1

BHARATH POSTGRADUATE COLLEGE IN COLLABORATION WITH

KARNATAKA STATE OPEN UNIVERSITY

PROGRAME NAME: BCA

COURSE NAME: COMMUNICATION SKILLS IN ENGLISH

CODE: BCA-02

I SEMESTER

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Course writer: G.S.Lakshmi Rao M.A., M.Phil

Senior Lecturer

T.S.Srinivasan Centre for Polytechnic and Advanced Training

Chennai – 95

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SEMESTER : I

Subject Code : BCA -02

Subject Title : Communication English

Structure of the Course Content

BLOCK 1 Grammar (Non-Textual)

Unit 1: Functional Analysis

Unit 2: Voice and parts of speech

Unit 3: Direct and indirect speech

Unit 4: Preposition

BLOCK 2 Grammars

Unit 1: One word substitute

Unit 2: Articles and question tags

Unit 3: Prefixes and suffixes

Unit 4: Tenses

BLOCK 3 Compositions

Unit 1: Comprehension

Unit 2: Simple passage

Unit 3: Moral story

Unit 4: Science and technology

BLOCK 4 Letter and dialogue Writing

Unit 1: Letter writing - personal

Unit 2: Letter writing - official

Unit 3: Dialogue writing

Unit 4: Hints development

BLOCK 5 Proses

Unit 1: An Astrloger's day – R.K. Narayanan

Unit 2: The sun, the planets and the stars – C.Jones

Unit 3: The continuing spell of Ramanujam

Unit 4: On saying 'please' – A.G.Gardiner

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Books: 1. Orient Longman, Anna Salai, Chennai-600002.

2. The Advanced Learners Dictionary of Current English by A.S.Hornby, Oxford

University Press. 1973

3. High School English Grammar and Composition by Wren & Martin, S.Chand & Co

Ltd., 2005

4. Vocabulary in Practice - Part 1 to 4 by Glennis Pye, Cambridge University Press,

5. Learn Correct English by Shiv K. Kumar & Hemalatha Nagarajan, Pearson

Longman, 2005

6. Essential English Grammar by Raymond Murphy, Cambridge University Press,

7. Common Errors in English by M.Thomas, Lotus Press, New Delhi, 2006

8. Basic English Usage by Michael Swan, ELBS/OUP, 1989

9. Communication Skills for Engineers by Mishra, Ist Edition, Pearson Longman

10. Basic English Dictionary by Longman Longman Ist Edition, Pearson Longman

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INDEX

UNIT(S) CONTENT PAGE

NO.

BLOCK 1 - Grammar ( Non-Textual ) 1

1 Functional Analysis 2

2.1.Voice

7

2 2.2.Parts Of Speech 9

3 Direct & Indirect Speech 12

4 Prepositions 16

BLOCK 2 - Grammar 17

1 One word Substitution 18

2.

2.1. Articles 22

2.2. Question Tags 25

3. Préfixes & Suffixes 28

4. Tenses 33

BLOCK 3 - Composition 39

1. Compréhension 40

2. Simple Passages 44

3. Moral Stories 47

4. Science & Technology 53

BLOCK 4 - Letter & Dialogue Writing 57

1 Letter Writing – Personal 58

2. Letter Writing – Official 62

3. Dialogue Writing 70

4. Hints Development 74

BLOCK 5 - Prose 77

1 An Astrologer‘s Day by R.K.Narayan 78

2. The Sun, The Planets And The Stars by C.Jones 85

3. The Continuing Spell Of Ramanujan – An Extract 90

4. On Saying ‗Please‘ by A.G.Gardiner 96

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UNIT: 1

FUNCTIONAL ANALYSES

Functional Analyses details the functions of the different words or parts of the

sentence in a complete sentence. It is otherwise called Sentence Patterns.

Sentences are basically divided into five patterns.

They go as follows:

1. SV ( Subject + Verb )

2. SVO ( Subject + Verb + Object )

3. SVIODO ( Subject + Verb + Indirect Object + Direct Object )

4. SVC ( Subject + Verb + Complement )

5. SVOC (Subject + Verb + Object + Complement )

Special Note: Adjunct could be added to all these five patterns.

Subject:

Subject is something about what or whom we are speaking.

Read the examples:

1. Alexander was a powerful emperor.

About whom are we talking?

We are talking about 'Alexander'.

Alexander is the 'Subject'.

2. The cat is under the table.

We are talking about 'the cat'.

'The cat' is the 'Subject'.

3. I spoke politely.

We are talking about 'I'.

'I' is the 'Subject'.

Verb

Verb is a doing word.

Verbs are underlined.

1. I met him yesterday.

2. People remember good deeds of others.

3. Sita is a clever girl.

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Object

Objects are nouns. When these objects appear before Verbs, they are called Nouns. If

they appear after Verbs, they are called Objects.

People are considered to be Indirect Objects.

Other nouns are considered to be Direct Objects.

Examples:

Observe carefully. Direct Objects are underlined. Indirect Objects appear in bold letters.

1. I feed the dog.

2. She gave the poor the food.

3. They gave them an advice.

Complement

Complement is a word or phrase that gives a complete meaning to the sentence.

Examples

1. Ravi is an engineer.

2. Sindhu remained a spinster.

3. Rajiv Gandhi was a Chief Minister.

Adjunct

An Adjunct gives an additional information.

Examples:

1. Nadhiya had been to Delhi in 1998.

2. She stood Class First three times.

3. We saw the film last night.

1. SV pattern:

1. Parrots / can speak.

S / V

2. The baby / laughed.

S / V

3. Dogs / guard.

S / V

4. A telephone / rings.

S / V

5. We / will be remembered.

S / V

2. SVO pattern:

1. The teacher / gave / notes.

S / V / O

2. I / love / Narayan.

S / V / O

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3. We / got / promotion.

S / V / O

4. They / sold / mangoes.

S / V / O

5. We / saw / the film.

S / V / O

3. SVIODO pattern:

1. The paper / gave / us / the news.

S / V / IO / DO

2. Fathima / taught / them / English.

S / V / IO / DO

3. They / supplied / him / medicine.

S / V / IO / DO

4. Haritha / told / the children / a story.

S / V / IO / DO

5. The college / presented / him / a reward.

S / V / IO / DO

4. SVC pattern:

1. Venkat / was / a farmer.

S / V / C

2. The novel / is / interesting.

S / V / C

3. She / met / with an accident.

S / V / C

4. My cousin / is / a film Director.

S / V / C

5. The parcel / must be / attractive.

S / V / C

5. SVOC pattern:

1. We / called / the dog / Tiger.

S / V / O / C

2. The gang / made / him / a thief.

S / V / O / C

3. The magician / turned / the egg / a hen.

S / V / O / C

4. We / appointed / her / the Vice Captain.

S / V / O / C

5. The police / told / them / lies.

S / V / O / C

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Adjunct can appear in any pattern.

1. SVA

My friend / replied / yesterday.

S / V / A

2. SVOA

I / called up / my friend / yesterday.

S / V / O / A

3. SVIODOA

I / presented / my friend / a watch / for his birthday.

S / V / IO / DO / A

4. SVCA

They / were / leaders / with high ideals.

S / V / C / A

5. ASVOC

Last year / he / elected / her / President.

A / S / V / O / A

Try out a few sentences now:

Analyze the Sentence Pattern in the following:

1. Sakthi is a nice girl.

2. The government issued everybody the voter ID,

3. She has completed the exam an hour ago.

4. Vishnu is kind by nature.

5. Ganga is an interesting girl.

6. Library is full of books.

7. Rajiv Gandhi was an able administrator.

8. She rendered service to the society.

9. In 2005, there was Tsunami in Chennai.

10. The thief ran with a torch in the hand.

11. My teacher never gives us homework.

12. I fast once a week.

13. The tiger chased the deer into the jungle.

14. The dear children gave a send off to their dear teacher with a heavy heart.

15. The book seems to be very useful.

16. We don't watch television.

17. The computer is quicker.

18. Calculators make the students lazy.

19. We have understood this grammar item well.

20. I thank the Almighty.

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UNIT: 2

VOICE & PARTS OF SPEECH

2.1. Active & Passive Voice

1. I wash clothes every Sunday.

2. Clothes are washed by me every Sunday.

What is the difference between the above two sentences.

Of course, meaning wise, there is literally no difference.

In the sentence 1, the Subject is the doer.

In the sentence 2, the Subject is the receiver or the sufferer.

Examine the following carefully:

S.No Tense Forms Active Voice Passive Voice Changes

1. Simple Present

Tense

I drink milk

every day.

Milk is drunk by

me every day.

‗drink‘ changes into

‗is drunk‘.

2. Present Continuous

Tense

I am drinking

milk.

Milk is being

drunk by me.

‗am drinking‘

changes into ‗is

being drunk‘.

3. Present Perfect

Tense

I have drunk

milk.

Milk has been

drunk by me.

‗have drunk‘

changes into ‗has

been drunk‘.

4. Simple Past Tense I drank milk. Milk was drunk

by me.

‗drank‘ changes into

‗was drunk‘.

5. Past Continuous

Tense

I was drinking

milk.

Milk was being

drunk by me.

‗was drinking‘

changes into ‗was

being drunk‘.

6. Past Perfect Tense I had drunk milk. Milk had been

drunk by me.

‗had drunk‘ changes

into ‗had been

drunk‘

7. Simple Future Tense I will drink milk. Milk will be drunk

by me.

‗will drink‘ changes

into ‗ will be drunk‘.

8. Future Perfect Tense I will have drunk

milk.

Milk will have

been drunk by me.

‗will have drunk‘

changes into ‗will

have been drunk‘.

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Other examples:

S.No Active Voice Passive Voice

1. We must throw waste in the dustbins. Waste must be thrown in the

dustbins by us.

2. Hindhu can play chess. Chess can be played by

Hindhu.

3. Sindhu should not speak lies. Lies should not be spoken by

Sindhu.

4. He could organize the show well. The show could be organized well

by him.

5. We shall drink coffee now. Coffee shall be drunk by us now.

6. The girls will decorate the room. The room will be decorated by the

girls.

7. Our lders would lead us in the right path. We would be lead in the right path

by our elders.

8. The monsoon may bring good harvest. Good harvest may be brought by the

monsoon.

9. He might complete the job. The job might be completed by him.

Tips to follow up strictly:

1. First identify the verbs in the sentence.

2. Next make necessary changes in the verb forms.

3. Bring ‗object‘ to the ‗subject‘s‘ place.

4. Take ‗subject‘ to the ‗object‘s‘ place.

5. Insert ‗by‘ at the apt place.

6. Remember there is no Passive Voice‘ without ‗Past Participle‘ verb. Hence first

change the Main verb or Principal verb into its Past Participle form.

You can be sure of success if you follow the above tips carefully and strictly.

Now try this out to check your grasping ability:

I. Change the following into Passive Voice:

1. We must respect elders.

2. All people can love the neighbours.

3. Parents should understand the likes of the children.

4. Children remember the duties to the parents.

5. She has completed the song.

6. Mr. John was writing novels.

7. She is preparing a new item.

8. Rama won the game.

9. She will give you the instructions.

10. The book will have all the required information.

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II. Change the following into Active Voice:

1. The food packets were distributed by the armed forces.

2. The film will have been seen by us.

3. The apples could have been bought by Radha.

4. The crop is distributed to all by the government.

5. The well water will be tasted by all.

6. The speaking doll will have been presented to Sathish.

7. Voice was understood by the students.

8. The test has been taken up by the children.

9. The tickets were checked by the ticket collector.

10. My mistakes are corrected by me.

2.2. Parts Of Speech

Parts Of Speech are eight in number. They are called

(PARTS OF SPEECH)

1 Noun 5 Adverb

2 Pronoun 6 Preposition

3 Adjective 7 Conjunction

4 Verb 8 Interjection

Noun

A Noun is a naming word. It means a word that is used to name something is called a Noun.

You may name a place, a thing or a human being or a person. For example,

1. Hyderabad and Secundrabad are called twin cities.

2. A ball is round.

3. Krishna is a small boy.

Pronoun

A Pronoun takes the place of a Noun . Repetition and boredom is avoided.

Note the examples:

1. Hyderabad and Secundrabad are big cities in Andhra Pradesh. They are

called twin cities.

2. A ball is round. It is available in many colours.

3. Krishna is a small boy. He likes chocolates.

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Adjective

An Adjective describes a Noun.

Go through the examples:

1. Hyderabad and Secundrabad are called twin cities.

2. A ball is round.

3. Krishna is a small boy.

Verb

A Verb refers to an action. In short, it's a 'doing' word. It also states the status of an action.

Read the examples:

1. Ram plays cricket well.

2. Rathi wrote a letter fast.

3. We are learning grammar thoroughly.

4. Hyderabad and Secundrabad are called twin cities.

5. A ball is round.

6. Krishna was a small boy. He is a man now.

Adverb

An Adverb qualifies a Verb. In short, it adds information to the Verb.

Read the examples below:

Verbs are underlined and Adverbs are in bold letters.

1. Sudha writes neatly.

2. She speaks English fluently.

3. The old man walks slow.

4. Ram plays cricket well.

5. Rathi wrote a letter fast.

6. We are learning grammar thoroughly.

7. Krishna was a small boy. He is a man now.

Preposition

A Preposition is a word that tells about the position of a Noun. It also says about its

relationship with the Noun.

See the examples now:

1. The aeroplanes fly over our heads.

2. The book is on the table.

3. The doctor is available between 9 a,m, and 1 p.m.

4. My house is in front of the temple.

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Conjunction

A Conjunction connects 'words' or 'phrases' or 'sentences'.

1. Bread and butter is a good breakfast.

2. You can write either with a pen or pencil.

3. When you come to Chennai, visit us.

4. You must do exercise or you'll grow fatter.

Interjection

An Interjection is a word that exclaims sudden feelings.

1. Well done! Your performance was really good.

2. Hurrah! We have won the case.

3. Oh! my purse is picked off.

A sample exercise follows:

Analyze the part of speech of every word in the sentences following:

1 She / gave / a / gift.

pn / v / adj / n

2. Radha / and / Sudha / are doing / the / operation.

N / C / n / v / adj / n

3 The / book / is / on / the / table.

Adj/ n / v / prep / adj / n

4 The / hall / was / very / big / yet / it / wasn't / sufficient.

Adj / n / v / adv / adj / con / pn / v / adj

5 A / new / red / mobile / is / lost.

Adj/ adj / adj / n / v / v

6 Wow! / It / is / really / a / wonderful / opportunity.

Int / pro / v / adv / adj / adj / n

Work now:

Analyze the part of speech of every word in the sentences following:

1. The film is very interesting.

2. Chitra gave an orange to me.

3. Many good leaders lived in India.

4. My father narrated us stories on Ram and Krishna.

5. Children watch television for long hours.

6. Students must understand their duty to the society and the country.

7. If we listen and watch carefully, we can learn anything easily.

8. Advertisements help to buy and sell products.

9. Training trains the trainees to perform well in their field.

10. I bought a green colour balloon.

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11. Bad people cannot succeed for a longer time.

12. Good wins but takes a little time.

13. Gandhiji excused the man who had murdered him.

14. Mobiles are cheaper than food articles.

15. Green vegetables are good for health.

16. Recreation is important for an active brain.

17. She has bought a new car.

18. Jack and Jill went up the hill.

19. Do believe others as you believe yourself.

20. God is omnipotent.

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UNIT: 3

DIRECT & INDIRECT SPEECH

There are two ways by which the words of the speaker can be reported to another person. The

actual words of the speaker may be used.

For example,

My lecturer said to us, ―You have to develop your communication skills to get placed in good

companies.‖

This way of reporting the matter is called Direct Speech.

Observe the following:

My lecturer told us that we had to develop our communication skills to get placed in good

companies.

Here, only the message is carried over but not the actual words of the speaker. Such a way of

reporting the matter is called Indirect Speech.

