Monday, June 23, 2008

Student who has not availed leave for the past 15 years!

Ms S.Saranya, an engineering college student in Erode, Tamil Nadu, has not availed a single day’s leave from Standard I to her present engineering degree course. Naturally, she has been one of the best students throughout..

Our hearty congrats to her!

Courtesy: ‘Dinamalar’, Tamil daily, June 23, 2008
Grateful thanks to Dinamalar.
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Thursday, June 19, 2008

How to Improve Your Writing Skills


from wikiHow - The How to Manual That You Can Edit

Thinking about becoming the next Ernest Hemingway? Or Stephen King? It takes a great deal of practice, planning, experience of the world and talent.

Steps


  1. Write down ideas for your writing, subtitles, or even topic. (It's best to do all of this unless you're given a topic!)
  2. Narrow down your list to important facts and details so you have your set planned.
  3. Write an outline.
  4. By now you should have basically your whole story planned. If not: make an additional outline, edit your work, add some brainstorm ideas, or make an idea web.
  5. You're now ready to start your "sloppy copy," otherwise known as your first draft! Begin by writing down an essay-looking model from which to work.
  6. Revise your work with another color.
  7. Edit! Look in the dictionary to check your spelling and look in the thesaurus to vary your word choices and make your written voice more interesting.
  8. Read your new draft aloud to anyone and accept any feedback. Doing this aloud will just let you know whether it needs some work. If you got ahead of yourself and forgot letters or punctuation, you will immediately realize it. Add any changes in a third color.
  9. Do your second draft. Do not skip lines. Write in "essay form."
  10. If you are happy with the essay now, you can turn it in for credit/publishing, after editing for spelling and grammar. If you're not, do steps 6, 7, and 8 again.


Tips


  • Make a mnemonic device to help you remember things you often forget.
  • Similes and metaphors are fun to use!
  • Read books, newspapers, and magazines to help you find interesting facts you could use in your writing.
  • The info sources are for finding info about a "knowledge essay".
  • Teachers admire people who work hard instead of racing to finish the essay at the last minute.
  • If you are going to use a computer, write out your story or essay by hand first, then type it on a computer. Writing by hand prepares you for essay tests. It also encourages very different ways of thinking; computers can tend to make work look more "finished" or "official" than it really is.
  • Use complete words and sentences. An essay or story is not a chatroom.
  • Good writers read a lot. Read all the time: magazines, novels, the paper, anything. Reading a wide range of material increases your vocabulary and gives you a sense of what you're trying to achieve.
  • Just have fun while writing. Writing shouldn't be torture, it is a skill.


Warnings


  • Be careful to stay on topic. If you are writing about something important, you may find that your main message becomes buried under trivial stuff. This makes editing particularly important. Depending on your topic and form of writing, you may find it helpful to include subtitles. Subtitles may keep you focused and may help readers skip material that they do not necessarily need to read. If you have a habit of going off topic, look at each paragraph. Does the paragraph contain just one main idea? You may have information that is irrelevant or belongs somewhere else in the paper. Also be sure to use transition words. Adverbs such as “however,” “therefore,” and “finally” can make your writing easier to follow and more pleasing to the ear.
  • Be sure that your writing is well organized! Poorly organized writing may not read well and may even confuse your readers. As you go from paragraph to paragraph, check for cohesion. Try to put your paragraphs into some kind of logical order. Oftentimes, you will do well to save the best for last. In a persuasive essay, try to save your best argument for last. In a feature article, save the most interesting information for the end (or the beginning).
  • Writing takes patience.
  • Use synonyms with care. There is no quicker way to sound ignorant than to use a word as the wrong part of speech or in the wrong context. Always look up words in the dictionary and make sure you understand their meaning before using them. Also consider connotations of words and know the importance of good word choice.
  • Do not plagiarize! Realize that your references are very important in essays. They even lend credibility to your research. If you are writing something for a writing class, you may want to ask your teacher how to cite your references because there are many different styles. Be careful how you use words and phrases from the original text. You may need to use quotation marks around certain words that you borrow from the original, depending on how common the words are.


Things You'll Need


  • A dictionary
  • A thesaurus
  • Lots of paper - legal pads (long-sized & yellow color) work well
  • Pens (in various colors)
  • An encyclopedia
  • Info sources
  • A writer's guide (optional)
  • A writing workbook for practice (optional)
  • A computer (for the final draft)
  • Reading material (optional)


Related wikiHows





Article provided by wikiHow, a collaborative writing project to build the world's largest, highest quality how-to manual. Please edit this article and find author credits at the original wikiHow article on How to Improve Your Writing Skills. All content on wikiHow can be shared under a Creative Commons license.

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How to Improve Your Reading Skills


from wikiHow - The How to Manual That You Can Edit

Many people have trouble with reading. Reading is a process of the brain where you look at symbols on a page, and your mind sees the patterns of characters and understands the meaning in them. Here are a few steps and tips to get started.

Steps


  1. Find some easy reading material. Find a children's book or a newspaper article.
  2. Sound out each letter as best you can and you will notice they form some sort of word. Some letters fit together. For example, "th" is not pronounced as t + h, but rather as one unit. This is called a 'phoneme'.
  3. Find a place to read where you can concentrate. This may be someplace secret where no one will bother you, or simply your home at a time when it is quiet.
  4. Begin your reading by looking at the pictures, or listening to the music to get a feel for what you are going to be reading about.
  5. Start with titles, names, or other large print items that you may know.
  6. Read as much as you are able. When you start getting bored or need a break, take one. Reading should be fun and enjoyable, don't force it. After your break, return to where you were, and continue.
  7. Reread the material. It is okay to reread something if you do not understand it fully the first time.


