No matter how well-prepared you are for an exam, silly mistakes are inevitable. Practice surely makes a student perfect, but for a subject like Math, most of us struggle with finding the right answers within the given time-frame and often commit errors in calculations on the answer sheet. When the student becomes aware of his mistake, his morale is negatively affected and if not corrected on time, he may form a habit of continuing to make errors as– One Silly Mistake, Leads To The Other! Here are a few common Math mistakes that students need to take care of:

#1 Order of Operations

Solve: 30 – 7 × 2

Incorrect Solution

30 – 7 × 2

= 23 x 2

= 46

Correct Solution

30 – 7 × 2

= 30 – 14

= 16

#2 Using Unit Conversion

Solve: What is the height in meters of a student who is 4’9” tall

Incorrect Solution

4 feet 9 inches

1 feet = 0.3048 meters

4 feet = 4 x 0.3048 meters

= 1.219 meters

= 1.219 + 9

= 10. 219 meters

Correct Solution

4 feet 9 inches

1 feet = 0.3048 meters

4 feet = 4 x 0.3048

= 1.219 meters

And

1 inch = 0.0254 meters

9 inches = 9 x 0.0254

= 0.2286 metres

So, 1.219 meters + 0.2286 metres

= 1.4476 metres

The student is 1.4476 metres tall

#3 Estimation Problems

To cut 8 pieces of blocks, the carpenter takes 10 minutes. How much time will he take to cut 12 pieces?

Incorrect Solution

8 x 12 ÷ 10 = 9.6 minutes

Correct Solution

8 pieces -> 10 minutes

12 pieces -> ? minutes

Let’s assume ‘x’ minutes

So,

8 pieces -> 10 minutes

12 pieces -> x minutes

8 x x = 10 x 12

X = 10 x 12/8

X = 120/8

X = 15 minutes

#4 Place Value

Write the place value of number 9 in 176.409

Incorrect Solution

176.409

Correct Solution

176.409

#5 Comparing Fractions

Which fraction is greater?

Incorrect Solution

1/4>1/2

Correct Answer

1/4<1/2

How to Stop Making These Mistakes?

#1 Learn From Your Mistakes

It’s okay to make silly errors while solving Math problems, however, don’t just shrug it off saying it won’t happen again. Take time to understand where you faltered and what should have been the correct step, so as to avoid this mistake again. Was the word problem not read correctly? Did you happen to miss a step while doing rough work calculations? Was the decimal point not copied from the sum correctly? Break the chain of repeating the same error. Review your old test papers and resolve the questions, for sake of practice.

#2 Read The Word Problems Twice

Understanding the language behind the word problem is a little tricky, and thus it must be read twice before proceeding with the solution. The most important step is to look for keywords in the question. Some keywords are important, while other sentences or wordings are redundant. So, to avoid errors, one needs to know which keywords to focus on, and that happens only with practice.

#3 Re-check Your Work

Some students feel re-checking is a waste of time! When you revisit your solution, you may spot errors that you made in the first place and get a chance to correct them, rather than regret losing marks. A good Math student always writes neatly, draws a separate working column for calculations, and double-checks the ‘negative’, ‘positive’, ‘multiplication’, and ‘division’ signs used in the solution.

The Mathseeds platform is designed for Gen Z kids who find it boring to use the pen & paper format to study, but rather fiddle on laptops and iPads. Schools in Dubai and all-over the Middle East recommend Mathseeds as an after-school recreation-cum homework activity for students. If you reside in GCC or UAE, head to our website to learn more about Mathseeds <link>

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Burdening children with studies right in their early childhood years is unfair and unnecessary. How would you then introduce a 4-year-old to basic concepts of math, computers, and science? Textbooks are an unheard-of phenomenon in pre-school years and educators heavily rely on hands-on techniques to prepare students for elementary school and beyond.

What is STEM Based Learning?

STEM is a cohesive learning approach that involves the real-world application of concepts taught in school. In this complex world that we live in, it is a necessity for our youth to learn skills such as problem-solving, making correct decisions, and assimilating information that is readily available to them via digital mediums. Therefore, the STEM system rests upon 4 important pillars; Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics; as the emerging job market is gravitating towards work opportunities in the following fields. Essentially, STEM education gives a good start and direction to students who would later go on to make a successful career for themselves, in any of these upcoming fields

What are STEM Toys?

STEM toys are excellent tools for learning, aside from being fun. They are engaging and exciting, such that students don’t get bored, on the contrary, they find reasons to engage with these tools. ‘Learn while you play’ is essentially the motto!

