novalink005_may2010

- 042-35777804, 35777807

During my school days, I remember that at the arrival of each spring, both in terms of the official calendar

and of the actual weather, children used to literally burst from the school onto the playground with seemingly boundless energy.

Those joyful movements, excited discoveries, animated

invited complete freedom of movement –

forever.

intelligent. We know that fresh air and exercise are not only good for our bodies, but they also prepare our brains to focus more effectively on learning. There are a variety of research findings demonstrating the importance of outdoor experiences to healthy

childhood stress, obesity, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.

To heal the broken bond between our young and nature is in our self-interest, not only because aesthetics or justice demand it, but also because our mental, physical, and spiritual health depend upon it.

At our NIS, we are taking extraordinary measures to intentionally combat the disconnection between children and nature, both to improve their health and to nurture their interest in the future of the environment. We will be offering outdoor opportunities every weekend when the weather permits, and we’ll take advantage of our School’s Adventure Park located approx. 50 kilometers from Lahore, to broaden our children’s experiences beyond the campus environment. At this park, we are bringing the natural world indoors via our class pets, plants and planting projects and other natural artifacts

(feathers, rocks, wood, bamboo, etc.).

We encourage families of our students to take advantage of the many outdoor experiences that our beautiful School Park has to offer and have fun together!

Each semester, our entire school focuses on a theme of “Vital Issues” Last semester children were made aware of Pakistan’s energy problems. They were taught both inside and outside the classroom essentially about all our energy related facts in Pakistan. Under our “Energy Awareness” program, we launched a website (novaquestschool.com/energy) and also

young about the importance of water and how to conserve water. After all – as parents most of you remember the days when all water was drinkable and we never had to pay for a bottle of water in a restaurant. If someone at that time would

- you would probably

- and you will have to wait in

molecular edge on which we survive," will only grow more precarious. By 2025, over 2 Billion people will live where water is scarce.

The initiative our school is taking will not only educate; it will hopefully reshape how our students and their families as well as their community think about, use, and manage fresh water. It will provide the tools to enable them and communities to become part of the solution. Through our website (www.novaquestschool.com/water), we'll provide information, facts, interactive tools, water stories and prizes. We'll raise awareness through films in our theatre, books in our library, posters in our classrooms and interesting presentations. Our goal is to lead a far-reaching effort to meet the challenges posed by this precious and finite resource.

In this issue of Novalink, you’ll find some interesting facts on “Water” as well as parenting and teaching tips compiled from

NOVALINKNOVAQUEST INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL NEWSLETTERNOVAQUEST INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL NEWSLETTERNOVAQUEST INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL NEWSLETTERNOVAQUEST INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL NEWSLETTER

Volume 5, 2010

Director’s Message

WATER CRISISRs. 200 for a bottle of water - is this our future?

Aurangzeb Bhatti

May 2010NOVALINK

www.novaquestschool.com 12 F.C.C Syed Maratab Ali Road Gulberg IV, Lahore - Pakistan Tel: 042-35777804, 35777807

Parents’ Section “Be the heart of your family by having your family in your heart.”

Children learn through

observation. Sight is the most developed sense in humans. What you hear, may be forgotten; what you see will be understood; and what you do, will be remembered. Choose the values you wish your children to grow up with. If you want them to learn to be honest, live a truthful life. If you want them to be loving, freely give your love. If you want them to be respectful, show your admiration for everything and everyone.

Never go against these values. For instance, if you are lecturing your children on the value of honesty but lie to someone, this incongruence will create dissonance between the spoken word and action, and confuse the child. It also leads to doubt and hinders the process of building self-confidence. Living on values is called integrity and later in life, it will be the source, cause and root of success, in both professional and personal life.

Never tell your child that he or she is

better or worse than another. This will make them either arrogant or have complexes. Help them decide on their own personal standards and then set new ones to exceed them. In the same spirit, never label your children - don't call them lazy, loud, stupid, etc. Such judgment will make your child withdraw from you. Labels last forever. They determine behavior patterns in adulthood and carry on even into middle age and later years. As an adult, the person is not able to get over the label.

a sign of evolution. As long as what your children do does not harm them and anyone or anything else, that act is justified and must be encouraged. Even if their ideas go against yours, do not let your ego come between them expressing themselves.

Don’t ever say, "Because I am your parent, you have to listen to me." Your child's respect for you will take a nosedive.

Appreciate all achievements, small and big. Show them your pleasure and how happy they have made you — without the feeling that they owe it to you to make you happy. You do not have to buy them a gift for any or all achievements — just that encouragement is good enough.

Another caution — do not make your children dependent on encouragement. The source of motivation must come from the action and not from your encouragement. There is a delicate balance between making them dependent on encouragement, and to continuously reaffirm their thoughts, intents and actions.

The normal situation is

that parents do all the talking and the children have to listen. This is based on the perception that parents have more experience, more wisdom, more reason, and that children know nothing. Your true wisdom as a parent is tested by not talking. Your role is that of a facilitator. You ask the questions, provoke the child's mind and let them seek answers. Have trust in the fact that the child, too, is bestowed with infinite potential. She/he may not have experiences yet, but any perception that has ever been lived, is in the child's mind and can be accessed. Questioning is the process of accessing this information. When children learn to command their own sources of information, their confidence in life is strengthened.