Tips


  • Standing works better for some people. Some read while walking on a treadmill or a track, exercising both the body and mind!
  • While most people disagree with this, most things you need to know are in books. Therefore it is wise when you are comfortable reading general material to increase your reading speed as soon as possible. A good guide to this is Wade E. Cutler's Triple Your Reading Speed.
  • Use a spreadsheet creatively. ( spreadsheets and not word processors) Engage in a lively dialog, spend time making sure that you get the gist, make it entertaining.
  • Remember that you should read at your own pace.


Warnings


  • Sitting in one position for a long time can make you sleepy or even injured. Make sure you stretch before and during reading to keep awake and comfortable.
  • Reading in the dark can be potentially damaging to one's eyesight, so ensure that you have sufficient lighting before reading.


Things You'll Need


  • Reading material: book, magazine, song lyrics, newspaper, etc. Try to pick something interesting, otherwise you will most likely be using your reading material for a pillow.
  • Table or other place to put your reading material. This could also be your lap.
  • Comfortable place to sit. Find a quiet place without distraction.


Related wikiHows




Sources and Citations





Article provided by wikiHow, a collaborative writing project to build the world's largest, highest quality how-to manual. Please edit this article and find author credits at the original wikiHow article on How to Improve Your Reading Skills. All content on wikiHow can be shared under a Creative Commons license.

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Wednesday, June 18, 2008

How to Impress Your Friend's Parents


from wikiHow - The How to Manual That You Can Edit

A great first impression is always important. If you are a child or a teenager, you want to make a good first impression on your friend's parents so that they trust you enough to hang out with their son or daughter.

Steps


  1. Greet them. Shaking hands and saying a polite hello is a good start.
  2. Engage in a conversation. Everyone likes being talked to. Try starting off with a current event in the news. Remember to be very careful with touchy subjects such as politics and religion. Even a topic like history can make the conversation awkward if someone interprets particular events differently. Try to get a sense of their general beliefs before attempting potentially hazardous threads of chit-chat. Weather, sports, and hobbies are generally safe. Try to be broad at first, find something they connect well with, and focus on it. For instance, if you mention you enjoy athletics, name any number of athletics you may potentially be interested in. Chances are, they've enjoyed it themselves at one point or another. If it becomes apparent they hold some belief that is particularly offensive or distasteful, so long as it is not directly insulting to you personally, bite your tongue, be tolerant of their perspectives. You're just trying to keep on their good side, not be their best friends.
  3. Always be polite. Remember your pleases and thank-yous. If you are invited to stay for dinner or a sleepover (NEVER invite yourself to anything), say thank you when offered and when you leave. After dinner, clear your plate. Ask if it should go in the sink or dishwasher. Once finished with that, Sit back down and maybe when your friend is done, politely ask to be excused.


Tips


  • A nice smile can win pretty much anyone over.
  • These steps can also work for boyfriend's/girlfriend's parents.
  • Dress neatly. You don't have to abandon your style, but do tone it down a bit and comb your hair, if you know in advance you'll be meeting somebody's parents.


Warnings


  • Never curse or talk badly about someone in front of them. It's better not to do that anyway whether you're with the parents or not.


Related wikiHows





Article provided by wikiHow, a collaborative writing project to build the world's largest, highest quality how-to manual. Please edit this article and find author credits at the original wikiHow article on How to Impress Your Friend's Parents. All content on wikiHow can be shared under a Creative Commons license.

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How to Be Confident and Popular in Private School


from wikiHow - The How to Manual That You Can Edit

You can be yourself and still be well-liked. Here's how!

Steps


  1. Practicing good hygiene is crucial to being well-liked.
  2. Make sure your hair is neat or gorgeously-messy. It's recommended that you wash and condition your hair every night.
  3. Wash your body with a good-smelling body wash and exfoliate about twice a week.
  4. Wear a light perfume or some lotion to make yourself smell really good and clean. Deodorant is a must!
  5. Usually private schools have strict dress codes and usually uniforms. Add your own accessories! Tie colorful shoelaces on your shoes or add cute headbands or paint your nails because usually a bunch of colors are allowed. Show as much of your own individuality that's allowed.
  6. Getting good grades and being involved is considered cool. Private schools take education so seriously. Getting A's and B's are really good because people see you as an easy person to talk to.
  7. Get involved! Getting into clubs and sports are a great way to meet people. Plus, it's a sure fire way to get to know people with your interests.
  8. Be outgoing. By going up to a person and saying,"Do you have algebra 1 next period?" they'll admire your confidence. Plus, you might have someone to sit by that period. Keep this up and you'll have a group by lunchtime.


Tips


  • Preppiness is common in private schools. Lacoste is a popular prep brand. So is Ralph Lauren.
  • A lot of girls wear pearls because they're really pretty and simple. You can go to Claire's if you don't want to pay for real ones.
  • Be outgoing and be yourself, most importantly.
  • If your private school is apart of a religion make sure to express great interest in that religion to gain acceptance.


Warnings


  • Don't try to be someone you're not, because you know yourself the most. And most likely you will become friends with people you aren't even close to liking.
  • Also beware of becoming spoiled!


