Listening skills are crucial in both personal and social aspects of human interaction. They involve paying attention, interpreting, participating in conversations, showing involvement in social situations, and subsequently responding appropriately. Good listening skills are characterised by actively engaging with speaker, understanding their message, and providing meaningful responses. Therefore, honing listening skills is essential for enhancing communication effectiveness and fostering meaningful connections with others.
Instructions:
- a) Write any three (from the handbook that is from 1 to 30) and two from outside the handbook (that is from 31 to 33)
- b) All together the students needs to write 5 (five) – (three from the handbook & two from outside the handbook)
Exercises
1. Two Friends
Two friends, Amanda and Margot, one day, were walking together in a desert arguing over some topic. In the heat of an argument, Margot slapped Amanda in the face. Amanda was hurt, but without saying anything, wrote in the sand, “Today, my best friend Margot slapped me in the face”. They kept on walking until they found an oasis, where they decided to cool down with a dip in the water. While bathing, Amanda got stuck in the mire and started sinking into the wet sand. Then, naturally, and unhesitatingly, Margot saved her by pulling her out of the quicksand. After recovering from the near-death experience, after returning home, Amanda carved on a stone, “Today, best friend Margot saved my life”. On being asked by the confused Margot why she did so, Amanda replied, “When someone hurts us, we should write it down in sand, where winds of forgiveness can erase it, but when someone does something good for us, we must engrave it on a stone, so no wind can erase it”.
Answer the following questions.
i. Name the friends mentioned in the passage.
ii. Where were the two friends walking?
iii. Why did Margot slap Amanda?
iv. How did Amanda feel when Margot slapped her?
v. Amanda slapped Margot in return. True or False.
vi. What did Amanda write in the sand?
vii. How would you describe the two friends based on their behaviour?
viii. What happened to Amanda when she was bathing?
ix. Do you think Margot would be a changed person after the experience? Give reasons.
x. What did Amanda write on a stone?
Answers:
i. Amanda and Margot.
ii. In a desert.
iii. In an argument.
iv. She was hurt.
v. False.
vi. Margot slapped her.
vii. Caring and forgiving.
viii. Stuck in mire.
ix. Yes, valued friendship more.
x. Margot saved her life.
2. Giving Pays
“You will die within a year”, highly skilled physicians told John.D. Rockefeller, the first billionaire in the world. At that time, he was only 53. Being the richest man in the world, he could buy anything, but could only eat soup and crackers. As he approached death, he awoke one morning with the realization of not being able to take any of his wealth with him into the next world. The man who could control the business world suddenly realised he was not in control of his own life. He was left with a choice: either die in sorrow and self-pity, or establish a foundation and channelize his assets to hospitals, research and charity work. His charity would eventually lead to the discovery of penicillin, cures for malaria, tuberculosis and diphtheria. But the most amazing part of Rockefeller’s story is that the moment he began to give back to society, his health changed for the better until he recovered completely. From being dead at 53, he lived till he turned 98
Answer the following questions.
i. What did physicians tell John Rockefeller when he was just 53?
ii. What was the paradox of Rockefeller’s life?
iii. Rockefeller died at the age of 53. True or False.
iv. What was Rockefeller’s specialty?
v. Write the word used in the passage which means giving money, food, help etc to people in need.
vi. What realisation dawned upon Rockefeller?
vii. Rockefeller discovered penicillin. True or False.
viii. Name the diseases mentioned in the passage?
ix. What do you think actually extended Rockefeller’s life?
x. How long did Rockefeller live?
Answers
i. He would die within a year.
ii. Rich but couldn’t control life.
iii. False.
iv. Business.
v. Charity.
vi. He couldn’t take wealth with him.
vii. False.
viii. Malaria, tuberculosis, diphtheria.
ix. Giving back to society.
x. Until 98 years old.
3. Pencil Preaches…
A pencil seems to be small but teaches six great lessons of life. Surprising? See how! (i) The pencil suffers a little when we use a sharpener but afterwards, it is much sharper. So let’s learn to bear certain pains and sorrows because they will make us better persons. (ii) It allows us to use an eraser to rub out mistakes. This means correcting something we did is not necessarily a bad thing, it helps us to keep the right path. (iii) What really matters in it is not its wooden exterior, but the graphite inside. So let’s always pay attention to what is happening inside us. (vi) It always leaves a mark. In just the same way, everything we do in life will leave a mark. So let’s try to be conscious of that in every action of ours. (v) It gets shorter and shorter with use. So does life. Let’s make the most while it lasts. (vi) It writes till the end. Let’s try to be useful and productive till the end.
Answer the following questions.
i. According to the speaker, how many lessons of life does a pencil teach us?
ii. When does a pencil suffer?
iii. What is the result of bearing pains and sorrows?
iv. Correcting something we have done is a bad thing. True or False.
v. What do we learn by correcting our errors?
vi. What matters most in a pencil?
vii. As per the text, what is the exterior part of a pencil made of?
viii. We should always pay attention to what is happening inside us. True or False.
ix. According to the speaker, what happens to the pencil if we use it?
x. Find the word from the passage which means outer.
Answers
i. Six lessons.
ii. When sharpened.
iii. It makes us better.
iv. False.
v. It keeps us on the right path.
vi. The graphite inside.
vii. Wood.
viii. True.
ix. It gets shorter.
x. Exterior.
4. UBUNTU
“Ready… steady… go!”, the referee announced the beginning of the race. A basket of sweets was placed near a tree and the participating African Tribal Children were made to stand 100 meters away. The winner of the race would get all the sweets in the basket. Everyone there was anxious to see the winner. To their surprise, all the participants held one another’s hand, ran together towards the tree and divided the sweets equally among themselves. When the amazed referee asked why they did so, all of them cried in one voice, “UBUNTU” by which they meant “How can one be happy when the others are sad?” Ubuntu in their language means, ‘I am, because we are’. It’s a strong message for all generations. Let’s all have this attitude and spread happiness wherever we go.
Answer the following questions.
i. What did the referee announce?
ii. According to the speaker, what were there in the basket?
iii. Where was the basket kept?
iv. The winner of the race would get a gold medal. True or False.
v. As per the text, the participants belong to the USA. True or False.
vi. The referee was amazed because no one tried to run the race. True or False.
vii. What did the participants utter in one voice after the race?
viii. ‘Sharing increases happiness. Support the statement with a sentence in the passage
ix. What can we spread, if we have ‘UBUNTU’ attitude?
x. What does ‘Ubuntu’ in their language mean?
Answers
i. “Ready… steady… go!”
ii. Sweets.
iii. Near a tree.
iv. False.
v. False.
vi. False.
vii. “UBUNTU.”
viii. “How can one be happy when the others are sad?”
ix. Happiness.
x. “I am, because we are.”
5. Indomitable Indeed!
“Dreaming big and working hard-this nineteen-year-old ‘runs’ home after his work shift as he dreams to be in the army,” said German Embassy, India. This sample encomium is in response to the viral video of Vinod Kapri, a filmmaker and author. It is about Pradeep Mehra, a nineteen-year-old army aspirant from Almora of Uttarakhand. One night, Kapri saw him running on the roads of Noida. On being asked why he was sprinting. Pradeep replied that his dream was to join the army. So, he runs ten kilometres a day from his workplace to his home at Barola. He supports his elder brother, cooks food for him and thinks of his ailing mother back home. He is so firm about his routine and views that he smilingly said ‘no’ to Kapri’s offer of dinner and dropping at his destination. By declining Kapri’s offer to drive him home, Pradeep is in fact driving home the value of regular hard work!
