and pride from August. This month has been a celebration of talent, teamwork, and triumph, reminding us of the strength and spirit of Drona House.

With immense pride and joy,

Ms Neha Gehlot

The annual Literary & Cultural Fiesta- Bodhi Fest 2024, a two-day extravaganza, provided a thrilling experience for students of 11 participating schools. This event offered a bouquet of challenging and stimulating activities, spanning various domains such as literature, art & design, business, humanities, music, and dance.

Beyond the thrill of competing, this fest offered an opportunity to schools & students to create unforgettable memories and forge lifelong friendships. While collaborating with brilliant minds from other schools, the students had the chance to exchange ideas, learn from each other's experiences, and broaden their horizons.

In CBSE Grade 9, students embarked on a thoughtful exercise titled "Revise and Reflect," where they delved into five different poems, divided into groups of 4-5 students each. The session commenced with the teacher providing a quick recap of all five poems, setting the stage for an in-depth analysis. Each group then reflected on their assigned poem, exploring its themes, message, and poetic devices. This collaborative effort not only deepened their understanding of poetry but also enhanced their critical thinking and analytical skills.

CBSE Grade 11 students engaged in a "Revise and Reflect" activity, where they were divided into two groups of 4-5 members each. The session began with a brief recap of two poems by the teacher, setting a foundation for deeper exploration. Each group then analyzed their assigned poem, reflecting on its themes, message, and poetic devices. Through this exercise, students enhanced their understanding of the poems, sharpening their analytical and interpretative skills, while also fostering collaborative learning.

The session concluded with an engaging Q&A round, where both groups shared their insights and answered questions, reinforcing their understanding and fostering a deeper appreciation of poetry.

The students of CBSE 11 have been actively engaged in hands-on experiential learning in the biology lab, diving deep into the fascinating world of the animal kingdom. They have been studying the unique features that differentiate various animal groups, from mammals and reptiles to amphibians and arthropods.

Students have had the opportunity to observe live specimens and preserved samples, examining characteristics such as body structure, movement, and adaptation. Through a combination of microscopy, dissection, and interactive models, they have explored the diversity of life forms and gained a deeper understanding of the evolution and classification of animals.

Our young biologists have been especially excited about identifying different species and learning how various adaptations help them survive in their environments. This hands-on approach is not only enriching their understanding of biology but also fostering a sense of curiosity and wonder about the natural world.

Through these activities, our students are developing critical thinking skills, enhancing their scientific knowledge, and learning the importance of observation and analysis. We are proud of their enthusiasm and commitment to learning, and we look forward to seeing their continued growth in the exciting world of biology!

INTRODUCTION:

Wireless sensor networks (WSNs) refer to networks of spatially dispersed and dedicated sensors that monitor and record the physical conditions of the environment and forward the collected data to a central location. WSNs can measure environmental conditions such as temperature, sound, pollution levels, humidity and wind.

They rely on wireless connectivity and spontaneous formation of networks so that sensor data can be transported wirelessly. WSNs monitor physical conditions, such as temperature, sound, and pressure. Modern networks are bi-directional, both collecting data and enabling control of sensor activity. The development of these networks was motivated by military applications such as battlefield surveillance. Such networks are used in industrial and consumer applications, such as industrial process monitoring and control and machine health monitoring and agriculture.

History of WSN

Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs) began in the 1950s with military applications for detecting submarines. By the 1980s and 1990s, research projects like DARPA's Distributed Sensor Networks and advancements in electronics laid the groundwork for practical sensor networks. The late 1990s saw the emergence of modern WSNs with projects like UC Berkeley's Smart Dust, which aimed to create tiny, autonomous sensors. In the 2000s, WSNs expanded into commercial and industrial applications, aided by standardization efforts. Recently, WSNs have become integral to the Internet of Things (IoT), enabling advanced applications in smart cities, healthcare, and more.