Related wikiHows





Article provided by wikiHow, a collaborative writing project to build the world's largest, highest quality how-to manual. Please edit this article and find author credits at the original wikiHow article on How to Be Confident and Popular in Private School. All content on wikiHow can be shared under a Creative Commons license.

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Monday, June 16, 2008

e-Libraries in District HQ

The Haryana government is setting up e-libraries at all the district headquarters towns to provide educational reading material on the Internet to readers.

For detailed article on Digital Library from Wikipedia: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Digital_library

Courtesy: The Hindu, Madurai, June 14, 2008 (Newscape)
Grateful thanks to The Hindu and Wikipedia.

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How to Make a Study Space


from wikiHow - The How to Manual That You Can Edit

Without a suitable study space, you're most likely to get no work done. You have to clear yourself of distractions and clutter in order to ace that test.

Steps


  1. Decide where you work best. Do you prefer working in busier, louder environments or calmer, quieter places?
    • If you work best with some noise, claim a permanent place in your family kitchen or living room. Just be sure to stay close to where most people are, but don't be in the same room as everyone. You don't want too much noise.
    • Or maybe your preference are quieter areas. In that case, study inside your room. Make sure to minimize all distractions by telling your family to leave your room undisturbed. And stay away from that TV and MP3!

  2. Be comfortable, but alert . Try to station your study space at a desk. Soft couches and beds can be comfy, but you'll probably end up catching some Z's, instead of studying.
    • Don't dim the lights. That'll just increase the risk of falling asleep. Turn on as much lights as possible. Not only will you be less likely to fall asleep, but you can see everything nice and clearly with proper lighting. After all, it'll be hard to read, in the dark. So, it's recommended that you turn on an ordinary lamp and an overhead desk light.
    • Choose a table that's the right size for you. Make sure you can rest your elbows easily on it. It should size up to somewhere between your waist and below your ribcage when you sit down to it.
    • Pick a simple chair that can not roll or rotate. You'll probably end up screwing around with one of those nifty, but tempting chairs. Also, get a comfortable chair that you can't sleep on easily. So sofas are out. And make sure you can put your feet flat on the ground while sitting on it.
    • Computers are great for studying, but make sure to keep it at a safe distance. Keep it at least a foot away from you. Your eyes will thank you later.

  3. Keep school supplies handy. Make sure to have a ruler, pencils, pencil sharpeners, lead (if you have mechanical pencils), erasers, paper, and highlighters at your study spot.
  4. Personalize your study space. Have a cork board hanging near your homework spot. Tack pictures of your friends, family, and pets near by. Who knows? Your good luck charm just might give you inspiration with your homework!
  5. Organize your space by stocking up on storage. Place all of your school supplies in a box. It's also important to organize your notes in a folder. Keep a folder for each subject.


Tips


  • Your Study Place does you little good if you cannot use it when you need it. If you are using a Study Place that you must share with others for any reason, work out a schedule so that you know when you can use it.
  • It is important to have uninterrupted study time. You may have to hang a DO NOT DISTURB sign on the door or take the phone off the hook.
  • Research shows that most students study best in a quiet environment. If you find that playing a stereo or TV improves your mood, keep the volume low. But try to plug out the tv so even if you try it won't work. And if you want music, have a CD that has no words. Classical, electronic or post-rock instrumental music might be good. It should be calm and relaxing, so it doesn't distract you too much.
  • Be sure your Study Place includes reference sources and supplies such as pens and pencils, paper, ruler, calculator, and whatever else you might need. If you use a computer for your schoolwork, it should be in your Study Place .
  • While working on an assignment or studying for a test, use a desk or table that is large enough to hold everything you need. Allow enough room for writing and try to avoid clutter. And be organized .
  • You need enough room to store your study materials. Be sure you have enough storage space to allow you to keep your desktop or other work surface clear of unnecessary materials that can get in the way.
  • A chair that is not comfortable can cause discomfort or pain that will interfere with your studying. A chair that is too comfortable might make you sleepy. Select a chair in which you can sit for long periods while maintaining your attention. And so your butt doesn't hurt.
  • The amount of light you need depends on what you are doing. The important thing is that you can clearly see what you need to see without any strain or discomfort.
  • If your Study Place is too warm, you might become sleepy. If it is too cold, your thinking may slow down and become unclear. Select a temperature at which your mind and body function best.
  • Not only is it important to have a proper study space, but in order to study at your best make sure to take precise notes.


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Article provided by wikiHow, a collaborative writing project to build the world's largest, highest quality how-to manual. Please edit this article and find author credits at the original wikiHow article on How to Make a Study Space. All content on wikiHow can be shared under a Creative Commons license.

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How to Speak Clearly


from wikiHow - The How to Manual That You Can Edit

Speaking clearly and efficiently proposing your ideas is a must in modern society.

Steps


  1. Practice enunciating your words. Usually, a pen put in the mouth, horizontally, will force you to enunciate your words more.
  2. Speak slower. You have no idea how helpful it is to give your words an extra second or two to fully come out of your mouth. Pausing also works, because pausing allows the person you're speaking to to digest all of the words you've just said.
  3. Practice your grammar. If your grammar is bad, your thoughts and ideas may not be percieved clearly.
  4. Learn some vocabulary. Learning the right words to say certain things is also very helpful.


