Nivedita Mukerjee
Education consultancy for parents and schools
3-2-1 TUESDAYS WITH MS NIV
Issue #226, 5th November 2024
Children rise to the expectations of the adults in the environment. Whether it is negative or positive. Whether you are a parent or an educator, ask yourself these questions.
- Do I automatically assume they’ll struggle with certain subjects/tasks, or do I believe they can develop skills with effort?
- When they face challenges, do I think “they can’t do it” or “they’re not ready yet”?
- Do I catch myself using limiting language like “you’re not good at this” versus “you’re still learning”?
- How do I react when they make mistakes – with disappointment/frustration or as learning opportunities?
- Do I find myself comparing them unfavorably to others, or do I focus on their individual progress?
- Am I more likely to point out their errors or celebrate their efforts?
- When I think about their future, do I have preset limitations in mind or see open possibilities?
- Do I make assumptions about what they “can’t” do based on past experiences?
- Am I projecting my own fears or unfulfilled aspirations onto them?
- What words do I consistently use when describing them to others?
- Do I share more negative stories or positive ones about their behavior/achievements?
- How often do I express confidence in their abilities versus doubt?
- Do I rush to help because I don’t think they can handle it, or do I give them space to try?
- Am I more focused on protecting them from failure or encouraging them to take appropriate risks?
- Do I find myself using phrases like “be careful” more often than “give it a try”?
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Three images of the week
Two Thoughts of the Week
“No matter how calmly you try to referee, parenting will eventually produce bizarre behavior, and I’m not talking about the kids. Their behavior is always normal.”
― Bill Cosby
“Children do not experience our intentions, no matter how heartfelt. They experience what we manifest in tone and behavior.”
― Gordon Neufeld, Hold On to Your Kids: Why Parents Need to Matter More Than Peers
One Video of the Week
There is an epidemic of school suspensions in the U.S. and the downstream consequences are severe. Adults suspend students, and while that may sound obvious, Rosemarie Allen realized that the problem might be the solution. When dealing with the difficult behaviors of children, what if we turned our focus inward? Dr. Rosemarie Allen works passionately to ensure that children have access to high-quality early childhood programs that are developmentally and culturally appropriate. She teaches classes at Metro State University focused on raising teachers’ awareness of the impact equity, privilege, and power can have in the classroom. Dr. Allen serves as an intern on the Early Childhood Task Force with President Obama’s “My Brother’s Keeper” initiative and is a respected keynote speaker on culturally responsive practices and cultural competence.
Reading with Ms. Meenu: Tip of the week
Reading Strategies
For any reading activity to succeed, kids need to understand and remember what they read and that’s not necessarily a slam dunk. Literature circles are an important tool for our understanding of how reading-as-thinking is happening at a pretty early stage, and educators do show kids the specific cognitive moves that skilled readers use to crack tough texts. We should always explain to our students that smart readers:
Visualize: They make mental pictures or sensory images as they read.
Connect: They connect the text to their own experience to events in the world to other readings.
Question: they actively wonder, surface uncertainties and interrogate the text, the author or the characters.
Infer: They predict, hypothesize, interpret and draw conclusions.
Evaluate: They determine relative importance, make judgements and develop critiques.
Analyze: They notice elements of the author’s craft: text structures, language, style, theme, point of view.
Recall: They can retell, summarize and remember information.
Self-monitor: They can recognize and act upon uncertainty as they read; adjusting, troubleshooting, fixing up their understanding.
Keep Reading!
Meenu Gera
Consulting home and school librarian and reading guide.
Career assessment, guidance and placement strategies:
Megha is currently studying in grade 10 under the CBSE curriculum. She aspires to pursue medicine but is unsure if this is the right career path for her. Additionally, she is contemplating whether to complete her senior schooling in India or Dubai. Her parents are considering a switch from the national curriculum to the state curriculum if she stays in India, allowing her to focus on NEET exam preparation. Both Megha and her parents are feeling uncertain about her career direction, the choice of curriculum, and the study destination, leading to significant confusion.
The career expert at Fermata addressed each concern, outlining the pros and cons to help them gain clarity. For the career uncertainty, the recommended starting point was a career assessment. Regarding the curriculum, the expert explained the benefits of each curriculum in alignment with the NEET preparation. The decision about where Megha will study for her senior school will be finalized once her career direction is clearer, as this will help define her academic path.
At Fermata, the experts use a highly customized approach within a defined structure to meet the unique needs of each student.
Case study provided by: Team Fermata, www.fermataco.com
And Finally…
From the archives – issue#002
Many of you have been asking for the earlier editions of this news letter, am very happy to note that you are enjoying the content served here. So, I with every new issue I am putting out a news letter from the archives here, starting from the very first one. Enjoy and subscribe.
3-2-1 Tuesdays with Ms Niv
3-2-1 TUESDAYS WITH MS NIV
Issue #225, 29th October 2024
Let us together uncover any systemic disparities or inequities in our school’s policies, practices, and outcomes for different student populations in our school. Here are some guiding questions to reflect upon:
- What is the racial/ethnic, socioeconomic, and disability composition of the student body? and, how does this compare to the overall demographics of the community the school serves?
- How are financial, instructional, and extracurricular resources distributed across different student groups on our campus? and, are there any disparities in funding, class sizes, course offerings, technology access, etc. between different student demographics on the campus?