Do not have

secrets. Whatever family issues you have, discuss them openly. Not only family matters, but social, political, economic, even taboo topics - anything. Even if they are very young, they are able to pick up the vibes and learn consideration and concern.

When they are older, let's say, around eight years old, you can even ask for their opinions. You will be amazed at the wisdom they possess and the kind of responses you will get. Most of these you should implement. Do not reject them. Remember, the child's genetic make up and intellectual capacity is updated, yours is outdated.

Allow them to make mistakes. Life's best lessons are learnt from the mistakes we make. Sure they cause damage, but it is all about how a parent handles the situation. From laughing it off at one extreme of the continuum, to allowing a child to make a conscious effort to change it — one thing is quite certain, your reaction will determine the value of the learning for the child.

Some children will repeat mistakes only to get the attention of their parents even if it means their wrath. That is where parenting is a complete failure.

When a child is grown, let them go and let God take over. Have

the confidence in whatever you have taught your children, they are now capable of leading their lives. Do not force your advice and suggestions on them. Let them make their decisions. They have watched you long enough to learn from your mistakes; now let them make their own.

Involve yourself only when asked. The next time you will need to put your parenting instincts to use will be with your grandchildren, so wait. Patience is the biggest virtue.

Remember the Bigger Picture

Mistakes are the portals of discovery. Your child is a complex human being. Be patient and remember your long-term goal of developing responsible, self-reliant individuals.

It has been proven that these seven principles on

parenting have helped children acquire an inner security that has given them self-

Every human being has a natural tendency to love as

it allows us to actualize ourselves. We enjoy cuddling and caring for a baby, protecting the toddler, guiding the adolescent, facilitating the teenager and allow the adult to fly. Parents must freely give off their love without any reservations and restraints. Even when you are upset or angry with your child, make sure that you love and concern comes through.

It is equally important to show this love physically. Hugging, the cuddling, an arm on the shoulder, holding a hand, stroking the hair, are all expressions of love. Parents must also demonstrate their love, respect and trust, for each other. The fastest and best way to teach your child kindness, compassion and generosity is by expressing the love you have for your spouse.

Live Your Values

Let Your Child Teach

Discuss Matters Openly

Let Go

Conclusion

Great Rules of Parenting

Love Them Do Not Compare

May 2010NOVALINK


Volume 5, 2010

teachers speak out about what

they would like parents to know

I care a great deal about your child, but I have to be concerned with all the children in the classroom. All my energies can't be focused on a single child.

I'll believe half of what your child tells me happens at home if you'll believe 50 percent of what he/she says happens at school.

Most children watch too much TV. Limit TV viewing and encourage physical activity, reading, and imaginative thinking.

encouragement are necessary for me to succeed in that effort.

Manners are important. As much as I treat all students equally, the child who remembers to say, "Thank you," "Please," "Excuse me," and "May I help you?" is thought of more fondly.

Please make sure you read the information I send home.

You are your child's first teacher. You have more of an impact on his/her values, behavior, expectations, work ethic, and actions than any other person in the world. If you feel education is important, your child will pick up on that and feel that doing his best and getting an education are important as well. You matter. You make the difference!

Education does not stop at the end of the school day or the start of summer. Your child needs you to provide enrichment and fun activities at home to keep the education going. Read to your child, even if she can read herself.

your community.

If I am doing something

Make sure your child wears comfortable clothing. Tight, frilly, or uncomfortable clothes hinder her ability to concentrate and do her best. Clothing styles that are popular in stores do not necessarily belong in school. Be aware that the clothes you think she is wearing to school are not necessarily the clothes she shows up in.

confidence, self-respect and trust. Because of this, they are able to trust, respect and love others. It helps them overcome fears, have courage and consideration in what they do.

Above all, never think that your children owe you anything. What you do for them as parents you do for yourself. It is entirely for your pleasure. Any thought, act or talk of them

having to pay you back later in life, whether in terms of respect, monetarily or caring for you, and you will wash out any good you have done. Such expectations enslave children, and they end up living with guilt.

As parents, live with these five words, "Our "Our "Our "Our

children owe us nothing!"children owe us nothing!"children owe us nothing!"children owe us nothing!" Instead, We owe them everything for the joy they have given us. All

children are absolutely the greatest gift from God. The younger they are, the more spiritual they are. Then they grow up and get corrupted. All humans are endowed with limitless nobility, it is up to us, the parents, to help them have faith in themselves and assist them to learn how to access, extract and live those virtues.

May 2010NOVALINK


Aurangzeb Bhatti

“ The Teacher knows that only the tedious is forbidden.”Teachers’ Section

as parents attend a PTA, they

hope their child’s teacher knows

Even though my child might seem average to everyone else, my child is very special to me. Look for what is unique about him.

Get to know my child -- and share the information with me. Children can act very differently at school and I count on you for insight into understanding my child.

at school.

Please don't talk negatively about my child to other parents -- or other teachers. Don't talk about my child at all if there's any chance he or other children might overhear.

I worry that my child will become the victim of bullies. Please be vigilant and do not allow anyone in the classroom the opportunity to make fun of him/her.

