Posters are an amalgam of notices, advertisements, and invitations. They may be in the form of large hoardings to be put up on walls, or the size of handbills to be displayed on the noticeboards, etc. Hence, they have to be captivating, attractive and persuasive so as to influence a large number of people. Generally, they are designed to create social awareness about current issues, or to even extend public invitations and write notices.
Basic English Grammar rules can be tricky. In this article, we’ll get you started with the basics of sentence structure, punctuation, parts of speech, and more.
Poster Writing Topics for Class 11 Format, Examples PDF
How to write a poster:
Slogan-like constructions are given preference over complete sentences.
The slogans may be arranged in any shape.
You may use just one sketch or diagram.
Draw a box outside the text of your poster.
You may have seen posters with many pictures, but you will get marks only on how effectively you convey your message.
A poster may or may not have a heading.
Usually, a poster ends with the name of the individual or organization
Important
brevity
clarity
attractiveness
Use visuals/pictures to create interest and get the message across – the visual/colours must add to and not detract from the message.
Arrange content in a pleasing, readable way – the poster’s wordings should be centred in an appealing manner.
The first line should introduce the purpose of the poster. For example, a health mela, a school fete.
Mention relevant contact details.
Include other details that would arouse the interest of the reader.
The name and address of the issuing organisation must be clear.
Catchy slogans/captions can be used to make the message effective.
ISSUING AUTHORITY
PURPOSE (Drama/Exhibition/Workshop etc.)
VISUAL
Chief Guest
Esteemed Guests
DATE
TIME
VENUE
Poster Writing Sample Examples for Class 11 CBSE
Your school is organising a fete to collect funds for victims of a flood. Put up a poster near the gate to inform as many people as you can.
Your school is celebrating Charles Dickens’ bicentennial by organising a Dickens Week. Design a poster for the same.
Water is precious and each one of us must stop its wastage. Prepare a poster in not more than 50 words urging people to employ various methods of rainwater harvesting in their colonies.
Poster Writing Practice Examples for Class 11 CBSE
Repeated earthquakes in India and elsewhere have resulted in unprecedented damage and destruction to both life and property. Educating people on the precautions to be taken is the need of the hour. Prepare a poster, in not more than 50 words, for creating this awareness.
As Secretary of the Environment Club of his school, Abhinav Shrestha of Class XI A is designing a poster to inform the students about giving up on crackers during Diwali. Help him design the poster.
Your school is celebrating Sir Arthur Conan Doyle Week. As Secretary of the Cultural Club, design a poster to inform the students of the same. Give the necessary details.
Design a poster with the theme “Biodiversity in the changing climate”.
How are lifestyle changes and climate change-related? Design a poster to bring out the relationship.
“Climate change and the world in 2050″. Design a poster on the theme.
The following passage has not been edited. There is an erpr in each line against which a blank is given. Write the incorrect word and the corrected word in your answer sheet against the blank as given in the example. Underline the corrected word that has been supplied.
Editing Exercises for Class 10 CBSE With Answers PDF Download
Basic English Grammar rules can be tricky. In this article, we’ll get you started with the basics of sentence structure, punctuation, parts of speech, and more.
1. The following paragraph has not been edited. There is an error in each line. Write the error as well as the correction as shown in the example. Do any four. (1/2 x 6 = 3 marks)
Error
Correction
In the prisoner’s room a candle is
e.g.
Is
was
was burning dimly. A prisoner himself
(a)
……………………..
……………………..
sat by the table. Only him back,
(b)
……………………..
……………………..
the hair by his head, and his
(c)
……………………..
……………………..
hands are visible from outside
(d)
……………………..
……………………..
through any window.
(e)
……………………..
……………………..
Answer: Error – Correction
(a) A – The
(b) him – his
(c) by – on
(d) are – were
(e) any – the
2. The following passage has not been edited. There is one error in each of the lines. Write the incorrect word and the correction in your answer sheets. Remember to underline the word that you have supplied. (1/2 x 6 = 3 marks)
The body could be consider a permanent furnace.
(a)
………………………..
The food we take in is fuel, who the body bums up.
(b)
………………………..
In these process, about 2,500 calories are used
(c)
………………………..
every day in the body. This is enough heat to bring 23 litres
(d)
………………………..
of water to boiling point! Perspiration are one of the
(e)
………………………..
ways to keep our body‘furnace’ in normal temperature.
(f)
………………………..
3. The following passage has not been edited. There is one error in each of the lines. Write the incorrect word and the correction in your answer sheets. Remember to underline the word that you have supplied. (1/2 x 6 = 3 marks)
At Haridwar begin the milking of the Ganges.
(a)
………………………..
Canals take off in different directions, left just a trickle
(b)
………………………..
in the main stream. One canal is use to produce electric power,
(c)
………………………..
another goes to irrigation thirsty flatlands of UP.
(d)
………………………..
A water of these canals or that running in taps is not
(e)
………………………..
sacred; those privilege is reserved only for the main river.
(f)
………………………..
4. The following passage has not been edited. There is one error in each of the lines. Write the incorrect word and the correction in your answer sheets. Remember to underline the word that you have supplied. (1/2 x 6 = 3 marks)
Siegfried was the heroes of several legends of Germany
(a)
………………………..
and Scandinavia. He is also the main character in Wagners
(b)
………………………..
opera The Ring of the Nibelung, whom is based on these legends.
(c)
………………………..
In Wagner’s version, any dwarfs take treasure from the Rhine and
(d)
………………………..
make it upto a magic ring. Whoever owns that ring controls the
(e)
………………………..
world, but it is stolen at a dragon. Siegfried defeats the dragon.
(f)
………………………..
5. The following passage has not been edited. There is one error in each of the lines. Write the incorrect word and the correction in your answer sheets. Remember to underline the word that you have supplied. (1/2 x 6=3 marks)
Error
Correction
Since I has nothing else to do, hence
(a)
……………………..
……………………..
I am a ragpicker scrounging in
(b)
……………………..
……………………..
bins and heaps. I know if this is .
(c)
……………………..
……………………..
the only means for survival for me. I hail
(d)
……………………..
……………………..
from the streets of Dhaka. We lived under
(e)
……………………..
……………………..
the leaking roofs. Garbage have different meaning to us, I find sometimes a rupee in it.
(f)
……………………..
……………………..
Answer: Incorrect – Correct
(a) has – have
(b) in – the
(c) if – that
(d) for – of
(e) lived – live
(f) have – has
6. The following passage has not been edited. There is one error in each of the lines. Write the incorrect word and the correction in your answer sheets. Remember to underline the word that you have supplied. (1/2 x 6 = 3 marks)
Industrial and urbanisation have resulted in profound
(a)
………………………..
deteriorating of India’s air quality. Of the 3 million premature
(b)
………………………..
deaths in the world that occur each year because to outdoor
(c)
………………………..
and indoor air pollution, the high number have been assessed
(d)
………………………..
to occur in India. According to a World Health Organisation,
(e)
………………………..
New Delhi is all of the top ten most polluted cities in the world.
(f)
………………………..
7. The following passage has not been edited. There is one error in each of the lines. Write the incorrect word and the correction in your answer sheets. Remember to underline the word that you have supplied. (1/2 x 6 = 3 marks)
Crackers show opulence, but resulting in noise or air pollution.
(a)
………………………..
Commercialization of every festival have taken the attention away
(b)
………………………..
from what that festivals was actually meant to achieve, and the
(c)
………………………..
special foods and cultures associated with them. The few people
(d)
………………………..
realize this, and they are working towards presenting option
(e)
………………………..
of celebrating at traditional, yet eco-friendly ways.
(I)
………………………..
8. The following passage has not been edited. There is one error in each of the lines. Write the incorrect word and the correction in your answer sheets. Remember to underline the word that you have supplied. (1/2 x 6 = 3 marks)
A curious thing about the developed of motion pictures
(a)
………………………..
is that the first groups of people who made it possible
(b)
………………………..
were not interested in movies at all! The first invents
(c)
………………………..
were make by men who wanted to study the movement
(d)
………………………..
of animals. Even Thomas Edison, which perfected a device
(e)
………………………..
called kinetoscope in 1893, think of it only as a curiosity.
(f)
………………………..
9. The following passage has not been edited. There is one error in each of the lines. Write the incorrect word and the correction in your answer sheets. Remember to underline the word that you have supplied. (1/2 x 6 = 3 marks)
UFOs may be foods for comedians but there was
(a)
………………………..
no joking while a group of former pilots recounted
(b)
………………………..
see strange phenomena in the sky and demanded an
(c)
………………………..
investigation of the phenomenon. Several pilots offer
(d)
………………………..
dramatic account including the report of a transparent
(e)
………………………..
flying disc and a mysterious triangular shapes spacecraft.
(f)
………………………..
10. The following passage has not been edited. There is one error in each of the lines. Write the incorrect word and the correction in your answer sheets. Remember to underline the word that you have supplied. (1/2 x 6 = 3 marks)
An oil tanker become stuck on a reef in Alaska. The rocks
(a)
………………………..
in the reef tear a hole in the ship. From the hole, a lot of oil
(b)
………………………..
spill into the ocean. A person from the oil company said that
(c)
………………………..
they are trying to cleaning it up as fast as they could. They would
(d)
………………………..
pay for the entire clean up. A person who lives their said that
(e)
………………………..
they were told they will never saw this kind of a problem again.
Letter writing is an essential skill. Despite the prevalence of emails and text messages, everyone has to write letters at some point. Letters of complaint, job applications, thank you letters, letters requesting changes or – making suggestions – the list goes on and on. Encouraging children to write letters from an early age will improve their communication, social and handwriting skills, and teach them what they need to know about writing and structuring letters.
Children are expected to learn how to write letters, notes and messages. They have to be aware of different styles of writing, the use of formal and informal letters, and to select style and vocabulary appropriate to the intended reader.
Basic English Grammar rules can be tricky. In this article, we’ll get you started with the basics of sentence structure, punctuation, parts of speech, and more.
Informal Letter Writing Topics for Class 10 CBSE Format, Samples PDF
A letter is a form of communication in writing or printed on paper, addressed to a person or body of persons. Typical informal contexts include that of writing to family members, relatives and friends, and even to acquaintances.
Format:
Sender’s address
Date
Dear ………………………………..,
The writing style of an informal letter is exactly that – informal. It will be influenced by the person you are writing to – a letter to an aunt or grandmother will be friendly and warm, but you will probably pay more attention to grammatically correct expressions and appropriate language. On the other hand, a letter to a friend may include the latest slang.
The tone in an informal letter is usually conversational and friendly but it also depends on the writer’s intention. A letter expressing your disappointment at a friend’s behaviour at a party may have a serious tone, but a letter describing an exciting holiday will reflect an entertaining, light, happy tone.
Involve the reader by conveying the enthusiasm you feel.
Joke about/refer to personal matters, for example, how are you coping with
Refer to a memory.
Inquire, persuade, seek information or ask for advice.
Try not to use cliches like: I am well and hope you are sailing in the same boat, etc./Convey my regards to all and sundry.
End with Yours sincerely/Yours affectionately/Your loving daughter/son, etc.
Sample Informal Letter
You are Sukesh/Suman of F-64, Mayur Vihar, Delhi. Your friend from Kolkata has invited you to visit him/ her after your examinations are over. Write a letter to her/him expressing your inability to reach there.
Informal Letter Writing Topics Solved Example for Class 10 CBSE
Diagnostic Test – 4
You are Pankaj/Priyanka, living in the students’ hostel of Oxford School, Mumbai. Write a letter to your brother, telling him of an interesting weekend you spent at your friend’s house.
Room No 5, Students’ Hostel
(a) ………………………………..
Mumbai
6 March 20 xxDear Kamal,
I received your letter and was delighted to learn that you have been offered a job with a reputed company as a Computer Instructor.As you know, we have a five-day week in our school with weekends being off. Practically, we are (b) ……………………………….., but last weekend, (c) ……………………………….. to attend his brother’s wedding. This is the first time I attended a Gujarati wedding. I spent a very enjoyable (d) ………………………………. . There was a lot of (e) ………………………………. . Rajat’s parents gave me (f) ………………………………. .Sadly, the weekend came to an end way too soon.
With love to all,
Pankaj/Priyanka
Answer:
(a) Cambridge Mission school
(b) free on weekends and get bored
(c) my best friend, Jignesh, invited me
(d) time over there
(e) celebrations, dance, music, and fun
(f) traditional sweets and a nice gift too.
Informal Letter Writing Topics Practice Example for Class 10 CBSE
3.2.1 While reading a magazine you came across some addresses of children from the United States desirous of having pen-friends in India. You decided to write to Cody Stewart as your interests are quite similar. As Preeti Sinha of B-97/5, Model Town, Patna, compose a letter describing yourself to your new pen-friend in around 120 words.
3.2.2 Your Uncle sent you a set of the Harry Potter series for your birthday. Write a letter in around 120 words thanking him for the gift. You are Rohini of 45, Uday Park, Ahmedabad.
3.2.3 Your friend, Sunita, has shifted to Vadodra due to the transfer of her father. Write a letter telling her about anything of interest that has happened during her absence. You are Shalini of 116 Civil Lines, Jhansi. Do not exceed 120 words.
3.2.4 Your friend Sonia has recently shifted to Kolkata due to the transfer of her father. You have recently received a letter from her telling you about her new school.
……………. I miss you all very much. I have joined New Era School here and although the teachers are very helpful and concerned I haven’t really settled down. One reason is that I haven’t made any new friends. The girls here are so unfriendly and unhelpful …………………….. .
Write a letter in around 120 words to Sonia advising her to make friends and settle down in the new place. You are Srishti of 34/J, Malviya Nagar, Jaipur.
3.2.5 Your younger brother, Ravi, who is in a hostel is not doing very well in studies. He whiles away his time with his friends and has secured poor marks in his examination. Write a letter advising him to pay more attention to his studies. You are Margaret of 9, Gangenahalli main road, Bengaluru.
Discursive writing: expresses opinions. It can be argumentative, i.e. may give reasons, explanations, or explore cause and effect relationship. Passages of this kind are analytical. Sometimes the author presents his views with great depth of reasoning or force of argument with the intention of convincing the reader to his point of view. Such texts have great persuasive power.
Basic English Grammar rules can be tricky. In this article, we’ll get you started with the basics of sentence structure, punctuation, parts of speech, and more.
Unseen Passage For Class 10 Discursive CBSE With Answers
1. Read the passage given below and answer the questions that follow.
1. It is an indisputable fact that the world has gone too far with the innovation of new technologies such as mobile phones, the Internet and so on, due to which people are able to tour the cosmos virtually sitting at one place using their smart devices or other technological gadgets. Though mobile internet access is oftentimes hurried and short, it can still provide common internet features like alerts, weather data, emails, search engines, instant messages, and games and music downloading.
2. Due to the easy access of smart phones, communication has been very effective and instant. People are able to convey their message all around the globe to their loved ones without spending hefty sums of money. Adults are always fond of such gadgets and they always welcome and adopt such new technology readily. Further, young people have been able to broaden their minds and improve their skills by doing research on the Internet. For instance, they use smart phones to look up any new word they come across. As we know that most of the universities have online teaching provision and smart phones assist the students to complete their assignments on time.
3. The mobile phone has been a lifesaver for a lot of people in case of an emergency. Likewise, the use of smartphones can be of vital importance in preventing crimes in society by providing information to the security forces in time.
4. Nonetheless, for the young the use of mobile phones can be like an addiction and they can misuse it. Young people are also prone to getting involved in undesirable activities on the Internet. This might have an adverse effect on their academic performance. Therefore, young people should always be monitored and made aware of its bad outcomes.
5. Also a major contributor to its popularity is the availability of prepaid or pay–as–you–go services from a phone shop or an online store. This allows subscribers to load text or airtime credits to their handsets by the use of their credit cards, debit cards or by buying a prepaid card from the network they subscribe to. This plan also doesn’t commit a particular customer to a contract. If prepaid card is not that appealing to you, then you can opt to subscribe using the pay–by–month plan.
1.1. On the basis of your reading of the passage, answer the following questions in 30–40 words each:
(a) How are smartphones helpful in communication?
(b) What are the benefits of mobile phones for the young generation?
(c) How can mobile phones be considered “lifesavers’?
(d) Mention any two demerits of mobile phones.
Answer:
(a) Communication has become very effective and instant due to smartphones. People are able to convey their messages all around the globe to their loved ones without spending hefty sums of money.
(b) Mobile phones have been beneficial to the younger generation as they have been able to broaden their minds and improve their skills by doing research on the Internet. They use smartphones to look up any new word they come across.
(c) Mobile phones can be considered lifesavers as they are of great use during an emergency. They help prevent crimes in the society by providing timely information to the police and security forces.
(d) Two demerits of mobile phones:
(i) Due to mobile phones young people can get involved in undesirable activities on the Internet.
(ii) They get addicted and their academic performance suffers.
1.2 On the basis of your reading of the passage, answer of the following:
(a) In para 1, the synonym of ‘innovation’ is ……………………
(i) production
(ii) sincerity
(iii) invention
(iv) prevention
Answer:
(iii) invention
(b) In para 4, the antonym of ‘favourable’ is ……………………
(i) positive
(ii) prone
(iii) outcomes
(iv) adverse
Answer:
(iv) adverse
(c) Grown-ups should not monitor the use of new technology by young people. (True/False)
Answer:
False
(d) Mobile internet can provide access to ……………………
Answer:
emails
2. Read the passage given below and answer the questions that follow.
1. A lot of childhood memories revolve around zoo visits which then was a source of entertainment and amusement, though now one wonders whether it is right to keep animals thus caged.
2. It is wrong to keep animals in captivity in zoos. Like human beings, even animals have a right to stay in their natural habitat, which they are deprived of when they are taken to a zoo. The vastness of the natural habitat cannot be recreated in the zoo. The area restriction also does not allow them to roam about with their family in large herds and they are kept alone or in pairs.
3. Wild animals are bom with survival skills which ensure that they possess the innate instinct to hunt and kill which makes sure that they survive in the forest. But when they are captured and enclosed in cages in zoos, these instincts slowly disappear due to inaction.
4. Cleanliness of the zoo is another major concern and animals have to live in dirty, unhygienic and cramped conditions, opposed to the natural green environment of the forest where waste is automatically decomposed and recycled. Thus they are prone to various diseases and die early due to lack of proper medical facilities.
5. Although there are many disadvantages of keeping animals in a zoo, it is also true that zoos protect certain animals from other wild animals in the forest. Thus they are an important means to conserve species of animals which are nearing extinction. Zoos provide an opportunity for researchers to observe the behavioural patterns of these animals and then plan on a strategy which would ensure their survival.