- What are the academic achievement gaps between different student groups (e.g. race, socioeconomic status, disability status) and, how do graduation rates, college enrollment, and other long-term outcomes vary across these student demographics?
- Are there disproportionate rates of suspension, expulsion, or other disciplinary actions for particular student groups? and, what support systems (counseling, tutoring, mentoring, etc.) are available to support students from underserved backgrounds?
- Does the curriculum and instructional materials reflect the diversity of the student body and community? and, do teachers receive training on culturally responsive teaching and avoiding implicit biases?
- How accessible and inclusive are the school’s communication and engagement efforts for families of diverse backgrounds? and, are there opportunities for meaningful partnerships with community organizations serving underrepresented groups?
- What is the school/district’s stated commitment to educational equity? and, how are school leaders held accountable for advancing equity goals and outcomes?
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Three images of the week
Two Thoughts of the Week
We are all creative, but by the time we are three of four years old, someone has knocked the creativity out of
us. Some people shut up the kids who start to tell stories. Kids dance in their cribs, but someone will insist they
sit still. By the time the creative people are ten or twelve, they want to be like everyone else. –Maya Angelou
The greatest good you can do for another is not just to share your riches, but reveal to them their own. –
Benjamin Disraeli
The single largest variable that predicts SAT scores is family income. If you want higher SAT scores, you need
to get your kids born into wealthier families. You know, it’s great to tell kids to pull themselves up by their own
boot straps, but you better put boots on them first. –Paul Houston
One Video of the Week
2019 National Teacher of the Year, Rodney Robinson, uses stories from his years teaching in the Richmond Juvenile Detention Center to show the need for teachers of color. Rodney Robinson is a 19-year teaching veteran. He became a teacher to honor his mother, who struggled to receive an education after being denied an education as a child due to segregation and poverty in rural Virginia. In 2015, Robinson started teaching at Virgie Binford Education Center, a school inside the Richmond Juvenile Detention Center, in an effort to better understand the school-to-prison pipeline. Robinson uses the whole child approach to education to help the students who are most vulnerable. His classroom is a collaborative partnership between himself and his students and is anchored in him providing a civic centered education that promotes social-emotional growth. Robinson uses the knowledge he has gained from his students to develop alternative programs to prevent students from entering the school-to-prison pipeline.
And Finally…
From the archives – issue #001
Many of you have been asking for the earlier editions of this news letter, am very happy to note that you are enjoying the content served here. So, I with every new issue I am putting out a news letter from the archives here, starting from the very first one. Enjoy and subscribe.
3-2-1 Tuesdays with Ms Niv
3-2-1 TUESDAYS WITH MS NIV
Issue #224, 22nd October 2024
“What specific benefit will I gain by changing this habit?”
“What small, manageable step can I take today to start this change?”
“How can I set up my environment to support this new habit?”
Whether you are a student, parent or an educator, this festival season, ask yourself these three questions to work on a better version of yourself before the end of this year.
This is a free newsletter. If you like my content, please subscribe by entering your email ID here.
Three images of the week
Two Thoughts of the Week
“Your beliefs become your thoughts,
Your thoughts become your words,
Your words become your actions,
Your actions become your habits,
Your habits become your values,
Your values become your destiny.”
― Gandhi
“A nail is driven out by another nail; habit is overcome by habit.”
― Erasmus
One Video of the Week
Have you ever wondered how long would it take you to change a habit or create a habit? There is a myth and a truth about the researched reality of changing or acquiring a habit.
Nwal Hadaki is a fourth-year medical student who is passionate about public speaking and spreading life coach advice to people of all ages.
Reading with Ms. Meenu: Tip of the week
Ten Compelling Reasons to Read Aloud:
As we already know, reading Aloud is JOY. But on the side, we always have to consider student learning targets. It is important to have authentic interactions about concepts and ideas that bubble up in our minds. Kids always wonder about things. Reading aloud should be the time when kids should feel free to question anything. We should support reading aloud as a key instructional strategy. Always keep these cognitive reasons to Read Aloud:
· Expands vocabulary
· Celebrates the written and illustrated word
· Fosters a strong sense of community
· Promotes reading
· Builds a foundation for future learning
· Supports budding writers
· Showcases a proficient reader’s strategy use
· Sparks collaborative conversations
· Encourages perspective taking and empathy
· Opens windows to other worlds
Keep Reading!
Meenu Gera
Consulting home and school librarian and reading guide.
Career assessment, guidance and placement strategies:
Sakshi, a student completing her double major in Biochemistry at Jain University, Bangalore, aspired to become a skin specialist. To achieve this goal, she needed to enroll in a master’s program. However, before taking that step, she sought clarity on whether her career choice aligned with her personality. We advised her to take a career assessment. The test revealed her core competencies, and the listed career options aligned well with her goal. Gaining this confidence, she proceeded to apply to one of the best universities in Mumbai for her master’s program.
Fermata offers a simple, 30-minute, login-based career assessment that maps career choices to an individual’s personality, helping them build a purpose-driven career path under the guidance of seasoned experts at Fermata.
Case study provided by: Team Fermata, www.fermataco.com
Dear reader,
I work with the school leadership team as an advisor, collaborate with teachers as a pedagogical trainer, assist parents as a parenting counselor, and engage one-on-one with students as a personal guide and mentor. This weekly newsletter shares what I read, learn, and experience.