Tips


  • Try listening to yourself using a voice-recorder. Usually, this will help you determine what you would need to work on.
  • When in a conversation, take some time to ask if the other person understands what you're trying to say. If she/he doesn't, try rephrasing what you just said.
  • Keep it simple. Sometimes, a simple explanation is all you need to speak clearly.


Warnings


  • When practicing with the pen to help you enunciate, don't choke on the pen. Make sure the pen is long enough to not move, slip, or fall into your mouth by accident. Remember to place your pen alongside your mouth horizontally of course, as this will be better for pronouncing certain syllables and won't cause you to choke or gag on the pen.
  • Don't over think it when you speak to others because you may end up making the situation worse. Try to be natural--think 'flowy' as you speak, not "what else/next" to say. Feel 'flowy', take good, relaxing breaths and think of an image that brings soothingness, like swimming in a heated swim pool at night or drinking refreshing smoothies, to dancing to a favorite song or reading your favorite book.


Things You'll Need


  • An understanding friend or family member to help you, and give you tips on what to practice.



Article provided by wikiHow, a collaborative writing project to build the world's largest, highest quality how-to manual. Please edit this article and find author credits at the original wikiHow article on How to Speak Clearly. All content on wikiHow can be shared under a Creative Commons license.

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How to Get over Being Lazy


from wikiHow - The How to Manual That You Can Edit

Being lazy sucks and is a really unhealthy way to live your life. Read below to learn how to quit being lazy.

Steps


  1. You can't expect this to happen overnight. It takes time, so be patient.
  2. Start with little things, such as cleaning. This way you can work your way up to bigger things like waking up at 5:00 am and running! ( I do it all the time now!)
  3. As soon as you wake up in the morning, just wash your face and freshen up. trust me you will feel 10 times better, and you will feel like doing so much more.
  4. If you are in school, do all assignments and projects right away. This will also cut down on stress. If you are working, don't stress over hours. Sometimes you are too lazy to go in early but if you get a schedule and wake up the same time every morning, you will feel so much less lazy and tired.
  5. Just do it! There isn't any cure for being lazy. The only way to overcome this is by setting your mind to it, and just do it.


Tips


  • When you have things to do, don't sit and wait another hour. get it done!
  • Don't watch so much tv, maybe one or two shows a day.
  • Read books, or even go outside for a walk with the dog. DO SOMETHING!
  • get enrolled in a sport or activity.


Warnings


  • If you get good at not being lazy, you might (after time) go back to your habits. so keep using these tips.


Related wikiHows





Article provided by wikiHow, a collaborative writing project to build the world's largest, highest quality how-to manual. Please edit this article and find author credits at the original wikiHow article on How to Get over Being Lazy. All content on wikiHow can be shared under a Creative Commons license.

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Friday, June 13, 2008

How To-51: How to Make Friends at a New School


from wikiHow - The How to Manual That You Can Edit

It's difficult to start attending a new school. Everything seems to be so strange, and you don't know which direction to go for your own classes. Making new friends can also be hard, because everyone seems to have made their own cliques. However, you can integrate into your new environment and have just as much fun as in your old school.

Steps

  1. Take a deep breath. You shouldn't be so nervous, you're going to a new school, not to the gallows. Remember that in your new school you will find kids your age. You're going to meet people like you there. Don't stare at others before you get to know them.
  2. Be yourself. Never change who you are to try and fit in. If your friends don't accept you for you, they're not really friends.
  3. Be hygienic. Nothing makes a worse first impression than a whiff of B.O. or bad breath that could knock someone over. Shower daily, wear deodorant, brush your teeth, and wash your hair . Designer clothes aren't everything, but look neat. It can make you seem friendlier and more approachable.
  4. Be inviting. A smile goes a long way. When you walk in the halls, don't hunch over your books or keep your eyes on the floor. Stick your chin up and make eye contact with other people. If you see someone you know, give a smile or say hi. Introduce yourself. Tell them your name and where your from. Ask a question: "What do you do for fun?" Chat about the new school: "Have you been here since kindergarten?"
  5. Make the first move. Anywhere, in the bathroom, near your locker, or at the water fountain, you can find someone that has things in common with you, all you need is to know how to approach them. Strike up a conversation, smile and compliment them, and, of course, introduce yourself and tell them where you came from! You never know where you can find a nice friend.
  6. Do something nice for someone. Save someone a seat. Say "hi" in the hall. Give congratulations for a job well done. Pay a compliment: "I like your backpack."
  7. Join after school activities you like. Choir or theater or hang around for a French club meeting, etc. Even if you don't know anyone there, you'll all share a common interest, and you can experience with different personalities from yours that have the same interest!
  8. Look for other people who are new to the school. You're probably not the only one and at the very least, you'll have one thing in common: you're both in an unfamiliar environment. The good news is, if you are starting at a new school in startup year, almost everyone is new! Since being new is something that you all have in common, making new friends shouldn't be that hard. Talk about your old school, your new school, your opinions, grades, teachers, etc.
  9. Don't sit at the back of the class where other people dont notice you! Try to sit in the middle where your around everyone and can make conversation.

Tips

  • Don't let people tell you you're a loser. Finding good friends is tough, and sometimes nearly impossible. But there are people who like you for you so you're never a loser. You just haven't found the right people yet.
  • If you're really having trouble, or are feeling depressed, then get some help. A little bit of counseling can make you feel ten times better and can improve your self confidence and social skills.
  • Quality over quantity. Don't automatically assume that the more friends you'll have, the happier you'll be. A few close friends can lead to richer relationships than a large but impersonal group.
  • There's someone out there looking for a friend just like you, don't be afraid to go up to someone and say: "Hi!" If they don't seem like your type, that's okay. There's tons of people out there who could be your best friend!
  • Join or form a study group. This is a quick way to make (potential) friends, establish and multiply your network, and get timely academic support.