6. Zoos also provide a source of education and information to children. A visit to a zoo can help a child get acquainted with various species of animals and understand the importance and value of animals in the ecosystem.
7. The debate over whether zoos are good or bad cannot have a proper conclusion. It is tme that by keeping animals in captivity, we are depriving them of their freedom but it is also tme that we have managed to save members of a few species only by keeping them in under observation in zoos.
2.1 Answer the following questions based on facts from the passage given above.
(a) State some disadvantages of zoos.
(i) ……………………………………………… .
(ii) ……………………………………………… .
(iii) ……………………………………………… .
(iv) ……………………………………………… .
(v) ……………………………………………… .
(vi) malnourished animals
(b) Lists a few advantages of zoos.
(i) protects animals from other animals
(ii) ……………………………………………… .
(iii) ……………………………………………… .
(iv) ……………………………………………… .
3. Read the passage given below and answer the questions that follow.
1. What is intelligence? And how can one be intelligent all the time? One has to understand the basic fact that intelligence and intellect are at two opposite poles. A person who is an intellectual would have all the knowledge of the world but won’t know how to give it shape. Knowledge burdens the individual if he does not have the intelligence to express it.
2. Intelligence is an integral part of the individual which finds fulfilment in expression. An intellectual who is burdened by excessive knowledge can never flow with intelligence. Intelligence demands that an individual be sensitive of his acts, thoughts and emotions. It also demands that the individual be inquisitive about the working of life and of one’s own mind.
3. Intelligence implies that the individual be supple and flow along with life’s source, so as to be one with the sublime realities of love, bliss and peace. Intelligence is the basic knowledge of life which is transformed into knowing.
4. The transformation process between knowledge and knowing requires the individual to be inquisitive, sensitive and observant. To do all this, the individual has to be in the present. This being in the present brings the individual back to harmony. Only meditation helps the individual to be in the present moment. He can then observe his own thoughts and actions.
5. Once he is able to observe his own thoughts and actions, he can see his repressions, motivations and prejudices. This sets into motion the wheel of intelligence, which dispels ignorance behind thoughts, actions and emotions.
6. Intelligence strengthens the integration and harmony of the individual. Strength to act intelligently according to the situation helps in obliterating thought processes which perpetuate fear, remorse and conflict within.
7. This conscious understanding of one’s fear, remorse and conflict opens the doors of intelligence so that we can first understand and then transcend them. Otherwise, we remain in a state of ignorance. The art of understanding is what suffuses us with wisdom.
8. And the art of understanding oneself provides strength. The art of being wise and strong is intelligence. Without this basic intelligence, an individual is tapped within himself manifesting inner conflicts, hatred and ignorance in the external world.
9. Meditation also helps a person understand what others are trapped in. Once they handle the situation, the doors of intelligence and compassion are further opened. Without basic understanding about oneself, compassion can never flower. Without compassion, all intelligence is ignorance.
10. Meditation, therefore, provides the necessary strength to surrender to oneself and be with oneself. And this being with oneself without remorse, guilt or fear makes one intelligent and capable of acting rightly.
3.1. On the basis of your reading of the passage, answer the following questions in 30–40 words each:
(a) Bring out the difference between intellect and intelligence.
(b) Mention any two traits of intelligent people.
(c) How does being intelligent help an individual?
(d) How can intelligence become ignorance?
Answer:
(a) Intellect is the knowledge one possesses. An intellectual has the entire knowledge of the world but the ability to apply this knowledge is intelligence. Intellectuals therefore, may not be intelligent.
(b) Intelligent people are sensitive to their acts, thoughts, emotions and surroundings. They not only understand their own emotions but are sensitive to others’ feelings as well.
(c) Being intelligent helps an individual to strengthen himself. He is in harmony with himself and with the world around. It helps the individual act according to the situation and removes fear.
(d) Intelligence becomes ignorance when an individual is not able to handle situations. Intelligence becomes ignorance also when one lacks compassion and understanding of oneself.
3.2. On the basis of your reading of the passage, answer of the following:
(a) In para 1, the antonym of ‘relief’ is ………………………… .
(i) express
(ii) intellect
(iii) heaviness
(iv) burden
Answer:
(iv) burden
(b) In para 7, the synonym of ‘infuse’ is ………………………… .
(i) intelligence
(ii) ignorance
(iii) suffuses
(iv) transcends
Answer:
(iii) suffuses
(c) Intellect is the basic knowledge of life which is transformed into knowledge. (True/False)
Answer:
False
(d) When an individual is unable to handle situations, intelligence becomes ………………………….
Answer:
ignorance
Type 2 Questions
1. Read the passage given below and answer the questions that follow.
1. Papaya is the healthiest fruit with a list of properties that is long and exhaustive. Mostly grown in the tropical regions of the world, papaya is generally considered a goldmine of nutrition, so much so that the famous explorer Christopher Columbus referred to it as the ‘fruit of the angels’.
2. Papaya is not just known as a delicious fruit but is also known for its medicinal and nutritional values. It is considered a storehouse of natural fibres, carotene, vitamin C, and essential minerals which lower the level of cholesterol and prevent heart diseases. It contains an important digestive enzyme called papain which helps in digestion. The enzyme is similar to pepsin in its digestive action and is said to be so powerful that it can digest 200 times its own weight in protein. It assists the body in assimilating the maximum nutritional value from food to provide energy and body-building materials.
3. Papain in raw papaya makes up for the deficiency of gastric juice and fights excess of unhealthy mucus in the stomach, dyspepsia, and intestinal irritation. The ripe fruit, if eaten regularly corrects habitual constipation, bleeding piles, and chronic diarrhea. The juiCe of the papaya seeds also assists in curing the above-mentioned ailments.
4. The juice, used as a cosmetic, removes freckles or brown spots due to exposure to sunlight and makes the skin smooth and delicate. A paste of papaya seeds is applied in skin diseases like those caused by ringworm. The black seeds of the papaya are highly beneficial in the treatment of cirrhosis of the liver caused by alcoholism. It is also believed that papaya seeds can also be used as an anti-inflammatory agent. A tablespoonful of its juice, combined with a hint of fresh lime juice, should be consumed once or twice daily for a month. The fresh juice of raw papaya mixed with honey can be applied over inflamed tonsils, for diphtheria and other throat disorders. It dissolves the membrane and prevents infection from spreading.
5. Papaya thus has a number of uses. You can munch on it as a salad, have it cooked or boiled, or just drink it in the form of a milkshake or juice.
1.1 Based on your reading of the passage, answer the following questions.
(a) Who named papaya the ‘fruit of the angels’ and why?
(b) What is the function of the enzyme papain?
(c) Does papaya has cholesterol-reducing properties? Why?
(d) How can papaya juice be used?
1.2 Select appropriate antonyms for the following words from the passage out of the options provided.
(a) What is the word used for ‘extensive’ as given in the passage?
(i) exhaustive
(ii) delicate
(iii) chronic
(iv) none of the above
(b) From the, given passage, which of the following words is a synonym of ‘integrate’?
(i) assimilate
(ii) process
(iii) separate
(iv) differentiate
(c) What does the word ‘enzyme’ mean in the given passage?
(i) a substance that brings out a specific biochemical reaction
(ii) a substance that hinders a specific biochemical reaction
(iii) a type of cell in the human body
(iv) none of the above
(d) What does the word ‘membrane’ mean as used in the passage?
(i) a lining or partition in an organism
(ii) an organ in an organism
(iii) a property of an organism
(iv) none of the above
1.1 Based on your reading of the passage, answer the following questions.
(a) What did Alfred Hitchcock’s style of film making comprise of?
(b) How did Alfred Hitchcock attain an interest in mystery and suspense?
(c) Why did Alfred Hitchcock join Paramount Studio?
(d) What all aspects of filmmaking did Hitchcock get involved in?
1.2 Select appropriate synonyms for the following words from the passage out of the options provided.
(a) vivid
(i) boring
(ii) striking
(iii) unimpressive
(iv) tedious
(b) unique
(i) common
(ii) aplenty
(iii) rare
(iv) similar
(c) detail
(i) minute
(ii) snippet
(iii) describe
(iv) summary
(d) agony
(i) pain
(ii) joy
(iii) happiness
(iv) celebration
2. Read the passage given below and answer the questions that follow.
1. When did you last see a good road in India? Like a really smooth road? Drivable, wide, nicely built and long, yawning, stretching so far that you want to zip on till eternity and loosen the gears and let the car fly! A road without squeeze or bump or gaping holes that pop up like blood-dripping kitchen knives in Ramsay Brothers films. When did you last see such roads?
2. Pakistan is full of such roads. Driving on the motorway between Islamabad and Lahore, I thought of the Indian politician who ruled a notorious—one could almost say viciously—potholed state and spoke of turning the roads so smooth that they would resemble the cheeks.of Hema Malini. They remained as dented as the face of Frankenstein’s monster. And here, in Pakistan, I was travelling on roads that—well, how can one now avoid this?—were as smooth as Hema Nfalini’s cheeks!
3. Pakistani roads are broad and smooth and almost entirely, magically, pothole flee. How do they do it; this country that is ostensibly so far behind in economic growth compared to India? But they do and one of my most delightful experiences in Pakistan has been travelling on its fabulous roads. No wonder the country is littered with SUVs—Pakistan has the roads for such cars!
4. Even in tiny Bajaur in the North West Frontier Province, hard hit by the Taliban, and a little more than a frontier post, the roads were smoother than many I know in India. Bajaur has a higher road density than India! If there is one thing we should learn from the Pakistanis, it is how to build roads. And oh, another thing, no one throws beer bottles or trash on the highways and motorways.
5. And oh, here’s the best thing. Indian rupee is worth almost double the Pakistani rupee, so everything is at a 50 per cent discount. Naturally, I love Pakistan!
2.1 Based on your reading of the passage, answer the following questions.
(a) In the opening paragraph, what does the narrator imply? .
(b) What does the narrator aim to signify using the example of Frankenstein’s monster?
(c) In spite of being economically backward, what does Pakistan have according to the author?
(d) State any two reasons why the author loves Pakistan.
2.2 Select appropriate antonyms for the following words from the passage out of the options provided.
(a) smooth
(i) coarse
(ii) plain
(iii) clear
(iv) bright
(b) notorious
(i) reputed
(ii) untrustworthy
(iii) discreditable
(iv) none of the above
(c) ostensibly
(i) clearly
(ii) apparently
(iii) There are no antonyms for ostensibly.
(iv) none of the above
(d) hard
(i) tough
(ii) rough
(iii) unbreakable
(iv) soft
3. Read the passage given below and answer the questions that follow.
1. After a hard day’s work you retire to your room, pick up a book and settle down for an hour of quietness, when suddenly the peace is shattered by loud music from a nearby marriage hall. You try not to let it bother you, but after a while you become angry. You clench your teeth. And then your fists. You throw the books down. You threaten to go down and cut their wires. Have you ever thought of this intrusion into your personal space as violence? And your own reaction, a violent one too?
2. For most of us, our personal space is sacred. Whether that space is a luxuriously quiet room, a table in the comer, or a moment of snatched solitude with a cup of coffee. The personal space we crave for, needs quietness and solitude. But, much of our space is violated by noise: ringing telephones which pierce our ears; blaring, deafening horns; loud, ear-splitting music; screeching of tyres; booming voices and so much more—lack of space, congested roads, narrow corridors, flats built so close to each other.
All of this violates our sense of space and need for site. Unable to bear the noise and the crowd, we turn into himsa people, snapping at each other.
3. Perhaps you may not have thought that inconsiderate interruptions, rummaging through drawers that are not yours, reading mail that doesn’t belong to you, listening at doors to private conversations as his behaviour. These acts are violations of space and privacy and so it is violence. When our personal space is disrupted, we become angry and this often leads to verbal or emotional violence.
4. A friend of mine needs to be alone in the front porch with his cigarette, coffee and newspaper. Nobody would dare disturb him first thing in the morning during his time of solitude. His wife’s space consists of watching her favourite TV serial at night. There have been many squabbles over this as he often interrupts her asking for a drink, or expecting her to search for something he has mislaid during that time. This insensitivity and lack of respect for her is a form of violence.
3.1 Based on your reading of the passage, answer the following questions.
(a) According to the writer, what does the loud music in the neighborhood represent?
(b) How does a man react when is exposed to noise and crowd?
(c) According to the writer, when does the husband in the fifth paragraph show himself!
(d) State a few ‘inconsiderate interruptions’ according to the author.
3.2 Select appropriate antonyms for the following words from the passage out of the options provided.
(a) What is the word used for ‘retreat’ as given in the passage?
(i) favourite
(ii) refresh
(iii) retire
(iv) ahimSa.
(b) What do -‘squabbles’ mean?
(i) a noisy quarrel
(ii) quiet disregard
(iii) dissatisfaction
(iv) none of the above
(c) What does the term ‘himsa’ mean in the passage?
(i) violent behaviour
(ii) non-violent behaviour
(iii) considerate behaviour
(iv) friendly behaviour
(d) What does the phrase; ‘inconsiderate interruptions’ mean in the passage?
(i) asking for advice
(ii) purposefully disturbing someone
(iii) disturbing someone without any consideration for their time
(iv) none of the above
4. Read the passage given below and answer the questions that follow.
1. Modem food has become our enemy. We have become so besotted by taste and presentation that we eat food for its entertainment value, not for its nutritional benefit. Each restaurant boasts of a new cuisine, which is a mixture of refined flour, oil and sugar. Pasta, noodles, white rice, white bread are the grain options in Italian, Chinese, Indian or Mexican cuisines. The vegetarian dishes are either overcooked or have a lot of com starch and fat. The non-vegetarian dishes are either white-sauce based or made in rich gravies.
2. People are trying to lose weight by eating less in the day, so that they can accommodate such food in the night. They skip breakfast and lunch so that they can satisfy their taste buds in the night with a family dinner.
3. Perfect health, however, cannot be achieved by a process of deprivation and elimination. The idea is to nourish the body. You might achieve some weight loss but’you will also lose out on your health.
4. For the past 15 years, I have been providing solutions to people suffering from obesity and its related problems like high cholesterol, hypertension, diabetes, osteoarthritis, asthma. I realized that by advising a health plan for these disorders, people lost excess baggage automatically. This means that weight loss can be a natural by-product of a health regime. You don’t have to eat less to lose weight, you just have to choose your food correctly. In fact the link between ideal body weight and health is so crucial that if one were to concentrate completely on achieving good health, one would automatically achieve some amount of weight loss.
5. Food influences almost every aspect of your being. It influences your nails, hair, skin, hormones, and bones. It balances your emotions, makes your mind sharp, influences your moods and helps you to deal with situations better. Just imagine, the milk that you drank yesterday will eventually become a part of your nails and bones. The vegetables that you eat will affect the texture of your skin. The fact that the right kinds of fats are essential to achieve good health comes as a surprise to many people. Fat is the raw material for many hormones.
4.1 Based on your reading of the passage, answer the following questions.
(a) Why has modem food become our enemy?
(b) What do people do to be able to eat food made of fat and starch?
(c) What leads to perfect health?
(d) List some obesity-related problems according to the author.
10.2 Select appropriate antonyms for the following words from the passage out of the options provided.
(a) modern
(i) contemporary
(ii) current
(iii) new
(iv) old-fashioned
(b) accommodate
(i) hinder
(ii) adjust
(iii) fit
(iv) none of the above
(c) high
(i) tall
(ii) towering
(iii) lofty
(iv) low
(d) many
(i) few
(ii) plenty
(iii) numerous
(iv) none of the above
Tenses: Verb tenses are tools that are used to express time. They refer to the time of action and tell the time and state of an action. present tense, past tense and future time refer to the time of action and tell the time and state of an action.
Basic English Grammar rules can be tricky. In this article, we’ll get you started with the basics of sentence structure, punctuation, parts of speech, and more.
Corresponding to the three divisions of time there are three tenses:
The present tense referring to present time
The past tense referring to past time
The future time referring to future time
Each tense has four forms:
Simple or Indefinite – It merely states an action or event. It does not say anything about the completeness of the action.
Continuous or Progressive – It indicates that an action is in progress at a given time and is incomplete at the point of reference.
Perfect – It indicates that the action is complete.
Perfect Continuous – It indicates that an action has been in progress for a period of time. Study the table for use of tenses given below.
Class 9 English Grammar Tenses Exercises Verb forms
Simple/Indefinite
Continuous
Perfect
Perfect Continuous
Present
I go for a walk.
I am going for a walk.
I have gone for a walk.
I have been going for a walk.
Past
I went for a walk.
I was going for a walk.
I had gone for a walk.
I had been going for a walk.
Future
. I will go for a walk.
I will be going for a walk.
I will have gone for a walk.
Present Tense
Simple Present
Usage. The Present Indefinite is used to
things happening in the present
For example, She teaches in a public school.
express a habitual action
For example, My servant gets up early daily.
express a universal truth.
For example, The Sun rises in the east.
express subordinate clause it the principal clause is the Future Indefinite tense.
For example, If she prepares well for the exams, she will not fail.
Words often used with the Present Indefinite: Always, daily, generally, seldom, never; sometimes, every.
Other uses of the Present Indefinite are:
With verbs of communication like advise, warn, instruction, etc:
Example: Everyone advises us when it comes to health issues.
As newspaper headlines:
Example: The actress commits suicide after a heated argument with her director.
In the present continuous tense that does not take the continuous form.
Example: The father smiled and said, “I see that you do not want to talk to me.”
In some conditional sentences:
Example: If I do not reach there on time please inform my parents.
In time frame clauses:
Example: I will leave as soon as my assistant arrives.
In exclamatory sentences:
Example: Here comes the groom!
To make future time reference when the event is part of a fixed timetable.
Example: This year Holi falls on a Saturday.
Use the correct form of the words given in brackets to complete the passages given below.
a. The phenomenon of female infanticide (a) ………………………. (be) as old as many cultures, and (b) ………………………. (has) likely accounted for millions of gender-selective deaths throughout history. It (c) ………………………. (remain) a critical concern in a number of Third World countries today, notably in the two most populous countries on earth, China and India. In all cases, specifically female infanticide (d) ………………………. (reflect) the low status accorded to women in most parts of the world. It is arguably the most brutal and destructive manifestation of the anti-female bias that (e) ………………………. (pervade) patriarchal societies. It is closely linked to the phenomenon of sex-selective abortion, which (f) ………………………. (target) the female foetus almost exclusively, and the neglect of the girl child.
b. Scientists studying the morphology of the human race (a) ………………………. (be) of the opinion that throughout the 200,000 years of the history of modem humans, we (b) ………………………. (be) the shortest, lightest and, the least robust. Even our brains are the smallest. Two hypotheses (c) ………………………. (has) been put forward to explain the reasons behind these reductions in size. The first one (d) ………………………. (be) that the nutritional stress after the start of the agricultural era some 10,000 years ago led to the reduction in the size of humans.