3-2-1 Tuesdays with Ms. Niv is a newsletter you can subscribe to and enjoy your learning journey with me.
And Finally…
3-2-1 TUESDAYS WITH MS NIV
Issue #223, 15th October 2024
Am I avoiding this task in favor of less important activities?
Do I keep pushing this task to “later” without a concrete plan?
Am I feeling anxious or guilty about not starting or completing this task?
If your answer is yes to these questions, you know that you are procrastinating your important task. Want to understand this a little better? continue reading.
This is a free newsletter. If you like my content, please subscribe by entering your email ID here.
Three images of the week
Two Thoughts of the Week
“Only put off until tomorrow what you are willing to die having left undone”
― Pablo Picasso
“Time is an equal opportunity employer. Each human being has exactly the same number of hours and minutes every day. Rich people can’t buy more hours. Scientists can’t invent new minutes. And you can’t save time to spend it on another day. Even so, time is amazingly fair and forgiving. No matter how much time you’ve wasted in the past, you still have an entire tomorrow.”
― Denis Waitley
One Video of the Week
Tim Urban knows that procrastination doesn’t make sense, but he’s never been able to shake his habit of waiting until the last minute to get things done. In this hilarious and insightful talk, Urban takes us on a journey through YouTube binges, Wikipedia rabbit holes and bouts of staring out the window — and encourages us to think harder about what we’re really procrastinating on, before we run out of time.
Reading with Ms. Meenu: Tip of the week
Read Aloud Is a Great Pleasure:
When you love books as much as I do, you’re compelled to share them with anyone who will listen. Luckily for most educators they have an audience in their classroom every day. Read Aloud is an art to master by discussing various factors mentioned below. Reading Aloud should be a joyful celebration for all. For you, for your students and indirectly for the author and illustrator who toiled over each word and every image that lies on and between the covers of the book. In my mind a picture book is a piece of art created to be cherished and applauded right from the start, when your students are having a bad day – read aloud. If you need a break from a tough topic in Math – read aloud. When you just want to have fun with your kids – read aloud.
Always discuss the following pointers during a read aloud.
Book Title, Cover page, author and illustrator, book awards and learning target.
Comprehension conversations should include:
Before Reading:
· Notice the cover illustration
· Set a Purpose
· During Reading
· After reading
· Vocabulary words
· Other similar titles.
Keep Reading!
Meenu Gera
Consulting home and school librarian and reading guide.
Career guidance and placement strategies:
Nithin, a civil engineer from Mysuru, Karnataka, wasn’t enjoying his on-site job supervising construction work, especially dealing with the heat. He came to us for guidance on where to take his career next. What stood out about Nithin was how open he was to listening and reflecting on his options. He still wanted to stay in civil engineering but didn’t want to continue with supervision tasks.
After he took our career assessment, we discovered that his strengths were in design, with a strong interest in sustainability. Our career expert suggested that he could build a career in the sustainable development field, which sparked his interest. Nithin was excited about the idea and started looking into ways to build his skills in this area. He eventually found TERI’s Master’s program in Sustainable Development Practice, which was the perfect fit. Within a year, he was enrolled and ready to dive into this new chapter of his career.
Case study provided by: Team Fermata, www.fermataco.com
Dear reader,
I work with the school leadership team as an advisor, collaborate with teachers as a pedagogical trainer, assist parents as a parenting counselor, and engage one-on-one with students as a personal guide and mentor. This weekly newsletter shares what I read, learn, and experience.
3-2-1 Tuesdays with Ms. Niv is a newsletter you can subscribe to and enjoy your learning journey with me.
And Finally…
3-2-1 TUESDAYS WITH MS NIV
Issue #222, 8th October 2024
What are my core values and beliefs? What activities or subjects am I most passionate about? How do I define success for myself? What kind of person do I want to become? What are my strengths and weaknesses? How do my cultural background and experiences shape who I am? What relationships and communities are most important to me? How do I want to contribute to the world? What fears or insecurities hold me back? How do I handle challenges and setbacks?
What all aspects make my identity? Here are some thoughts to ponder upon as a student, teacher, parent and, as an individual.
This is a free newsletter. If you like my content, please subscribe by entering your email ID here.
Three images of the week
Two Thoughts of the Week
“I am no bird; and no net ensnares me: I am a free human being with an independent will.”
― Charlotte Brontë, Jane Eyre
“Most people are other people. Their thoughts are someone else’s opinions, their lives a mimicry, their passions a quotation.”
― Oscar Wilde, De Profundis
One Video of the Week
What is identity, and why is it so important? In this TEDx Talk, Sidney Muntean dives into her own personal experiences with identity, and why, ultimately, accepting ourselves is enough. Sidney Muntean is a junior studying Creative Writing at OCSA. She enjoys writing poetry, prose, screenplays, and hybrid forms. She is particularly interested in the intersections between varying creative art forms and believes that creativity is the best representation of humanity. Sidney is also passionate about teaching, as she holds creative writing workshops for children at her local library in addition to teaching English as a second language for children in Southeast Asia. When she’s not writing or teaching, Sidney can be found curled up with a book, off on a picnic, or dancing in the rain.
