My Introduction
I am Raju Kumar Karki, the son of Mohan Singh Karki and Tulasha Devi Karki, and a permanent resident of Jitpur Simara, Ward No. 2, Mushaharnimai, Bara, Nepal.
I have been serving as a lecturer at Simara College since 2074 BS, where I teach English to BBS students in the morning and to Master’s degree students in the evening. In addition to my academic role, I am the owner and principal of Brighter Academy, one of the leading private boarding schools in Simara. As the principal, I am committed to providing quality education and nurturing the growth of students at the institution.
My leadership extends beyond education. I serve as the President of the Bara PABSON (Private and Boarding Schools’ Organization Nepal) and the President of the NSSF (National Schools Sports Federation) of Bara. Additionally, I hold the position of Chairman at the Mauwadevi Saving and Credit Cooperative, located in Jitpur Simara Sub Metropolitan City-18.
Through my efforts in these various sectors, I am dedicated to improving the quality of education, enhancing the economic conditions of the local community, and promoting sports at the school level. My work is guided by a deep commitment to the development of this region and its people.
great 👍
ReplyDeleteSir, your dedication to education, leadership, and community development is truly inspiring. Your contributions to both the academic and social sectors are commendable and deeply appreciated.
ReplyDelete
ReplyDeleteAn Essay about Superstition in 250 words.
**Superstitions in My Community**
Superstitions are as old as mankind. The earliest humans, who lacked scientific knowledge, easily fell prey to superstitions. Illiteracy and a lack of reasoning ability and knowledge continue to be the main sources that generate and spread superstitions.
Mahatma Buddha was likely the first great figure to explain the importance of reason, which helped eliminate superstitions. He stressed that beliefs should be studied, tested, and judged thoroughly before being accepted. Later, other great thinkers like Guru Nanak and Kabir also urged people to avoid superstitions.
Some may confuse faith with superstition. However, if we think carefully, we’ll see the difference. Faith is a positive force, while superstition is a negative one.
In the past, superstition was widespread in villages. People commonly believed in ghosts. They thought ghosts appeared only at night, visible to some and invisible to others. Clever people took advantage of this by pretending to control ghosts and using tricks to deceive villagers. Sadly, even today, such people exist.
There are many kinds of superstitions still present in our community. People consider the twitching of eyes, a cat crossing the path, or encountering a Brahmin as bad omens. On the other hand, the cawing of a crow is believed to signal a guest’s arrival. Meeting a sweeper early in the morning is considered lucky.
We should aim to develop a scientific mindset and evaluate everything through reasoning.
ReplyDelete**Film Review: *The Pursuit of Happyness***
*Reviewed by: [Your Name]*
**Introduction:**
*The Pursuit of Happyness* is a powerful biographical drama directed by Gabriele Muccino and starring Will Smith. The film is based on the real-life story of Chris Gardner, a struggling salesman who becomes homeless with his young son but never gives up on his dreams.
**Plot Summary:**
The story follows Chris Gardner as he invests his savings in portable bone-density scanners, which he tries to sell to doctors. However, sales are low, and his wife leaves him. Left with his son and no income, Chris faces many hardships, including living in shelters and sleeping in public restrooms. Despite all odds, he secures an unpaid internship at a brokerage firm, hoping it will lead to a better future.
**Characters and Acting:**
Will Smith gives an outstanding performance as Chris Gardner, capturing both his emotional struggle and determination. His real-life son, Jaden Smith, plays Christopher Jr., adding a genuine father-son chemistry to the film.
**Cinematography and Direction:**
The direction is heartfelt and inspiring, with scenes that reflect the harsh realities of poverty without being overly dramatic. The use of close-up shots effectively conveys the characters' emotions.
**Themes:**
The film highlights themes of perseverance, hope, and the importance of never giving up. It also sheds light on homelessness and the challenges of single parenting.
**Conclusion and Rating:**
Overall, *The Pursuit of Happyness* is an emotional and inspiring film that teaches the value of hard work and resilience. I would highly recommend it to anyone looking for motivation in difficult times.
ReplyDelete**Book Review Format**
Introduction: Provide the title of the book, the author’s name, place of publication, publisher, publication date, total number of pages, and specify whether the book is fiction or nonfiction.
Author’s Background: Include a brief profile of the author, highlighting their place in the literary world or area of expertise, and mention any notable contributions they have made to literature.
Summary and Plot: Summarize the main storyline or content of the book.
Themes and Writing Style : Discuss the central themes addressed in the book and describe the author’s writing style.
Reviewer’s Impression and Evaluation : Share your personal opinion and critical assessment of the book, including its strengths and weaknesses.
ReplyDeleteTo
The Editor,
Gorkhapatra Daily,
Kathmandu, Nepal.
Rising People's Movement Due to Frustration with Traditional Political Parties
Sir/Madam,
Through the columns of your esteemed newspaper, I would like to draw the attention of concerned authorities and fellow citizens towards a growing unrest among the people of Nepal due to the continuous failure of traditional political parties to address national issues.
The people of Nepal had great hopes after the democratic movements and the establishment of the republic. However, over the years, old political parties have repeatedly failed to deliver good governance, ensure development, and maintain transparency. Corruption, power struggles, and broken promises have become common traits of these parties.
As a result, the youth and general public are increasingly losing trust in the existing leadership. This frustration is now visible in the form of new people's movements, protests, and the rise of alternative political voices. These movements reflect the people's demand for change, accountability, and visionary leadership.
It is high time that the old political parties reflected on their actions and reconnected with the people's real needs and aspirations. Otherwise, the growing dissatisfaction may take a more radical turn, further destabilizing the country.
I hope this letter encourages a healthy dialogue among political leaders, civil society, and citizens for a better and more just Nepal.
Yours sincerely,
Your Name
Your Addres
ReplyDeleteTo
The Editor,
[Name of the Newspaper],
[City].
Subject: [Write the subject of the letter briefly]
Sir/Madam,
Through the columns of your esteemed newspaper, I would like to draw the attention of the concerned authorities and the general public towards \[mention the issue/topic briefly].
[In this paragraph, explain the issue in detail. You can include facts, examples, and your personal views.]
[In the concluding paragraph, suggest possible solutions or request action. Keep it polite and constructive.]
I hope my concern will be highlighted through your newspaper to create awareness and bring change.
Thanking you,
Yours sincerely,
Rahul Yadav
Jitpursimara Sub-metropolitan city
ReplyDeletePress Release Format
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
(or “Embargoed Until \[date/time]” if it’s not to be released yet)
Headline:
Write a clear, catchy headline that summarizes the main news.
Subheadline (optional):
A short sentence that adds more detail or context to the headline.*
Dateline:
City, Country – Date (e.g., Simara, Nepal – May 6, 2025)*
First Paragraph (Lead):
Answer the 5Ws: Who, What, When, Where, and Why. This paragraph should provide the most important information.*
Second Paragraph (Details):
Give more background, context, or details. Include quotes from key people (like organizers, principals, or officials).
Third Paragraph (Additional Info)
Add supporting information like goals, outcomes, or future plans.*
Contact Information:
Name
Title/Organization
Phone Number
Email Address
Website
ReplyDeleteSummary Format
1. Title: (Write the title of the paragraph or story)
2. **Author: (Mention the author's name if known)
3. **Main Characters: (List the main characters involved)
4. **Setting: (Where and when the story happens)
5. **Main Idea: (Write the central theme or message)
6. Important Events / Plot: (List the key events in brief, in order)
7. Conclusion / Ending
(How the story ends)
8. Moral / Lesson (if any)
(Write the moral or lesson learned)
ReplyDeleteBook Review: Mina Madan
Author: Laxmi Prasad Devkota
Genre: Epic Poetry
Language:Nepali
Mina Madan* is one of the most celebrated epics in Nepali literature, written by the great poet Laxmi Prasad Devkota. It is a touching and powerful narrative that combines love, sacrifice, patriotism, and social justice. Written in *jhyāure chhanda* (folk verse), the poem is both lyrical and emotionally deep.
Summary:
The story revolves around Madan, a common man who travels to Lhasa, Tibet, in search of wealth, leaving behind his beloved wife Mina. His journey is filled with hardship. On his return, he falls ill and is abandoned by his friends. Surprisingly, a poor man from a so-called "low caste" saves his life. Meanwhile, back home, Mina dies heartbroken waiting for Madan. When Madan returns and learns of her death, he realizes the futility of wealth without love and family.
Themes:
1. **Love and Devotion:** Mina’s pure love and loyalty to her husband is deeply moving.
2. **Social Injustice:** The epic challenges caste discrimination when a so-called low-caste man shows humanity.
3. **Materialism vs. Humanity:** Madan learns that money is worthless without loved ones.
4. **Nationalism and Realism:** Devkota speaks for the common Nepali and highlights social issues.
Language and Style:
Devkota uses simple yet powerful language, making the poem accessible to all. The rhythmic folk style adds to its beauty and memorability. His poetic expressions are rich in emotion and philosophy.
Conclusion:
*Mina Madan* is not just a love story but a mirror to Nepali society. It teaches moral values, questions social evils, and upholds humanity. It remains timeless and relevant, making it a must-read for all lovers of literature.
paragraph on the topic The Importance of Time Management for Students followed by a summary.
ReplyDeleteParagraph (Approx. 500 words):
Time management is one of the most essential life skills, especially for students who must balance academics, extracurricular activities, personal responsibilities, and leisure. The ability to use time wisely can significantly influence a student's success, both in school and in life. Students often face deadlines, assignments, exams, and other academic challenges that demand proper planning and scheduling. Without effective time management, students may feel overwhelmed, procrastinate, or fail to complete tasks on time, which can affect their academic performance and mental health. On the other hand, those who manage their time effectively can complete their work more efficiently, reduce stress, and have more time to engage in hobbies, rest, or socialize.
Good time management begins with setting clear goals and priorities. Students should identify what tasks are urgent and important, and allocate their time accordingly. Creating a daily or weekly timetable helps in organizing study hours, breaks, and other activities in a structured way. It’s important to avoid distractions such as excessive use of mobile phones or social media, which often consume valuable time without providing much benefit. Staying focused during study sessions, using techniques like the Pomodoro method or time-blocking, and breaking larger tasks into smaller, manageable parts can help students stay on track and motivated.
Furthermore, time management builds discipline and a sense of responsibility. When students learn to stick to a routine, they are more likely to complete tasks independently and develop a sense of achievement. This not only improves academic results but also boosts confidence and self-esteem. Time management also teaches students the value of punctuality, commitment, and organization—qualities that are highly appreciated in both higher education and professional life. In the long run, students who master time management are better prepared to face real-world challenges where deadlines, efficiency, and productivity are key.
Another crucial aspect of time management is flexibility. While it's important to have a schedule, it should not be too rigid. Unexpected events or challenges may arise, and students must learn how to adapt and make adjustments. This balance between structure and flexibility helps develop resilience and problem-solving skills. Also, proper time management allows room for relaxation and recreation, which are vital for maintaining good mental and physical health. Overworking or over-planning without breaks can lead to burnout, which defeats the purpose of being productive.
In conclusion, time management is not just a skill but a habit that every student should develop to lead a balanced, successful, and fulfilling life. It empowers students to achieve their goals, overcome academic stress, and prepare for the future with confidence. Schools and teachers can play a supportive role by guiding students with tools, strategies, and regular reminders about its importance. Ultimately, when students learn to value and manage their time well, they are better positioned to make the most of their education and life.
Summary
Time management is a vital skill for students to succeed academically and personally. It involves setting priorities, avoiding distractions, staying disciplined, and balancing work with rest. Effective time management reduces stress, boosts confidence, and prepares students for future responsibilities. By adopting good time management habits, students can lead more organized, productive, and balanced lives.
Raju Kumar Karki
One event I always remember is the day I received my school graduation certificate. It was a moment filled with pride and happiness, not only for me but also for my family. I had worked hard throughout the year, and standing on the stage to receive the certificate felt like a great reward. The auditorium was filled with cheerful applause, and the principal congratulated each student personally, which made the moment even more special.
ReplyDeleteWhat made the day even more memorable was the presence of my parents, who had supported me every step of the way. I could see the joy and pride in their eyes, and it gave me a sense of accomplishment. After the ceremony, we clicked many photographs with friends and teachers. Everyone was dressed in their best, and there was a festive feeling all around. We shared laughter, stories, and snacks, making the day full of smiles and sweet memories.
That event left a lasting impression on me because it marked the end of one important chapter and the beginning of another. It taught me the value of hard work and the happiness of achieving a goal. Whenever I feel discouraged, I think back to that day, and it motivates me to keep going. It was not just a celebration of academic success, but also a reminder that dedication and effort always lead to beautiful results.
To
ReplyDeleteThe Mayor,
Your Sub-Metropolitan City Name
City Address
Subject: Suggesting Initiatives to Promote Physical Fitness and Healthy Lifestyle
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to suggest some initiatives to promote physical fitness and a healthy lifestyle among the residents of our sub-metropolitan city. In today’s fast-paced life, people are increasingly neglecting their health, leading to lifestyle-related diseases. It is crucial that our local government takes steps to encourage healthy habits in the community.
I propose organizing weekly fitness events such as morning yoga sessions in public parks, health awareness camps, and regular cycling or walk-to-school campaigns. Establishing outdoor gyms and improving walking tracks can also motivate people to engage in daily physical activity. Furthermore, collaborating with local schools to include fitness challenges and health education can instill lifelong habits in children.
Such programs will not only improve the health of our citizens but also reduce the burden on healthcare services. A healthy community leads to a more productive and vibrant city. I hope you will consider these suggestions for the betterment of our society.
Sincerely,
Rashi Chaudhary
Jitpursimara-2
2082/01/25
ReplyDelete1. Write an email as the Department Head of Humanities inviting all faculty members to attend the first workshop on “Leadership in Academia”, including all the necessary details.
To: All Faculty Members
From:Head, Department of Humanities
Subject: Invitation to Attend Workshop on “Leadership in Academia”
Dear Faculty Members,
I hope this message finds you well.
I am pleased to inform you that the Department of Humanities is organizing its first workshop titled “Leadership in Academia”. The purpose of this workshop is to enhance leadership skills, promote academic collaboration, and foster professional development among faculty members.
Date: Monday, May 20, 2025
Time:10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Venue:Seminar Hall, Humanities Block
Facilitator: Raju Kumar Karki(Leadership Expert)
Your presence and active participation will greatly enrich the session. Kindly confirm your attendance by May 15, 2025.
Looking forward to your positive response.
Warm regards,
Arman Singh
Head, Department of Humanities
Brighter College
ReplyDelete1.Write a travelogue based on your own experience of a place you visited recently during a two-day trip.
A Two-Day Trip to Pokhara
Last month, I went on a two-day trip to Pokhara with my friends. It was one of the most memorable journeys of my life. We started our journey early in the morning from Simara. The long drive through hills, forests, and small villages was breathtaking. By late afternoon, we reached Pokhara and checked into a hotel near Lakeside.
On the first day, we visited Phewa Lake. The calm water and the reflection of the Annapurna range made the view heavenly. We enjoyed boating and clicked many pictures. In the evening, we explored the Lakeside market, tried local food, and watched cultural performances.
The next day, we woke up early and went to Sarangkot to see the sunrise. Watching the golden rays hit the snow-capped mountains was magical. Later, we visited Davis Falls and the Gupteshwor Cave. Both were thrilling and added excitement to our journey.
By evening, we started our journey back home, feeling refreshed and happy. The trip not only gave us a break from daily life but also strengthened our bond of friendship. It was an experience I will never forget.
format for writing a travelogue
ReplyDeleteTitle
(A catchy or descriptive title related to your journey)
1. Introduction
* Purpose of the travel
* Destination(s)
* Date and duration
* Travel companions (if any)
2. Preparation
* Packing and planning
* Tickets, documents, itinerary
* Expectations or excitement
3. Journey
* Mode of transportation
* Travel experience (road, flight, train, etc.)