WSN Architecture

The wireless sensor network architecture is built with nodes that are used to observe the surroundings like temperature, humidity, pressure, position, vibration, sound, etc. These nodes can be used in various real-time applications to perform various tasks like smart detecting, a discovery of neighbor nodes, data processing and storage, data collection, target tracking, monitor and controlling, synchronization, node localization, and effective routing between the base station and nodes.

Classification of WSN

There are 2 types of architecture used in WSN:

1. Layered Network Architecture

2. Clustered Architecture

1. Layered WSN Architecture

WSNs have a layer architecture with five layers:

● Application layer

● Transport layer

● Network layer

● Data link layer

● Physical layer

Benefits Of Layered Network Architecture:

Modularity:

● Simplifies design by breaking down functions into specific layers.

● Isolates issues within individual layers.

Flexibility and Scalability:

● Allows independent development and updates for each layer.

● Facilitates integration of new technologies.

Interoperability:

● Ensures compatibility through standardised protocols.

● Promotes cooperation between different devices and systems.

Reusability:

● Enables reuse of common functions across different applications.

● Supports reuse of entire layers in various projects.

Simplified Troubleshooting and Maintenance:

● Provides a clear structure for diagnosing and fixing issues.

● Allows layer-specific testing.

Enhanced Security:

● Implements security measures at multiple layers.

● Contains threats within specific layers.

Improved Network Management:

● Offers a hierarchical structure for easier management.

● Optimizes resource allocation for better performance.

Clustered Layered Architecture

Clustered architecture in a Wireless Sensor Network (WSN) organises the network to improve efficiency, scalability, and energy conservation. Here’s a simple explanation:

1. Clusters: The network is divided into small groups called clusters. Each cluster consists of several sensor nodes.

2. Cluster Head: Within each cluster, one node is designated as the cluster head. The cluster head is responsible for managing the cluster, including collecting data from other nodes, processing it, and sending it to a central base station or sink.

3. Member Nodes: The other nodes in the cluster are called member nodes. These nodes sense the environment and send their data to the cluster head.

4. Communication:

● Intra-Cluster Communication: Member nodes communicate with the cluster head. This reduces the communication range and energy consumption of individual nodes.

● Inter-Cluster Communication: Cluster heads communicate with the base station or sometimes with other cluster heads. This reduces the number of long-distance transmissions and helps conserve energy.

Benefits Of Clustered Architecture:

Energy Efficiency:

● Reduces long-distance transmissions by aggregating data at cluster heads.

● Conserves the battery life of sensor nodes.

Scalability:

● Makes it easier to manage large networks by dividing them into smaller clusters. ● Allows for the addition of more nodes without significant reconfiguration.

Data Aggregation:

● Reduces data transmission volume by processing and summarizing data at cluster heads. ● Minimizes redundancy and improves data accuracy.

Load Balancing:

● Distributes energy consumption evenly by rotating the cluster head role. ● Prevents any single node from being overburdened.

Improved Network Management:

● Simplifies network organization and control through hierarchical structure.

● Facilitates localized problem-solving within clusters.

Enhanced Reliability:

● Provides multiple paths for data transmission, increasing fault tolerance.

● Ensures continued network operation even if some nodes fail.

Reduced Latency:

● Decreases data transmission delays by limiting the distance data travels within clusters. ● Improves overall response time for data collection and processing.

Conclusion:

A sensor network consists of thousands to millions of sensors that are spread across a geographical area. Their limitless capabilities in various domains make it the backbone of the IT world.

References:

Evolution of wireless sensor network design from technology-centric to user-centric: An architectural perspective. International Journal of Distributed Sensor Networks. Diptendu. (2020).

Wireless Sensor Networks: A Descriptive Study on its Types, Topologies and Applications”, JITC, vol. 3, no. 2, Dec. 2022.

Other Web resources and e-books

Problem-solving games for Seedlings enhanced critical thinking and fostered creativity through engaging activities like puzzles and matching games. These games also helped develop patience and perseverance while learning to solve challenges independently.