Reading with Ms. Meenu: Tip of the week
Establishing a Framework:
Think about yourself as a reader. You probably choose what you want to read for a variety of purposes. You have opportunities to read for long periods of time. You respond mostly through reflection, conversation, and collaboration. Sometimes you share your thinking and insights with others. In a reading workshop children have daily opportunities to learn how to do the same.
Reading workshop is a simple framework for teaching and learning that beautifully accommodates my beliefs about how children learn. A workshop format is based on the principles of time, choice, and response. It allows for in-depth techniques for teaching and learning. This format also provides flexibility and differentiation. Ultimately, it creates an independent reader.
Reading workshops give them strategies on what to read and how to reflect on it.
Since it is Dussehra Break here are some of the book recommendations about to read:
· The Secret Life of Trees (Butterfield 2020)
· Ten ways to hear snow (Camper 2021)
· Stick and stone (Ferry 2021)
· The Beeman (Krebs 2020)
· Planting the Wild Garden (Galbraith 2011)
Keep Reading!
Meenu Gera
Consulting home and school librarian and reading guide.
Career guidance and placement strategies:
Career Redesign for a Working Professional, 2017
Abbas is a civil engineer by qualification. He gained one year of on-site experience. Then, he transitioned to customer support at Amazon. Within two years, he was promoted to team lead. He approached us to plan his master’s degree in Business Analytics from Canada, seeking guidance on the process. A career counseling session was arranged with a Fermata expert.
During the session, Abbas expressed his desire to pursue a master’s in Business Analytics. He explained that he no longer wished to return to civil engineering. He did not enjoy the daily tasks of monitoring construction work, and he found the career growth uninspiring. However, he was uncertain whether Business Analytics was the right field for him.
The career expert advised Abbas to enroll in a short-term Business Analytics program. Pursuing higher education requires a significant investment of time. It also demands a substantial amount of money. The program would help him explore the field. It would give him a clearer understanding of its demands. The expert also provided a few options to choose from. After completing the foundational course, Abbas gained the clarity and confidence to pursue a career in Business Analytics. He then took the next step by identifying a suitable university and beginning his new journey.
Case study provided by:Team Fermata, www.fermataco.com
Student Speak:
What changes a person’s identity?
Is it our surroundings, relationships, behavior, or all of the above?
As people, we do not always realize how seriously these factors affect our behavior. The changes happen so slowly. By the time we even suspect something like this, we would have changed so much. We won’t be able to comprehend it on our own. Not everyone is fortunate to have others notice these important changes. They are often the ones who make those changes happen. If this happens later on in a person’s life, the consequences are amendable. This is because they can know their identity by looking back to the past. The past shows them what they are as an individual and guides them to their original self. But when it happens at a young age we don’t know our identity, therefore our potential, personality, self-knowledge, and discovery will all be dictated by our environment.
So how does this happen with young adults and on what scale does it affect them . as a student there are very few things that are expected grades, academic achievements, and sometimes extracurriculars. Simple enough right? Sure, when you write it down or hear it getting done it sounds easy but achieving it is anything but that. To them, the pressure directly or indirectly overwhelms everything else. They dedicate so much to it that they don’t realize it’s stripping away their childhood, a time when they should explore, live, and learn. Some people think the disabled or backbenchers have it the hardest. Believe it or not, toppers suffer the most. I know ironic right? How are the people who do everything they are supposed to do have it the hardest? Let me explain. This particular group of kids has been pleasing others their whole life. Whether it is because of peer pressure or anything else, they feel the need to achieve and please others so badly. They are willing to put their childhood in jeopardy to do so. Of course, some may gently have an interest in studies but the majority of them are directly or indirectly doing it because of the influence of others or because they think that is what the world expects them to do. When these children grow up 85% of them become introverts, depressed, and unsatisfied with their lives. This happens due to two main reasons. First, they don’t know who they are without their work. Second, they don’t know how to interact with others as they never allowed themselves that exposure at a young age. They don’t make friends because they become nervous when they meet unfamiliar people. This causes them to act closed off and not try to connect with others. All of this happens because they endure pressure as children. This pressure is initially put on them to become successful adults. Is this really the definition of success they are talking about? Sure they get huge respected jobs and high titles but at what cost? Is it worth losing everything just for a respected job and title?
Between the ages of 8 to 20, we humans are supposed to learn and explore. We make mistakes and, most importantly, find out who we are as a person. We discover where we stand in this world of ours. This is what shapes our identity that lasts us throughout our lives. We don’t get this exposure by sitting behind a book or taking exams. We get it by going out to play. We make mistakes, take risks, and finally face the consequences. We may think that getting good grades will give us a good job. However, it won’t land us the contentment that knowing who we are will bring. After all, in the end, people won’t remember you for how much you earned annually. They will remember you for what you do with that money and what that money did to you.
Likitha Aaradhya
Student of grade 7
Dear reader,
I work with the school leadership team as an advisor. I work with teachers as a pedagogical trainer and with parents as a parenting counselor. I engage one-on-one with students as a personal guide and mentor. I share what I read, learn, and experience with this weekly newsletter.
3-2-1 Tuesdays with Ms. Niv is a newsletter you can subscribe to and enjoy your learning journey with me.
And Finally…
3-2-1 TUESDAYS WITH MS NIV
Issue #221, 1st October 2024
- Why is this task important to me? Reflect on the personal significance or broader impact of completing the task.