Answer the following questions.
i. Who is the young man mentioned in the passage?
ii. Who shared the viral video discussed in the passage?
iii. Name the foreign embassy cited in the passage?
iv. Pick out from the passage the synonym of the word praise.
v. Where does Pradeep Mehra hail from?
vi. Why does Pradeep Mehra run from home to his workplace every day?
vii. Pradeep used to run twenty kilometer a day. True or False.
viii. What did Vinod Kapri offer Pradeep Mehra?
ix. How did Pradeep respond to Kapri’s offer?
x. Find the idiom used in the passage which means making others understand.
Answers
i. Pradeep Mehra.
ii. Vinod Kapri.
iii. German Embassy, India.
iv. Encomium.
v. Almora, Uttarakhand.
vi. To join the army.
vii. False.
viii. Dinner and a ride home.
ix. He declined.
x. Driving home.
6. Age No Barrier
Quest for knowledge is unquenchable. The more one tastes it the more the person craves for it. And it lasts till one’s last moment. Nothing can deter the determined mind from the pursuit. Here is a proof in a retired but untiring bank employee. After he hung up his boots, he acquired a dozen degrees in different domains like Business Administration, Covid 19, Crime, Psychology, Law and Software. What could be his motive? “My urge to set an example to youth drove me,” answers Shri Ramalingeswara Rao. B., from the heart of Hyderabad, Somajiguda. Proving that good manners are infectious, his son is an II Tian (with a dual degree) and his daughter (state 8th Ranker in EAMCET in united AP) is a postgraduate in medicine. He spreads his reach into disciplines like serving the orphaned and aged persons. When he is not doing these, he is writing poetry and raising coffee plantations in cool Karnataka hill slopes. Does one need more to live fully and meaningfully? Let’s emulate him!
Answer the following questions.
i. According to the passage, what is unquenchable?
ii. How long does the craving for knowledge last?
iii. Nothing can deter the determined mind from the pursuit? True or False.
iv. Find the idiom used in the passage to mean retired.
v. Where does Ramalingeswara Rao hail from?
vi. Ramalingeswara Rao acquired ten degrees after his retirement. True or False.
vii. What is Ramalingeswara Rao’s motive?
viii. “Good manners are infectious”, asserts the passage. What evidence does it provide?
ix. How does Ramalingeswara Rao spend his time now?
x. What message can we draw from the life of Ramalingeswara Rao?
Answers
i. Quest for knowledge.
ii. Till one’s last moment.
iii. True.
iv. Hung up his boots.
v. Somajiguda, Hyderabad.
vi. False.
vii. To set an example for youth.
viii. His son and daughter’s achievements.
ix. Serving orphans, writing poetry, raising coffee plantations.
x. Live fully and meaningfully.
7. Here is a speech by a student.
Dear friends,
As we gather here tonight, we bid farewell to our beloved senior students who are about to embark on a new journey beyond these familiar halls. It’s a bittersweet moment for all of us, filled with memories of laughter, learning, and camaraderie.
To our classmates, you have been more than just seniors; you have
been mentors, friends, and inspiration to us all. Your dedication, hard work,
and leadership have left an indelible mark on our school community.
As you step into the next chapter of your lives, remember the lessons you’ve learned within these walls. Cherish the friendships you’ve made, the challenges you’ve overcome, and the successes you’ve achieved. Carry with you the values of integrity, perseverance, and kindness that have guided you thus far.
Though we bid you farewell tonight, know that you will always have a home here, and your legacy will continue to inspire generations of students to come.
To our seniors, we wish every success and happiness in future endeavors. May your dreams take flight, and may you always strive for excellence in all that you do.
Congratulations, and farewell!
Questions.
i. Based on your understanding, what is the speech all about?
ii. Who are being given farewell?
iii. What do seniors leave behind in the school community?
iv. What should seniors carry with them?
v. “Though we bid you farewell tonight, know that you will always have a here, and your legacy will continue to inspire generations of students to come.” Complete the sentence with the correct word.
vi. “Seniors will forget their friendships.” On the basis of the speech, say true or false
vii. “Your dedication, hard work, and leadership have left an indelible mark on our school community.” What does ‘Your’ refer to here?
viii. What is the tense of the verb in “You will always have”?
ix. What is the overall emotion of the speech? Choose from the options.
a) Joy
b) Sadness
c) Nostalgia/bittersweet moment
d) Excitement
x. What is the primary message conveyed to the senior students? Choose from the options.
a) Remember
b) Cherish
c) Achieve
d) Forget
Answers:
i. Farewell speech
ii. Seniors
iii. Legacy
iv. Values
v. Home
vi. False
vii. Seniors
viii. Future
ix. “C” – (Nostalgia/bittersweet moment)
x. “B” – Cherish
8. Private Tragedy Serving a Public Cause
In 1959, Falguni Manjhi, wife of Dasarath Manjhi, fell down a mountain path and died of the injuries she sustained. She could not be rushed to hospital as the road to their village Gehlaur near Gaya in Bihar, was circuitous. It had to go round the mountains. Manjhi, a labourer was moved into action by her death. Born into a low caste, he thought high. He started carving a path through the ridges. People called him a lunatic. Yet, he toiled with a hammer, chisel. and his steely resolve. Twenty-two years (1960-1982) of his single-handed efforts bore fruit. The 110 metre-long. 9.1 metre-wide and 7.7 metre-deep path he carved through the ridges reduced the distance between Gehlaur and Gaya by forty kilometres (from 55 to 15 KMs). The Bihar Government honoured him. India Post released a stamp featuring him. A memorial with his statue stands tall in Gehlaur. People fondly remember him as the Mountain Man. Yet, the real reward to this departed soul could be to provide roads and medical aid to every village in India!
Questions.
i. “Faith can move mountains”, “Where there is a will, there is a way”. Consider if either of these two sayings can be an alternative title to the passage, Give reasons.
ii. Mention the reasons for Falguni’s death.
iii.Where did Manjhi hail from?
iv. How did Falguni’s death move her husband. Manjhi?
Find out the idiom used in the passage to mean had a successful result
vi. What is the length of the path that Manjhi carved through the ridges?
vii. How much time did Manjhi take to carve the path?
vill. Pick the word from the passage which means an Insane person.
ix. How do you know that the people are grateful to this humble labourer?
x. What is the real tribute to the Mountain Man’, Manjhi?
Answers:
i. Yes, perseverance
ii. Mountain injury
iii. Gehlaur, Bihar
iv. Began carving a mountain path.
v. Bore fruit.
vi. 110 meters.
vii. Twenty-two years.
viii. Lunatic.
ix. Memorial and his statue.
x. Roads and medical aid.
9. Here is a brief talk on the birth anniversary of Dr. B.R.Ambedkar.
Ladies and gentlemen,
Today, on April 14th, we come together to celebrate the birth anniversary of a true champion of social justice and equality, Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Born on this day in 1891, Dr. Ambedkar’s life and achievements continue to inspire and guide us in our ongoing struggle for a fair and equitable society.
Dr. Ambedkar’s journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and determination in the face of adversity. Despite facing discrimination and oppression from a young age, he rose to prominence through his unparalleled intellect and unwavering commitment to social reform.
Among his many achievements, Dr. Ambedkar is most renowned as the principal architect of the Indian Constitution. As the chairman of the Drafting Committee, he played a pivotal role in shaping the foundational document of independent India, ensuring that it enshrined the principles of liberty, equality, and justice for all.
Furthermore, Dr. Ambedkar was a tireless advocate for the rights of marginalized communities, particularly Dalits and women. His relentless efforts led to the inclusion of provisions in the Constitution aimed at abolishing caste- based discrimination and promoting social equality.
Throughout his life, Dr. Ambedkar fought tirelessly for the empowerment and upliftment of the oppressed. His contributions to the fields of law, economics, and social reform continue to resonate with people across the globe.
As we commemorate Dr. Ambedkar, let us not only honor his memory but also recommit ourselves to the values he stood for. Let us strive to build a society based on equality, justice, and compassion, where every individual has the opportunity to fulfil their potential.
Thank you.