View the following carefully to learn this unit easily:

S.No. Tense Form Direct Speech Indirect Speech Changes

1. Simple Present

Tense

(tense form

doesn‘t change)

The teacher said to us,

―The sun rises in the

east.‖

The teacher told

us that the sun

rises in the east.

1.Universal truth-

insert linker

‗that‘. 2.The tense

form

remains the same.

2. Present

Continuous

Tense

(changes into

PAST

CONTINUOUS

TENSE)

The students said to the

Principal, ―We are

learning English.‖

The students told

the Principal that

they were

learning English.

1.Insert the linker

‗that‘.

2.‗we‘ changes into

‗they‘(students).

3.‗are learning‘

changes into

‗were learning‘.

3. Present Perfect

Tense

(changes into

PAST PERFECT

TENSE)

I said to my mother, ― I

have drunk milk.‖

I told my mother

that I had drunk

milk.

1.Insert the linker

‗that‘.

2.‗have drunk‘

changes into

‗had drunk‘.

4. Present Perfect

Continuous

Tense

(changes into

PAST PERFECT

CONTINUOUS

TENSE)

My grandmother said

to the children, ―I have

been telling you stories

since your childhood.‖

My grandmother

told the children

that she had

been telling them

stories since their

childhood.‖

1.Insert the linker

‗that‘.

2. ‗I‘ changes into

‗she‘(grandmother).

3.‗have been

telling‘ changes

into ‗had been

telling‘.

4. ‘you‘ changes

into ‗them‘

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(children).

5. ‗your‘ changes

into

their‘(children‘s)

Insert the linker

‗that‘.

5. Simple Past

Tense

(changes into

PAST PERFECT

TENSE)

Ravi said to Ranjith,

―You drove the car

very fast.‖

Ravi told Ranjith

that he had

driven the car

very fast.

1.Insert the linker

‗that‘.

2.‘you‘ changes

into ‗he‘.

3.‘drove‘ changes

into ‗had driven‘

6. Past Continuous

Tense

(changes into

PAST

PERFECT

CONTINUOUS

TENSE)

Radha said to Latha,

―We were watching TV

at eight last night.

Radha told Latha

that they had

been watching

TV at eight on

the previous

night.

1.Insert the linker

‗that‘.

2.‘we‘ changes into

‗they‘.

3.‘were watching‘

changes into

‗had been

watching‘

4.‘last night‘

changes into ‗the

previous night‘

7. Past Perfect

Tense

(no change in the

TENSE FORM)

Hari said to Harsha,

―The train had already

left.‖

Hari told Harsha

that the train had

already left.

1.Insert the linker

‗that‘.

2.No change in the

Tense form.

8. Past Perfect

Continuous

Tense

(no change in the

TENSE FORM)

Sandhya said to

Faridha,‖ Our

forefathers had been

fighting together for

the independence.‖

Sandhya told

Faridha that their

forefathers had

been fighting

together for the

independence.

1.Insert the linker

‗that‘.

2.No change in the

Tense form.

9. Simple Future

Tense

( note the

changes from the

‗changes

column)

Sita said to her

husband, ‖We shall

receive our guests at

the airport this

evening.‖

Sita told her

husband that

they should

receive their

guests at the

airport that

evening.‖

1.Insert the linker

‗that‘.

2.‘shall receive‘

changes into

‗should receive‘.

3.‘this‘ changes

into ‗that‘.

10. Future

Continuous

Tense

( note the

changes from the

‗changes

column)

The students said, ‖We

will be doing the II

year diploma next

year.‖

The students said

that they would

be doing the II

year diploma the

following year.

1.Insert the linker

‗that‘.

2.‘will be doing‘

changes into

‗would be doing‘.

3.‘next year‘

changes into ‗the

following year‘.

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11. Future Perfect

Tense

( note the

changes from the

‗changes

column)

The lecturer said ,

―You will have

completed your

diploma by 2014.‖

The lecturer told

the students that

they would have

completed their

diploma by 2014.

1.Insert the linker

‗that‘.

2.‘will have

completed‘

changes into

‗would have

completed‘.

3.‘your‘ changes

into ‗their‘.

12. Future Perfect

Continuous

Tense

( note the

changes from the

‗changes

column)

My father said to me,

―You will have been

working in a company

in 2015.‖

My father told

me that I would

have been

working in a

company in

2015.‖

1.Insert the linker

‗that‘.

2.‘will have been

working‘ changes

into ‗would have

been working‘.

Now learn the other types:

S.No. Type Direct Speech Indirect Speech Changes

1. Question type

(Q beginning

with a Q word)

A stranger said to me,

―How should I go to

the railway station?‖

A stranger

enquired me how

he had to go to

the railway

station.

1.The linker ‗that‘

is not required.

2.‘said‘ changes

into ‗enquired‘.

3.‘I‘ changes into

‗he‘.

4. Q form changes

into a

statement.(change

the verb and the

noun places)

My friend‘s father

said to me, ―What is

your name?‖

My friend‘s

father asked me

what my name

was.

2. Question type

(Q beginning

with an auxiliary

verb)

My friend said to me,

―Will you be available

at home this

evening?‖

My friend asked

me if I would be

available at

home that

evening.

1.Give the linker

‗if‘.

2.‘said‘ changes into

‗asked‘.

3.‘you‘ changes into

‗I‘.

4. Q form changes

into a

statement.(change

the verb and the

noun places)

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3. Imperatives My mother said to my

brother, ―Don‘t go

alone.‖

My mother

advised my

brother not to go

alone.

1.The linker ‗that‘

is not required.

2.‘said‘ changes into

‗advised‘.

3.‘Don‘t‘ becomes

‗not to‘.

4. Imperatives My teacher said to me,

―Distribute these

papers to the

students.‖

My teacher

asked me to

distribute those

papers to the

students.

1.Give the linker

‗to‘.

2.‘these‘ changes

into

‗those‘.

3.No change in the

TENSE FORM

Try this out:

I. Change the following into Indirect Speech:

1. The teacher said to the students, ―Blood is red.‖

2. My mother asked me, ―Have you completed your homework?‖

3. My friends said to me, ―We can learn a lot from books.‖

4. The stranger said to the policeman, ―Somebody has picked off my purse.‖

5. The policeman said to the stranger, ―Do you suspect anybody?‖

6. I asked my teacher, ―When do we have our exams?‖

7. My friend said to me, ―I have packed the luggage for the trip.‖

8. The lawyer said to the client, ―You must speak truth to me.‖

9. The doctor said to the boy, ―Eat a lot of vegetables.‖

10. The man said, ―The system works wonderful.‖

11. I said, ―I ate these biscuits.‖

12. The teacher said, ―The books contain a lot of examples.‖

13. I asked the policeman, ‖Where is the post office?‖

14. The students said, ―My teacher teaches us excellent.‖

15. The leader said,‖ We had worked for the poor and we must continue to work for

the poor.‖

II. Change the following into Direct Speech:

1. The conductor told the passenger that he did not have the change.

2. The Manager enquired the staff if they wanted off the following day.

3. The Mathematics teacher said that two and two makes four.

4. The rabbit said to the tortoise that it was faster than him.

5. The mother asked the servant why she had not turned up the previous day.

6. The teacher enquired the students what they would discuss that day.

7. The passenger told the ticket collector that he had bought the ticket but missed it.

8. Sujith said to Vimal that their friend Sudan had won the game.

9. The fat man said that his head was over-flowing with wonderful ideas.

10. The umpire announced that the game was over.

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UNIT: 4

PREPOSITIONS

What is a preposition?

The answer lies in the question itself. It tells of the position and placed before(pre) a noun or

a noun phrase. It conveys its relationship with the noun to the remaining part of the sentence.

Some common Prepositions are

at, in, on, under, over, above, below, by, beside, with , between, among, besides, within, for,

to, from, as,of, etc.

There are two kinds of prepositions. They are Simple and Complex.

Simple prepositions are prepositions comprising of single words.

Complex prepositions are phrases.

Examples of Simple prepositions are given above.

Examples of Complex prepositions: ahead of, due to, indulge in , relationship with, etc.

Fill in the blanks with suitable Prepositions:

1. The book is ________ the table.

2. The donkey was caught ___________ the tiger _________ the fox.

3. We had a holy dip _________ the Ganga.

4. The friends met each other __________ the station.

5. The great man was honored _________ a reward.

6. You must be here _____________ ten o'clock.

7. I will meet you ___________ my meeting with the President.

8. Every page ________ the book is informative.

9. The watch _______ the wrist helps us in time-keeping.

10. The house was looted ________ the servants.

11. You can mark ________ a marker.

12. The boys were sitting _________ the tables.

13. The angry lion jumped ________ the well.

14. The robber hurled the stick ________ the policeman.

15. The staff will be here _______ ten.

16. Share the sweets _________ you three.

17. The gang divided the loot _________ them.

18. They live ____ Chennai ______ 1990.

19. We must be able to make use ________ the waste too.

20. The children prefer ice-cream _______ boost.

21. I am tired of talking _____ you.

22. She is fond _____ sweets.

23. The children prefer noodles _____ bread.

24. Nobody is inferior ___ anybody.

25. I have left my jewels _________ the bureau.

26. There is no fear ______ thieves.

27. My sister is elder _______ me.

28. The Ganga flows _______ the coast of Varanasi.

29. The planes fly ________ our heads.

30. Cats prefer sitting ________ the tables.

22

23

UNIT: 1

ONE – WORD SUBSTITUTIONS

One-word Substitutions

1. An Astrologer's Day

1 astrologer fortune teller

2 rescue to save / to set free

3 avenge take revenge

4 Cowrie shells brightly coloured shells of small snails

5 Babble Confused noise created by talking

6 obscure difficult to understand

7 Mystic not easily understood/ magical / supernatural

8 resplendent bright coloured/splendid / dazzling

9 abnormal something unusual / strange

10 enhance to increase or further improve the quality

11 whiskers

hair growing on a man‘s face especially on his

cheeks and chin

12 Dahlia

a large brightly coloured garden flower ,often

shaped like a ball

13 Boughs Branches of a tree

14 Flank the side of something such as a building

15 surging people phasing up and down

16 Junk second hand goods / garbage

17 auctioneer

a person whose job is to direct an action and sell

the goods

18 vociferousness

expressing the opinion in a loud and confident

way

19 Ware objects made of some material

20 Flare to burn brightly

21 enchant

to attract somebody strongly and make them

feel very interested

22 bewilder to confuse somebody

23 Tilling to prepare and use land for growing crops

24 ancestral

that belonged to a person in your family who

lived a long time ago

25 forefathers

persons (especially men)in your family who

lived a long time ago

26 Saturn one of the nine planets

27 impetuous

something that encourages a quick or rash

action

28 Shaft

a metal bar that joins parts of a machine or an

engine together, enabling power and movement

to be passed from one part to another

29 Stray wander away

30 paraphernalia

a large number of objects or personal

possessions especially the equipment that you

need for a particular activity.

24

31 careworn looking tired due to worries

32 Thrust to push something with force

33 Piqued a bitter feeling

34 glimpse to have a quick look at something or somebody

35 incantation

special words that are spoken/ sung to have a

magical effect

36 Haggle to argue with somebody

37 enthusiasm

a strong feeling of excitement and interest in

something and desire to become involved in it

38 Pinch a small amount of something

39 Gasp intake of breath

40 Dally to do something very slowly

41 Tangles a state of confusion

42 perception the way one looks at things

43 forbidding Seeming unfriendly and threatening

2. The Sun, The Planets And The Stars

1 Precise clear cut

2 starvation hunger / no sufficient food

3 philosopher a person who thinks deeply about things

4 diameter width of a circular object

5 perpetual without being interrupted

6 twilight beginning of night / early evening hours

7 meteorites

small bodies ,often bits and pieces of comets ,

traveling through space

8 suspend to officially stop something for a time

9 Halo bright circle of light

10 astronomer

a scientist who studies about sun, planets, space,

etc.

11 light-year

the distance traveled by light in one mean solar

year, about 5880,000,000,000 miles

12 equator

an imaginary line around the earth at an equal

distance from the north and the south pole

13 metallic vapours a very high temperature

3.The Continuing Spell Of Ramanujan

1 Stimulus

something that helps somebody to develop

better

2 Fundamental serious and very important

3 Algorithms

a set of rules that must be followed when

solving a particular problem

4 Paradoxes to oppose within themselves

5 Contradictions a lack of agreement

6 Defy treat with disrespect

7 Glean collect together

8 Obsess

to completely fill your mind so that you can‘t

think of anything else

9 Cram to fill up

10 Deficiency Shortage of something

25

11

incapacitated

made ineffective or unable to do anything

12 Origin a starting point

13 Legacy

money or property given to you at the death of

somebody

14 Aptitude a natural ability or skill at doing something

15 Pitted Matched against

4. On Saying ‘Please’

1 Pseudonym pen name

2 Edit

to prepare a book to be published by collecting

together and arranging a piece of writing

3 Complainant the person giving complaint

4 Refuse not to accept

5 Comply to obey a rule or an order

6 courtesy good manners

7 assault Physical attack

8 retaliate to hit back

9 assailant the person who attacks

10 haughty proud and arrogant

11 boorish rude and ill-mannered

12 laceration to cut or to tear

13 negligible of very little importance

14 shin the front part of the leg below the knee

15 vanity of high self-importance and arrogance

16 insight to understand what may happen

17 anecdote

a short and an interesting story about a real

person or an event

18 pageboy

a small boy who helps or follows a bride during

marriage ceremony

19 hen-pecked

a man who simply listens to his wife and feels

that he can‘t do anything on his own

20 insolent rude and disrespectful

21 martyrdom

the person who suffers very much or is killed

because of the religious or the political beliefs

22 morose sad, miserable and depressed

23 decalogue

the ten commandments of Moses;

a moral code which people, in general, must

observe

24 discriminate to distinguish or to categorize

25 ordeal trail or suffering

26 knave a dishonest man

27 stale not fresh or out of date

28 assume to take up / to understand

29 fare money for the ticket

30 countenance tolerance

31 irradiate

to treat food with gamma radiation in order to

preserve it

32 infectious that is transferable

33 uncouth to behave bad

26

34 descend move down

35 benediction Christian prayer of blessing

36 gaiety the state of being cheerful

37 diffuse to spread over a wide area

38 apology request for forgiveness

39 panegyric writing in praise of a person

40 modest being simple and humble

41 invoke appeal to / call upon

42 revenge vengeance / pay back

43 commend praise / speak well of

44 redress to correct something that is unfair

45 attune

familiar with somebody or something so that

you can understand and adjust

46 adverse

negative and unpleasant/not likely to produce a

good result

27

UNIT: 2

ARTICLES & QUESTION TAGS

2.1. Articles

Articles specify of what or whom we are speaking. For example if we say

'I saw an accident on the way.'

It means we happened to see one accident on your way.

When we say

A boy was badly hurt.

We mean one boy.

Then, in the statement,

The next day I went to the hospital to see the boy.

It means 'the particular day' you went to the hospital.

By 'the hospital' you refer to .the particular hospital' you went to see the boy.

Finally

'the boy' refers to the same boy you have talked of him earlier.

So, there are three articles in English language.

'a', 'an' and 'the' are those three articles.

'a' and 'an' are called Indefinite Articles.

'the' is called Definite Article.

Correct usage of 'a' and 'an'

Use ‘A’ before –

1. Words beginning with a consonant and pronounced with a sound of a consonant (

21 letters except a, e, I, o, u in the English alphabet) a book, a banana , a ball, a

system, a film

2. Words beginning with vowels but pronounced with a sound of a consonan 'yu' ;

a European, a unit, a university, a uniform, a useful thing, a universal

truth, a union, a utensil, a ewe

3. Words beginning with vowels but pronounced with a sound of a consonant 'wa' (

'O' pronounced as 'wa' ) a one-rupee note, a one-eyed man, a one-way traffic, such

a one

Use 'An' before –

1. Words beginning with a vowel and pronounced with a sound of a vowel ( a, e, I, o, u)

an apple, an eye, an idea, an oyster, an umbrella.