Mr. Maciej Henneberg of the University of Johannesburg (e) ………………………. (relate) the body size to the position of the earth in its orbit. He (f) ………………………. (say) that individuals born between February and July end up shorter and lighter than those born during the rest of the year.
Present Continuous
This form is used:
(a) is used to express an activity happening at the time of speaking.
Example:
The kids are watching TV.
(b) is used to express an activity happening around now but not necessarily at that very moment.
Example:
Vinay is studying very hard for his exams these days.
(c) is used to express activities happening in the near future especially a planned future event.
Example:
I am attending the meeting.
(d) is used with Always.
Example:
She is always telling lies.
(e) is used in a frequently repeated action.
Example:
Naresh is always falling sick.
(f) is used to express an action that appears to be continuous.
Example:
My grandfather is always sleeping.
Words often used with the Present Continuous Tense: ‘stift’, ‘now’, ‘nowadays’, ‘these days’, ‘at this time’, ‘at the moment’.
Use the correct form of the verbs given in brackets to complete the passage given below.
Shikha: What (a) ………………………. (be) all those children (b) ………………………. (do) in the middle of the playground? Why (c) ………………………. (be) they (d) ………………………. (play) during assembly time?
Kajol: They (e) ………………………. (practise) for a match. They (f) ………………………. (be) members of the school team.
Shikha: Does that mean they (g) ………………………. (go) to play a match today?
Kajol: Yes, they (h) ………………………. (be).
Use the correct form of the words given in brackets to complete the passage given below.
Meena: My daughter (a) ………………………. (not write) to me so I (b) ………………………. (not know) what she (c) ………………………. (do), (d) ………………………. (do) your son (e) ………………………. (write) to you?
Swati: Yes, he (f) ………………………. (write) twice a week. He (g) ………………………. (like) writing letters.
Present Perfect
This form is used:
(a) express an action recently completed, it is used with ‘just’.
Example:
The train has just arrived.
(b) describe an action which began in the past and continues up to the present moment, (using for, since, etc.)
Example:
I have not slept since the evening.
(c) describe the recent actions when the time is not known.
Example:
Have you seen the news on TV this morning?
(d) describe a past action which is important for its effect in the present and not in itself.
Example:
I have stopped smoking.
(e) describe the connection of the present with the distant past.
Example:
I have heard that the theatre has been closed, (hence I cannot go there)
Present Perfect Continuous
Usage. The Present Perfect Continuous is used to
(a) express an action that began in the past and has been in progress till the time of speaking.
Example:
We have been participating in the play for three years.
(b) express an action that finished just a short while ago.
Example:
Ramesh has been watching TV. (He has stopped watching now)
Use the correct form of the verbs given in brackets to complete the passage given below.
Bank clerk: Could you give me some proof of your identity?
Lady: But I (a) ………………………. (have) an account here for twenty-five years.
Bank clerk: I (b) ………………………. (know), Madam. But the bank (c) ………………………. (lose) a lot of money lately through fake accounts. The manager (d) ………………………. (make) new regulations and we (e) ………………………. (tell) to check the proof of identity for all account holders, no matter how long we (f) ………………………. (know) them.
Use the correct form of the words given in brackets to complete the passage given below.
It (a) ………………………. (take) a long time for a country to rebuild after an earthquake. There maybe aftershocks for many days. Rebuilding cannot start until all the aftershocks (b) ………………………. (stop). Aftershocks are small tremors that (c) ………………………. (shake) the ground after an earthquake. Sometimes, people (d) ………………………. (be) afraid to return to that area and (e) ………………………. (prefer) to settle elsewhere. Of course, many people (f) ………………………. (be) reluctant to leave the land of their ancestors.
Past Indefinite
This form is used to refer to:
(a) express an action that was completed at a definite point in the past.
Example :
I did not celebrate my birthday last year.
Yesterday, Reema visited her aunt.
(b) express a past habit or routine.
Example:
He used to eat with his left hand when he was young.
Past Continuous
This form is used:
(a) express an action in progress before the moment of speaking.
Example :
It was pouring heavily at 6 o’clock this morning.
(b) The time reference may be replaced with a verb in the simple past.
Example :
The phone rang when she was taking her food.
(c) Sometimes to indicate gradual development, when used with a time expression.
Example :
She was getting late.
(d) When two actions were going on simultaneously in the past.
Example :
While I was playing, my sister was studying.
(e) The past continuous is often used in descriptions.
Example :
I entered the classroom. The teacher was teaching and the students were listening.
Past Perfect
Usage. As in the Past Continuous Tense, here too there are two actions, both in the past. The past perfect is used to describe an action which was completed just before or sometime before the second action in the past.
(a) It is used with such verbs as: ‘hope’, ‘expect’, ‘think’, etc. to suggest that an expected past action did not take place.
Example :
(i) I had hoped that she would not decline my invitation, (but she did)
(b) In this tense, the form remains unchanged irrespective of person or number.
Example :
(i) He had done his duty before the next shift started.
(ii) They had done their duty before the next shift started.
Past Perfect Continuous
Usage. The Past Perfect Continuous Tense
(a) expresses an action that was finished at some definite time in the past but which had been going on before it was finished or had recently finished.
Example:
Ramesh had been working in this factory since he came to Delhi.
(b) At times, this tense can be expressed in a repeated action of the past.
Example:
Geeta had been trying since morning to contact her friend.
Use the correct form of the verbs given in brackets to complete the passage given below.
He was an old man who (a) ………………………. (fish) alone in a skiff, a small light boat, in the Gulf stream and he (b) ………………………. (go) eighty-four days without taking the fish. In the first forty days a boy (c) ………………………. (be) with him. But after forty days without a fish the boy’s parents (d) ………………………. (tell) him that the old man (e) ………………………. (be) definitely unlucky and the boy (f) ………………………. (go) at their orders in another boat, which caught three big fishes the first week.
Use the correct form of the words given in brackets to complete the passage given below.
When the old lady (a) ………………………. (return) to her flat she saw at once that burglars (b) ………………………. (break) in during her absence. Though the burglars themselves (c) ………………………. (be) no longer there she saw at once that they (d) ………………………. (just leave) because there was a burning cigarette in the ashtray on the table.
Probably they (e) ………………………. (hear) the lift coming up and (f) ………………………. (run) down the stairs.
Future Time
For referring to the future, the modal auxiliaries shall and will are used with the bare infinitive.
Future time is expressed in the following ways:
1. will/shall + infinitive to denote future actions
Examples:
We shall go for a picnic tomorrow.
He will reach by 5:30 p.m.
2. is/am/are + going to + infinitive
Example:
We are going to play football this evening.
3. is/am/are + to + infinitive
Example:
We are to play football this evening.
4. is/am/are + about to + infinitive
Example:
It is about to rain.
5. Simple present (to express an unalterable plan)
Example:
The Prime Minister leaves for a 10-day tour of the US tomorrow.
6. Present continuous (to denote the future)
Example:
Uncle’s Pizza is opening a new branch in Amritsar.
7. will/shall + be + -ing (present participle)
Example:
We shall be going abroad sometime next year.
Use the correct form of the words given in brackets to complete the dialogue given below.
Aarti: I (a) ………………………. probably (b) ………………………. (come) to Mumbai next week.
Chirag: When (e) ………………………. you (d) ………………………. (come)?
Aarti: I haven’t decided on the dates yet. Once I do I (e) ………………………. (give) you a call and (f) ………………………. (let) you know.
Chirag: Yes. If you let me know, I (g) ………………………. (pick) you up from the airport. Aarti: That (h) ………………………. (be) kind.
Basic English Grammar rules can be tricky. In this article, we’ll get you started with the basics of sentence structure, punctuation, parts of speech, and more.
Posters are an amalgam of notices, advertisements, and invitations. They may be in the form of large hoardings to be put up on walls, or the size of the handbills to be displayed on notice boards. Hence, they have to be captivating, attractive, and persuasive; so as to influence a large number of people. Generally, they are designed to create social awareness about issues related to current problems or needs or to even extend public invitations and write notices.
♦ Theme Points:
Theme/Topic/Event
Purpose/Occasion
Date, Time and Venue
A message of appeal, awareness and invitation short phrases
Catchy Slogans/Captions
Name of the Organisation/Department issuing
Proper spacing and proportionate headings and illustrations
Make sketches or matchstick figures, wherever necessary
Word limit: 50 words
♦ Contents:
Catchy Phrases/Slogans
Purpose
Date, Time and Place
Name and designation of the issuing authority/individual
Any other information
Format:
ISSUING AUTHORITY
PURPOSE (Drama/Exhibition/Workshop, etc.)
VISUAL
Chief Guest (if any)
Lead Artists/Actors, etc.
DATE TIME VENUE
Tickets/Further information
Poster writing Sample Examples for Class 12 CBSE
Sample 1: You are the President of the Army Wives Welfare Association, which is organizing a fete for the children in the cantonment area. Draft a poster to inform as many people as you can about the event.
Sample 2: You are the school librarian. You have been asked to design a poster in not more than 50 words about the availability of books on various subjects in the school library.
Sample 3: Repeated earthquakes in India and elsewhere have resulted in unprecedented damage and destruction to both life and property. Educating people on the precautions to be taken is the need of the hour. Prepare a poster, in not more than 50 words, for creating awareness.
Sample 4: As an educated citizen you are pained to see the physical health of youngsters deteriorating because of an unhealthy lifestyle. Draft a poster reflecting your concern. (50 words)
Poster writing Practice Examples for Class 12 CBSE
1. On the occasion of World Heritage Day, design a poster highlighting the need to preserve the monuments of our country. You are Aman/Amina, the President of the social science club. (50 words)
2. Water is precious and each one of us must stop wastage. Prepare a poster in not more than 50 words urging people to employ various methods of rainwater harvesting in their colonies.
3. You are the President of the Red Cross Society, Chandigarh. Draft a poster encouraging pulse polio immunization for children. (50 words)
4. Design a poster urging people to keep away from tobacco, smoking, drugs and alcohol. (50 words)
5. As a conscientious citizen, you want to educate people to save the environment. Propagate your ideas through a poster. (50 words)
6. Design a poster for promoting good health through a Health Mela. (50 words)
7. Design a poster for joining the defence services. (50 words)
8. Design a poster for sale of a ‘new model car’ that runs on gas. (50 words)
9. Design a poster for your school fete. You may use slogans. Do not exceed 50 words.
10. As Manager of Excellent Coaching Centre, prepare a poster calling the attention of students desirous of attending IIT, CPMT coaching, to join your coaching centre. (50 words)
11. Design a poster in not more than 50 words for promoting cleanliness in the surroundings of your colony.
12. You are going to contest in the elections for the post of the President of the Students’ Council of your school. Design a poster in not more than 50 words for your voters impressing upon them why they should vote for you. You may use slogans.
13.You are making an effort to spread the message of communal harmony. Prepare a poster with catchy slogans to be displayed in the school premises. (Word limit: 50 words)
14. As the President of the Leo Club, prepare a poster on behalf of the Lions Club and Leo Club for Diwali Mela to be held at Nehru Stadium, mentioning some of the attractions. (50 words)
15. Your school, Shardha Vidyalaya is organizing a cultural evening to collect funds for slum children. The Human Resource Development Minister has consented to be the Chief Guest. Draft a poster to be displayed in different areas. You are the Cultural Secretary of your school. (50 words)
16. Design a poster in not more than 50 words about the need for regular exercise. You may use slogans. 3.95 Design a poster for promoting space-saving furniture. (50 words)
Letter writing is an essential skill. Despite the prevalence of emails and text messages, everyone has to write letters at some point. Letters of complaint, job applications, thank you letters, letters requesting changes or – making suggestions – the list goes on and on. Encouraging children to write letters from an early age will improve their communication, social and handwriting skills, and teach them what they need to know about writing and structuring letters.
Basic English Grammar rules can be tricky. In this article, we’ll get you started with the basics of sentence structure, punctuation, parts of speech, and more.
Letter To The Editor Class 12 CBSE Format, Topics, Examples, Samples PDF
Letter To The Editor Sample Example With Answer for Class 12 CBSE
You are Kanchan Wahi, living at 4, Punjabi Bagh, Allahabad. Write a letter to the Editor of a newspaper about the burden of the heavy bags that young children carry to school.
You are Amit/Amita staying at Sunrise Apartments, Gymkhana Road, Pune. The main road leading to this colony has three open manholes causing frequent accidents at night. The street light is also not available. Write a letter to the Editor of ‘The Times of India’ expressing your concern about the apathy of the authorities towards this situation. Also suggest ways to mobilise city dwellers, with the help of school children, for the cause of safe roads. (6 marks) [CBSE Sample Paper 2015]
Answer:
C-4
Sunrise Apartments
Gymkhana Road
Pune
June 13, 20XX
The Editor
The Times of India
Mumbai
Subject: Darkness around Sunrise Apartments
Sir,
Through the columns of your esteemed newspaper, I wish to draw the kind attention of the relevant authorities towards the pathetic condition of residents of Sunrise Apartments, Gymkhana Road.
I would like to draw the attention of the relevant authorities towards the issue of three open manholes on the main road leading to our colony. These open manholes are turning into death traps for the residents who have demanded that the authorities concerned take steps to cover them. Moreover, our colony has no street lights, since the Just two months. There are no street lights even on the main road leading to our colony. With the open manholes and lack of street lights, accidents are on a rise. The road gets dark after seven in the evening. People fear going out, not only to avoid accidents but also to avoid being prey to unscrupulous elements. The open manholes not only emit bad smell and cause pollution but are also a breeding ground for mosquitoes.
Motorists, elders, and children are the main victims of these manholes, and many times, accidents have been reported due to these open manholes. Whenever torrential rains hit the areas, they cause even more problems. To mobilise city dwellers for the cause for safe roads, we plan to organise a student rally from Sunrise Apartments’ main gate to Mr. Rehan Pande, the current MP’s house.
I hope this letter will elicit a suitable response from our elected representatives.
Yours sincerely
Amita
Letter To The Editor Practice Example for Class 12 CBSE
1. Ratna Churamani, a resident of 15, Meerabagh, is concerned about the low voter turnout in her area, in the recent Lok Sabha elections despite the media campaign asking people to vote. She decides to write a letter to the Editor of The Gazette to draw the attention of the readers to the responsibilities of all citizens. She underlines that the key goal of participatory democracy is that citizens start sharing ‘the decision-making responsibility with the government. Write the letter.
2. You are Nitin/Natasha, a student of Class XII at K.P.N. Public School, Faridabad. Students are required to cope with a lot of pressure in today’s competitive environment. Write a letter to the Editor of a national daily highlighting the increasing stress faced by students and suggest ways to combat the same.
3. You have noticed many stray animals on the road during the busy hours of the day. These animals have caused traffic jams as well as accidents. You have already written to the concerned authorities but no action has been taken so far. So write a letter to the Editor of a leading newspaper telling him/her about the nuisance created by the stray animals. Sign your name as Preeti/Krishnan, C/5, Mall Road, Assam.
4. Write a letter to the Editor of Bharat Times, Delhi, complaining about the mosquito menace, requesting for steps to be taken to control the mosquitoes. You are Thomas/Mary, living in the Cantonment Area, Delhi. 4.30 Write a letter to the Editor of The Indian Times about the poor attention and the negligence on the part of the medical staff in some of the government hospitals of Delhi. Sign as Peter/Yana of No. 117, Vasant Vihar, New Delhi.
5. You are Aman/Aditi studying in Bharat School, Lucknow. The road leading to your school is very congested and full of potholes. Students and parents are often caught in a traffic jam. In spite of several representations, the government has not done anything to improve the condition of the road. Write a letter to the Editor of The Indian Chronicler drawing the attention of the government to this problem.
6. You are Ramesh/Ramola of No. 4, Civil Lines, Bareilly, UP. Write a letter to the Editor of a national daily, expressing your concern about the increase in the rate of road accidents, rash driving and overcrowded road transport.
7. You are Sunil/Sunita staying at Ramakrishna Puram, Secunderabad. The poor bus service adversely affects the life of the residents as your locality is away from the main city. Write a letter to the Editor of local daily, highlighting the problems faced, and also offering a few possible solutions.
8. Write a letter to the Editor of the magazine, Expressions, New Delhi, on the deterioration in the standard of living in your city. Give suggestions for improvement. Sign yourself as PMR.
9. Write a letter to the Editor of The News Today on the fear that is spreading among people due to their anxiety over the widespread terrorism in the world. Give suggestions to curb such anti-social activities. You are Vikram/Varsha.
A notice is a formal means of communication. The purpose of a notice is to announce or display information to a particular group of people. Notices are generally meant to be put up on specific display boards, whether in schools or in public places. Notices issued by the government appear in newspapers.
A Notice gives the reader some information regarding an important event that is about to happen or that has happened. It is usually displayed publicly. It is a formal piece of writing and involves a specific style.
Basic English Grammar rules can be tricky. In this article, we’ll get you started with the basics of sentence structure, punctuation, parts of speech, and more.
Notice Writing Class 11 Format, Examples, Topics, Exercises PDF
The purpose of a notice is to give information to those who belong to an institution/organisation. A notice is displayed at a prominent place, usually on a noticeboard where everyone can see it. As with all compositions, you have to take care of the following:
(a) Format
(b) Content
(c) Language
Format:
A notice should contain all the items shown in the format given below. The signature may Be put in the right corner too. The date is sometimes put at the bottom of the page, in the left corner.
Content:
You can see in the format given below that the content is put in two paragraphs. In the first paragraph, give all the information about the activity/event. In the second paragraph, write what the readers of the notice are expected to do.
Language:
The language of the notice should be simple, clear, and formal.
All notices should have a box around them.
Notice Writing Sample Examples for Class 11 CBSE
You are Aradhana/Anurag, Head Boy/Head Girl of Zion Senior Sec. School, Paharganj, New Delhi. Your school is organizing a day-long programme on Gandhi Jayanti. Draft a notice in not more than 50 words for your school noticeboard inviting names of the students who wish to participate.