Warnings

  • Don't try too hard. This really falls under the category of changing yourself in order to seem more attractive to others. Don't fake interest, or cling on to people you want to be friends with. Be natural and friendly, but don't overdo it.
  • Be careful, you don't want to make someone mad by going up and talking to them. If it looks like they are in a bad mood, it'd be a good idea to stay away!

Related wikiHows

Article provided by wikiHow, a collaborative writing project to build the world's largest, highest quality how-to manual. Please edit this article and find author credits at the original wikiHow article on How to Make Friends at a New School. All content on wikiHow can be shared under a Creative Commons license.

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Education Fair at Chennai

20 Varsities to take part in Education Fair –
Special Correspondent, The Hindu

First it was only the United States. Then came Singapore, Australia, the United Kingdom, and now the rest of the world troops in.

The number of Indian students studying abroad has grown rapidly over the years, and the country has become one of the major markets for international universities from America, West Asia, and the East.

Last week, The Hindu Education Plus partnered Singapore to organize a two-day education admissions fair, in which a dozen universities and premium institutes from the city state participated. Students and parents alike thronged the venue to know about the courses, facilities, fee structure, and the processes involved in admission.

Now, The Hindu Education Plus paints a larger canvas: 20 reputed universities from across the world will put up stalls and counsel students and parents about the opportunities they offer to study abroad. The event will take place at Hotel Taj Connemara on June 13 and 14 (Friday and Saturday).

At The Hindu Education Plus International Education Fair 2008, universities from the U.S., the U.K., Canada, Dubai, Singapore, Australia, New Zealand, and the Philippines, together with consultants, will offer students guidance.

What is more, counseling sessions will spread over the two days to provide specific information on courses, country familiarization, visa counseling (by officials of embassies and High Commissions), besides alumni speak presented by the British Council, the USEFI, the IDP, the Singapore Education Board and other organizations.

The State Bank of India, the main sponsor, will brief students about its attractive education loan options.

Radio One will be the radio partner and I ads and Icare events, the gift partner.

Entry is free. After a brief inaugural function at 10.30 a.m., the fair will be open to students after 11 a.m. on Friday.

Courtesy: The Hindu, Madurai, June 12, 2008.
Grateful thanks to The Hindu.
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"Provide Quality Education for All"

Nagercoil (Tamil Nadu): Activists of the Democratic Youth Federation of India, Kanyakumari unit, conducted a novel agitation by making use of "Thampattai" in front of Indian Overseas Bank on Wednesday to urge the Government to find out an early solution to their multiple point demands, including equal and quality education for all, educational assistance to all eligible students (higher education) etc.
Courtesy: The Hindu, Madurai, June 12, 2008
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Thursday, June 12, 2008

How To-50: How to Make Money (For Teenagers)


from wikiHow - The How to Manual That You Can Edit

Many things are expensive, but money is everywhere. There are many ways for a teenager to make money. You just have to work hard and work diligently.

Steps

  1. Work for someone else: this is the most popular way to make money even when you're an adult. In most countries, child labor laws limit the amount and type of work you can do, and the age at which you may begin. You will certainly be limited to after school hours, weekends and summers.
    • Get a job: the retail and food service industries are happy to hire teenagers at minimum wage, but look around and consider a call center or a hospital. You might enjoy a paper route, or you might find a job as a referee for a soccer league. See also How to get a job when you are only 16 and How to get a job when you are not yet 16
    • Sign up for a paid survey
    • Negotiate fees with your parents for extra chores around the house. Try to pick things they might hire a professional to do (like detail the car) and charge them half price. Ask your parents if you can clean the house each week instead of them or your housekeeper. Do your laundry and the dishes. This can be a weekly sum. Do the chores properly or your parents might not think it's worth their money. Parents are sometimes more willing to help out if they know what your plan is, so share all the details with them
    • Babysit
    • Walk dogs
    • Mow lawns for your neighbors. You can make a lot of money, but it's hard work and takes up a lot of Saturdays. Also consider the maintenance aspect in respect to the lawn mower itself - hours on motor, oil, spark plugs, blades if this is your parents mower. However, most parents will not care and just be thankful that you are out making money.
  2. Work for yourself
  3. Hire others to work for you. Hire all your friends to mow the neighbors' lawns. Sell tickets to a talent show featuring the most talented kids in your school.
  4. Put your money to work for you
    • Put your spare change in a jar. Remember, a little here and a little there can really add up to a lot. Put the jar somewhere where you can always see it, such as your bedside table or desk. This will help you remember to add change every time you see it.
    • Move all your money into a savings account where you can earn a good amount of interest. ING has a very good rate, check out their site.
    • Buy one share of stock.
  5. Win money: you usually have to be 18 to enter such contests, but keep your eyes open. There are a lot of companies giving away a lot of cash and prizes in an attempt to win you over as a loyal customer.

