INQUISITRON Theme: CHRYSALIS 23 September 2026.I N T E R - S C H O O L C O M P E T I T I O NLADY ANDAL SCHOOL‘Shenstone Park’, No. 7, Harrington Road, Chetpet, Chennai-600031rd

ABOUT INQUISITRON Inquisitron is a platform that inspires students to explore challenges and create solutions for a sustainable future. Each year, we choose a theme to spark curiosity and innovation through our engaging competitions. This year's theme, ‘Chrysalis,’ invites students to explore the journey of change, growth and transformation. Just as a chrysalis represents a remarkable stage of development before something new emerges, this theme encourages students to discover how ideas, materials, organisms and innovations can adapt, evolve and transform. From simple ideas growing into meaningful creations to challenges transforming into innovative solutions, Chrysalis reveals the power of curiosity, experimentation and imagination. Through fun and interactive events, students will explore how transformation influences science, technology, design, art and creativity. Join us as we celebrate the journey of transformation and discover how every great idea has the potential to emerge into something extraordinary!

The Madras Seva Sadan Established in 1928 by the late Sir Mutha and Lady Andal Venkatasubba Rao, The Madras Seva Sadan stands as one of South India’s oldest and most trusted institutions, dedicated to transforming lives through education, women empowerment, child welfare, social service,culture and sports - guided by the timeless values of compassion, dignity and service with a smile. Vision - Amelioration, advancement and upliftment of men, women, boys and girls in every sphere of life. Mission - To provide for general, academic, cultural, technical, industrial, vocational and other forms of education, without distinction of caste, creed or class, serving the needs of the wealthy and indigent alike. Motto - Service with a smile. Lady Andal School is an integral part of the Madras Seva Sadan (MSS), carrying forward its legacy of education, service, and community development. Together, we strive to nurture responsible, compassionate, and empowered young individuals. Visit our main branch : https://themadrassevasadan.org/units

GENERAL GUIDELINES Registration is mandatory for all the participating events. Students may participate only in the category applicable to their grade level and compete individually or as a team, as specified for each event. Individual Events: One participant per school. Group Events: One team per school. Reporting time for all participants is 8.00 am at the venue. Participants are expected to be punctual. Students must attend in school uniform and wear their school ID card at all times. Mobile phones are not permitted for students during the event. No food or beverages are permitted inside the Concert Hall. Participants must adhere to the event-specific guidelines, requirements and material specifications mentioned for each event. All entries must be original. Academic integrity is expected, and plagiarism or any unfair practice may result in disqualification. Participants are expected to maintain discipline, respect and sportsmanship throughout the competition. Participants and accompanying teachers are responsible for arranging their own lunch and snacks. Food kiosks will be available on campus. Students may carry money accordingly. The school is not responsible for the loss, theft or damage of personal belongings. Schools are encouraged to participate in as many eligible events as possible, as each event provides an opportunity to win and contribute towards the school’s Overall Championship. Winners of each event will receive a certificate and memento. The Overall Champion and Overall Runner-up schools will receive a trophy. The decision of the judges will be final and binding.

TIMEEVENTTYPEGRADECategory 19.30 AM – 10.45 AMPitch a Revolutionary IdeaIndividualGrades 4 & 510.30 AM – 11.30 AMThe 1-Sheet TransformationGroupGrades 4 & 5Online EventTo be submitted prior to the event by 20.09.2026Art Evolution: Past Meets DigitalIndividualGrades 4 & 5Category 29.30 AM – 10.45 AMBehind the BreakthroughIndividualGrades 6, 7 & 811.00 AM – 12.15 PMThe Shape of TransformationGroupGrades 6, 7 & 8Online Event To be submitted prior to the event by 20.09.2026Art Evolution: Past Meets DigitalIndividualGrades 6, 7 & 8INQUISITRON 2026 Events at a Glance

TIMEEVENTTYPEGRADECategory 39.30 AM – 10.45 AMRebuild the FutureIndividualGrades 9, 1011.00 AM – 12.15 PMRangometryGroupGrades 9, 10Online EventTo be submitted prior to the event by 20.09.2026Reel of TransformationIndividualGrades 9, 10Category 49.30 AM – 10.45 AMRebuild the FutureIndividualGrades 11 & 1211.00 AM – 12.15 PMBattle-OnGroupGrades 11 & 12Online EventTo be submitted prior to the event by 20.09.2026Reel of TransformationGroupGrades 11 & 12

Time9.30 AM – 10.45 AMGrades applicableGrades 4 & 5 - Category 1Type of eventIndividual Event, On-the-Spot ChallengeCategory 1 Events PITCH A REVOLUTIONARY IDEAObjective Become a young innovator and transform an idea into a solution! Participants will design and pitch an innovative product that transforms the way people live, learn, work or solve everyday problems. Inspired by Chrysalis, students will explore how a simple idea can evolve into something new, useful and meaningful through creativity, technology and problem-solving. Guidelines This is a solo event. Each student will develop an original product that addresses a real- world need or problem. The product must demonstrate transformation- improving, changing or reimagining an existing product, process, service or everyday experience. The presentation must be supported visually (poster, flowchart, slides) brought to school on the day of the event. Students will have 3 minutes to explain their idea, its transformation, key features and benefits.

