9 years and below
The wild animal I like the best
The elephant is a big animal. It is the largest land animal in the world. It is chubby and has a long nose called a trunk. It also has two large ears, four long, large legs and a small tail.
Elephants live in the jungle. Some elephants are tamed by people. Tamed elephants help people to drag and carry heavy logs, lift trees, and walk in peraheras such as the Kandy Dalada Perahera.
The elephant is a vegetarian. The female elephant is called ‘Kenara’ in Sinhala. Wild elephants live in the jungle and move about in groups. The elephants in the Wilpattu Wildlife Park in Sri Lanka are used to putting their trunks inside visiting vehicles to take food and fruit out. They do not harm visitors. Foreigners love elephants. There are lots of elephants that live in Habarana. Some wild elephants come out of the jungle and eat crops in cultivations in remote villages near jungle areas. They also destroy houses when searching for food in the villages. The tame elephants in the zoo play and dance to make the children and visitors happy.
The wild animal I like best is the elephant.
Rehan Ismail (7 years)
Lanka Sabha Junior School, Battamulla
10 – 12 years
The importance of water in our lives
Water is essential for all living beings. It covers about 71% of the Earth’s surface and makes up around 60% of the human body. Without water, life would not exist. It plays a crucial role in sustaining life, maintaining eco-systems and supporting daily activities.
Water is vital for human health. It helps regulate body temperature, aids digestion and removes toxins from the body. Drinking enough water helps prevent dehydration. Additionally, water is crucial for agriculture. Farmers rely on water to grow crops and raise livestock, ensuring food production for the world’s population.
Industries also depend on water for manufacturing, energy production and sanitation. Clean water is necessary for hygiene and disease prevention, reducing the spread of illness. Unfortunately, water scarcity and pollution threatens many regions making conservation and responsible usage essential.
Water is also needed for recreational activities, supporting health and well being through activities such as swimming, fishing and boating.
Protecting water sources and using water wisely ensures a sustainable future. Simple actions like reducing waste, preventing pollution and using water efficiently can make a significant difference. Water is not just a resource; it is life itself. Without it, survival would be impossible, making its conservation a shared responsibility for all.
Sadev Chandrasekara (12 years)
Lyceum Int. School, Panadura
13 – 15 years
International Women’s Day
Celebrated on March 8, International Women’s Day commemorates women’s fight for equality and their liberation from the shackles of chauvinism that have persisted throughout history. Due to universal suffrage movements, Women's Day originated from Europe and North America during the 20th century.
Over the years, International Women's Day addresses issues such as gender equality, reproductive rights and violence against women. It has become a widely observed day in many countries worldwide, with various traditions celebrating the significance of women's voices that have finally emerged and been heard.
Each year, the day carries a specific theme that highlights persistent challenges and calls for action. Though the shackles have loosened over time, they still persist, binding women in various parts of the world where they continue to face abuse, gender-based violence, workplace inequality and more. These struggles are acknowledged on this day, as a reflection of women's progress in society and a reminder of the battles still left to overcome.
There are several empowering women who have shaken the world with their intelligence, courage and wit. Malala Yousafzai for example, stood up for her right to education, despite enduring great suffering. Mother Teresa, with her selfless dedication to helping the poor and the sick, became a symbol of compassion and service. These are just a few examples of women who have left a lasting impact on the world, inspiring generations with their strength and determination.
In conclusion, Women's Day is not just a celebration for women but a gateway to gender equality. The courage and determination of women throughout history should stand as an inspiration to create a world for future generations, where women are appreciated to reach their fullest potential.
Aysha Manaal (15 years)
Ilma Int. Girls’ School