Questions.
i. When was Dr B.R. Ambedkar born?
ii. Here, who is a true champion of social justice and equality?
iii. Dr. B.R. Ambedkar was the Chairman of the Committee which shaped the Indian Constitution. Complete the statement.
iv. What did Dr. BR Ambedkar achieve despite facing discrimination from a young age?
v. What are the three principles enshrined in the Indian Constitution?
vi. Whose rights did Dr. Ambedkar advocate tirelessly?
vii. Dr. Ambedkar’s contributions to the fields of economics, and social reform continue to resonate with people across the globe. Complete the sentence.
viii. Dr. Ambedkar’s relentless efforts led to the inclusion of provisions in the Constitution aimed at abolishing _____________ Choose the correct option.
a) gender-based discrimination
b) caste-based discrimination
c) racial discrimination
d) regional discrimination
ix. Whose empowerment and upliftment did Dr. Ambedkar fight for tirelessly throughout his life?
x. Identify the word from the passage with the similar meaning of “relentless”.
a) careless
b) discrimination
c) disparity
d) tireless
Answers:
i. April 14, 1891
ii. Dr. B.R. Ambedkar
iii. Drafting Committee
iv. Prominence
v. Liberty, equality, justice
vi. Dalits, women
vii. Law, economics, social reform
viii. Option B (caste-based discrimination)
ix. Oppressed
x. Option D (tireless)
10. Honesty is the Best Policy.
Jataka tales seek to spread moral values. See this. People once believed that the spirit of Bodhisattva lived in a holy castor tree. So, they used to offer prayers to the tree and place expensive gifts there. A poor man came there one day, prayed to the tree and wanted to present a piece of bread to the tree. But, feeling ashamed of his poor gift, he turned back without offering it. Suddenly, a man appeared before him. He said he was hungry. He requested for that piece of bread. The poor man happily handed it over to him. Then, he informed that poor man about a pot of gold coins in the ground there. The man was poor but he was honest. He knew how to play the game. He told the King about that treasure. Valuing the poor man’s honesty, the King made him his royal treasurer!
Questions.
i. What do Jataka Tales aim at?
ii. Why did people pray to the castor tree?
iii. Apart from praying, what did the people use to offer to the tree?
iv. What did the poor man want to present to the tree?
v. Pick the word from the passage which means soul.
vi. Did the poor man give the bread to the hungry man or offer it to the tree?
vii. What did the poor man get in return from the hungry man?
viii. The poor man happily took the treasure and became a wealthy person instantly. True or Faise.
ix. Find out the idiom used in the passage to mean act in the correct manner.
x. What is the moral of the story?
Answers:
i. Moral values
ii. Bodhisattva spirit
iii. Expensive gifts
iv. Piece of bread
v. Spirit
vi. Hungry man
vii. Gold coins
viii. False
ix. Play the game
x. Honesty rewarded
11. The Last Lecture: Best Lessons
It was 18 September 2007. Carnegie Mellon University (US) auditorium was echoing with laughter as forty-six-year-old Randy Pausch was delivering an upbeat and humorous lecture. And, then, he knew he would die in a few months! Terminal pancreatic cancer was the villain. He, yet, stressed the need to live fully and have fun in everything. He suddenly dropped and did push- ups to prove his point. Living right is more important than achieving dreams, asserted he. He listed his achieved dreams, quite many, though. He thanked everyone who taught him a lesson or two. And he passed on those valuable lessons to posterity. He wants one to be frugal, not miserly. He advises elders
to give children permission and inspiration to dream. He appeals to teachers to enable learners to achieve dreams. The most significant lesson, however, is the way he took the bull (of cancer or death) by the horns. The Last Lecture’s extended version is the best-selling book with the same title, worth reading again and again!
Questions
i. Who was the speaker of the ‘Last Lecture’?
ii. Where and when was this ‘Last Lecture’ delivered?
iii. The auditorium echoed with loud laughter. Yet, every listener was crying silently. Why?
iv. What was the speaker suffering from?
v. Pick the word from the passage that means using only as much money as is necessary.
vi. According to Randy Pausch, living right is more important than achieving dreams. True or False.
vii. What is the speaker’s advice to elders?
viii. Find the word from the passage to mean all future generations of people.
ix. What is the most significant lesson one can learn from the life of Randy Pausch?
x. Find out the idiom used in the passage to mean faced a difficult or dangerous situation directly and with courage.
Answers:
i. Randy Pausch
ii. Carnegie Mellon, 2007
iii. Terminal illness
iv. Pancreatic cancer
v. Frugal
vi. True
vii. Inspire children
viii. Posterity
ix. Face challenges bravely
x. Took the bull by the horns
12. Here is a conversation between two friends about the importance of voting.
Prasad : Hi Bhadri! Have you registered to vote in the upcoming elections?
Bhadri : Not yet, but I’m planning to. Why do you think it’s so important?
Prasad : Well, voting is one of the most fundamental rights and responsibilities we have as citizens, It’s our chance to have a say in who represents us and the decisions that affect our lives.
Bhadri : I guess you’re right, Prasad. But sometimes I feel like my vote doesn’t really make a difference.
Prasad : Every vote counts! Even if it seems like a small action, collectively, our votes shape the direction of our country and communities. Plus, if everyone thought their vote didn’t matter, democracy wouldn’t work.
Bhadri :That’s a good point, Prasad. I also hear a lot about people fighting for the right to vote in other countries. It’s something we shouldn’t take for granted.
Prasad : Exactly. Many people throughout history have fought and even died for the right to vote. It’s a way to honour their sacrifices and ensure that our voices are heard in the decision-making process.
Bhadri : Alright, you’ve convinced me. I’ll make sure to register and vote in the upcoming elections. Thanks for reminding me of the importance of this civic duty.
Prasad : No problem, Bhadri! I’m glad we had this conversation. Let’s encourage others to do the same and make our voices heard at the ballot box.
Questions:
i. What is the main focus of the conversation?
ii. As per the conversation, who is ignorant about voting?
iii. According to Prasad, what is considered “one of the most fundamental rights and responsibilities we have as citizens”?
iv. “Our votes shape the direction of our country and communities.” Do you agree with the statement? Why?
v. What would happen, if everyone thought their vote didn’t matter?
vi. “It’s something we shouldn’t take for granted. “What does ‘It’ refers to here?
vii. Why have many people throughout history fought and even died?
viii. According to the speakers, how can we ensure that our voices are heard in the decision-making process?
ix. Is voting fundamental right or responsibility? Why do you think so?
x. “Every vote counts!” What does that mean in the context of the conversation?
Answers:
i. Importance of voting
ii. Bhadri
iii. Voting
iv. Yes, impacts decisions
v. Democracy wouldn’t work
vi. Right to vote
vii. For voting rights
viii. By voting
ix. Both, civic duty
x. Each vote matters
13. Goal Setting
Here is a conversation between two friends about their goals.
Shweta : Hey Tania, have you thought about setting any goals for this year?
Tania : Yeah, I’ve been giving it some thought. I really want to focus on personal development and fitness. What about you, Shweta?
Shweta : That sounds great! For me, I’m aiming to improve my time management skills and start saving more money.
Tania : Those are solid goals. How do you plan to go about achieving them?
Shweta : Well, I’ve already started by creating a daily schedule to prioritize my tasks and avoid procrastination. And as for saving money, I’m setting aside a portion of my income each month and tracking my expenses more diligently.
Tania : That’s smart. I think I need to do something similar. Maybe I’ll start by setting specific targets for each month and then reassessing my progress regularly.
Shweta : That’s a good approach. It’s essential to break down your goals into smaller, more manageable steps to stay motivated and accountable.
Tania : Absolutely. And I think it’s essential to stay flexible too. Sometimes unexpected things come up, and it’s okay to adjust your goals accordingly.
Shweta : Definitely. The most important thing is to stay committed and keep moving forward, no matter what challenges we encounter along the way.