* First impressions
4. Places Visited
* Description of major attractions
* Local food, people, and culture
* Unique experiences or incidents
* Activities done (hiking, boating, sightseeing, etc.)
5. Challenges Faced
*Weather issues, health, language, etc.
How you handled them
6. Conclusion/Reflection**
* Memorable moments
* Lessons learned
* Would you recommend this trip to others?
Final thoughts.
Idioms and Phrases
ReplyDelete1. Decked up – Dressed in special or fancy clothes to look particularly attractive.
2. Doing the rounds – Being circulated or passed from one person to another.
3. Between the cup and the lips – Very close to achieving something, but not quite there.
4. A damp squib– A complete disappointment or failure.
5. Put off – To postpone or delay doing something, often because of reluctance.
6. A dime a dozen – Extremely common and easy to obtain.
7. Cast-iron stomach – The ability to eat anything without experiencing discomfort or illness.
8. A mare’s nest– A mistaken belief or a false discovery.
9. Takes a beating– To suffer damage or criticism due to poor performance.
10. A chip on your shoulder – Holding a grudge or being easily angered due to a past grievance.
11. A toss-up– A situation with an uncertain outcome, where either result is equally possible.
12. An iron hand– Using strict or forceful control.
13. A taste of your own medicine – Experiencing the same negative treatment you have given to others.
ReplyDelete14. At the drop of a hat– Ready to do something instantly
15. A man of straw– A person with no strength or real influence
16. Bite your tongue– To stop yourself from speaking
17. An eyewash– Something that is fake or a deception
18. At sixes and sevens– In a state of confusion or disagreement
19. Bite off more than you can chew– Take on a task that is too big to manage
20. Can’t cut the mustard – Not good enough to succeed or take part
21. Call a spade a spade – Speak honestly and directly
22. Don’t count your chickens before they hatch– Don’t assume success before it actually happens
23. Dog days of summer – The hottest period during the summer
24. Ever and anon – Occasionally or from time to time
25. Field day – A day full of fun and enjoyment
26. Bits and pieces – Small items or fragments of various kinds
27. Kick the bucket – To die
28. Know the ropes– To be familiar with how something works
29. Latin and Greek – Hard or impossible to understand
ReplyDeletePress Release
Date:[Insert Current Date]
From: Office of the Executive Director
Rubar's Multi-Store Department**
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**
Rubar's Multi-Store Launches New Affordable Jeans Collection for All Ages
Rubar's Multi-Store Department is proud to announce the grand launch of our latest clothing line—"Rubar's Denim Wear"**, a brand-new collection of high-quality jeans designed for people of all age groups. This exciting new range combines comfort, style, and durability at a price every customer can afford.
Available now at all Rubar's store locations, our new denim line comes in a variety of styles, sizes, and colors to suit the diverse preferences of our valued customers—from toddlers to seniors. With this launch, we aim to bring fashion within everyone’s reach without compromising on quality.
As the Executive Director of Rubar's Multi-Store Department, I warmly invite our loyal customers and new shoppers to visit our stores and experience the fresh new look of affordable fashion. We believe this addition will further strengthen our commitment to offering the best value and variety in the market.
Thank you for continuing to trust Rubar’s. We look forward to welcoming you to our stores!
For further details, contact:
Customer Care Desk: [Insert contact number]
Email: [Insert email address]
Website: [Insert website URL]
Rubar's Multi-Store Department — Fashion for Every Generation.
ReplyDelete1.Write a job application letter for the post of an accountant in a reputed bank. Mention your CV too.
2.Write a news story to be published in a newspaper about drug abuse among teenagers.
1. Job Application Letter for the Post of an Accountant**
To
The Manager,
\[Bank Name],
\[Bank Address].
Subject:Application for the post of an Accountant
Dear Sir/Madam,
With reference to your advertisement published in \[Newspaper Name] on \[Date], I would like to apply for the post of an accountant in your reputed bank. I have completed my Bachelor's degree in Business Studies with specialization in Accounting and have two years of experience working as a junior accountant at XYZ Company. I am skilled in Tally, Excel, and other accounting software.
I have attached my CV with this letter for your kind consideration. I shall be grateful if you give me an opportunity to face the interview and prove my capability.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Yours sincerely,
Your Name]
[Contact Number]
[Email Address]
Curriculum Vitae (CV):
Name:[Your Name]
Address:[Your Address]
Phone:[Your Phone Number]
Email:[Your Email]
Date of Birth:[Your DOB]
Nationality:** \[Your Nationality]
Education:
* Bachelor’s in Business Studies – [University Name] – [Year]
Experience:
* Junior Accountant, XYZ Company – 2 years
Skills:
Tally, Excel, MS Office, Accounting Principles References:** Available upon request
2. News Story about Drug Abuse Among Teenagers**
Title:Rising Drug Abuse Among Teenagers Alarms Society*
Kathmandu, May 14 – Drug abuse among teenagers has become a growing concern in Nepal. Recent surveys and reports have shown a sharp increase in the number of young individuals addicted to various substances, especially in urban areas.
Experts say that peer pressure, lack of parental guidance, and easy access to drugs are the major causes behind this trend. Schools and colleges have also reported increasing incidents of students being caught using or carrying drugs.
Authorities and NGOs have been working together to raise awareness about the harmful effects of drug use. Campaigns, seminars, and counseling sessions are being conducted, but a stronger commitment is still needed from families, schools, and the government.
If this issue is not addressed promptly, it could lead to a severe crisis among the youth, affecting the nation’s future.
ReplyDeleteप्रश्न:निम्न सूचकाङ्कहरूका आधारमा HDI को मान निकाल्नुहोस्:
* नेपालको औसत आयु: ७०.२ वर्ष
* विश्वको न्यूनतम औसत आयु: २० वर्ष
* विश्वको अधिकतम औसत आयु: ८५ वर्ष
* नेपालको शैक्षिक सहभागिता वर्ष: १२.५ वर्ष
* विद्यालय पठन पाठनको अपेक्षित सहभागिता वर्ष: १३.५ वर्ष
* विश्वको न्यूनतम शैक्षिक सहभागिता वर्ष: ० वर्ष
* विश्वको अधिकतम शैक्षिक सहभागिता वर्ष: १८ वर्ष
* नेपालको प्रतिव्यक्ति आय: ४,५५० अमेरिकी डलर
* विश्वको न्यूनतम प्रतिव्यक्ति आय: १०० अमेरिकी डलर
* विश्वको अधिकतम प्रतिव्यक्ति आय: ७५,००० अमेरिकी डलर
उत्तर दिनुहोस्: माथिका विवरण प्रयोग गरी नेपालको HDI को मान गणना गर्नुहोस्।
ReplyDeleteCase Study Title: Poor Communication Leads to Project Failure
Background:
ABC Pvt. Ltd. is a mid-sized IT company based in Kathmandu. It recently signed a contract to develop a mobile application for a UK-based client, TechNova Ltd. The project was expected to be completed in 4 months.
Case:
Ramesh, the project manager at ABC, assigned the development task to his team and communicated the requirements over email. However, he failed to organize regular meetings or follow up on progress. The developers interpreted the client’s requirements differently, leading to the development of features that were not part of the initial agreement.
The client was not updated regularly and assumed everything was on track. When the final product was delivered, it lacked key features, and many elements did not meet the expectations. TechNova was unhappy and canceled the remaining payment. ABC Pvt. Ltd. not only lost a client but also suffered reputational damage.
Discussion Questions:
1. What communication gaps can you identify in this case?
2. How could Ramesh have ensured better understanding among his team?
3. What steps should be taken to avoid such situations in future projects?
Suggested Solution:
Communication Gaps:
* Lack of regular team meetings.
* Sole reliance on email without confirming understanding.
* No regular updates to the client.
Better Practices:
* Hold kickoff and weekly meetings to clarify goals.
* Use project management tools like Trello or Asana for task tracking.
* Schedule regular virtual meetings with the client for feedback.
Future Steps:
* Develop a communication plan at the beginning of every project.
* Assign a liaison officer to handle client communication.
* Create written summaries of every major client meeting and share with the team.
Topic: Non-verbal Communication
ReplyDeleteDefinition:
Non-verbal communication refers to the process of conveying a message without the use of words. It includes facial expressions, gestures, body language, eye contact, posture, tone of voice, and even silence.
Importance in Business Context:
1. First Impressions: Non-verbal cues like dress code, handshake, and posture play a big role in creating impressions in interviews and meetings.
2. Support Verbal Communication: Gestures and facial expressions can reinforce spoken words.
3. Express Emotions: Emotions like happiness, anger, surprise, or confusion are often better expressed non-verbally.
4. Cross-Cultural Understanding:Non-verbal cues vary across cultures, so understanding them helps in international business dealings.
5. Negotiation & Persuasion:Successful negotiators are skilled in reading body language to assess the mood and reactions of others.
Types of Non-verbal Communication:
1. Kinesics: Body language – facial expressions, gestures, posture.
2. Proxemics: Use of space – personal distance varies culturally.
3. Haptics: Use of touch – like handshakes or pats on the back.
4. Paralanguage: Tone, pitch, volume of voice.
5. Appearance: Clothing, hairstyle, cleanliness.
6. Chronemics: Use of time – punctuality shows professionalism.
Examples in Business Settings:
* Nodding during a presentation shows attentiveness.
* Avoiding eye contact may indicate dishonesty or nervousness.
* Standing confidently shows leadership.
Conclusion:
Non-verbal communication is a powerful tool in the business world. Mastering it can enhance professional relationships, leadership skills, and overall communication effectiveness.
The phrase "Conducting and participating in the meetings"refers to two important roles in any formal or informal meeting setup. Here's a brief explanation of each:
ReplyDelete1. Conducting Meetings
This involves leading or organizing a meeting. The person conducting the meeting is usually the chairperson, facilitator, or host, and their duties include:
* Preparing the agenda
* Inviting participants
* Starting and guiding the discussion
* Managing time
* Summarizing key points
* Making decisions or assigning tasks
* Ending the meeting effectively
2. Participating in Meetings
This refers to the **active involvement** of attendees in a meeting. Participants are expected to:
* Attend on time
* Prepare in advance
* Listen actively
* Share relevant ideas or feedback
* Ask questions or raise concerns
* Follow up on assigned tasks
ReplyDeleteMeeting Title: Monthly Staff Meeting
Date: May 15, 2025
Time: 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM
Venue: Conference Room A
Chairperson: Mr. Ramesh Shrestha (Managing Director)
Note-taker: Ms. Anita Sharma (Admin Officer)
1. Attendance
Present:
* Mr. Ramesh Shrestha – Managing Director
* Ms. Anita Sharma – Admin Officer
* Mr. Suman Joshi – Finance Manager
* Ms. Kabita Thapa – HR Manager
* Mr. Arjun Lama – Sales Officer
Apologies:
* Ms. Rekha Adhikari – Marketing Head (on official leave)
-2. Agenda Items
2.1 Review of Last Meeting Minutes
* Approved with no corrections.
2.2 Sales Performance Review (April 2025)
* Mr. Arjun Lama presented the sales report.
* Sales increased by 8% compared to March 2025.
* Suggestion to focus more on online sales.
Decision:
* Sales team to develop an online sales strategy by May 25.
* Responsible: Mr. Arjun Lama
2.3 HR Update on Staff Training**
* Ms. Kabita Thapa proposed a two-day workshop on “Customer Service Excellence.”
* Tentative date: June 10–11, 2025.
Decision:
* Approved. Training to be conducted at Hotel Simara View.
* Responsible: Ms. Kabita Thapa
2.4 Budget Review
* Mr. Suman Joshi highlighted overspending in office supplies.
* Proposed a 15% cut in next month’s budget.
Decision:
* Department heads to monitor spending and submit weekly reports.
* Responsible: All Department Heads
3. Other Business
* Annual company picnic scheduled for July 5, 2025.
* Planning committee to be formed by next week.
4. Date of Next Meeting
* June 17, 2025, at 10:00 AM, Conference Room A
Meeting Adjourned at: 11:30 AM
Minutes Prepared by:
Ms. Anita Sharma
Date: May 15, 2025
Comparative Question:
ReplyDeleteHow do Judy Brady in "I Want a Wife"* and Gayle Rosenwald Smith in "The Wife-Beater"present the theme of gender roles and expectations in society?
-- Comparative Answer:
Both Judy Brady’s “I Want a Wife” and Gayle Rosenwald Smith’s “The Wife-Beater”critically explore gender roles and expectations, but they approach the subject in different ways.
In “I Want a Wife,” Brady uses satire and irony to highlight the unrealistic and unfair expectations placed on women in traditional marriages. She lists all the duties expected of a wife — cooking, cleaning, child-rearing, sexual satisfaction, emotional support — as if applying for a servant, not a life partner. Through this exaggerated tone, Brady exposes how society undervalues women and takes their labor for granted. Her essay is a powerful feminist critique of the patriarchal structure that defines women primarily by their roles as wives and mothers.
In contrast, “The Wife-Beater” by Smith takes a more literal and direct approach. She discusses the contradictions in how society romanticizes or normalizes abuse through fashion — specifically, the naming of an undershirt as a “wife-beater.” Smith is disturbed by how casually people, especially women, wear this term without questioning its violent origin. She connects this to real-life abuse and the broader issue of gender-based violence and society’s silence or complicity in it.
While both essays criticize how women are treated, Brady focuses on the burdens of domestic roles, whereas Smith addresses the dangers of cultural normalization of violence against women**. Brady uses sarcasm to challenge sexist expectations, while Smith uses argument and real-life references to challenge the disturbing acceptance of abuse in everyday language and culture.
ReplyDeleteMEMORANDUM
To:[Recipient's Name/Designation]
From:[Your Name/Designation]
Date:[Write the date]
**Subject:[Clear and concise subject line]
Body of the Memo:
1. Opening/Introduction: Briefly state the purpose of the memo.
2. Main Content: Give details, background, or explanation of the issue or information.
3. Conclusion/Action: Mention what is expected next (action to be taken, response needed, etc.).
Example:
MEMORANDUM
To: All Teaching Staff
From: Principal, Brighter Academy
Date:June 1, 2025
Subject: Meeting Regarding Annual Result Preparation
This is to inform you that a staff meeting will be held on June 5, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. in the staff room to discuss the preparation of the final results and distribution of report cards.
All teachers are requested to bring their mark sheets and records for discussion.
Your cooperation is appreciated.
ReplyDeleteNOTICE
[Subject of the Notice]
Date:[DD/MM/YYYY]
To:All Staff / Specific Department(s)
This is to inform you that [clearly state the purpose of the notice — such as a meeting, change in policy, announcement, etc.].
Details:
* Date:[Date of event/action]
* Time:[Time]
* Venue:[Location, if applicable]
* Agenda/Purpose:[Briefly list agenda points or reasons]
You are requested to \[attend/follow/comply/etc.] accordingly. Your presence/prompt action will be highly appreciated.
Issued by:
\[Name of the Manager]
Manager
\[Company/Organization Name]
NOTICE
Staff Meeting Regarding Quarterly Performance Review**
Date: 02/06/2025
To: All Department Heads
This is to inform you that a staff meeting has been scheduled to discuss the quarterly performance review and set targets for the upcoming quarter.
Details:
* Date: 04/06/2025
* Time: 10:00 AM
* Venue:Conference Room A
* Agenda:
* Review of Q2 performance
* Discussion on departmental challenges
*Setting Q3 goals
All department heads are required to attend the meeting without fail and bring relevant performance reports.
Issued by:
Ramesh Thapa
Manager
Everest Trading Pvt. Ltd.
