Hekko

The word 'Hekko' means 'to decide' or 'to make a decision'. It is a traditional game from Nagaland whose name reflects the idea of choosing sides or deciding teams before the game begins.

The two teams in the game of Hekko are called:
1. Aami (which represents the humans/deer side)
2. Aakho (which represents the tigers)

Each team in the game of Hekko has an equal number of players. The teams are of equal size so that the game is fair for both sides.

The players in the Aami team stand inside the circle and try to protect themselves. They attempt to stay safe within the boundary of the circle while the Aakho (Tiger) team tries to catch or tag them.

The Aakho team (Tiger) must say 'Joko' when they are caught because it is a rule of the game that signals their surrender or acceptance of being caught. It is likely a traditional word used in the game to acknowledge defeat in that round, just as in many traditional games players must follow specific words or actions to show they have been tagged or caught. It also makes the game more fun and culturally rooted.

Sample Answer:
I would prefer to be in the Aakho (Tiger) team because tigers are strong and powerful. Being on the chasing side makes the game more exciting and adventurous. I enjoy the thrill of running after others and trying to catch them. It also requires quick thinking and speed, which makes it a great challenge.

*(Note: Students may choose either team. Any well-reasoned answer is acceptable.)*

Sample Answer:
If I could add a new rule, it would be: 'A player who is caught can be freed if a teammate touches their hand before the Aakho team takes them away.'

Benefit: This rule would encourage teamwork and cooperation among the Aami team members. Players would have to look out for each other, making the game more exciting and teaching the value of helping friends.

- There is a beautiful park in my neighbourhood.
- They completed their work very fast.

Explanation: 'There' is used to indicate a place or to introduce a sentence. 'Their' is a possessive pronoun showing belonging.

- Two of my friends participated in the poster-making competition.
- I was tired after playing too.

Explanation: 'Two' is the number 2. 'Too' means 'also' or 'excessively'.

- The bowler threw the ball towards the batsman.
- I can see the clouds through my window pane.

Explanation: 'Threw' is the past tense of 'throw'. 'Through' means from one side to the other.

- My mother caught me eating an ice-cream at night.
- I sleep on a cot when I am at my grandmother's village.

Explanation: 'Caught' is the past tense of 'catch'. 'Cot' is a simple, narrow bed.

- While crossing the road, look to your right, then left, then right again and then cross the road.
- Write in a neat and legible handwriting.

Explanation: 'Right' refers to the direction opposite to left. 'Write' means to form letters or words on paper.