CHICHÉN ITZÁ, MEXICO Located in the Yucatán state of Mexico, the most recognisable feature of this ancient Mayan city is the pyramidal structure of the Temple of Kukulkan or the El Castillo. The steps of the temple total to 365, indicating each day of the year. During the spring and autumn equinoxes, a snake-like shadow forms over the pyramid. As the sun sets, this shadow flows down to reach a stone serpent head at the foot of the stairs. The Mayans’ skills in astronomy were phenomenal — in fact, they could also predict solar eclipses! An observatory site built for this purpose exists at the site even today.
THE THE COLOSSEUM, COLOSSEUM, ROME ROME At the height of its glory, this monument served as a massively popular site of entertainment. Fights between gladiators as well as between gladiators and animals were a major form of entertainment in ancient Rome. The Colosseum could house more than 50,000 spectators, and so it was divided into four storeys above the ground — the top storey was for the lower classes, the lowest section seated only the most prominent citizens, and the area below the ground would include animals and mechanical devices. The stones from the Colosseum were used for building iconic structures such as the Palazzo Venezia and St. Peter’s Basilica, as well as the infrastructure of River Tiber’s defences. Additionally, earthquakes and other natural and man-made calamities contributed to the destruction of the Colosseum.
ROME
MEXICO
MACHU PICCHU, PERU A striking aspect of this beautiful Incan sanctuary, you will find, is its architecture — it is said that the stones were cut and placed so precisely and perfectly that you cannot even insert a credit card in the crevices! What’s even more astounding is that the structure was built on top of two fault lines, so when an earthquake strikes the region, the edifice just jiggles during the tremors and then comes back to its original position, without any damage to the stones.
PERU BRAZIL
CHRIST THE REDEEMER, BRAZIL Locally known as Cristo Redentor, this statue has been built in a man-made tropical forest, which is considered the world’s largest “urban forest” — the Tijuca National Park. The people of Brazil donated $250,000 to construct the statue. Created during the art deco movement, this is the largest sculpture of that kind in the world. Built atop the Corcovado mountain, in earlier times, you would have to climb 220 stairs to reach the summit. However, escalators and elevators are now available to make one’s journey easy.
nders of the World o The Eight W THE GREAT WALL OF CHINA, CHINA This majestic landmark is so long that it stretches from the Korean border west to the Gobi Desert for a staggering 5,500 miles (8,850 km). It is natural for one to get an impression that the wall is just a single structure. But you will be surprised to know that the actual wall spans 3,889 miles (6,259 km), more than 50 per cent of the total length. The remaining length is made up of trenches (223 miles or 359 km) and natural defensive barriers such as rivers and hills (1,387 miles or 2,232 km).
CHINA JORDAN AGRA EGYPT
THE TAJ MAHAL, AGRA This one doesn’t need any introduction. Besides the iconic white marbled dome and arches, the interiors of the Taj Mahal are filled with exquisite treasures and art works, from the carvings and semiprecious stones to the decorative calligraphy of
the Koran etched onto the walls. Shah Jahan, the brain behind this magnificent structure, was dethroned and imprisoned in the Red Fort by his son Aurangzeb. It is said that he was put in a cell that overlooked the Taj Mahal and from there he gazed upon that beautiful edifice till his death.
PYRAMIDS OF GIZA, EGYPT According to theories, the Pyramids of Giza were named after three different kings. Yes, the largest pyramid, popularly known as the Great Pyramid, was constructed for Khufu; the middle one for Khafre; and the third for Menkaure. Over the centuries, owing to lootings both inside and outside, the pyramids have lost their original splendour. The limestone casings that covered them were stolen, as a result of which the height of the structures has greatly reduced. Imagine what the Pyramids must have looked like in their initial avatar, considering they look so stunning even today!
PETRA, JORDAN This prehistoric Jordanian city, which had been lost to the world for centuries, was rediscovered in the 19th century when a Swiss traveller named Johann Ludwig Burckhardt dressed as an Arab and sneaked his way into a heavily guarded area. Famous for its rock-cut architecture (it has been carved out of sandstones and red, white and pink rocks), Petra was the location where many scenes from the 1989 Hollywood blockbuster Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade were filmed. Map not to scale
Editor’s Note your thought processes. After all, just as every coin has two sides, every thought or idea can be viewed from different angles. In the recent past, we, along with the police personnel of Visakhapatnam, conducted a road safety drive in that city. Road safety was also part of one of our previous issues, where we showcased various ways of staying safe on the road. It is topics like these — relevant to you and I — that find a place in Crystal Quest.
Hello my dear young readers, parents and teachers. Here’s wishing all of you a very Happy Chinese New Year and a Happy St. Valentine’s Day! Welcome to the year of the water snake! It’s a beautiful feeling — being alive. Life is indeed a celebration. Each month, there is something exciting happening around the world, and we at Crystal Quest aim to keep you updated about our world on a monthly basis. I also hope you must have incorporated your New Year resolutions by now. Hopefully, you have your planners up and are becoming well organised with every passing day. Each month, the Crystal Quest team strives to bring you articles that encourage you to THINK OUT OF THE BOX. Every article aims to look at its subject matter from an unexplored angle. They are meant to trigger
Along with road safety comes self safety. If we take care of ourselves by being smart and vigilant, we will not only be helping ourselves but also our police, who strive day and night for our safety. By being responsible citizens, we can ensure a safer environment for ourselves as well as for the people around us. Apart from being vigilant about the road and traffic and ourselves, we should also be responsible for the environment around us. This month, we talk about water in our Eco Page, the next important element after air and that which is often misused. It’s time we take the responsibility, but not just by practising the good habit of saving and conserving water. We also need to get others to follow the same habit, motivating them through kind words and inspiring them with exemplary behaviour. It is also important to be fair and just and not get people to do the action that what we want them to do but don’t really practise ourselves.