ReplyDeletexx Constructing a Resume xx
1. Header (Personal Information)
Include your:
* Full Name
* Address (optional or just city, district)
* Mobile Number
* Email Address
* LinkedIn (if available)
Example:
Rita Thapa
Birgunj, Parsa, Nepal
Mobile: +977-9800000000
Email: ritathapa@email.com
2. Career Objective or Summary
Write 2–3 lines explaining your career goal and what you offer.
Example:
> Dedicated and enthusiastic individual seeking a teaching position to utilize my communication skills, creativity, and passion for education in a progressive institution.
3. Educational Qualification
Use a table or bullet points.
Example Table:
| Degree | School/College | Board/University | Year | Percentage |
| ------ | -------------------- | -------------------- | ---- | ---------- |
| B.Ed. | XYZ College | Tribhuvan University | 2022 | 70% |
| +2 | ABC Secondary School | NEB | 2018 | 68% |
| SEE | Shree Janata School | NEB | 2016 | 76% |
4. Work Experience (if any)
Mention job title, organization, location, and your duties.
Example:
Primary Teacher
Shree Bal Uddhar School, Bara
*March 2021 – Present
* Taught English and Social Studies from Grade 4 to 6
* Prepared lesson plans and organized educational acts.
5. Skills
List your hard and soft skills.
Example:
* Strong verbal and written communication
* Lesson planning and classroom management
* MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint
* Bilingual: Nepali, Bhojpuri, English
-6. Trainings/Certificates (if any)
Example:
* Basic Computer Training – 2020
* Primary Level Teacher Training7. Extra-Curricular Activities (Optional)
Example.
* Organized inter-school quiz competitions
* Volunteered during COVID-19 awareness programs.
8. References
You can either provide references or simply say:
> References:Available upon request.
**Finding the ideal opportunity**
ReplyDelete1. Learning to Think Like an Employer
• Begin by shifting your mindset: employers are not just looking for degrees—they want people who solve problems, add value, and fit their organizational culture.
• Understand what drives a business: profit, innovation, efficiency, and customer satisfaction.
• Ask yourself, "If I were hiring, what would I want in a candidate for this role?"
2. Researching Industries and Companies of Interest
• Identify which sectors match your interests, skills, and long-term goals.
• Study industry trends, growth potential, required skills, and emerging technologies.
• Research individual companies—look into their mission, values, key people, products, challenges, and recent developments.
3. Translating General Potential into a Specific Solution
• Reflect on your strengths (communication, problem-solving, creativity, etc.).
• Learn how to present those as solutions to real problems companies face.
• Tailor your resume, cover letter, and interviews to show how you solve their specific needs.
4. Taking the Initiative to Find Opportunities
• Don’t wait for job ads—proactively reach out to companies.
• Use platforms like LinkedIn, company websites, and job fairs.
• Consider internships, volunteering, or project work to get your foot in the door.
5. Building Your Network
• Connect with professionals in your field—teachers, alumni, industry experts.
• Attend events, seminars, and webinars. Be curious and open-minded.
• Offer value to your connections—share information, assist, or simply listen well.
6. Seeking Career Counseling
• Meet with school/college career counselors or professional coaches.
• Take career assessments to understand your personality, interests, and strengths.
• Get guidance on educational paths, career planning, and job search strategies.
7. Avoiding Mistakes
• Don’t send generic resumes; tailor them to each job.
• Avoid being passive or overconfident—stay humble but proactive.
• Be careful on social media; employers often check your digital footprint.
• Keep improving your skills and don’t settle for comfort zones.
Sample Combination Resume
ReplyDelete[Your Full Name]
[Your Address] | [Phone Number] | [Email Address] | [LinkedIn/Portfolio]
Professional Summary
Versatile and results-driven professional with over 5 years of experience in customer service, sales, and team leadership. Proven ability to drive revenue, manage client relationships, and streamline operations. Seeking to leverage diverse skills in a [Target Job Title] role.
Core Skills & Strengths
• Customer Relationship Management
• Conflict Resolution & Problem Solving
• Team Leadership & Staff Training
• Sales & Upselling Techniques
• Time Management & Multi-tasking
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office & CRM systems
Key Achievements
• Increased customer retention by 20% through personalized support strategies
• Trained and mentored 10+ new hires, reducing onboarding time by 30%
• Exceeded quarterly sales targets by 15% consistently for 2 years
Professional Experience
Customer Service Supervisor
XYZ Corporation – Kathmandu, Nepal
March 2021 – Present
• Supervise a team of 8 representatives
• Monitor quality assurance and handle escalated issues
• Implement new communication tools that improved team efficiency by 25%
Sales Associate
ABC Retailers – Birgunj, Nepal
June 2018 – Feb 2021
• Met and exceeded monthly sales targets
• Built strong rapport with customers, increasing upsell opportunities
• Conducted inventory checks and assisted in store management tasks
Education
Bachelor of Business Studies (BBS)
Tribhuvan University – Simara, Nepal
Graduated: 2018
Certifications
• Customer Service Excellence – Skillsoft, 2020
• Team Leadership Training – Coursera, 2021
References
Available upon request.
Would you like me to help you create a combination resume with your own background? Just let me know your work history and skills, and I can format it for you.
Sample Functional Resume
ReplyDelete[Your Full Name]
[Your Address] | [Phone Number] | [Email Address] | [LinkedIn Profile]
Objective
Creative and adaptable professional with a strong background in [Industry/Field], seeking a position as a [Job Title] where I can apply my skills in [Key Skill Areas] to contribute to the success of [Company Name].
Key Skills and Qualifications
1. Communication and Interpersonal Skills
• Delivered presentations and led group discussions in academic and workplace settings
• Successfully resolved client complaints with a 95% satisfaction rate
2. Project Management
• Managed school/college projects from planning to execution, consistently meeting deadlines
• Coordinated team members and allocated resources efficiently
3. Technical Proficiency
• Proficient in MS Office Suite, Google Workspace, and [any other tools]
• Experience with data entry, content creation, or [relevant task]
4. Leadership and Teamwork
• Led a team of 5 in a volunteer project, achieving set goals ahead of schedule
• Collaborated with diverse groups in both academic and work settings
Professional Experience (Brief Summary)
Note: This section is optional in functional resumes but can be added briefly to show work history.
Company Name – Job Title
City, State | Year–Year
Company Name – Job Title
City, State | Year–Year
Education
Degree or Certificate
School or University Name – City, State
Year of Graduation
Certifications (Optional)
• Certificate Name – Organization (Year)
References
Available upon request.
Sample Chronological Resume
ReplyDelete[Your Full Name]
[Your Address] | [Phone Number] | [Email Address] | [LinkedIn Profile]
Objective (Optional)
Motivated and detail-oriented professional with [X] years of experience in [Industry/Field], seeking a position as a [Job Title] where I can contribute to [Company's goals/mission].
Work Experience
Job Title
Company Name – City, State
Month Year – Present
• Key responsibility 1
• Key responsibility 2
• Notable achievement or metric (e.g., "Increased sales by 20% in one year")
Previous Job Title
Company Name – City, State
Month Year – Month Year
• Key responsibility
• Achievement
Earlier Job Title
Company Name – City, State
Month Year – Month Year
• Responsibility
• Achievement
Education
Degree or Certification
Institution Name – City, State
Year of Graduation
Skills
• Skill 1
• Skill 2
• Skill 3 (e.g., Microsoft Office, Communication, Project Management)
Certifications (Optional)
• Certification Name – Issuing Organization (Year)
References
Available upon request.
Why were the people in the neighborhood surprised at the role of the young man and his wife in their family?
ReplyDeleteThe people in the neighborhood were surprised at the role of the young man and his wife because his wife used to do work in hospital while he used to live in the house working on his thesis and cook for his wife when she return back home.
e. How did the neighbours respond to the woman’s pregnancy?
The neighbours responded to the woman’s pregnancy by smiling tirelessly. The man in the deli gave her small presents of chocolates and him packets of cigarettes. In the summer, Italian women began to offer names. Greek women stopped the young woman in the street, pulled her skirt up and felt her belly, telling her it was bound to be a boy. By late summer the woman next door had knitted the baby a suit, complete with booties and beanie and the Polish widower next door had almost finished his two-car garage.
MAIN CHARACTERS
ReplyDeleteA Respectable Woman by Kate Chopin
Who are the main characters in the story "A Respectable Woman"?
The main characters in this story are Mr. Gaston Baroda, Mrs. Baroda, and a visitor named Gouvernail.
Mrs. Baroda:
Mrs. Baroda is the main character in the story "A Respectable Woman". She lives with her husband, Mr. Baroda, on her sugar plantation in Louisiana. She is quite a frank as well as chatty woman. She is happily married to Mr. Baroda. But she seems somewhat disturbed by the arrival of Gouvernail, to whom she is physically attracted.
Gouvernail:
Gouvernail is another main character in the story "A Respectable Woman." He is a journalist by profession and a college friend of Mr. Gaston Baroda. He is a peace-loving person. He visits the Barodas' sugar plantation and becomes the main subject of interest to Mrs. Baroda. His presence as well as his behaviour have made Mrs. Baroda feel a mental disturbance.
Mr. Gaston Baroda:
Mr. Gaston Baroda is the third main character of the story. He is the husband of Mrs. Baroda. He is quite a frank man with different hobbies. He cares for his wife very much. For him, Gouvernail is a great friend from his college days. He seems unable to understand his wife's apparent antipathy.
ABOUT THIS SHORT STORY
ReplyDeleteA Respectable Woman by Kate Chopin
Write about the story of "A Respectable Woman".
"A Respectable Woman" is a short fictional story that has been written by American writer Kate Chopin. She had written this story in the early 1890s. The story was initially written on January 20, 1894, and published in Vogue on February 15, 1894. It was one of nineteen Kate Chopin stories that Vogue published.
This story is about the main character, Mrs. Baroda, and her inner conflict. This story has presented Mrs. Baroda's inner conflict as she finds herself attracted to her husband's friend.
The story follows the elements of a traditional plot: exposition, rising action, climax, and resolution.
'A Respectable Woman' is a story about a woman whose husband invites his old college friend to stay with them on their sugar plantation for a week or two. Despite being certain that she will dislike the man, she finds that she is strangely attracted to him and grows confused about her feelings.
Summary of “A Respectable Woman” by Kate Chopin
ReplyDeleteThe story opens with Mrs. Baroda feeling frustrated. She had been looking forward to a quiet, restful time with her husband, Gaston, after a busy winter season. So when Gaston told her that his old college friend, Gouvernail, was coming to stay at their sugar plantation for a week or two, she wasn’t pleased. She’d never met Gouvernail before, only heard about him in passing—he was a journalist now, and Gaston had described him as clever and thoughtful.
Mrs. Baroda had built up an image of Gouvernail in her mind: someone tall, slim, maybe a little aloof or sarcastic, with glasses and a hands-in-pockets sort of demeanor. But when he arrived, he was not what she expected. He was quiet, polite, and very reserved—not especially brilliant or talkative like Gaston. At first, this threw her off. She didn’t understand why she started to feel drawn to him.
Though she couldn’t pinpoint exactly what she liked about Gouvernail, she found him gentle and inoffensive. Unlike other guests, he didn’t try to impress her or demand attention. He seemed content just sitting on the porch, listening to Gaston talk about plantation life. He wasn’t interested in fishing or hunting, and he didn’t speak much at all.
Mrs. Baroda became increasingly unsettled. She couldn’t make sense of her feelings—why was she so intrigued by someone who wasn’t outgoing or particularly engaging? She began joining him on walks, hoping to break through his quiet exterior, but eventually grew tired of the emotional tension. She told her husband she was thinking of leaving for a while to visit her aunt, hinting that Gouvernail’s presence was too much.
That night, as she sat outside alone, Gouvernail approached her quietly. He wrapped a scarf around her shoulders—on her husband’s behalf—and then, for the first time, began to open up. He spoke softly about the past and his longing for peace and simplicity. She barely registered what he was saying; it was the sound of his voice and the intimacy of the moment that overwhelmed her. In that instant, she wanted to reach out to him—touch his face, be close to him—but she didn’t. Her sense of identity, of being "a respectable woman," held her back. She walked away, leaving Gouvernail behind in the night.
The next morning, Mrs. Baroda left for the city and stayed away until after Gouvernail had gone. Though she considered telling her husband about her emotional turmoil, she chose instead to keep it to herself and regain her composure. Later, when Gaston suggested inviting Gouvernail back the next summer, she surprised him by agreeing. She even said she’d treat him better next time. Her change of heart delighted Gaston, though he didn’t understand the depth of what she had gone through.
As with many of Kate Chopin’s stories, the ending is open to interpretation. We’re left wondering: has Mrs. Baroda truly mastered her emotions, or is she merely suppressing them to fit the role of a respectable woman? Chopin leaves us questioning what it really means to live with dignity—whether it’s about adhering to social expectations or staying true to one’s inner truth.
Let me know if you’d like this version shortened or adapted for a specific audience (e.g., classroom discussion, literary essay, etc.).
Summary: The story follows Mrs. Baroda, a woman living on a Louisiana plantation with her husband, Gaston. When Gaston's friend Gouvernail visits, Mrs. Baroda initially finds him dull and unremarkable. However, as they spend time together, she becomes increasingly drawn to him—emotionally and perhaps romantically. Struggling with her unexpected feelings, she decides to leave before anything inappropriate happens. When she later returns, she surprises her husband by saying she would like Gouvernail to visit again, suggesting a complex internal struggle between her role as a "respectable woman" and her repressed desires.
ReplyDeleteThe story highlights the tension between societal roles and personal emotions, a common theme in Chopin’s work.
Case Study:
ReplyDeleteA case study is a detailed examination of a real-life situation, organization, event, or individual over a period of time, used to explore causes, processes, outcomes, and lessons learned.
🔍 Definition:
A case study is a method of research or analysis that involves an in-depth, contextual investigation of a subject (the "case") to understand complex issues or relationships.
📘 Purpose of a Case Study:
• To explore real-world challenges or successes
• To analyze problems and how they were solved
• To draw lessons for future decision-making
• To apply theory to practice in fields like business, management, healthcare, law, etc.
🧱 Typical Structure of a Case Study:
• Title/Introduction: Brief overview of the topic or organization.
• Background: Context, history, or relevant facts.
• Problem Statement: What challenge or issue was faced?
• Analysis: What caused the problem? What dynamics were involved?
• Actions Taken: What solutions or interventions were applied?
• Results: What changed? Were the actions successful?
• Conclusion/Lessons Learned: Insights gained and recommendations.
📌 Example Types of Case Studies:
TypeFocus Area ExampleBusinessCommunication failure in a corporate mergerHealthcarePatient treatment response over timeEducationA school improving student performanceLegalA precedent-setting court casePsychologyA patient's behavior under therapy
📚 In Managerial Communication:
A case study might examine:
• How a manager’s poor communication caused project failure
• How a leadership team resolved a crisis through transparent messaging
• The impact of cross-cultural communication in a multinational team
Case Study: Multicultural Communication for a Manager in Nepal
ReplyDeleteTitle: Bridging Cultures – A Nepali Manager’s Experience with a Diverse Remote Team
Background
Prakash Shrestha is a project manager at a Kathmandu-based software development firm, HimalTech Solutions, which recently secured a contract with an international NGO. The project involves collaboration with team members and stakeholders from Nepal, the USA, the UK, the Philippines, and Kenya. The work is remote and deadline-driven, focused on developing a disaster risk management platform.
Though Prakash has managed local teams effectively, this is his first experience leading a multicultural, global team.
Key Issues
• Cultural Perceptions of Time and Deadlines
Prakash is used to Nepal’s more flexible, polychronic time culture. However, UK and US team members emphasize strict deadlines, punctuality, and calendar adherence.
• Communication Barriers
While English is the common working language, differences in accent, idioms, and formality levels create miscommunication—especially between American and Nepali or Kenyan team members.
• Hierarchy and Decision-Making Styles
Prakash, following a traditional Nepali leadership style, initially avoided direct confrontation and preferred consensus. However, US and UK colleagues expected faster decision-making and more assertive leadership.