- What specific outcome am I working towards? Clarify your end goal to give your efforts more direction and purpose.
- How will I feel after I’ve completed this task? Visualize the sense of accomplishment or relief to boost your motivation.
These questions can help refocus your energy and reconnect you with your reasons for taking on the task. Did you find the answers? Try them with yourself, your students, your fellow educators and check the outcome.
This is a free newsletter. If you like my content, please subscribe by entering your email ID here.
Three images of the week
Two Thoughts of the Week
“A small aim is a crime.”
― Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam, Former President of India
“All glory comes from daring to begin.”
― Ruskin Bond, Indian author.
One Video of the Week
You never know how much time you really have until you start to use it. Are you as efficient and productive as you can be? High school junior Yana Savitsky shares how the Pomodoro method changed the way she thinks and acts towards her work, allowing her to make the most of her time and achieve her goals. Yana Savitsky is a sophomore at Lake Forest High School. Taking rigorous academic courses at the AP and honors level, she is constantly flooded with strenuous assignments. Outside of academics, however, Yana has a passion for storytelling and helping others, whether it is visually, through the lens of a camera in New Media, or speaking out for social change and volunteering. Nonetheless, Yana seeks to efficiently and effectively complete her coursework, and even excel in it through maximizing her time with the Pomodoro Method, conveniently the topic of her TED talk.
Reading with Ms. Meenu: Tip of the week
Motivation to Read:
When we read aloud a favorite book to children, we are doing more than reading a good story. We are showing our love and enthusiasm for reading and learning. We are sharing our thinking and inviting children to join us, and we are encouraging and expecting students to do the same in their reading. Message is clear: I love reading; I know you will too. Parents sometimes wonder how children as young as six, seven and eight can sustain reading. They are curious how kids can read for forty-five to fifty minutes a day. But when children understand that they share in the responsibility for their learning, they are able to read for long stretches at a time. When they have a say in the book they read, they can read for long periods. When the tasks they are asked to complete have a meaning, they are able to read for long stretches at a time.
When children recommend books to each other, the message is clear. They are committed and motivated to read. When they share their thinking and learning at the end of their class, the message is clear. They are committed and motivated to read. When they want to learn to read a new book, the message is clear. They are committed and motivated to read.
Keep Reading!
Meenu Gera
Consulting home and school librarian and reading guide.
Career guidance and placement strategies:
Career Redesign
Rohit had been working in the insurance sector for over five years. However, he found little enjoyment in the role and wasn’t advancing up the corporate ladder. Seeking guidance on growing and finding fulfillment in his career, he reached out to us for help.
We began with a comprehensive career assessment, followed by an in-depth career counseling session. During our discussions, it became clear that Rohit had studied finance under pressure from his father. He did not enter this field out of his own interest. The assessments revealed that Rohit is a highly empathetic individual with natural qualities of servant leadership. However, his current role required a more aggressive and assertive approach, which didn’t align with his strengths or personality.
When redesigning career paths, we, as career experts, always consider the individual’s education and qualifications. We ensure that our guidance complements their background. In Rohit’s case, we advised him to explore opportunities in social venture funds. There, he could leverage both his financial expertise and his empathy to connect with social entrepreneurs. This new direction would allow him to thrive. He would be in a role better suited to his personality. He could also utilize his skills in finance.
Case study provided by:Team Fermata, www.fermataco.com
Dear reader,
I work with the school leadership team as an advisor. I work with teachers as a pedagogical trainer and with parents as a parenting counselor. I engage one-on-one with students as a personal guide and mentor. I share what I read, learn, and experience with this weekly newsletter.
3-2-1 Tuesdays with Ms. Niv is a newsletter you can subscribe to and enjoy your learning journey with me.
And Finally…
3-2-1 TUESDAYS WITH MS NIV
Issue #220, 24th September 2024
“How are you feeling today?” “What was the best part of your day so far?” “Is there anything that’s been worrying you lately?” “What made you smile or laugh recently?” “If you could change one thing about your day/week, what would it be?” “Who’s someone you really look up to, and why?” “What’s something you’re really proud of?” “When do you feel most like yourself?” “What’s a dream or goal you have for the future?” “Can you tell me about a time when you felt really happy/excited/scared?”
Some questions that you can ask your students and/or your own child as a teacher/parent more often. Questions that are more about emotions than about facts like what happened in school today? what did you do? what did you study? what did you do during lunch today?
More connected conversations happen when the conversation starts with emotion then followed by a practical one. Try it.
This is a free newsletter. If you like my content, please subscribe by entering your email ID here.