to check out our recipe for Lemon Barley Lemonade in this issue. The cooling effect of this drink will help ease the heat. And do read what our teachers have to say about handling exam pressure. This month, we also take you to see the Seven Wonders of the World... or are there eight? Friends, it is very important for each of us to remember, no matter how much information we can access in the form of audio or visuals, we should read every shred of information that is available to us. Reading not only sharpens our mind but also makes us alert to the happenings around us. So, make it a point to read newspapers in English and in your local language.
Neelambari Shelar EDITOR
CQ A brighter, sharper mind means a brighter, sharper future!
Read, Read, Read!
With the summer setting in, writing an examination can indeed be uncomfortable in the sweltering heat. So, do take a break
We have some fun, fun, fun activities for you. Check out our new Activity Pages! CQ TEAM EDITOR Neelambari Shelar
CONTRIBUTING WRITER Suman Agarwal
FEATURE WRITERS Neelambari Shelar Nandini Sengupta Roma Dindi Samrat Biswas Freyan Patel S. Dey
CREATIVE DIRECTOR Neelambari Shelar GRAPHIC / WEB ARCHITECT Niranjan Kumar Palla GENERAL MANAGER Jayasudha Gantasala
ASST TO THE EDITOR, MARKETING AND PROMOTIONS Sandeep Kamble
LOGISTIC & DISTRIBUTION Reddy Ram Kumar
MARKETING AND PROMOTIONS Deepa Bajamahal
CONCEPTUALISED AND PUBLISHED BY Neelambari Shelar
PRINTED BY Spenta Multimedia
Contents
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06 09 10 11 12 15 16 20 21 22 24 26 28 30 34 36 38
Feature – My Safety First School Review – Mumbai School Review – Hyderabad School Review – Goa Career – Teaching Education Abroad – U.K. Passion to Profession – Chef Chinese New Year Special Valentine’s Day Special Know Your Syllabus – ICSE Techno – Solar Panel Grammar – Vowels Little Globetrotter – Sikkim Activity Page Expert Talk – Calcium – The Hero Sports – Marathon Teacher Talk – Pocket Money
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Parent Talk – Pocket Money Children Talk – Pocket Money Grooming – Guide to Happy Feet Soft Skills for Parents – Handling Complaints from School Soft Skills for Kids – Behaviour in Public Soft Skills for Teachers – Handling Examination Pressure Confessions of a Prankaholic My Moral Strongest – Fairness Eco – Save Water, Save Your Planet Lost Games – Blind Man’s Buff Recipe – Lemon Barley Lemonade Yoga – Tall Aims On the Shelf – Gulliver’s Travels
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Crystal Quest Magazine Editorial Office: Flat No. 402, Trendz Developers, Rushikonda, Opp. Gitam College, North Gate, Vishakhapatnam: 530045, Andhra Pradesh Tel.: +91-97011 10566 Hyderabad Office: Srinivas Nagar Colony, Shivam Road, Hyderabad: 500013, Andhra Pradesh Tel.: +91-87909 41414 Goa Office: Edcon Towers, Unit No. 306, 3rd Floor, Near Fidalgo Hotel, Panaji: 403001, Goa Tel.: +91-95525 65923 Mumbai Office: 36 Turner Road, Unit No. 201, Turner Road, Bandra (West), Mumbai: 400050, Maharashtra Tel.: +91-97011 10566 Website: www.crystalquestmagazine.com Helpline No: +91-97011 10566 Email: info@crystalquestmagazine.com Advertising Enquiry: info@crystalquestmagazine.com
Published by Mark International Cover Image Credit: Imagesbazaar.com Credits for images inside: Imagesbazaar.com, Shutterstock / IndiaPicture, Dreamstime.com, Alamy / IndiaPicture, Dinodia photos DISCLAIMER: Duplicating all or any part of this magazine, including photocopying, recording, facsimile transmission, electronic or physical transmission, or otherwise, is prohibited. This magazine and its articles are for information purposes only and do not constitute an offer to sell or solicitation to buy any products or services. The content of this magazine does not seek to influence the opinions/behaviours of the readers. The views and opinions expressed in the articles contained in this magazine are those of the authors and do not constitute the views of the publisher, Mark International, or the printer, Spenta Multimedia. The publisher and the printer are not responsible for any damage or loss resulting from reliance on or use of any information provided in this magazine.
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Feature
My Safety
First
Preparing children for the unseen is a wise thing to do in this day and age, and here are some pointers to help you. I am like a flower in your hand, Fresh and blooming in the sunlight... Make me smile by keeping the thorns aside... You have the power to keep me safe and alright.
Annabel Dsouza There are plenty of news reports circulating, in which it has been mentioned that a child’s safety was threatened or even endangered, leaving him/her with mental, emotional and psychological scars. India is a country where child safety still needs to be effectively implemented. Even places perceived to be safe, like crèches, schools, playgrounds and tuition classes, could have unsafe elements. Hence it is the responsibility of parents, teachers and guardians to not only protect children but also sensitise them to increasing threats. Here are some indicators to identify the safety problem a child could be facing and measures to help deal with it competently. We also tell you how to keep your child and yourself vigilant.