• Virtual Engagement
Filipino and Kenyan teammates were hesitant to speak up in large group calls, while Western team members dominated discussions. Nepali junior staff were reluctant to challenge ideas or ask questions due to respect for authority.
Actions Taken
• Cultural Awareness Sessions: Prakash organized short sessions where each team shared aspects of their culture, communication preferences, and work expectations.
• Communication Norms Charter: The team co-created a document outlining agreed norms—such as response times, meeting etiquette, and preferred feedback styles.
• One-on-One Check-ins: To encourage quieter team members (especially Nepali and Kenyan staff), Prakash held informal individual meetings to understand their challenges and perspectives.
• Balanced Meeting Schedule: Meetings were rotated to accommodate various time zones fairly, including early morning and late evening options on a rotating basis.
Results
• Improved Clarity and Collaboration: Clearer communication norms reduced misunderstandings and improved inter-team trust.
• Greater Inclusion: Junior and culturally reserved team members became more vocal and confident, knowing their input was valued.
• On-Time Delivery: With enhanced collaboration and accountability, the team met their milestones without delays.
Lessons Learned
• Being a manager in a multicultural setting requires adapting one’s leadership style to fit the team, not just the local context.
• Creating a space where every voice is heard sometimes means stepping back from traditional authority roles.
• Cross-cultural understanding is not a one-time task—it’s an ongoing process of learning and adjustment.
Discussion Questions
• How can Nepali managers lead confidently while adapting to international expectations?
• What cultural communication habits (e.g., indirectness, deference to authority) could be both a strength and a challenge in global teams?
• How can small firms in Nepal better prepare their managers for multicultural leadership roles?
Title: The Respectable Woman
ReplyDeleteAuthor: Kate Chopin
Genre: Short story
Setting: A house in the countryside, probably in Louisiana, USA.
Full Summary with Development Stages
1. Exposition (Introduction)
Mrs. Baroda is a respectable and proper woman, married to Gaston Baroda. She lives a quiet and comfortable life. One day, her husband tells her that his friend Gouvernail will visit them for a week. Mrs. Baroda is not happy because she prefers peaceful company and is not interested in entertaining someone she does not know. She expects Gouvernail to be boring or disagreeable.
2. Rising Action
When Gouvernail arrives, Mrs. Baroda is surprised. He is not what she expected. He is calm, gentle, and speaks little. He likes to walk alone and sit in silence. Over time, she begins to like him. She enjoys listening to him talk quietly and thoughtfully, though she still cannot understand everything about him.
But soon, she feels confused. She starts to feel emotionally and physically attracted to Gouvernail, which makes her feel guilty and uncomfortable because she is a loyal and "respectable" woman.
3. Climax
One evening, Mrs. Baroda sits next to Gouvernail outside and listens to him talk. She feels strong emotions and has an internal struggle. She wants to touch him or confess her feelings, but she controls herself. She does not act on her desire because she wants to remain a "respectable woman." This is the turning point of the story—her battle between desire and duty.
4. Falling Action
After this emotional conflict, Mrs. Baroda decides to go away for a while to her aunt’s house. She wants to calm down and control her feelings. She does not tell her husband the real reason for going away.
5. Resolution (Ending)
Later, Mrs. Baroda returns home. One day, she surprises her husband by saying that Gouvernail should visit again. Her husband is pleased. She smiles and says, “I have overcome everything and I can now be very nice to him.” The ending is ironic, as it is not clear whether she has truly overcome her feelings or is just pretending.
Themes:
• Inner conflict between desire and duty
• Role of women in society (expectations of being "respectable")
• Self-control and repression
• Irony and ambiguity in human emotions
Main Characters:
• Mrs. Baroda – The main character, a respectable, thoughtful woman dealing with her emotions.
• Gaston Baroda – Her husband, friendly and trusting.
• Gouvernail – Gaston’s friend, calm, quiet, and unaware of Mrs. Baroda's feelings.
Message of the Story:
The story explores how women, especially in the past, were expected to behave properly even if it meant hiding their true feelings. It shows that even respectable people have complex emotions, but society expects them to hide those feelings to keep their reputation.
Understanding the Text (Literal Comprehension)
ReplyDelete• Who is the central character in the story "A Respectable Woman"?
• Why is Mrs. Baroda upset by the news of Gouvernail's visit?
• What kind of relationship do Mrs. Baroda and Gouvernail share during his stay?
• What internal conflict does Mrs. Baroda experience in the story?
• What decision does Mrs. Baroda make at the end of the story?
• How does Mr. Baroda describe his friend Gouvernail?
Interpretation (Critical Thinking & Inference)
• What is the meaning of the title "A Respectable Woman"? Who is meant by a "respectable woman" in the story?
• What does the story suggest about women’s roles and expectations in society?
• How does Kate Chopin present the theme of repression of desires in the story?
• Why doesn’t Mrs. Baroda act on her feelings toward Gouvernail?
• How does the story reflect the idea of self-control and moral obligation?
Analyzing the Text (Language & Style)
• How does the writer use third-person limited narration to present Mrs. Baroda’s inner conflict?
• What literary devices (like irony or symbolism) are used in the story?
Opinion-Based/Discussion Questions
• Do you think Mrs. Baroda is truly a “respectable woman”? Why or why not?
• What would you have done if you were in Mrs. Baroda's situation?
• Is Gouvernail responsible in any way for Mrs. Baroda’s feelings?
Understanding the Text (Literal Comprehension)
ReplyDelete1. Who is the central character in the story "A Respectable Woman"?
The central character is Mrs. Baroda, a woman who struggles internally with unexpected feelings toward her husband’s friend.
2. Why is Mrs. Baroda upset by the news of Gouvernail's visit?
She is upset because she had expected to spend quiet time with her husband alone and didn’t want to be bothered by guests. She also had a preconceived idea of Gouvernail, imagining him to be uninteresting.
3. What kind of relationship do Mrs. Baroda and Gouvernail share during his stay?
Their relationship is formal and reserved. However, Mrs. Baroda becomes internally conflicted as she feels an emotional and physical attraction to Gouvernail, though nothing improper happens between them.
4. What internal conflict does Mrs. Baroda experience in the story?
Mrs. Baroda struggles between her desire for Gouvernail and her sense of duty, morality, and social expectations as a respectable married woman.
5. What decision does Mrs. Baroda make at the end of the story?
At the end of the story, Mrs. Baroda decides to invite Gouvernail again, suggesting she has regained control over her feelings or is perhaps ready to confront them in a more self-assured way.
6. How does Mr. Baroda describe his friend Gouvernail?
Mr. Baroda describes Gouvernail as a gentle, inoffensive, intelligent man who prefers quietness and does not talk much, which he finds refreshing and comforting.
Interpretation (Critical Thinking & Inference)
1. What is the meaning of the title "A Respectable Woman"? Who is meant by a "respectable woman" in the story?
The title refers to Mrs. Baroda, who is expected to uphold the moral standards and behavior of a proper married woman. Despite feeling a strong attraction toward Gouvernail, she chooses not to act on it, thus maintaining her respectability in society.
2. What does the story suggest about women’s roles and expectations in society?
The story suggests that women are expected to be loyal, morally upright, and emotionally controlled. Society limits women’s personal desires and promotes the ideal of the “respectable woman” who sacrifices her feelings for the sake of reputation and duty.
3. How does Kate Chopin present the theme of repression of desires in the story?
Through Mrs. Baroda’s character, Chopin presents a woman who feels a strong emotional and possibly physical attraction to another man but suppresses her desires in order to fit the societal image of a respectable wife.
4. Why doesn’t Mrs. Baroda act on her feelings toward Gouvernail?
She refrains because of her strong sense of morality, duty to her husband, and social norms. Acting on her feelings would go against the image of a faithful and respectable woman, something she deeply values.
5. How does the story reflect the idea of self-control and moral obligation?
The story shows that Mrs. Baroda chooses self-control over temptation. Even though she is deeply conflicted, she ultimately makes the moral decision, demonstrating how personal desires are often suppressed for the sake of duty and reputation.
Analyzing the Text (Language & Style)
1. How does the writer use third-person limited narration to present Mrs. Baroda’s inner conflict?
The story is told in third-person limited point of view, focusing closely on Mrs. Baroda’s thoughts and emotions. This allows the readers to understand her private turmoil and unspoken feelings while keeping Gouvernail’s thoughts unknown, which adds mystery and emotional tension.
2. What literary devices (like irony or symbolism) are used in the story?
The story uses:
• Irony: Although she is called a “respectable woman,” she secretly struggles with feelings that challenge that very respectability.
• Symbolism: The garden and night scenes symbolize temptation and emotional confusion.
• Foreshadowing: Her discomfort hints early on at the deeper emotional conflict to come.
Summary of “The Case Against Air Conditioning” – Stan Cox
ReplyDeleteStan Cox, in his thought-provoking essay, criticizes the overuse of air conditioning (AC), especially in countries like the United States. He argues that while AC provides comfort, its widespread and unnecessary use has serious environmental, social, and economic consequences.
Main Points:
• Environmental Harm:
ACs consume a large amount of electricity, much of which is generated from fossil fuels. This leads to increased carbon emissions and contributes to global warming, creating a vicious cycle—the hotter it gets, the more AC we use, which in turn worsens climate change.
• Social Disconnection:
Cox explains that in the past, people used to interact more with their neighbors in the evenings. Now, due to AC, people stay indoors in closed spaces, making society less sociable and more isolated.
• Wasteful Consumption:
The essay criticizes the unnecessary use of AC in offices, malls, and homes, even when it is not extremely hot. This overuse increases energy bills and puts pressure on energy resources.
• Alternative Solutions:
Cox encourages the use of natural cooling methods, such as using fans, building houses with proper ventilation, planting trees, and changing work hours to avoid the heat of the day.
• Not Against Essential Use:
He clarifies that he is not completely against air conditioning. He agrees that AC is necessary in hospitals, elderly homes, or during heatwaves, but it should not be used excessively for luxury.
Conclusion:
Stan Cox’s message is clear: Air conditioning should be used wisely and responsibly. Instead of depending too much on AC, we should adopt more sustainable and community-friendly ways to stay cool. This not only helps the environment but also improves our quality of life.
What is a Prefix?
ReplyDeleteA prefix is a group of letters added at the beginning of a word to change its meaning. It is not a complete word on its own, but when attached to a root word, it creates a new word with a different meaning.
Examples of Prefixes and Their Meanings:
PrefixMeaningExampleNew Word Meaningun-notunhappynot happyre-againrewritewrite againpre-beforepreschoolbefore school startsdis-opposite of / notdisagreenot agreemis-wronglymisspellspell wronglyin-notincompletenot completeim-notimpossiblenot possibleover-too muchovereateat too much
Key Points:
• Prefixes modify the meaning of the base word.
• They are always placed at the beginning of a word.
• Prefixes do not stand alone as words.
Some More Examples:
• Unfair = un (not) + fair → not fair
• Replay = re (again) + play → play again
• Impossible = im (not) + possible → not possible
• Dislike = dis (not) + like → not like
🔹 1. Pre- (before)
• Preview
• Preheat
• Prepaid
• Preplan
• Preschool
• Pretest
• Prearrange
• Preorder
• Prehistoric
• Prewrite
🔹 2. Semi- (half, partly)
• Semicircle
• Semifinal
• Semicolon
• Semisweet
• Semiannual
• Semiconscious
• Semiformal
• Semiconductor
• Semiliterate
• Semidetached
🔹 3. Sub- (under, below)
• Submarine
• Subway
• Substandard
• Submerge
• Subheading
• Subcontinent
• Subtract
• Subsection
• Substitute
• Subconscious
🔹 4. Mis- (wrong, badly)
• Misunderstand
• Misplace
• Mislead
• Misbehave
• Misuse
• Misprint
• Mistake
• Misjudge
• Misinform
• Misread
🔹 5. Mono- (one, single)
• Monologue
• Monotone
• Monorail
• Monopoly
• Monograph
• Monolingual
• Monochrome
• Monogamy
• Monoculture
• Monocle
🔹 6. Un- (not)
• Unhappy
• Unkind
• Unfair
• Unusual
• Unclear
• Unimportant
• Unfinished
• Unfriendly
• Untidy
• Unlucky
🔹 7. In- (not)
• Inactive
• Incomplete
• Inaccurate
• Insecure
• Inedible
• Invisible
• Indirect
• Insincere
• Inappropriate
• Inflexible
🔹 8. Inter- (between, among)
• International
• Internet
• Interact
• Interfere
• Interlock
• Interconnect
• Interview
• Interchange
• Interpret
• Intersection
The Importance of Family
ReplyDeleteFamily is the most valuable part of our lives. It is where we first learn to speak, walk, love, and live. For me, family is important because it gives me love, support, and a sense of belonging. No matter what happens in life, my family stands by my side. They celebrate my success and guide me through my failures. Without my family, I would feel lost and alone.
Family is also very important for society. A strong family builds a strong community. Families teach children good manners, responsibility, and respect for others. These values help make society peaceful and cooperative. When families are caring and united, the entire society benefits. On the other hand, if families are broken or full of conflict, society can face problems like crime, loneliness, and a lack of moral values.
In the future, I think families may change in size and structure. Today, many families are smaller, with fewer children. Some people may live far from their parents or choose not to marry. Technology may also affect family life. People may spend more time online and less time together. However, I believe the emotional need for love and connection will always keep families important.
In conclusion, family is the foundation of both personal happiness and a healthy society. It shapes our identity, teaches us values, and supports us in every stage of life. Even as families change in the future, their importance will remain the same because everyone needs love, care, and a place to belong.
Summary of "A Day" by Emily Dickinson:
ReplyDeleteEmily Dickinson’s poem “A Day” describes the progression of a day from sunrise to sunset, using vivid and symbolic imagery. At first, the poet portrays the morning in bright and cheerful terms. She describes the sun rising with beautiful metaphors like the “ribbons at the church” and “steeples swam in amethyst”, giving a sense of innocence and wonder.
As the day unfolds, children go about their activities, and the world comes alive with light and color. However, in the latter part of the poem, the tone shifts as the day ends. The sunset is described as mysterious, almost eerie, and the speaker refers to the end of the day as entering “the dominie in gray”—a symbol of death or the unknown.
The poem moves from clarity to ambiguity, representing life’s journey from birth (sunrise) to death (sunset). The speaker admits that while she can describe what happens during the day, she doesn’t fully understand what comes after, hinting at the mystery of the afterlife.
Key Themes:
• Innocence and experience
• Cycle of life and death
• Mystery of the afterlife
• Beauty of nature
Stanza-wise summary of the poem "A Day" by Emily Dickinson:
ReplyDeleteStanza 1:
"I’ll tell you how the Sun rose —
A Ribbon at a time —
The Steeples swam in Amethyst —
The news like Squirrels ran —"
Summary:
The poet begins by describing a beautiful sunrise. The sunlight appears gradually, like ribbons spreading in the sky. Church steeples seem to glow purple (amethyst), and the arrival of the day is so exciting that it spreads quickly, like squirrels running—symbolizing fast-moving news or energy.
Stanza 2:
"The Hills untied their Bonnets —
The Bobolinks — begun —
Then I said softly to myself —
'That must have been the Sun!'"
Summary:
As the sun rises, the hills seem to "untie their bonnets," suggesting that nature is waking up and revealing itself. Birds (bobolinks) begin to sing. The speaker, in awe, quietly concludes that all this beauty must be because the sun has risen.
Stanza 3:
"But how he set — I know not —
There seemed a purple stile
Which little Yellow boys and girls
Were climbing all the while —"
Summary:
While the speaker understands how the sun rises, she admits she does not know how it sets. The sunset is described as a "purple stile" (a kind of step or barrier), and children (perhaps symbolic of souls or innocence) are seen climbing it, as if crossing from the known world to the unknown.