Tips

  • Don't lend people money unless they are trustworthy and you know they will pay you back. The fact that someone is your friend does not automatically make them trustworthy or reliable - sometimes, lending money to friends can be like gambling.
  • Try making flyers on your computer and hanging them on telephone poles. Some places will allow you to hang ads on a board of some kind. This can be very helpful. Be sure to add in your flyer how much you charge for each service; that way your customers know what to expect, and there aren't any surprises when it's time for you to be paid.
  • If you are able to make a product, sell the product for about 10-20% more than price of production.
  • Work for more than money; work to learn. Even flipping burgers presents opportunities; watch who they pick for management, how the workers are organized, anything. Rich people own businesses, they don't work for them. Money is temporary, knowledge is permanent.
  • Try to dress sensibly. This will help you look responsible and dedicated.
  • Organize your thoughts and keep a simple plan for making money. Trying to tackle too much can be very stressing and can be a hazard to your developing body.
  • Sometimes you can get work at a summer camp. This is useful because it's rewarding and doesn't interfere with school at all (unless you have a year-round school, of course).

Warnings

  • In the USA, don't put flyers in the mailbox; that is illegal in some places. Just tape the flyers to the outside of the mailbox or the front door of the house. You may put your flyers in the boxes intended for newspapers since the federal government does not regulate these.
  • Make sure you have permission for everything you choose to sell. You don't want to sell something your parents still want! Also, consider an objects personal value before you sell. It might only be worth $10, but if you would rather have it than the $10, then you should definitely keep it.
  • Do not forget that your main priority as a teenager is your education. Do not sacrifice schoolwork or homework for a paid job. Having money as a teenager is very nice, but your main goal is to get an education so you can get a good job and have money as an adult.
  • Don't be pushy when trying to get a job. People don't like to be told they have to hire you. Be nice, pleasant, and show the person you are seriously interested in working for them
  • Try to make sure that you do your job the best you can so that people will want to come back to you

Things You'll Need

  • A jar, container, or bank account (physical or online bank) to store your money

Related wikiHows

Article provided by wikiHow, a collaborative writing project to build the world's largest, highest quality how-to manual. Please edit this article and find author credits at the original wikiHow article on How to Make Money (For Teenagers). All content on wikiHow can be shared under a Creative Commons license.

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How To-49: How to Concentrate on Studies


from wikiHow - The How to Manual That You Can Edit

One of the most terrifying things on Earth is the period of time when one has to concentrate on nothing but that open textbook. How can you concentrate in a perfect way that won't affect your revision?

Steps

  1. Take out a piece of rough paper and list the rows from 1-10. Then, before you hit the books, brainstorm 10 'pros' on why you should concentrate. Don't even think about the 'cons', because you'll never come up with the 'pros' if you think about the 'cons'.
  2. Get everything you need for your revision. A cup of coffee? Candy? Your teddy bear? Put them within reach so you won't be strolling around the house, and then being distracted by that cartoon showing on TV.
  3. Make a timetable. You can't really concentrate if you read, read, and read again for 24 hours straight. The best thing is 30-60 minute periods with 5-10 minute breaks in between.
  4. Prepare a full set of rough paper, note sheets, stationary and files. Also, have your books and some reference titles nearby. Don't hop up in the middle of revision to get anything.
  5. If you can't seem to get yourself to study, think about what you'll do when you grow up, do you want to get a good job as a engineer or work in a dairy? and revise alot on your questions and buy books that help and are fun.
  6. Learn how to make mind-maps which can really help during revision and doing it with colour pencils and all will make it really fun.
  7. If you want to revise using the internet, make sure you know what website you
    are going to use. If you dont then you will spend most of your time trying to
    find a suitable site.

Tips

  • Have a bit of food with you. Or try to compete with your friend and study with them.
  • It helps to think about what you'll be doing if you flunk and get an "F" or under 20 marks. Think about this and it will compel (or "entice") you to do better.

Things You'll Need

  • Ribbon
  • Papers, files, stationery
  • Everything you need for revision.
  • A bottle of water or juice.
  • Concentration

Related wikiHows

Article provided by wikiHow, a collaborative writing project to build the world's largest, highest quality how-to manual. Please edit this article and find author credits at the original wikiHow article on How to Concentrate on Studies. All content on wikiHow can be shared under a Creative Commons license.

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Wednesday, June 11, 2008

Comedy of Errors:

Teaching children is a tough job. But the current challenge for Maharashtra’s education department is: ‘How to teach the Teachers?’ 90% of 1.25 lakh primary teachers (Class 1 to 7) in the state could not answer the questions in the English and Mathematics exercise books. This embarrassing revelation came when the State Council for Education Research and Training recently conducted a program to evaluate the performance of the teachers.

Courtesy: The Week, June 08, 2008 - Grateful thanks to The Week.
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Tuesday, June 10, 2008

How To-48: How to Pack for Your Overnight School Trip


from wikiHow - The How to Manual That You Can Edit

Going on a school trip? It's no problem. Unless it's overnight. Then you have to pack P.J.'s, clothes,hair products... it can get confusing. Read on to find out what to bring.