Your school is organizing a fete to collect funds for charity. Only school students are eligible to put up stalls. As Head Boy/Head Girl of the Meera International School, complete the following notice in not more than 50 words to be put up to announce the sale of stalls giving all other necessary details.
Meera International School, New Delhi
Notice
11 April 20xx
(a) ……………………….. (b) ……………………….. in the school grounds from 10 am, to 5 pm. (c) ……………………….. The students (d) ……………………….. by 17 April. (e) ………………………..
Nakul Purohit
(Head Boy)
Answer:
(a) Please join and come forward as
(b) we are organizing a fete on 4 May 20XX.
(c) The funds collected would be donated in charity
(d) who are interested in putting up a stall should give their names
(e) For more information contact the undersigned
Hints:
are requested to book their stalls with the undersigned
Please come forward to support this noble cause.
Annual Fete
The school is organizing a fete on 4 May 20xx.
The funds collected will be used for charity.
Notice Writing Practice Examples for Class 11 CBSE
1. You are Sonal, the Secretary of the English Club of your school. You plan to organise an educational tour to Goa during the summer vacation. Prepare matters for the school noticeboard in about 50 words, mentioning the schedule of the tour, expenses to be incurred, a permission letter from the parents and last date for giving names, etc.
2. You are Rakesh/Raveena, Head Boy/Head Girl of Oasis Public School, Bareilly. Draft a notice in not more than 50 words for the school noticeboard, asking the students to give their names to take part in the Inter – class Swimming Competition.
3. Your school has organised a five – day trekking, mountain climbing, and rappelling camp at Rishikesh for the students of Classes XI and XII during the Dussehra vacations. As the President of the Adventure Club, draft a notice to be put up on the Students’ Noticeboard, telling the students about the trip and inviting them to join it. Do not exceed 50 words.
4. You are Manish Duggal, the President of Vikas Nagar Residents’ Welfare Association. You wish to hold a meeting to protest against the frequent power cuts in your colony. Draft a notice in not more than 50 words. inviting the residents of your colony to the meeting.
5. The Environment Club of your school has organised a Tree Planting Drive in your school. As President of the Club, write a notice in not more than 50 words informing the students about the same and inviting them to join it. You are Shobhit/Shobhita of Indore Public School, Indore.
Note-making is an advanced writing skill which is gaining importance due to knowledge explosion. There is a need to remember at least the main points of any given subject. Making notes is a complex activity which combines several skills.
Basic English Grammar rules can be tricky. In this article, we’ll get you started with the basics of sentence structure, punctuation, parts of speech, and more.
you receive a message on the telephone for someone at home?
you refer to a book or journal for writing an assignment?
you are listening to a lecture or a talk?
Obviously, you would jot down important details so that you could refresh your memory later. Note – making enables you to organise your own thoughts better. You will not be reading or listening passively, but also considering the points made by the writer or speaker and drawing your own conclusions about what is being presented.
Purpose Of Note – Making We make notes:
to revise lessons before an examination.
to write a report, a letter or an essay.
to plan a lecture, a speech or a discussion.
to make a presentation.
to convey telephonic messages without leaving out the important details.
to summarise a text that we have read.
Main Processes Involved In Note – Making
1. Storing
Very often we are required to store information for future use. It is similar to a factory storing raw materials till they are required for the production process.
Storing of information is important because:
we cannot be expected to remember all the information that we gather by reading, speaking or listening.
we may not need some information immediately but at some time in the future.
2. Retrieval
Storing of anything will be of little avail, if we cannot retrieve it for use. In the example of the factory that we have already discussed, if the raw materials are stored in a haphazard manner they may not be easily accessed at the time of need. Further, poor storage may also lead to damage to the materials stored.
This applies to note – making too. To ensure effective retrieval of information from notes, the following points should be borne in mind:
Information should be systematically organised.
Notes should not be obscure because the writer may fail to recollect what he had in mind when he used a particular set of symbols or abbreviations in the notes.
How To Make Notes
Step 1 When you make notes from an essay or an article or a chapter from a book, the first step is to read the passage thoroughly, from beginning to end to get a bird’s – eye view of it. This kind of reading is called skimming. By skimming the passage we get answers to following questions:
What does the passage deal with?
(or What can be a suitable title for it?)
How does the writer develop the theme?
Step 2 This leads us to the second step.
Identify the main points and supporting details in a given text. Do not be afraid if there are sections of your reading from where you do not make notes – the reason may be that those sections are not required in your notes.
Find out the chief divisions of the passage and supply suitable headings for them. Some of these headings can be further divided into subheadings.
Condense the information.
Organise the condensed information in a systematic way.
Important Characteristics Of Note – Making
Notes are usually not written in complete and conventionally (grammatically) correct sentences.
They are much shorter than the original text.
The main points and the supporting details are clearly distinguished.
Information is condensed using certain devices like abbreviations, symbols, shorter words, and numbers.
Certain types of words are often dropped: articles, words that are repeated, verbs which can be understood in the context, relative pronouns, conjunctions, etc.
Condensed information is organised and recorded in a systematic manner that brings out the structure of the original text.
Headings and supporting details are numbered.
Your notes will look like this:
(Left hand margin. Don’t write numbers or points in the margin.)
HEADING
Write the heading/title in block letters.
Underline the heading/title.
Do not give a one-word title for example, The title for a passage on psychoanalysis could be:‘THE NEED FOR PSYCHOANALYSIS’
A. Main point
1. Sub-point
1.1 follow the indented format
1.2 don’t write complete sentences
1.3 use abbreviations and symbols where required
1.4 notes should not be very long, four to five main points are enough 1.5
1.5.1 sub-sub-point
2. Sub-point
1.5.2 sub-sub-point
1.5.3 sub-sub-point
2.1 sub-sub-point
2.2 sub-sub-point
B. Main point
How to Organise Your Notes
The decimal format is the most common one in note-making. However it is possible to use tables, sketches and diagrams depending on the contents of the text. From the point of view of your limited requirements now, the decimal format will be suitable for most of the texts included for your tests and examinations. However, you may organise the notes as shown below.
Look back at the previous section of this unit. If we were to put that into notes, we would write:
Various formats for Note – making:
Format – Mixed Indent
(A) Reasons
can’t rem’ber much info. w’out wrtng
help mem. exams
can consult
(B) Charctristes
short
main pts only
note form
no cmplt sent
divs & sub – divs.
use of abbr. & symbls
undrstandbl ltr
Format II – Indented Roman Numerals
I. Reasons
can’t rem’ber much info. w’out wrtng
help mem. exams
can consult
II. Charctristcs
II. 1 short
II. 2 main pts only
II. 3 note form
II. 3.i no cmplt sent.
II. 3.ii divs & sub – divs.
II. 3.iii useof abbr. & symbls
II. 4 undrstandbl ltr
Format III – Indented Decimals
1. Reasons
1.1 can’t rem’ber much info. w’out wrtng
1.2 help mem. exams
1.3 can consult
2. Charctristes
2.1 short
2.2 main pts only
2.3 note form
2.3.1 no cmplt sent.
2.3.2 divs & sub – divs.
2.3.3 use of abbr. & symbls
2.4 undrstandbl ltr
Tips for Condensing
As shown in the notes on note – making, a number of ways are adopted to present information in a condensed form. Please remember and practise the “note style”, which is never in complete sentences. Notes should present information precisely for the sake of brevity.
Summarising
What is a Summary?
Summarising is taking a large selection of text and reducing it to their bare essentials: the gist, the key ideas, the main points that are worth noting and remembering. Webster’s calls a summary the “general idea in brief form”; it’s the distillation, condensation, or reduction of a larger work into its primary notions.
To do this one has to remove the extra words and irrelevant examples. The rule is to focus on the core of the matter. Thus the summary contains only the main ideas and the supporting details.
Effective summarising helps learning. In order to summarise effectively, one needs to decide what information needs to be deleted or substituted and what to retain. To do this, one needs to identify the important, the trivial and the repetitive. The information then has to be analysed, key concepts identified and extraneous information defined and deleted.
The three main purposes of note – making:
summarising
synthesising or contrasting
critically analysing
Steps in Writing a Summary
A. Use basic signal words
WHO? (subject)
WHAT? (action)
WHERE? (location)
WHEN? (time)
WHY? (reason)
HOW? (process)
B. The Process ………………………………. .
Main idea: Identify main idea from TOPIC SENTENCE (if there is one) or use BASIC SIGNAL WORDS
C. Identify Supporting Details
D. Disregard unimportant information
E. Analyse redundant information
F. Simplify, categorise, and label important information
Note:
Make sure that it does not exceed 1/3 of the length of the original text.
Avoid sentences using words like “and’, ‘not only’, ‘but also’, ‘such that’ and ‘which’.
Avoid lifting complete sentences from the original text. Instead, comprehend the meaning and write in your own words, as far as possible.
Your summary should read as a coherent paragraph.
As a cross-check, ensure that the summary is:
comprehensive: It is complete and all inclusive in the sense that it carries ALL of the author’s major ideas.
accurate: Do NOT misrepresent the author’s ideas.
neutral: Be unbiased and do NOT include your own opinions.
independent: anyone who has not read the source text should be able to understand it.
Note Making Solve Example With Answers for Class 11 CBSE
Read the passage given below about peanuts and complete the tasks that follow.
1. The Mayan civilzation of Mexico and Central America are one of the ancient world’s most fascinating, prolific, and mysterious civilisations. They left their mark on the region’s culture, architecture, cuisine, and language – and left an indelible impression on the imagination of the modern world. Who were they? How were they able to build such an impressive civilisation of towering temples and sophisticated artwork in the middle of the harsh rainforests of Mesoamerica? And why did they vanish?
2. The earliest Mayans lived along the Pacific coast of what is now Guatemala and can be dated to about 1800 BC; by 1000 BC they were also living in Guatemala’s southern lowlands. The period from about 1800 BC to about AD 250 is referred to as the Pre – classic, a time when the early Mayans lived as farmers in small villages along rivers and other bodies of water, hunting game, tending gardens and making use of the abundant natural foods found in the region’s marshes and seasonal swamps. In time, strong rulers began wielding power over these communities, and the Mayan culture grew in complexity. Cities rose from the forest floor, boasting stone temples with stuccoed and painted facades created at the behest of elite rulers. People in the new power centres communicated over long distances, and traders using the same routes carried luxury goods such as cacao beans, jade ornaments, quetzal feathers, and jaguar pelts.
3. The Classic period, AD 250 – 900, is the time of the civilisation’s greatest glory – and of the greatest depths of political intrigue between rival cities. During these centuries, the Mayans erected countless stelae, stone monuments inscribed with portraits and hieroglyphs that recorded dynastic histories – the births, marriages and conquests of the ruling families. There were dozens of important regional capitals at the time, and among the most important were Tikal in Guatemala and its fierce rival Calakmul in Mexico, Palenque in southern Mexico, Caracol in Belize, and Copán in Honduras.
4. The Classic period is known for artistic and intellectual splendour. The Mayans developed a complex religious and ritual system that considered rulers divine beings and called for blood sacrifices. They also grasped the numerical notion of zero, created agricultural timetables and sophisticated calendars to track the heavens, and made beautiful polychrome pottery as well as exquisite ornaments, murals, and carved decorations.
5. But the Classic Mayans were also known for their rancorous political fighting and for being extremely bellicose – warfare was always on the horizon. One by one, the cities in the southern Mayan lowlands fell to each other, their downfall often recorded on stelae in the conquering city. By AD 900 most of the important Classic period cities had collapsed, and their remaining populations had scattered into the surrounding forests. The last date recorded on stelae that archaeologists have found so far is from 909 in Toniná, in southern Mexico. Among the factors that help explain why the civilisation collapsed were the endemic warfare, overpopulation, degradation of the environment, and drastic climate change and drought.
6. While the cities and ceremonial centres of the southern lowlands were being reclaimed by the jungle, the Mayans living to the north were gaining prominence, rising to amazing heights during the post-classic period (900 – 1502). Wonderful and wealthy cities in Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula flourished, most famous among them being Chichén Itzá. Yet it too fell victim to political infighting and by 1200 had collapsed.
7. “The Mayans never truly disappeared. Centuries after the major cities were abandoned, small groups of Mayans continued to live in the area. It was they who met and resisted the Spanish conquistadors after the first contact, in 1502. And today, more than six million Mayans live in Mexico, Guatemala, and Belize, speaking 28 languages, and blending ancient and modern ways.
(a) On the basis of your reading of the above passage, make notes on it in points only, using abbreviations wherever necessary. Supply a suitable title.
Answer:
(a) WHO WERE THE MAYANS?
1. Glorious Past
1.1 It’s the civilization of Mexico & Cent. America
1.2 Makes for the world’s most mysterious & prolific civilization
1.3 Resided in Guatemala since 1800 BC
2. Classical Period
2.1 Spans from 250 – 900 AD
2.2 Cities developed tremendously
2.3 Artistic & intellectual splendour dominated
2.4 Religious & agricultural systems were consolidated and devised
3. Downfall
3.1 Major S. Mayan cities collapsed, 900 AD
3.2 Remaining popu. scattered in the forests
3.3 Northern popu. rose
3.4 Though they also perished in the 1200, Chichen Itza „
4. Current Scenario
4.1 Mayans didn’t disappear completely
4.2 Met in small groups
4.3 Reside in Mexico, Guatemala, Belize
Key to Abbreviation
Abbreviation
Word
&
and
Cent.
Central
S.
Southern
popu.
population
(b) Write a summary of the above in 80 words.
Answer:
Summary
The Mayan Civilization of Mexico and Central America is one of the world’s most glorious and fascinating civilizations. They Mayans resides in Guatemala in 1800 BC. The era which spans from 250 – 900 AD was the classical period which saw the development pf cities, religious capital etc. There were also advancements in religious and ritual systems and agricultural practices were also established. However, majority of the south Mayan cities collapsed due to overpopulation, environmental degradation, warfare etc. By 900 AD, the northern part of the civilization gain prominence and reached newer heights. They had wealthy cities. However, its most flourishing city, Chichen Itza collapsed by 1200. But the population never really dwindled and today six million Mayans reside in Mexico, Guatemala and Belize.
Note Making Practice Example for Class 11 CBSE
1. Read the passage given below and answer the questions that follow.
Violence On Women
1. It doesn’t happen only in slums, but in marble mansions as well, and increasingly so. Women’s groups were therefore dismayed, when the last Lok Sabha allowed the Domestic Violence Prevention Bill to lapse. But it was just as well that the Bill, with all its infirmities, wasn’t pushed through hurriedly. The ramifications of a law without sufficient teeth are all too familiar. Women’s organizations have been agitating to plug the loopholes. Their efforts seem to have paid off. The UPA government is working on a Bill to replace the lapsed Domestic Violence Prevention Bill 2002. New clauses to make the legislation more effective are being incorporated. These include a more specific definition of domestic violence and the court’s right to ask the perpetrator of violence to leave the house or pay the victim rent for an alternative accommodation. The court can also prohibit the abuser from entering the victim’s workplace and also stop him from accessing bank accounts, lockers and other jointly held assets.
2. The proposed changes could make the life of thousands of battered women a lot better. Surveys by the International Centre for Research on Women estimate that 60 percent women face violence at some point in their marriages. More than anything else, it is the fear of being rendered homeless which forces victims of domestic violence to put up with humiliation and pain. The creation of protection officers (to be drawn from among social workers, women activists and judicial officers) to help the battered is another progressive step. The most significant change, however, is with regard to the definition of domestic violence. The Bill, in its earlier avatar, did not specify the kind of violence that amounted to abuse. Now that it has been identified – physical and sexual injuries, verbal, emotional and economic abuse – it will be easier to pin down an offender. It would be possible to book even an occasional offender, not necessarily a ‘habitual one’, as under the lapsed Bill. The move to grant temporary custody of children to the aggrieved woman will ensure that she is not blackmailed into withdrawing the case. Indeed, the need for legislation to afford protection to women in their own homes is a telling comment on the degree of their vulnerability. In our largely patriarchal society, where women’s rights are often denied, it is best to rule out any scope for ambiguity. The new Bill promises to be more specific in objective, wider in scope, and stringent in its punitive power. It is hoped that it will be finalized and passed without the inordinate delay that has been the fate of legislation regarding women.
3. Mountaineer Al Read has logged many notable first ascents and now serves as president of a company in Wyoming that leads paying clients to the summits of some of the world’s toughest – and most dangerous mountains each year. Read says, “I can remember when I was getting into situations where I thought I could be killed. I would say, ‘Oh God, don’t let me be killed here. I’ll never do this again.’ But we’d get back down safe we’d say, “Man was that great!’ You forget how scary it was, and you go back again.”
4. Psychologists note that some people seem to have a strong craving for adrenaline rushes as a personality trait. Like extreme athletes, Emily Cook’s appetite for risk appeared at a young age. “I was both a skier and a gymnast,” said the former U.S. aerials ski champion. “I was one of those kids who enjoyed and excelled at anything acrobatic, anything where you were upside down.” And as her expertise grew, so did the stakes. “As I started doing harder tricks, I was drawn to the fear factor,” she said. “There are definitely moments when a new trick seems like the stupidest thing in the world. But overcoming that [fear] is just the coolest feeling in the world.”
5. Cook’s risk became reality – she broke both feet during a jump. “As an injured athlete coming back, my reaction is to stop and reduce the risk a bit,” she said. “I’ve had to change my mentality. Now there is a fear of pain, injury, and even the fear of not being able to do it like I could before,” she said. Shane Murphy, a sports psychologist, says he is struck by the way they redefine risk according to their skills, experience, and environment. “I’ve worked with groups climbing Everest, including one group without oxygen. To me that just seems like the height of risk. But [the climbers] took every precaution they could think of,” he said. “They weren’t going out there to get hurt.” Murphy said the perspective of extreme athletes is very different from our own. “We look at a risky situation and know that if we were in [that situation] we would be out of control,” he said. “But from the [athletes’] perspective, they have a lot of control, and there are a lot of things that they do to minimise risk.”
7. As Read, of Exum Mountain Guides, feels the “dangerous” activities are statistically not as risky as outsiders would assume. Another key aspect of risk perception may be “the flow” or “the zone.” It is a state of becoming absorbed completely on the present. “Something that makes your adrenaline flow and you become very concentrated on what you’re doing,” Read said. “After it’s over, there’s exhilaration. You wouldn’t have that same feeling if the risk hadn’t been there.” People experience “flow” at different times. As a result, some may always be driven to adventures that others consider extreme.