Stanza 4:
"Till when they reached the other side,
A Dominie in Gray —
Put gently up the evening Bars —
And led the flock away —"
Summary:
Once the children (or souls) reach the other side, a "Dominie in Gray" (a teacher or spiritual guide, possibly representing death or God) appears. He gently closes the gates (evening bars) and leads the “flock” away—suggesting the peaceful transition from life to death.
Overall Message:
The poem symbolically represents the journey of life—from sunrise (birth) to sunset (death). While the day (life) is described with clarity and color, the end (death or afterlife) remains mysterious but peaceful.
Some specific rules:
ReplyDelete1. Each
Use: Refers to individual items in a group separately.
Followed directly by a singular noun.
Examples:
• Each student received a certificate.
(Individual attention to every student.)
• Each book on the shelf is expensive.
(Talking about books one by one.)
• Each child was given a balloon.
(Every child individually.)
• Each apple is fresh and juicy.
(Referring to apples one by one.)
• Each door leads to a different room.
(Every single door, separately.)
2. Each of
Use: Refers to individual items in a group, but used before plural nouns or pronouns (like them, us, you).
Followed by "the," "my," "these," etc. + plural noun or pronoun.
Examples:
• Each of the students passed the test.
(All students, considered individually.)
• Each of my friends has a bike.
(Talking about every friend separately.)
• Each of these apples is red.
(Focusing on each apple in the group.)
• Each of them was present.
(Individual attention to every person in "them.")
• Each of the questions was difficult.
(All questions, treated one by one.)
3. Every
Use: Refers to all members of a group collectively.
Used with singular countable nouns only.
Examples:
• Every student must attend the class.
(All students, as a group.)
• Every house on this street is painted white.
(All houses, no exception.)
• Every day brings a new opportunity.
(Talking about all days in general.)
• Every teacher was invited to the meeting.
(Refers to all teachers collectively.)
• Every book in the library was damaged by water.
(All books, considered together.)
Use f "Much", "Many" ,"little"," few" and "a few"
ReplyDelete1. Much
Use: With uncountable nouns (things you can't count: water, money, sugar, time, etc.)
Meaning: A large amount
Examples:
• There isn't much water in the bottle.
• She doesn't have much money.
• I don't have much time to study.
• How much sugar do you need?
• He didn’t show much interest in the topic.
2. Many
Use: With countable nouns (plural)
Meaning: A large number
Examples:
• There are many students in the classroom.
• She has many friends.
• How many books do you read every year?
• I saw many birds in the park.
• Many people like to travel.
3. Little
Use: With uncountable nouns
Meaning: Almost none; not enough (negative tone)
Examples:
• There is little hope of success.
• I had little time to finish the work.
• He has little interest in studies.
• We have little milk left in the fridge.
• They showed little concern for the issue.
4. A few
Use: With countable nouns (plural)
Meaning: Some, but not many (positive tone)
Examples:
• I have a few friends in this town.
• She made a few mistakes, but improved.
• We took a few photos at the event.
• A few students were late.
• I’ll ask a few questions.
5. Few
Use: With countable nouns (plural)
Meaning: Not many; almost none (negative tone)
Examples:
• Few people attended the meeting.
• He has few ideas to share.
• There were few buses available.
• Few students understood the topic.
• I read few books last month.
Specific Rules:
ReplyDelete1. Each
Used before a singular noun to refer to individual items in a group, one at a time.
Focus: Individual members of a group.
Examples:
• Each student was given a certificate.
• Each apple on the tree is ripe.
• Each teacher has a different teaching style.
• Each question must be answered carefully.
• Each child received a gift.
2. Each of
Used before plural nouns or pronouns (e.g., the, these, those, my + plural noun, them, us).
Refers to individuals/items within a group.
Examples:
• Each of the students passed the exam.
• Each of my friends came to the party.
• Each of these pens is expensive.
• Each of them got a chance to speak.
• Each of the books was interesting.
3. Every
Used before singular countable nouns.
Refers to all members of a group considered together.
Focus: The group as a whole.
Examples:
• Every student in the class must attend.
• Every house on this street has a garden.
• Every day brings a new challenge.
• Every child needs love and care.
• Every question was answered correctly.
A lot of people try to get away from home for a few days each year for a holiday. There are a lot of things to choose from, and where you go depends on how much money you have got to spend. Ideas for holidays include relaxing on a beach, exploring cities, and skiing. One man wanted to go to Australia but thought he'd never have enough money to get there. He will go to his brother's caravan at the seaside instead. A young woman wanted to go clubbing in Ibiza, as she'd heard it's a lot of fun.
ReplyDeleteArgentina Beat Brazil to Win Copa America
ReplyDeleteby Reuters
RIO DE JANEIRO, July 10 – Argentina clinched their first major title in 28 years by defeating Brazil 1-0 in the final of the Copa America. The victory marked a historic moment as it was the first international medal for Lionel Messi in a blue-and-white shirt.
The winning goal came from Ángel Di María, who scored in the first half to give Argentina a narrow but crucial lead. Despite intense pressure from Brazil, especially in the second half where they played more aggressively, they were unable to find an equalizer.
This victory earned Argentina their 15th Copa America title, equaling Brazil's record. Argentina's defense was outstanding throughout the match, effectively neutralizing Brazil’s attacking threats and securing the win.
The triumph was celebrated widely, not just for the title, but for finally giving Messi a long-awaited international trophy.
In Favour of Hosting International Sports Events
ReplyDeleteInternational sports events like the FIFA World Cup, the Olympics, and the Cricket World Cup are more than just competitions—they are global celebrations of unity, talent, and culture. While some argue that hosting such events brings more problems than benefits, I firmly believe that hosting an international sports event brings significant advantages to a country, both in the short term and long term.
Firstly, hosting an international sports event boosts the economy. The inflow of tourists, athletes, officials, and media personnel leads to increased business for hotels, restaurants, transport services, and local vendors. The demand for services creates thousands of temporary and permanent jobs, helping to reduce unemployment and improve living standards. For example, when South Africa hosted the 2010 FIFA World Cup, it created over 130,000 jobs and boosted the country’s GDP.
Secondly, these events offer an excellent opportunity to develop infrastructure. Roads, airports, stadiums, hospitals, and public transport systems are upgraded to meet international standards. Even after the event ends, citizens continue to benefit from these improvements. A better infrastructure also attracts future investment and tourism.
Another major benefit is international exposure. Hosting a major event puts the host country in the global spotlight. This helps to promote the country’s image, culture, and tourism industry. People around the world get a chance to learn about the host country’s traditions, values, and natural beauty. Countries like Qatar, Brazil, and Russia have used international sports events to improve their global reputation.
Social unity and national pride are also strengthened. When a country hosts an event, people from different regions and communities come together to support their teams and celebrate as one nation. This builds a sense of belonging and unity among citizens. The younger generation also gets inspired by the sports stars they watch, leading to greater interest in sports and healthy lifestyles.
Of course, hosting an international event comes with challenges. It requires massive investment, and if not managed properly, it can lead to debt and unused facilities. Some events have caused environmental damage and forced people to move from their homes. However, with proper planning, transparency, and sustainability measures, these risks can be minimized.
For example, countries can build eco-friendly stadiums, reuse existing venues, and involve local communities in planning. Partnerships with private companies can help share the cost. Countries like Germany and Japan have shown how to successfully manage both the event and the budget.
In conclusion, although there are some potential risks, the benefits of hosting international sports events outweigh the problems. It is a chance to grow the economy, modernize infrastructure, unite the people, and promote the nation globally. With proper management and vision, hosting such events can be a source of pride, progress, and long-term development for any country.
Let me know if you'd like the same essay written against hosting sports events as well, or if you want to use this for classroom purposes.
Specific Rules:
ReplyDeleteAlthough / Though
In spite of / Despite
These are often confused, but they have different grammatical structures:
1. Although / Though
• They are conjunctions.
• Used to connect two clauses (subject + verb).
• They show contrast between the two clauses.
• Meaning: even if, however, despite the fact that.
Structure:
Although / Though + [subject + verb], [main clause]
Examples:
• Although it was raining, we went for a walk.
• Though he is very rich, he lives a simple life.
• She passed the exam, although she didn’t study much.
• I enjoyed the film, though it was too long. (Though can also be used at the end as an informal contrast)
2. In spite of / Despite
• They are prepositions.
• Followed by a noun, pronoun, or gerund (verb+ing), NOT a clause.
• Also show contrast.
Structure:
In spite of / Despite + noun / pronoun / gerund
Examples:
• In spite of the rain, we went for a walk.
• Despite his wealth, he lives a simple life.
• She passed the exam despite not studying much.
• In spite of feeling tired, she finished the work.
• Use Although/Though if the next part has a verb:
Although it was late, he called me.
• Use In spite of/Despite if the next part is a noun or gerund:
Despite the late hour, he called me.
Grammar
ReplyDeleteA. Study the following sentences and underline the connectives.
a. Although she spoke very fast, I understood what she meant to say.
b. In spite of her hard labour, she failed her exam.
c. Though he had all the required qualifications, he did not get the job.
d. Despite having all the qualifications, he did not get the job.
B. Join the following pairs of sentences twice, using although/though/even though and despite/in spite of as in the example.
a. He is a millionaire. He lives in a simple house.
– Although he is a millionaire, he lives in a simple house.
– Despite of being a millionaire, he lives in a simple house.
b. The weather was extremely bad. The pilot landed the plane safely.
– In spite of extremely bad weather, the pilot landed the plane safely.
– Although the weather was extremely bad, the pilot landed the plane safely.
c. We study in the same college. We hardly see each other.
– Despite studying in the same college, we hardly see each other.
– Although we study in the same college, we hardly see each other.
d. It rained heavily. We enjoyed our holiday.
– Although it rained heavily, we enjoyed our holiday.
– In spite of the heavy rain, we enjoyed our holiday.
e. I had an umbrella. I got wet in the rain.
– Despite having an umbrella, I got wet in the rain.
– Although I had an umbrella, I got wet in the rain.
f. I was really tired. I could not sleep for a moment.
– Although I was really tired, I could not sleep for a moment.
– I couldn’t sleep despite being very tired.
g. She has a very good accent in English. She failed the interview of a newsreader.
– Despite having a very good accent in English, she failed the interview of a newsreader.
– Although she has a very good accent in English, she failed the interview of a newsreader.
h. Lhasa has extremely cold weather in winter. Millions of tourists go there in January.
– Millions of tourists go to Lhasa in January, even though it has extremely cold weather in winter.
– Despite having extremely cold weather in winter, millions of tourists go to Lhasa in January.
i. He was badly injured in the first round of the boxing match. He was victorious in the third round.
– In spite of being badly injured in the first round of the boxing match, he was victorious in the third round.
– Although he was badly injured in the first round of the boxing match, he was victorious in the third round.
Key Differences and Usage:
ReplyDeleteMeaning:
Both express contrast, indicating that something happened or is true despite a challenging or opposing factor.
Structure:
They are typically followed by a noun, a gerund, or a noun phrase.
Noun: "Despite the rain, we had a great time."
Gerund: "In spite of feeling tired, she went to the party."
Noun Phrase: "Despite his lack of experience, he got the job."
"Despite" vs. "In Spite Of":
"Despite" is a single word, while "in spite of" is a three-word phrase. While both are generally interchangeable, "despite" can be seen as slightly more formal.
"Despite the fact that" or "In Spite of the fact that":
When you want to use a subject and verb after these phrases, you need to add "the fact that". For example, "Despite the fact that it was late, they continued working."
Examples:
"She completed the marathon in spite of her injury."
"Despite the challenges, they managed to reach the summit."
"He enjoyed the movie in spite of the bad reviews."
"Despite the fact that it was raining, they went for a walk."
B. Join the following pairs of sentences twice, using although/though/even though and despite/in spite of/as.
ReplyDeleteb. He is a millionaire. He lives in a simple house.
i. Although he is a millionaire, he lives in a simple house.
ii. He lives in a simple house in spite of being a millionaire.
c. The weather was extremely bad. The pilot landed the plane safely.
i. Although the weather was extremely bad, the pilot landed the plane safely.
ii. The pilot landed the plane safely in spite of the extremely bad weather.
d. We study in the same college. We hardly see each other.
i. Although we study in the same college, we hardly see each other.
ii. We hardly see each other in spite of studying in the same college.
e. It rained heavily. We enjoyed our holiday.
i. Although it rained heavily, we enjoyed our holiday.
ii. We enjoyed our holiday in spite of the heavy rain.
f. I had an umbrella. I got wet in the rain.
i. Although I had an umbrella, I got wet in the rain.
ii. I got wet in the rain in spite of having an umbrella.
g. I was really tired. I could not sleep a moment.
i. Although I was really tired, I could not sleep a moment.
ii. I could not sleep a moment in spite of being really tired.
h. She has very good accent in English. She failed the interview of a newsreader.
i. Although she has a very good accent in English, she failed the interview of a newsreader.
ii. She failed the interview of a newsreader in spite of having a very good accent in English.
i. Lhasa has extremely cold weather in winter. Millions of tourists go there in January.
i. Although Lhasa has extremely cold weather in winter, millions of tourists go there in January.
ii. Millions of tourists go there in January in spite of the extremely cold weather in winter.
j. He was badly injured in the first round of the boxing match. He was victorious in the third round.
i. Although he was badly injured in the first round of the boxing match, he was victorious in the third round.
ii. He was victorious in the third round in spite of being badly injured in the first round.
C. Complete each sentence in an appropriate way.
a. He passed the exam although he was sick.
b. She climbed the mountain in spite of her old age.
c. He did not give any alms to the beggars even though they were very poor.
d. In spite of his poor eyesight, he reads a lot.
e. He continued playing in spite of his ten attempts.
f. He refused to eat anything despite being hungry.
g. He could not score good grades in the SEE exams in spite of studying hard.
h. She accepted the job although it was very far from her house.
i. Even though we had planned everything carefully, we missed the train.
Tips for Writing an Autobiography
ReplyDelete1. Plan before you write
• Think about what you want to include: important dates, places, people, and events.
• Make a short outline following the given guidelines (e.g., birth, family, school life, daily routine, special events).
2. Write in first person
• Use “I,” “my,” and “we.”
Example: “I was born in…”
3. Start with basic details
• Begin with your date and place of birth, then describe your family background.
4. Add details about your daily life
• Write what your days were like as a child—school, playing, hobbies, or helping at home.
5. Describe your school life
• Mention your school name, favorite subjects, teachers, and any achievements.
6. Share special memories or events
• Include a happy, funny, or important event from childhood that shaped you.
7. Be honest and simple
• Use simple, clear language. Write what really happened and what you truly felt.
8. Keep it organized
• Use short paragraphs for each topic (birth, family, daily life, school, special event).
9. Add feelings and reflections
• Say how you felt then and what those memories mean to you now.
10. End with a conclusion
• Wrap up by saying how your childhood shaped who you are today.
Write a short autobiography featuring your childhood life using the following guidelines.
ReplyDeleteMy Childhood Autobiography
I was born on March 15, 2008, in a small town called Jitpursimara, located in the Bara district of Nepal. My family is a middle-class family rooted in traditional values. My father is a teacher, and my mother is a homemaker. I also have an elder sister who has always guided and supported me.
My daily life during childhood was simple yet full of joy. I used to wake up early, help my mother with small household chores, and then get ready for school. After school, I played with my friends in the nearby field and did my homework in the evening.
I started my school life at Brighter Academy, where I studied from kindergarten onwards. I was an active student, always participating in school programs, sports, and quiz competitions. I loved English and Science the most.
One of the most memorable events of my childhood was when I won first prize in a speech competition during the annual school function. My parents were very proud of me, and I still remember the happiness on their faces.
My childhood was filled with love, care, and beautiful memories that I will always treasure. These moments have helped shape who I am today.