Judging Criteria Creativity & originality Relevance to chrysalis Real-world impact Communication & presentation Materials to be Brought Stationary materials Pen drive (if necessary)Time9.30 AM – 10.45 AMGrades applicableGrades 4 & 5 - Category 1Type of eventGroup Event (2 participants per team), On-the-Spot ChallengeTHE 1-SHEET TRANSFORMATIONObjective Transform simple sheets of paper into something extraordinary! Teams will use creativity, planning and engineering skills to transform three A3 sheets into a self-supporting three-dimensional structure. Inspired by Chrysalis, this challenge explores the transformation of form and function as teams experiment, adapt and turn simple materials into innovative creations.

Guidelines Each team must consist of 2 participants. The sheets must be transformed into one self-supporting 3D structure. No additional materials, glue, tape, scissors or adhesives may be used. Participants may fold, roll, bend, pleat or twist the paper. The final structure must stand independently for at least 10 seconds. Teams may test and improve their design within the allotted time. Judging Criteria Height of the structure Stability of the structure Creativity & Innovation Materials Provided Three A3 sheet of paper per team RulerART EVOLUTION: PAST MEETS DIGITALTimeOnline EventGrades applicableGrades 4 & 5 - Category 1Type of eventIndividual and Online - To be submitted prior to the event by 20.09.2026Objective Reimagine the past through a digital lens! Participants will creatively recreate and reinterpret a recognisable artwork, art form or cultural motif and transform it into a new and contemporary digital creation. Inspired by Chrysalis, the challenge celebrates artistic transformation and emergence as students explore how an existing idea can evolve into something new.

Guidelines This is a solo event. Choose a recognisable artwork, art form or cultural motif as inspiration. Use digital tools or applications to recreate and reinterpret the chosen inspiration. The final artwork must demonstrate a clear transformation or contemporary interpretation. Entries must be submitted according to the instructions and timeline provided by the organisers. Judging Criteria Choice of Inspiration Creativity Digital Interpretation Relevance to the theme ‘Chrysalis’ Presentation & Explanation Materials Required to create the Art Laptop, tablet or computer Digital design application Stylus or mouse Reference images, if required

Objective Imagine life in the future! Participants will explore how continued changes in the Earth's environment could influence the evolution and adaptation of living organisms. They will imagine a future scenario, identify the challenges organisms may face, and creatively design how an animal, bird or other organism could evolve to survive and meet its changing needs. Inspired by Chrysalis, the challenge encourages students to connect environmental change, adaptation and evolution while imagining how life could transform in the future. Guidelines Individual participation. Participants will be given a future environmental scenario or challenge. Imagine the Earth approximately 100 years into the future based on the given scenario. Select or design an organism and illustrate how it could evolve and adapt to survive in these future conditions. The design should show specific physical or functional adaptations that help the organism survive or meet its needs. Include brief labels or notes explaining the adaptations and their purpose. Participants will be given a fixed time to complete their work. Participants should be prepared to briefly explain their design and the evolutionary adaptations to the judges.Time9.30 AM – 10.45 AMGradesGrades 6, 7 and 8 - Category 2Type of EventIndividual – On-the-Spot ChallengeCategory 2 Events BEHIND THE BREAKTHROUGH

Judging Criteria Scientific Reasoning & Plausibility Creativity & Originality Adaptation to Future Conditions Connection to Chrysalis Explanation & Presentation Materials Provided Future environmental scenario cards Drawing sheets Materials to be Brought Pencils and erasers Colour pencils Sketch pens or markers Ruler/scaleTHE SHAPE OF TRANSFORMATIONTime9.30 AM – 10.45 AMGrades applicableGrade 6,7 and 8 - Category 2Type of eventGroup Event (2 Participants) | On-the- Spot EventObjective Transform the ordinary into something extraordinary! Teams will use waste, recycled or biodegradable materials to create an installation that represents transformation, growth and change. Inspired by Chrysalis, participants will give discarded materials a new purpose and identity, creatively representing the journey from one form or stage to another.