Follow the Sample Practice to Solve the Other Question
16.1 On the basis of your reading of the passage make notes on it in points only, using abbreviations wherever necessary. Supply a suitable title.
16.2 Write a summary of the passage in 80 words.
2. Read the passage given below and answer the questions that follow.
1. A few decades ago, if a shield – tailed snake wanted to cross over to the other side of the forest during the rains, it would simply slither across when it knew it was time, and it would be safe. But today, there is a good chance that it will be run over. Speeding vehicles along the Aliyar – Attakatti check post road claimed the lives of several shield – tailed snakes last year, according to a study by biologist R. Arumugam.
2. Not just snakes, frogs, toads, chameleons, butterflies and birds have been crushed to death by speeding cars and trucks. Forest roads should be negotiated carefully. “If the roads are wide and in good condition, vehicles speed across them. In places where a speed of 40km/hr is prudent, some go at 70 – 80km/hr,” says Arumugam.
3. For four months, he, along with volunteer N. Lakshminarayanan, covered two roads that passed through the Anamalai Tiger Reserve. They were the stretches between the 9/6 check post and Chinnar check post, and between Aliyar and the Attakatti check post. It was a project initiated by the Tamil Nadu Forest Department to study road kills.
4. Arumugam says that they saw a number of dead reptiles, amphibians and invertebrates. “Speeding vehicles run over them because the drivers do not see the movement of small animals,” he says. “Besides, snakes are generally slow moving. By the time they move from one side of the road to the other, they are run over.”
5. Arumugam’s study found that 96 per cent of animal road kills happened during the night. They counted a total of 91 dead animals – 17 species were found dead along the Aliyar – Attakatti road alone. He also found that over 85 per cent of vehicles that plied the road travelled at speeds over 40km/hr.
6. It is not just the reptiles, several big animals have also been killed on roads adjoining forests. Arumugam recalls the death of a Nilgiri tahr a few years back. “It was killed by a vehicle on the Valparai road,” he says.
7. P. Jeganathan, a scientist with the Nature Conservation Foundation (NCF), says that even arboreal animals such as the Nilgiri langur, bonnet monkey, malabar giant squirrel and lion – tailed macaque (LTM) are vulnerable to road kills. “This is because the canopy contiguity of their forests is disturbed by the roads.”
8. “A team of scientists from NCF has constructed bridges made of thick tarpaulin between trees to be used by the animals in the Pudhuthottam estate of Valparai,” he adds.
9. In 2010, NCF constituted a study in two rainforest fragments of the Valparai plateau. “We found that every day, two animals are killed every kilometre,” says Jeganathan.
10. Jeganathan worries that road kills have the potential to wipe out entire species endemic to an area.
11. “But we cannot blame the public entirely,” he says. “We have to educate them.” For, even a seemingly harmless act of throwing candy on the road could cost an animal its life.
12. One night, a porcupine crossed the road to check out a white object – an idli. The animal was so engrossed in eating it that he didn’t notice a vehicle speeding towards him – he was killed instantly. This is why one shouldn’t litter roads along forests, says Jeganathan. “Also, people should be taught not to feed animals.”
13. According to A. Thyagaraj, District Forest Officer and Deputy Director, Anamalai Tiger Reserve, the forest department has deployed anti-poaching watchers in Pudhuthottam to ensure the safe crossing of LTMs. “They also advise the public not to feed animals,” he says. In a bid to create awareness amidst drivers, NCF has trained school kids in the area to stand by roads with placards saying ‘Go slow. Lion Tailed Monkey crossing.’
14. A little concern for animals will go a long way in their conservation. Says Jeganathan, “It is just an animal,” some people think. “But aren’t they living – beings too?”
Follow the Sample Practice to Solve the Other Question
17.1 On the basis of your reading of the passage make notes on it in points only, using abbreviations wherever necessary. Supply a suitable title.
17.2 Write a summary of the passage in 80 words.
3. Read the passage given below and answer the questions that follow.
1. The first crisis the lunar explorers faced came just short of moonfall. The Apollo 11 Lunar Module, code – named ‘eagle’, was still 9.5 km (6 miles) up when the vital guidance computer began flashing an alarm. It was overloading. Any second it could give up the ghost under the mounting pressure and nothing the two astronauts could do would save the mission. Emergencies were nothing new to Commander Neil Armstrong but he and his co – pilot Buzz Aldrin hadn’t even practised for this one on the ground – no one believed it could happen. Sweeping feet first towards their target, they pressed ahead as controllers on Earth waited heart – in – mouth. Racing against the computer, Eagle slowed and then pitched upright to stand on its rocket plume and gave Armstrong his first view of the landing site. The wrong one! They had overshot by four miles into unfamiliar territory and were heading straight for a football field size crater filled with boulders “the size of Volkswagens”.
2. With his fuel running out, and only a minute’s flying time left, Armstrong coolly accelerated the hovering Eagle beyond the crater, touching 88 kph (55mph). Controllers were puzzled and alarmed by the unplanned manoeuvres. Mission Director George Hale pleaded silently: “Get it down, Neil. Get it down.” The seconds ticked away.
3. “Forward, drifting right,” Aldrin said. And then, with less than 20 seconds left, came the magic word: “Contact!”
4. Armstrong spoke first: “Tranquility base here, the Eagle has landed.” His words were heard by 600 million people – a fifth of humanity.
5. About six and a half hours later, Eagle’s front door was opened and Armstrong backed out onto a small porch. He wore a €200,000 moonsuit, a sort of thermos flask capable of stopping micrometeoroids travelling 30 times faster than a rifle bullet. He carried a backpack which weighed 49 kgs and enough oxygen for a few hours. Heading down the ladder, Armstrong unveiled a €200,000 TV camera so the world could witness his first step: “That’s one small step for a man, one giant leap for mankind.” It was 3.56 am, 21 July, 1969.
Follow the Sample Practice to Solve the Other Question
18.1 On the basis of your reading of the passage make notes on it in points only, using abbreviations wherever necessary. Supply a suitable title.
18.2 Write a summary of the passage in 80 words.
4. Read the passage given below and answer the questions that follow.
1. Homeopathy has come to be known, over the years, as a form of medical treatment without side effects.
2. In the eighteenth century, Dr Samuel Hahnemann convinced that existing medical practices did more harm than good, began to look for an alternative that would be safe, gentle, and effective. He reasoned that instead of suppressing symptoms as allopathy does, one should seek to stimulate and so encourage and assist the body’s natural healing process.
3. Hahnemann had already discovered that a small dose of quinine in a healthy person produced the symptoms of malaria. A number of systematic experiments followed this discovery. Hahnemann then worked to establish the smallest effective dose as he realised that this was the best way to avoid side effects. In so doing, he unexpectedly discovered one of the basic tenets of homeopathy, that the more a remedy was diluted, the more effective it became. Thus, by trial and perseverance, Hahnemann finally arrived at his goal – an alternative form of medical treatment that was both effective and safe.
4. One of the principles of homeopathy is that a person’s response to a disease varies according to his or her basic temperament. Thus, a homeopathy doctor will take into account the patient’s temperament and responses to certain conditions before prescribing any medicine because it is the patient who is being treated and not the disease. Patients with the same ailment may often require different remedies.
5. Rapid results are often achieved in cases of an acute illness but where a patient’s vitality is low, the treatment may be long term. In chronic illness, sufferers must be patient and give homeopathy time to take effect.
6. Homeopathy does not reject the great discoveries of modern science, only their commercial abuse. In many cases, homeopathy is complementary to the newer methods of modern medical practice.
7. In its present form, homeopathy has stood the test of time. 8. Today, it is highly developed in many countries and is accepted as a safe and effective form of medical treatment that stands in its own right.
Follow the Sample Practice to Solve the Other Question
19.1 On the basis of your reading of the passage make notes on it in points only, using abbreviations wherever necessary. Supply a suitable title.
19.2 Write a summary of the passage in 80 words.
5. Read the passage given below and answer the questions that follow.
1. The work of the heart can never be interrupted. The heart’s job is to keep oxygen – rich blood flowing through the body. All the body’s cells need a constant supply of oxygen, especially those in the brain. Brain cells live only four to five minutes after their oxygen is cut off, and death comes to the entire body.
2. The heart is a specialised muscle that serves as a pump. The pump is divided into four chambers connected by tiny doors called valves. The chambers work to keep the blood flowing round the body in a circle.
3. At the end of each circuit, veins carry the blood to the right atrium, the first of the four chambers. Its oxygen has been used up and it is on its way back to the lung to pick up a fresh supply and the tricuspid valve into the second chamber, the right ventricle. The right ventricle contracts when it is filled, pushing the blood through the pulmonary artery, which leads to the lungs. In the lungs the blood gives up its carbon dioxide and picks up fresh oxygen. Then it travels to the third chamber, the left atrium. When this chamber is filled, it forces the blood through the mitral valve to the left ventricle. From here it is pushed into a big blood vessel called aorta and sent round the body by way of arteries.
4. Heart diseases can result from damage to the heart muscle, the valves, or the pacemaker. If the muscle is damaged, the heart is unable to pump properly. If the valves are damaged, blood cannot flow normally and easily from one chamber to another; and if the pacemaker is defective, the contractions of the chambers will become uncoordinated.
5. Until the twentieth century, few doctors dared to touch the heart. In 1953, all this changed. After twenty years of work, Dr John Gibbon of USA had developed a machine that could take over temporarily from the heart and lungs. Blood could be routed through the machine bypassing the heart so that surgeons could work inside it and see what they were doing. The era of open heart surgery had begun. In the operating theatre, it gives surgeons the chance to repair and replace a defective heart. Many patients have had plastic valves inserted in their hearts when their own was faulty. Many people are being kept alive with tiny battery – operated pacemakers; none of these repairs could have been made without the heart – lung machine. But valuable as it is to the surgeons, the heart – lung machine has certain limitations, It can be used only for a few hours at a time because its pumping gradually damages the blood cell.
Follow the Sample Practice to Solve the Other Question
20.1 On the basis of your reading of the passage make notes on it in points only, using abbreviations wherever necessary. Supply a suitable title.
20.2 Write a summary of the passage in 80 words.
6. Read the passage given below and answer the questions that follow.
1. Studies serve for delight, for ornament, and for ability. Their chief use for delight is in privateness and retiring; for ornament, is in discourse; and for ability, is in the judgment and disposition of business. For expert men can execute, and perhaps judge of particulars, one by one; but the general counsels, and the plots and marshalling of affairs, come best from those that are learned.
2. To spend too much time in studies is sloth; to use them too much for ornament, is affectation; to make judgment wholly by their rules, is the humor of a scholar. They perfect nature, and are perfected by experience: for natural abilities are like natural plants, that need pruning, by study, and studies themselves do give forth directions too much at large, except they be bounded in by experience. Crafty men regard studies with contempt, simple men admire them, and wise men use them; for they teach not their own use; but that is a wisdom without them, and above them, won by observation. Read not to contradict and confute; nor to believe and take for granted; nor to find talk and discourse; but to weigh and consider.
3. Some books are to be tasted, others to be swallowed, and some few to be chewed and digested; that is, some books are to be read only in parts; others to be read, but not curiously; and some few to be read wholly, and with diligence and attention. Some books also may be read by deputy, and extracts made of them by others; but that would be only in the less important arguments, and the meaner sort of books, else distilled books are like common distilled waters, flashy things. Reading maketh a full man; conference a ready man; and writing an exact man. And therefore, if a man write little, he had need have a great memory; if he confer little, he had need have a present wit: and if he read little, he had need have much cunning, to seem to know that he doth not.
4. Histories make men wise; poets witty; the mathematics subtle; natural philosophy deep; moral grave; logic and rhetoric able to contend. Abeunt studia in mores [Studies pass into and influence manners]. Nay, there is no stand or impediment in the wit but may be wrought out by fit studies; like as diseases of the body may have appropriate exercises. Bowling is good for the stone and reins; shooting for the lungs and breast; gentle walking for the stomach; riding for the head; and the like. So if a man’s wit be wandering, let him study the mathematics; for in demonstrations, if his wit be called away never so little, he must begin again. If his wit be not apt to distinguish or find differences, let him study the Schoolmen; for they are cymini sectores (splitters of hairs). If he be not apt to beat over matters, and to call up one thing to prove and illustrate another, let him study the lawyers’ cases. So every defect of the mind may have a special receipt.
Follow the Sample Practice to Solve the Other Question
21.1 On the basis of your reading of the passage make notes on it in points only, using abbreviations wherever necessary. Supply a suitable title.
21.2 Write a summary of the passage in 80 words.
7. Read the passage given below and answer the questions that follow.
1. Scattered over 300 sq.km in the blue waters of the Indian Ocean, like a string of pearls, Maldives boasts of some of the most stunning and exotic tropical hideaways. Hundreds of Virgin Islands, with their lush green vegetation, clean, sandy beaches and the turquoise blue lagoons together offer a perfect holiday experience. Rated among the top ten diving destinations in the world, the underwater coral gardens in Maldives offer an opportunity to watch colourful marine life at their natural habitat, from close quarters.
2. Of the 1190 islands that make up the Republic of Maldives which is spread over 26 Atolls (a ring – like formation enclosing a lagoon) only about 200 are inhabited. Of the remaining, 90 are resort islands and the rest are uninhabited. Some of the uninhabited islands are meant for activities like drying fish.
3. Not many details are available about the origins of the Maldivian people. The first settlers may well have been from Sri Lanka and southern India. Some say Aryans, who sailed in their reed boats from Lothal in the Indus Valley about 4,000 years ago, probably followed them. Archaeological evidence suggests the existence of Hinduism and Buddhism before the country embraced Islam in 1153 AD.
4. The Maldives gained independence on 26 July 1965. Three years later, a republic was declared with Prime Minister Ibrahim Nasir as the first President. In 1978, President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom became President and has been re – elected thrice since then.
5. A coup attempt in 1998 by Sri Lankan mercenaries was successfully repelled. Small as it is, the Maldives has always maintained independence and strong unity, despite influences and threats from outside. They are now an internationally renowned country, a member of the UN, WHO, SAARC, Commonwealth, the Non – Aligned Movement and others, and play an important role in advocating the security of small nations and the protection of the environment.
6. The language of the Maldivians is Dhivehi. This language has been influenced heavily by Arabic since the advent of Islam in 1153 and English in more recent times, especially since the introduction of English as a medium of education in the early 1960s.
7. Since the opening of the first resort in 1972, Maldives tourism has developed into one of the most important activities in the country. Each resort has its own island but the construction activities have been restricted to 20 per cent of the total landmass by law.
8. Besides, the height of the buildings should not reach more than the tallest tree on the island. The house reef that encircles each island is another unique feature of the resort islands in Maldives. The shallow waters that get enclosed by the reef wall serve as a natural swimming pool. All the resort islands are carefully landscaped so that the natural vegetation is preserved. The approach of Maldives to environmental issues stays in harmony with the concept, “Think globally and act locally”.
Follow the Sample Practice to Solve the Other Question
22.1 On the basis of your reading of the passage make notes on it in points only, using abbreviations wherever necessary. Supply a suitable title.
22.2 Write a summary of the passage in 80 words.
8. Read the passage given below and answer the questions that follow.
1. “Relay kidnapping’ is the new ‘industry’in Chambal valley. With rural dacoity going out of vogue, the multi – crore kidnapping industry has turned towards urban residents and high – profile commuters on national highways.
2. Earlier, dacoits kidnapped people from villages located in the region. Now they buy hostages from Delhi and Bihar gangs. A gang gets around Rs 20,000 for handing over the hostage to the dacoits, who negotiate with the hostage’s family for a higher price. Between the hit team and the dacoits there are small – town gangs who act as conduits for inbound and outbound hostages.
3. Anti – dacoity expert Harisingh Yadav, IPS, said, “The modus operandi has changed, with the actual abduction being done by a small organised gang and the victim being sold to a bigger gang. Now the kidnappings are not being done by ravine dacoits but by urban criminals.”
4. Often, the police are not alerted by the victim’s family in its concern for the safety of the hostage. Chambal – based journalist Rakesh Pathak commented: “People have stopped relying on the police as the number of murders by kidnappers is on the rise.”
5. The 37,000 sq km Gwalior – Chambal belt has long been a kidnapper’s haven, thanks to its inaccessible ravines and inter – state borders. The anti – dacoity operations launched in 1960 have resulted in 4,000 bandits being arrested, 2,000 being killed and an equal number’s surrender. But the bandit – police – politician nexus promotes arrival of fresh recruits and strengthening of existing gangs. Fakkad Baba is a case in point. After evading arrest for 27 years, he successfully negotiated and surrendered in Madhya Pradesh, thus escaping 200 cases against him in Uttar Pradesh.
6. The last big “classic – style’ kidnapping was done two years ago by the Gadaria gang, which carries a Rs 15 lakh bounty on its head. The gang took away a bus and collected more than Rs 50 lakh, by releasing the passengers one by one over a week.
7. The last six hostages carried a letter from the Gadarias to the media. It said that the gang paid a monthly fee of Rs 50,000 to the Gwalior police towards protection and ammunition. Rani Chauhan, a victim rescued from the Jagjivan Pariahar gang confirmed that policemen even visit dacoit hideouts in the ravines.
8. Former Shivpuri MLA, Narendra Birthere, said policemen were in it for promotions and gallantry medals. Chambal – based novelist, Manmohan Kumar Tamanna, elaborated that the police gave petty criminals a free run and killed them when the government put a price on their heads.
9. Said Tamanna, who has written 46 novels on the Chambal society started: “When a villager becomes a bandit, he helps light a hundred chulahs (hearths). There are people who supply guns on rent, informers get their livelihood from the police, some shuttle the dacoits around, others supply food and groceries and some become middlemen in the kidnapping racket.”
10. According to police records, the Cwalior – Charnbal region has seen over 2,000 kidnappings between 1998 and 2008. Unofficial estimates put the total ransom amount over Rs 20 crore. Locals say that the dacoits live on the edge and it is the policemen who benefit – cuts from the ransom when the gang is active; promotions and bounty when the gang is dead.
Follow the Sample Practice to Solve the Other Question
23.1 On the basis of your reading of the passage make notes on it in points only, using abbreviations wherever necessary. Supply a suitable title.
23.2 Write a summary of the passage in 80 words.
9. Read the passage given below and answer the questions that follow.
1. Kites originated in China in the remote past, probably before 1000 BC, and they are widely flown in the East and the Pacific. In Europe, though the Greeks and Romans had something of the kind, and though dragon – shaped kites appear to have been known and flown in the fifteenth century, it seems that they were only popularized in the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries by direct Chinese influence by way of Holland, when the East and West came into a closer relationship.