Tania : Agreed. Let’s support each other in achieving our goals this year!
Shweta : Absolutely! We’ve got this. Let us have a successful and fulfilling year ahead!
Answer the following questions.
i. What is the theme of the conversation?
ii. Who are the participants in the conversation?
iii. Who asked whom first about setting goals for the particular year?
iv. Who wants to focus on personal development and fitness?
v. Based on the conversation, what is Shweta aiming to improve?
vi. Identify the word from the dialogue which means delaying unnecessarily.
vii. According to Shweta, what is essential to stay motivated and accountable?
viii. In order to achieve her goal, Shweta started creating ____________to prioritize her tasks and avoid procrastination.
ix. Identify the word from the dialogue which means carefully and determinedly.
x. As per the conversation, it is essential to stay________ when unexpected things come up and adjust your goals accordingly.
Answers
i. Setting and achieving goals.
ii. Shweta and Tania.
iii. Shweta asked Tania.
iv. Tania.
v. Time management and saving money.
vi. Procrastination.
vii. Breaking down goals into smaller steps.
viii. A daily schedule.
ix. Diligently.
x. Flexible.
14. Coping with Life Stresses
As a college student, you are facing changes and challenges almost daily. All this can be exciting but it can also result in experiencing a good deal of stress. Stress can be defined as an emotional, intellectual and physical reaction to change or demands. Stress is the way our body prepares itself to react to situations that are new or threatening. Dealing with classmates, keeping up with academic demands, maintaining a social life, and developing new relationships are just some of the ways that can be both exciting and very stressful. Dealing effectively with stress while in college may be as important as doing well or having a lot of friends.
In fact, if you don’t cope with stress well, being successful academically or having a good social life may be impossible. Coping with stress effectively can help ensure a successful and enjoyable college career. Here are a few important steps for reducing stress: (i) Learn a systematic, drug-free way of reducing stress like practicing yoga, meditation etc. (ii) Try to recognize and accept your limits and set realistic and achievable goals. (iii) Learn to manage your time and control any tendency towards procrastination. (iv) Do exercise, eat nutritious food. (v) Be positive and tolerant. (vi) Talk openly with your close friends who can keep your personal secrets. (vii) Learn to have fun. (viii) Develop good habits.
Answer the following questions.
i. What are the common things a college student faces every day?
ii. Define stress.
iii. Mention any two reasons that cause stress.
iv. Stress is the natural way our body prepares itself to react to new situations. True or False.
v. What is important for a student according to the passage?
vi. Practicing yoga, meditation, etc., are drug-free ways of reducing stress. True or False.
vii. What does the passage suggest regarding food and exercise?
viii. Pick the word from the passage that means the act of delaying something.
ix. What happens if you don’t cope with stress well?
x. How does coping with stress help a college student?
Answers
i. Changes and challenges.
ii. Emotional, intellectual, and physical reaction to change or demands.
iii. Academic demands, developing new relationships.
iv. True.
v. Coping with stress effectively.
vi. True.
vii. Exercise and eat nutritious food.
viii. Procrastination.
ix. Success academically or socially may be impossible.
x. Ensures a successful and enjoyable college career.
15. Religious Tolerance
Gandhiji said that religious tolerance can be developed by sincerely following one’s religion. Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan believed that without religion man cannot be enlightened. Qualities like truth, self-control, humility and detachment can be inculcated only through religion. Religion is the foundation of ethical life. It is natural for every person to take pride in his religion and feel it is the best. In a democracy, people of all faiths have the freedom to follow the religion of their choice and observe all the customs and rituals associated with it. However, this does not give one the right to look down on other religions or treat people of other religions with contempt or suspicion as this will lead to social disharmony and unrest.
In India, people of different religions, castes, tribes, sects live together. They should understand the essence of all religions and realize that religion helps to lead a value-based life. The essence of all religion is the same. Religious integrity can be attained by establishing peace, helping the neighbourhood, living ethically, showing love towards all and developing fraternity among all the religions. It is heartening to note that communal riots and religious disturbances have been on the decline during the last few years.
Answer the following questions.
1 According to Gandhiji, how can one’s religious tolerance be developed?
ii. What is the view of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan regarding the enlightenment of man?
iii. Mention any two qualities that can be inculcated through religion.
iv. The foundation of ethical life lies in religion. True or False.
v. What is natural for every person with respect to his religion?
vi. Pick the word from the passage which means a feeling of friendship and mutual support within a group.
vii. What happens if one treats people of other religions with contempt or suspicion?
viii. What does the passage tell us about the essence of all religions?
ix. What has been the status of communal riots and religious disturbances in India during the last few years?
x. What does the passage tell us?
Answers
i. By sincerely following one’s religion.
ii. Without religion, man cannot be enlightened.
iii. Truth and self-control.
iv. True.
v. To take pride in it and feel it is the best.
vi. Fraternity.
vii. It leads to social disharmony and unrest.
viii. The essence of all religions is the same.
ix. They have been on the decline.
x. It emphasizes religious tolerance, integrity, and a value-based life.
16. Ethics in Education
APJ Abdul Kalam says, “If a country is to be free of corruption and a nation of beautiful minds, I strongly feel there are three key societal members who can make a difference. They are the father, the mother and the teacher.” Teachers play a very important role in the society. They provide instruction which equips students with knowledge and skills that enable them to stand on their own feet. They inculcate in students the spirit of enquiry and creative thinking. Above all, they mould the personality and character of students. It is difficult to measure the extent of a teacher’s influence on students. As the philosopher Henry Brooks observed, “A teacher affects eternity, he can never tell where his influence stops.” Ancient scriptures venerate the teacher as a personification of God.
Answer the following questions.
i According to APJ Abdul Kalam, who are the three key societal members?
ii. What kind of role does a teacher play in society?
iii. What does a teacher inculcate in students?
iv. It is easy to measure the extent of a teacher’s influence on students.
True or False.
v. How does a teacher’s instruction help students?
vi. Who moulds the personality and character of students?
vii. A teacher makes students stand on their own feet. True or False.
viii. Find the word from the passage to mean to respect somebody greatly.
ix. What is the observation of Henry Brooks with regard to a teacher?
x. How do ancient scriptures venerate the teacher?
Answers
i. Father, mother, and teacher.
ii. A very important role.
iii. Spirit of enquiry and creative thinking.
iv. False.
v. By equipping them with knowledge and skills.
vi. The teacher.
vii. True.
viii. Venerate.
ix. A teacher affects eternity; influence never stops.
x. As a personification of God.
17. Ethics in Politics
Ancient Greek political thinkers like Plato and Aristotle describe their concept of an ideal state and the means to achieve it. They defined Politics as the branch which deals with the various measures which should be implemented for the establishment of an ideal state. It follows, then, that politicians should be men and women of integrity, vision, incorruptibility and propriety. Mahatma Gandhi suggested that politics should be a branch of ethics. He was himself a man of the highest standards of probity and simplicity and did not ever deviate from his conviction that ‘the end does not justify the means’. His unflinching belief and practice of’satya’ and ‘ahimsa’ in the freedom struggle are a source of awe and inspiration for people even today.
Answer the following questions.
i. Name the ancient philosophers mentioned in the passage.
ii. What did the Greek Political thinkers describe?
iii. What did Gandhi suggest with regard to politics?
iv. According to the ancient Greek philosophers what kind of persons should politicians be?
v. The passage says that politics is the branch which is responsible for establishment of an ideal state. True or False.
vi. What was Mahatma Gandhi’s conviction?
vii. Mahatma Gandhi believed and practised two things throughout his life which inspire people even today. What are they?
viii. According to the ancient Greek political thinkers, politics is aimed at the establishment of ___________.(Complete the sentence)
ix. Pick the word from the passage that means correct or appropriate behaviour.