An Autobiography:
ReplyDeleteDefinition:
An autobiography is a true story of someone’s life, written by that person themselves.
Purpose:
• To share life experiences, memories, and important events.
• To reflect on one’s life journey, successes, struggles, and lessons learned.
Key features:
• Written in the first person (“I,” “my,” “we”).
• Includes real facts about the writer’s life (date of birth, family, school, work, etc.).
• Often describes childhood, family background, education, career, and special events.
Example:
“I was born in Kathmandu in 2008. My father is a teacher, and my mother is a nurse. When I was a child, I loved playing football with my friends…”
In short:
Autobiography = your life story, written by you, in your own words.
Brief summary of “Every Morning I Wake” by Dylan Thomas:
ReplyDeleteEvery morning, the poet wakes and offers a prayer not just for himself, but for everyone—both the living and the dead. Through this daily ritual, he expresses compassion and a deep desire for universal peace and comfort. The poem reflects the poet’s awareness of mortality and the shared human condition, using simple words to convey a profound hope for harmony among all souls.
The central idea of the poem “Every Morning I Wake” by Dylan Thomas:
ReplyDeleteThe poem expresses the poet’s daily act of prayerful reflection, in which he asks for peace and comfort not only for himself but for all people, both living and dead. It highlights the poet’s sense of compassion, interconnectedness of humanity, and awareness of life’s fragility. Through this simple morning ritual, the poet shows a universal longing for harmony and spiritual solace shared by all human beings.
About the poet: Dylan Thomas
ReplyDelete• Full name: Dylan Marlais Thomas
• Born: 27 October 1914, Swansea, Wales
• Died: 9 November 1953, New York City, USA
-Dylan Thomas was a celebrated Welsh poet known for his rich, musical language and powerful imagery.
-His poetry often explores themes like nature, childhood, death, and the passage of time.
-Some of his famous works include:
• Do not go gentle into that good night
• Fern Hill
• And death shall have no dominion
-Besides poetry, he also wrote short stories, radio plays (notably Under Milk Wood), and prose.
-Thomas had a distinctive style, marked by emotional intensity and lyrical beauty, making his work widely admired and memorable.
Specific Rules of Subject–Verb Agreement
ReplyDeleteRule 1: Singular subjects take singular verbs; plural subjects take plural verbs
• He runs fast. (singular subject → singular verb)
• They run fast. (plural subject → plural verb)
Rule 2: Subjects joined by ‘and’ usually take a plural verb
• John and Mary are coming.
Exception: If the two parts refer to the same person/thing or form a single idea, use a singular verb:
• Bread and butter is my breakfast.
• The poet and philosopher is dead. (referring to the same person)
Rule 3: Subjects joined by ‘or’, ‘either...or’, ‘neither...nor’ take a verb that agrees with the nearer subject
• Neither the teacher nor the students are present. (students → plural)
• Either the boys or the girl is coming. (girl → singular)
Rule 4: Words like ‘each’, ‘every’, ‘everyone’, ‘someone’, ‘anyone’, ‘nobody’, ‘everybody’, etc., are singular
• Each of the students is ready.
• Everybody loves music.
Rule 5: ‘A number of’ vs. ‘The number of’
• A number of students are absent. (means many students)
• The number of students is large. (focuses on the total number)
Rule 6: Collective nouns can take singular or plural verbs depending on meaning
• The team is winning. (considered as a single unit)
• The team are fighting among themselves. (considered as individuals)
Rule 7: Uncountable nouns always take singular verbs
• Milk is good for health.
• Honesty is the best policy.
Rule 8: Titles of books, movies, or countries take singular verbs
• The United States is a large country.
• “The Lord of the Rings” is my favorite book.
Rule 9: Amounts of time, money, distance, weight usually take singular verbs
• Ten rupees is a small amount.
• Five kilometers is a long walk.
Rule 10: When ‘one of’ is used, the verb agrees with the noun that follows
• One of my friends is coming.
B. Rewrite the following sentences with the correct form of the verbs in the
ReplyDeletebrackets.
a.
The invitation is for one person. I don’t mind whether you or she (come)
to the party.
b.
Neither the MPs nor the Prime Minister (have) felt regret for the party split.
c.
I don’t care whether he or she (win) the lottery.
d.
Either the Kantipur or the Republica (be) used for the advertisement.
e.
She speaks in a strange accent. Neither I nor my sister (understand) her.
f.
I forgot whether the singers or the actress (be) given the Film Fair Award
last year.
g.
Neither the tracksuit nor the pajamas (fit) me perfectly.
h.
Neither the gas fire nor the electric heaters (be) suitable for room heating.
C. This passage contains the agreement errors. Correct the subjects or verbs that
don’t agree with each other. Remember to use present tense in your corrections.
Within the state of Arizona, Rob, along with his family, move frequently, from city
to city. After his arrival, one of his first tasks are to find an apartment close to work
as he do not have a car. Usually, there is many different places to choose from, and
he consider cost, location, and luxury. If one apartment has a washing machine and
dryer and cost four hundred dollars a month, he prefer to rent it over another apartment
which have significantly less rent located two blocks from a Laundromat. Rob's family
never wants to live in an apartment on the thirteenth floor since all of them fears
heights. He also try to choose an apartment with landlords recommended by former
tenants. Everybody know that it is important to find a responsible landlord. Rob and
his wife loves to cook together when both is free, so he need a spacious, well-equipped
kitchen. Rob often also look for a place with an air conditioner because there is so
many scorching days and nights in Arizona. Whenever Rob find a new apartment, all
of his concerns disappears. He feel relieved and call his mother. Someone understands!
Word Classes:
ReplyDelete1. Nouns (names of people, places, things, ideas)
• book
• teacher
• happiness
• Kathmandu
• elephant
2. Pronouns (words that replace nouns)
• he
• she
• it
• they
• we
3. Verbs (action or state words)
• run
• write
• think
• is
• build
4. Adjectives (words that describe nouns)
• beautiful
• tall
• red
• old
• interesting
5. Adverbs (words that describe verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs)
• quickly
• very
• silently
• always
• well
6. Prepositions (show relationship between words)
• on
• under
• between
• in
• at
7. Conjunctions (join words, phrases, or clauses)
• and
• but
• or
• because
• although
8. Interjections (short exclamations that express feelings)
• oh!
• wow!
• hey!
• ouch!
• alas!
Write the central theme of the poem' I Was My Own Route'
ReplyDeleteCentral Theme
The poem “I Was My Own Route” explores the theme of female self-liberation and empowerment. Julia de Burgos expresses her determination to break away from the traditional, patriarchal expectations imposed on women by society. She rejects the predefined paths and roles set by cultural norms and chooses instead to create her own unique path in life.
The poet highlights the struggle of freeing oneself from external constraints and the courage it takes to assert one's individuality. Through her bold declaration of independence, Burgos celebrates self-discovery, self-determination, and personal freedom as essential for authentic existence.
A short summary of the poem "I Was My Own Route"
ReplyDeleteIn the poem, the speaker reflects on her decision to reject the traditional path set by society for women. Instead of following those imposed roles and expectations, she chooses to create her own path, even though it is lonely and challenging. She asserts her independence and celebrates her journey of self-discovery and freedom, showing courage to be true to herself despite societal pressures.
Summary
ReplyDelete‘I Was My Own Route’ is a poem written by Julia de Burgos, a writer of Carolina. Puerto Rico, who collected the experiences of a literary writer, journalist and the freedom fighter. Her poems are full of racial and gender sentiments where she provokes the equality between male and female and the black and the white race. She has been also regarded as a contemporary Latino writer who depicts how the women are burdened with the patriarchal ideologies from the past. Therefore, de Burgos urges the women to detach themselves from the past so as to redefine their own identity.
The poem ‘I was My Own Route’ has altogether 6 stanzas. Each stanza expresses the powerful feelings of the poet who is always remaining in between masculinity and her own femininity. She begins her poem reflecting her past feelings when she wished to convert herself as the wishes of the men. In such acts, she has found a hide and seek game between her own instinct and the instinct of the patriarchal society. The same game inspired herself to move forward to investigate a new path that is totally new for all. Though it is challenging, she joyfully accepted it.
In discovering a new path, she moves alone mainly to get her internal happiness and a feeling of intimate liberation. She has described her journey to a new path beautifully where she faced a serious problem in balancing herself and the truth of the time. However, she expresses her joy in discovering a new route of her life that has no history, even she doubts for its future. Anyways she is happy enough living in the present and waiting for the response of the time. To denote this, she has repeated a line in the poem. “a game of hide and seek with my being but l was made of nows”. This refrain has captured the main essence of the poem. The poem is written in free verse and it is the perfect example of a poem of the marginalized community.
Summary of the poem “Soft Storm” by Abhi Subedi:
ReplyDeleteThe poem "Soft Storm" by Nepali poet Abhi Subedi vividly describes the poet’s experience of walking through Kathmandu during a gentle, almost tender rainstorm. This “soft storm” becomes a metaphor for the poet’s reflections on society, change, and human indifference.
As he walks, the poet observes scenes that reveal both beauty and suffering: a beggar shivering in the rain, a disfigured woman shielding herself from public gaze, a stupa crowned with pigeons, and a television broadcasting dramatic news. The gentle rain seems to soften the harsh realities around him but cannot wash them away.
The poet also reflects on inner and outer turmoil: while the rain calms the dust and heat outside, it stirs deeper thoughts and emotions within. The storm is “soft” because it does not bring destruction, yet it silently exposes social injustice, spiritual emptiness, and the poet’s own helplessness.
In the end, the poem blends observation with introspection, showing the poet’s sensitivity to his surroundings and his quiet resistance against apathy and insensitivity in society. The “soft storm” thus becomes a symbol of silent protest and deep contemplation in a restless world.
Central theme of the poem "Soft Storm" by Abhi Subedi:
ReplyDeleteThe central theme of the poem is the conflict between human insensitivity and the poet’s inner sensitivity in a rapidly changing, restless society. Through the metaphor of a gentle, almost comforting storm, the poet reflects on the contrasts of beauty and suffering, calmness and turmoil, hope and despair that he observes around him.
The “soft storm” represents a subtle but powerful inner awakening and silent protest against social injustice, apathy, and moral decay. While the world seems busy and indifferent—even during a calming rain—the poet’s heart feels deeply for the poor, the marginalized, and the spiritual emptiness he witnesses.
In essence, the poem highlights how external calmness (soft rain) can stir internal turbulence, making us question human values, societal change, and our own responses to suffering and injustice. The poet’s sensitivity stands in quiet resistance to the harshness and indifference of the world.
Main Crux (essence) of the poem "Soft Storm" by Abhi Subedi in simple words:
ReplyDelete-While walking in a soft, calming rain, the poet observes scenes of human suffering, indifference, and social injustice around him.
-The “soft storm” becomes a symbol of his silent protest and deep inner sensitivity to these realities.
- Although the rain calms the dust outside, it awakens emotions and reflections inside the poet, highlighting the contrast between a restless, insensitive society and his own compassionate heart.
- Ultimately, the poem expresses the idea that even small, quiet moments (like soft rain) can inspire deep awareness and quiet resistance against the harshness and apathy of the world.
Summary of "Corona Says"
ReplyDeleteThe poem “Corona Says” is written in free verse from the perspective of the coronavirus itself. In the poem, Corona speaks directly to human beings, explaining that it did not come to the earth on its own, but was invited and spread by human activities.
Corona criticizes humans for their selfishness, exploitation of nature, and endless greed that led to environmental destruction. It says that its arrival has forced humans to stop and reflect on their actions: closing factories, emptying streets, and grounding airplanes. Through this pause, nature is able to heal — rivers become cleaner, the air becomes fresher, and animals reclaim spaces once lost to human encroachment.
The poem warns that if humans do not learn from this experience and continue harming nature, more disasters may follow. Corona’s ultimate message is that humans must live in harmony with nature and respect the limits of the environment to ensure a sustainable future.
Central Theme:
ReplyDeleteThe poem centers on the consequences of human greed, exploitation of nature, and environmental destruction. Through the voice of the coronavirus, the poem reminds us that humanity’s selfish actions have led to ecological imbalance and suffering.
Corona’s arrival serves as a warning and an opportunity for self-reflection: it forces humans to pause, reconsider their ways, and realize the importance of living in harmony with nature. The poet conveys that unless humans learn to respect natural limits and live sustainably, similar crises may continue to threaten the world.
In short:
The central theme highlights the need for ecological balance, sustainable living, and respect for nature to protect life on Earth.
Corona Says" कविताको सारांश (नेपालीमा)
ReplyDelete"Corona Says" कवितामा कोरोनाभाइरसले नै आफ्ना विचार व्यक्त गर्छ। कोरोना भन्छ कि आफू आफैं यहाँ आएको होइन, मान्छेहरूले आफ्नो स्वार्थ, लोभ र प्रकृतिप्रतिको निर्दय व्यवहारका कारण आफैंलाई बोलाए । मान्छेहरूले निरन्तर उद्योग, यातायात, र अन्य गतिविधिबाट पृथ्वीलाई प्रदूषित गर्दै वातावरण बिगारेका छन्।
कोरोना आउँदा संसारभरि उद्योग, बाटो, विमानस्थल आदि बन्द भए, जसका कारण वातावरण सफा भयो, नदीहरू स्वच्छ भए, र जनावरहरू फेरि स्वतन्त्रतापूर्वक घुम्न पाए।
कविताले मान्छेलाई चेतावनी दिन्छ कि यदि उनीहरूले अझै पनि आफ्नो आचरण परिवर्तन गरेनन् भने भविष्यमा अझ ठूलो विपत्ति आउन सक्छ। यसैले मानिसले प्रकृतिसँग मित्रता गर्दै, सन्तुलन र सम्मानका साथ जीवन यापन गर्नुपर्छ भन्ने सन्देश दिएको छ।
A. Based on Structure
ReplyDelete• Yes/No Questions
• Ask for confirmation; answered with "yes" or "no".
• Example:
– Are you coming?
– Did he finish his homework?
• Wh- Questions
• Start with question words like who, what, where, when, why, which, whose, how; ask for specific information.
• Example:
– Where do you live?
– How did you do that?
• Alternative Questions
• Offer choices; usually joined by or.
• Example:
– Would you like tea or coffee?
– Is she coming by bus or by train?
• Tag Questions
• A statement followed by a short question tag to confirm or check information.
• Example:
– You’re a student, aren’t you?
– It’s cold today, isn’t it?
• Embedded/Indirect Questions
• Questions included inside another sentence; more polite.
• Example:
– Could you tell me where he lives?
– Do you know if she has arrived?
B. Based on Purpose
• Open-ended Questions
• Allow detailed answers.
• Example:
– What do you think about this book?
• Closed-ended Questions
• Limited to “yes/no” or brief choice answers.
• Example:
– Do you like ice cream?
• Rhetorical Questions
• Asked for effect; do not expect an answer.
• Example:
– Who doesn’t want to be happy?
Summary
ReplyDeletePoem "Corona Says" by Vishnu Singh Rai
The poem "Corona Says" by Vishnu Singh Rai is a subtle satire that reflects on human behavior and attitude. It is based on the current global crisis caused by the coronavirus pandemic and highlights its severe impact on human life. The poem presents the pandemic as a result of how humans have treated nature, showing it as a consequence of their own actions.
In the poem, the speaker is Corona itself, speaking directly to humans. Corona explains that it is not the actual cause of human suffering, but rather the result of human misdeeds. It tells humans that it did not come to Earth by choice but was invited due to their careless behavior. Corona criticizes humans for their wars, destruction, and ego, and highlights their disregard for other living beings and natural resources.
The poem also discusses pollution and the environmental damage caused by humans. Corona says it has come to give the Earth a break and help people realize that the planet does not belong to them alone. It warns that if humans don’t change their ways and stop being so self-centered, more such diseases may come in the future, pushing humanity backward instead of forward.