Potential Safety Hazards for Children Uncomfortable touching Bullying Being addressed with inappropriate language Indecent exposure on the Internet Eve teasing February-March 2013
Precautions for Children Know the difference between good and bad touch (refer to the ‘OK! STOP!’ game). List out and study the areas where you go, and know and use quick routes to escape from danger. Shout and call for help if your safety is under threat. Never keep secrets from parents and teachers. Memorise important addresses and telephone and helpline numbers.
Precautions for Parents, Guardians and Teachers Keep a record of all people in the proximity of children. Talk to children about their daily experiences, both good and bad. Be alert for signs of depression or anxiety in children. Encourage children to ask questions and participate in discussions on safety. Monitor your child’s usage of the Internet and curb inappropriate exposure to television. Teach children to never share personal information with strangers. Create a bond of trust where a child does not feel the need to keep secrets or shy from telling the truth or even expressing his/her opinion.
Myth Busters
Myth: Only pret ty lit tle girls are at tacked . Fact: All children, including boys, coul d be at risk. Myth: Usually, strang ers are the villains. Fact: Risk factor could babysitters and even be from close relatives, neighbours. Myth: My child will tell me or show sign s of discomfort. Fact: Children rare ly understand what has happened and may not commun Myth: Only teenager icate due to fear. s Fact: All children, are at risk. including infants an d toddlers, can be vulnerable to danger . Crystal Quest
School Review – Mumbai
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Category: Day School Address of Campus 1: Gr egorios Path, V. N. Purav Marg, Besides Fa irlawn, Chembur, Mumbai: 400071 Address of Campus 2: N. B. Patil Marg, Ghatla, Mumbai 400071 Tel.: +91-22-2520 3790 (Campus 1), +91-22-2520 3791 (Cam pus 2) Email ID: stghchembur@ gmail.com Website: www.stgregorios .net Grades: Nursery to Clas s XII Syllabi: ICSE and ISC Admission Months: Dece mber/January School Strength: Around 2,000 students
Achievements and Awards History of the School
It all started in 1992 with the formation of the St. Gregorios Education & Medical Trust, with the aim to give back something special to the community in which the Trust was based — enlightened and enthusiastic young people, ready to do their bit for mankind. The inspiration was none other than the patron saint of the Trust, St. Gregorios, who stood for love, affection and sympathy. And so was established St. Gregorios High School.
St. Gregorios High School ranked among Mumbai’s top 50 schools in Hindustan Times’ Top Schools Survey conducted last year. The Principal, Mrs. Ranjini Krishnaswamy, was awarded the 2009 National Award for Teachers/Principals by the Government of India.
In 1993, the Gregorian Nursery and Kindergarten started operations, and in 1994 the main school came into force with just 21 pupils in class I. However, almost two decades later, the school is now housed in a massive five-storey building and also has a basketball court, a long-jump pit, a throwball court and stadium. Last year, the school inaugurated its second campus at Ghatla.
Facilities and Activities
A staff of about 100 teachers that also includes counsellors, special educators, physical educators and those imparting education in subjects such as Music, Dance, Speech and Elocution, Computers, and Yoga, among others. Facilities such as well-equipped science laboratories, hi-tech computer labs with Internet access, and a library. A proactive PTA, which organises a variety of programmes and activities and brings out a quarterly newsletter called ‘BRIDGES’. Regular medical and dental check-ups of students and staff members. Career-counselling sessions for standards X and XII. Annually held excursions India and abroad for project assessments.
Crystal Quest
February-March 2013
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My Moral School Review Strongest – Chaitanya
Feb 2013 February-March 2013
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School Review – Goa
Feb 2013 Crystal Quest
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February-March Crystal Quest 2013
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My Moral Strongest Career
Feb 2013 February-March 2013
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Feb 2013 Crystal Quest
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My Moral Strongest Career
Feb 2013 February-March 2013
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Confessions of a Prankster
Feb-March Feb 2013 Crystal2013 Quest
Education Abroad
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February-March Crystal Quest 2013
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My Moral Passion toStrongest Profession
Feb 2013 February-March 2013
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Feb 2013 Crystal Quest
February-March Crystal Quest 2013
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My Moral Passion toStrongest Profession
Feb 2013 February-March 2013
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Chinese New Year Special
N
i Hao, ew Year!
Every year, Chinese communities across the globe ring in the New Year in a celebration of tradition, love, colours and loads of fireworks! How is The Occasion Celebrated? Celebrations kick off on the eve before the New Year, when families have a special dinner and, at midnight, dumplings. Besides, homes are cleaned and new clothes are bought.
Freyan Patel Legend has it that the mighty Jade Emperor, the ruler of all heaven, decided to throw a New Year party one year and invited all the world’s animals. But only 12 showed up, which angered him greatly. To reward the ones who came, he named a year after each of them, which is how we got the years of the Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Water Snake, Horse, Ram, Monkey, Rooster, Dog and Pig. This year, on February 12, Chinese communities around the world welcomed the Year of the Water Snake. The Chinese New Year is the most important festival in the Chinese calendar. This 15-day festival starts on New Year’s Day, the first day of the first month of the Chinese calendar — a newmoon night — and ends on the 15th day, a full-moon night. It is based on the lunar calendar, so its date changes every year.