2. Words beginning with consonants but pronounced with a sound of vowel or where the

first letter is silent. an honest boy, an hour, an heir, an honorable man

28

Usage of Definite Article 'the'

Fill in the blanks with suitable articles:

1. _______ umbrella man laughed at _______ man without umbrella.

2. She was suffering from ______ shoulder pain.

3. The boy was in ___ uniform.

4. _________ girl under ______ is my cousin.

5. We went for ______ holy bath in _______ Ganga.

6. _____ Poor always suffer.

7. My friend booked ___ ticket for _____ new film.

THE

Before Superlatives

(eg) the best, the

tallest

before rivers, ranges

of mountains and

groups of islands (eg)

The Ganges , The

Himalayas, The

Andaman & Nicobar

Names of well-

known books (eg)

The Bible

a whole class

eg. the rich,

the old

Some countries

(eg) The United

States

Names of

newspapers

(eg) The Hindu

Particular thing

Public Buildings &

Institutions (eg) The Taj

Mahal, The university

of London

Things those are

unique of their kind

(eg) the sun, the moon

29

8. I require ___ stove, _____ utensil, _____ little water, _____ few leaves, ___ little rice.

9. ____ Orange and ____ match box for the experiment.

10. ______ novel I read last week was ____ interesting one.

11. _____ Himalayas in ____ north is ____ north boundary of India.

12. Ramesh ate _____ the sweet to his heart's content.

13. Niraja is ___ Indian but her friend is ____ European.

14. The police knew where _____ thieves were hiding.

15. ‗Pureit‘ is ____ good water filter.

16. Recreation is _____ very good exercise to mind.

17. ____ Examinations test ____ ability of candidates.

18. Test is ____ essential chapter in life.

19. Jokes in ______ films play ______ vital role in _____ films.

20. _____ hero alone doesn't make a film.

21. Playing with _____ children gives ____ immense pleasure to ____ grown-ups. It's

_____ special event in life.

2.2. QUESTION TAGS

Tags are something small that are attached to something big. For example, a price

detail that is attached to an object or maintenance details or washing instructions that are

attached to new electronic items or new garments respectively are called tags.

In the English language, tags are attached to statements for confirmation sake. As a

matter of fact, when they are added correctly, they add beauty to the language. The unit will

be certainly interesting.

Now, auxiliary verbs are of primary importance to add a right tag to a statement.

Auxiliary Verbs are

30

1 am 9 does 17 shall

2 is 10 do 18 should

3 are 11 did 19 may

4 was 12 must 20 might

5 were 13 can 21 dare

6 has 14 could 22 need

7 have 15 will 23 Ought to

8 had 16 would 24 Used to

Observe the following examples carefully:

1. The teacher is clear to you, isn't she?

2. You don‘t have any doubts, have you?

3. She has already learnt it, hasn't she?

4. The students can write on their own, can't they?

5. You are clever, aren't you?

6. He hadn't exhausted his property, had he?

Did you notice the positive statements take negative tags and negative statements take

positive tags. Be thorough with the auxiliary verbs.

Negative auxiliaries

1 am aren't 9 does doesn't 17 shall shan't

2 is isn't 10 do don't 18 should shouldn't

3 are aren't 11 did didn't 19 may _____

4 was wasn't 12 must mustn't 20 might ____

5 were weren't 13 can can't 21 dare ___

6 has hasn't 14 could couldn''t 22 need needn't

7 have haven't 15 will won't 23 Ought to oughtn't

to

8 had hadn't 16 would wouldn't 24 Used to ___

Read these examples:

1. Krishna takes care of the cows, doesn't he?

2. Vijay took a good rest yesterday, didn't he?

3. They gather honey from the flowers, don't they?

The above sentences don't possess auxiliary verbs. Hence, they must be given according to

the tense form of the statements. In this regard, always remember the three verbs ' does, do

and did'.

31

Give 'does' or 'do' if the statement is in Present Tense ('does' for a Singular Subject and 'do'

for a Plural Subject)

Give 'did' if the statement is in Past Tense.

Note: If the statement has any negative words, then give only positive tags.

Examples:

1. Gandhiji was never disloyal, was he?

2. None attended the meeting, did any?

3. There was nobody to answer, was there?

4. The food is hardly sufficient, is it?

5. There were scarcely any, were there?

6. I am very soft, aren't I?

Steps to remember:

1. Identify the auxiliary verb.

2. Change a positive auxiliary verb into a negative auxiliary verb or a negative auxiliary

verb into a positive auxiliary verb.

3. In the absence of an auxiliary verb, identify the tense form of the statement. Supply

'does' or 'do' or 'did' suitably.

4. Add the Subject (pronoun) at the end. If 'pronoun' isn't found, substitute suitable

pronouns.

5. Give a positive tag if any negative word is found in the statement.

6. In case of 'let's' statement , give 'shall' tag. Let's meet at the party

tomorrow, shall we?

_____________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________

List of Pronouns

1. He 2. She 3. It 4. They 5. We 6. You

_____________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________

Work out the exercise now:

Fill in the blanks with suitable Question tags:

1. The government has a clear plan to cater to the needs of the new engineers,

________________________________ ?

2. He is a very intelligent person, _______________________?

3. A rabbit is white, ________________________?

4. They are ripe, __________________________?

5. I am informative, _______________________?

6. She doesn‘t keep up her promise, ____________________ ?

7. They don‘t appear true, _____________________ ?

32

8. We didn't sleep well last night, _______________?

9. The people have broad views, ________________?

10. We had already heard the news, ________________ ?

11. The doll can talk, _____________ ?

12. The magician could perform many tricks, ____________?

13. We will meet again tomorrow, __________________?

14. They would call us any time, ______________?

15. You shouldn‘t go now, _____________?

16. I shall talk to you later, ___________________?

17. Let's us go on a picnic, _______________________?

18. There is nothing inside the box, _______________?

19. None in the crowd was ready for the challenge, ______________ ?

20. I have never spoken lies, _____________ ?

33

UNIT: 3

PREFIXES & SUFFIXES

Prefixes & Suffixes

1. PREFIXES 1. An Astrologer's Day

1 able disable

2 avoidable unavoidable

3 punctual unpunctual

5 comfort discomfort

6 comfortable uncomfortable

7 attractive unattractive

8 attract distract

9 colored discolored

10 considerable inconsiderable

11 manage mismanage

12 please displease

13 honest dishonest

14 continue discontinue

15 satisfactory unsatisfactory

16 satisfaction dissatisfaction

17 possible impossible

18 argue argument

19 prepared unprepared

20 potent impotent

The Sun, The Planets and The Stars

1 interesting uninteresting

2 like dislike

3 perfect imperfect

4 probable improbable

5 comparable incomparable

6 power empower

7 told untold

The Continuing Spell Of Ramanujan

1 paralleled unparalleled

2 educated uneducated

3 usual unusual

4 appreciated unappreciated

5 credible incredible

6 relevant irrelevant

7 known unknown

8 fortunate unfortunate

9 effective ineffective

10 complete incomplete

34

11 wrap unwrap

12 changed unchanged

13 touched untouched

14 stop nonstop

4. On Saying 'Please'

1 humour ill-humour

2 courtesy discourtesy

3 doubted undoubted

4 definite indefinite

5 violence non-violence

6 legal illegal

7 civil uncivil

8 important unimportant

9 reasonable unreasonable

10 mannered in mannered

11 pleasant unpleasant

12 friendly unfriendly

13 exhaustible inexhaustible

14 civility incivility

15 civil uncivil

16 couth uncouth

17 agreeable disagreeable

18 modest immodest

20 tolerable intolerable

2. SUFFIXES

1. An Astrologer's Day

enhance enhancement

dark darkness

remark remarkable

move movement

auction auctioneer

attract attraction

consider

considerable/

considerate

enchant enchantment

benefit beneficial

manage management

intend intention

know knowledge

satisfy satisfaction

possible possibility

accept acceptance

agitate agitation

ruthless ruthlessly

prepare preparation

proceed procedure

35

success successful

dead death

reflect reflection

regret regretful

silent silence

explain explanation

2. The Sun, The Planets And The Stars

precise precisely

direct direction

involve involvement

complete completely

use useful

success successful

describe description

locate location

engage engagement

planet planetary

delight delightful

beauty beautiful

system systematic

weigh weight

power powerful

create creature

warm warmth

help helpful

wonder wonderful

express expressive

exist existence

advance advancement

ignorant ignorance

develop development

similar similarity

probable probability

require requirement

revolve revolution

count countless

compose composition

bright brightful

reflect reflection

measure measurement

moment momentary

distant distance

miracle miraculous

starve starvation

36

3. The Continuing Spell Of Ramanujan

able ability

judge judgment

account accountant

educate education

clerk clerical

obsess obsession

wise wisdom

recognise recognition

evaluate evaluation

invite invitation

accumulate accumulation

realize realization

arrive arrival

care careful

present presentation

add additional

mystery mysterious

ill illness

discover discovery

collect collection

poor poverty

difficult difficulty

collapse collision

4. On Saying 'Please'

grace graceful

refuse refusal

instruct instruction

comment commentary

punish punishable

reason reasonable

legislate legislature

legal legally

civil civility

retaliate retaliation

protect protection

compensate compensation

allow allowance

restore restoration

compel compulsion

intellect intellectual

moral morality

neglect neglection

infect infection

administer administration

govern government

resent resentment

discriminate discrimination

discover discovery

37

annoy annoyance

assume assumption

assure assurance

evident evidently

pave pavement

kind kindly

nature natural

manner mannerism

agree agreement

restore restoration

suggest suggestion

polite politeness

revenge revengeful

effect effective

38

UNIT : 4

TENSES

Tenses

Past Tense Present Tense Future Tense

There are three Tenses and twelve Tense Forms.

1. Present Tense

1. Simple Present Tense

The Simple Present is used

a. to express habitual action

I brush my teeth twice a day.

b. to express universal truths

The earth is round

c. to express repeated or routine action

I wash my clothes on Sundays.

2. Present Continuous Tense

The Present Continuous Tense is used

to express an action going on at the time of speaking

We are learning English grammar.

3. Present Perfect Tense

The Present Perfect Tense is used

a. to express an action that has just then completed

The bell has rung.

b. to express an action which had already taken place but the effect

of which still continues.

I have been to Ooty twice.

Simple Present Tense

Simple Past Tense

Past Perfect Tense

Past Continuous Tense

Past Perfect Continuous Tense Future Perfect

Continuous Tense

Present Continuous Tense

Present Perfect Tense

Present Perfect

Continuous Tense

Future Continuous

Tense

Future Perfect Tense

Simple Future Tense

Tenses

39

4. Present Perfect Continuous Tense

The Present Perfect Continuous Tense is used

a. to express an action that began in the past and continuing till date

We have been learning English since Class I.

b. Past Tense

5. Simple Past Tense

The Simple Past Tense is used

a. to express a completed action in the past.

I met him in the market yesterday.

b. to express a habitual action in the past.

The Hindu widows burnt themselves along with their husbands.

6. Past Continuous Tense

The Past Continuous Tense is used

a. to express an action that was continuing at the time of some

specified time in the past.

I was sleeping well at twelve last night.

7. Past Perfect Tense

The Past Perfect Tense is used

a. to express an action completed before another past action. It usually expresses two

past actions.

The train had left before I reached the station.

8. Past Perfect Continuous Tense

The Past Perfect Continuous Tense is used

I) to express an action that was continuing till some time specified in the past.

My forefathers had been living in Burma till the struggle for

independence began.

Future Tense

9. Simple Future Tense

The Simple Future Tense is used

I) to express an action that will take place in the future time.

We shall go to the temple next week.

1. Future Continuous Tense

The Future Continuous Tense is used

I) to express an action that will be continuing at some point in

the future.

We will be doing the II year course by this time next year.

40

2. Future Perfect Tense

The Future Perfect Tense is used

I) to express an action that will have completed at some time

in the future.

We will have completed the course by 2014.

3. Future Perfect Continuous Tense

The Future Perfect Continuous Tense is used

I) to express an action that will be in progress at some point

of time in the future.

We will have been working in an MNC by 2018.

Frame 12 sentences using 12 tense forms with the verbs listed below:

S.No. Present Tense Past Tense Past Participle Present

Participle

1 give gave given giving

2 take took taken Taking

3 draw drew drawn drawing

4 drive drove driven driving

5 buy bought bought buying

6 bring brought brought bringing

7 drink drank drunk drinking

8 eat ate eaten eating

9 sit sat sat sitting

10 run ran run running

11 come came come coming

12 fly flew flown flying

13 throw threw thrown throwing

14 write wrote written writing

15 break broke broken breaking

16 forget forgot forgotten forgetting

17 try tried tried trying

18 sell sold sold selling

19 fight fought fought fighting

20 wear wore worn wearing

21 catch caught caught catching

22 grow grew grown growing

23 cry cried cried crying

24 sing sang sung singing

25 think thought thought thinking

26 do did done doing

27 go went gone going

28 speak spoke spoken speaking

29 bring brought brought bringing

30 listen listened listened listening

31 read read read reading

41

32 hang Hanged/hung Hanged/hung hanging

33 sleep slept slept sleeping

34 arrive arrived arrived arriving

35 leave left left leaving

36 walk walked walked walking

37 see saw seen seeing

38 help helped helped helping

39 attend attended attended attending

40 make made made making

41 teach taught taught teaching

S.No. Tense Forms VERBS

Sing – sang - sung Go – went - gone

1 Simple Present Tense I sing songs. She goes to temple.

2 Present Continuous

Tense

I am singing songs. She is going to temple.

3 Present Perfect Tense I have sung songs. She has gone to

temple.

4 Present Perfect

Continuous Tense

I have been singing songs. She has been going to

temple.

5 Simple Past Tense I sang songs. She went to temple.

6 Past Continuous Tense I was singing songs. She was going to

temple.

7 Past Perfect Tense I had sung songs. She had gone to

temple.

8 Past Perfect Continuous

Tense

I had been singing songs. She had been going to

temple.

9 Simple Future Tense I will sing songs. She will go to temple.

10 Future Continuous

Tense

I will be singing songs. She will be going to

temple.

11 Future Perfect Tense I will have sung songs. She will have gone to

temple.

12 Future Perfect

Continuous Tense

I will have been singing songs. She will have been

going to temple.

S.No. Tense Forms VERBS

come – came - come drive – drove - driven

1 Simple Present Tense My aunt comes home

regularly.

He drives cars.

2 Present Continuous

Tense

My aunt is coming home

regularly.

He is driving cars.

3 Present Perfect Tense My aunt has come home

regularly.

He has driven cars.

4 Present Perfect

Continuous Tense

My aunt has been coming

home regularly.

He has been driving cars.

42

5 Simple Past Tense My aunt came home regularly. He drove cars.

6 Past Continuous Tense My aunt was coming home

regularly.

He was driving cars.

7 Past Perfect Tense My aunt had come home

regularly.

He had driven cars.

8 Past Perfect Continuous

Tense

My aunt had been coming

home regularly.

He had been driving

cars.

9 Simple Future Tense My aunt will come home

regularly.

He will drive cars.

10 Future Continuous

Tense

My aunt will be coming home

regularly.

He will be driving cars.

11 Future Perfect Tense My aunt will have come home

regularly.

He will have driven cars.

12 Future Perfect

Continuous Tense

My aunt will have been

coming home regularly.

He will have been

driving cars.

S.No. Tense Forms VERBS

take – took - taken eat – ate - eaten

1 Simple Present Tense They take photographs. We eat vegetables.

2 Present Continuous

Tense

They are taking photographs. We are eating

vegetables.

3 Present Perfect Tense They have taken photographs. We have eaten

vegetables.

4 Present Perfect

Continuous Tense

They have been taking

photographs.

We have been eating

vegetables.

