Annual Exhibition 2016

The Annual Exhibition on 6th August 2016, customarily focuses on ingraining a scientific and creative attitude in young students to make them comprehend the interdependence of science, technology and society, with a hands'-on experience. Skilfully woven through the exhibits was the theme of this year's exhibition, Climate Change. Spectacular displays of functional models, informative diagrams and charts, with live demonstrations showcased the scientific temper of our young scientists. It was a surreal experience as students embarked on a mission to unravel the mysteries of science even as they celebrated the richness of their culture and heritage with social science displays. They wondrously wove Science, Mathematics, Social Science and the Languages, into a single colourful canopy. Our honourable chief guest on the occasion, Professor Dr. B. N Jain, Vice Chancellor (retd.) BITS PILANI (all locations), was welcomed in tradition by our students with a tikka and sprinkle of rose petals. This was followed by the unfurling of the national flag in the presence of our Chairman, Mr. Prafull Goradia, Vice-Chairperson, Dr. Ms. Nayana Goradia and Principal, Ms. Tania Joshi as the School choir sang the national anthem. A special assembly was conducted on the occasion in the foundation hall. The audience was engrossed in the mesmerising performance by the school choir on raag malhaar.followed by an enthralling dance performance which was a fusion of the Ghoomar and contemporary dance depicting how mans uncontrollable greed ravages Mother Nature.

The Indian School Science Magazine, the proud resonance of the Indianites is an exciting journey into the world of science, brought out by the children themselves was then released by the chief guest Dr Jain,Dr(Mrs) Nayana Goradia and Mr Raisinghani.The topics chosen for the Science magazine this year were based on climate change.The magazine was edited and designed by Manav Arora and Hammad Ali Of class XI. In his address, Dr Jain spoke about the importance of science and technology in transforming our world,how the technology has brought about changes in our lives.He highlighted the role of students in working on innovative projects that would make our country more research oriented.The students of the senior school asked him about the characteristics needed to be a successful engineer ,futue of research in India etc. A model of Green Building designed and handcrafted by the students and the Art Department was the highlight of the day which exemplified the transition to alternate resources to ensure a high quality of life, wisely using natural resources by participatory action. Some key features of the model included solar panels, wind energy, vermi-composting, battery-operated cars, an underground tunnel, phragmites-invasive plants, a herbal garden and rainwater harvesting.

The exhibition opened for parents at 10 am and saw the attendance of a large number of parents who appeared to enjoy and appreciate the projects displayed. As one entered the reception area itself, one felt the pulse and the magnitude of the event! The entire school was abuzz with activity. The first floor was the venue of the holiday homework projects of classes I to V. Beautiful projects relating to the theme of our School this year, Africa were exhibited. A riot of colour was amply seen on flashcards and calendars created to depict the culture and cuisines etc of the vibrant countries of Africa. Science Department Young minds of classes IX to XII displayed their scientific skills through their projects depicting climatic change and its possible solutions. Some highlights included the detection of moisture in soil, the analysis of dust in air and the detection of dissolved oxygen in water. Keeping these environmental problems in mind, the students found solutions in the form of non-conventional resources namely, a solar water pump for irrigation, the use of solar energy to convert chlorine water for lighting houses and trapping carbon dioxide by using sodium hydroxide solution!

The point of attraction of the exhibition was a hologram depicting virtual 3D images of an object. It was created by the students of class X. Other working models included a robotic arm, hydraulic crane, a magnetic levitation, vacuum cleaner, sonar, Eddy current, ferro fluid, microphone and many more. The metro windmill successfully built up the curiosity of the audience, depicting how the energy of a moving metro can be harnessed and used for other purposes. The magnetic primer designer related the concept to the theme of the day climate change.

Students from classes IX to XII included two physiological working models of the, heart and dialysis. Both were highly appreciated by the visitors. Two activities such as osmosis with eggs and a comparative analysis of medicinal plants using chromatography were performed by students. These activities attracted the attention of many viewers and students were encouraged by them to adapt more research-based activities like this for better understanding. Genetic engineering on maize was yet another project which gained attention as it highlighted the predicament of countries suffering from malnutrition and also showed us how to increase nutritive value with biotechnology. The exhibits included still- models of an oil refinery, the human digestive system, soil profile, the effect of climate on our national parks, Marble Cancer and working models of a solar- powered cooler and a steam boat, to name a few. Live experiments showing concepts of pressure and density were a feast to the eyes.

There was also a work experience exhibition in which many students demonstrated how to make useful items from waste plastic items at home. Lamps made from plastic bottles and spoons, flower vases made from plastic bottles etc., were on display

Biochar presented by class X was also impressive. Last but not least, an ayurvedic garden indicated the importance of ayurveda for healthy living. Mathematics Department

Exhibits from the primary section displayed mathematical tricks, use of angles in various dance forms, hieroglyphic numbers and the formation of tutsi baskets based on symmetry.

Taking the theme further, the middle wing showcased Babylonian mathematics, Mavuko craft work, discussed about Egyptian mathematicians and mathematical principle behind operating a boomerang.

Senior classes focused on African Fractals and constructed a fractal pyramid. A short skit on mathematical principles behind construction of the Egyptian pyramid was the highlight of the event. Mathematics behind Pyramids was showcased through various models. Procedure and prospects for Three-Dimensional Printing were highlighted through the model showing the layer by layer manufacturing.

Use of Mathematics in jewellery was one of the most sought after exhibits as it brought out one of the very unexpected usages of math.

Game counters saw a great foot fall too. Mancala, Tower of Hanoi, mathematical puzzles, etc were amongst the favourites. Students showcased the formation of fractals experimentally highlighting their simplicity , yet importance in real life.

Mathematical movies discussing about mathematical history of Pyramids formation, development of Number One, Formation of fractals were well received by parents and the students alike.

Conical Chandelier made by students using mathematical principle grabbed many eye balls too.

Social science Department Parents and students were excited to know more about Africa through different exhibits put up by the social science department. Children from the 8th grade presented information about various countries and issues related to them in the form of newspapers andLand forms and bio diversity of Africa was displayed by the students of 9th grade . There was a power packed performance by the drama society Paigam of the Indian school based on the famous story of Premchand -Mandir Masjid Parents and students were eager to know more about Africa and thus tested their knowledge through the Quiz conducted by the students of grade 11. The students from the commerce section came up with three exciting ideas which were spinning the wheel, voting booth and pitching the business idea .

The psychology department showcased Emotional Intelligence (EQ), the capacity to be aware of, control, and express one's emotions, and to handle interpersonal relationships judiciously and empathetically. Several studies point to just how important EQ can be to success, even trumping IQ and experience. Psychology students as EQ specialists, administered a questionnaire to measure the Emotional Intelligence of visitors and accordingly categories of good EQ, above average EQ, average EQ and low EQ were given. They offered tips on how to strengthen emotional intelligence with strategies like increasing awareness about feelings, changing irrational thinking, altering emotions, keeping stress at bay among others.

Ms. Parul Khungar.