I am trusting you with my most precious belonging. Please cherish him/her.

I am trying hard to be the best parent I can be. Give me encouragement, not a list of things my child needs.

Whenever you call me to your office, I am afraid you are going to tell me the worst about my child -- surprise me. Tell me something great about my child.

Teacher . Please post your homework assignments clearly so I can make sure my child does what you assign. Also, post grades in a timely manner so I can find out if my child is falling behind before it's too late.

them at home.

Welcome me into your classroom. Parents have a lot to offer at all grade levels --reading to children, talking about hobbies and careers, organizing parties, helping with bulletin boards, presenting slide shows on something you are covering in class…. When we are welcome in your classroom, we are much more likely to support you and what you are doing.

Don't overdo homework. I understand that homework is necessary, but too much of anything is a bad thing. Families have so little time to be together…evenings shouldn't be spent only doing homework. We need time to do other things together too. Also, be aware that you are not the only teacher in the school. My child has other teachers who give homework too.

I worry about how my child gets along with other children and with his/her teachers. Is my child a leader? Does my child seem happy? Does my child volunteer information or do you have to call on her? Is my child cooperative…well liked…awkward? Telling me my child is doing fine isn't enough; give me positive examples of why I don't have to worry about my child.

May 2010NOVALINK


Ms. Amina Asghar Ali has a great passion for Science. She teaches it to Grade 4 & 5 and Islamiat to the middle school.

One of the unique qualities of NovaQuest is that it represents the best of both worlds. We are offering students a broad array of challenging opportunities. Our academic program is designed to promote student engagement. This interaction appeals to me. In the class my students and I explore course material together; always questioning, analyzing and building upon the known breath of content. I have noticed that such collaborative learning develops critical thinking skills and fosters a lifelong love of learning.

NovaQuest has taught me that if you cannot climb over a mountain, set about digging a tunnel through it, you will eventually reach your destination.

I remind my students to do the same.

Volume 5, 2010

Ms. Uzma Mustafa is a Mathematics specialist for Grades 3—5 and also teaches Sciences to Grade 3.

years I have gained confidence, strength, motivation, and a long lasting education: all as a teacher at NovaQuest. It’s an institution which enhances the capabilities and worth of not only its students but the teachers as well. The administration somehow finds out your hidden talents and sets tasks accordingly. This has created an environment where all feel comfortable and secure, trying to give their best.

The students are not overburdened. Teachers understand their psychology and guide them accordingly. Our aim is not just to have the best students with the highest marks, but responsible citizens with problem solving skills.

this school a lively, stimulating full-color resource, designed to develop the skills and potential of students while enhancing their performance, and enabling them to achieve their goal according to key stages. A unit by unit guide to using skills, outlining coverage of objectives, highlighting effective approaches to teaching and learning, and offering suggestions for planning, with a range of support, is ensured. Resource files and training is offered to all our teachers. A customisable format, tailor made to meet the needs of our students is also available.

Students' proficiency in specific areas is built up gradually in preparation for the O-Level examination. Clear and practical guidance and help is offered throughout, under the 'Examination Watch' icons.

We on our part have left no stone unturned to provide opportunities and guidance to students; enabling them to discuss, compare, correct and learn from this institution.

Our accompanying teachers provide valuable reinforcement for all skills. Our O-Level teachers have extensive experience in their respective subjects.

A lot of hard work and experience has gone into the new session starting in August to offer best quality education form Pre-School to O-

(Continued on page 11)

Ms. Beena Haque joins us with extensive experience in English language and composition. She teaches our Grades 6—8.

to NovaQuest , I was captivated by the environment and ambiance of the place. My two decades of teaching in some of the most renowned and illustrious schools of Lahore seemed to regain freshness and creativity as I was assigned to teach English.

I’ve found NovaQuest students to be very keen learners. They take interest in their work and are not hesitant in asking questions. This gives me, as a teacher, time to concentrate on improving their English language skills.

Students are required to speak and write correct English. Great focus is given to vocabulary and grammar, all the while keeping in view the student’s ability and his/her interaction with the world around.

Ms. Yasmeen Ms. Rubina

Falcons.

We started off with our Annual Drama, the theme was Environmental Issues and the venue was Ali Institute, Ferozepur Road. The event was partially sponsored by World Wildlife Fund (WWF).

The students gave an amazing performance in all their skits; deforestation (grade 2), global warming (grade 5 & 6), extinction of animals (grade 3 & 4) and drug abuse (grade 8, 9 & 10). The guests included Ali Habib (Director, WWF), Linda Blunt (Asst Public Affairs, US Consulate) and our Directors. The climax of the evening was when all participants, students and teachers, were on stage for the finale singing Michael Jackson’s song, ‘We are the World!’ Yet again, it was team work that made the event possible, thanks to all that made it happen and a special thanks to Ms Usma Khan (Manager Conservation Programme, WWF) whom without this event could not have happened.