5 Simple Past Tense They took photographs. We ate vegetables.

6 Past Continuous Tense They were taking

photographs.

We were eating

vegetables.

7 Past Perfect Tense They had taken photographs. We had eaten vegetables.

8 Past Perfect Continuous

Tense

They had been taking

photographs.

We had been eating

vegetables.

9 Simple Future Tense They will take photographs. We will eat vegetables.

10 Future Continuous

Tense

They will be taking

photographs.

We will be eating

vegetables.

11 Future Perfect Tense They will have taken

photographs.

We will have eaten

vegetables.

12 Future Perfect

Continuous Tense

They will have been taking

photographs.

We will have been eating

vegetables.

S.No. Tense Forms VERBS

teach – taught - taught think – thought - thought

1 Simple Present Tense My sister teaches me. He thinks good.

2 Present Continuous

Tense

My sister is teaching me. He is thinking good.

3 Present Perfect Tense My sister has taught me. He has thought good.

4 Present Perfect

Continuous Tense

My sister has been teaching

me.

He has been thinking

good.

5 Simple Past Tense My sister taught me. He thought good.

43

6 Past Continuous

Tense

My sister was teaching me. He was thinking good.

7 Past Perfect Tense My sister had taught me. He had thought good.

8 Past Perfect Continuous

Tense

My sister had been teaching

me.

He had been thinking

good.

9 Simple Future Tense My sister will teach me. He will think good.

10 Future Continuous

Tense

My sister will be teaching me. He will be thinking good.

11 Future Perfect Tense My sister will have taught

me.

He will have thought

good.

12 Future Perfect

Continuous Tense

My sister will have been

teaching me.

He will have been

thinking good.

S.No. Tense Forms VERBS

buy – bought - bought Bring – brought - brought

1 Simple Present Tense I buy story books. He brings sweets.

2 Present Continuous

Tense

I am buying story books. He is bringing sweets.

3 Present Perfect Tense I have bought story books. He has brought sweets.

4 Present Perfect

Continuous Tense

I have been buying story

books.

He has been bringing

sweets.

5 Simple Past Tense I bought story books. He brought sweets.

6 Past Continuous

Tense

I was buying story books. He was bringing sweets.

7 Past Perfect Tense I had bought story books. He had brought sweets.

8 Past Perfect

Continuous Tense

I had been buying story

books.

He had been bringing

sweets.

9 Simple Future Tense I will buy story books. He will bring sweets.

10 Future Continuous

Tense

I will be buying story books. He will be bringing

sweets.

11 Future Perfect Tense I will have bought story

books.

He will have brought

sweets.

12 Future Perfect

Continuous Tense

I will have been buying story

books.

He will have been bringing

sweets.

Books for Reference:

a. Technical Communication, English Skills For Engineers, Meenakshi Raman &

Sangeeta Sharma, Oxford University Press

b. Objective English , II Edition, Edgar Thorpe & Showick Thorpe, Pearson Education

44

45

UNIT: 1

COMPREHENSION

Do you know the meaning for the word ‘comprehension’?

Comprehend means to understand. The learner is to comprehend and grasp the given

information or story and answer the questions asked. There are listening comprehension

exercises too. Now we are going to deal here with the reading comprehension units.

This sort of exercise is focused to develop multi skills of the learners. It trains the learners to

read, understand, think and act.

Sample Passage

Henry Ford, as we know, has found literally hundreds of ways to make extra profits.

He has attacked waste and costs like a Titan. He has revolutionized the art of manufacturing.

No other man, in any country, has done as much to show us what efficient manufacturing

means. He has kept only a part of his profits for himself. The rest has gone to his employees

and customers, by means of higher wages and lower prices.

Most businesses are dwarfed. They are no longer today than they were some years

ago. Most of the owners are content to jog along with dwarfed business. As someone has

said, ―The surest way for a small business to become big is to think in terms of big business‖.

In business as well as in sports, we study the winners and not the all who ran. Any small man

who will not learn from the big man will continue to have a dwarfed business.

Tips for Prosperity of a Business

Questions:

1. Where was Henry Ford‘s keen attention on?

Henry Ford‘s keen attention was on efficient manufacturing.

1. How does he treat his employees?

He looks at them as he looks at himself. He gives away a part of his

profits in the form of wages.

2. How can one develop his business?

One can develop one‘s business by possessing high ideals or thoughts.

3. Where should our focus linger if we wish to develop our business?

If we wish to develop our business, our focus should linger on the people

who deal with bigger businesses.

4. What do you learn from this passage?

We learn that our aims should be high.

46

Read the following passage carefully and answer the questions in your own words:

The most frightening aspect of malnutrition is that it causes permanent damage to the

brain. Experiments carried out on animals puts forward that brain damage due to malnutrition

is irretrievable. This may not be true of human beings. However, known facts as well as

results of tests conducted so far point to distressing conclusions. The human brain grows very

fast. Three months before its birth, the child‘s brain weighs one-fourth of the adult‘s brain. In

one year, the brain of the child is already 66 percent of the weight of the adult brain. At four

years the brain weighs 90 percent and at eight the child‘s brain is the size of an adult‘s and

there is no further increase. Quite obviously the first four years are crucial for the

development of the brain. If the child suffers from malnutrition at this stage, the damage to

the brain remains forever.National Institute of Nutrition, Hyderabad, is ahead analyzing the

causes of malnutrition. It has been found that consuming the lake water rich in iodine in the

sub-Himalayan region controls the goiter. The Institute has also found that inexpensive leafy

vegetables rich in Vitamin A substitute egg and butter. The Institute has also carried out

significant research into strengthening of various foods. Modern bread rich in proteins

enhances the nutrition in the intake. Likewise common salt rich in amino acids is also a

promising factor.

Questions:

1. Why is much importance given to the right nutrition of children?

2. Why is the first four years crucial in a child‘s life?

3. Who is carrying out the researches in the field of malnutrition?

4. What Vitamin is rich in leafy vegetables?

5. List an item rich in proteins that would cure the ill effects of malnutrition.

Read the following passage carefully and answer the questions in your own words:

As Gandhiji said the poor of the world cannot be helped by mass production but only

the production by the masses will help them. The system of mass production, provided with

sophisticated machines and instruments results in helping the mass. The highly capital-

intensive, high energy-input dependent and human labour-saving technology, presupposes

that you are already rich, for a great deal of capital investment is needed to establish one

single workplace. The system of production by the masses mobilizes the priceless resources

which are possessed by all human beings - their clever brains and skilful hands and supports

them with first-class tools.

The technology of mass production is inherently violent, ecologically damaging and

self-defeating in terms of non-renewable resources and dampens the human resource. The

technology of production by the masses, making use of the best of modern knowledge and

experience, is conducive to decentralization, compatible with the laws of ecology, gentle in

its use of scarce resources and designed to serve the human person instead of making him or

her the servant of human machines. I have named it intermediate technology to signify that it

is vastly superior to the primitive technology of bygone ages but at the same time much

simpler, cheaper and freer than the super technology of the rich. One can also call it self-help

technology or democratic or people‘s technology – a technology from which everybody can

gain admittance and which is not reserved to those already rich and powerful.

47

Questions:

1. What do you mean by ‗Mass Production‖?

2. What are the advantages of ‗Mass Production‘?

3. Who benefits the most through ‗Mass Production‘?

4. Is ‗Mass Production‘ reserved only for the rich and the powerful?

5. What is intermediate technology?

Read the following passage carefully and answer the questions in your own words:

Compact Discs (CDs) have revolutionized the music industry with their surprisingly

realistic sound. The six inch discs appear as thin plastic sandwiches with aluminium at the

centre. They have digitally recorded material that is read by laser beams, so the sound has

none of the crackling of vinyl records. CDs are also virtually indestructible and they are

lighter and smaller than conventional records. Since their introduction, CDs have become

more affordable and widely available. In fact they are now sold in electronic and video stores

that didn‘t formerly carry records or cassettes. There has been a phenomenal growth in the

sale of CDs. Sales climbed dramatically during the second half of the 1980s. In the 1990s

sales have been greater. CDs have all but replaced records in stores and in spite of them being

less affordable than cassettes, they continue to gain popularity.

Questions:

1. Why do most of the people prefer CDs to cassettes?

2. What was the revolution made by the CDs?

3. Why does the author refer to CDs as ‗sandwiches‘?

4. According to the passage, which one one of the following is true?

a. New kinds of stores are selling CDs.

b. Stores are selling more CDs than cassettes.

c. Stores are losing money on their cassettes.

d. Stores are earning more on their cassettes.

5. What is the author trying to convey through this passage?

Read the following passage carefully and answer the questions in your own words:

A mother is a person with magnetic charm and is the uncrowned queen of a house

rules her subjects with majesty and power, untainted by politics. To childish imagination she

is the epitome of strength and embodiment of courage. She cherishes the fondest hopes and

wildest dreams for her children. Her unselfish and limitless love and generous undertaking,

mould, nourish and sustain life‘s complex path from infancy to adolescence. She toils from

morning to night and never complains of tiredness. She lavishes her tender care on her

children, comforting and shielding them in all difficulties. At the time of sickness she spends

many an anxious hour by their bedside by keeping her watchful eyes ever alert, no matter

how much laden with sleep they may be.

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Questions:

1. How does a mother rule her subjects?

2. What does a mother do when a child is sick?

3. How does a child consider his mother as?

4. Does mother have any complaints?

5. What is the ambition of a mother in life?

Read the following passage carefully and answer the questions in your own words:

We certainly attach importance to industry, but in the present context we attach far

greater importance to agriculture and food and matters pertaining to agriculture. If our

agricultural foundation is not strong, then the industry we seek to build will not have a strong

basis either. Apart from that, the situation in the country today is weak that if our food front

cracks up, everything else cracks up too. Therefore, we cannot weaken our food front. If our

agriculture becomes strongly entrenched, as we hope it will, then it will be relatively easy for

us to progress more rapidly on the industrial front, whereas if we concentrate only on

industrial development and give up agriculture in a weak condition, we shall ultimately be

weakening industry. That is why, primary attention has been given to agriculture and food

and that, I think, is essential in a country like India at the present moment.

Questions:

1. What is present condition of our country?

2. To what do we pay much importance?

3. Why can‘t we dare to weaken our food front?

4. How can we improve our industries?

5. What is the central idea of the passage?

49

UNIT: 2

SIMPLE PASSAGES

1. Gardens

In the spring time almost every family thinks of its garden. We are in a garden-

minded people. Some of us have very small ones. Some live metropolitan fashion, in hotels

or boarding houses or flats and have no gardens at all. However they wish they had.

If you ask ―What have gardens to do with efficiency?‖ the answer is – ―They have a

great deal to do with it. Every one of us can learn much from a garden..‖ Efficiency is

founded on Science and Science began with the study of plants. It began in a garden.

By the study of plants, Darwin found the six great laws of Nature: Growth,

Reproduction, Inheritance. Variability, Struggle for life and Survival of the fittest.

He wrote his famous book – Origin of Species – and made these laws known. Then

after him, came other thinkers who showed that these laws could be applied to human life and

to trade and industry.

Twenty-one years later Taylor began to apply Darwin‘s ―Scientific Method ― to

manufacturing. Later, other men began to apply it to salesmanship and retailing and

advertising – to all the departments of business-building.

2. Winners versus Losers

The Winner is always an element of the answer;

The Loser is always a component of the problem.

The Winner always has a plan;

The Loser always has an reason.

The Winner says, "I will do it for you;"

The Loser says, "It‘s not my job."

The Winner seeks an answer for any problem;

The Loser gives for any problem a ready excuse.

The Winner says, "It may be not easy but it's possible;"

The Loser says, "It may appear achievable but it's easier said than done."

3. Total Self Confidence

1. I am capable and I have the capability to do whatever it requires to accomplish

something. I have mentality to support all those whom I love.

2. I take pleasure in life's challenges and I discover from everything that happens in my

life.

3. I live every minute with passion and power.

4. I believe I am strong and potent, cheerful, and thrilled.

5. I have tremendous confidence in my talents and my abilities.

6. I meet every state of affair trusting I am the master of the situation.

7. I admire myself and admire everyone I come across each day.

50

8. I would put my efforts to the best of my ability in all that I do.

9. I forgive others easily.

10. I understand the priceless value of my life and the lives of my kith and kin.

11. My confidence is steadfast as I live with integrity.

12. I am ever peaceful for I trust and follow my internal guidance.

4. Beginning

Every moment is auspicious to get on

Every beginning requires our optimism, our faith, our resolution and our

determination to perform a work.

Firstly we ought to make a decision. It should result with a commitment to daily self-

cultivation. We must have a sturdy link with our inner selves. Outside matters are redundant.

Single-handedly and unprotected, we must all our life's travels. Therefore, we alone must

make something of ourselves, transforming ourselves into the instruments for experiencing

the greatest success in life.

Once we take our decision, all things would come to us on their own. Promising signs

are not a superstition, but a confirmation. They are a response. It is believed that if you

choose to pray to a rock with trust and devotion, even that rock would come alive. Likewise,

once we choose to commit ourselves to do some genuine deed, even the mountains and

valleys will resound to the sound of our purpose.

5. Reflections Of The Sky Nation

New clouds were born to the Thunder-beings. The clouds anxiously ran to dance in

the blue playground of the sky. As a grandfather‘s gift, the puffy Cloud infants received the

glittering sunbeams, which acted like jump ropes from the Sun. The most inquisitive Little

Cloud moved off to talk to her Sacred Grandmother , the Mountain.

The little Cloud asked her Grandmother, ―Do you call for rain for your forests today?‖

She replied the little one, ―I shall check and tell you in moment.‖

Then the Sacred Mountain said that the forests needed no water that day as there was

any moisture. She added that however the little one could help them in another way. She

taught her to understand the thoughts and questions of the human beings. It was amusing for

the little Cloud to listen to them. The little Cloud captured the waves of human thoughts

rising from the Earth and coming through unspoken words the whole day and answered them

by shapes which were a series of ideas. The human beings linked the ideas and found the

solutions. However the little Cloud returned to the Sacred Mountain in the evening and shot

up her fear that caused her to have a heavy heart.

She said, "Grandmother Mountain, I've worked all day helping solutions to the

Human Tribe‘s problems, but now I have one very important doubt. How can we make them

to look up and pay attention to us?‖

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UNIT: 3

MORAL STORIES

1. THE NOBLEST DEED

Did you read the title.

Now go through the first paragraph.

Could you guess what this story is about?

Tick whatever you feel is right.

a. a wise father

b. sons‘ desire to earn the diamond

Once a gentle man called his three sons for a talk. He showed them a small

diamond and told them, ―This is the only property I possess. I wish to give this to the

one who proves himself to be noble. So you may go now and return after a week. You

narrate me your deeds during the week. I shall decide who the real noble man was. I

shall give the diamond to him. Now you disperse.‖

A week passed by. Each son took his turn to visit his father.

The first son began to spell what he had done. He said, ―Father, I couldn‘t bear

the sight of the poor suffering from no money to meet even their essential expenses. So,

I parted with half of my property to help the needy.‖

The father hearti ly appreciate d the action of the first son.

Then the second son started, ―As I was walking across a bridge, I noticed a small child

drowning in the rushing waters. I took no time to jump into the river and save the child.

The father said, ―Wonderful! You have risked your life to save an unknown child.

Good!

The third son spoke. "As I walking along a mountain path, I saw a man in a

sound sleep at the edge of a cliff. If he had turned in his sleep, he would have

rolled into the deep valley below.‖

He continued, "I immediately hurried and held him behind. The man woke up

with a jerk. He peeped the at the deep valley and was taken aback. Finally I learnt that

the man was my bitter enemy. Many a time, he had threatened to harm me.

However, I was very much contented that I had saved a life. I never regretted my

deed. Infact he felt guilty of his action. Now we, who had been the worst enemies,

are great friends."