Three images of the week
Two Thoughts of the Week
“If you’re yelling you’re the one who’s lost control of the conversation.” Taylor Swift
“Body language is a very powerful tool. We had body language before we had speech, and apparently, 80% of what you understand in a conversation is read through the body, not the words.” Deborah Bull
One Video of the Week
In a world of increasing complexity but decreasing free time, the role of the trusted ‘explainer’ has never been more important. Charles Duhigg is a literal prizewinner in the field and won the Pulitzer Prize for Explanatory Reporting for his team’s series of articles in the New York Times explaining the (not always wonderful) impact of Apple and big tech on the global economy. He’s also the author of the massive bestseller, The Power of Habit. Charles joined us in Manchester to discuss his latest research and book on Supercommunicators which strikes us as the perfect ‘meta’ topic for a TEDx event. We can all appreciate the incredible power of communication. But while we’re all trying to communicate, some of us clearly do it better than others. Why? According to Charles’ latest work, supercommunicators understand that whenever we speak, we’re actually participating in one of three conversations: practical (What’s this really about?), emotional (How do we feel?), and social (Who are we?). If you don’t know what kind of conversation you’re having, you’re unlikely to connect. “Supercommunicators” know the importance of recognizing—and then matching—each kind of conversation and how to hear the complex emotions, subtle negotiations, and deeply held beliefs that color so much of what we say and how we listen. He says that our experiences, our values, our emotional lives—and how we see ourselves and others—shape every discussion, from who will pick up the kids to how we want to be treated at work. Learn why some people are able to make themselves heard, and to hear others, so clearly. Charles Duhigg is a Pulitzer Prize-winning investigative reporter and the author of the international bestsellers The Power of Habit and Smarter Faster Better. His works have been translated into over 45 languages. He is a former journalist for the Los Angeles Times and New York Times and currently writes for The New Yorker magazine. He is a winner of the National Academies of Sciences, National Journalism, and George Polk awards. A graduate of Harvard Business School and Yale College, he lives in California with his wife and two children.
Reading with Ms. Meenu: Tip of the week
Avid readers with engaged text: An engaging book can do wonders and that’s when an avid reader is born. What should we see when we are selecting a book?
· Engaging, characters
· Rich language
· Fascinating Illustrations
· Thought-provoking Themes
· Kid-Appealing Content
· Unique perspective
· Broadening Subjects
Sometimes we read to laugh, other times we read to learn and many times we read to ponder. We should try to choose books that address thought-provoking topics and are told from a child’s perspective. Select books that will broaden your student’s horizons because you know about your learners’ backgrounds, interests, and cultures. With this information in mind, we should choose texts that extend the learning beyond the classroom walls.
Keep Reading!
Meenu Gera
Consulting home and school librarian and reading guide.
Career guidance and placement strategies:
Navigating Between Law and Medicine, Batch of 2029
Student X approached us in Grade 10, seeking guidance on choosing between a career in law or medicine. Through a comprehensive career assessment and counseling session, we identified that she had the potential to excel in both fields.
We guided her through a detailed analysis of the pros and cons of each career path. This helped her make an informed decision. A key consideration was her mother’s established medical practice, which provides a significant advantage if she pursues medicine. At the same time, the student demonstrated strong critical thinking and analytical skills, making law a viable option as well.
Her parents recognized her academic drive and passion for learning. They decided to transition her from an international curriculum to a national curriculum in grade 6. Given her motivation and academic inclination, the national curriculum proved to be a better fit.
With our facilitation and guidance, the student ultimately chose to pursue a career in medicine. She performed exceptionally well in the NEET exam and is now beginning her journey at Vydehi Institute of Medical Sciences.
Case study provided by:Team Fermata, www.fermataco.com
Dear reader,
I have been a research scientist, a journalist, and an educator for over 3 decades. I read and, I write. With this weekly newsletter, I share what I read, learn, and, experience. I am an advisor and mentor with students, parents, and teams of teachers. They are from K-12 schools, higher education institutions, and ed-tech organizations.
3-2-1 Tuesdays with Ms. Niv is a newsletter you can subscribe to and enjoy your learning journey with me.
And Finally…
3-2-1 TUESDAYS WITH MS NIV
Issue #219, 17th September 2024
What happens when you pick a book for yourself and/or your child and/or your student?
Here are some that I have found helpful:
What are our interests and preferences? For yourself: Think about genres, themes, or subjects you enjoy. For your child: Consider their favorite topics, characters, or types of stories.
What reading level is appropriate? For yourself: Reflect on the complexity and challenge you’re seeking. For your child: Choose books that match or slightly exceed their current reading ability to encourage growth.
What is the purpose of reading this book? Are you reading for entertainment, learning, or personal growth? For your child: Is it for education, improving reading skills, or simply for fun?
This is a free newsletter. If you like my content, please subscribe by entering your email ID here.
Three images of the week
Two Thoughts of the Week
“One glance at a book and you hear the voice of another person, perhaps someone dead for 1,000 years. To read is to voyage through time.” – Carl Sagan
“When I look back, I am so impressed again with the life-giving power of literature. If I were a young person today, trying to gain a sense of myself in the world, I would do that again by reading, just as I did when I was young.” – Maya Angelou
One Video of the Week
Speaking is already in our genes. But reading is not. Until about 100 years ago most people didn’t do it all. When we read fiction especially, we create new pathways in our brain. Reading 30 pages of fiction every night, gets the pathways thicker and thicker. Our brain needs a workout just like our body. Rita Carter is a writer, broadcaster and journalist who specializes in the workings of the human brain.
Her books include the first layman’s guide to neuroscience: Mapping the Mind, which has been translated into 14 languages. For seven years she presented London’s nightly news programme, “Thames News” , and has written for magazines and newspapers throughout the world, including the London Times, Telegraph, Guardian and New Scientist. She has a deep interest in bringing art and science together and is a Patron at the influential London-based Foundation “Art and Mind”. Rita Carter is a writer, broadcaster and journalist who specializes in the workings of the human brain. Her books include the first layman’s guide to neuroscience: Mapping the Mind, which has been translated into 14 languages.