The fun didn’t stop there, in March our students went to various trips; Pre School went to McDonalds, Grade 1 to 3 went to Lahore Zoo, Grade 4 to 10 went on a tour of Lahore including Badshahi Masjid and Lahore Fort (our tour guide was Mr. Khalid Mahmood, TDCP) and our Grade 8 to 10 students went to Mangla Dam – organized by Brig. Jahanzeb & our guide was Mr. Sheikh Mir of TDCP. We would like to thank MacDonalds, Ms Bushra Khan (manageress Lahore Zoo) and

(Continued on page 11)

May 2010NOVALINK


At school, a hungry child will easily lose concentration in

class, have no energy for playtime, and may snack on unhealthy foods such as chips or biscuits. A calm and healthy breakfast every day is the simplest defense against this happening, and will give children good habits to carry through life

Some kids skip breakfast because they sleep too late or because they think it's a way to stay thin. But skipping breakfast doesn't help people maintain a healthy weight. In fact, someone who skips breakfast tends to eat more calories throughout the day.

Foods rich in whole grains, fiber, and protein while low in added sugar may boost kids' attention span, concentration, and memory -which they need to learn in school.

“Remember: your state is always contagious.”Health Section

Breakfast Ideas...Yogurt with fruit or nuts

Lassi (yogurt drink)

Toast with butter

Cereal and milk

Fruit smoothie

Glass of milk

Fruit salad

Fresh fruit juice

Lets Skip It...

Brain Power...

Yummy Healthy Recipes

in 10 minutes

IngredientsIngredientsIngredientsIngredients

� 1 apple

� 1 banana

� 1 mango

� some grapes

� some pineapple chunks

� 1 cup fresh yogurt

� ¼ cup dried coconut, shredded

� wooden skewers

DirectionsDirectionsDirectionsDirections

1. Prepare the fruit by washing the grapes, apple and cutting them into small squares, peeling the banana & mango and cutting it into chunks, and cutting the pineapple into chunks too.

2. Spread coconut onto a large plate.

3. Slide pieces of fruit onto a wooden skewer and design your own kabob by putting as much or as little of whatever fruit you want! Do this until the stick is almost covered from end to end.

4. Hold your kabab at the ends and roll it in the yogurt, so the fruit gets covered. Then roll it in the coconut.

5. Repeat these steps with another skewer.

Ideas!Ideas!Ideas!Ideas!

Roll your kababs in something besides coconut. Try nuts, or raisins, or use your imagination. Go crazy with seasonal fruits.

Fruit Kabab

Boiled eggs

French toast

Sandwitch

Omelette

Leftovers

� Studies confirm that children who eat breakfast perform better in school.

� Kids who eat breakfast are less likely to be overweight.

� Kids who eat nutritious morning meals generally behave better and are more creative.

� Kids whose parents sit with them for breakfast retain this good habit longer.

Fast Facts...

20% of your daily calcium requirements can be received from half cup of milk on your cornflakes.

Each cow can produce over 20 liters of milk a day. In Pakistan they only produce 14 liters.

The ancient Greeks and Romans referred to barbarians as "milk drinkers."

Oats contain high levels of soluble fibre, which act as a sponge, soaking up cholesterol – helping to lower cholesterol levels.

85% of all protein consumed throughout the world is provided by grains such as wheat,

corn & rice.

Around 10,000 B.C. man first started eating a crude form of flat bread.

Sliced bread first appeared in Britain in 1930 under the Wonderbread label - hence the expression!

A wheat crop in Pakistan will produce on average about 1.2 tonnes of grain per Acre (An Acre is equal to eight canals), whereas in Australia they extract 3,200 tonnes from an Acre.

Butter is white. It has been colored yellow since at least the 1300’s.

Morning Foooooooods

May 2010NOVALINK


Volume 5, 2010

Mint Tea

Mint is an amazing herb for your digestive,

nervous and respiratory systems. It helps to

removes bad bacteria from the stomach,

reduces tension by soothing nerves, and

provides relief from flu symptoms.

Pour hot water (not boiling) over a few

crushed mint leaves in a cup. Cover it to pre

vent valuable volatile oils from evaporating.

Use honey as sweetener.

Clear skin, fresh breath and a relaxed mind

are just a nice cup of mint tea away.

Kids and Food Choices...

Many factors influence children’s food choices: where they eat; what their

friends and siblings eat; what parents eat and drink and bring into the house; what is served at school; and, of course, what they like.

But if you are a parent, would you want your children’s food and beverage choices determined by manufacturers whose primary goal is to make money by getting them hooked on products of questionable nutritional value? The issue is of particular importance now that rates of childhood obesity and malnutrition are soaring throughout the country, influenced in no small way by commercial interests.

TV the Teacher...

Television viewing is our daily major activity and influences children and adults. Young children more so as they are impressionable and may assume that what they see on television is typical, safe, and acceptable. As a result, television also exposes children to behaviors and attitudes that may be overwhelming and difficult to understand. While you are away at office, cooking dinner, or talking on the phone, your child is paying full attention to Mr. TV.

Too Much Sugar on TV...

We know too much sugar is bad for kids. The food companies spend a major portion of their budget marketing mostly low-nutrition foods to children, helping fuel an epidemic of childhood obesity, diabetes, and other conditions that are debilitating and expensive to treat. This media-saturated environment, where their desire for sugar food is cultivated not only through television ads, but also through contests; toys on and in food packages; children's magazines; snack brand books; cell phones (mobiles); advertising built into games on the internet; and ads masquerading as toys.