Answers
i. Plato and Aristotle.
ii. The concept of an ideal state.
iii. Politics should be a branch of ethics.
iv. Politicians should be people of integrity, vision, incorruptibility, and propriety.
v. True.
vi. The end does not justify the means.
vii. Satya (truth) and Ahimsa (non-violence).
viii. An ideal state.
ix. Propriety.
18. Here is a weather report on radio by Weatherman.
Good evening, everyone. I’m here with your daily weather report. Let’s take a look at what’s in store for us today and in the coming days.
Starting with the current conditions, we’re experiencing clear skies and mild temperatures across the region. The temperature is currently at 34 degrees Celsius, with a gentle breeze coming from the West.
As we move into the evening, expect temperatures to gradually drop to around 30 degrees Celsius. It will remain mostly clear with minimal chances of precipitation.
Looking ahead to tomorrow, we can anticipate similar weather conditions with sunny skies and temperatures ranging from 26 to 31 degrees Celsius. It’s shaping up to be another beautiful day, perfect for outdoor activities or simply enjoying the sunshine.
In the extended forecast, we see a slight increase in temperatures towards the end of the week, with a chance of isolated showers in some areas. Overall, though, it looks like we’re in for a relatively stable weather pattern in the days ahead.
Remember to stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun’s rays if you plan to be outdoors for an extended period. And as always, stay tuned to our channel for the latest updates and weather alerts.
That’s all for now. Back to you in the studio.
Answer the following questions.
i. Who is delivering the weather report?
ii. What is the current temperature as per the weather report?
iii. As per the weather report, what is the range of temperature forecast for tomorrow?
iv. The extended forecast prediets similar weather conditions. True or False.
v. Which direction is the breeze coming from?
vi. What are the current weather conditions? Choose from the options.
a) Cloudy with heavy rain
b) Clear skies with mild temperatures
c) Overcast with strong winds
d) Foggy with low visibility
vii. In the extended forecast, there is a chance __________ showers in of some areas towards the end of the week. Fill in the blank.
viii. Identify the word from the passage which means forecast.
a) pattern
b) anticipate
c) figure
d) looking
ix. As per the weather report, “tomorrow” will be_________
Choose the correct option.
a) shaping up to be not a beautiful day
b) remain mostly clear with maximum chances of precipitation
c) perfect for outdoor activities
d) for enjoying the precipitation
x. “And as always, stay tuned to our channel for the latest updates and weather alerts.” What does the statement mean?
Answers
i. The weather reporter.
ii. 34 degrees Celsius.
iii. 26 to 31 degrees Celsius.
iv. False.
v. From the West.
vi. b) Clear skies with mild temperatures.
vii. of isolated.
viii. b) anticipate.
ix. c) perfect for outdoor activities.
x. It means to keep watching the channel for updated weather information and alerts.
19. Here is a conversation between Vinod and Bhasker. Vinod explains Bhasker how to create a WhatsApp group.
Vinod : Hey Bhasker, I noticed you’re new to WhatsApp. Do you know how to create groups?
Bhasker: No, not really. I’m still figuring things out. Can you show me how?
Vinod : Sure! It’s pretty simple. First, open WhatsApp and go to the Chats tab. Then, tap on the three dots in the top right corner and select “New group.”
Bhasker : Okay, got it. What’s next?
Vinod : Next, you’ll need to select the contacts you want to add to the group. You can choose from your contacts list or search for specific names.
Bhasker : And what about the group name and icon?
Vinod : Ah, good point. After selecting the contacts, you’ll be prompted to enter a group subject and choose an icon for the group. The group subject is like a title for the group, so make sure it’s descriptive and relevant.
Bhasker : Got it. Anything else I should know?
Vinod : Once you’ve set the group subject and icon, just tap on the green checkmark to create the group. And that’s it! You’ve successfully created a WhatsApp group.
Bhasker : Thanks, Vinod! That was really helpful. I’ll give it a try now.
Vinod : No problem, Bhasker. If you have any other questions about WhatsApp or anything else, feel free to ask.
Answer the following questions.
i. What is the conversation about?
ii. Bhasker said, “I’m still figuring things out.” What does he mean by the expression?
iii. As per the conversation, where should we go after opening WhatsApp?
iv. Where do you find the three dots?
v. After selecting “New group”, we need____________ (Choose the
a) to search for specific names.
b) to select the contacts we want to add to the group.
c) to choose from our contacts list.
d) enter a group subject.
vi. The group subject is like__________ for the group.” based on the conversation.) (Fill in the blank)
vii. The group subject is descriptive in nature. True or False.
viii. In the process of creating the group, after having set the group subject and icon, we need to just tap on the __________ checkmark to create the group. (Fill in the blank with the correct word.)
ix. Do you think that the speaker is able to explain the process in question properly? Why do you think so?
x. Is the conversation set in professional or social context? What aspects of the conversation make you think so?
Answers
i. How to create WhatsApp group.
ii. Still learning WhatsApp.
iii. Chats tab.
iv. Top right corner.
v. Select contacts to add.
vi. Title.
vii. True.
viii. Green.
ix. Yes, clear step-by-step explanation.
x. Social context, informal conversation.
20. Mobile Phones: Ethics and Etiquette
The first mobile phone in India was launched by Motorola in 1995. The rest, as they say, is history. Today the number of landlines is decreasing drastically while the number of mobile phones is increasing exponentially. Mobile phones are a craze, especially among teens, and are viewed as status symbols which need to be upgraded every few months. Here are a few important guidelines for the use of mobile phones by teens.
• Teenagers should remember that the primary purpose of a mobile phone is to stay in touch with the family. They should not succumb to peer- pressure or make comparisons with those who have fancy gadgets. They should not force parents to buy them expensive phones.
• Mobile phones should not be used in class. They should either be switched off or kept in silent mode.
It is impolite and discourteous to talk loudly over the phone in public places such as movie halls, restaurants, malls and trains.
• Talking on the phone while driving, even on Blue Tooth, is dangerous and also illegal in most countries. Texting while driving is doubly so.
• The use of the phone should be avoided while the battery is being charged as there have been instances of spurious batteries exploding
It is advisable to speak not more than half an hour on the phone every day.
• It is rude to look into the messages of others or even their list of contacts without their permission.
Answer the following questions.
i When was the first mobile phone launched in India?
ii. Which company launched the first mobile phone in India?
iii. Today the number of landlines is increasing on par with mobile phones. True or False.
iv. According to the speaker, what is the primary purpose of a mobile phone?
v. Where shouldn’t we talk loudly over the phone?
vi. What ethic should students follow in class room with regard to mobile phone usage?
vii. We should not use the phone while the battery is being charged. Why?
viii. What is considered rude in the passage?
ix. The passage advises teenagers not to succumb to peer-pressure with regard to something. What is it?
x. Pick the word from the passage that means not genuine, fake.
Answers
i. 1995.
ii. Motorola.
iii. False.
iv. To stay in touch with family.
v. Public places like movie halls, malls.
vi. Switch off or keep it silent.
vii. Risk of battery explosion.
viii. Looking into others’ messages or contacts.
ix. Fancy gadgets.
x. Spurious.
21. Principal’s talk on the College Day
Good morning everyone, and happy College Day! As we gather here today to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the establishment of our college, I am thrilled to share with you some of the remarkable achievements of our college over the past year.
First and foremost, I am proud to announce that our college has achieved a record-breaking pass percentage in the university examinations. Our students have demonstrated exceptional academic prowess, with many securing top ranks in their respective fields. For example, our computer science department produced a gold medalist in the university examinations, showcasing the calibre of talent nurtured within our walls.
But our achievements extend beyond academics. Our college has also excelled in extracurricular activities and sports. This year, our basketball team clinched the inter-college championship for the fifth consecutive year, showcasing their dedication, teamwork, and sportsmanship. Additionally, our music club won first place in the state-level music competition, highlighting the diverse talents of our students beyond the classroom.