How Was The Chinese New Year Born? There are numerous myths wound around the celebration of the Chinese New Year, but a favourite is the story of the Nian. A Nian — a terrible mythical beast — used to attack a village on the first day of every New Year and eat its animals and people. To save themselves, the villagers started putting food out on the first day of every New Year. Then, one year, something frightened the Nian… it was a child dressed in red. The following year, the people knew how to deal with the Nian, and, instead of food, they hung red lanterns and scrolls because a Nian is afraid of the colour red! To frighten it, the people also burst firecrackers, and that worked too! From that day to the present, the Chinese New Year is celebrated with bright red lanterns, hangings and, of course, lots of fireworks! And the traditional Lion Dance you see at Chinese New Year parades is a depiction of the Nian’s defeat.
February-March 2013
Day 1: People welcome the gods of heaven and Earth, burst firecrackers and burn bamboo sticks. Parades with Lion Dance troupes, musicians and acrobats crowd the streets. This is the day to honour elders and for the married to present little red packets of money to the younger members of their family. Day 2: The birthday of dogs, who are given special treats.
Days 3-4: People spend time with close family and don't visit anyone. Day 5: The birthday of the God of Wealth. People pay homage to him by eating dumplings. It is considered bad luck to visit people on this day. Day 6: From this day onwards, people start socialising again, and in Taiwan, businesses reopen. Day 7: The birthday of humans. Meals traditionally include noodles. In Malaysia and Singapore, the entire family eats yusheng, a raw-fish and fresh vegetable salad, with chopsticks. The person who tosses the salad the highest is said to get the best luck that year. Day 8: Dinner is a big family affair, and towards midnight, people get ready to bring in Day 9, the Jade Emperor's birthday. The celebrations continue till Day 12 and slow down on Day 13, which is dedicated to General Guan Yu and when light vegetarian food is eaten. Day 14 is spent by people preparing for Day 15, the big finale called the Lantern Festival. Candles are lit outside houses to help guide spirits. Children carry lanterns to temples and public spaces at night. Parks are lit by a beautiful sea of lanterns that contain special messages in the form of riddles that their carriers solve.
Crystal Quest
Valentine’s Day Special
In
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Love
Held globally each year in the month of February, Valentine’s Day rejoices the spirit of love.
S. Dey Few occasions are celebrated with as much pomp and eagerness all over the world as Valentine’s Day. Commemorated annually on February 14, it is devoted to the celebration of love. It is a day when one can profess affection for anyone who holds a special place in their lives, including parents, siblings, friends and even teachers.
How was Valentine’s Day Born?
The history of Valentine’s Day seems to have its origin in Christianity, and there are different accounts of how the day possibly came to be celebrated. The most popular story is that of St. Valentine, first came to be celebrated. Most believe that it is a priest who lived ntine le Va e th of l bo m sy celebrated in the memory of St. Valentine, though many The near Rome around h the historians and scholars disagree with this view, saying also appeared throug 270 AD. The Roman ngs so in es tim l va ie ed that the celebration has its origin in regional rituals m Empire had outlawed the and festivities. and literary works of marriages, and St. peare es ak Sh am illi W of likes Valentine is said to and John Donne. have assisted Christian New Ways of Celebration couples in getting married. While Valentine’s Day was initially a religious Eventually, he was caught and ceremony, over many centuries and especially in recent executed on the orders of the years, it has come to be celebrated as an occasion for Roman emperor. There are many tales professing one’s love and affection. The day is now of the miracles the saint performed before celebrated in many countries all over the world. Some of his death. There is also a legend that St. Valentine used these countries have even devised their own traditions to cut out hearts from parchment and distribute them that are followed on the occasion. among people, especially soldiers, to remind them of God’s love and In India too, the day is now marked with great to encourage them to stick enthusiasm. The concept became popular to their faith. Whether the here during the last two decades, and The pra ctice of story is true or not, the its popularity has grown by leaps and seems exchan t g o in h heart remains a symbol of g a ve bounds over the past few years. ca 18th ce ntury, w st arted aroun rds the spirit of Valentine’s Day. d h ic th into the modern h gradually ev e To learn to make an interesting and o t lve ra cards a C fun Valentine’s Day DIY craft, visit nd gifts dition of givin d It is difficult to correctly Q g to each www.crystalquestmagazine.com. other on the ascertain when the occasion day. Crystal Quest
February-March 2013
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My Moral Know YourStrongest Syllabus
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Techno
Solar Panel Talking about renewable sources of energy, what can be better than the abundantly available solar energy? Let’s meet the medium through which this valuable energy can be used for our daily purposes — solar panels.