“If companies were marketing bananas and broccoli, we wouldn’t be concerned,” says Dr. Wootan, a nutrition expert. “But instead, most marketing is for sugary cereals, fast food, snack foods and candy. And this junk-food marketing is a major contributor to childhood obesity.”

TV in Pakistan…

Pakistan has 116 registered TV channels with 25 in the pipeline. But still we have no national nutrition policy, no watch-dog checking food health standards or monitoring our airwaves for irresponsible advertising. Corporations have a free hand. They are free to say, represent and teach our children what is best for their profits—not their health. Notice how ads for kids are not seen on news channels.

So, do you know what your child is watching?

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Burns and ScaldsBurns are caused by dry heat and scalds are caused by wet heat. This is what you do when someone gets burnt or scalded.

� Run cool (not cold) water over the burn until the pain lessons

� Lightly apply a gauze bandage

� Do not put any ointment or other solutions

� Do not break blisters

May 2010NOVALINK


Lahore ZooLahore Fort

Mangla Dam

Over 5,000 books

New DvD videos

NIS Updates

NovaQuest

Library

New Microscope

& experiments

NovaQuest

Science Lab

May 2010NOVALINK


Volume 5, 2010

EXTINCTION OF

ANIMALSDEFORESTATION

THE

ARCHITECTS

Grade 2 Grade 3 - 4

Grade 5 - 6

GLOBAL WARMING

Grade 8 - 9 - 10

DRUG ABUSE

NIS CHOIR

May 2010NOVALINK


“Those that are angry with everyone will end up believing in nothing.”Your Section

IS YOUR CHILD SWEARING? IS YOUR CHILD SWEARING? IS YOUR CHILD SWEARING? IS YOUR CHILD SWEARING?

LYING? STEALING? LYING? STEALING? LYING? STEALING? LYING? STEALING?

It's extremely difficult to trust an eight-year-old who lies regularly. It’s difficult to have confidence in a sneaky four-year-old who pinches things. It’s difficult to feel comfortable with a six-

year-old who swears. Lying, stealing and swearing behaviors cause concern to parents, and rightly so.

How you deal with your child depends on How you deal with your child depends on How you deal with your child depends on How you deal with your child depends on his age. his age. his age. his age. If your child is only two or three years old, he/she doesn't have mature moral understanding and doesn't fully know the difference between right and wrong. Atthe age of five or six, their moral development is more advanced, but they may still think that their immoral behavior is acceptable at times.At seven, however, they will certainly be fully aware of the difference between right and wrong — at which point, they'll know when it's wrong to lie, steal or swear.

FACT OR FANTASYFACT OR FANTASYFACT OR FANTASYFACT OR FANTASY

There will be times when you describe your child's statements as "lies" because he/she hasgiven an account of events which you know don't match the true version. But calling this a lie makes some assumptions.

� That they have deliberately and willfully altered their story.

� That they have full control over what they said — they could have chosen to tell the truth.

� And lastly, that they don't care about right and wrong.

� These conditions rarely apply to a child younger than four. Here are some other facts about lyingfacts about lyingfacts about lyingfacts about lying:

1. Pre-schoolers can have difficulty establishing fact from fantasy —when a child this age tells you something, the chances are they actually believe it is true.

2. While you may be prepared to tell a "white lie" in order to protect another person's feelings, your child might not be able to distinguish between that lie and any other type of lie.

3. Frequent lying in childhood can be a sign of a significant emotional problem, but usually only when it occurs alongside other worrying behavior such as stealing and aggressiveness.

4. A three-year-old child judges the severity of a lie in terms of the effect it has. A nine-year-old judges a lie in terms of the underlying intention.

5. There is no established link between a child's level of intelligence and their ability to lie. However, a child who isn't so bright has a greater chance of having their lie discovered.

WHY CHILDREN LIEWHY CHILDREN LIEWHY CHILDREN LIEWHY CHILDREN LIE

Children tell lies for many different reasons, including:

� To avoid discovery.To avoid discovery.To avoid discovery.To avoid discovery. Your child may tell a lie through fear of what will happen should they own up. That's why it is important to avoid over-reacting to a lie — if you make your child afraid, they will try harder to conceal her lie the next time.

� To make you happy.To make you happy.To make you happy.To make you happy. Your child might tell you something that they think you want to hear, even though they know it is untrue. For instance, they tell you sincerely that they have tidied their bedroom (when, in fact, it is still in a huge mess) because they know that you will be pleased to hear this.

� To be part of the crowd. To be part of the crowd. To be part of the crowd. To be part of the crowd. A seven-year-old's friendships is very important to them and they would rather stick with the group denying responsibility for a transgression, than be the only one in the gang who tells the truth.

� To make life more interesting. To make life more interesting. To make life more interesting. To make life more interesting. Young children have an amazing capacity to tell exaggerated stories about their own achievements or experiences. A three-year-old will insist that he/she jumped over a two-meter high fence. He/she wants this to be true because it makes life more interesting for them.