About Matatalab

With a mission to become the world’s leading education company based on innovative STEM solutions, Matatalab is transforming the way children learn….one child at a time! Their innovative learning solutions are powered by technology and aim to instill confidence amongst children to face the challenges of the changing world around them. Combining the benefits of technology and innovation, their range of coding products is impressive. Matatalab has already created an impressive impact across pre-kindergarten and primary schools in different parts of the world, including Dubai in the Middle East. Here’s what educator’s who implemented Matatalab lessons, have to say about this platform;

Kindergarten

“Matatalab is suitable for use by preschoolers. Matatalab is a learning tool that makes the learning process exciting; Matatalab can be linked to all subject areas of pre – primary education (me and the environment, language and speech, mathematics, art, music) The tool does not require much space to move around so it can be used freely for desktop activities.” — kindergarten teacher

Primary School

“During the pilot I as a teacher experienced cooperation with peers, happy faces, joy of learning new things and happiness when they figured out the solution. It was nice that we were able to boost creativity skills for my students. Robots were easy to use. There were tasks for all kinds of students, for them who just started coding and also for them who were at a more advanced level.” — Grade 1 teacher.

Tale-Bot Pro (Recommended for PreK-K)

Tale-Bot Pro is a simple and easy-to-use robot set for kids between ages 3-5 years. Children learn to code and manipulate the robot to make smart moves. Kids can curate their own storyline where the robot is made to perform different tasks like drawing and dancing. Through play-way children develop their speaking skills by interacting with the teacher and other students in class. One also develops socio-emotional skills, such as empathy and tolerance, by sharing their robot buddy with others in school and playing together in a group.

Matatalab Lite (Recommended for PreK-K)

Kids learn concepts such as sequencing, conditionals, and debugging, by using the Matatalab Lite module. The best part about this is that there is absolutely no screen time involved and hence it’s safe for children to play & code the robot for as long as they wish to. The kit comes with a step-by-step challenge booklet, which offers different gamified tasks, allowing preschoolers to use their imagination and complete the levels until proficiency is achieved.

Pro Set (Recommended for K-Grade 4)

Students can flaunt their Pro level skills with the Matatalab Pro Set. At a young age, children learn to use coding blocks and algorithms to control a robot car, thereby improving their cognitive abilities. Even one’s creative expressions come to the fore, as users can curate beautiful art scenes and play different musical tunes by coding the Pro Set robot. We are sure your little munchkins will fall in love with Matatalab kits and develop a fondness for coding at a young age. It’s time to start your kid’s ‘coding journey’ with Matatalab! To enquire about its availability in UAE and other GCC countries across the Middle East, visit our website

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What is a survey?

A survey is a method of gathering answers or information from a group of people with an aim to understand their opinions and perspectives on the subject for which the survey is being conducted. From a strategic point of view, a survey can reveal important information to businesses, on basis of which one can decide whether or not the customer is satisfied with the product, what is the current market requirement, or are the employees happy with their job role.

What is a survey?

A survey is a method of gathering answers or information from a group of people with an aim to understand their opinions and perspectives on the subject for which the survey is being conducted. From a strategic point of view, a survey can reveal important information to businesses, on basis of which one can decide whether or not the customer is satisfied with the product, what is the current market requirement, or are the employees happy with their job role.

What are the different types of survey methods?

Every survey is unique in its own way and its efficiency will be magnified, only when the correct survey method is used. There are several types of survey methods, and here are just a few for your understanding;

In-person Survey

The in-person or face-to-face survey method isn’t too common these days in the digitally connected world, but survey analysts do believe that it is the most reliable format, as the participant’s expressions and movements are captured, thereby gathering genuine feedback. A representative is sent with a questionnaire to the person’s house and reads out the questions to the participant aloud, thereby seeking answers. This interaction can be captured on video or over voice recording.

Email Surveys:

In an email-survey, the questionnaire link is sent to the participant’s email address and often a deadline is mentioned before which the survey needs to be answered. This is the most convenient of all methods, as one can easily fill the form at their convenient time, from a phone, laptop or iPad device. It’s economical to conduct such surveys, and they can reach a vast target audience, thus proving beneficial. Though it’s immensely effective, there are a few downfalls, as one may unintentionally miss the survey in their ‘inbox’ or find it in the ‘trash’ folder. Also, some participants may be skeptical about the authenticity of the survey and refrain from being a part of it.

Online Surveys

An online survey is like an open-book for anyone to participate. It is mostly advertised via Google Ads or the survey link is published on a website from where you can fill the form. Online surveys are on basic topics like; ‘heath and safety of women’, ‘what do you prefer for breakfast’, ‘is remote working more suitable’ etc. There is no specific demographic target, as such, for this type of survey and even international audiences can herein participate. It can also be undertaken anonymously.