Our dear sun is screaming out to all of us daily through his beautiful yellow and crimson rays, asking each one of us to make use of his brilliant energy. Even the sun god, Lord Surya, has approved of using his abundant and unlimited supply of energy and has had it streaming in on Earth for millions of years now. So, why don’t we make use of this energy and reduce the cost of electricity and also help bring down the use of the rapidly diminishing fossil fuels, which is causing a dent in our pockets? February-March 2013
I am the solar panel, and I will enable you to cut costs and use the most effective source of energy to generate power — the sun. I help generate electricity for large commercial and residential establishments. I am a connected package of assembled photovoltaic cells. All solar panels are rated by their DC output power under standard test conditions and the power output of each of the panels typically ranges between 100 and 320 watts. I consist of solar panels, sometimes a battery, a solar tracker, wiring for interconnections, and an inverter. Crystal Quest
25 Why You Should Choose Me Clean energy source: One of my biggest advantages is the lack of pollution on while generating electricity. Savings: Although the initial cost incurred while installing me could be a bitit of a disadvantage, it is majorly seen as a reasonable price to pay, when youu realise the savings you could make on your electricity bills. Renewable: The sun is a renewable energy source, unlike the source thatt is currently generating your power supply. Power for everything: I use the sun’s energy to provide light and hot water to homes, offices and industries. For a moment, think about what the most likely source of power you are using for reading this article could be. I also work in remote regions: I have the advantage to harness power even in the most remote areas, as the biggest source of energy I use is the sun, which can be seen everywhere. My home solar panel can generate a home solar power system, which can make a difference to communities where it is difficult to construct power grids and power lines. Better ways of using energy: Newer technologies have emerged, which hich enable us to store electricity that is harnessed though the use of solar-powered r powered battery chargers. chargers This is another reason why you should switch to solar power.
How I Convert Solar Energy into Electricity My panels are made up of solar cells, which are attached by a wire to a circuit. As light hits this semiconductor, i.e. my solar cells, it gets converted into electricity, which flows through the circuit. My Birth I was born sometime during the beginning of the 19th century, and it was observed that the presence of light is capable of generating usable electrical energy. Most of my solar panels are rigid, but I am also available in semiflexible models based on thin-film cells. My initial panels were first used in space in 1958. Many of my modules are currently produced from silicon photovoltaic cells. Most parts of my modules can be recycled.
Illustration by Team Oktopus
How I can Heat Water and also Reduce Costs
Crystal Quest
At home, most of you use hot water generated from the geyser. Why don’t you install me? I make use of photons, which are light energy from the sun, to produce electricity via the photovoltaic result. My water-heating collectors confine and preserve heat from the sun and transfer this heat to the water, which is stored in the storage tank attached to the heating unit. I am designed in a way wherein I can deliver hot water most of the year, thereby reducing the cost of electricity. February-March 2013
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My Moral Strongest Career Grammar
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My Moral Little Globetrotter Strongest
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Activity Page
Maze
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Activity Page
PUZZLE 2 Find the key words in the alphabet square given above them.
N
D
W
K
I
M R
S
P
I
M
A
G
E
D
O
D
W
A
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G W M
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A
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S M
D
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A
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Q
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Q N
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G
U
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K
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T E U I I X C I N I A S
K N H D A G
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D D A O T F E E U G N I
Solution:
G P T W M A V D T R O E
T E R N A T I O N A L R
Z K E Y M R A L D D T E S
M I S S I O N E W W I F A
A M E M R T F D A K O M F
P D E I F I T A R A I N E I
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N
WARSHIP
N
MESSAGE
A
HUNGER
P
WARNING
A
MALE
I
FELONY
A
WAR
R
KINGDOM
F
FAME
D
TERRAIN
Y
KINDRED
K
ENEMY
I
SOLDIERS
K
INTERNATIONAL
I
DUEL
D
ROUGH
R
INTEGRATION
R
DELIVERANCE
L
RATIFIED
A
INDIA
D
AWAKENING
W
RARE
S
INDEPENDENCE
R
ATTENTION
P
MISSION
O
IMAGE
U
ARMY
N
A
I
T
N
U
E
Y
G
M
I
E
P
N
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S
D
S
A
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A
S
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M R
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N
N
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E
D
A
A
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H
G W M
L
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S M
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Little Globetrotter Quiz Like our Little Globetrotter page? Now it’s time to test your knowledge on the destination covered in this issue, i.e. Gangtok and its state Sikkim. Here you go! By Annabel Dsouza 1)
The famous dynasty that once ruled Sikkim: N _ _ G _ _ L
2)
The study of Tibetan culture: T _ B _ _ _ L _ _ Y
3)
The most important river in Sikkim: T _ E _ T _
4)
This elegant dress of Sikkimese women is mostly made from Chinese silk brocade: B _ K _
5)
This famous Bollywood actor was born in Sikkim: D _ N _ Y / D _ _ Z _ _ _ P _
6)
One of the most popular sports in Gangtok: F _ _ _ B _ _ _
7)
This popular footballer hails from Sikkim: B _ _ C _ _ _ G / B _ _ T _ _
8)
The art in which craftsmen depict Buddhist paintings on silk with embroidery: T _ _ N _ K _
9)
The state animal of Sikkim: R _ _ / P _ _ D _
10) The state bird of Sikkim: B _ _ _ D / P _ _ _ S _ _ T Answers: 1. Namgyal 2. Tibetology 3. Teesta
4. 5. 6. 7.
Baku Danny Denzongpa Football Baichung Bhutia
8. Thangka 9. Red Panda 10. Blood Pheasant
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Expert Talk
Calcium – The Hero I make your bones strong, I help your teeth last long. I give you good health every day, So you won’t feel tired all the way. These are not the only things I do. Read about my powers from what nutritionist Suman Agarwal has to say.
Suman Agarwal
is a qualified nutritionist and the founder and owner of Selfcare India (www.selfcareindia.com).