YOURS VS. MINEYOURS VS. MINEYOURS VS. MINEYOURS VS. MINE

Like lying, however, you can't reasonably accuse your child of stealing until they are old enough to fully understand the concept of personal possessions, and they won't fully grasp this notion until they are around three or four years old. Of course, even toddlers know when someone takes their toys and they create a fuss when that happens. Yet they will forget about the toy once it has been out of their sight for a while — and if they take a toy from some other kid, they believe it was theirs’ to start with.

By the time your child reaches the age of five years or older, though, you can be confident that they know exactly what stealing is and why such behavior is wrong. They may try to justify minor thefts, say, from their friend's bag, because they were victim of their friend’s petty theft on a previous occasion, but, at this age, they will also probably admit their behavior is improper when you confront them. The know deep down that stealing is wrong.

For some children, however, even those who are old enough to understand that stealing is wrong, the thrill of stealing outweighs the the thrill of stealing outweighs the the thrill of stealing outweighs the the thrill of stealing outweighs the

risk of being caught. In other words, they find stealing excitingrisk of being caught. In other words, they find stealing excitingrisk of being caught. In other words, they find stealing excitingrisk of being caught. In other words, they find stealing exciting. If your child is one of those with a daredevil streak, he/she can be tempted by risk and danger. When caught, he/she might say indignantly, "But I only did it for fun."

The most common reason for theft at any age is greedThe most common reason for theft at any age is greedThe most common reason for theft at any age is greedThe most common reason for theft at any age is greed, the desire to have something quickly without having to pay for it. For instance, a four-year-old boy might steal a sweet from his pal in pre-school because he is hungry and he hasn't got any sweets of his own — the

“A VERY YOUNG

CHILD HAS NO

SENSE OF WHAT

IS NOT HIS TO

TAKE”

May 2010NOVALINK


Volume 5, 2010

Levels.

Parents of the students studying in our institute have been permitted to visit us as and when needed. Their apprehensions, if any, will be taken care of.

Just as education is important, so is the attention and time spent by parents with their children. Holidays demand time from parents, which should be given to children for their healthy mental growth. By the will of Allah we shall start our next session with new fervor, motivation and better ideas to meet the challenges and obstacles in our way so as to make NovaQuest International the best school people are seeking.

(Continued from page 5) Vice-Principal’s Message

theft brings immediate gratification. The same applies when a nine-year-old takes a computer game from his friend's house without permission. Most acts of stealing by children aged three years and older fall into this category.

MIND YOUR LANGUAGEMIND YOUR LANGUAGEMIND YOUR LANGUAGEMIND YOUR LANGUAGE

Watching your child develop language skills is one of the rewards of parenthood, as you see her progress from mere babbling towards more mature sounds and then to actual words and sentences. But your joy turns to horror when you suddenly hear her cursing and swearing. She probably won't use bad language in front of you — unless she is in a furious temper. You are more likely to overhear her swear when she is with her friends, and you may be totally surprised at her use of these words. Children swear for a number of reasons. Again, a lot depends on your child's age and maturity.

� Adult imitation. When your three-year-old enters your untidy sitting-room, puts his hands on his hips, and bellows "What a bloody mess!" he is almost certainly imitating something he has heard you do. At this age, he mimics you because he loves you and he wants to be like you. It's different with your nine-year-old —when she swears like this, she means every word.

� Peer pressure. From the age of five or six, your child wants to be part of the crowd and this means behaving like all his friends, sharing their interests and wearing the same style of clothes. It also means swearing like his friends, if swearing is part of their normal behavior. So when your child and his pals play together at your house and you happen to overhear a stream of foul language, he is probably succumbing to peer pressure.

� Emotional release. Your child needs to be able to release her pent-up feelings when she is tense or angry. She may be able to do this in an acceptable way, such as telling you how angry she feels. Or swearing may be the quickest way for her to express her negative emotions. Your child probably finds swearing works for her because it is instant, loud and doesn't involve any physical contact.

� It's "cool". You only need to watch TV or the latest adventure movie to discover that swearing is often associated with the macho hero and portrayed as "cool". Children aged seven and older are particularly vulnerable to this sort of influence.

DEALING WITH IT ALL

Here's how to react when you discover your child lying, stealing or swearing:

Don't show your anger. Don't show your anger. Don't show your anger. Don't show your anger. It's infuriating to see a child tell a lie, hear him swear or catch him deliberately stealing, but a public display of your anger will only make him more secretive the next time. Instead, stay calm and deal with the situation in a controlled, firm and direct manner, while still showing your concern.

Explain why her behavior is wrong. Explain why her behavior is wrong. Explain why her behavior is wrong. Explain why her behavior is wrong. If she is younger, she doesn't fully understand what she has done wrong and so she needs you to tell her. Make it simple — for instance, "Other children won't like you when you steal from them" or "Nobody will trust you when you lie". If she is older, remind her plainly that it is wrong to behave that way.

Make punishments fair, not extreme. Make punishments fair, not extreme. Make punishments fair, not extreme. Make punishments fair, not extreme. Telling a lie is not the worst thing your child can ever do; neither is stealing or swearing. So make the make the make the make the

punishment appropriatepunishment appropriatepunishment appropriatepunishment appropriate. There's no point in banning him from football for a month because he swore when you asked him to wash some dishes. Be reasonable when punishing him.