For seven years she presented London’s nightly news programme, “Thames News” , and has written for magazines and newspapers throughout the world, including the London Times, Telegraph, Guardian and New Scientist. She has won many awards for her work, including, on three occasions, the Medical Journalists Association award for excellence and she holds an Honorary PhD in Brain science from Leuven University – one of Europe’s oldest academic institutions
Reading with Ms. Meenu: Tip of the week
Who is a READER? What does a reader do? Where does a reader read?
In my opinion, this is what I have observed about a reader and their reading habits:
· Talks about books and ideas.
· Recommends books to others.
· Ask questions about the stories.
· Read with friends.
· Trades books with each other.
· Points to the words as they read.
· Reread books.
· Buys books.
· Sounds out words.
· Read out loud.
· Use a bookmark.
· Finish one book and start another one.
· Write on sticky notes and stick them in the book.
· Look at the pictures and read the little words under them.
· Read really fast.
· Reads, predicts and connects.
· Look up for a word’s meaning.
Where does a reader read?
· In bed.
· Under a tree.
· On the porch.
· Up in a tree house.
· Under the covers.
· Outside the doctor’s office.
· On an airplane.
· In a bubble bath.
Try to use all these strategies to become an avid reader!
Keep Reading!
Meenu Gera
Consulting home and school librarian and reading guide.
Career guidance and placement strategies:
Published Author, Batch of 2029
Her journey with us began in 2023 when she expressed interest in writing a research paper. At the time, she was in Grade 11 at Alma Mater School, Jodhpur, Rajasthan, India. Passionate about women’s development, she decided to focus on menstrual health after several brainstorming sessions.
As her research progressed, her guide suggested she transform the paper into a book instead of just a research project. Although this meant more work, she embraced the idea enthusiastically, eager to invest the extra time and energy required to author a book.
Over the course of 6-7 months, her dedication paid off, and she successfully published her book, now available on Amazon. Titled HER: Health, Empowerment, and Respect, the book explores the role of technology in bridging gaps in healthcare awareness and promoting sustainable menstrual hygiene practices among women in Rajasthan.
Case study provided by:Team Fermata, www.fermataco.com
Dear reader,
I have been a research scientist, a journalist, and an educator for over 3 decades. I read and, I write. With this weekly newsletter, I share what I read, learn, and, experience. At the same time, I engage with students, parents, and teams of teachers across K-12 schools, higher education institutions, and ed-tech organizations.
3-2-1 Tuesdays with Ms. Niv is a newsletter you can subscribe to and enjoy your learning journey with me.
And Finally…
3-2-1 TUESDAYS WITH MS NIV
Issue #218, 10th September 2024
Do I inspire and motivate others?
Do I naturally encourage and support my peers to achieve their goals or work together towards a common purpose?
Am I good at listening and understanding different perspectives?
Do I take time to listen to others’ opinions and ideas, even when they differ from mine, and try to find solutions that benefit the group?
Can I stay calm and make decisions under pressure?
When faced with challenges or conflicts, do I remain composed, think critically, and guide the situation toward a positive outcome?
These questions focus on self-awareness, empathy, and decision-making, which are some of the core aspects of leadership.
Are you a leader? are you nurturing a young leader in your child and/or student as a teacher and/or educator? Go ahead and think if you would like to do so and what will that look like.
This is a free newsletter. If you like my content, please subscribe by entering your email ID here.
Three images of the week
Two Thoughts of the Week
“Young people must have their voices heard at all times. We cannot not be passive participants in the conversations about our future. We must get active and create the future the way we want it.”
― Edem Agbana
“Serving my generation with excellence will in turn mean my generation can lead with excellence.”
― Onyi Anyado
One Video of the Week
Leadership isn’t a title; it’s a verb that requires action, says youth empowerment advocate Mohan Sivaloganathan. Drawing on his experience as the CEO of a nonprofit, he shares surprising lessons on adaptability and accountability, showing why truly effective leaders listen to the voice of younger generations.
Reading with Ms. Meenu: Tip of the week
Literacy Trails: Trails take us somewhere new
With last week’s topic continuation let’s know deeper about trails of application and practice. We should try to design a trail for the application or practice of new ideas or skills. Like some of the learning experiences, trails of application and practice can be as simple as moving indoor classroom activities outdoors onto an asphalt play area, sidewalk or existing path or design one that is linear, serpentine or a loop. With your bucket of chalk and blacktop area or path, invite your students to apply and practice some of their literacy learning. You’ll quickly figure out the range of possibilities, but here are a few sensory trails, curricular paths, concept paths, word pattern paths and book trails to try as you launch your own.
Make a trail for book retelling or sharing: If you ask your students to do retellings, challenge them to retell the story on a path.
Use stones or signs with literary elements to prompt chalk responses from readers about their current books. Nonfiction could include types of nonfiction interesting facts test features.
Keep Reading!
Meenu Gera
Consulting home and school librarian and reading guide.
Career guidance and placement strategies:
Allied Career in Biology, Class of 2027
Student X initially enrolled in NEET coaching during grade 11 with aspirations of pursuing a career in medicine. However, the student faced difficulties in physics, and her parents were concerned about her level of preparation and the likelihood of achieving a competitive NEET score. As a backup plan, they approached us to explore alternative career paths in allied fields.