Guidelines Each team must consist of 2 participants. The installation must clearly represent transformation, growth, adaptation, evolution or emergence. Only waste, recycled or biodegradable materials may be used. Teams may use different artistic forms such as sculpture, collage or interactive elements. The installation should demonstrate a clear transformation from one stage or form to another. A short written explanation of the concept and choice of materials must accompany the work. The installation must be completed within the allotted time. Judging Criteria Creativity & Originality Relevance to the Theme: Chrysalis Innovative use of materials Aesthetic appeal & craftsmanship Clarity of concept & explanation. Materials to be Brought As applicable and required by the team. Waste or recycled materials Biodegradable materials Cardboard and paper Fabric scraps Plastic bottles or bottle caps Newspapers Other safe reusable materials Stationery and craft materials

ART EVOLUTION: PAST MEETS DIGITALTimeOnline EventGrades applicableGrade 6,7 and 8 - Category 2Type of eventIndividual and Online - To be submitted prior to the event by 20.09.2026Objective Reimagine the past through a digital lens! Participants will creatively recreate and reinterpret a recognisable artwork, art form or cultural motif, transforming it into a new and contemporary digital creation. Inspired by Chrysalis, the challenge celebrates artistic transformation and emergence as students explore how an existing idea can evolve into something new. Guidelines Individual participation. Choose a recognisable artwork, art form or cultural motif as inspiration. Use digital tools or applications to recreate and reinterpret the chosen inspiration. The final artwork must demonstrate a clear transformation or contemporary interpretation. Entries must be submitted according to the instructions and timeline provided by the organisers. Judging Criteria Choice of Inspiration Creativity Digital Interpretation Relevance to the theme ‘Chrysalis’ Presentation & Explanation

Materials Required to create the Art Laptop, tablet or computer Digital design application Stylus or mouse Reference images, if requiredCategory 3 Events REBUILD THE FUTURE ART EVOLUTION: PAST MEETS DIGITALTime11.00 AM – 12.15 PMGradesGrades 9 & 10 - Category 3Type of eventIndividual - On The Spot eventObjective Participants are given a familiar everyday object and a future-world scenario. They must redesign the object to suit the new conditions. Scenarios could include humans living underwater, extreme climate conditions, life on another planet, or a world without electricity. Participants must explain how and why their design has transformed to meet the new needs. Guidelines Individual participation. All participants receive the same everyday object (eg: a standard backpack or water bottle or radio), but pick a random Future Scenario Card (eg: Sub-Zero Climate, Underwater City, Off-Grid/No Electricity, Mars Habitat). Identify a problem or limitation and develop an innovative solution. The solution must demonstrate creativity, practicality and sustainability. Ideas will be presented through a concept sketch and labelled design. (No physical models or 3D prototypes will be built).

The solution must demonstrate creativity, practicality and sustainability. Ideas will be presented through a concept sketch and labelled design. (No physical models or 3D prototypes will be built). Participants will be given a fixed time to complete the challenge and briefly present their idea to the judges. Submission Deliverable: One A3 Design Sheet containing: 1.Main Concept Illustration: A clear, detailed drawing of the redesigned object. 2.Labels: Pointer lines highlighting key futuristic features, internal mechanisms, and material choices. 3.Scenario Impact Note: A short written paragraph on the sheet explaining how and why the design adapts to the scenario's constraints. Judging Criteria Problem-Solving Sustainability Relevance to the Theme Presentation & Communication Materials Provided Challenge prompt cards A3 Drawing sheets Materials to be Brought by Students: Tape, glue, scissors and markers Basic stationery and craft materials

RANGOMETRYTime10.30 AM – 11.30 AMGradesGrades 9 & 10 - Category 3Type of EventGroup Event – 2 Participants per TeamObjective Transform mathematics into art! Teams will create a kolam or rangoli design using one or more mathematical transformations. Inspired by Chrysalis, participants will explore how patterns, shapes and mathematical concepts can transform and emerge into a creative visual artwork. Guidelines Each team will consist of 2 participants. Participants must choose a kolam or rangoli design as their starting point. The design must incorporate one or more of the following mathematical transformations: Translation – moving shapes in a specific direction Enlargement – increasing the size of shapes Rotation – turning shapes around a point Reflection – flipping shapes across a line The transformation must be clearly visible in the final design. Participants are encouraged to create a unique and visually engaging design. The final kolam/rangoli must be completed within the allotted time. In case of a tie, the team that finishes first will be considered.

Judging Criteria Accuracy & Precision Application of Mathematical Concepts Creativity & Visual Appeal Connection to Chrysalis Materials to be Brought Sustainable materials such as rangoli powder, small pebbles, coloured sand or other eco-friendly materials required to create the final kolam/rangoli.REEL OF TRANSFORMATIONTimeOnline EventGrades applicableGrades 9 & 10 - Category 3Type of eventGroup Event (2 participants) event and Online - To be submitted prior to the event by 20.09.2026Objective Bring transformation to life through stop-motion! Teams will create a one-minute visual reel that tells the story of how a person, object, idea, living thing or environment changes and emerges into something new. Inspired by Chrysalis, the challenge encourages participants to creatively capture the stages of growth, adaptation, evolution and transformation through engaging visual storytelling. Guidelines Each team must have 2 participants. Maximum duration: 1 minute. Any suitable video-making technique or platform may be used. Stop-motion is optional.