Furthermore, our college has been at the forefront of innovation and research. Our engineering students developed a ground-breaking prototype for a solar-powered irrigation system, which received accolades at the national level and holds great promise for addressing agricultural challenges in our region. In addition to academic and extracurricular achievements, our college has remained committed to community service and social responsibility. Our NSS volunteers organized numerous blood donation camps, health awareness drives, and environmental clean-up initiatives, making a tangible difference in the lives of those in need.
As we celebrate our College Day today, let us not only bask in the glory of our past achievements but also look forward to the future with optimism and determination. Together, let us continue to strive for excellence in all endeavours and contribute to the progress and development of our society and nation.
In conclusion, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to all students, faculty, and staff for their hard work, dedication, and contributions to our college’s success. Let us continue to soar to greater heights and make our college proud.
Thank you, and Jai Hind!
Answer the following questions.
i. Who delivered the speech?
ii. What is being commemorated today?
iii. What is the record-breaking achievement mentioned in the speech?
iv. Which department produced a gold medalist?
v. Basketball team excelled in__________
vi. Music club won first place in__________
vii. The solar-powered irrigation system prototype received recognition only at the local level. True or False.
viii. Mention any two events organised by the college NSS volunteers.
ix. Identify the word from the speech which is opposite to “curricular”,
x. Choose the word which is synonym of celebrate as used in the speech?
a) mourn
b) rejoice
c) despair
d) lament
Answers
i. The speaker (college representative or principal).
ii. The 25th anniversary of the college’s establishment.
iii. A record-breaking pass percentage in university examinations.
iv. Computer science department.
v. Inter-college championship.
vi. State-level music competition.
vii. False.
viii. Blood donation camps, health awareness drives.
ix. Extracurricular.
x. b) Rejoice.
22. Gardening is fun
Now I would like to share with you my favourite hobby. Every spring, my dad and I plant a garden in the backyard. Gardening is fun because I can watch the plants grow throughout the spring and summer. I usually plant two kinds of seeds; cucumbers and tomatoes. First, I set up a fence around my garden to keep out the rabbits and other animals. I don’t want them to eat my plants!
Next, I dig small holes for the seeds. I make sure to keep plenty of space between the seeds so they have room to grow. Then, I water my plants every day. Sometimes it is hard to remember to water my garden, but I try my best. It takes a few weeks for the plants to sprout. I love seeing the green stems come out from the dirt! A few weeks after that, small tomatoes and cucumbers start growing. I love eating the produce grown in my own garden by me!
Answer the following questions.
i. What is the hobby of the speaker?
ii. In which season does the speaker plant a garden?
iii. Who accompanies the speaker in his gardening?
iv. The speaker usually plants two kinds of seeds. What are they?
v. Why does the speaker make sure to keep plenty of space between the seeds?
vi. What does the speaker set up in order to keep out the rabbits and other animals?
vii. Sometimes it is hard for the speaker to remember something. What is it?
viii. According to the speaker, how much time does it take for the plants to sprout?
ix. What does the speaker love seeing coming from the dirt?
x. Why does the speaker consider gardening fun?
Answers
i. Gardening.
ii. Spring.
iii. His dad.
iv. Cucumbers and tomatoes.
v. To give them room to grow.
vi. A fence.
vii. To water the garden.
viii. A few weeks.
ix. Green stems.
x. Because he can watch the plants grow.
23. Shopping in a Big Mall
Yesterday, I went to the big mall across town. It is brand new and really big so I really wanted to try it out. I used to go to a different mall, but now I want to try this one. I went with my mom and we had a hard time finding a parking spot because it was so crowded! It was probably crowded because everyone else wanted to see the new mall too. Our first stop was a new clothing store. I really liked the store because it had so many cute shirts, pants, and shoes. I bought a sparkly pink shirt and a pair of jeans.
After that, we went to a jewellery store to get a gift for my grandma. I picked out a gold watch for her that I know she will love. By this point, we were getting hungry so we stopped at the food court. I got a chicken sandwich with French fries. It was delicious. After lunch, we stopped at a toy store in the mall. My mom got a toy train for my little brother and I picked out a board game. I am so excited to play it later with my family! My mom and I were getting tired so we decided to head home. It was a fun day at the mall!
Answer the following questions.
i Where did the speaker go for shopping?
ii. Who accompanied the speaker on her shopping trip?
iii. Why did they have a hard time at the parking spot?
iv. What was their first stop in the shopping mall?
v. Why did the speaker like the clothing store?
vi. What did the speaker buy in the clothing store?
vii. After clothing store, where did the speaker go to in the shopping mall?
viii. What did the speaker buy in the jewellery store?
ix. Whom did the speaker buy a gold watch?
x. What was the last store the speaker and her mother visited in the shopping mall?
Answers
i. The big new mall across town.
ii. Her mom.
iii. Because it was crowded.
iv. A clothing store.
v. It had many cute items.
vi. A sparkly pink shirt and jeans.
vii. A jewellery store.
viii. A gold watch.
ix. Her grandma.
x. A toy store.
24. How to create an Instagram account?
Hey there! So, you’re thinking about joining Instagram? That’s awesome! Here’s a quick guide on how to get started:
First things first, download the Instagram app from the App Store (if you’re using an iPhone) or Google Play Store (if you’re on Android). It’s the colourful camera icon.
Once you’ve downloaded the app, open it up and tap on “Sign Up.” You’ll need to enter your email address or phone number to get started.
Next, you’ll need to create a username and password for your account. Try to pick a username that’s unique and reflects you in some way. Remember, you can always change it later if you want to.
After you’ve created your account, you’ll be asked to fill in some basic information, like your name and profile picture. You can upload a photo from your phone or take one on the spot.
Once your profile is set up, you can start finding friends to follow! Instagram will suggest some accounts for you to follow based on your interests, or you can search for specific people using the search bar.
Now comes the fun part-posting! Tap on the “+” icon at the bottom of the screen to upload a photo or video from your phone. You can add filters, captions, and even tag your friends before sharing it with the world.
Don’t forget to explore the app and check out what other people are posting! You can like, comment, and share posts to interact with your friends and discover new content.
That’s it! You’re officially an Instagrammer. Have fun exploring the app and sharing your own photos and videos with the world.
Answer the following questions.
i. What is the first step to create an Instagram account?
ii. If you have a mobile phone running on Android, where can you download the Instagram app?
iii. Why do you need to change your username once you’ve created your Instagram account?
iv. Instagram will suggest some accounts for you to follow based on your interests. True or False.
v. After creating your account, what type of basic information is asked to be filled in?
vi. What is the main purpose of Instagram?
vii. What should you do after downloading the Instagram app?
a) Create a profile
b) Search for friends
c) Post a photo
d) Like and comment on posts
viii. What can you do with the “+” icon at the bottom of the screen?
a) Delete your account
b) Share a post
c) Message friends
d) Edit your profile
ix. What is a synonym for “fun”?
a) Boring
b) Enjoyment
c) Serious
d) Miserable
x. How does the Instagram app look like?
Answers
i. Download the Instagram app.
ii. Google Play Store.
iii. You don’t need to; it’s optional.
iv. True.
v. Name and profile picture.
vi. Sharing photos and videos.
vii. a) Create a profile.
viii. b) Share a post.
ix. b) Enjoyment.
x. Colorful camera icon.
25. The Future of Transportation
Imagine a world where cars drive themselves and airplanes run on electricity. This is not just science fiction; it’s the future of transportation. With advancements in technology, our modes of getting from place to place are evolving rapidly. Self-driving cars are becoming more common on our roads. These vehicles use sensors and cameras to navigate and avoid obstacles, making roads safer and reducing accidents caused by human error. In the sky, electric airplanes are taking off. These aircraft are powered by batteries, producing zero emissions and reducing our carbon footprint. They are quieter and more efficient than traditional planes, offering a greener way to travel long distances. But it’s not just land and air transportation that’s changing. Underwater exploration is also seeing innovations with autonomous submarines. These underwater robots can dive deep into the ocean, collecting data and exploring areas too dangerous for humans. As technology continues to advance, the possibilities for transportation are endless. Who knows what exciting developments await us in the years to come?