. How does the poem "Corona Says" present the pandemic as a result of human actions? Explain with reference to
ReplyDeleteAnswer:
The poem "Corona Says" by Vishnu Singh Rai is a thought-provoking and satirical piece that presents the COVID-19 pandemic not merely as a health crisis but as a consequence of human misconduct and mistreatment of nature. The poem is unique in its perspective as it personifies the virus ‘Corona’ and makes it the speaker who addresses humanity directly.
Corona begins by stating that it is not the root cause of human suffering but rather a result of human behavior. It tries to convince humans that the destruction caused by the pandemic is not its own intention but the outcome of human ignorance, ego, and exploitation of nature. The virus says it did not come to the earth on its own will but was invited by humans themselves. This highlights the poet's idea that the outbreak is linked to human actions such as pollution, wars, and the disregard for other living beings.
The poem emphasizes the inflated ego of mankind, which considers itself superior to all other creatures and believes that the Earth exists solely for its benefit. Humans, blinded by their materialistic desires, have been exploiting nature for centuries. Through the voice of Corona, the poet reminds readers that the Earth is not human property alone—it belongs to all living beings.
Corona criticizes humans for damaging the environment and disturbing the balance of nature. It notes how the Earth and nature have found a brief moment of rest due to the lockdowns and reduced human activities during the pandemic. Pollution decreased, animals roamed freely, and nature began to heal. This implies that the Earth is better off without the destructive interference of humans.
Furthermore, the virus warns that if humans do not change their ways and continue to act selfishly, other similar or more dangerous diseases might follow. The poem ends with a serious warning: if humans do not give up their pride and learn to live in harmony with nature, they may eventually push themselves back to the primitive cave life.
In conclusion, the poem “Corona Says” is not just about a virus, but about self-reflection. It is a powerful message from nature, urging humans to reconsider their actions, respect all forms of life, and protect the environment before it’s too late.
Why did the speaker try to be the way men wanted her to be?
ReplyDeleteThe speaker initially tried to conform to the expectations of men because she lived in a male-dominated society. However, as a modern and independent woman, she disliked being a puppet of patriarchal norms. Eventually, she chose to resist and fight against the dominance of men.
b. What do you understand by her feet ‘would not accept walking backwards’?
The phrase "her feet would not accept walking backwards" means she refused to go back to a submissive life controlled by men. Instead, she chose to move forward, carving a new path of equality and freedom for herself and for other women.
c. Who are the old guards? Why did they grow desperate?
The "old guards" refer to the traditional, conservative individuals in a male-dominated society who view women as inferior. They grew desperate because the speaker, Julia, was courageously moving forward, challenging their authority and striving for women's liberation.
d. How did the speaker have ‘a feeling of intimate liberation’?
The speaker experienced a feeling of deep personal freedom as she stepped away from the traditional path set by men. Despite the pain and difficulties, creating her own path gave her a sense of empowerment and liberation.
e. Why did the speaker’s desire to follow men warp in her?
The speaker's desire to follow men faded because she recognized the restrictive rules imposed on women by male-dominated ideologies. She longed for independence, happiness, and the chance to realize her own potential—freed from the limitations set by men—so she rejected their control.
In the poem I Was My Own Route by Julia de Burgos, the speaker initially tried to be the way men wanted her to be because society expected women to follow traditional, male-defined roles. She felt pressured to fit into these expectations. However, as a modern and self-aware woman, she realized that conforming meant losing her identity and freedom. This led her to reject those imposed roles and create her own path, seeking liberation from male dominance.
ReplyDeleteMain Theme
ReplyDeletePoem: Corona Says by Vishnu Singh Rai
Question: What is the theme of the poem Corona Says by Vishnu Singh Rai?
The central theme of the poem is the global crisis caused by the coronavirus (COVID-19) and its severe impact on human life. The poem delivers a subtle satire highlighting human behavior and attitude. It suggests that the pandemic is a consequence of humankind's irresponsible treatment of nature.
Format of a news article
ReplyDelete1. Headline
• A short, catchy, and clear title that summarizes the main news.
• Should attract readers’ attention.
• Example: "Local School Wins National Science Award"
2. Byline
• Tells who wrote the article.
• Example: By Raju Karki
3. Dateline
• States the place and date where the news is reported from.
• Example: SIMARA, Aug 11
4. Lead (Opening Paragraph)
• Answers the 5 W’s and 1 H:
• Who?
• What?
• When?
• Where?
• Why?
• How?
• Should give the most important facts in 2–3 sentences.
• Example:
Brighter Academy students won first place in the National Science Fair held in Kathmandu on Sunday, impressing judges with their innovative solar-powered water filter.
5. Body (Supporting Details)
• Arranged in the inverted pyramid style:
• Most important facts first.
• Less important details later.
• Background information and quotes at the end.
• Includes:
• Quotes from people involved
• Additional facts
• Statistics or figures
• Background/context
6. Conclusion
• Wraps up the story.
• Can give future plans, expected outcomes, or final remarks.
Example Layout:
Headline: Brighter Academy Students Shine at National Science Fair
Byline: By Raju Karki Dateline: SIMARA, Aug 11
Lead: Brighter Academy students won first place in the National Science Fair held in Kathmandu on Sunday, impressing judges with their innovative solar-powered water filter.
Body: The competition featured over 50 schools from across the country. The Brighter Academy team, led by Kritika and Kritiman, developed the filter to provide clean drinking water in rural areas. “We wanted to create something that could help people in villages where electricity is not available,” said Kritika. The winning project will be showcased in the International Science Exhibition next month in India.
Conclusion: The school plans to continue supporting student-led innovations and will introduce a special science research club next academic year.
Headline:
ReplyDeleteDigital Payment Systems Surge in Nepal’s Growing Economy
Byline:
By Raju Karki
Dateline:
KATHMANDU, Aug 11
Lead:
Digital payment in Nepal has seen a sharp rise in recent years as more people shift from cash transactions to online and mobile-based payment systems. Improved internet access, increased smartphone use, and government support have fueled this transformation in the country’s financial sector.
Body:
According to the Nepal Rastra Bank, mobile banking transactions increased by over 40% in the past year, with popular platforms such as eSewa, Khalti, and FonePay leading the market. Banks and financial institutions are rapidly integrating QR code payments, online banking apps, and e-wallet services to meet public demand.
Digital payment has not only made financial transactions faster but also contributed to transparency, reduced cash handling risks, and encouraged small businesses to join the formal economy.
“I no longer have to carry large amounts of cash,” said Sunita Shrestha, a shop owner in Kathmandu. “Customers prefer paying via QR code, and it’s safe and convenient for everyone.”
The government has also launched initiatives to promote a cashless economy, including tax incentives for businesses using digital transactions. However, challenges such as limited internet access in rural areas, low digital literacy, and cyber-security threats remain.
Conclusion:
Experts believe that with continued infrastructure development, awareness campaigns, and secure payment technologies, Nepal can achieve a largely cashless economy within the next decade.
Use of the following frequency adverbs..
ReplyDelete1. Always
• Meaning: 100% of the time
• Position: Before the main verb / after be verb
• Example: She always wakes up early.
• (She is always kind to everyone.)
2. Usually / Generally
• Meaning: About 80–90% of the time
• Position: Before the main verb / after be verb
• Example: I generally take tea in the morning.
3. Often / Frequently
• Meaning: About 60–80% of the time
• Position: Before the main verb / after be verb
• Example: We often go for a walk in the evening.
• (He is frequently late to class.)
4. Sometimes
• Meaning: About 40–50% of the time
• Position: Can be at the start, middle, or end of a sentence
• Example: Sometimes, I forget my keys. I sometimes play guitar.
5. Occasionally / From time to time / Now and then
• Meaning: About 20–30% of the time
• Position: Usually at the beginning or end, but can be before the main verb
• Example: She travels abroad occasionally.
• (I meet him from time to time.)
6. Rarely / Seldom
• Meaning: About 5–10% of the time (almost never)
• Position: Before the main verb / after be verb
• Example: He rarely eats fast food.
7. Never
• Meaning: 0% of the time
• Position: Before the main verb / after be verb
• Example: I never smoke. / She is never late.
8. Ever
• Meaning: At any time (used mainly in questions and negatives)
• Position: After have/has/had or before the main verb in questions
• Example: Have you ever been to Pokhara?
• (Nobody ever calls me.)
Quick Frequency Chart (Most to Least)
Always → Usually/Generally → Often/Frequently → Sometimes → Occasionally → Rarely/Seldom → Never
The central idea of Stephen L. Nock’s essay “Marriage is a Social Institution” is that marriage is more than just a private relationship between two individuals—it is a structured social institution that reflects and reinforces cultural norms, social expectations, and legal frameworks. Nock emphasizes that marriage shapes behavior, defines roles, and creates social stability by linking personal commitment to broader societal values. In other words, marriage functions not only to unite two people emotionally but also to serve society by organizing family life, legitimizing parenthood, and passing on traditions and responsibilities.
ReplyDeleteUnderstanding the text
ReplyDeletea. According to the author, what is marriage?
According to Stephen L. Nock, marriage is a socially recognized union between two individuals that establishes rights and obligations between them, their children, and their in-laws. It is a socially approved relationship that is regulated by norms and laws.
b. How is marriage an institution?
Marriage is an institution because it is a structured and enduring social arrangement governed by rules, norms, and expectations that define the roles and responsibilities of partners within a society.
c. What are the rules that a marriage has?
A marriage has rules regarding sexual exclusivity, mutual support, shared responsibilities, rights to property, child-rearing, and loyalty to one another.
d. Why does marriage matter to men?
Marriage matters to men because it provides them with social status, stability, legitimacy in fatherhood, and emotional as well as economic benefits. It also connects them to broader social networks.
e. What is one of the central problems in modern society?
One of the central problems in modern society is the decline of marriage as a stable institution, leading to weakened family bonds and reduced social cohesion.
f. What does social capital consist of?
Social capital consists of the networks, relationships, trust, and norms that enable individuals to work together for mutual benefit and strengthen community ties.
g. What is normative marriage? Explain.
Normative marriage refers to the socially accepted model of marriage that follows traditional patterns—typically monogamous, heterosexual, lifelong, publicly acknowledged, and legally recognized, with clearly defined roles for husbands and wives.
a. What is the main theme of the story?
ReplyDeleteThe main theme of The Selfish Giant is selfishness and love. It tells the story of a selfish giant who transforms into a kind and selfless one. At first, the giant is cruel and refuses to let children play in his beautiful garden, locking its gates. However, when the children stop coming, the garden loses its beauty and never experiences spring again. Realizing his mistake, the giant allows the children to return, and the garden blossoms once more. This change helps him understand the true meaning of love and sharing. The story reflects human nature—how we often hesitate to share with those in need. It teaches that by showing love and compassion, we can receive love in return.
One memorable event of contagious laughter in my life happened during a class picnic. We were all sitting together after lunch, sharing jokes and funny stories. One of my friends tried to tell a joke, but he mispronounced a word in such a hilarious way that we all burst out laughing. The more we laughed, the harder it became to stop. Even those who didn’t hear the joke started laughing just by looking at our faces. For several minutes, the whole group was caught up in uncontrollable laughter, with tears rolling down our cheeks. That moment reminded me how powerful and joyful shared laughter can be, and it remains one of the happiest memories of my school life.
ReplyDeleteMy favorite comedian is Kedar Ghimire, popularly known by his stage name “Magne Budha.” He is one of the most recognized comedians, actors, directors, and social workers in Nepal. Besides this, he is also a talented playwright and director. He gained immense popularity from the TV serial Meri Bassai, which became one of the most successful serials in Nepal because of funny and entertaining characters like him. His natural humor and acting skills always make people laugh whenever they watch him perform. Even after leaving Meri Bassai, he continued his success by acting in blockbuster movies like Chha Ekan Chha and Wada Number Chha. Nepali audiences admire his unique acting style, charm, and contribution to society. Apart from his career in comedy, he is also known for his social work. After the devastating earthquake, he actively supported victims by helping those in need and even building houses for disaster and pandemic-affected families. His combination of humor, talent, and humanitarian work makes him truly special and admirable.
ReplyDeleteSummary of The Selfish Giant by Oscar Wilde:
ReplyDeleteThe story is about a giant who owns a beautiful garden where children love to play. One day, the selfish giant builds a high wall around the garden and forbids the children from entering. As a result, spring never comes to his garden—only winter remains with snow, frost, and cold winds.
One morning, the giant sees that the children have found a way into his garden through a hole in the wall, and with them comes spring—flowers bloom and birds sing. Realizing his mistake, the giant feels sorry for his selfishness. He breaks down the wall and welcomes the children, sharing his garden with them happily.
Later, the giant grows old and weak. One day, he finds a special child with wounds on his hands and feet, who tells the giant that he has come to take him to Paradise. The giant dies peacefully, and his soul rests in eternal happiness.
✨ Moral: The story teaches us the values of love, kindness, and selflessness. True joy comes from sharing and caring for others.
Short Summary of Knowledge and Wisdom by Bertrand Russell:
ReplyDeleteIn this essay, Bertrand Russell explains the difference between knowledge and wisdom. Knowledge means being aware of facts and information, while wisdom is the ability to use knowledge in the right way for the well-being of oneself and others. A person may be highly knowledgeable in science, art, or politics, but without wisdom, their knowledge can be misused and harmful.
Russell points out that wisdom involves good judgment, foresight, a sense of proportion, freedom from personal prejudices, and sympathy for others. He emphasizes that wisdom helps us to avoid arrogance, prevent conflicts, and make life better for all. Therefore, knowledge must be guided by wisdom to be truly valuable.
Moral/Message: Knowledge alone is not enough; it becomes meaningful only when it is combined with wisdom.
Who is the writer of Knowledge and Wisdom, Bertrand Russell?
ReplyDeleteBertrand Arthur William Russell (1872–1970) was a British philosopher, logician, essayist, and social critic. He is best known for his contributions to mathematical logic and analytic philosophy.
Some of his most important works include promoting logicism (the belief that mathematics can be reduced to logic), improving Gottlob Frege’s predicate calculus (which is still the foundation of modern logic), and defending neutral monism (the idea that the world is made up of a single substance that is neither only mental nor only physical).
Russell also developed theories on definite descriptions, logical atomism, and logical types, making him one of the most influential thinkers of the 20th century.
Bertrand Russell's essay "Knowledge and Wisdom" explores the distinction between possessing information (knowledge) and using that information with good judgment and insight (wisdom). He argues that while knowledge is valuable, wisdom is crucial for navigating life and promoting a better world. Russell emphasizes that wisdom involves cultivating a broader perspective, overcoming selfishness, and developing empathy and understanding for others. He suggests that education should aim to foster both knowledge and wisdom, encouraging individuals to think critically and see themselves as global citizens.
ReplyDeleteHere's a more detailed breakdown:
Knowledge:
Refers to the accumulation of facts, information, and skills.
Can be acquired through formal education, experience, or observation.
Provides the raw material for understanding, but doesn't guarantee its proper use.
Wisdom:
Goes beyond mere knowledge to encompass good judgment, insight, and the ability to apply knowledge effectively.
Involves a broader perspective, transcending narrow self-interest.
Requires empathy, understanding, and the ability to consider the consequences of actions.
Russell suggests that wisdom can be fostered through education that encourages critical thinking, empathy, and a sense of global citizenship.
Russell's key points:
The importance of perspective:
Wisdom involves seeing things in relation to a larger context, rather than just in isolation.
Overcoming selfishness:
Wisdom requires moving beyond immediate self-interest and considering the needs and perspectives of others.
The role of education:
Education should not only impart knowledge but also cultivate wisdom by promoting critical thinking, empathy, and a global outlook.
The dangers of hatred and narrow-mindedness:
Russell highlights how hatred and prejudice can hinder wisdom and lead to harmful actions.