2. In England, kites were pictured in John Bate’s The Mysteries of Art and Nature in 1635. Their English name (not found in print until the seventeenth century) they owe to the kite, with its peculiar forked tail and soaring flight, which was one of the most familiar of British birds, although now almost extinct. The Italians call them aquiloni (large eagles) and in Germany, the kite is drachen, or ‘dragon’. The kite indeed has been made in many forms – from bird shapes and dragon shapes, elaborately painted and articulated, to the simplest lozenge or triangle. In the East the kite has been more than a toy of elegance and fascination. It was in demand for magical purposes, to fend off evil spirits. Flutes and whistles and reeds were attached to make sound kites or musical kites; a Chinese general of the Han dynasty (202 BC – AD 220) is said to have flown such kites above his enemies in the darkness. They believed their guardian angels were warning them of danger, and fled. In Siam, kites were flown in a yearly festival to call up the right northerly wind which would clear the skies and the weather and dry the ground to make it ready for sowing.
3. In Europe, kite – flying continued to be no more than a game until the eighteenth century; when kites were first employed in meteorology. In 1749, Alexander Wilson and Thomas Melville used the kite to lift thermometers into the air. Three years later, in 1752, Benjamin Franklin made famous use of the kite in his investigations of lightning and electricity. In 1804, the kite took on a more important role: as a simple form of aeroplane in which the surface is inclined to the wind and sustained against the pull of the string, it helped to solve the problems of flight. Sir George Cayley (1773 – 1857), the aeroplane pioneer, realized its aeronautical nature and constructed the first successful model glider by fixing a kite to one end of a pole, and a tail – plane and fin to the other. Thus the Chinese magical dragon and toy may be called the first true ancestor of the aeroplane.
4. Kites and aeroplanes have still another link. In Australia, in 1893, the scientist Lawrence Hargrave invented the biplane box – kite, a highly stable type which led to an even greater use for kites both as a toy and scientific instrument. The box – kite and the biplane glider built by the Wright brothers, combined to dictate the form of the earliest European aeroplanes between 1905 and 1908.
Follow the Sample Practice to Solve the Other Question
24.1 On the basis of your reading of the passage make notes on it in points only, using abbreviations wherever necessary. Supply a suitable title.
24.2 Write a summary of the passage in 80 words.
10. Read the passage given below and answer the questions that follow.
1. The Lalbagh Botanical Garden, Bangalore is of royal origin and was started initially as a private garden in an area of 40 acres by Hyder Ali in 1760. Initially designed in Mughal style, this was further developed by Hyder Ali’s son Tipu Sultan, and subsequently by the British and Indian doyens of horticulture by extension of area and addition of a number of plant species.
2. Lalbagh is currently under the aegis of the Directorate of Horticulture Karnataka. The Directorate is housed amidst the splendid environs of this garden. Lalbagh was given the status of a Government Botanical Garden in 1856, and since then, it has been an internationally renowned centre for the scientific study of plants and botanical artwork and also conservation of plants. Today, the garden is a lush green paradise with an area of 240 acres.
3. Lalbagh has earned a pride of place among the gardens and it has come to be regarded as one of the best gardens in the east for its layout, maintenance, scientific treasure and scenic beauty. It is the place of legends and beauty, a place of rarity and wonder, a place of paradise and landmarks. It is an important genetic resource centre for introduction, acclimatization and maintenance of plants; it envisages documentation of the variations available in plants of ornamental and economic value. It is an important centre of dissemination of scientific, technical and popular information on plants including offering of regular courses. It is a vital lung space of Bangalore, a place of beauty that provides healthy recreation to the public and it provides a venue for people to get close to plants and nature.
4. The garden with well – laid out roads, paths, open spaces, shade and a good collection of many types of plant species attracts a large number of visitors. Lalbagh is well protected with stone walls as enclosures. The botanical garden is enriched with numerous native and exotic flora of wide ranging diversity, use and interest. This has been achieved by way of introduction; acclimatization and multiplication of plants obtained from various parts of the world since its inception in 1760. Today, nearly 673 genera and 1,854 species of plants are found in Lalbagh. The collection of the plants has made it a veritable treasure house of plants.
6. Apart from some of the exotic species introduced from different parts, a number of ornamental and economic plant species, both of exotic and indigenous origin, can be found in Lalbagh.
7. Of the many artistic structures in Lalbagh, the Glass House is the most famous. In the necklace of Bangalore’s gardens, Lalbagh is a pendant and in the centre of this pendant is the glass house, in the form of a diamond. It was built in 1889 during the administration of Sir John Cameron to commemorate the visit of Prince of Wales.
8. The Lalbagh House, the Pigeon House, the Statue of Sri Chamaraja Wodeyar, the Museum and Cottage, the main gate of Lalbagh (Cameron gate), the Deer Paddock, the Aquarium building, and the Aviary and Kempegowda Tower are some artistic structures that can be seen in Lalbagh. Lalbagh Lake is an important location of interest.
9. Lalbagh is an important centre of dissemination of knowledge of plants having ornamental, environmental and economic value. Regular training courses on fruit and vegetable processing, mushroom cultivation and ornamental gardening and horticulture are offered by the Department of Horticulture.
Follow the Sample Practice to Solve the Other Question
25.1 On the basis of your reading of the passage make notes on it in points only, using abbreviations wherever necessary. Supply a suitable title. 25.2 Write a summary of the passage in 80 words.
11. Read the passage given below and answer the questions that follow.
1. Occupying a position marked by ethnic discrimination, social exclusion and violated rights, the Batwa Pygmies of Africa’s Great Lakes region continue to fight a battle for equality, that is steadily deteriorating their society. The “pygmy people of central Africa are traditionally hunter – gatherers living in the rainforests throughout central Africa. The term ‘pygmy’ has gained negative connotations, but has been reclaimed by some indigenous groups as a term of identity.
2. Primarily though, these communities identify themselves as ‘forest people’ due to the fundamental importance of the forest to their culture, livelihood and history. Different groups have different languages and hunting traditions. Although each community faces different threats and challenges; racism, logging and conservation are major problems for many, all contributing to serious health problems and violent abuse. Current estimates put the population of the ‘pygmy’ people at about half a million.
3. Central to the identity of these peoples is their intimate connection to the forest lands they have lived in, worshiped and protected for generations. Jengi, the spirit of the forest, is one of the few words common to many of the diverse languages spoken by forest peoples. The importance of the forest as their spiritual and physical home, and as the source of their religion, livelihood, medicine and cultural identity cannot be overstated.
4. Traditionally, small communities moved frequently through distinct forest territories, gathering a vast range of forest products, collecting wild honey and exchanging goods with neighbouring settled societies.
5. Hunting techniques vary among the forest people, and include bows and arrows, nets and spears.
6. But many communities have been displaced by conservation projects and their remaining forests have been degraded by extensive logging, expansion by farmers, and commercial activities such as intensive bush – meat trading.
7. Few have received compensation for the loss of their self – sufficient livelihoods in the forest and face extreme levels of poverty and ill – health in ‘squatter’ settlements on the fringes of the land that was once theirs. In Rwanda, for example, many Twa people who have been displaced from their lands earn a living by making and selling pottery. Now this livelihood is threatened by the loss of access to clay through the privatisation of land and by the increasing availability of plastic products. Begging and selling their labour cheaply have become the only options left to many displaced and marginalized forest people.
8. A fundamental problem for pygmy people is the lack of recognition of land rights for hunter – gatherers coupled with the denial of their “indigenous” status in many African states. Without nationally recognised rights to the forest lands on which they depend, outsiders or the state can take over their lands with no legal barriers and no compensation.
9. Those communities who have lost their traditional livelihoods and lands find themselves at the bottom of ‘mainstream’ society – the victims of pervasive discrimination affecting every aspect of their lives.
Follow the Sample Practice to Solve the Other Question
26.1 On the basis of your reading of the passage make notes on it in points only, using abbreviations wherever necessary. Supply a suitable title.
26.2 Write a summary of the passage in 80 words.
12. Read the passage given below and answer the questions that follow.
1. The history of cell phones embarks from the 1920s – a period during which radios were emerging as effective communication devices. The very first usage of radio phones were in taxi/cars using two – way radio communication.
2. The first official cell phone was used by the Swedish police in 1946. They made it functional by connecting a hand – held phone to the central telephone network. It was very similar to the two – way radio phone that was used in cars/taxis for portable communication.
3. A communication architecture of Hexagonal Cells was created for cell phones by D.H. Ring, of Bell Labs, in 1947. He discovered cell towers which had the capability to not only transmit but to also receive the signals in three different directions. Before this discovery, the cell phones only worked in two directions and through an antenna. The electronic components used in cell phones of today were first developed in the 1960s.
4. During this time, the technology of cell phone was already available. The problem that persisted during that time was that the user was restricted to ‘cell areas’. Cell areas were base stations covering a small land area. If the cell phone user traveled beyond the boundaries of the cell area, the user wouldn’t get signal.
5. This limitation of distance was resolved by an engineer at Bell Labs. Amos Edward Joel discovered and developed what he termed as the handoff system. This kind of technology enabled to continue the call from one area to the next and the call would not get dropped.
6. During this time, the technology for cell phones had been developed but it was only in 1971 that there was a request for cellular service. AT&T submitted a request for a public cellular service to the FCC in 1982. The request was processed almost after a decade.
7. Motorola DynaTAC 8000X was the first portable cell phone. The Federal Communications Commission approved it for public use after much deliberation and testing. Motorola DynaTAC, developed by Dr. Martin Cooper, took 15 years of development before it was made available to public. It weighed about 28 ounces. Its dimensions were 13 x 1.75 x 3.5 inches. Cell phones became popular during the 1983 to 1989 period. The innovations in communication technology include the ability of cell phones to handle calls from one area to another area way beyond the venue of the call. In the 1980s, a lot of cell phones were not designed to be hand – held. Formally, “car phone” were installed in cars and this had high demand in the market. The earliest models of the first generation cell phones were shaped like tote bags. These were hooked up to the battery of the car. Other models came in the form of briefcases. This was for large batteries that were needed to make emergency calls.
8. During the 1990s, the technology on which the cell phones worked was called 2G or second generation. These had a faster network and decreased chances of calls being dropped. The hand – held sets were smaller and weighed around 100 to 200 grams. The hand – held sets were portable. The advancements happened in cell phones, their batteries, computer chips, etc. Due to these improvements, the customer base expanded rapidly.
9. Today we use the third generation phones. These 3G cell phones have set standards which the network providers need to follow. The users can message other users via SMS, send emails and access the Internet, stream live videos/radio, and use the Wi – Fi.
Follow the Sample Practice to Solve the Other Question
27.1 On the basis of your reading of the passage make notes on it in points only, using abbreviations wherever necessary. Supply a suitable title.
27.2 Write a summary of the passage in 80 words.
13. Read the passage given below and answer the questions that follow.
1. Despite the French sounding name, papier mache was not made in France until the mid – seventeenth century. However, they were the first country in Europe to do so. Papier mache actually originated from China; the inventors of paper itself. They used papier mache to make helmets of all things, which they toughened by many layers of lacquer. Examples have been found dating back to the Han Dynasty (BC 202 – AD 220).
2. From China, the interest in papier mache spread to Japan and Persia, where it was used in mask making and festival activities. Eventually it spread across the world. Large imports of papier mache objects swamped European markets. This in turn led France to start making its own wares, and England followed suit in the 1670s. There was only a half – hearted interest until the late 1700s and into the 1800s, when it became widely used.
3. Papier mache (French for “chewed paper”) is believed to have got its name from French workers in London papier mache shops who did just that! Whether this is actually true or not we shall probably never know. The manufacturers didn’t seem to mind this idea being put about – possibly because it gave them the chance to hide their true methods and recipes, of which little is known about even today.
4. In 1740, the manufacturer John Baskerville, well known for his fine quality books and typefounding, began to imitate the lacquered pieces from Japan. This is how the term “japanning” came about. His business was very successful and later his assistant Henry Clay, invented a way to produce papier mache so strong that it was equally as durable as wood. He did this by gluing specially prepared paper under heat to form tough, heat resistant panels.
5. Henry Clay had taken out a patent on his invention, but when this ran out; small companies mushroomed, producing just about everything from papier mache. They were mostly concentrated in the Birmingham and Wolverhampton areas. It is from these companies that we get the beautifully decorated black enameled pieces that are so treasured today.
6. An Englishman, a Northamtonshire Quaker, who was a leading expert in the art of japanning, introduced papier mache into America. His name was William Allgood and he started up the Litchfield Manufacturing Company. He met with great success in his venture and the company became well known for its fabulously decorated clock cases.
7. Papier mache lived on in America more as a craft form rather than a manufacturing material. Women started to make useful and decorative household objects. In the 1960s, a bit more papier mache interest was injected by a New York artist called Gemma, who while working with her husband in Mexico managed to stir up a lot of interest amongst Mexican artists who were inspired by her work and were later even taught by her. This is despite Mexico’s long history of using papier mache for festivals and traditions, which are still going on today.
Follow the Sample Practice to Solve the Other Question
28.1 On the basis of your reading of the passage make notes on it in points only, using abbreviations wherever necessary. Supply a suitable title.
28.2 Write a summary of the passage in 80 words.
14. Read the passage given below and answer the questions that follow.
1. “Noise should be seen but not heard,” states one advertisement for window glass. However, we Indians love noise – the more the better! That’s the reason why we do not pay much attention given to noise reduction in homes.
2. An incident of outside noise causing problem to a residential area came up a few years ago. The newly opened high – rise building had installed an air – conditioner. The water used was recirculated by cooling through a motor/pump. This set off a continuous humming sound that was a source of annoyance to the neighbourhood. A complaint given to the owner of the building was ignored stating that the noise was within limits.
3. Thoroughly disappointed with such a negative attitude, some of the residents approached the Corporation authorities. Thanks to the investigation work done by the inspector concerned, the owner : agreed to install a barrier to contain the sound. Then the noise level reduced considerably much to the relief of the residents, who had suffered for so long.
4. Traffic noise is one of the sources of noise that affects a householder. He/she has little control over such man – made noise, except taking certain steps to minimise the effect of noise inside. Plants outside, where possible, could cut some of the noise. Blinds and drapes on windows could further act as barriers. It is rare to see a construction, which has proactively taken steps to install noise–reducing steps such as fixing foam boards and other sound absorbing materials inside or outside the walls. That applies to windows, which could have a frame outside that could absorb or deflect sound.
5. Noise generated inside a house is rarely recognised by someone who has been living along. He/she fails to appreciate the fact that the noise level is high and could have long – term deleterious effects such as loss of hearing or other effects on the human body due to prolonged exposure to noise. There are a few sources of noise inside a house – TV, music system, air – conditioner, washing machine, refrigerator, microwave and so on.
6. Some of the modern domestic appliances have less noise level. For example, a refrigerator, as it is on continuous operation, makes a buzzing noise when the compressor is activated periodically. The modern refrigerator, especially the compressor, is improved as far as energy and noise level are concerned as compared to the older versions. It would be desirable if the householder pays attention to noise emanating from domestic appliances and seeks advice before buying a particular model. While some noise is unavoidable, one has to look for constant buzz or heavy noise that could lead to long – term effects without one’s knowledge.
7. Loss of hearing is one health hazard which one recognises when it’s too late. Personal stereos and cellphones should be used with caution, preferably at reduced sound levels or with hand – held devices and that too sparingly. Another problem are noisy neighbours! We can only appeal to them to tone their TV/music system and talk/laugh less loudly!
8. Indoor drapes, shades, indoor plants and lower noise domestic equipment are the means to achieve lower noise levels for a comfortable living. A floor could have sound absorbing materials coated to minimise noise when someone walks on it. Sound absorbing material could be fixed inside or outside at strategic locations which could minimise the external noise effect. That applies to noise deflectors, such as barriers and plants that could deflect noise if it is from any specific location.
9. Noise could lead to health hazards, besides spoiling one’s mood when someone seeks quiet and peace at his/own home. The government has fixed a limit of 55 db maximum for residential areas during daytime and 45 db maximum during nighttime, which unfortunately is followed more in the breach than in practice. A citizen has a right to complain about noise that disturbs him. Police could lend a helping hand to shut down loudspeakers beyond 10 p.m. or warn a boisterous party going on next door.
Follow the Sample Practice to Solve the Other Question
29.1 On the basis of your reading of the passage make notes on it in points only, using abbreviations wherever necessary. Supply a suitable title.
29.2 Write a summary of the passage in 80 words.
15. Read the passage given below and answer the questions that follow.
1. Already in 1899, the core area of what today is the Periyar Sanctuary was declared a reserved forest in order to protect the catchment area of the Periyar River. This river has been dammed in 1895, resulting in several small lakes and a reservoir. In 1934, the area, including the reservoir, was declared a sanctuary. The total area of the present sanctuary is 777 kms today and it is located in the state of Kerala in the Cardamom Hill Ranges in the southernmost part of Western Ghats.
2. The climate is tropical with shifting vegetation and physical features. Precipitation is varying within Periyar with a mean annual rainfall of 2030 mm. An undulating hill landscape with several peaks between 1200 and 1800 m is merged with portions of lower terrain.
3. Four different types of vegetation characterize the landscape. ‘Sholas’ or tropical evergreen forest, semi – evergreen forest and moist deciduous forest, which is interrupted by grasslands and reed brakes (‘elephant grass’), particularly on higher altitudes. The fauna is rich, including mammals such as the endangered lion – tailed macaque monkey, the Nilgiri langur monkey, sloth bear, tiger, leopard, elephant, gaur, sambar deer, otter, wild boar and a small population of Nilgiri tahr. In addition to this, 181 bird species have been recorded, including the spectacular great Indian hornbill.
4. The indigenous population comprises a few tribal groups, now relocated outside the park. The Manan tribe, who formerly lived in the sanctuary, were relocated already in the 1950s. They were later deprived of the land given in compensation, thus left destitute. The Manan community numbers about 1000 people and can today be seen engaged in fishing and casual labour in the close vicinity of the sanctuary.
5. The pressure on the sanctuary has been intensive in the late 20th century. Each year it is estimated that 150,000 – 200,000 people visit Periyar , but the majority of these visitors are of Indian origin and make day visits by bus or car. A large number stay either in bungalows, lodges or hotels outside the sanctuary and enter the reserve in smaller boats, from which they can spot animals at the shores of the small lakes, or visit the Sabarimala Hindu Temple in the westernmost part of the sanctuary. A minority of the visitors are foreigners and many of them prefer to enter the fringes of the sanctuary by foot during day – trips or spot animals from smaller boats.