Play is a crucial part of early childhood development. It offers opportunities for children to explore, experiment, and learn through hands-on experiences. It encourages social, emotional, and cognitive growth while building cooperation, communication, and problem-solving skills. These foundational skills prepare preschoolers for future learning and equip them to thrive in an evolving, interconnected society.

For Janmashtami celebrations, the children enthusiastically created beautiful headgear inspired by Lord Krishna. They enjoyed a fun-filled craft session where they decorated their crowns with vibrant colours and feathers. Later, the kids watched a captivating movie on Lord Krishna, learning about his life, playful nature, and valuable teachings. The celebrations helped the children connect with the festival's cultural significance creatively and joyfully.

In our Rakhi celebration, the kids unleashed their creativity by crafting vibrant rakhis using soft air clay. Their little hands shaped and decorated each rakhi with colourful air clay and imaginative patterns, making every piece truly unique. As they worked, the spirit of Raksha Bandhan came alive, teaching them the beautiful bond of love and protection between siblings through their playful and artistic expressions.

It was a vibrant month filled with fun and interactive activities that encouraged self-confidence, focus, and the joy of discovery.Children were introduced to the concept of number lines, a fun way to learn about numbers and their sequence visually. Through hands-on activities, they practised counting and drawing lines, improving their number sense and developing their fine motor skills.

In our creative sessions, the children explored the magic of colour mixing! They experimented with primary colours to create new shades and learned how different combinations make exciting new hues. This activity fostered their curiosity and creativity while enhancing their understanding of colours.

Our budding artists took their painting skills to the next level. To express their ideas, they experimented with various painting techniques, such as using brushes, sponges, and even their fingers. This encouraged self-expression, improved fine motor control, and gave them the confidence to create freely.

This month, we seamlessly combined creativity, math, and physical activity to equip children with essential life skills while making learning fun and engaging!

We’re thrilled to share the details of our recent classroom activity that brought a touch of market magic to our space—a lively vegetable and fruit market setup, right in the corner of our room! This creative event was designed to blend fun with learning, focusing on addition and money-handling skills in a hands-on environment.

Our classroom was transformed into a mini-market featuring an array of colourful plastic vegetables and fruits. Each item was labelled with a price on a slate, creating a realistic shopping experience. Students eagerly participated by selecting two items, calculating their total cost, and then heading to our checkout counter, where one of their peers played the role of the cashier.

Through this engaging activity, students developed several important skills. They practised addition by calculating the total cost of their chosen items, which enhanced their numerical accuracy and problem-solving abilities. Handling money and making transactions at the checkout counter gave them a practical understanding of financial interactions. Additionally, the activity fostered social skills, as students collaborated to assist each other with calculations and enjoyed the lively market atmosphere.

Even though the market was a small setup within the classroom, it provided a dynamic and interactive learning environment. The enthusiasm was palpable as students navigated their shopping experiences, and our student cashier managed the transactions with impressive confidence.

We’re excited about future activities that will continue to make learning both engaging and practical. Stay tuned for more creative adventures in our classroom!

This month has been full of enriching activities designed to nurture our students' creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking—key 21st-century skills. Our Rakhi-making activity was a wonderful opportunity for students to use various materials to craft their own unique designs. This hands-on experience allowed them to explore creativity and innovation, while also improving their collaboration and communication skills by working in groups. As they transformed materials into rakhis, students honed their decision-making and problem-solving abilities.

In addition, we organized a house competition where students created mural art using waste bottle caps. The activity, centered around the theme of sustainability, fostered environmental awareness, as students learned to repurpose waste materials. Working collaboratively in their house teams, they demonstrated leadership and teamwork, while also showcasing their innovation and problem-solving skills by transforming waste into beautiful art.

On Sports Day, our students participated in a group activity where they worked together to cut out images of famous sports persons from magazines and answered questions about them. This activity not only encouraged research skills but also emphasized the importance of teamwork and effective communication. It provided a great opportunity for students to learn more about sports icons, sparking inspiration and admiration for their achievements.