"It is really the noblest deed", said the father. He added, "It may not be easy to part

with what you have but it‘s great some do it. Some value others‘ lives too. They love

others as they love their own selves. It‘s lovely!‖

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The father continued, ―Nonetheless, there are only few, very few, who respect

the enemies‘ lives too. Good! Many help the poor, and most would save a child but

few would risk their lives to save an enemy. The diamond is yours!"

.

Read the title and then go through the first paragraph

What is this story about?

Guess and tick the better answer.

a. a man and his possessions

b. a man training animals

Mani was moving to the village along with his ox and dog. All the three were

rushing against the scorching heat. They were already late. The ox was laden with

carved wooden bowls to be sold in the market.

As they were hurrying up, Mani heard a strange voice. It said, ―I‘m tired. I need rest.

I can‘t move any more with so many loads upon me.‖

Mani was taken aback. He asked, ―Who is it? Who dares to speak like this?‖

The dog said, ―It‘s ox! Why don‘t you understand that the ox can‘t carry such a

heavy load in the scorching heat!‖

Mani was shocked. This was the first time for him to hear an animal talk. He cut a

branch from a nearby tree to prod the animals along.

The branch cried, ―Oh! you are hurting me!‖ Mani was stunned. He threw away the

branch.

Again the tree shouted, ―Oh! What have you done?‖

Now it was the turn of the ox. It said, ''So you don‘t let me rest!‖

Mani found it difficult to believe his own ears. He ran to the village chief to report

the matter.

The chief listened to Mani but denied to believe him. He yelled at Mani to run away

from there. The baffled man left the place immediately.

The chief grumbled, ―What a man he was! He has spoiled my good day for nothing.

Brooding aloud, the chief was just getting settled upon his stool. The stool spoke

now! ―Everything is something and all have to be respected.‖

2. Everything is respectable

53

3. TIN LIZZIE

Read the title and look at the picture. What do you think this selection is about?

Tick the better answer.

a. automobile b. person

Mr. Reid and Mrs. Reid were waiting in their farmyard. Mr. Reid said to his wife, ―I

am planning to use the car for ploughing. Do you need to go to town today itself?"

Did you think the farmer was joking?

No. It was a fact. The car they owned was the one which could perform

various tasks. The car was very flexible. It could be fitted with tractor tires too when

required. Mr. Reid just replaced the car‘s rear tires with the tractor tires and hitched

the plough for ploughing the field.

One day, when he wished to make a visit to the forest, he jacked up the rear

and eliminated one tire. Running a belt from the wheel to his power saw, he began

to cut wood.

Mr. Reid used his car for multipurpose - to grind animal feed, to pump water, and to

run a sausage grinder.

Do you wonder what kind of car it is? could do all

It‘s a Model T Ford! Once, possessing a car was luxury. With the introduction of

the Model T in 190$, many could own cars. In fact the cost came down to just only

$400.

Driving the Model T wasn‘t much difficult. It was reliable too. During the early

19th century, when the driving couldn‘t be enjoyed on the rough and dirty roads, the

Model T was very easy to drive. The Model T could keep on going.

54

However, there was a disadvantage. It was noisy—very noisy. On account of

the noise it gave out, it was lovingly called the Tin Lizzie. Before another new

model car was introduced in the market in 1927, more than 15 million people

possessed the Model T car. Tin Lizzie backed the popularity of the first big-selling

car to be produced.

4. A WISE MOTHER

Read the title and first paragraph and guess what this story is. Circle the better answer

Q. a trip to market

b. learning to carry things

A young girl, the daughter of a milk man, was carrying milk upon her head and heading

to the market. She became a little excited and started planning for her prosperous

future. As she was strolling, she spoke to herself,‖ I shall sell this milk in the market.

I‘ll get a good amount of money. I‘ll buy a hen with it. The hen would lay eggs every

day. When the eggs hatch, I can sell those chicks too. All would buy chicks from me

and I would make a lot of money. What shall I do with that money? Yes, I shall buy

new clothes and adorn myself.‖

She continued to dream.‖ When I go out in new clothes, the handsome guys would

want to talk to me. When they crazily follow me, I would proudly lift my head up and

stare at them. Saying so, she tossed her head up forgetting the milk-pot upon her head..

The pot fell down and broke.

Sadly, the young girl with tears in her eyes walked home empty-handed

She narrated everything to her mother sorrowfully. The mother did not scold her. She

simply suggested her

"Never count your chickens before they are hatched."

5. Heaven & Hell

A soldier named Nanda Kumar came to Hathiram, a saint, and asked: "Is there really a

heaven and a hell?"

"Who are you?" inquired Hathiram.

"I am a samurai," the warrior replied.

"You, a soldier!" exclaimed Hathiram. "What kind of a king you have to have you as

his guard? Your face looks like that of a beggar."

Nanda Kumar became very angry and began to draw his sword out, but Hathiram

continued: "So you are ready to attack me and harm me. You have a sword! However

your sword can‘t cut off my head." As Nanda Kumar took his sword out, Hathiram

remarked: "Here opens the gates of hell!"

At these words, the samurai, making out the master's discipline, dropped his sword

down and bowed.

"Here opens the gates of Heaven," said Hathiram.

55

UNIT: 4

SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY

6. Lightning Has No Effect On Aeroplanes

Clouds are made of droplets and dust in the atmosphere at altitudes of 1 to 16km. Due to

friction, the water droplets moving in the air get electrically charged.

Lightning occurs due to sparkling between oppositely charged clouds- a high voltage spark

rushes towards the ground (at zero potential) through moisture-filled air.

If any ground based structure is on the path of the spark, the top of that structure is excited to

a high electrical potential while its bottom (in contact with the ground) remains at zero

voltage. This high potential difference sets a very high current in the structure causing sudden

heat generation in the material and destruction; but in flying aeroplanes, there is nothing like

a ground point which remains always at zero voltage.

Hence even if hit by a lightning, the plane‘s entire surface acquires the same high potential

and due to lack of potential difference there is no current and hence no destruction.

7. Why are engines fitted at the rear end in some vehicles?

Fitting engines at the rear side has many advantages. First, the weight of the driving wheels

(rear) is increased in slopes. This gives better traction through improved road adhesion.

As the propeller shaft is absent, chassis height can be decreased. Further, the front

portion of the vehicle is amendable to better designing and front axle construction can be

simplified. However this type has certain disadvantages. They are difficult to service, possess

decreased cooling efficiency and are not stable at high speeds.

In India, only the front engine with front axle drive or rear axle drive is preferred as they give

considerable ground clearance which is suitable for the road conditions.

8. How is a four-stroke engine of a two-wheeler more eco-friendly than a

two-stroke engine?

There are three major reasons for a four-stroke engine of a two wheeler to be more eco-

friendly than a two-stroke engine. The incoming air and fuel part in the two-stroke engine is

short-circuited directly through the exhaust port of the cylinder and is carried with the

exhaust gases. This pollutes the atmosphere. Nonetheless the design of the four-stroke engine

is different (there are valves(inlet and exhaust)

56

Scavenging is effectively done in a four-stroke engine than in a tw0-stroke. Scavenging

is a process of removal of burnt gases from the engine cylinder. If scavenging is not done

properly, the residual burnt gas that is inside the cylinder will be combusted again leading to

smoky emission in two-stroke engines.

The lubrication system of a two-stroke engine is different from that of a four-stroke

engine. In two-stroke engines, oil is mixed with the fuel (to provide lubrication for moving

surfaces such as piston skirt and roller bearings). It is subsequently carried into the

combustion chamber by the air-stream, where it is partially burnt and partially pushed

through the exhaust port, along with the exhaust gases. This results in smoky emission.

9. How is information stored in audio and video tapes?

Information is stored in audio/video tapes by magnetizing them. These tapes are

actually long, thin plastic films coated with a magnetic material, mainly iron oxide. Likewise,

the player has a recording head which consists of a coil of a wire around a circular piece of

iron with a small gap. Any current passing through the wire would produce a magnetic field

around it. Information (voice or image or any data) to be stored is converted into electrical

signals (by a microphone) amplified and fed to the recorder head. As the current varies in

accordance with the image or sound (input signals) to be recorded, it produces a varying

magnetic field.

When the tape is run through the small gap present in the recording head, the varying

magnetic field magnetizes the particles on the tape rearranged their moments in accordance

with the variation in the input signal. To reproduce the signal recorded, the tape is again run

past the recording/playing head which senses the magnetic field along the tape. This induces

a varying current in the coil. This current is simplified and fed to the speaker or TV to

reproduce the original message.

10. How are mummies made?

Mummies are embalmed bodies that have been preserved for thousands of years. The

dead have been mummified with the help of good drying agents applied all over the body.

Drying agents and other materials were stuffed inside the body to maintain its shape after

removing the internal organs. The word ‘mummy‘ is derived from the Persian word mummia

meaning bitumen because resin used for embalming the dead looked like bitumen.

Three techniques of mummification have been discovered by Greek historians. The

methodology was the same in all the three cases and the differences lie in the process of

extraction of internal organs. Mummies belonging to 1570-1070 BC are still found to be in

good condition. Actually in the process of mummification embalmers removed all the

internal organs except the heart and the kidneys. The brain was removed through the nostril

using a hook. They soaked them in natron (a mixture of salt, sodium bi-carbonate and sodium

carbonate). It was then bandaged and kept in jars. The internal cavities were stuffed with

linen bags of saw dust, natron bags and resin coated materials.

57

The nostrils and eyes were stuffed with linen rolls. Cedar oil, natron and purgatives

were then smeared on the body to close the pores. After this, the body was wrapped in long

sheets of fine linen. Toes, fingers and limbs were separately wrapped and then the torso was

wrapped up in several layers. A mask revealing the external features, made of pliable linen

treated with resin was fixed on the face. According to ancient texts a complete treatment

could take about 70 days. Though resin has burnt the skin of the dead body in many cases, the

hair seems to be intact.

11. How does a cordless phone work?

Cordless phone is based on wireless transmission and frequency modulation. The

main components of a cordless phone are the base unit and the portable unit. While the base

unit is kept at a fixed point connected to power supply and the working telephone line, the

portable unit can be carried to a certain distance, depending on the frequency range

limitation. Normally in India, the permissible distance is about 100 metres.

The base unit and the portable unit essentially consist of radio wave transmission and

reception devices which enable a two-way wireless communication between these units. The

radio waves are broadcast in the air through the antenna fitted to the units. Just like the

signals emanating from the telephone are converted to radio frequency in the transmission

side, the reverse side happens in the receiver side i.e. the radio frequency signals are

converted into original signals, bell or speech. Since the handset does not have any

connecting cord or wire, it gets the name ‗cordless phone‘.

58

59

UNIT: 1

LETTER WRITING - PERSONAL

The letters are classified under two types: They are

1. Informal Letters

2. Formal Letters

We write ‗informal letters‘ to our near and dear ones (parents, relatives and friends)

(unofficial)

We write ‗formal letters‘ to the third persons (official)

INFORMAL LETTERS

First watch the lay out of letter writing.

LAYOUT OF LETTE

(2 line from address)

(date)

Dear ----------,

(para 1)

(para2)

(para 3)

Yours lovingly,

(signature)

Address on the envelope

Address on the envelope

STAMP

60

Model Exercise:

1. Write a letter to your father describing your new college, your new hostel and your

new friends.

7; South Mada Street

Mylapore

16th

July, 2010

Dear dad,

Fine; hope to hear the same from you. Does mom still feel my absence?

How is Tiger? Is he normal in his diet. Are you regularly taking him to the vet?

Dad, I am very happy here. My college is very good. The lecturers are very friendly.

They make us feel at home. They give us all sorts of help. My friends at the college and the

hostel are really excellent. The food at hostel is bearable. In short, the condition here is

absolutely O.Kay!

Convey this to mummy. Ask her not to worry about me. I shall come home when I get

leave. My love to mummy.

Yours lovingly,

Venkat

Address on the envelope

2. Write a letter to your aunt enquiring her about her health.

52; Vivekananda Colony

Kanchi

27th

August, 2010

Dear aunt,

Safe and sound. I wish you are also hale and healthy there. How is uncle?

By the by, how is Kailash in his studies? Is he coping up with his new school?

Mummy told me that you have been suffering from severe knee pain. How is the pain now?

Did you go to doctor? What did the doctor say?

Take care of your health. Don‘t over-strain yourself. Don‘t neglect your health. I shall come

home next month. Convey my regards to uncle and others.

Bye! bye!

With love,

Sadana

Mr. Srinath

43; Manjunath St

Madurai

stamp

61

Address on the envelope

Write a letter to your friend suggesting him to take his studies seriously and not to be

lethargic.

61; Venkat Narayan Street

Hyderabad

25th

October, 2010

Dear Surya,

Sorry for not penning you for a long time. I was a bit busy with my exams. I‘m sure I‘ll be

scoring very high marks in the Semester Examination.

How about you? How is your studies going on? You were very careless of your studies at

school too. Now you are in college. Just passing in the exam will not be enough. We have to

work hard. Don‘t aim just to pass but aim to learn everything thoroughly. It helps you in your

higher education and in your work place.

Have I bored you? I shall meet you in the vacation.

Convey my regards to your parents and my enquiries to your sisters.

See you in the next.

Yours lovingly,

Seeta

Address on the envelope

Mr.Seshadri

52; Narayan Colony

Rameshwar

stamp

To,

Mr. Balaji

32; Chalapathi Colony

Bangalore

stamp

62

You do now:

1. Write a letter to your friend expressing how your new college is. Also include the

details of your new friends.

2. Write a letter to your mother telling her how your studies is going on at the college

and the hostel.]

3. Write a letter to your sister/ brother conveying that you are joining her/

him/ them shortly.

4. Write a letter to your friend inviting her/him for a marriage.

5. Write a letter to your uncle thanking him for sending you money to pay the college

fee.

6. Write a letter to your sister advising her to study well

7. Write a letter to your friend suggesting him not to take leave often.

63

UNIT: 2

LETTER WRITING - OFFICIAL

We write ‗formal letters‘ to third persons (official)

Note the lay out carefully:

LAYOUT OF THE LETTER

( 3 lines From address)

(3 lines To address)

Date

Sir,

Sub. :

Ref. :

(paragraph 1)

(paragraph 2)

(paragraph 3)

Thank you,

Yours truly,

To,

Name

( 2 or 3 line address)

stamp

To,

Mr.________

( 2 line address)

STAMP

(3 lines From address)

(3 lines To address)

Date

Sir,

Sub. :

Ref. :

(paragraph 1)

(paragraph 2)

(paragraph 3)

Thank you,

Yours truly,

(Signature)

Address on the envelope

To,

Mr.__________

stamp

64

1.Write a letter to your Principal requesting him to do the needful to issue you bonafide

certificate.

V.Venkatesh

DEEE - I Year, 2010 batch

T.T. Polytechnic College

Hyderabad

The Principal

T.T. Polytechnic College

Hyderabad

27th

July, 2010

Sir,

Sub. Requisition to issue bonafide Certificate.

I am a student of DEEE - I Year, 2010 batch. I thank you for having given me admission into

DEEE in your college.

Sir, I need to apply for an educational loan in the State Bank. I must produce bonafide

certificate.

May I request you to do the needful to issue me bonafide certificate.

Thank you,

Yours faithfully,

----------------------

2. Write a letter to your class teacher requesting him/her to approve you leave.

V.Venkatesh

DEEE - I Year, 2010 batch

T.T. Polytechnic College

Hyderabad

The Class Teacher

T.T. Polytechnic College

Hyderabad

27th

July, 2010

Sir,

Sub. Requisition to approve leave.

I have been down with fever for the past two days. I could not even attend my classes. I am

sorry that I could not inform you day before yesterday .

65

I request you to treat my absence on 1st and 2

nd of August, 2010 as leave.

I promise you that I will make up for the classes missed.

Thank you

Yours obediently,

-------------------

3. Write a letter to the Head of the Department of your company requesting him to sanction

you leave.