6. Earlier efforts to conserve the sanctuary have been jeopardised by the previously intensive exploitation of the forests and forest products, and in addition to this, the extensive poaching of tiger, elephant, sambar deer, gaur and wild boar. Much of this has been carried out by people from the neighbouring state of Tamil Nadu or other locals and to a lesser degree by dislocated tribal people.
7. Rosewood, teak, cinnamon bark and cardamom has also been logged or extracted illicitly in a major scale. Severe punishment for poaching has not deterred intruders from illegal hunting. Trespassers discovered with firearms within the sanctuary face a minimum prison term of 6 years. If they make use of their weapons, the penalty is 12 years rigorous imprisonment. This information was given independently by four different rangers in the area in 1998, 1999 and 2000. The severe punishment for poaching, or even trespassing increases the risk for the forest guards and local trackers, who regularly patrol the sanctuary, of being shot at by such armed intruders trying to escape.
Follow the Sample Practice to Solve the Other Question
30.1 On the basis of your reading of the passage make notes on it in points only, using abbreviations wherever necessary. Supply a suitable title.
30.2 Write a summary of the passage in 80 words.
Basic English Grammar rules can be tricky. In this article, we’ll get you started with the basics of sentence structure, punctuation, parts of speech, and more.
Unseen Passages for Class 8 CBSE With Questions and Answers PDF
Comprehension Passages for Class (Grade) 8 CBSE With Questions and Answers PDF
A. Read the passage and answer the questions that follow.
1. Social networking implies the use of internet programs to make connections with friends, family, classmates, customers and clients. Social networking can occur for social or business purposes through sites such as Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, etc. Social networks are as old as the internet technology that was first developed in the 1960s. After 2003, the social networks became very popular. Currently, internet users have more than two hundred social networks to choose from.
2. Social networking has many advantages. The biggest advantage is that you can stay in touch with your friends and family from all around the world. These social networks can be used to improve our social awareness. Students can explore topics that they are interested in by using online social networking. This can be done by interacting with people from different parts of the world. Teachers, students and professionals can also create discussion forums, or write blogs and posts to explore different and wide-ranging topics.
3. Social networking takes place online where people meet and share ideas and experiences. Many companies use social networks such as Twitter and Facebook to connect with customers and clients. This can create opportunities for relationship-building, brand-building, publicity and promotions.
4. However, there are several disadvantages of social networking sites as well. Cybercrime! and cyber bullying? have increased because it is hard to identify the offender and it is almost impossible to keep full-time surveillance in such a wide network. As people spend more time on social networking sites, they experience less face-to-face interaction which also makes them more dependent on devices. Addiction to online networking is yet another disadvantage. Fifty per cent of people between the age of 25 and 35 years admitted that they are so attached to social networks that they even use them during working hours.
A.1. Answer the following questions very briefly.
Question 1.
What are the three chief uses of social networking?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
Social networking has many uses. It helps one stay in touch with their friends and family from all around the world. These social networks can also be used to improve our social awareness. Students can explore topics that they are interested in by using online social networking. This can be done by interacting with people from different parts of the world.
Question 2.
When did social networking take off?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
Social networking took off after 2003 even though it is as old as the internet technology that was first developed in the 1960s.
Question 3.
Write a statement from the passage that shows the growing popularity of the internet.
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
The following statement from the passage shows the growing popularity of the internet—internet users have more than two hundred social networks to choose from.
Question 4.
How does social networking impact learning?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
Social networking promotes learning. It helps people meet and share ideas and experiences. Teachers, students and professionals can also create discussion forums, or write blogs and posts to explore different and wide-ranging topics.
Question 5.
How do companies benefit from social networking?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
Many companies benefit from social networking by using social networks such as Twitter and Facebook to connect with customers and prospective clients. This can create opportunities for relationship building, brand building, publicity and promotions.
Question 6.
How do social networking sites increase crime?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
Social networking increases cases of cybercrime and cyber bullying because it is hard to identify the offender and it is almost impossible to keep full-time surveillance in such a wide network.
Question 7.
What does social networking makes us dependent on?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
People spend more time on social networking sites, hence, they experience less face-to-face interaction which also makes them more dependent on devices.
Question 8.
What is meant by social networking addiction?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
Social networking addiction refers to spending most of one’s waking hours on social media sites instead of pursuing outdoor activities. In fact, fifty percent of people between the age of 25 and 35 years admitted that they are so attached to social networks that they even use them during office hours.
A.2. Pick antonyms of the words given below from the passage.
B. Read the passage and answer the questions that follow.
1. Lifestyle diseases are the diseases associated with the way people lead their lives. These include heart diseases, diabetes, obesity, etc. Across the world, about 14.2 million people between the ages of 30 and 69 years die prematurely each year from these diseases. Undoubtedly, urbanization and medical advancement have brought about tremendous improvements in healthcare and the general standards of living. But there have been many negative implications of the changed lifestyle behaviours as well. Dealing with day-to-day struggles, we often compromise on diet, exercise, rest and relaxation, making convenient but poor choices.
2. While the toll from infectious diseases like tuberculosis, influenza and smallpox has greatly reduced, lifestyle diseases such as depression, anxiety, psycho-emotional disturbances, unsocial responses, insomnia, eating disorders, drug addiction, cardiovascular diseases, gastric ulcers, obesity, early ageing, and cancer have seen a . dramatic rise. Consequently, these diseases have emerged as bigger killers than most infectious or hereditary ones.
3. Undoubtedly, technology has made our life simpler, but it has also caused a dramatic increase in pollution. This pollution of air, water, soil, noise and light has led to myriad problems. Noise pollution has led to an increase in neurotic problems, hypertension, ry problems and heart related diseases, while air pollution is responsible for many respiratory ailments and cancer. Water pollution has led to various water-borne diseases such as allergies, cholera, gastroenteritis and jaundice. Unhealthy food and a lack of exercise are a risk factor for various diseases.
4. In order to lead a healthy life in the present times, we must reduce the consumption of fast food, soft drinks and excessive consumption of fat. These should be replaced with cereals, vegetables, pulses, rice and milk. Physical exercise should be a part of our daily routine. We must have pollution-free zones. Over and above, we must develop a positive attitude in life. This will help us relax. We can improve our lives by redu for these diseases including the type of work we do, environmental factors that affect our living conditions, work environment, the food we eat, our exercise habits and stress.
B.1. Answer the following questions very briefly.
Question 1.
What are lifestyle diseases?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
Lifestyle diseases are the diseases associated with the way people lead their lives. These include heart diseases, diabetes, obesity, etc.
Question 2.
What is the alarming situation related to these diseases?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
Across the world, about 14.2 million people between the ages of 30 and 69 years die prematurely each year from the lifestyle diseases. While deaths from infectious diseases have decreased, lifestyle diseases such as depression, anxiety, psycho- emotional disturbances, unsocial responses, insomnia, eating disorders, drug addiction, cardiovascular diseases, gastric ulcers, obesity, early ageing, and cancers have seen a dramatic rise. Consequently, these diseases have emerged as bigger killers than most infectious or hereditary ones. This is quite alarming.
Question 3.
What are the two factors that have positively impacted health?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
Urbanization and medical advancement are the two factors that have positively impacted health and have brought about tremendous improvements in healthcare and the general standards of living.
Question 4.
Mention two disadvantages of modern lifestyle.
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
Modem lifestyle leads to a struggle to cope with the pressures of work and survival. We often compromise on diet, exercise, rest and relaxation, making convenient but poor choices. Unfortunately, lifestyle diseases have emerged as bigger killers than most infectious or hereditary ones.
Question 5.
What are the adverse effects of technology on our lives?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
Technology has made our life simpler, but it has also caused a dramatic increase in pollution. This pollution of air, water, soil, noise and light has led to myriad problems. Noise pollution has led to the increase of neurotic problems, hypertension, circulatory problems and heart related diseases, while air pollution is responsible for many respiratory ailments and cancer. Water pollution has led to various water borne diseases such as allergies, cholera, gastroenteritis and jaundice.
Question 6.
What has been the impact of noise pollution on us?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
Noise pollution has led to the increase of neurotic problems, hypertension, circulatory problems and heart related diseases, while air pollution is responsible for many respiratory ailments and cancer.
Question 7.
Mention two healthy and two unhealthy food items.
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
Fast food and soft drinks are two examples of unhealthy food items, while cereals, vegetables, pulses, rice and milk are healthy food items.
Question 8.
How does a positive mindset affect us?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
It is important to develop a positive attitude in life. A positive mindset helps us relax. This will help reduce lifestyle diseases.
B.2. Find words from the passage which are the synonyms of words given below.
Question 1.
ahead of time (para 1)
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
prematurely
C. Read the passage and answer the questions that follow.
1. Global warming is the term used to describe a gradual increase in the average temperature of the Earth’s atmosphere and its oceans. This causes a change in the Earth’s climate. Global warming occurs when carbon dioxide (CO,) and other air pollutants and greenhouse gasses collect in the atmosphere and absorb sunlight and solar radiation that have bounced off the Earth’s surface. Normally, this radiation would escape into space. But these pollutants, which can last for years even up to centuries in the atmosphere, trap the heat and make the planet warmer. This is known as the greenhouse effect.
2. Climatologists agree that the average temperature of the earth has risen between 0.4 and 0.8°C over the past 100 years. They feel that in the past 50 years, the average global temperature has increased at the fastest rate in recorded history. This is chiefly because the increased volumes of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases released by the burning of fossil fuels, land clearing, agriculture and other human activities have been the chief causes of the global warming that has occurred over the decade. Scientists now predict that average global temperatures could increase between 1.4 and 5.8°C by the year 2100.
3. Global warming has many environmental, economic, and health consequences. It will be manifested in the melting of the polar ice caps, as well as an increase in the occurrence verity of storms and other severe weather events such as wildfires. Rising sea levels could lead to coastal flooding. Thus, there could be pests, heat waves, heavy downpours and increased flooding as a result of global warming. And these could damage or destroy agriculture and fishing industry. Disruption of habitats such as coral. reefs and the Alpine meadows could drive many plant and animal species to extinction. Allergies, asthma and infectious disease outbreaks will become more common due to higher levels of air pollution and the spread of conditions favourable to microorganisms and mosquitoes.
C.1. Answer the following questions very briefly.
Question 1.
What is global warming?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
Global warming is the term used to describe a gradual increase in the average temperature of the Earth’s atmosphere and its oceans. This permanently changes the Earth’s climate.
Question 2.
What prevents radiations from escaping into space?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
Carbon dioxide (C02) and other air pollutants and greenhouse gasses that collect in the atmosphere prevent radiations from escaping into space.
Question 3.
What is the greenhouse effect?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
Pollutants such as carbon dioxide (C02) and greenhouse gasses collect in the atmosphere and absorb sunlight and solar radiation that have bounced off the Earth’s surface. These pollutants, which can last from years to centuries in the atmosphere, trap the heat and make the planet warmer. This is known as the greenhouse effect.
Question 4.
How is the climate changing at present?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
The average temperature of the planet Earth has risen between 0.4 and 0.8 °C over the past 100 years. Climatologists feel that in the past 50 years, the average global temperature has increased at the fastest rate in recorded history. Scientists now predict that average global temperatures could increase between 1.4 and 5.8 °C by the year 2100.
Question 5.
Name some human activities that lead to global warming.
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
Human activities like burning of fossil fuels, land clearing and agriculture have led to global warming.
Question 6.
Mention two environmental effects of global warming.
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
Global warming has tremendous environmental effects. It is manifested in the melting of the polar ice caps, as well as an increase in the occurrence and severity of storms and other severe weather events such as wildfires.
Question 7.
What is the economic impact of global warming?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
Rising sea level could cause floods, which will lead to the loss of life, livelihood and property. Global warming can also impact agriculture by increasing pests in the environment, thus affecting agriculture negatively.
Question 8.
How does global warming affect human health?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
Rising sea levels resulting from global warming could lead to coastal flooding. There could be pests, heat waves, heavy downpours and increased flooding. And these could damage or destroy the agriculture and fishing industry. Disruption of habitats such as coral reefs and the Alpine meadows could drive many plant and animal species to extinction. Allergies, asthma and infectious disease outbreaks will become more common due to higher levels of air pollution and the spread of conditions favorable to micro-organisms and mosquitoes.
D. Read the passage and answer the questions that follow.
1. The extinction of species, that is, our flora and fauna is nothing new for the planet, but the rate of extinction has increased at an alarming pace. Sadly, we have played a major role in the process. It has been estimated that some 50,000 plants and animal species will become extinct every year in the coming decades. The loss of insects and microorganisms, cannot be calculated. The destruction of our eco-system is so alarming that as many as 60,000 plant species are expected to be lost by the year 2025.
2. However, according to the Centre for Biological Diversity, ‘Unlike past mass extinctions caused by events like asteroid strikes, volcanic eruptions and natural climate shifts, the current crisis is almost entirely caused by us–humans. Ninety-nine per cent of currently threatened species are at risk from human activities, primarily those driving habitat loss, introduction of exotic species and global warming.’
3. The habitats are often destroyed because of destructive change to environments. These could either be attributed to natural phenomena such as floods, volcanoes and hurricanes or human activities such as construction, deforestation, changing land use for agriculture and artificial land drainage. Hunting and poaching of rare plants and animals is, a significant cause of extinction and represents a major or dominant factor in the decline of certain species. One such example of man’s callousness can be seen in the Nilgiris, once a peaceful haunt of a large herd of pachyderms, and which is now fast becoming a hunting ground. The forest areas of Gudlur and Mudumalai, which once resounded with elephants tramping in the undergrowth, are now witnessing the mindless slaughter of these gentle giants.
4. The introduction of plant and animal species that are not native to a given area may upset the balance of the local ecosystem. Pollution is yet another cause of extinction and may impact entire ecosystems. For example, the pesticide DDT had a catastrophic impact on our écology. The spread of disease may be both a natural and human factor behind the extinction of species.
D.1. Answer the following questions very briefly.
Question 1.
Why is the extinction of species a cause for alarm?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
The species—our flora or fauna—is now getting extinct at an alarming rate because of humans. It has been estimated that some 50,000 plants and animal species will become extinct every year in the coming decades. The loss of insects and micro-organisms cannot be calculated. The destruction of our eco-system is so alarming that as many as 60,000 plant species are expected to be lost by the year 2025.
Question 2.
How did extinction take place earlier?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
Extinction took place due to events like asteroid strikes, volcanic eruptions and natural climate shifts.
Question 3.
How is the next mass extinction likely to happen?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
Mass extinction is likely to happen because of humans. Ninety-nine per cent of currently threatened species are at risk from human activities, primarily those driving habitat loss, introduction of exotic species and global warming.
Question 4.
What kinds of activities threaten species?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
Human activities such as construction, deforestation, changing landuse for agriculture and artificial land drainage threaten species. Moreover, hunting and poaching of rare plants and animals is also a significant cause of extinction that may represent a major or dominant factor in the decline of certain species.
Question 5.
What are the two factors that can cause habitat loss?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
The habitats are often destroyed because of destructive change to environments. These could either be attributed to natural phenomena such as floods, volcanoes, hurricanes, etc. or human activities such as construction, deforestation, changing land use for agriculture and artificial land drainage.
Question 6.
How is the poaching of animals affecting certain species?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
As a result of animal poaching, certain animal species are on the verge of extinction.
Question 7.
How does the introduction of plant and animal species affect native species?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
The introduction of plant and animal species that are not native to a given area may upset the balance of the local ecosystem. Thus, it may affect native species.
Question 8.
What is the impact of pollution on species?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
Pollution is yet another cause of extinction and may impact entire ecosystems. For example, the pesticide DDT had a catastrophic impact on our ecology.
E. Read the passage and answer the questions that follow.
1. For the last many decades, people have been mystified about the presence of aliens. Efforts have been made to solve this puzzle because this will get us a step closer to discovering if Earth is the only planet to support life. If is difficult to know if extraterrestrials exist, unless they get in touch with us or we find some evidence of their existence. Scientists do not rule out the possibility of life in the form of bacteria or other microorganisms, rather than intelligent human beings. But the search continues.
2. NASA captured images of Mars and they revealed that the Red Planet is somewhat like Earth—it is likely to have had water at some point in its ancient history. Some stargazers claim to have seen aliens there. However, scientists do not support these claims. It is believed that Mars was frozen once upon a time-a few billion years ago. The surface of the planet melted, and this resulted in the creation of deep valleys and canyons on its surface.
3. Scientists believe that there could be bacteria on Mars that bear resemblance to the simple microbes that exist in the ice-bound lakes of Antarctica. Scientists believe like Earth, Mars too was struck by huge asteroids, sending fragments of both these planets into space. Scientists think that the discovery of life on Mars could help us understand how life first began on Earth.
4. Alfred McEwen, professor of Planetary Geology at the University of Arizona, said: the search for ancient life on Mars may really be the search for the origin of life on Earth’. The samples collected by NASA’s Mars Rovers have detected complex organic compounds on Mars. Professor McEwen feels life probably still survives there in pockets below the surface where it would be warmer and that the microbes were sheltered from cosmic radiation. This raises an interesting question-Did life originate on Earth and get transported to Mars or was it the other way round?
E.1. Answer the following questions very briefly.
Question 1.
Why has there been a mystery surrounding aliens?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
There has been a mystery surrounding aliens because no discovery has been made about their existence yet. People are curious to know how they look and what they are like.
Question 2.
Why have scientists been trying to solve the mystery?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
Scientists have been trying to solve the mystery because this will get us a step closer to discovering if Earth is the only planet to support life.
Question 3.
Why is it difficult for scientists to know the truth?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
It is difficult for scientists to know the truth because they have been unable to find any substantial evidence of aliens’ existence.
Question 4.
What kind of life do scientists expect on other planets?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
Scientists expect life in the form of bacteria or other micro-organisms on other planets.
Question 5.
Why is the possibility of life on Mars not ruled out?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
The possibility of life has not been ruled out on Mars because the images of Mars that have been captured by NASA revealed that it is similar to the planet Earth; it also shows that it is likely to have had water at some point in its ancient history.
Question 6.
What are the indications of water on Mars?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
NASA-captured images of Mars revealed that it resembles our planet Earth and it is likely to have had water at some point in its ancient history. It is believed that Mars was frozen once upon a time—a few billion years ago. The surface of the planet melted due to warming, and this resulted in the creation of deep valleys and canyons on its surface. Scientists believe this to be the reason for water-carved features there.