Through these engaging activities, our students are not only developing valuable 21st-century skills but also learning the importance of creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking, all of which will serve them well in the future.

his month, students have been actively developing 21st-century skills through engaging in academic activities. One key highlight was their exploration of matter, where they solved riddles to demonstrate their understanding. This approach not only reinforced their grasp of scientific concepts but also honed their problem-solving and critical-thinking skills. Their presentations during Summative Assessment on the matter further showcased their ability to communicate ideas.

Additionally, students participated in a gallery walk focused on the transdisciplinary theme of Who We Are on festivals and celebrations. They observed various images depicting different cultural events and used their critical thinking skills to analyze and question what they saw. This exercise encouraged them to make connections, frame insightful questions, and deepen their understanding of diverse cultural practices.

Under the transdisciplinary theme "Who We Are," students immersed themselves in a variety of educational activities. They delved into research by exploring a wide range of library resources, which significantly enhanced their information literacy, collaboration, and communication skills. Conducting interviews with family members and doctors provided valuable insights into the complexities of body interactions, deepening their understanding of human health. Analyzing survey data on healthy lifestyle choices allowed them to compare trends, draw meaningful conclusions, and establish personalized health goals. Furthermore, a visit to the biology lab offered a hands-on application of classroom concepts, reinforcing their learning and solidifying their grasp of the material.

The Summative Assessment for the "Who We Are" unit featured a dynamic Tic Tac Toe arrangement, incorporating diverse and engaging activities such as role plays, case studies, "Doctor for a Day," body system charades, a healthy habits calendar, quiz creation, body facts posters, fact-finding exercises, and surveys. This array of tasks provided students with ample opportunities for voice, choice, and ownership in their learning process. Through these activities, students not only enjoyed the experience of planning and presenting their work to peers but also developed crucial 21st-century skills. They enhanced their critical thinking and problem-solving abilities, nurtured creativity and innovation, and refined their communication skills. Collaboration was strengthened through group projects, digital literacy was improved via technology and data management tasks, and leadership and responsibility were demonstrated as

Our Grade 4 students have been immersed in a series of exciting activities this term, each designed to enhance their understanding of 21st-century skills such as leadership, collaboration, and creativity. These engagements allowed students to explore real-world connections and apply their learning in meaningful ways.

One of the highlights was their participation in an election engagement as part of the unit "How We Organize Ourselves." Students enthusiastically formed their political parties, crafted logos, and campaigned for votes. This hands-on activity provided them with a deeper understanding of democracy, political leadership, and the importance of communication and teamwork. Through speeches, debates, and persuasive strategies, students experienced firsthand how elections work, all while collaborating with peers and developing their leadership skills.

The Independence Day celebrations brought an inspiring level of energy, with students participating in the *"Miles to Smiles"* marathon. This event not only celebrated the spirit of freedom but also highlighted the importance of physical fitness and perseverance.

In celebration of National Sports Day, students reflected on their favourite sports, considering what they had learned from engaging in them. From teamwork and resilience to setting goals and practising discipline, each student drew valuable life lessons from their sports experiences. Additionally, they shared who their sports role models are, explaining why they look up to these figures for inspiration, whether it's for their hard work, sportsmanship, or ability to overcome challenges.

The festive spirit continued with Rakshabandhan, where students participated in an inter-class "Best out of Waste Rakhi" competition. They showcased their creativity by using recycled materials to design beautiful rakhis, embracing both the values of sustainability and cultural tradition.

These activities have allowed our students to not only celebrate important cultural and national events but also apply and enhance essential 21st-century skills. Through collaboration, critical thinking, and creativity, they are building the foundation for lifelong learning and success.

Arduino and IR Sensors in Action: In August, Grade 5 students embarked on an exciting hands-on learning experience, enhancing their critical thinking, problem-solving, and technological literacy – key components of 21st-century skills. Students showcased their understanding about circuitry by connected wires, wrote simple codes, and tested their systems and connected the project to real-life projects like obstacle detection projects. Projects like these not only nurture technical abilities but also promote teamwork, adaptability, and creativity – all essential skills for the future.