Online Surveys:

An online survey is like an open-book for anyone to participate. It is mostly advertised via Google Ads or the survey link is published on a website from where you can fill the form. Online surveys are on basic topics like; ‘heath and safety of women’, ‘what do you prefer for breakfast’, ‘is remote working more suitable’ etc. There is no specific demographic target, as such, for this type of survey and even international audiences can herein participate. It can also be undertaken anonymously.

Designing A Survey

Curating a survey from scratch isn’t rocket science, as several websites are available, especially online that share a pre-defined template, and all you need to do is fill in the questions. So, whether you are planning to use Google Forms or SurveyMonkey for an in-mail survey or print the same for a face-to-face procedure, following the below steps will make it easier for you to proceed:

#1 Define the Purpose of a Survey

To define the purpose of your survey, simply ask the question what is it that you wish to learn about from the audience. Do you want feedback on a recently launched product? Or do You wish to know how likely your existing customers are to promote your business to their friends & relatives? There should be one clear goal for the survey and the questions must revolve around that topic.

#2 Decide Your Target Audience

Based on the purpose of your survey, who are your targeted audiences? Demographic-wise is there any specific criteria based on; age (20 – 30 years), gender (only females), household income (above 21,500 AED), location (UAE Region), marital status (Single), etc. Do you wish to target new prospective customers or existing ones? How many of the audiences within the targeted demographics do you wish to reach out to? All these are questions that will bring clarity and add a clear purpose to the process of conducting the survey.

#3 Create a List of Questions

The questionnaire should ideally be crisp and precise, as people get irritated if they have to scroll through page after page just to reach the submit button. Say goodbye to lengthy surveys! There are many different types of questions to include in the survey, some open-ended & others close-ended. A good mix of these may break the monotony and also help gain insightful opinions while analyzing the responses. Be very careful while drafting the questions. They shouldn’t be too ambiguous, and the language must be easily comprehensible.

#4 Ask the same Question often

You must have noticed while filling out a survey form, that the same type of question is asked in different ways. One may be an objective type MCQ, while the other may be open-ended. This is only to verify if the participant truly stands by what he is answering, or is he simply filling the questionnaire in a hurry without much consideration.

#5 Check Backend Settings

If a particular question is ‘optional’ the participant should be allowed to skip it without facing problems while submitting the survey. Also, if there are any specific time constraints, a timer should be displayed, so that one knows how fast he needs to pace himself to complete the submission. Don’t forget to freeze the survey, past the deadline.

TechnoQuestionnaire by TechnoKids

Why should our little champions not get a chance to construct their own questionnaire? Computer Period can be made fun by introducing kids to ‘TechnoQuestionnaire’, where they can use their creativity, knowledge & computer skills, to build an online Survey Form. IB schools in Dubai and other GCC regions in the Middle East, have collaborated with TechnoKids and have found it beneficial to introduce age-appropriate digital lessons to their students.

By using this module, students not only research and design their own Google Forms but also analyze the responses on Google Spreadsheet, by sorting & formatting data. Learn more about TechnoKids by visiting our website: https://knowledge-hub.com/technokids/

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In today’s fast-faced and technology-driven environment, robots are not a thing of the future anymore. They are part of our present reality and research in social robotics and their application in human-robot interaction is on the rise. The long-term aim of programming robots for social interaction is to apply them in diverse aspects of life such as health, education, entertainment, quality of life and communication. Multiple educational institutions all across GCC, Dubai, UAE and Middle East are using MiRo, the animal-like robot as an educational tool for STEM subjects. The robot is designed to behave in a natural way and students also get a chance to use the MICROCODE programming environment to create their own unique programs and try them live in a full-physics simulation. However, first, it is vital to comprehend which elements are used to program robots for human interaction.

Developing Artificial Senses

A normal animal is able to successfully detect what goes around in the environment, which is why even robots should be able to do the same in order to blend naturally. Most new-generation robots come equipped with artificial sight, touch and hearing. For sight, engineers fit internal digital cameras that not only receive digital images but also identify them with the help of its program that processes all this data. This allows the robot to identify its visual environment and communicate appropriately whenever required. For hearing, they come equipped with integral microphones that receive analogue data, which is then converted to digital files. It is programmed in such a way that the social robot will not only recognise the human voice but also be able to notice the voice pattern etc. Multiple advanced robots also feature touch-sensitive ‘skin’ that detects weight and is sensitive to pressure. This indeed plays a huge role in human interaction.

Programming The Responses

Now that our robot is equipped with its artificial senses, it now requires programs that allow it to detect behaviour and respond in an appropriate manner. This includes mechanical movement like turning and tilting its head, moving its arms and legs, reaching out to touch its companion and much more. Modern robots also include speech and sound; many social robots are used to play audio tracks, music, and make certain sounds.