Steps

  1. Always make sure to check with teachers if it's okay to bring your Ipod,MP3,cell phone etc. You don't want it taken away.
  2. A few days before look at the weather forcast for the days your trip is on. If the weather is rainy, you'll need to bring a poncho, some rubber boots & some old clothes that it doesn't matter if they get muddy or wet. If it's sunny, be sure to bring sunglasses, sunscreen and lots of shorts and t-shirts. Also, always bring sweaters and long pants. (perferably not jeans) You never know when it might get cold out side. Bring a pair of good sneakers. And for pyjamas, bring some long pants and a few t-shirts. And always bring at least 2 extra paires of socks and 3 extra paires of underwear.
  3. For make-up, hair products, toiletries etc. bring them in a plastic bag. That way nothing will leake out all over the rest of your luggage. Pack one bottle of shampoo, conditioner if you'd like, a minimal amount of make-up, female sanitation products (even if you havn't started, just in case), a hair dryer if your allowed, hair brush, tooth brush, tooth paste & whatever else you use to get ready.
  4. For the trip there, if your allowed to use electronics, listen to your Ipod,MP3, play your Game Boy or whatever you brought. Also talk to friends. Play little games. Also if you want to make a carry on bag, it should include a pillow, games, Ipod, MP3 etc.

Tips

  • See if there is a packing list available. It will make packing less of a stress.
  • Charge all electronicis before the trip. There's nothing worse then watching everyone listen to their Ipods while your battery is dead. And bring the charger with you.

Warnings

  • Don't bring things you're not allowed to. You'll get caught and that will be no fun.

Things You'll Need

  • Back pack.
  • Clothing for each type of weather. It might change while you're there.
  • Suitcase.
  • Plastic bag with toiletries in it.

Related wikiHows

Article provided by wikiHow, a collaborative writing project to build the world's largest, highest quality how-to manual. Please edit this article and find author credits at the original wikiHow article on How to Pack for Your Overnight School Trip. All content on wikiHow can be shared under a Creative Commons license.

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Friday, June 6, 2008

How To-47: How to Survive a Very Difficult Class


from wikiHow - The How to Manual That You Can Edit

Surviving a difficult class is possible. Persevere and you will win through with these helpful steps.

Steps

  1. Do not quit. Even if you think you will never manage to do the work and are questioning your sanity at the time you signed up, just tell yourself what you will do when you finish the class. Like burn your book, or, if you're slightly more positive, make yourself a commemorative t-shirt.
  2. Don't put off the work. Yes, Lost may only run on Thursday nights, but that doesn't make your homework or test go away. If you let work build up on you, you'll sink under the pressure to catch up. Start homework a little after you get home from school, but if you can relax a little first it might be helpful. You'll be able to concentrate better and will feel refreshed to start your work.
  3. Make friends. If you don't understand something, forgot the homework, or just need to rant about your insane teacher, you'll need someone else in the class to talk to. Scope out the area around your desk and start a conversation with someone near you. Make friends with a neighbor across the row - even if you've never met before.
  4. Make friends with the teacher. Sometimes this is hard or downright impractical with the really mean teachers, but they usually are more human than they seem at first. Don't be an anti-teacher's pet; just try to be nice.

Tips

  • Study just a little bit too. Or, if needed, study a lot. Or Cram at the last minute. Or don't study at all.
  • If you're in the class for a reason (it's supposed to be a challenge, it's part of what you want to pursue in college, etc.) don't let anyone talk you out of taking it. If you give it a shot, you'll probably find that it gets easier as you go. And a class that pushes you will help you learn more than a class where you can pass by doing nothing and get an A by doing only a little.
  • If you are discouraged (or in desperation) just tell yourself that it's only a year. It's only a year. It's only a year.

Warnings

  • You might have to make sacrifices in your academic and personal life to get a good grade. For me, it was my free periods at school, some TV time, a little sleep, and pessimism.

Related wikiHows

Article provided by wikiHow, a collaborative writing project to build the world's largest, highest quality how-to manual. Please edit this article and find author credits at the original wikiHow article on How to Survive a Very Difficult Class. All content on wikiHow can be shared under a Creative Commons license.

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Thursday, June 5, 2008

How To-46: How to Start a Great School Year

The schools have re-opened. And here is an ideal and appropriate article for the season for the benefit of students from WikiHow.


from wikiHow - The How to Manual That You Can Edit

Do you want to leave all the troubles of last year's school year behind you and start fresh? How should you do it? Keep on reading and then....you'll know!