Videos may include voice-over, dialogue, sound effects or background music. Participants may use live action, animation, drawings, models, objects or digital elements. The video should clearly communicate the journey of transformation. Submit the final video in MP4 format before the specified deadline. Judging Criteria Creativity & Originality Relevance to Chrysalis Visual Storytelling Technical Execution Overall Presentation Materials to be used Mobile phone, tablet or camera; video-making/editing platform; props, models, drawings or digital elements; voice-over, sound effects or music, if required.REBUILD THE FUTURETime11.00 AM – 12.15 PMGradesGrades 9 & 10 - Category 3Type of eventIndividual - On The Spot eventObjective Reimagine today for a better tomorrow! Participants will redesign an everyday object, space or system to make it more useful, sustainable and future-ready. Inspired by Chrysalis, the challenge encourages students to transform familiar ideas into innovative solutions through creativity, critical thinking and design thinking.

Guidelines Individual participation. Each participant will receive an object, space, system or real-world scenario to redesign. Identify a problem or limitation and develop an innovative solution. The solution must demonstrate creativity, practicality and sustainability. Ideas may be presented through a concept sketch, labelled design, model or simple prototype. Include short notes explaining the features and purpose of the redesigned solution. Participants will be given a fixed time to complete the challenge and briefly present their idea to the judges. Judging Criteria Problem-Solving Sustainability Relevance to the Theme Presentation & Communication Materials Provided Challenge prompt cards Drawing sheets or chart paper Basic stationery and craft materials Cardboard and paper Recycled materials Craft sticks, straws, string and bottle caps Tape, glue, scissors and markers

BATTLE-ONTime11.00 AM – 12.15 PMGradesGrades 9 & 10 - Category 3Type of eventGroup (Team of 3) Stage EventObjective Participants will engage in a STEAM-based debate, presenting logical and evidence-backed arguments on real-world issues. The event encourages critical thinking, communication and creativity while exploring how ideas, technologies and societies transform and adapt. Inspired by Chrysalis, participants will examine different perspectives on change, innovation and the opportunities and challenges that emerge through transformation. How the Awards Work Three awards will be presented to recognise individual excellence across the following areas: The Eloquent Speaker Award – For excellence in style, confidence and delivery. The STEAM Scholar Award – For strong scientific connections and logical reasoning. The Visionary Thinker Award – For innovation, creativity and original perspectives. Guidelines Each team consists of 3 speakers. Each speaker will have 2 minutes of speaking time. An alarm will be given after 2 minutes. After 2 minutes and 30 seconds, no additional points will be considered. Discussions are allowed between team members during transitions between speakers.

Debate Sequence: 1.Proposition 1 – Opposition 1 2.Proposition 2 – Opposition 2 3.Proposition 3 – Opposition 3 Arguments must demonstrate clarity, logic, originality and relevant STEAM connections. Teams must maintain respectful conduct throughout the event. Judging Criteria Style: Confidence, clarity, delivery and audience engagement. Scientific Connections: Logical reasoning and relevance to STEAM concepts. Innovation & Creativity: Original ideas and creative perspectives on the topic.REEL OF TRANSFORMATIONTimeOnline EventGrades applicableGrades 9 & 10 - Category 3Type of eventGroup Event (2 participants) event and Online - To be submitted prior to the event by 20.09.2026Objective Bring transformation to life through stop-motion! Teams will create a one- minute visual reel that tells the story of how a person, object, idea, living thing or environment changes and emerges into something new. Inspired by Chrysalis, the challenge encourages participants to creatively capture the stages of growth, adaptation, evolution and transformation through engaging visual storytelling.

Guidelines Each team must have 2 participants. Maximum duration: 1 minute. Any suitable video-making technique or platform may be used. Stop-motion is optional. Videos may include voice-over, dialogue, sound effects or background music. Participants may use live action, animation, drawings, models, objects or digital elements. The video should clearly communicate the journey of transformation. Submit the final video in MP4 format before the specified deadline. Judging Criteria Creativity & Originality Relevance to Chrysalis Visual Storytelling Technical Execution Overall Presentation Materials to be used Mobile phone, tablet or camera; video-making/editing platform; props, models, drawings or digital elements; voice-over, sound effects or music, if required.

LADY ANDAL SCHOOLA UNIT OF THE MADRAS SEVA SADANSHENSTONE PARK, 7, HARRINGTON ROAD, CHETPET, CHENNAI