Things to keep in mind for a successful human-robot interaction

A lot of factors go into ensuring the interaction between a human and a social robot is seamless and meaningful. Some of these factors include the design and styling of the robot’s body and head, the movement of the social robot (which also includes speed and reflexes), the way the voice sounds and how it interacts with its environment. These factors highly depend on what purpose the social robot is designed to serve. For example, a robot designed for children will feature a soft voice with cute childlike features. Sophisticated programming includes a comprehensive amalgamation of all these elements in a way that they feel comfortable to be around and benefit people. While some robots have a humanized design, robots like MiRo are designed like an animal. These social machines have proved to be tremendously helpful in the education industry as it allows students to learn more about robotics, AI coding skills, technology and much more.

While the global trends throw more light upon the importance of Human-Robot Interaction, it is safe to say that programming robots for human interaction are still a long-term challenge. However, the sharp rise in the availability of social robots has struck a positive chord for this industry.

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In this fast-paced digital world, where we most often work with our laptops, iPads, and are glued to our phones, there is very little human interaction that takes place. Conversations are limited to ‘monosyllabic’ expressions, interrupted blatantly by a ‘WhatsApp notification’, diverting your attention back to the handheld device. What are our children going to learn by observing these obsessive tech-addictive traits of adults?

As parents and educators, your most important job is to teach children how to communicate with others and help the child develop good social skills. Being socially accepted by peers in class and within their neighborhood circle, gives the child confidence and boosts his self-esteem. However, true acceptance begins when the child is polite, courteous, and respectful, of everyone he interacts with.

From a young age, children need to be taught ‘golden words’ or ‘magic words’ such as; Thank You, Sorry, May I, Please, Excuse Me, etc. Time and again, emphasize to your kiddo how important it is to be gracious and follow certain rules of etiquette, not only at home but everywhere you go.

Good Manners Include The Following

• Greeting people politely
• Using golden words often
• Not interrupting someone while they are talking
• Knocking the door before entering a room
• Always being punctual and keeping your promises
• Having a presentable appearance and being well-groomed

Practice Manners & Ettiquette

• Use different scenarios and conduct role-play exercises
• Correct your child politely whenever necessary
• Model the right behavior yourself first
• Read appropriate books to them

Story Books on Manners & Etiquette

Children love glancing through books, admiring attractive illustrations, characters, and scenes from the story. A good story book has a moral, is fun to read, and is relatable to students.

Here’s a list of books you can refer to while focusing on teaching toddlers and preschoolers about manners & etiquette:

Excuse Me: A Little Book of Manners by Karen Katz

This is a perfect book for your 2-year-old tiny tots. As you turn the pages, you will come across different day-to-day scenarios that the child faces, and how he needs to appropriately respond to them. When do you say please? When to say sorry? All this is amplified in the book. From breaking toys unintentionally to burping aloud, all these instances are illustrated through pictures and the ‘golden words’ are highlighted in bold.

May I Please Have a Cookie? by Jennifer E. Morris

This book is for Level 1 Scholastic Reader and is a beautiful story between Alfie & his mom. Like every kid, Alfie has a sweet tooth and he loves his mom’s cookies. The aroma of the new batch of delicious cookies is tempting Alfie to get his hands on them as soon as he can. He tries different stunts to sneak into the kitchen and snatch a cookie. Dressing up as a cookie inspector and spying on the cookie jar, are only a few attempts he fails at. His mommy, finally explains to Alfie – that if he wants to eat a cookie, he just needs to ask politely for it. Alfie uses the magic words ‘Please may I have a cookie’ and his wishes are willingly granted.

Manners by Aliki

Manners, is a must-have on your bookshelf. Curated by the award-winning author – Aliki, Manner uses child-friendly cartoons to teach politeness, courtesy, and appropriate behavior to children. There are a few role-play exercises illustrated in the book, to help you get started. Short stories and funny characters, teach us the importance of ‘keeping other’s needs before your own’ and how you must put this to practice.

Curious George Says Thank You by Emily Flaschner Meyer

This book is about George who loves to receive ‘thank you’ cards in mail from his friend Betsy. He wants to return the favor and spread goodness by sending ‘thank you’ cards to all his friends in return, including Betsy. George starts to prepare a list of the people he wants to thank and then tracks down their addresses to whom the card needs to be delivered. Children are encouraged to use the perforated ‘thank you’ cards from the book and send it to someone they have on their mind.

So, get your hands on the above story book copies from a local library in Dubai, source it through Amazon, or simply subscribe to Reading Eggs – an e-library for children 2 – 13 years of age. It’s rather easy to download Reading Eggs on your devices and search for age-appropriate books by famous authors. Around 20 million users around the world trust the Reading Eggs platform, including parents in UAE & other GCC countries, across the Middle East. 

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