Set a good example. Set a good example. Set a good example. Set a good example. Your child models her behavior on your actions; what you do and say has an impact on her. If she sees dad pinching a roll of sticky tape from his office for use at home, don't be surprised when she starts to pinch pencils from school. The same applies to swearing and lying.

Reward positive behavior. Reward positive behavior. Reward positive behavior. Reward positive behavior. The most effective way to discourage lying, swearing and stealing is to actively encourage honestyactively encourage honestyactively encourage honestyactively encourage honesty. When your child admits his mistake, by all means reprimand him/her for what he/she has done —but heap praise on him/her for telling the truth. And praise him/her when he/she resists the temptation to steal or swear.

Don't panic. Don't panic. Don't panic. Don't panic. The fact that you just caught your child stealing something, or that you found out he/she lied to you, or that you heard him/her swear like a trooper, does not indicate he/she is destined for a future life of immoral behavior. Deal with each incident firmly and directly — he/she is unlikely to do it again.

"YOUR CHILD MAY USE

SWEARING AS AN

EMOTIONAL RELEASE”

Mr.Musa Raza (TDCP, Tourist Officer) for their assistance in making the days memorable for all.

In the WWF Wetlands Nature Carnival, in February, our students presented a model in the category ‘Effects of Water & Air Pollution on Health’ and obtained third prize. We were up against renowned schools; LGS, Aitcheson, City School to name a few. Mr Tariq and Ms Nabeela coordinated the event with Seemal Shahid (gr7), Dhaniyal Ansari (gr 7), Momina Ali (gr 7), Shezadi Arif (gr 8) and Syed John Raza (gr 3).

The third term will be quiet with the focus on the final assessments and examinations for our students. We will also be holding O-Level Examinations for the first time as a British Council Centre.

Administrator’s Message (Continued from page 5)

May 2010NOVALINK


“You will only find yourself if you live for others.”

.”Students’ Section

The world consumes

trillions of virtual

gallons of water.

jeans and you're soaking in 2,900

gallons. This is our freshwater

consumption we don't directly see.

It's called “virtual water” - the amount

explain why Middle

Eastern countries,

with limited water

-

colleagues at UNESCO and the

University of Twente later calculated

the virtual water in commodities as a

Invisible Water

Why bothering about your water footprint?

Freshwater is a scarce resource; its annual availability is limited and demand is growing. The water footprint of humanity has exceeded sustainable levels at several places and is unequally distributed among people. There are many spots in the world where serious water depletion or pollution takes place: rivers running dry, dropping lake and groundwater levels and endangered species because of contaminated water. Act now or face a thirsty future.

Virtual Water

is the volume of

freshwater used to

produce a product.

“““”””

What is my water

footprint?

Your water footprint is the volume of water

consumption and pollution that you are

responsible for each day.

How can you reduce your water footprint?

As a consumer, you can reduce your ‘direct water footprint’ (home water use) by installing water saving toilets, applying a water-saving showerhead, closing the tap during teeth brushing, using less water in the garden and by not disposing medicines, paints or other pollutants through the sink. Our little actions go a long way in saving water.

May 2010NOVALINK


Volume 5, 2010

Not to ForgetNot to ForgetNot to ForgetNot to Forget

Imagine peace and quite,

imagine 80% literacy, imagine clean air and fragrant breeze, imagine fresh fruits and pure milk, imagine cool days and pleasant nights, imagine green grass and lush

and crystal water; now imagine you living there.

Welcome to Hunza. Situated in the north of Pakistan, this ancient valley is home to an amazing group of people. They are educated, civil and live in harmony with nature.

The people practice a Spartan form of agriculture, returning all organic matter to the soil. Their food consisted chiefly of raw fruits and vegetables, sprouted pulses, whole grains, nuts milk products

small portion of meat, usually during holidays and weddings.

Their diet and reliance on physical labor has given these people excellent health and long life. It is interesting to note that in Hunza no one eats before going to bed at night. None of the people, including children, eat between meals. There are practically no cases of overweight among the people of Hunza. They are light eaters. Absence of pollution is an added factor.

crime. The local people are serene and content. Despite poverty they keep their region free of crime and promote good values. Their secret is a strong community spirit, combined with a highly organized ‘neighborhood watch' system aimed at detecting any wrongdoing.

Even children are involved in the effort and have been used to prevent tourists from littering, marring walls with graffiti or engaging in other anti-social acts commonly seen almost everywhere else.

"We train our children to do what is good for all," says Hazir Shah a Hunza local.

Hunza today boasts Pakistan’s only community-based solid waste management mechanism. It has a growing class of educated youth who are working towards the future of their valley and the country.

Hunzaan Oasis

Hunza School Girl

Student’s WorkStudent’s WorkStudent’s WorkStudent’s Work Shiza & ZahraShiza & ZahraShiza & ZahraShiza & Zahra

Grade 5Grade 5Grade 5Grade 5

How to Make Invisible InkThings you need

� 1 Lemon� 1 Toothpick� 1 Blank paper

What to Do

in the juice and write your message on the blank paper. Let it dry. Use a warm iron on the paper. The message will appear.

Secret: The lemon juice contains carbon atoms that will turn black as the paper is heated.

