Weavers Craft at Samskaara: Crafting Communication

A. The Art of Weaving Words

At Samskaara Academy, we believe in the power of words. Not just as tools of communication, but as tools for connection, leadership, and self-expression. This is exactly what Weavers Craft aims to cultivate in our students.

Weavers Craft is not a class, it's a process. It's the art of taking thoughts and feelings and crafting them into well-structured, compelling speeches. Whether it's through formal presentations, debates, or impromptu talks, this program allows students from Upper Elementary to Grade 12 to step into the world of public speaking and discover the impact of their own voices.

Each week, our students participate in sessions led by an expert external resource person who focuses on communication skills, leadership qualities, and fostering self-confidence through speech. This is not about memorising scripts. It's about authentic expression, clear thinking, and engaging an audience.

B. Weekly Sessions: Where Communication Meets Confidence

The journey of Weavers Craft starts with weekly sessions that cater to each grade from Upper Elementary to Grade 12. Each session focuses on specific aspects of communication like tone, body language, public speaking techniques, and the ability to express ideas clearly.

For our younger students, it might begin with storytelling and simple presentations, while older students take on more complex responsibilities like structured debates, impromptu speaking, and persuasive communication. This progression mirrors their emotional and cognitive development, giving them an ever-deepening relationship with the art of expression.

The facilitator brings in practical exercises, real-world examples, and interactive activities. Students, in turn, bring in their unique perspectives, personal stories, and their own ways of connecting with audiences. It is not about perfection. It is about growth, confidence, and finding your authentic voice.

C. Rasa: The Showcase of Their Craft

Once a year, Weavers Craft culminates in a grand event called Rasa, a literary contest where students get the chance to showcase their speaking abilities. It's a celebration of everything they've learned, putting their skills to the test in a range of communication formats.

The event includes:

• Prepared speeches, where students present on topics they've worked on for weeks
• Extempore speeches, challenging students to speak spontaneously on a given topic
• Debates, allowing students to express and defend their views in real-time
• Just A Minute (JAM), where students must speak on a topic for 60 seconds, without hesitation or repetition

And this year, we've introduced a new category for Grade 11 and 12 students: the Brand Storytelling Challenge. In this exercise, students research and present on well-known brands, uncovering the story behind the brand's success, including marketing strategies, brand value, and what has made it a household name.

The Rasa showcase is an event that embodies the core of Weavers Craft. Students not only speak but showcase their growth as communicators and critical thinkers.

D. Building Leadership Through Expression

Weavers Craft is about more than just speaking in front of an audience. It is about building leadership. By teaching students how to express themselves clearly, how to think critically on their feet, and how to command a room, Weavers Craft shapes the leaders of tomorrow.

In addition to honing communication skills, students learn how to listen actively, appreciate different perspectives, and work together in a community. These are qualities that extend far beyond the classroom, into every part of life, whether at school, at home, or in their future careers.

What is unique about Weavers Craft is that it teaches self-leadership through effective communication. It is a powerful tool that students can use to bring change to their own lives and to the world around them.

E. A Craft that Lasts a Lifetime

The lessons learned through Weavers Craft are lifelong. The ability to express yourself clearly, speak with confidence, and think critically is a skill that will serve students well in any field. Whether they go on to become entrepreneurs, artists, educators, or leaders in any capacity, the ability to communicate effectively is invaluable.

At Samskaara Academy, Weavers Craft is more than a class. It is a space where students can discover their voice, grow their leadership potential, and take on challenges that push them to become better versions of themselves.

Through Weavers Craft, we are not just teaching students to speak. We are teaching them to lead, influence, and change the world, one word at a time.

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