Answer the following questions.
i. What is evolving rapidly?
ii. How are self-driving cars controlled?
iii. What reduces accidents?
iv. What powers the electric airplanes?
v. What are the advantages of electric airplanes?
vi. Autonomous submarines collect data from the deep oceans. True or
False.
vii. Self-driving cars are becoming more common. True or False.
viii. As technology advances, the possibilities for transportation are_____________
ix. Autonomous submarines are referred to as underwater robots. True or False.
x. What do self-driving cars use to navigate and avoid obstacles?
Answers
i. Transportation.
ii. Sensors and cameras.
iii. Self-driving cars.
iv. Batteries.
v. Zero emissions, quieter, and more efficient.
vi. True.
vii. True.
viii. Endless.
ix. True.
x. Sensors and cameras.
26. The Power of a Smile
In a bustling city, amidst the noise and rush, there lived a young man named Maruthi. Every day, Maruthi walked the same path to work, lost in his thoughts, hardly noticing the people around him. Until one day, he encountered a homeless man sitting on the sidewalk, his eyes filled with sadness. Maruthi passed by, but something tugged at his heart. The next day, he made a decision. As he walked past the homeless man again, instead of ignoring him, Maruthi stopped, looked him in the eyes, and offered a warm smile. To Maruthi’s surprise, the man’s face lit up with gratitude. That simple gesture of kindness seemed to brighten his entire day. From that moment on, Maruthi made it a habit to smile at everyone he passed on his way to work. He noticed something remarkable happening. People responded to his smile. Some smiled hack. others nodded in acknowledgment, and a few even struck up conversations.
Maruthi realized the power of a smile to connect, to uplift, and to spread joy. Over time, the once bustling city felt a little warmer, a little friendlier, all because one person chose to share a simple smile. And Maruthi learned that sometimes, the smallest acts of kindness can make the biggest difference in someone’s day.
Answer the following questions.
i. Who is the protagonist here?
ii. Where does the protagonist of the passage live?
Iii What does Maruthi encounter on his way to work?
iv. How does Maruthi initially react to the homeless man?
v. What does Maruthi offer the homeless man?
vi. Maruthi learns the power of a smile to connect with others. True or False.
vii. What does Maruthi start doing regularly on his way to work?
viii. How do people respond to Maruthi’s smile?
ix. What does Maruthi realize about his smile?
x. Maruthi encounters a homeless man on his way to work. True or False.
Answers
i. Maruthi.
ii. In a bustling city.
iii. A homeless man.
iv. He initially ignores him.
v. A warm smile.
vi. True.
vii. Smiling at everyone he passes.
viii. Some smile back, nod, or start conversations.
ix. It can connect, uplift, and spread joy.
x. True.
27. Road Rage
The issue of road rage requires serious attention. Day by day, it is becoming a great concern. Call it the negligence of the government or the rashness of the drivers, the underlying fact is that at the end of the day, the common man is the one who suffers the most. The commoner driving a two- wheeler who is hit by a speeding SUV, even though the former was following
the traffic rules, has nowhere to go in order to seek redressal for his grievances or his injury. Part of the problem lies with the attitude and mentality of the driver behind the steering wheel. The car is a personal vehicle and one possesses the freedom to drive it independently and at one’s own will. But one must understand that the road on which one drives is open to the public. This blurring of the dichotomy between the public and the private leads to reckless behaviour on the roads. Respect for the elderly and pedestrians, so common in countries abroad, is a thing of rarity to be found in our land. A little consideration to road rules and adoption of simple safety measures such as fastening of the seat belt can go a long way in reducing this menace.
Answer the following questions.
i. According to the passage, which issue requires serious attention?
ii. Why does the common man suffer grievously in instances of road rage?
iii. What should the driver understand?
iv. We will be safe if we follow traffic rules even though others do not follow them. True or False.
v. Foreigners give respect to elders and pedestrians. True or False.
vi. What is a thing of rarity to be found in our land?
vii. Find the word in the passage which means a person who travels on foot.
viii. Name any two safety measures mentioned in the passage that help reduce the menace of road rage.
ix. Find the word from the passage that means something that is a source of danger.
x. According to the passage what leads to reckless behaviour of drivers on roads?
Answers
i. Road rage.
ii. Due to reckless drivers despite following rules.
iii. Roads are open to the public.
iv. False.
v. True.
vi. Respect for the elderly and pedestrians.
vii. Pedestrian.
viii. Following road rules, fastening seat belts.
ix. Menace.
x. Blurring of public and private boundaries.
28. The Friendly Farm Animals
In a cozy barn nestled in the countryside, there lived a group of friendly farm animals. There was Danny the Duck, who was always in a flap about something, Molly the Cow, known for her gentle nature and big heart, Charlie the Chicken, who was as busy as a bee; and Sammy the Sheep, whose woolly coat was as soft as a cloud. One sunny morning, the animals gathered in the barnyard to discuss their plans for the day. Danny suggested they play a game of hide and seek, but Molly had a bee in her bonnet about exploring the nearby meadow. Charlie, being as stubborn as a mule, insisted on finishing his chores first, while Sammy was happy as a clam to go along with whatever the others decided.
After some friendly debate, they compromised and decided to take turns doing each activity. First, they played hide and seek, with Danny quacking with laughter as he chased after his friends. Then, they wandered through the meadow, marveling at the beauty of nature around them. Finally, they returned to the barn to help Charlie finish his chores, working together like a well- oiled machine. As the sun began to set, the tired but happy animals gathered in the barn to rest. They realized that by working together and being flexible, they had made the most of their day and created memories that would last a lifetime. With a contented sigh, they settled in for the night, looking forward to another day of adventures on the farm.
Answer the following questions.
i. Sammy the Sheep’s coat was as soft as a_____
ii. What did Molly the Cow want to do in the morning?
iii. What does “in a flap” mean?
a) Calm and relaxed
b) Annoyed or upset
c) Ready to fly
d) Prepared for action
iv. What does “as busy as a bee” mean?
a) Very relaxed
b) Hardworking and active
c) Slow and lazy
d) Carefree
v. What does the idiom have a bee in one’s bonnet mean?
vi. The idiom like a well-oiled machine means working smoothly and efficiently. True or False.
vii. Danny the Duck was always in a flap about________
viii. The tired but happy animals gathered in the barn to rest as the sun began to_________
ix. What does the idiom quacking with laughter mean?
x. What does the phrase settled in for the night mean?
a) Preparing for a journey
b) Going to sleep
c) Starting work
Answers
i. Cloud.
ii. Explore the nearby meadow.
iii. b) Annoyed or upset.
iv. b) Hardworking and active.
v. To be preoccupied or obsessed with something.
vi. True.
vii. Something.
viii. Set.
ix. Laughing loudly and joyfully.
x. b) Going to sleep.
29. The Adventure of Timmy Turtle
Once upon a time, in a serene pond nestled in the heart of the forest, lived a small turtle named Timmy. Timmy was curious as a cat and always eager for adventure. One sunny morning, he decided to explore beyond the pond’s edge, despite his mother’s warnings to stay close to home. As Timmy ventured into the forest, he encountered a friendly rabbit named Rosie, who was hopping mad about losing her way. Timmy offered to help, and together they set off on an adventure through the woods. Along the way, they faced many obstacles, but Timmy kept his cool as a cucumber and used his wits to overcome each challenge. When they encountered a raging river, Timmy remembered the saying “slow and steady wins the race” and carefully crossed to the other side, with Rosie following closely behind. As they continued their journey, they stumbled upon a thicket of thorns blocking their path. Timmy didn’t bat an eye and suggested they “take the bull by the horns” and find a way through. With teamwork and determination, they pushed through the thorns and emerged unscathed on the other side. Finally, as the sun began to set, Timmy and Rosie reached the edge of the forest and bid each other farewell. Timmy returned home, his heart full of gratitude for the adventure and the newfound friendship he had discovered along the way. And from that day on, Timmy knew that with a little courage and a lot of determination, there was no adventure too great for him to conquer.