Question 7.
What is the similarity that the scientists see between Earth and Mars?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
Scientists believe that there could be a bacteria on Mars that bear resemblance to the simple microbes that exist in the ice-bound lakes of Antarctica. Scientists believe like Earth, Mars too was struck by huge asteroids, sending fragments of both these planets into space. Scientists think that the discovery of life on Mars could help us understand how life first began on Earth.
Question 8.
How will finding life on Mars help us?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
The search for ancient life on Mars may really be the search for the origin of life on Earth. The samples collected by the Mars Rovers of NASA have detected complex organic compounds on Mars. Professor McEwen feels life probably still survives there in pockets below the surface where it would be warmer and the microbes were sheltered from cosmic radiation.
E.2. Which words in the passage mean the following?
Question 1.
period of ten years (para 1)
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
decade
Question 2.
not belonging to this planet (para 1)
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
extraterrestrial
F. Read the passage and answer the questions that follow.
1. The word “Paralympic’ derives from the Greek preposition ‘para’ that means beside or alongside, and the word ‘Olympic’. This suggests that Paralympics are the parallel Games to the Olympics and exist side-by-side. These sports for athletes with some impairment have existed for more than 100 years. The first sport clubs for the deaf existed in 1888 in Berlin, but sports were formally introduced after World War II for veterans and civilians who had been injured during wartime. In 1944, a British neurologist, Dr Ludwig Guttmann, suggested this as a rehabilitation sport. It later evolved to recreational sport and then to competitive sport. In July 1948, Dr Guttmann organized the first competition for wheelchair athletes. Paralympics Games took place in Rome, Italy in 1960 featuring 400 athletes from 23 countries. Since then they have taken place every four years.
2. Before Paralympics, differently-abled individuals with disability were as treated as ill. This gave the individuals with disabilities a feeling of inferiority, and it impacted the way they viewed their own roles in society, including their involvement in sports. But this is no longer true. Now these individuals participate in all levels of society, including sports. The focus is not on the athletes’ disabilities, but their abilities; instead of poring over their disability, it celebrates their extraordinary prowess. They are no longer pitied or ‘looked down upon’. Today these heroes of Paralympics are also admired by the society for their achievements
3. Paralympians now get the respect they deserve. However, the real progress will come when those with disabilities will not be seen as second-class citizens or as superhuman symbols of virtue. It will be when they shall be acceptable as everybody else and will get support when they need it.
F.1. Answer the following questions very briefly.
Question 1.
What does the term “Paralympics’ mean?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
The word ‘Paralympic’ is derived from the Greek preposition ‘para’ that means beside or alongside, and the word ‘Olympic’. This suggests that Paralympics are the parallel Games to the Olympics and exist side-by-side.
Question 2.
Who participates in the Paralympics?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
Athletes with some impairment participate in the Paralympics.
Question 3.
When was the first club for the physically impaired set up?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
The first sport clubs for the physically impaired existed in 1888 in Berlin, but sports were formally introduced after World War II for veterans and civilians who had been injured during wartime.
Question 4.
Who was Dr Ludwig Guttmann?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
Ludwig Guttmann was a British man who suggested sports for the physically impaired as a way of their rehabilitation. Ludwig Guttmann organized the first competition for wheelchair athletes in July 1948. It is because of him that the Paralympics Games took place in Rome, Italy in 1960 featuring 400 athletes from 23 countries. Since then they have taken place every four years.
Question 5.
What is Dr Guttmann’s contribution to the Paralympics?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
Before Paralympics, differently-abled individuals with disability were as treated as ill. This gave the individuals with disabilities a feeling of inferiority, and it impacted the way they viewed their own roles in society, including their involvement in sports.
Question 6.
How were differently-abled individuals treated before the Paralympics?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Question 7.
How have the Paralympics helped these individuals?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
The focus of Paralympics is not on the athletes’ disabilities, but their abilities; instead of poring over their disability, it celebrates their extraordinary prowess. They are no longer pitied or ‘looked down upon’. Today these heroes of Paralympics are also admired by the society for their achievements. Paralympians now get the respect they deserve.
Question 8.
What will be the real victory for the Paralympians?
…………………………………………………………………………..
…………………………………………………………………………..
Answer:
The real victory will come when those with disabilities will not be seen as second-class citizens or as superhuman symbols of virtue. It will be when they shall be acceptable as everybody else and will get support when they need it.
G. Read the passage and answer the questions that follow.
1. Coral reefs are diverse underwater ecosystems. These are built by colonies of tiny animals found in marine waters that contain few nutrients. Tens of thousands of marine species live there. These include about one-third of all marine fish species. Coral reefs not only add incredible value as wildlife habitat, but also protect coastlines from storms and provide jobs worth billions to people around the world.
2. Corals are ancient animals related to jellyfish. An individual coral is known as a polyp, a. very small and simple organism. It has a tentacle-bearing mouth. Thousands of identical polyps live together in a coral colony. Each polyp excretes calcium carbonate and over long periods of time; many coral colonies add up to the structure of a coral reef. Many other species—fish, invertebrates, algae and microorganisms-make their homes on and around this reef. Reefs only occur in shallow areas that get sunlight. However, some coral reefs extend even deeper, up to about 450 feet deep. These reef-building corals are animals that act like plants. They stay in one place and get some of their energy from the sun. In India, coral reefs are located in Lakshadweep, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, the Gulf of Kutch and the Gulf of Marwar.
3. Coral reefs are one of the most sensitive ecosystems, and a large number of reefs are on the brink of extinction. The major factor for the destruction of coral reefs is global warming due to increased carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. Studies have shown that even one degree Celcius rise above normal temperature can result in a large-scale destruction. Besides this, water pollution, destructive fishing practices, oil spills and tourism activities also play an important part in destroying corals.
4. Coral reefs are of immense value, but their entire presence in the world adds up to less than one per cent of the sea floor.
G.1. Answer the following questions very briefly.
Question 1.
What are coral reefs?
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Answer:
Coral reefs are diverse underwater ecosystems. These are built by colonies of tiny animals found in marine waters that contain few nutrients. Tens of thousands of marine species live there.
Question 2.
How are these built?
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Answer:
Coral reefs are built by colonies of tiny animals found in marine waters that contain few nutrients. Thousands of identical polyps live together in a coral colony. Each polyp excretes calcium carbonate and over long periods of time, many coral colonies add up to the structure of a coral reef. Many other species—fish, invertebrates, algae and microorganisms—make their homes on and around this reef.
Question 3.
Why are they very rich in marine life?
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Answer:
Coral reefs are rich in marine life because different kinds of species make their homes around it.
Question 4.
What are polyps?
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Answer:
An individual coral is known as a polyp, which is a very small and simple organism. It has a tentacle-bearing mouth. Thousands of identical polyps live together in a coral colony.
Question 5.
Why do reefs generally exist in shallow areas?
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Answer:
Reefs mostly occur in shallow areas because these areas get sunlight. Corals stay in one place and get some of their energy from the sun.
Question 6.
How are reef-building corals similar to plants?
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Answer:
Reef-building corals are animals that act like plants. They stay in one place and get some of their energy from the sun, just like plants.
Question 7.
Why are coral reefs on the verge of extinction? Give two reasons.
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Answer:
Coral reefs are one of the most sensitive ecosystems, and a large number of reefs are on the brink of extinction. The major factor for the destruction of coral reefs is global warming due to increased carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. Studies have shown that even one degree Celcius rise above normal temperature can result in a large-scale destruction. Besides this, water pollution, destructive fishing practices, oil spills, tourism activities and collection of rare species also play an important part in destroying corals.
Question 8.
How does water pollution affect coral reefs?
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Answer:
Destructive fishing practices and oil spills affect coral reefs as these are sensitive ecosystems.
H. Read the passage and answer the questions that follow.
1. The Concise Oxford Dictionary defines music as ‘the art of combining vocal or instrumental sounds (or both) to produce beauty of form, harmony and expression of emotion’. It is a form of art wherein different sounds are merged together to create a pleasing sound. The word “music’ comes from the Greek word ‘mousike’, which means ‘art of the Muses’. In ancient Greece, the Muses included the goddesses of music, poetry, art and dance. Music is not only for entertainment. It touches the soul and thus is capable of breaking boundaries to unite people from different backgrounds and cultural heritage. It dissolves the physical boundaries of the nations. It removes the barriers of age and language, and speaks to us all. Thus, it is the singular greatest force that is capable of binding people in brotherhood, love as well as peace.
2. Legends talk about the magical power of music. Orpheus, a legendary Greek master musician and lyre-player, had the ability to charm all living things and even stones with his music. Tansen and Baiju Bawra could light lamps, melt stones, blossom flowers in autumn, and make it rain just by the precise use of the accurate tune. The importance of music is felt even more in today’s stress-riddled life. Music soothes the nerves and helps us relax. Melody has the power to cure mental or physical exhaustion. It has been proved that music has miraculous powers to treat anxiety and depression. It is also known to cure insomnia. Music also helps us to connect with our deeper self and bring our emotions to the fore.
3. Music is known to help children develop linguistic skills. They are fascinated with the tone and try to repeat and figure out the meaning. Children should be introduced to the basics concepts of music in school at an early age and if they show any inclination towards it, they will have ample time to pursue it.
4. Music is also the best expression of emotions. One can express anger, love, passion, joy and other kinds of feelings simply through music. It has the ability to convey what words cannot. This is why accomplished musicians are held in very high esteem and most coveted awards have been conferred upon them.
H.1. Answer the following questions very briefly.
Question 1.
How do you define music?
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Answer:
Music is defined as ‘the art of combining vocal or instrumental sounds (or both) to produce beauty of form, harmony, and expression of emotion’. It is a form of art wherein different sounds are merged together to create a pleasing sound.
Question 2.
Where does music get its name from?
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Answer:
The word ‘music’ comes from the Greek word ‘mousike’, which means ‘art of the Muses’.
Question 3.
Why is music an important part of our lives?
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Answer:
Music is an important part of our lives because it touches the soul and thus is capable of breaking boundaries to unite people from different backgrounds and cultural heritage. It dissolves the physical boundaries of the nations. It removes the barriers of age and language and speaks to us all. Thus, it is the singular greatest force that is capable of binding people in brotherhood, love as well as peace.
Question 4.
How did Orpheus create magic with his music?
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Answer:
Orpheus, a legendary Greek master-musician and lyre-player, had the ability to charm all living things and even stones with his music. Thus, he could create magic with his music.
Question 5.
Mention two legendary Indian musicians. What could they accomplish with their music?
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Answer:
Tansen and Baiju Bawra could light lamps, melt stones, blossom flowers in autumn, make it rain just by the accurate use of the accurate tune.
Question 6.
How does music benefit children?
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Answer:
Music is known to help children develop linguistic skills. They are fascinated with the tone and try to repeat and figure out the meaning. Children should be introduced to the basics concepts of music in school at an early age and if they show any inclination towards it, they will have ample time to pursue it.
Question 7.
How is music’ an expression of our emotions?
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Answer:
Music soothes the nerves and helps us relax. Melody has the power to cure mental or physical exhaustion. It has been proved that music has miraculous powers to treat anxiety and depression. It is also known to cure insomnia. Music also helps us to connect with our deeper self and bring our emotions to the fore. One can express anger, love, passion, joy and other kinds of feelings simply through music. Music is thus accepted as an expression of emotions.
Question 8.
Why are musicians held in great esteem in our society?
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Answer:
Music helps us to connect with our deeper self and bring our emotions to the fore. It has the ability to convey what words cannot. Tfeis is why accomplished musicians are held in very high esteem and most coveted awards have been conferred upon them.
H.2. Which words in the passage mean the following?
I. Read the passage and answer the questions that follow.
1. The indigenous cultures of Australia were the oldest living cultural history in the world. The Aboriginal cultures survived for more than 50,000 years chiefly because of their ability to adapt. However, they kept their cultural heritage alive by passing their knowledge, arts, rituals and performances from one generation to another.
2. These Aboriginals were semi-nomadic hunters and gatherers. Each clan had its own territory or ‘traditional lands’. These lands were demarcated by rivers, lakes and mountains. They understood and cared for their different environments, and adapted to them.
3. There were about 600 different clans with distinctive cultures and beliefs. Their “traditional lands’ were very different. They could be fertile lands, lush woodland areas or harsh desert areas. Consequently, they developed different skills and took on responsibilities that suited that particular environment.
4. The tools also varied according to the geographical terrain. For example, coastal tribes used fishbone to tip their weapons, whereas desert tribes used stone tips. All Aboriginal people had knives, scrapers, axe-heads, spears, various vessels for eating and drinking, and digging sticks. These people were the first to use stone tools and to prepare animal skins. Land was sacred for them.
5. Art, music, song and dance had been an important part of Aboriginal life and customs. They excelled in song, dance, body decoration, sculpture and painting. They sang and danced at large ceremonial gatherings when there was plenty of food. The emergence of ‘dot’ paintings by these people in the early 1970s has been called the greatest art movement of the twentieth century. This can be seen in the Papunya Tula art. At present, their art is drawn on paper, canvas, fibre and glass. It reflects customary patterns as well as their history.
6. Aboriginal tourism has only recently emerged as an industry to promote aboriginal culture and lifestyle. The experiences range from organized tours to dance performances, the purchase of traditional Aboriginal artefacts and an opportunity to stay on Aboriginal land to experience the daily lives of the Aboriginal people. This provides them with an economic base and also ensures that the Aboriginal heritage is sustained.
I.1. Answer the following questions very briefly.
Question 1.
What was the main reason for the survival of the Aboriginal culture?
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Answer:
The Aboriginal cultures have survived for more than 50,000 years chiefly because of their ability to adapt. However, they keep their cultural heritage alive by passing their knowledge, arts, rituals and performances from one generation to another.
Question 2.
What were the main professions of the Aboriginal tribes?
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Answer:
These Aboriginals were semi-nomadic hunters and gatherers. Each clan had its own territory or ‘traditional lands’. These lands were demarcated by rivers, lakes and mountains. They understood and cared for their different environments, and adapted to them.
Question 3.
How did topographic variation impact the Aboriginal tribes?
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Answer:
There were about 600 different clans in the Aboriginal tribes with distinctive cultures and beliefs. Their ‘traditional lands’ were very different. They could be fertile lands, lush woodland areas or harsh desert areas. Consequently, they developed different skills and took on responsibilities that suited that particular environment.
Question 4.
What was the variation in tools seen among the different tribes?
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Answer:
The tools used by the Aboriginals varied according to the geographical terrain. For example, coastal tribes used fishbone to tip their weapons, whereas desert tribes used stone tips. All Aboriginal people had knives, scrapers, axe-heads, spears, various vessels for eating and drinking, and digging sticks. These people were the first to use stone tools and to prepare animal skins.
Question 5.
How did the Aboriginal tribes express their art?
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Answer:
Art has always been an important part of Aboriginal life and customs. They excelled in body decoration, sculpture and painting. The emergence of ‘dot’ paintings by these people in the early 1970s has been called the greatest art movement of the twentieth century. This can be seen in the Papunya Tula art. At present, their art is drawn on paper, canvas, fibre and glass. It reflects customary patterns as well as their history.
Question 6.
Who is an Aboriginal?
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Answer:
An Aboriginal is a member of the indigenous cultures of Australia which are the oldest living cultural history in the world.
Question 7.
What do the tourists experience with the Aboriginal tribes?
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Answer:
Aboriginal tourism has only recently emerged as an industry to promote aboriginal culture and lifestyle. The experiences range from organized tours to dance performances, the purchase of traditional Aboriginal artefacts and an opportunity to stay on Aboriginal land to experience the daily lives of the Aboriginal people.
Question 8.
How does tourism help the Aboriginal tribes?
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Answer:
Tourism provides them with an economic base and also ensures that the Aboriginal heritage is sustained.
I.2. Pick the antonyms of the following words from the passage.
Question 3.
united (para 2)
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Answer:
demarcated
Question 4.
similar (para 2)
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Answer:
different
J. Read the passage and answer the questions that follow.
1. Among the most oft-repeated words in our daily lives is ‘thank you’. However, mechanical repetition of these words has robbed it of its essence—the heartfelt gratitude that the words seek to express. True thanksgiving goes deeper than mere words. It arises out of appreciation and gratitude—sometimes even for the gift of life out of a sense of wonder and humility, acknowledgement and submission.
2. Most of us can narrate a number of incidents when these words are uttered distantly and impassively. But very few would be able to recount even a single incident in the recent past when warm and heartfelt gratitude was either given or received. These golden words seem to have lost their true purpose and meaning in the hurly-burly of our busy schedules, leaving us with little time to think deeply or even from the heart.
3. Gratitude is more than just another emotion or expression of humility. It is an attitude, a way of life, even a gateway to a happy, positive and reassured life. Incredible as it might seem, this simple emotion has the potential to release positive forces like love, hope, compassion, humility, joy, reassurance and faith in an individual’s life. In the material world, gratitude is like a smile. If sincere, it transmits immense joy to both the giver and receiver. A heartfelt ‘thank you’can introduce joy and happiness even in those domains where there is a very practical exchange of money and services.
J.1. Answer the following questions very briefly.
Question 1.
Which words are very often repeated?
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Answer:
An oft-repeated words in our daily lives are ‘thank you’ and ‘welcome’.
Question 2.
If these words are used mechanically, what do they not convey?
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Answer:
If these words are used mechanically, they do not convey the heartfelt gratitude that the words seek to express. True thanks giving goes deeper than mere words; it arises out of appreciation and gratitude—sometimes even for the gift of life—out of a sense of wonder and humility, acknowledgment and submission.
Question 3.
What are the golden words? Why does the author say that they have lost their true meaning and purpose?
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Answer:
The golden words are words of thankfulness and appreciation. The author says that they have lost their true meaning and purpose in the hurly-burly of our busy schedules, leaving us with little time to think deeply or even from the heart.
Question 4.
a. Which emotion releases positive feelings?
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Answer:
a. Gratitude and humility release positive feelings.
b. What are these positive forces?
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Answer:
b. These positive forces are love, hope, compassion, humility, joy, reassurance, and faith in an individual’s life.
Question 5.
What is the effect of a heartfelt “thank you’?
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Answer:
If sincere, a heartfelt ‘thank you’ transmits immense joy to both the giver and receiver. A heartfelt ‘thank you’ can introduce joy and happiness even in those domains where there is a very practical exchange of money and services.
J.2. Give words from the passage that are antonyms of words given below.