V.Venkatesh

7; Srinivas Nagar

Visakapatnam

The Head of the Department

ABS Limited

Visakapatnam

27th

July, 2010

Sir,

Sub: Requisition to sanction leave.

My sister‘s marriage falls on 21st August, 2010. I am the eldest of the family. I am yet to

make a lot of arrangements.

Hence, may I request you to sanction me 8 days leave i.e. 18th

Aug. to 25th

August, 2010. I

shall make alternate arrangements so that my absence will not affect any work in the

company.

Thank you,

Yours truly,

---------------

66

4. Write a letter of application applying for the position of an Electrical Engg. at Lucas TVS,

Trichi.

(Write the covering letter on one page and the Resume on the other page.)

V.Venkatesh

7; Srinivas Nagar

Visakapatnam

The Managing Director

Lucas TVS

Trichi

27th

July, 2010

Sir,

Sub: Application for the position of an Elec. Engg

Ref: The Times dated 18th

April, 2010.

I was happy to learn about the vacancies in your prestigious organization. I submit myself

for the position of an Elec. Engg.

I am enclosing my resume for your perusal. Please see the suitability and give me a favorable

reply.

I shall be awaiting your favourable reply. I shall attend an interview on any convenient day to

you.

If an opportunity is given, I can assure you my best endeavors towards the development of

the organization & service to the society.

I thank you in advance.

Thank you,

Yours truly,

---------------

67

RESUME

Name :

Age/ Sex :

Academic Qualification :

Technical Qualification :

Computer Knowledge :

Extra Curricular Activities :

Co. Curricular Activities :

Strengths :

Aim in Life :

Languages Known :

Work Experience :

Two References :

Name : 1. 2.

Designation :

Contact No :

Add. For Communication :

Signature

Address on the envelope:

`

To,

The Managing Director

Lucas TVS

Trichi

68

5. Write a letter to HCC Technologies inviting quotation for 75 personal computer systems.

The Purchase Manager

S.V.Group of Institutions

Bangalore

The Sales Executive

HCC Technologies

Bangalore

27th

July, 2010

Sir,

Sub: Inviting quotation for 50 personal computer systems.

We require 50 personal computer systems immediately for our organisation situated at

Sravana Belagola, Bangalore. The specification for the systems is furnished below.

Please pursue the same.

Specifications.

S.No. Description Quantity

1. Intel Core 2 Duo

75

Intel G31 Chipset

2 GB DDR 2RAM

160 GB SATA HDO

HCL Multimedia Key

Board

HCL Optical Mouse

DVD Writer

The payment will be done against the delivery of the goods. Kindly ensure that your

quotation would reach our office before 16th

August, 2011.

Thank you,

Yours truly,

----------------

(Purchase Manager)

Address on the envelope:

To`

The Sales Executive

HCC Technologies

Bangalore

69

6. Write a letter to HCC Technologies, Bangalore placing an order for

a lathe machine.

The Sales Manager

HCC Technologies

Bangalore

The Purchase Manager

Ananth Private Ltd.

Bangalore

05th

August, 2010

Sir,

Sub: Placing an order for a ‗lathe machine‘.

Ref: Your quotation letter no. 1372 dated 28th

June, 2011.

We are in receipt of your quotation. We are pleased with the same. You can go ahead with

the delivery of good at the above-said address.

Installation should be completed in the next two days of the arrival of the good.

Your payment through a single cheque will be settled soon after the installation work.

Prompt services will be appreciated.

Thank you,

Yours truly,

--------------

(Purchase Manager)

To,

The Purchase Manager

Ananth Private Ltd.

Bangalore

70

Attempt the following:

1. Write a letter to your class teacher requesting him/her to grant you leave for a week

to carry out and celebrate your sister‘s marriage.

2. Write a letter to the post man informing him the change of address and requesting him

to direct all your letters to the changed address.

3. Write a letter to the Manager of a bank asking for a cheque book.

4. Write a letter to your Principal complaining about some mischievous boys who cause

hindrance to your study.

5. Write a letter to a watch company ordering for an electronic wall clock to your

institution.

6. Write a letter to a scientific instruments company inviting a quotation for some

science apparatus for your college.

7. Write a letter of application to Royal Enfield, Sriperumbathur, for the position of a

Supervisor.

8. Write a letter to your Principal requesting him/her to do the needful to receive free

bus pass.

71

UNIT: 3

DIALOGUE WRITING

NOTE: Dialogue is a conversation between two or more characters

Listen to the following conversation carefully:

1. A conversation between a student and an office bearer at college.

Student : Sir, what are the different branches available at your

college?

Office Bearer : We have courses in Mechanical, Electrical & Electronics

& Computer Science.

Student : How much should I pay?

Office Bearer : It is Rs.10,000/ per semester.

Student : When is the last date to apply?

Office Bearer : You must apply on or before 10th

June,2010.

Student : Are hostel facilities available?

Office Bearer : No , we have no hostel attached.

Student : How much is the application form?

Office Bearer : It is Rs.300/.

Student : Here is the money.

Office Bearer : Thank you. I will issue you the form.

Student : Thank you!

1. A conversation between a son and a father

Father : Have you been to the college?

Son : Yes , dad! I have.

Father : Have you bought the form?

Son : No, dad! I haven't.

Father : When will you get it ?

Son : I will get it tomorrow. There was none at the college

this morning.

Father : Do not forget to get one tomorrow.

Son : No, dad ! I won‘t.

Father : Can you go by cycle?

Son : Yes, dad! I can go by cycle.

Father : Will you fill the application tomorrow itself?

Son : Yes, dad ! I will.

2. A conversation between a student and the Bank Manager.

Bank Manager : Yes , What can I do for you ?

Student : Sir , I am a student of TCS Polytechnic College. I wish to

apply for educational loan.

Bank Manager : Where are you put up?

Student : I am put up at Balaji Colony, Hosur.

Bank Manager : How much have you scored in Class X ?

Student : I have scored 89%.

72

Bank Manager : What is your father?

Student : He is a school teacher.

Bank Manager : Do you have bonafide certificate from college?

Student : No , I don't.

Bank Manager : O.K. You come with your mark list, address proof,

bonafide certificate and three photographs tomorrow.

I will do the needful.

Student : Thank you very much , Sir ! I will come tomorrow.

3. A conversation between two new students, Kiran and Keerthana.

Kiran : Hai ! I am Kiran.

Keerthana : Hello! I am Keerthana.

Kiran : From which school are you?

Keerthana : I am from St.Mary's.

Kiran : I know English only a little.

Keerthana : It does not matter.

Kiran : I may find it difficult to learn everything in English.

Keerthana : Don't worry. I shall help you.

Kiran : Thank you.

Keerthana : The bell has gone. Shall we go?

Kiran : Yes , we shall.

Practise the conversation now :

i. 1.A conversation between a mother and her son.

Mother : Do you like your new college?

Son : ___________________________ .

Mother : Are the teachers friendly?

Son :____________________________ .

Mother : Have the classes been begun?

Son : ___________________________ .

Mother : Did they give you any instructions?

Son : ____________________________ .

Mother : ____________________________ ?

Son : I must start to college at 7 a,m, tomorrow.

Mother :________________________________ ?

Son : We are working full day tomorrow.

Mother : O.K. Wrap your books and note books and have them ready for

tomorrows class.

Son : Yes, mom! I will.

73

2.A conversation between a bus conductor and a passenger.

Conductor : _______________________________ ?

Passenger : I want a ticket to Mylapore.

Conductor : How much is the ticket ?

Passenger : ________________________________ .

Conductor : ________________________________ ?

Passenger : I need three tickets .

Conductor : _______________________________ ?

Passenger : Sorry ! I have no change.

Conductor : Will you get it from me later?

Passenger : ________________________________ .

Conductor : Thank you.

Passenger : Don't mention.

3.A conversation between Neelema and Nithya.

Neelema : Did you watch the new film ' Aadhavan ' ?

Nithya : ________________________________ .

Neelema :When have you gone to the film?

Nithya : __________________________________ .

Neelema : Is the film tragedy or comedy ?

Nithya : ___________________________________ .

Neelema : ___________________________________ ?

Nithya : There was good stunt in the film.

Neelema : Shall we go to the same film tomorrow?

Nithya : ___________________________________ .

Neelema : Fine ! We shall meet at the theatre at six tomorrow evening.

4.A conversation between the Principal and a student,

Student : Sir, may I come in?

Principal : _______________________ .

Student : Good Morning, sir. I want bonafide certificate.

Principal : Why do you require it?

Student : ___________________________________ .

Principal :Have you brought a requisition letter?

Student : __________________________________ .

Principal :You come with a letter and I will sanction the same.

Student : ____________________________________ .

Student : ____________________ .

Principal : O.K.!

74

5. A conversation between the Class Teacher and a student.

Class Teacher : Why were you absent yesterday?

Student : ___________________________ .

Class Teacher : Why did you not get prior permission?

Student : ________________________________

Class Teacher : Have you brought leave letter?

Student : ________________________________ .

Class Teacher : Hereafter do not take without prior permission.

Student : ________________________________ .

Class Teacher :Do you know attendance carries marks? Don't take leave

any more.

Student : ____________________________________________ .

6. A conversation between two friends.

Shyam : Hai , Ram! How are you?

Ram : ________________________ .

Shyam : I am fine. How is your Class XI?

Ram : __________________________ . How is your Polytechnic Course

going on ?

Shyam : _________________________________ .

Ram : How many semesters should you work?

Shyam : _________________________________.

Ram : Is diploma course better or Higher Secondary better?

Shyam : _______________________________________ .

Ram : O.K. If we work with interest, both the courses are good.

Fine ! See you later, bye!

Shyam : Bye!

75

UNIT: 4

HINTS DEVELOPMENT

The idea behind this exercise is to develop the learners‘ writing skill.

This writing exercise promotes

i. Reading ability

ii. Comprehending ability

iii. Reproducing ability

iv. flawless writing ability

Read the following hints and the story that follows. Study carefully that you note every

development in the exercise:

1. A man hired an ass and its owner to carry goods – day very hot – they stopped on the

way – the man sat down in the shadow of the ass – owner demanded extra money – both

quarrel – unbearable the ass ran away – live and let live.

The Distressed Ass

Once a man was on a purchase of goods. He spent the whole day buying what he required.

The luggage was very heavy. So, he had to hire a donkey. The donkey owner accompanied

the donkey .

The man lived the other side of the desert. Obviously the man, the donkey and its owner had

to across the desert. As they were passing through the sandy desert, the heat intensified and

they found it very difficult to cross the desert.

They stopped a while on the way. However, they could find no tree nearby. The man thought

for a while. He noticed a shadow cause by the side of the ass. He immediately sat down in

the shadow of the ass.

The owner of the ass became jealous. He chalked out a plan to win the man. He then said,

―Friend, you have hired only my ass and not its shadow. If you want the shadow also, you

must pay for it.‖

―The shadow goes with the ass,‖ argued the man. ―So I have the right to use both of them.‖

The owner of the ass did not agree. They continued their arguments. Watching them quarrel

, the depressed ass ran away.

Moral: Don‘t be cunning in winning over the other. You live and also let others live.

2. A Raja on regular visits - meet his people – one particular visit - a beggar approached –

begged for alms – Raja asks - give me something first – the beggar annoyed – threw a grain

of rice – the Raja threw back a gold coin - rode away – the beggar sorry.

76

Attitude Matters

Once a King, who was not only mighty but also kind, lived in Varanasi. He was in the habit

of meeting his people personally and discussing the problems. He gave everybody alms

generously. People were very happy and proud of their king. One day he came across a

beggar. The beggar was delighted to see the king. He asked the king for something.

The king had a small desire to test the beggar. Hence he asked him what he would give him.

The annoyed beggar picked who was used to receiving but not giving threw a grain at the

king. The king too simply threw a coin at him and went away.

Later the beggar regretted for his action.

Moral: As you sow, so you reap. You get only what you give.

3. B.S.A. bicycle - new – presented by father – all parts brand new – pleasant to ride –

comfortable seat-gear good - chain wheel – well fixed – easy to pedal- flexible handle bar –

gentle to turn – perfect grips – bell sound apt – dynamo attached – light bright – enjoy riding

My New Bicycle

My father has presented me a new bicycle on my birthday. It is a B.S.A. cycle. All the parts

of the cycle are brand new. I enjoyed my first riding on it.

The cycle has a comfortable seat. The gear is good. The wheel-chain is well-fixed. It is easy

to pedal. It also has a flexible handle bar. It gives a good grip. The volume of the bell is

enjoyable with neither heavy nor low noise. It is also fixed with a dynamo light. The light is

very bright.

I feel proud while I ride the cycle. B.S.A. is my pride and my friends‘ envy.

Enjoy writing the following:

1. A lion resting in jungle – a mouse passes that way – fails to notice lion - rolls over

the lion – the sleeping lion wakes up - catches it – the mouse asks sorry – the lion

happy mood - excuses it – the lion caught in a trap – yells for help – the mouse hears

- cuts the net – the lion rescued.

2. A hermit offers prayers at river bank – see a scorpion – scorpion about to die -

drowning death – hermit saves – the same scorpion stung him on the fingers – again

scorpion in danger - the hermit again saves it – again scorpion stung - a man watching

the hermit got surprised – asks hermit – why? – hermit says – saving my nature –

biting it‘s nature. moral.

3. Androcles, Greek slave runs away from his master – enters forest -meets a lion –

the lion crying with pain – Androcles notices thorn in its foot – removes it - live like

friends – slave caught by the soldiers – goes to the magistrate – his punishment eaten

by lion – put before the same lion – the lion licks his hand – both released.

77

4.Man - on a night walk – by chance comes across a strange lamp – picks it up –

appears a strange spirit – spirit wears a cap and strange clothes – asks his wish – man

frightened – asks for sweets – good clothes – obey commands – man brings lamp

home – keeps it safely.

5. Larger of all land animals – used in tiger hunting – two kinds – India and Africa –

long trunks and large ears – strong – tamed to work for man – tusks hunted for ivory –

mahout – in old times – used in palaces and wars – feeds on leaves and grass – moves

in herds

6. Crow hungry – gets a piece of bread – sits and eats – fox passes by – looks crow –

feels jealous – thinks a while – greets sweet words – praises the crow‘s voice – asks

for a song – the cro

7. Ram, the scout - travelling – finds purse – sees a lot of money – searches address

owner - goes in search of the owner – hands over – rewarded.

8. Woodcutter cutting down a tree – in forest - axe falls into the river – prays to river

Goddess – the Goddess - brings gold axe – woodcutter says – no - the Goddess

brings a silver axe – the woodcutter says ‗no‘ – at last own axe – woodcutter happy

– rewarded for his honesty.

78

79

UNIT: 1

AN ASTROLOGER’S DAY __ R.K.Narayanan

The Author

R.K.Narayan was one of the celebrated Indian novelists. The characters in his novels

depict the real groups existing in the society. He neither exaggerates nor understates his

characters. They enjoy, laugh and undergo every state in life. The ones who struggle a lot in

life too would ultimately have their problems settled. By and large he winds up his novels

with a happy ending.

An Astrologer’s Day

R.K.Narayan‘s novel ‗An Astrologer‘s Day‘ describes the life of the middle-aged

astrologer created by him and also the day in his life on which he was the happiest,

absolutely feeling free from his guilt which he was suffering quite from his teens.

Childhood Pranks

The hero in the story wasn‘t a professional astrologer. He hailed from an agricultural

family. When he was in teens, like any other teenager, he was among a circle of friends.

Once, unfortunately, he was in cross with one of the friends called Guru Nayak. In a small

clash between them, he stabbed Guru Nayak and pushed him off into well. Later he was

scared of the consequences. He decided to abscond from the village. The hero ran and ran

until he was sure that he would not be traced out by any. He might have moved off some two

hundred kilometers from his village. Two hundred kilometers for a villager was something

like crossing an ocean. Then he thought of the ways to earn his bread. He knew nothing other

than farming. Nor had he room for it in the new town.