Baltit Fort

May 2010NOVALINK


“Lie to others, and you will soon lie to yourself..“Games Section

SuDoku 4

1

4

3 1

Why play SuDoku?

+ Brain exercise

+ Increases logical powers

+ Helps prevent m e n t a l disease

+ Lea r n p r o b l e m solving

+ Its fun too

1 6

6 1

1 6

5 3

4 5

5 4

Can you escape the W maze!

Connect all the dots via five straight

lines. Don’t forget, you have to finish

where you started.

A man wishes to cross the river with a wolf, a sheep and some grass, and can only take one at a time in his little boat.

If he should leave the wolf with the sheep, wolf would eat the sheep

If he should leave the sheep with the corn, sheep would eat the grass

How will he take allallallall of them across safely?

Connect the Dots

“Water” in World LanguagesA M N A M A U G A L

I A Q U A S H K G S

I A I E I A L L A M

I E M N M E A G E Y

S G R G A N U T M A

E H U I I A E E I G

V J O B L M P R I I

O A J U L A U A O L

D A D T E J A L N R

A M A N Z I K Q B I

Did you know that there are over 6,000 different languages in the world? This means that there are over 6,000 different ways to say 'water'! Search for water in the letters above.

May 2010NOVALINK


Volume 5, 2010

School Timings

Pre School

Monday to Friday 8.30am - 12.30pm

Grade I to IX

Monday to Thursday 8.00am - 2.00pm

Friday 8.00am - 12.30pm

Are admissions s�ll open?

Admissions are open for 2010 / 2011

academic year.

Will my child have to take an entry test?

A�er registra�on, a date will be given.

What other prerequisites are needed for

admission?

A character cer�ficate for a child entering

‘O’ Levels is required from his/her

previous ins�tu�on.

Do you offer scholarships?

We have two scholarships - The ‘Falcon

Merit’ and ‘Falcon Means’ scholarships.

Details available on request.

Do you have a uniform?

Yes.

What is the minimum age for playgroup?

A Child must be 2½ years old

How do we submit the school fee?

School fee is submi/ed in the bank.

What extra curricular ac�vi�es do you

offer?

Football, badminton, basketball, and other

NovaQuest FAQ’s

Registration (non refundable)

Pre-School to Grade VIII Rs 1,000/-

O’Levels Rs 2,000/-

Admission Fee (non refundable)

All Grades Rs 10,000/-

Security (refundable)

All Grades Rs 5,000/-

Tuition Fee

Pre Nursery to Prep Rs 5,000/-

Grade I to III Rs 5,500/-

Grade IV to VIII Rs 6,000/-

O’Level (Grade IX onwards) Rs 7,000/-

School Fee Structure 2009/10

NovaQuest Information

sports ac�vi�es. Our drama�cs and

computer club are added extras.

What other facili�es do you have?

We have a fully equipped library, a movie

theatre, computer and science labs,

presenta�on and conference rooms and

more.

How can I get more details?

View our website, call us or visit our

campus; we’ll be glad to assist you.

www.novaquestschool.com

Call Us: 042-35777804, 35777807

Office Timings

Monday - Friday School Timings

Saturday 11am—2pm

Prepare the Next Generation

NovaQuest International School is always looking for bright and qualified teachers. We offer an extensive teach-er training program to equip you with the best and latest techniques in the field of teaching.

Join Us & Grow: 042-35777804, 807

3rd Position won by NovaQuest Team for their

‘Polluted Village’ project at WWF Wetlands

Carnival. Congrats NovaQuest!

WWF CARNIVALGrade 2 students did a wonderful job on their class

projects under the wings of Ms. Sumaira.

The school doors was lit up by kites made by Junior

school students. Our arts teacher, Ms. Nabila, did a

fabulous job of getting the students involved.

STUDENT PROJECTS

For New Admissions


Find Your Way

NovaQuest International School Newsletter

12 F.C.C.

SYED MARATAB ALI ROAD

GULBERG IV, LAHORE

PAKISTAN

Phone: 042-5777804, 5777807

Fax: 042-5874787

WEBSITE : www.novaquestschool.com

Name _________________________

Street Address _________________________

Town __________________________________

City __________________________________

NovaQuest International School

More details on our website

www.novaquestschool.com

7 Great Rules of Parenting 2

What Teachers want Parents to Know 3

What Parents want Teachers to Know 4

Importance of Breakfast 6

Television and Kids Health 7

NovaQuest in Pictures 8,9

Water Crisis - Virtual Water 10

Student Articles 11

Handling Problems - Children Swearing 12

Games and Puzzles 14

NovaQuest School Information 15

INSIDE STORIES

� World Class Physics Professor from University of California- Berkley

� Interesting Video Lectures

� A must for O-A Levels, Matric & FSc Students

� Understand Basic & Advance Physics Concepts

� Get Superior Grades

� Master the Application of Physics to Real World Current Events

TOPICS COVERED

Atoms Gravity Lasers WavesHeat Relativity Nuclear Physics NukesLight Electricity Superconductors Energy

m`Learning at NISPHYSICS FOR FUTURE LEADERS

Volume 5 - May 2010

novalink005_may2010

Documents

importance of water

fresh water

water stories

bottle of water

school days

beautiful school park

entire school

energy related facts