We guided her through a variety of career options beyond medicine and provided mentoring. As expected, her NEET score fell short of the admission requirements. Nevertheless, the student expressed a strong desire to try again, committing to a year of focused preparation. Despite her renewed efforts, she began experiencing heightened stress, which affected her eating habits, disrupted her sleep, and caused significant anxiety.
Recognizing the impact on her well-being, the student decided to discontinue NEET preparation and instead pursue a B.Sc. in Psychology at Amity University, Bangalore.
As career experts, our role is to support students in striving towards their goals while also helping them reassess and adjust their paths when necessary. We work closely with students to ensure they not only pursue their ambitions but also maintain their mental and physical health along the way.
Case study provided by:Team Fermata, www.fermataco.com
Dear reader,
I have been a research scientist, a journalist, and an educator for over 3 decades. I read and, I write. With this weekly newsletter, I share what I read, learn, and, experience. At the same time, I engage with students, parents, and teams of teachers across K-12 schools, higher education institutions, and ed-tech organizations.
3-2-1 Tuesdays with Ms. Niv is a newsletter you can subscribe to and enjoy your learning journey with me.
And Finally…
3-2-1 TUESDAYS WITH MS NIV
Issue #217, 3rd September 2024
Happy Teachers Day, dear fellow educators. Here are three big questions we can ask ourselves to reiterate whether we are being the teachers our students deserve.
Am I effectively communicating the material in a way that students can understand?
Good teachers can break down complex topics, use relatable examples, and ensure their explanations are clear and accessible to their students.
Am I creating an engaging and supportive learning environment?
Effective teachers foster a classroom culture where students feel comfortable participating, asking questions, and taking risks. They make learning interactive and fun.
Am I tailoring my teaching to meet the diverse needs of my students?
Great teachers recognize that students have different learning styles, backgrounds, and needs. They adapt their methods to reach all students and help them succeed.
This is a free newsletter. If you like my content, please subscribe by entering your email ID here.
Three images of the week
Two Thoughts of the Week
“Good teachers are the ones who can challenge young minds without losing their own.” –Unknown
“Teachers have three loves: love of learning, love of learners, and the love of bringing the first two loves together.” –Scott Hayden
One Video of the Week
In this talk, Gregory Chahrozian delves into the profound impact of teachers and explores how their character and qualities have the potential to shape students’ lives. Through personal experiences and thought-provoking stories, he reveals the untold insights about the transformative power of educators that goes far beyond what they teach.
Gregory Chahrozian joined the American University of Armenia as an adjunct lecturer in the Fall of 2020. Gregory holds a Master’s Degree in Teaching and a Bachelor’s Degree in Science from The University of Sydney. He majored in Microbiology and Genetics and Science Education. He has spent the last twenty years teaching Secondary education students. During that time, his leadership roles included Head of Curriculum and Head of Science Faculty. He is keen to share his educational experience and be part of the education revolution here in Armenia, focusing on Curriculum and Assessment development. He recently repatriated to Armenia from Australia.
Reading with Ms. Meenu: Tip of the week
Literacy Trails: Trails take us somewhere new
With last week’s topic continuation let’s know deeper about trails of application and practice. We should try to design a trail for applying or practicing new ideas or skills. Like some learning experiences, trails of application and practice can be as simple as moving indoor classroom activities outdoors onto an asphalt play area, sidewalk, or existing path or designing one that is linear, serpentine, or a loop. Invite your students to apply and practice some of their literacy learning with your bucket of chalk and blacktop area or path. You’ll quickly figure out the range of possibilities, but here are a few sensory trails, curricular paths, concept paths, word pattern paths, and book trails to try as you launch your own.
Make a trail for book retelling or sharing: If you ask your students to do retellings, challenge them to retell the story on a path.
Use stones or signs with literary elements to prompt chalk responses from readers about their current books. Nonfiction could include types of nonfiction interesting facts test features.
Keep Reading!
Meenu Gera
Consulting home and school librarian and reading guide.
Career guidance and placement case study:
Research Journey for a School Student
Student X hails from Alma Mater School in Jodhpur, the second-largest city in Rajasthan. Her journey with us began in Grade 10 when the school engaged us to provide our comprehensive three-step career counseling process.
Additionally, the school invited our research experts to conduct a 10-hour training session on research methodology. This immersive experience not only equipped Student X with essential research skills but also ignited her passion to explore a complex and socially significant topic: “Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion.”
Over the past six months, Student X has demonstrated remarkable dedication and progress. She has successfully completed an in-depth literature review and developed a research questionnaire. She is now in the final stages of conducting primary research and is on track to complete her research paper by October 2024, with the aim of publication.
Our role as career experts extends beyond traditional guidance; we strive to inspire young adults like Student X to engage in experiential learning. By nurturing their research and employability skills, we prepare them for meaningful internships and successful transitions to university life.
Case study provided by:Team Fermata, www.fermataco.com
Dear reader,
I have been a research scientist, a journalist, and an educator for over 3 decades. I read and, I write. With this weekly newsletter, I share what I read, learn, and, experience. At the same time, I engage with students, parents, and teams of teachers across K-12 schools, higher education institutions, and ed-tech organizations.
3-2-1 Tuesdays with Ms. Niv is a newsletter you can subscribe to and enjoy your learning journey with me.
And Finally…
Nivedita Mukerjee 