A Farmer Turning Into an Astrologer

The hero finally decided to practise foretelling. He became an astrologer. He dressed

up in the way that suited a professional astrologer. He smeared his forehead with sacred ash.

He also put a big bindi of vermilion at the centre. He grew long whiskers. He always covered

his head with a turban. He chose a bit of area under a big tamarind tree on the way to the

Town Hall. The place was filled with people all the time. There were many other traders too.

There were a few vendors too. People treaded upon this passage from dawn to dusk. Traders

had a good business here. Some of them had light settings too. However the astrologer began

his business in the afternoon and continued till night fall. He didn‘t set any separate lights for

his work area. He managed with the lights of the neighbouring shops.

The Successful Business Man

Though the selection of this profession was only a chance, in due course the

astrologer developed it through experience. At the outset he knew the basic problems of the

people in general. It is money or disputes or marriages, etc. He tactfully allowed the people to

talk for first ten to fifteen minutes. Learning the troubles of the people, he pronounced them

in his own style and also suggested those remedies. His appearance attracted the people most

of the times. People flocked like bees that were attracted to honey.

80

End of Mental Agony

One day, in the evening, he was about to close his business. A man just arrived stood

there. The astrologer wooed him to check his fortune. He told him about his charges. The

man was tempted and said that he would pay him well if he satisfactorily answered his

questions or else he had to pay him back with interest. The astrologer wasn‘t ready for such a

challenge. The man didn‘t spare him. He forced him to start the game. The astrologer

unwillingly settled down. The man sat down lighting his cheroot. The astrologer caught a

glimpse of the man‘s face. Something flashed his mind. He recognized that the man was none

else but Guru Nayak himself.

He blushed with happiness. He addressed him by his name. Guru Nayak was taken

aback. He sat confidently listening to him. The astrologer related the incident that had taken

place in his teens. Guru Nayak became more interested and enquired if he would be able to

find the culprit and take revenge on him. The astrologer convinced him that the culprit was

already killed in an accident. He also advised him to return to his village immediately and

never come that side again for a danger was awaiting him there.

Guru Nayak was happy that the rascal received the punishment he deserved. He thrust

the money into the astrologer‘s hand and vanished from the scene in no time.

The Happy finale

The astrologer returned home with a great relief in mind. He shared his childhood

story with his wife. His wife was delighted that she could prepare a special pudding for the

children with the additional allowance he had received that day. The astrologer went to bed

with the guilt off his mind and peace filled in the heart.

Glossary

astrologer Fortune teller

rescue Save / set free

former Previous / past

avenge Take revenge

cowrie shells Brightly coloured shells of small snails

babble Confused noise created by talking

obscure Difficult to understand

mystic Magical / supernatural

resplendent Splendid / dazzling

vermilion Kumkum

sparkle Shine / glitter

abnormal Irregular / unusual / strange

gleam Glitter / twinkle

client Customer

prophetic Predictive

enhance Improve / develop

whiskers Hair grown under the nose and on either cheeks of esp. male members

cosmos Universe / outer space

dahlia A large brightly coloured garden flower ,often shaped like a ball

boughs Branches of a tree

81

flank Side

surging People phasing up and down

junk Second hand goods / garbage

auctioneer A person whose job is to direct an action and sell the goods

din Noise

vociferousness Noise

ware Objects made of some material

flock Gather

flare Flame

enchant Charm / attraction

bewilder Confuse / puzzle

innocent Blameless

please Satisfy / make happy

astonish Surprise

deserve Merit / be worthy of

tilling Cultivating

ancestral Family / inherited

forefathers persons (especially men)in your family who lived a long time ago

disposed Organized / arranged

Saturn One of the nine planets

impetuous Impulsive / rash

endear To make somebody or something popular

endear To make somebody or something popular

shaft Ray

stray Wander away

paraphernalia Belongings / things

careworn Worried / nervous / concerned

grumble Complain / moan / protest

vague Unclear

thrust Push / force

piqued Annoyed / irritated

bluff Trick

cheroot A type of cigar with two open ends

glimpse Quick look / glance

disgorge Empty

incantation Prayer

haggle Bargain

bare Undressed

scar Mark / wound

overwhelm Overpower

enthusiasm Eagerness / interest

clench Tighten

fist To hold tight

groan Moan / cry out

pinch a small amount of something

swine Pig

pyol A raised platform in front of the house used for sitting purpose

gasp intake of breath

82

half-wit Stupid

dally Linger / hang about

tangles Twist / complication

perception Awareness / observation

forbidding Unfriendly / threatening

transact

Carry out

gamble Risk / venture

Questions to help you for better comprehension:

1. Describe the astrologer‘s appearance.

2. Describe the Town Hall where the astrologer ran his business.

3. What made the astrologer run away from his home?

4. Imagine and describe in your own words how the life of the man would have been

had he not become an astrologer.

5. Describe Guru Nayak‘s past.

6. How did the astrologer ensure personal safety at the end?

Answer in detail:

1. Present a character sketch of the astrologer.

2. Write the story of ―An Astrologer‘s Day‖ in your own words.

Annotate the following:

1.It was a bewildering criss-cross of light rays and moving shadows.

Source : An Astrologer‘s Day

Authorship : R.K.Narayan

Context : R.K.Narayan describes the place where the astrologer has his

business.

Explanation : The astrologer set his business under a big tamarind tree beside the

path that ran through the Town Hall Park. It was a right place for his

business because many people kept phasing up and down throughout

the day. There were other trades men too. However there was no

municipal lighting. Men used various lights for lighting up their

places. Some used hissing gas lights, some had ordinary light stuck

on poles and some had old cycle lamps. One or two, people like the

astrologer had no lights of their own but managed with the lights of

the others. The light rays that spread from various

lights was a feast for eyes.

Comment : The author brings before our eyes the entire market gala.

2.―Yes, in our village, when I was a silly youngster. We drank, gambled and quarreled badly

one day – why think of it now?‖

Source : An Astrologer‘s Day

Authorship : R.K.Narayan

Context : The astrologer describes his adolescence in his village.

83

Explanation : The astrologer was like any other teenager when he was in his teens.

He was with all pranks. One day, in a small duel with his friend, he

stabbed him and pushed him into the well. As he was scared of the

consequences, he ran away from his village and settled down as an

astrologer in a far off town. Since he knew no other job, he began this

profession by guessing things and slowly became skillful through

experience. So he didn‘t want to recall that bitter experience.

Comment :R.K.Narayan has a great knowledge of the life of the common

people.

Try Annotating the following:

1. The power of his eyes was considerably enhanced by their position – placed as they

were between the painted forehead and the dark whiskers which streamed down his

cheeks:

2. This colour scheme never failed.

3. People were attracted to him as bees are attracted to cosmos or dahlia stalks.

4. It was a bewildering criss-cross of light rays and moving shadows.

5. He had left the village without any previous thought or plan.

6. He had to leave home without telling any one , and he could not rest till he left it

behind a couple of hundred miles.

7. To a villager it is a great deal, as if an ocean flowed between.

8. He charged three paise per question, never opened his mouth till the other had spoken

for at least ten minutes, which provided him enough staff for a dozen answers and

advice.

9. Our friend felt piqued.

10. ―Here take your anna back. I am not used to such challenges.

11. ―Stop'‖ said the other. ―I don't want all that. Shall I succeed in my present search or

not?‖

12. 'Never travel southward again, and you will live to be a hundred'.

13. ―Why should I leave home again?‖ the other said reflectively.

14. 'He has escaped from my hands. I hope at least died as he deserved.'

15. 'The swine has cheated me! He promised me a rupee.‖

16. ―You look worried. What is wrong?‖

17. ―Do you know a great load is gone from me today?‖

18. ―Yes, in our village, when I was a silly youngster. We drank, gambled and quarrelled

badly one day – why think of it now?‖

84

UNIT 2 THE SUN, THE PLANETS AND THE STARS

- C. Jones

C.Jones, in his essay ―The Sun, The Planets and The Stars‖ presents a clear picture of

the solar system and the other objects in the space. The facts make the people wonder at the

creation of the universe. He also describes the formation of various worlds in the space.

The Solar Family

The formation of the solar family shows the sun at the centre and the earth move

round the sun. Hence the sun is called a planet of the sun. The sun is larger and heavier than

the earth. Our sun is a star and there are many other bigger stars too. There is a possibility for

some planets revolve round these stars. Another interesting feature is that stars have light of

their own but the planets possess absolutely no light. Hence they can‘t be seen through naked

eye. However they also like our sun gives light and warmth to their living creatures.

The Sun and His Children

The sun is 93,000,000 miles away from the earth. Yet it is the only sources of heat

energy. Life becomes impossible without the sun. The earth isn‘t the only child of the sun.

The sun has many other children too. Mercury, the nearest planet to the sun, is the hottest and

no human being can ever imagine to set his foot upon this planet. There are clouds, seas and

oceans on Venus, the planet next to the Mercury. Life may be possible here. The earth exists

next to the Venus. Then comes Mars, the red planet. It has two moons. Upon this planet

man‘s muscles enable him to perform thrice the amount of work he does on the earth.

The Jupiter, a Possibility for Living

Jupiter is also larger than the earth. This great red hot globe of vapour might cool in

the course of millions of years. Then this planet too may turn up to be a living world. The

planet Saturn too is larger than the earth. It is in fact a huge mass of gases and metallic

vapours. It‘s chief attraction are it‘s rings. They are probably composed of countless

meteorites. Saturn with it‘s ten moons and rings in addition is the most beautiful sight.

The Stars

Stars in the space can never be counted. The fact of the matter is that many of the

stars are out of sight. Maximum of only 1, 50,000,000 stars could be seen and that too

through a powerful telescope. The nearest star is at twenty-five millions miles away from the

earth. The other stars are still far away from the earth. This distance can be measured only at

the speed of the light travels. The distance navigated by light in one mean solar year is about

5880,000,000,000 miles. Suns are of different colours. This could be watched through the

telescope. True to the statement of the writer the universe is honestly more miraculous than

any miracle.

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Glossary:

1 precise Clear cut

2 Universe Earth and space

4 Starvation Hunger / no sufficient food

5 Philosopher A person who thinks deeply

about things

6 Diameter Width of a circular object

7 Perpetual Without being interrupted

8 Twilight Beginning of night / early

evening hours

9 Meteorites

Small bodies ,often bits and

pieces of comets , traveling

through space

10 Suspend disconnected

11 Halo Bright circle of light

12 Astronomer A person who studies about sun

moon, stars, planets, space.etc.

13 Adopt Take on / agree to

14 Dazzle Very bright

15 Light-Year

The distance traveled by light in

one mean solar year, about

5880,000,000,000 miles

17 Metallic Vapours A very high temperature

Discuss:

1. Name all the children of the sun.

2. Describe Mercury.

3. What common feature do Venus and the Earth share?

4. How are the Martians more advanced than us?

5. Describe Jupiter.

6. How is the distance in space measured?

7. Explain a ‗light year‘.

Composition:

1. How does C.Jones describe the universe?

________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________

2. Sketch the arresting information you received from the C.Jones essay ‗The Sun, The

Planets and the Stars‘.

________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________

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Annotation Passages

Explain reference with context:

1. Indeed, of all the planets, Venus is the one we should choose if

we make up our minds to fly to another world.

Source : ―The Sun, the Planets, and the Stars"

Authorship : C.Jones

Context : Speaking about the possibilities of living in the other planets, C.J ones

suggests us to opt for Venus.

Explanation : Mercury is nearest to the sun. Next, comes Venus. Venus has a thick, cloudy

atmosphere. The presence of seas and oceans on this planet may make life

possible here.

Criticism : With the proven technology, people would certainly plan to shift off to Venus.

2. A man on Jupiter who lives to a hundred will be well over a thousand earth years in age.

Source : ―The Sun, the Planets, and the Stars"

Authorship : C.Jones

Context : The author describing Jupiter, compares the life on the earth with the life on

Jupiter.

Explanation : The earth was once a red hot globe like the today‘s Jupiter. In due course the

vapour became cool and turned solid enough for the human to live on.

Likewise life on Jupiter too may become possible in some million years.

Criticism : The author is optimistic of living being possible on the other planets in

some million years.

3. So the universe is more miraculous than any miracle.

Source : ―The Sun, the Planets, and the Stars"

Authorship : C.Jones

Context : Sharing the views on the composition of the universe, the author exclaims a

great wonder at it.

Explanation : Stars in the space can never be counted. The fact of the matter is that many of

the stars are out of sight. Maximum of only 1, 50,000,000 stars could be seen

and that too through a powerful telescope. The nearest star is at twenty-five

millions miles away from the earth. The other stars are still far away from the

earth. This distance can be measured only at the speed of the light travels. The

distance navigated by light in one mean solar year is about 5880,000,000,000

miles. Suns are of different colours. This could be watched through the

telescope. True to the statement of the writer the universe is honestly more

miraculous than any miracle.

Criticism : The facts of the universe of its composition and other things make us agree

with the author that the universe is more miraculous than any miracle.

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4. One family is composed of three suns, the first of which is orange ,the second green and

4the third blue.

Source : ― The Sun, The Planets, and the Stars"

Authorship : C.Jones

Context : The author describes the suns existing in the space.

Explanation : C.Jones says that there are suns families moving round each other in the

space. One family is composed of three suns , the first one is orange the

second one is green and the third one is blue. The suns glowing with such

dazzling colours add charm to the entire space.

Criticism: The writer rightly says that the universe is more miraculous than any miracle.

Annotate the following:

1. What a wonderful thing it is to think that the sun is the source in some way

or other of all power.

2. The heat is the energy of the sun's rays stored up in the coal millions of years ago.

3. Sheep and oxen live on plants and green grass, which get their food from the sun.

4. If the sun ceased to supply this food, we, who live on flesh and vegetables and

other growing things, would die do starvation.

5. The earth is not the only child of the sun.

6. Yet so hot must be Mercury's coldest day that an earth-man die as soon as he set

his foot on this tiny world.

7. Venus is the one we should choose if we make up our minds to fly to another world.

8. Is there life on Mars?

9. What calendars the future people of Jupiter will need!

10. Eight hundred and eighty six million miles from the sun is another world in the

making.

11. These rings are bright belts surrounding the planet at a height of about 12,000 miles

above its equator.

12. No one knows how many stars there are.

13. Yet this star is nearer than most of the suns of heaven.

14. Thus, the light by which we see our nearest star left that star four and a

quarter years ago.

15. So the universe is more miraculous than any miracle.

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3. The Continuing Spell Of Ramanujan

- An extract from The Hindu of July 1987

Srinivasa Ramanujan, a boon to India

Srinivasa Ramanujan, a poor, uneducated Indian, born a hundred years ago, was one

of the greatest and most unusual mathematical geniuses who ever lived. Although he died

young, at the age of thirty two, he had left behind a collection of results. Those were never

appreciated then; but, of late, the world has begun to understand the value of them. None

could even imagine the way his mind worked. His is the example of inborn mathematical

ability. Ramanujan‘s work is not only a stimulus to mathematicians today but his number

theory and analysis take us a long way for the best understanding of string theory in Physics

and fast algorithms in Computer Science. It was G.H.Hardy of Cambridge University who

brought Ramanujan into the limelight. He describes him as a very great mathematician, full

of paradoxes and contradictions, who defies all judgment.

Early Life of Srinivasa Ramanujan

Ramanujan was born in 1887 in the town of Erode in southern India and grew up in

the town of Kumbakonam where his father was an accountant for a cloth merchant.

Ramanujan‘s mathematical education seems to have been gleamed from two books which

were especially considered to be not so good either on those or these days.

Completing the high school education, Ramanujan tried twice to pursue his college

studies. However, he had such a high flare for Mathematics that he could not concentrate on

any other subject. He held a small clerical position in the Madras Port Trust Office. He used

the wrappers of the packets at office to scribble down his formulae. He was so immersed in

his work that his young wife, nine year old Janaki, and his mother fed him at the meal time.