WHAT IS CALCIUM AND WHAT IS ITS IMPORTANCE FOR OUR BODY? Calcium is the most abundant mineral in the body. Apart from being a component of our bones and teeth, it has a wide range of functions. For instance, it regulates many cellular processes. Then, the functioning of the nervous system requires calcium in order to conduct impulses between the neurons (nerve cells). Calcium and vitamin D are required for the prevention and therapy of osteoporosis. In fact, a good calcium intake during the first ten years of one’s life makes one more resistant to bone fractures caused due to osteoporosis in the older ages. It has been proposed that calcium and vitamin D have additional benefits such as increase in HDL or good cholesterol, maintenance of colon health, reduction in blood pressure, and facilitation of weight loss. Calcium is also important for hormone production. FOOD SOURCES OF CALCIUM The best sources of calcium are milk and milk , yogurt and buttermilk. products such as cheese, Soybean and shellfish, too, are highly rich sources. There are many other sources of calcium that one can include in their diet, although the absorption is lesser compared to the aforementioned sources. February-March 2013
CEREALS
PULSES AND LENTILS Bengal gram Whole black gram dal Green gram Horse gram (whole) Moth beans Soybean DARK GREEN LEAFY VEGETABLES Bottle gourd leaves Colocasia leaves (black) Colocasia leaves (dried) Curry leaves Drumstick leaves
Fenugreek leaves Garden cress Turnip greens NUTS AND OILSEEDS Sunflower seeds Almonds Coconut (dry) Nil seeds Groundnuts Mustard seeds Niger seeds Piyal seeds Safflower seeds White sesame seeds FRUITS Apricots (dry) Black currants Dry dates Custard apple
Recommended Amount of Calcium-rich Food Parents should include certain foods in their children’s meals. Here are some of the recommended food items: Breakfast: Milk, milk products, milk with cereal Lunch: Any two from chicken, curd, paneer and tofu Dinner: Any two from chicken, curd, paneer and tofu Besides the above, milk or buttermilk (lassi) should be given as an evening snack to children.
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35 CALCIUM DEFICIENCY If one, especially a teenager, has calcium deficiency, their growth, particularly height gain and bone structure, will be affected. Apart from this, the following health risks/diseases can be caused due to calcium deficiency: Osteoporosis High blood pressure/ hypertension Muscular disorder Muscle cramping, especially in the legs Dry skin/ brittle nails Yellow teeth Tetany Pigeon chest Bone fractures or breakage MAIN CAUSES OF CALCIUM DEFICIENCY Calcium deficiency is caused due to low vitamin D3 levels and a poor intake of calcium-rich food. Thus, lack of sun exposure and insufficient consumption of milk and milk products could lead to calcium deficiency. The test for determining serum-calcium levels is best for checking your vitamin D3 levels, considering the nutrient helps in the absorption of calcium. OTHER BONE CONDITIONS THAT ONE NEEDS TO BE AWARE OF Apart from fractures, rickets is a condition to watch out for. This disorder may happen in children with calcium deficiency or a poor dietary intake. It can also be caused due to poor absorption, so, in this case, it is best to maintain vitamin D3 levels. Then, there is the metabolic
The ideal amount of calcium intake for children and adults is as follows: Children: 500–800 mg Growing children (ages 9–18): 1,300 mg Adults: 1,000–1,200 mg Pregnant and lactating women, as well as those who have undergone menopause, require a higher intake.
bone disease, which is another common outcome of the low dietary intake of calcium. One must also guard against connective tissue disease, commonly known as brittle bone disease, an inherited tissue disorder which can be present in small to lethal forms. RECOMMENDED EXERCISES Any kind of weight-bearing exercises should be done. Exercising in the sun is best for calcium absorption. Any sport, especially something with cardiovascular exercises, is good. Research also shows that jumping on the trampoline helps increase calcium levels. CALCIUM SUPPLEMENTS In case of children and teenagers, calcium should come from their diet and not from supplements. Vitamin D3 supplements may be consumed, though. Children should avoid calcium supplements unless they are on steroids. Lactose-intolerant children and adults can consume milk products instead of milk. If required, one can take up to 500 mg of a calcium supplement once a day. In case of severe lactose intolerance, one can consume 500 mg of calcium per day, along with vitamin D.
HEALING F RACTURES Recognising a Fracture
Fractures are cracks or breaks in a bone/s caused due to injuries. When there is acute pain and swelling in the part where one has hurt themselves, it is a sign of a fracture.
Treatment of a Fracture
A fracture must be immediately looked into by a specialist. It can be treated by a cast or, in extreme cases, by a surgery. An X-ray is used to identify the breaking of
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the bone. During the cure procedure, it must be ensured that the patient’s calcium intake increases and that their body has high vitamin D levels to enable the absorption of calcium.
First Aid Till the Patient Reaches the Hospital
The best thing to do is to immobilise the affected body part and use a stick or support on the broken area. Do not apply any pressure on or massage that portion of the body. One can take a dose of a painkiller.
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Photo credit Firoze Mistry / Dinodia
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Grooming
Guide to Happy Feet Our feet are, in a way, our extremely important companions because they enable us to walk, run, jump and play. Hence, it is crucial that we look after them for a happy and active life.