Steps

  1. Resolve that this is a fresh, brand new school year. You can just leave all of your troubles, bad grades, grudges, or fights behind. Start FRESH!
  2. Go school shopping for your school supplies. You will need a backpack, pencils, folders, etc. - all of the usual supplies. Buy the folders you like best. Dress them up with stickers or doodles. The more amusing your folders are to you, the more you will love to take them out and do your homework!
  3. Let people know by your actions that this is a fresh new you! Don't hunch over your books or shuffle with your head down while walking. Stand up straight and proud, walk tall, and let your books feel like they are in great hands! Be friendly in the hall, and say hi to your friends, and to new people you recognize from classes. If you are new, keep in mind that all the freshmen are new, too. You will all make new friends this year. Look for friendly people in class, at lunch, at your locker,(or if you don't have a locker, then at your desk). Having good friends will boost your confidence, and you will have a great time at school!
  4. Join some teams or clubs. Don't be scared. Everyone else is probably just as nervous as you are. If volleyball is really what you want to do, but all of your friends are into soccer, play volleyball anyhow - you'll make new friends on that team. You don't have to run with just one crowd all the time. Have friends in all sorts of places, so that you'll feel comfortable wherever you are.
  5. Take notes in class and listen to the teacher! You may have heard this a lot of times before, but this is a good idea. If you do listen to the teacher and take notes, you will save so much time on homework, and you will actually "learn"! That is why you go to school! School is not just a place you sit at desks and stare at the chalk.
  6. Study. Decide right away that you will put some effort into it. If you find you have a hard time focusing when studying alone at home, see if you can find a study partner, or even better, a study group (three or four people who will agree to study together). You'd be surprised at how much your study improves when you have someone else to answer to - and how much less nervous you are about tests. Which brings us to...
  7. Do NOT panic when you hear, "There will be a test tomorrow on chapter 5-7 in your Math text book!" If you panic, it will not help. It may just make things worse. Relax and go over your notes and textbook. Read it through one time quickly. Then read it again - you will probably actually understand it. If you picture it in your head, it's more likely you will remember that picture while doing the test.
  8. Find out how to graduate with honors. It may sound strange to think about this from Day One, but the truth is, if you ask your teachers and counselors early what you can do to earn honors for graduation, you will be better able to work toward them. It will give you a goal to strive toward.
  9. Treat everyone equally, with respect and dignity - just like you want them to treat you. Don't let people walk all over you. Be polite, but set your limits. Think about the nicest person you know - that person that everyone says, "Oh, she's nice, she never says anything bad about anyone," or "That guy is great - he's nice to everyone." Try to be like that yourself, and remember how good you feel when someone else is nice to you for no reason at all. It makes your day - and you can pay that forward to someone else every single day, whether it's the class jock or the class geek. There's an old saying: "It's very nice to be important. It's much more important to be nice." Being warm and friendly to everyone at school (even the not-so-cool kids) is good exercise for the rest of your life.
  10. Be open to new friends and experiences. School is all about learning. Part of what you will learn is how to get along with different personalities, and that's really what life requires you to do. Don't be too upset if your old friends from middle or elementary school seem to be drifting away - they're probably making new friends, too. Growing up sometimes means that we have different interests than we did before, and the friends we used to have don't always share them - that's okay. It doesn't mean you can't still be friendly with them, it just means you're both moving on with your lives and growing in different directions.

Tips

  • Be kind and caring to your school and community. Get involved and "stay in school!"
  • You are not a teacher's pet if you ask questions, do your homework, write down notes, and are nice to your teacher. It's called creating a good future and being a kind human being.
  • Make time for you family, friends and pets (if you have any. Just because you go to school does not mean you do not have time to share your company! Have fun with them, but again, set your limits and goals!)
  • Don't forget about hygiene! You're growing up, and one thing about being a grown-up is that when you sweat (and even when you don't), after a few hours, you get STINKY. Yes, YOU. Everyone gets smelly - take a shower and wash your hair every day. Use deodorant, brush your teeth (yes, dude, you need to - sleep 10 minutes and taste that funk and then think about how it is after all night), and wear freshly laundered clothes. If classmates can smell you stinking, you're painting a target on your back, even if people don't say it to your face, they'll talk behind your back. Sad, but true. Make sure you are fresh and clean, it gives everyone less to pick on about you.

Warnings

  • Just because you are nice and polite, does not mean you let people walk all over you.
  • If you are being bullied, try to ignore it. Bullies usually get some payoff out of you getting upset. The less you react, the smaller their payoff - try to just blow it off. There may come a time when you must stand up to them, though, or they will not leave you alone. However, if all your efforts to end the bullying fail, and the bullies will not leave you alone, or if it escalates, get help. If you are being bullied, talk to your friends, a guidance counselor, a teacher you trust, or your parents. If the situation gets out of hand, you have to tell someone. If you don't, it could lead to a very dangerous situation.

Things You'll Need

  • Good attitude
  • School supplies
  • Good posture
  • Courage - it takes guts to try new stuff, and you wouldn't need it if it wasn't hard
  • Good health and hygiene

Related wikiHows

Article provided by wikiHow, a collaborative writing project to build the world's largest, highest quality how-to manual. Please edit this article and find author credits at the original wikiHow article on How to Start a Great School Year. All content on wikiHow can be shared under a Creative Commons license.

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Wednesday, June 4, 2008

How To-45: How to Become an Advanced English Speaker


from wikiHow - The How to Manual That You Can Edit

Steps

  1. Read English constantly, whether it is books like Harry Potter or non-fiction, scholarly works.
  2. Read aloud in order to build both your written and spoken vocabulary.
  3. Practice writing a lot. Essays, article contributions, blogging, etc.
  4. Communicate as much as possible in English.
  5. Make use of the dictionary or thesaurus.
  6. When speaking English be relaxed and Confident.

Tips

  • Grammar is very important. Lay yourself a good grammar foundation and your English will improve exponentially. Nevertheless, don't get bogged down and held back by grammar rules. You want to speak the language, not learn how it's spoken.
  • Grammar is not only about sentence/verb formations. You should understand the implied meaning associated with the grammar used.
  • Try to think in English instead of your mother tongue/the language you are familiar with.
  • Use an English dictionary instead of a bilingual dictionary (as you progress).
  • Practice using natural English instead of finding the English equivalents from your mother tongue.
  • Watch movies in English without subtitles or English language satellite channels like BBC or CNN and try to understand it.
  • Find a friend with whom you can practice English.

Warnings

  • Be patient. Language learning takes a while.

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Sources and Citations

Article provided by wikiHow, a collaborative writing project to build the world's largest, highest quality how-to manual. Please edit this article and find author credits at the original wikiHow article on How to Become an Advanced English Speaker. All content on wikiHow can be shared under a Creative Commons license.

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