Ramanujan was twenty two years then.

A Turning Point

Sir Francis Spring was the chairman and S.N.Aigar was the Manager at Ramanujan‘s

office. Though they were alien, they were the ones who first recognized the mathematical

genius of Ramanujan. Infact they were the people who had advised him to write about his

findings to G.H.Hardy, English mathematicians of Cambridge University.

Ramanujan communicated to H.F.Baker and E.W.Hobson of Cambridge University.

He received his letters back without any comment. Then, he communicated to G.H.Hardy,

who actually reversed his destiny.

G.H.Hardy brought Ramanujan‘s mathematical theorems before one of his

colleagues. Though the formulae was presented without proofs, the working itself talked of

the intelligence of Ramanujan. Hardy took no time to invite Ramanujan to England.

Ramanujan in England

Ramanujan left for Trinity College, England in April 1914. He joined Hardy and both

of them worked together for three years. Hardy said that Ramanujan‘s intelligence or the

mathematical ability was a stiff challenge against the accumulated wisdom of Europe and

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Ramanujan was a proven wizard against anybody on the earth. The outstanding results he

derived in number theory were marvelous. Nonetheless Ramanujan‘s life in England was

disheartening. At the outset, as a pure vegetarian, he could not go with the food he could get

there. It was difficult to get vegetarian food there. He missed the members, who took care of

him in India. He gave primary importance to working than to eating or sleeping. He worked

round the clock. As a result his health began to get ruined. In May, 1917, Ramanujan suffered

from Vitamin B 12 deficiency caused by his poor diet. Then in 1919, he returned to India,

where he died a year later.

Ramanujan’s Contributions to the Mathematical Field

When Ramanujan was in England, he filled three notebooks with around four

thousand results stated with proofs. He also published a few papers which was a work done in

collaboration with Hardy. Some of the papers which were worked out when he was in India

were sent to Hardy. However these papers were never published. Though Ramanujan‘s

collections were incomplete, they have given researchers more than what they require to

work on. Researchers themselves agree that their new findings were the ones which were

once found by Ramanujan. Such was the greatness of Ramanujan‘s mathematical ability.

Glossary:

1 parallel Similar or corresponding

2 stimulus Giving motivation

3 relevant Relevant or significant

4 fundamental Basic or primary

5 algorithms

6 paradoxes To oppose within themselves

7 contradictions Disagree or oppose

8 defy Treat with disrespect

9 glean Collect together

10 obsess To preoccupy

11 colleague Co-worker

12 cram To fill up

13 collapse Fall down

14 mystery Beyond understanding

15 accumulate To increase / to gather

16 deficiency To lack / shortage

17 Incapacitated Made ineffective or unable to do anything

18 collaboration A team work

19 discovery To find out

20 invention To create

21 origin Starting point

22 legacy To inherit

23 aptitude Ability / skill

24. pitted Matched against

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Comprehension Questions:

a. How do you prove that Ramanujan was an innate mathematical genius?

_______________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________

b. Give a brief account of Ramanujan‘s early life.

_______________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________

c. What made Ramanujan send his findings to the Cambridge University of

England.?

_______________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________

Annotations

1. His is the example of inborn mathematical ability.

Context : This passage is taken from the lesson "The Continuing spell Ramanujan"

which is an extract from The Hindu of July 1987.

Explanation : Ramanujan‗s unusual mathematical genius came to the light very late.

In fact it was disclosed to the world only by the English

mathematician, G.H.Hardy of Cambridge University. Though he lived

only for a short period, his treasure, the mathematical results live

long. With no formal education, it is out of his flare for Maths , he

could emerge genius. The world appreciates his knowledge today and

also agrees that their today‘s findings were already the work of

Ramanujan.

Criticism : Ramanujan was a unique Indian who has brought name and fame to

the country..

2. He was a vegetarian which presented additional difficulties.

Context : This passage is taken from the lesson "The Continuing spell of

Ramanujan".

Explanation : On seeing the mathematical theorems and formulae of Ramanujan,

Hardy spared no effort to bring him to England. Together they worked at

Trinity College for three years and published several papers. Ramanujan

was successful, but life in England posed a great real threat to his health.

He cared more for mathematics than for eating or sleeping.

He was a vegetarian and it was difficult to get vegetarian food in

England. Soon he fell sick and returned to India in 1919. A year later he

died at the age of 32.

Criticism : Ramanujan's hard work, none to look after him in an alien land and

poor diet were the causes of his illness.

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3. For the next three years, he pitted his brains against the accumulated wisdom of Europe.

OR

Then on 16 June 1913, he wrote to G.H.Hardy of Cambridge University a letter that was to

change his life and Hardy‘s.

Context : This passage is taken from the lesson "The Continuing spell of

Ramanuj an".

Authorship : An Extract from the Hindu of July 1987.

Explanation : When Ramanujan sent to Hardy some of his mathematical theorems and

formulae, Hardy realized that Ramanujan was a real genius. He invited

him to England to study with him. Ramanujan was glad and left to

Trinity College in April 1914. Ramanujan proved himself to be smarter

than the Europeans. He derived outstanding results in number theory in

particular.

Criticism : G.H.Hardy of Cambridge University characterizes Ramanujan as a very

great mathematician.

4. He mailed many of these results to Hardy, but the papers were never published.

Contex : This passage is taken from the lesson "The Continuing spell of

Ramanujan".

Authorship : An Extract from the Hindu of July 1987.

Explanation : When Ramanujan died, he left behind three note books filled with

around 4000 results. He also left behind the findings he had done in

collaboration with Hardy. He mailed some of his discoveries during

the last years of his life to Hardy. However, they were not published.

Criticism : Though Ramanujan‘s collection is incomplete, it has given researchers

more than enough to work on. Very often mathematicians are finding

that their clever ideas were discovered first by Ramanujan.

5. In fact, the books were not good even in Ramanujan‘s day.

Context : This passage is taken from the lesson "The Continuing spell of

Ramanujan".

Authorship : An Extract from the Hindu of July 1987.

Explanation : Ramanujan gained his knowledge just from two books. These two

books were never prescribed to students of today or those days

for they were never considered to be good. As a matter of

fact books were no good even when Ramanujan was learning.

Criticism : Emerging from an unintelligible background, Ramanujan

stirred the world

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of British mathematicians in a manner unparalleled in history before

or

later.

For individual Check:

1. His is the example of inborn mathematical ability.

2. G.H.Hardy of Cambridge University characterises Ramanujan as a very great

mathematician, full of paradoxes and contradictions, who defies all judgment.

3. His entire mathematical education seems to have been gleaned from only two books.

4. In fact the books were not good even in Ramanujan's days.

5. He was so obsessed with his mathematics that he did not to stop even to eat.

6. Both urged Ramanujan to send some of his results to English mathematicians, who

might be able to evaluate them.

7. -------- a letter that was to change his life and Hardy's.

8. It did not take them long to realise that Ramanujan was a genius.

9. For the next three years he pitted his brains against the accumulated wisdom of

Europe.

10. At Cambridge, he derived outstanding results in number theory in particular.

11. He was a vegetarian, which presented additional difficulties.

12. He also left behind the papers he published in England ,many of which were written

in collaboration with Hardy.

13. But even if Ramnujan's collection is incomplete, it has given researchers more than

enough to work on.

4. On Saying ‗Please‘

- A.G.Gardiner

A.G.Gardiner, an ardent believer of human relationships

A.G.Gardiner‘s essays bring out the social conscious the author possessed. He drives the

message home in a convincing manner rather than thrusting them in the people. His focus

was on ‗reality of certain aspects‘ in life. He speaks on rules for life, behavioral qualities for a

friendly surroundings and self-consciousness for a receptive environment.

The Bond Strengthening Human Relationships

―On Saying ‗Please‘ ― emphasizes on using a few polite phrases like ‗please‘, ‗sorry‘ , ‗thank

you‘, etc. in day to day life for the smooth running of the existence. The author supports his

suggestions with a few anecdotes.

Once a lift-operator was very much annoyed with one of the passengers. The passenger, who

wanted to go to the top floor, told the operator ‗top‘ instead of ‗top please‘. The irritated

operator refused to operate the lift. In addition, he also pushed him out of the lift.

As a matter of fact we can only sympathize with the lift-operator but we cannot certainly

approve him of his behaviour. Equally we cannot blame the laws for there is no rule to punish

somebody for the ill-mannerism. In case a law permits somebody to punish an other for the

bad manners, then we would find the gutters run with blood every day. There may be many

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reasons for a person to be less gentle. For example, the passenger, who was impolite to the

lift-operator, might have been upset at home. His wife might have displeased him. His wife

might have been disturbed by the maid-servant and the maid-servant might have been

troubled by somebody else and so on.

The Second Episode from A.G.Gardiner‘s Life

A.G.Gardiner relates one more incident. On one occasion the author boarded a bus. Then he

found that he had left his money purse at home itself. He was worried very much. He had no

money to buy the ticket. He was literally penniless. He could pulse that he was going to be

bombarded by the conductor. In contrast, the conductor behaved very friendly. He gave the

author the ticket and said that he would collect the money from him when he met him the

next time. The author was wonder struck.

Then, one day, the author was again travelling by bus. He was seated. He screamed suddenly.

He was stamped by somebody. With great anger, he lifted his head up. To his surprise, the

author found him to be the same gentle conductor. When the conductor asked him if he was

hurt, the author simply replied that he wasn‘t. The author noticed the conductor to be polite

and gentle to every one.

The author is of the strong opinion that hard feelings, misunderstandings, quarrels and

misapprehensions among the people are due to the stern, uncompromising and unsympathetic

behaviour of the people. He also firmly believes that the wars between the countries break on

account of the same reasons.

Undeniable Fact

A.G.Gardiner suggests people to consider good manners as the unwritten rules of the society.

He is very particular in imbibing good manners in the people. He feels that even the saddest

person would feel much better with the good people around.

Glossary:

1 pseudonym Pen name

2 decade Ten years

3 edit To correct the errors

4 forte Strong point

5 complainant

The person giving

complaint

6 refuse To say ‗ no ‗

7 comply To obey

8 courtesy Good manners

9 assault Physical attack

10 battery continuous

11 burglar A house breaker

12 acquit Find not guilty / to set free

13 retaliate To hit back

14 violence Cruel behaviour

15 assailant The person who attacks

16 legislate

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17 scowl Make a face / to frown

18 gutters Drain

19 civil Polite

20 haughty Proud and arrogant

21 boorish Rude and ill-mannered

22 attune To adjust

23 laceration To cut or to tear

24 acutely Very severe

25 negligible Tiny or unimportant

26 slur To insult

27 shin

28 vanity

Of high self-importance

and arrogance

29 deny To disagree with

30 bully To frighten

31 insight

To understand what may

happen

32 anecdote A story

33 latter The last or the final

36 insolent Rude and disrespectful

38 morose

Sad, miserable and

depressed

39 decalogue

The ten Commandments of

Moses;

A moral code which

people, in general, must

observe

40 verdict The judgement

41 endorse Give your support to

42 intercourse To contact or to interact

43 resentment Anger

44 discriminate

To distinguish or to

categorize

45 rebuke To give a talking to

46 contrary Opposing

47 ordeal Trail or suffering

48 aggressive Very violent

49 annoy To drive one mad

50 knave A dishonest man

51 stale Not fresh or out of date

52 assume To take up / to understand

53 fare Money for the ticket

54 squared Settled

55 trample Walk on / walk over

56 agony Torture and suffering

57 countenance Tolerance

58 tread Walk

59 solicit Request for

60 infectious that is transferable

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62 uncouth To behave bad

63 descend Move down

64 gloomy To feel very sad

65 benediction To approve

66 lighten To feel less burdened

67 gaiety To feel happy

68 diffuse To disperse

69 drab Feel dull

70 apology Request for forgiveness

71 panegyric

Writing in praise of a

person

72 moor A grass land

73 leech

An insect that sucks off

blood

74 modest Being simple and humble

75 invoke Appeal to / call upon

76 affront To insult

77 restore To re-establish / bring back

78 elaborate Enlarge

79 revenge Vengeance / pay back

80 boor Fool

81 spiritual Religious / holy

82 commend Praise / speak well of

83 redress Compensate

84 attune To adjust

85 adverse To oppose

Discuss:

1. The law is reasonable and does not give room for violence of any kind.

2. Law does not recognize feelings. It does not guarantee politeness of behaviour.

3. Little courtesies improve the quality of life.

4. Civility fosters civility.

5. The experience of the narrator with the conductor.

Answer in detail:

1. How does the author prove that civility and politeness pave way for a harmonious life?

2. A.G.Gardiner has a special knack to drive the message home successfully. Substantiate

Annotations:

1. This, of course, was carrying a comment on manner too far.

Source : "On Saying Please"

Authorship : A.G.Gardiner

Explanation : Once a lift operator in a city office refused to operate the lift for the

passenger just said ‗top‘ and not ‗top please‘. He seemed to have not

minded even a physical assault but not bad manners. There may not be any

legal punishment for such discourtesies but good manners nurtures good.

Simple courtesies like‘please‘, ‗thank you‘, etc. enhances our relationship

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with the others in the society.

Criticism : A.G. Gardiner advocates a healthy behaviour for a healthy atmosphere

around.

2. We infect the world with our ill-humours.

Source : "On Saying Please"

Authorship : A.G.Gardiner

Explanation : Speaking about mannerism, the writer says that both bad manners and

good manners are equally infectious. As you sow, so you reap. We can

promote a pleasant atmosphere around with our pleasing behaviour while

through bad manners we only provoke anger and annoyance. The passenger

planted ill-feelings between them whereas the polite conductor nurtured

good relationship between him and the passengers. Though there is no hard

and fast rule to absorb courtesies, following them surely leads to lasting

associations.

Criticism: Unwritten rules do equal good as of written rules. A kind word is better than a

number of unkind or words that hurt.

3. If a burglar breaks into my house and I knock him down, the law will acquit me.

Source : "On Saying Please"

Authorship : A.G.Gardiner

Explanation : Once a lift operator at a city office was upset for a passenger said ‗Top‘

instead of ‗top please‘. He in fact threw the passenger out. He felt he

was right. The author feels that there are laws to punish a person if he

physically hurt somebody. However no law says that a person could be

punished if he hurt somebody by his ill-manners.

Criticism : The author feels that even though there are no laws to punish a person for

bad manners, bad mannerism is not approved by any ; in contrast, good

manners spells peace and harmony around us.

Annotate the following by yourself:

3. Discourtesy is not a legal offence and it does not excuse assault and battery.

4. But no legal system could attempt to legislate against bad manners or could sanction

the use of violence against something which it does not itself recognize as a legally

punishable offence. .

5. Our fists would never be idle and the gutters of the city would run with blood all day.

6. I may be as uncivil as I may please and the law will protect me against violent

retaliation.

7. I may be haughty or boorish and there is no penalty to pay except the penalty of

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being written down an ill-mannered fellow.

8. The pain of a kick on the shins soon passes away but the pain of the wound to our

self-respect or our vanity may poison a whole day.

7. Bad manners probably do more to poison the stream of the general life than all the

crimes in the calendar.

8. But all the same the law cannot become the guardian of our private manners.

9. And the first requirement of civility is that we should acknowledge a service.

10. But this type is rare - rarer than it used to be.

11. You are annoyed because you look like a fool at the best and a knave at the worst.

12. But where shall I send the fare?

13. But this fact didn't lessen the glow of pleasure which so good natured an action given

me.

14. He seemed to have an inexhaustible fund of patience and a gift for making his

passengers comfortable.

15. With old people he was so considerate as a son and with the children as solicitous as a

father.

16. What struck me particularly was the ease with which he got through his work.

17. His gaiety was not a wasteful luxury but a sound investment.

18. The polite man may lose the material advantage but he always has the spiritual

victory.

Suggested Reading:

NEW WAVES, AN ANTHOLOGY OF PROSE, Orient Longman Private Ltd., Bangalore

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