Sana Krishna and Annabel Dsouza A typical day for children involves various activities such as walking, running, playing and jumping. Our feet not only support us in all these activities but also carry most of our body weight. Many of us tend to neglect the cleanliness and well-being of our feet, and, as a result, we become prone to injuries and infections. Can you imagine what may happen to one’s playtime if their feet are hurting? Hence, it is important to include maintaining foot hygiene and foot care in our schedule. There are two main reasons why children’s feet need special attention and care. Firstly, unlike adults’ feet, children’s feet are in the growth stage and hence their bones, muscles and tendons are supple and highly prone to injuries. However, in case of an injury, children’s feet recover soon after receiving orthopaedic help. Secondly, owing to rigorous playing and sweating, children’s feet may meet with many wounds and infections. Following are some common foot problems that occur in adults as well as children: February-March 2013
Verruca/Plantar Warts: Types of warts that grow on the soles of the feet and can be itchy or painful. Calluses/Corns: Raw and hurtful areas of skin that has thickened. Also known as hyperkeratosis. Athlete’s Foot/Tinea Pedis: This is a skin infection caused by a microscopic fungus. Also known as ringworm of the foot. Ingrown toenails: This is a painful condition of the toe, wherein there is pain along the edges of the nail.
Foot Hygiene Along with overall cleanliness habits such as brushing their teeth and having a bath, children should be taught to ensure foot sanitation as well. Following are some simple and effective ways that help when done regularly: Always trim toenails. Dirt collects easily in long nails and crevices, resulting in foul-smelling feet. Immerse your feet in hot water with some antiseptic and soak for 15–30 minutes. Gently scrub your feet with a loofah or a pumice stone after washing them. Crystal Quest
43 A Boot that Suits
Our footwear forms an integral part of our attire. Whether going to school or for a birthday party, we choose our shoes to suit the occasion. However, we must also consider our comfort and cleanliness while selecting footwear. Following are some points to remember while choosing footwear: Try wearing comfortable shoes such as trainers and sneakers as and when possible. Avoid wearing high heels for too long. Measure your feet every six weeks if you feel your shoes get too tight after some time of purchase. Choose well-fitting shoes and ensure they have enough space so that you can wiggle your toes. While buying sports shoes, press your heel onto the ground to check whether you have sufficient cushioning. Wear fresh, clean cotton socks and change them everyday. Before going to bed, massage some coconut oil onto your feet and wear socks. Wash your feet thoroughly the next morning.
Treat for Your Feet — A Mini Pedi! Sometimes, after a long playtime, all you may want to do is take off those stress-filled shoes, unwind and relax your feet. A mini pedi (mini pedicure for children) will help you do just that.
Fun facts about the feet
A specialist who treats foot problems is known as a podiatrist. A human foot and ankle consist of 26 bones, 33 joints, and more than 100 muscles, tendons and ligaments. The foot has over 25 per cent of the bones of the human body. Roughly 5,00,000 sweat glands exist in a pair of feet. The afternoon is the best time to shop for shoes, as the feet tend to be more swollen then.
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Yes, who says pedicures are just for our parents? This simple and fun pedicure can be performed at home by following just a few steps.
Mommy, I would need these: Nail clipper Cuticle cream Cuticle pusher Cotton pads Emery board Loofah or pumice stone Gentle foot scrub Foot moisturiser A bucket, with soapy water and lots of bubbles in it
Mommy, let’s do this: Clip your nails to a decent size and shape them using an emery board. Soak your feet in water containing; half a cup of sea salt, lemon juice, few drops of your favourite liquid soap and 10–12 drops of any essential oil such as lavender and eucalyptus. Immerse your feet in this water for 20 minutes. Pat them dry and remember to dry the space between your toes. Apply some cold cuticle cream to your feet and leave it on for 5–7 minutes. Exfoliate using a gentle pumice stone to get rid of the dry and dead skin cells. Wipe off the cream and use a cuticle pusher to push back your cuticles lightly (ask an elder to assist you with this). Then, wipe your feet dry and gently massage them with a foot scrub. After scrubbing, wash your feet well, dry them, and apply a generous amount of moisturiser on them. A healthy and happy life depends a lot on the well-being of your feet. Hence, you must take care of them and also create awareness among your friends and family members. Ask your sports teacher to show you stretching exercises for the feet and always warm up before you start intensive running. Also, do not ignore any pain in or injury on your feet and inform your parents/teachers immediately. This will ensure that you keep tapping to the tunes of life with your healthy and happy feet. February-March 2013
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Confessions of a Prankaholic
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Last Christmas, I wanted to gift something to my 18-year-old brother but didn’t know what. On the night before Christmas Eve, I got an idea. I stealthily walked into my brother’s room and stole his beloved gaming console. The next morning, my brother was all panicky and teary-eyed, as he wasn’t able to locate his prized possession. I then suggested that we pray to Santa Claus for the console to be returned and also put out a huge stocking near the window in the living room. At night, when my brother went to his room for sleep, I furtively put his consolee into the stocking. Finally, on Christmas, when my brother opened the stocking, he was overjoyed to see his lost gaming console brought back to him. He somehow sensed that something was fishy, so he asked me whether I had anything to do with this “weird” situation. It was no use withholding the truth from him, so I t, admitted my prank. Much to my surprise, my brother wasn’t a bit angry. In fact, he bought me my favourite comic book as my Christmas present.
HIMANSHU R., 11 years
My bbest ffriendd is a hhuge fan of a famous Bollywood actor. She really wants to meet him someday. Once, all of us friends wrote her a fake letter from that celebrity, in which “he” said that he really admires her as a fan and wants to meet her. My friend was so overjoyed. But one of our group members accidentally slipped out the truth and dashed all her hopes. She was so crestfallen. However, we assured her that we will soon help her meet him one day. We then got her a DVD of a film starring that actor and watched it at her house. She was cheered up.