Answer the following questions.
i. What does the idiom curious as a cat mean?
ii. What does the phrase hopping mad mean?
iii. What does the phrase keep one’s cool (as a cucumber) mean?
a) Stay calm under pressure.
b) Become excited easily.
c) Get angry quickly.
d) Be careless.
iv. What does the expression slow and steady wins the race mean?
a) Acting hastily is better.
b) Being slow is never successful.
c) Consistency and patience lead to success.
d) Being quick is always better.
v. The idiom take the bull by the horns means facing a challenge directly. True or False.
vi. Timmy was as curious_______
vii. Timmy and Rosie encountered a dragon on their adventure. True or False.
viii. What is a synonym for forest as used in the audio?
a) Meadow
b) Jungle
c) Desert
d) Beach
ix. Who encountered Timmy Turtle in the forest?
x. Where did Timmy Turtle and Rosie reach at the end of their adventure?
Answers
i. Being very inquisitive.
ii. Extremely upset or angry.
iii. a) Stay calm under pressure.
iv. c) Consistency and patience lead to success.
v. True.
vi. As a cat.
vii. False.
viii. b) Jungle.
ix. Rosie the rabbit.
x. The edge of the forest.
30. Better late than never!
Once upon a time, there was a little girl named Emily who loved to play outside. One sunny morning, Emily decided to explore the nearby forest. As she walked, she found a shiny penny on the ground. “A penny for your thoughts,” said her mother, who had followed her. Emily smiled and picked up the penny, feeling like she had struck gold. Suddenly, a squirrel darted across her path. Emily stopped in her tracks. “Slow and steady wins the race,” she reminded herself, remembering the story of the tortoise and the hare. She walked slowly and quietly, not wanting to scare the animals.
As she ventured deeper into the forest, Emily came across a beautiful flower patch. She picked a few flowers and put them in her pocket, happy as a clam. Just then, she heard a rustling noise. It was her friend, Jack, who had come to join her. “Better late than never!” Emily exclaimed. The two friends spent the rest of the morning exploring together, finding more treasures and enjoying each other’s company. By the time they headed home, they were tired but very happy. “Time flies when you’re having fun,” said Jack, and Emily agreed with a big smile.
Answer the following questions.
i What did Emily find on the ground in the forest?
ii. Who joined Emily in the forest?
iii. Emily felt like she had____when she found the penny.
iv. Jack said, “ ________when you’re having fun.”
v. Emily’s mother said, “A penny for your__________”
a) troubles
b) thoughts
c) dreams
vi. Emily reminded herself, “Slow and steady________”
a) wins the race
b) finds the treasure
c) reaches the goal
vii. What did Emily pick and put in her pocket?
viii. From whom did Emily hear a rustling noise in the forest?
ix. Jack joined Emily at the beginning of her adventure. True or False.
x. Emily was scared when she saw the squirrel. True or False.
Answers
i. A shiny penny.
ii. Her friend, Jack.
iii. Struck gold.
iv. Time flies.
v. b) thoughts.
vi. a) wins the race.
vii. Flowers.
viii. Jack.
ix. False.
x. False.
31. A Day at the Beach (Extra- Outside the handbook)
Last weekend, Sarah and her family went to the beach for a fun day in the sun. The weather was perfect, with a light breeze and clear skies. As soon as they arrived, Sarah and her brother, Ben, ran toward the water with excitement. They spent hours building sandcastles and collecting seashells along the shore.
After a while, Sarah decided to take a break and lie down on her beach towel, enjoying the warmth of the sun. Ben, on the other hand, couldn’t resist the waves and continued to splash around in the water. Their parents set up a picnic nearby, and the family enjoyed sandwiches, fruits, and cold drinks.
As the day went on, the tide started to rise, and the waves grew bigger. Sarah and Ben joined their parents to pack up their things and head home. Tired but happy, Sarah looked back at the ocean, already excited for their next beach adventure.
Answer the following questions.
i. Where did Sarah’s family go?
ii. What did Sarah and Ben build?
iii. Who ran toward the water?
iv. What did the family eat?
v. How was the weather?
vi. What did Sarah collect?
vii. Who set up the picnic?
viii. What did Ben do in the water?
ix. When did the tide rise?
x. How did Sarah feel at the end?
Answers
i. The beach.
ii. Sandcastles.
iii. Sarah and Ben.
iv. Sandwiches and fruits.
v. Perfect, clear skies.
vi. Seashells.
vii. Their parents.
viii. Splashed around.
ix. Later in the day.
x. Tired but happy.
32. A School Science Fair (Extra- Outside the handbook)
Last month, the annual school science fair took place, and students were excited to showcase their projects. Each class was tasked with presenting experiments on different scientific topics. Emily and her partner, Tom, worked on a volcano eruption project. They used baking soda, vinegar, and red food coloring to simulate a volcanic explosion.
On the day of the fair, the gym was filled with colorful posters, models, and eager students explaining their experiments. Emily and Tom’s volcano was a hit, as everyone loved watching the “lava” bubble over the top. Other projects included solar system models, plant growth experiments, and magnetism demonstrations.
The principal walked around, asking questions and encouraging students. At the end of the day, Emily and Tom won second place for their creativity, while the solar system project took first. It was a fun and educational event that left everyone looking forward to next year’s fair.
Answer the following questions.
i. What event took place last month?
ii. What project did Emily and Tom work on?
iii. What materials were used for the volcano project?
iv. Where was the science fair held?
v. What did students present at the fair?
vi. What was a popular part of Emily and Tom’s project?
vii. Who asked questions during the event?
viii. What won first place at the fair?
ix. What was the principal’s role during the fair?
x. How did students feel about the event?
Answers
i. The school science fair.
ii. A volcano eruption project.
iii. Baking soda, vinegar, red food coloring.
iv. In the gym.
v. Experiments and models.
vi. The bubbling lava.
vii. The principal.
viii. The solar system project.
ix. Asking questions and encouraging students.
x. Excited and happy.
33. College Freshers’ Orientation Day (Extra- Outside the handbook)
Last week, the college organized a Freshers’ Orientation Day to welcome the new batch of students. The event took place in the auditorium, where seniors and faculty members warmly greeted the newcomers. The program began with an introduction to the college’s history, rules, and facilities, followed by a tour of the campus.
Seniors shared their experiences, offering valuable advice on how to manage studies and extracurricular activities. There were also fun icebreaker games that helped the freshers get to know one another. The college clubs set up booths to encourage students to join various activities like debate, sports, and drama.
After the formal part of the event, everyone gathered in the courtyard for refreshments and informal chats. By the end of the day, the new students felt more comfortable and excited about starting their college journey.
Answer the following questions.
i. What event was organized for new students?
ii. Where did the event take place?
iii. Who greeted the newcomers?
iv. What was introduced at the beginning of the program?
v. What advice did seniors offer?
vi. What activities helped freshers get to know one another?
vii. What did the college clubs do during the event?
viii. Where did everyone gather after the formal event?
ix. What was the purpose of the icebreaker games?
x. How did the new students feel at the end?
Answers
i. Freshers’ Orientation Day.
ii. In the auditorium.
iii. Seniors and faculty members.
iv. College’s history, rules, and facilities.
v. How to manage studies and extracurriculars.
vi. Icebreaker games.
vii. Set up booths for activities.
viii. In the courtyard.
ix. To help freshers meet each other.
x. Comfortable and excited.