I once wanted to play a prank on my elder brother just for fun. Each of us has a pair of jeans which are of the same colour, make and brand but differ in times of size. One day, while my brother was having a bath and his clothes were lying on his bed, I replaced his pair of jeans with mine. When my brother emerged from the bathroom and tried to put on his pair, he just couldn’t get them on him. He tried, tugged, pushed, pulled and forced them up his legs, but the jeans just didn’t fit him. And then he noticed the sticker on the jeans where the waist size was written. He also saw me laughing from behind the door. So, he ran after me, caught me and tickled me to no end. But, I must say, it was fun to watch my brother struggle with the pair of jeans that he can never gget into.
SIDDHARTH B. KULKARNI, ULKARNI, 12 years
DEVEN G., 15 years
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Illustration by Team Oktopus
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My Moral Strongest Recipe
Photo credit Scimat / Science Source / Dinodia
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Yoga
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Tall Aims Looking to increasing your height? Then get started on these simple yoga exercises, which also come with a lot of other health benefits.
It feels great to be blessed with a good height. After all, our height is an indicator of our growth and development , which, if levels. Here are some easy-to-do yoga practised regularly and dedicatedly, can help boost your height. Also described are their health benefits other than height increase.
Sukhasana Sit on the floor and stretch out your legs. Now, fold them in to form a cross-legged position. Make sure your hands are resting on your knees and your back is straight. Also, your bottom should be pushed to the floor and your knees should be as close to the floor as you can bring them to be. Close your eyes, do some deep breathing, and concentrate on it. After five deep breaths, raise your arms above your head while you inhale and bring them down while you exhale. Repeat this 5–6 times. Straighten your legs and relax.
Illustration by Team Oktopus
Priyanka Agarwal
Benefits: Calms your mind and relieves tiredness. Strengthens your back and stretches your knees and ankles. Fortifies your collarbones. Precaution: in case there You should avoid performing this is an inflammation or injury in your knee or hips.
Tadasana Stand straight with the big toes touching each other and heels a bit apart. Try to keep all your toes in alignment; if doing this is difficult, keep a distance of about 3–5 inches between your feet. Sway back and forth on your toes. Once you feel your body weight is evenly distributed on both your feet, stop swaying and stand firm. Keep your thighs firm, but do not lock your knees. Pull your belly and hips in. Position your arms on the sides of your body with your palms in and fingers together. Slightly pull your shoulders away and back to open your chest. Stand tall, take a few deep breaths, and visualise a tall mountain that is aiming to reach the sky.
Illustration by Team Oktopus
Benefits: Improves your posture and strengthens your core muscles, thighs and legs. Improves organs as well as life processes such as digestion and respiration. Facilitates mind-body balance. Crystal Quest
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List of Merchants and Offers Valid on Student Discount Card Visakhapatnam Merchant Details
Nature Of Discount/Offer
Chill Out Ice Cream Parlour
Get an ice-cream Sundae worth ` 65/- on bill value above ` 400/-
She Collections Clothing Store
10% on Clothing
Punjabi Tadka/Hangout Cafe
10% on Food
Dolls-n-Chic Boutique
10% on Clothing
Club Latitudes - Spa, Salon & Health Club 15% on Spa, Salon & Health Club Rana’s Fashion Port
10% Flat discount on shopping above ` 1000/-
Gini & Jony
10% Flat discount on shopping above ` 1000/-
Purple Fashions
10% cash discoount on all products
Aarif Opticians
15% to 30% discount
Wardrobe Clothing Store
10% discount on clothing
WFC - Food and Gaming Zone
15% on Food
Deep Blues Clothing Store
30% on Clothing
13 Square - Food and Gaming Zone
20% on party hall, 12% on food and gaming
Suhagan Beauty Parlour
10% on all services
Nu Yu Beauty Salon
From 10% to 20% on Skin and Hair services *T&C Apply 10% on Beauty and Hair Services and 25% to 30% on Gym services *T&C Apply
Raaghavi Beauty Parlour Hyderabad Merchant Details
Nature Of Discount/Offer
Priyanka Enterprises
10% on any sale
Archies Dilshuknagar
10% On Gifts
Archies Kothapet
10% On Gifts
The Looms
10% From ` 3000 & 5% From 1K to 2999
Sri Rama Kids Wear
10% From ` 500 Onwards
Nagender Ribbon and Bangle store
5% on all items
Abhinav Homeo stores
10 % on all treatments and products
Heera Stationery and Novelties
10% on all books and stationery (except note books)
Tripura Gifts and Novelties
10% on all gifts and toys
Honest Bag Centre
10% on all ranges of bags
Bombay Gift House
10% on all gifts, toys and stationery
YSSR Computers
5 - 10% on all items
Smart Training and research India Pvt Ltd
5 - 10% on all items
DBRS Naturals and Herbals
10% on all items
GOA Merchant Details Ahsaan Bags Footmark Bicholim Goa Jai Santoshi Pearls,Panji
Nature Of Discount 10% on all products 10% on all products 15% on all range of pearls
Singbal’s Book House
10% on all branded earrings 15% on other prodcuts 10% on all accessories 10% on stationery and gifts 5% on sports wear 20% on bags 10% on all books (other than notebooks)
Tanin garments
15% on all range of clothes
Blue Lady water park
Free entry to the park (FLAT ` 350/- discount)
Time Zone (Play area for kids)
Free entry to the park (FLAT ` 250/- discount)
Kanekar Corner KGN Gifts and Toys Corner Laxmi store (book store)