The potential for human progress:
He believes that by fostering both knowledge and wisdom, humanity can move towards a more enlightened and peaceful future.
1. Garbage management is a big problem in most of the cities in Nepal. Write a letter to the editor to be published in the daily newspaper suggesting the ways of ‘Solving Garbage Problems.’
ReplyDeleteSimara, Bara
26th Jan, 2021
To
The Editor,
The Rising Nepal
Sub: Regarding the news coverage about ‘Solving Garbage Problems’
Dear Sir,
I would be grateful if you allow a little space in your widely circulated and popular newspaper. In order to draw the attention of the general public as well as the concerned authority of the government to the problem of garbage management in Simara and other towns of Bara district, I am writing you this.
We know that we have a serious garbage problem. It is clear that there will be no value from waste, as energy or material, if it is not segregated. But this is where our waste management system stops short. The problem of waste is something that needs to be handled on a smaller scale and aggregated to solve the bigger problem. Waste-pickers already contribute greatly to solving this problem. We need to tap into their capacity.
An IT platform like I Got Garbage can build business models for waste-pickers. Instead of picking and dumping garbage from each house, the government can provide subsidy and give every home a composter. Landfill sites can never be a solution to solid waste in towns as it is an outdated idea. Reduce, Reuse and Recycle are the most common methods to reduce landfill waste. 80 percent of organic waste littering the streets can be used if the government cooperates with pig farmers in our area. I wonder why the authorities are not adopting this method.
As long as governments try cleaning the city by doing the same things they always did and say they will do it better this time, the city won't become cleaner. We need something dramatically different.
I hope the concerned authorities in Simara and Bara will make appropriate steps immediately.
Looking forward to seeing an article in this regard in your upcoming publication.
Faithfully yours,
ABC
My School Library
ReplyDeleteThe library of my school is one of my favorite places. It is well managed and full of useful books. There are story books, course books, reference books, magazines, and newspapers for the students. Our librarian is very kind and helpful. She always encourages us to read good books. The library is neat, quiet, and peaceful, so it is the best place for study. Whenever I get free time, I go to the library to read interesting books. It helps me to gain knowledge, develop reading habits, and improve my vocabulary. Truly, my school library is a treasure house of knowledge.
Paragraph Writing Template
1. Topic Sentence (Introduction)
• My __________ is very __________.
• It is __________ and __________.
2. Supporting Sentences (Details / Examples)
• It has __________.
• We can __________ there.
• People like it because __________.
• I often __________ in my __________.
• It helps me to __________.
3. Concluding Sentence (Ending)
• So, my __________ is very important to me.
• I love my __________ very much.
Example: My School Library (filled in)
• My school library is very big and useful.
• It is quiet and peaceful.
• It has many books, magazines, and newspapers.
• We can read and borrow books there.
• Students like it because it helps us in our study.
• I often read story books in my library.
• It helps me to gain knowledge and improve vocabulary.
• So, my school library is very important to me.
• I love my school library very much.
Format of a Paragraph
• Topic Sentence
• The first sentence introduces the main idea of the paragraph.
• Example: “The library is the most important part of my school.”
• Supporting Sentences
• Add details, facts, examples, or reasons to explain the topic.
• Example: “It has many books, magazines, and newspapers for students. The library is neat, peaceful, and a good place to study.”
• Concluding Sentence
• The last sentence sums up the idea or gives your opinion.
• Example: “Thus, the library is a treasure house of knowledge for all students.”
English Grammar Practice Worksheet
ReplyDeleteTopic: Comparatives, Superlatives, and 'as ... as' Structures
Instructions: Rewrite the following sentences as directed. Write your answers in the spaces
provided.
A. Use 'not as ... as'
1. This bag is cheaper than that one. ➡ This bag is not ……………………………
2. The film was more interesting than the book. ➡ The film was not ……………………………
3. Rina is younger than she looks. ➡ Rina is not ……………………………
B. Use comparative + than
4. Krishna is tall. Ram is taller. ➡ Ram is ……………………………
5. The river Bagmati is long. The Koshi is longer. ➡ The Koshi is ……………………………
6. My house is big. Your house is bigger. ➡ Your house is ……………………………
C. Use superlatives
7. Everest is higher than any other mountain in the world. ➡ Everest is ……………………………
8. This shop is cheaper than all other shops in the town. ➡ This is ……………………………
9. Ramesh runs faster than anyone in the school. ➡ Ramesh is ……………………………
D. Mix practice
10. The exam was easier than I expected. ➡ The exam was not ……………………………
11. My father works more than my uncle. ➡ My uncle doesn’t ……………………………
12. Today is colder than yesterday, but tomorrow will be the coldest. ➡ Tomorrow will be
……………………………
MONTHLY TEST-2082
ReplyDeleteQuestion Tags (2 marks)
a) Let’s go to the library, shall we?
b) You haven’t completed the homework, have you?
Modal Verbs (2 marks)
a) We must obey our parents.
b) When she was young, she could play the piano very well.
Determiners/Quantifiers (2 marks)
a) There aren’t many students in the playground.
b) Each player was given a medal.
Subject–Verb Agreement (2 marks)
a) Modern technology makes people’s lives easier.
b) Neither the computer nor the printer is working properly.
Connectives (1 mark)
a) He was absent because he was ill.
Questions (1 mark)
a) Does the bank provide loans to students?
Short Stories (6 marks – any two)
a) The couple’s relationship with their neighbors changed gradually from friendship to enmity. At first, they were on good terms and exchanged visits, but later small disputes about property boundaries and quarrels over petty issues created bitterness and hostility.
b) Mrs. Baroda feels uneasy about Gouvernail because she cannot understand him. He appears mysterious, silent, and indifferent to social conversation. She is also disturbed by her own unexpected attraction toward him, which conflicts with her role as a loyal wife.
c) Rakesh shows devotion and strictness toward his parents by serving them with great love and care, fulfilling their needs, and respecting them. However, he is also strict in controlling his father’s diet and habits for his health, sometimes making his father feel restricted.
Poems (4 marks – any one)
a) In “A Day”, the poet describes the beginning of the day with sunrise, when birds sing and flowers open, symbolizing beauty and hope. The end of the day is described with sunset, when darkness falls and the mysterious closing of the day gives a sense of uncertainty.
OR
b) In “I Was My Own Route”, the speaker rejects the path created by men because it represents tradition, restrictions, and male-dominated rules. She chooses to create her own way in life, symbolizing freedom, independence, and the courage of women to assert their individuality.
Stanza-wise Summary of “Soft Storm” by Abhi Subedi:
ReplyDeleteStanza 1
The poet describes his restless state of mind during a stormy night. Even though the storm is “soft,” it deeply disturbs him. He feels a sense of uneasiness and helplessness when he sees innocent children, beggars, and ordinary people suffering in the city.
Stanza 2
He observes the misery of poor and voiceless people. Innocent children cry for food, and women face humiliation. The poet’s heart aches at the unjust realities of society, where the weak and powerless are neglected.
Stanza 3
The poet shifts his attention to the violence and corruption around him. He sees how powerful people manipulate others for their benefit. The chaos and brutality in society disturb him as much as the storm outside.
Stanza 4
He reflects on human insensitivity. People ignore others’ pain and become selfish. Religious and cultural values, which should guide people, are misused for personal gain. This moral decay troubles the poet.
Stanza 5
The poet criticizes the inhuman acts of war, terrorism, and violence. He mentions massacres, killings, and the abuse of truth. The storm becomes a symbol of the violent forces destroying humanity.
Stanza 6
Despite the darkness, the poet still longs for peace and compassion. He wishes for a humane society where love, justice, and harmony prevail. The storm reminds him that change is possible if people become empathetic.
Short summary of the poem Soft Storm by Abhi Subedi:
ReplyDeleteThe poem expresses the poet’s inner disturbance during a stormy night. The “soft storm” symbolizes his emotional reaction to social injustice, corruption, violence, and human suffering. He feels restless when he sees children crying, women humiliated, beggars starving, and innocent people ignored. The poet also criticizes war, massacre, and the misuse of religion and power. Despite all the darkness, he longs for humanity, compassion, and peace.
. Changing Pronouns
ReplyDelete• Pronouns usually change according to the subject/object of the reporting verb.
• Example:
Direct: He said, “I am happy.”
Indirect: He said that he was happy.
2. Change of Tense
(If the reporting verb is in past tense, the tense of reported speech usually changes one step back.)
• Simple Present → Simple Past
Direct: She said, “I eat mangoes.”
Indirect: She said that she ate mangoes.
• Present Continuous → Past Continuous
Direct: He said, “I am reading.”
Indirect: He said that he was reading.
• Present Perfect → Past Perfect
Direct: They said, “We have finished our work.”
Indirect: They said that they had finished their work.
• Simple Past → Past Perfect
Direct: She said, “I visited Pokhara.”
Indirect: She said that she had visited Pokhara.
• Past Continuous → Past Perfect Continuous
Direct: He said, “I was playing football.”
Indirect: He said that he had been playing football.
Exception: If the reporting verb is in present or future tense, the tense of reported speech does not change.
• Direct: She says, “I am busy.”
• Indirect: She says that she is busy.
3. Change of Time & Place Words
• Now → then
• Today → that day
• Tomorrow → the next day / the following day
• Yesterday → the previous day / the day before
• Next week → the following week
• Last week → the previous week
• Here → there
• This → that
• These → those
Example:
Direct: He said, “I will go tomorrow.”
Indirect: He said that he would go the next day.
4. No Change in Certain Situations
• Universal truths, habitual facts, or scientific facts don’t change tense.
Direct: The teacher said, “The earth moves round the sun.”
Indirect: The teacher said that the earth moves round the sun.
5. Changing Types of Sentences
a) Statements (Declarative)
• Use that in indirect speech.
Direct: She said, “I am tired.”
Indirect: She said that she was tired.
b) Yes/No Questions
• Use if / whether in indirect speech.
Direct: He said, “Are you happy?”
Indirect: He asked if I was happy.
c) Wh-Questions
• Use the same wh-word (what, where, why, when, how).
Direct: She said, “Where are you going?”
Indirect: She asked where I was going.
d) Imperative Sentences (Orders/Requests/Advice)
• Change into to + verb (infinitive).
• Reporting verb changes: said → told, ordered, requested, advised, etc.
Direct: He said, “Open the door.”
Indirect: He ordered me to open the door.
Direct: She said, “Please help me.”
Indirect: She requested me to help her.
e) Exclamatory Sentences
• Use verbs like exclaimed, wished, prayed, etc.
Direct: He said, “What a beautiful flower!”
Indirect: He exclaimed that it was a very beautiful flower.
[14/09, 22:21] Raju Kumar Karki: १.लोकगीत लोकबाजा र लोक नृत्य एकअर्काका परिपरक हुन्। यस भनाइलाई उदाहरण दिई पुष्टि गर्नुहोस्।
ReplyDeleteउत्तर: लोकगीत संगीत र नृत्यमा एउटै कुरा समान छ। त्यो हो लोक यसको मतलब यी सबै लोक वा आम जनतासँग सम्बन्धित छन्। तिनीहरु साधारण मानिसहरूको भावनामा आधारित हुन्छन्। निम्न कारणले लोकगीत नृत्य र संगीत एकअर्काका अभिन्न अङ्ग हुन्।
-लोकगीतहरूमा लोक नृत्यहरू प्रस्तुत गरिन्छन्। त्यसैले लोकगीतले लोक नृत्यको जगको रुपमा काम गर्छन्।
-लोकगीतहरूमा लोकबाजाहरूको प्रयोग गरिन्छ। धेरै लोकगीतहरूमा मादल सारङ्गी र बाँसुरी जस्ता लोकबाजाको प्रयोग गरिन्छ।
-मेला जात्रा र महोत्सवमा लोकगीत लोकबाजा र लोक नृत्य प्रस्तुत गरिन्छ।
-लोकगीत लोकबाजा र लोक नृत्य सबै आम जनतासँग सम्बन्धित छन्।
[14/09, 22:25] Raju Kumar Karki: यसैको अर्को उत्तर:
समाजको सुखदुःख मायापृति र वास्तविक यथार्थलाई समेटेर तयार पारिएको गीतलाई लोकगीत भनिन्छ। लोकगीत गाउँदा प्रयोग गरिने बाजालाई लोकबाजा भनिन्छ। लोकगीत र लोकबाजाको तालमा गरिने नृत्यलाई लोक नृत्य भनिन्छ। यी तीनैवटै एकअर्कामा अन्तरसम्बन्धित भएकोले एकअर्काका परिपूरक हुन्। लोकगीत गाउनका लागि बाजाको आवश्यकता पर्छ बाजाले गीतलाई लय मिलाउन सहयोग पुर्याउँछ गीतको लय ताल र सुर नभैकन बाजा बजाउन सकिँदैन बाजा बजाउन गीतको लय तथा सुर थाहा पाउनुपर्छ। त्यसैगरी नृत्यको लागि गीत र बाजाको आवश्यकता पर्छ। गीत र बाजाको तालमा नृत्य गरिन्छ। गीत र बाजाबिना नृत्यको कुनै औचित्य रहँदैन। एउटाको अभावमा अर्को पूर्ण हुन सक्दैन। साथै पूर्णरूपमा मनोरञ्जन पनि प्रदान गर्न नसक्ने हुनाले लोकगीत लोकबाजा र लोक नृत्य एकअर्काका परिपरक हुन्।
Paraphrase of the Poem 'The Soft Storm'
ReplyDeleteThe poet feels a strange storm rising inside him. It is not a violent, destructive storm, but a soft one—an emotional disturbance that shakes his heart quietly. He feels uneasy and restless because of the things happening around him in society.
He sees hypocrisy everywhere. People who pretend to be religious or holy are actually corrupt and selfish. They use rituals and traditions for their own benefit. This makes him sad and angry.
He also observes the suffering of ordinary, innocent people. The poor and powerless are oppressed, while the rich and powerful misuse their authority. Society has become unjust, and this adds to the storm within him.
In cities, people run after money and material pleasures but ignore values like honesty, humanity, and compassion. Life feels empty, mechanical, and meaningless. This hollowness disturbs him deeply.
The poet cannot ignore the violence and cruelty happening in the world—wars, bloodshed, and political conflicts. He wonders how human beings can commit such acts against one another. This fills him with grief.
He then thinks about children, who are innocent and pure, yet they are forced to grow up in such a polluted society. He feels worried about the future generation living in a world full of hypocrisy and exploitation.
Finally, the poet decides he cannot stay silent. The soft storm inside him comes out through his poetry. Instead of violence, he chooses words as his weapon. His poetry becomes a way to resist injustice, expose contradictions, and express hope for change.
In short:
The poem “Soft Storm” expresses the poet’s inner conflict and emotional response to the corruption, injustice, hypocrisy, violence, and emptiness of modern society. The “storm” is soft because it is expressed through feelings, thoughts, and poetry rather than physical destruction.
Paraphrase of the poem 'Soft Storm' by Abhi Subedi.
ReplyDeleteThe poem deals with the contradictions, chaos, and moral decay in modern society, expressed through the metaphor of a “soft storm.”
Stanza 1
The poet feels restless and disturbed, sensing a storm rising in his mind and surroundings. It is not violent like thunder, but “soft,” quietly unsettling his emotions. He feels suffocated by the injustice and contradictions he observes around him.
Stanza 2
He notices people who misuse religion and rituals for selfish purposes. Hypocrisy is widespread: those who appear holy are actually corrupt. The storm inside him grows stronger as he realizes how values are being degraded.
Stanza 3
The poet sees innocent people suffering—those who are weak and voiceless are oppressed, while the powerful misuse their strength. Society seems divided between those who exploit and those who are exploited. This contradiction fuels his inner turmoil.
Stanza 4
He reflects on the emptiness of urban life. People chase material wealth but ignore morality, humanity, and compassion. The storm is also about this inner vacuum—people live mechanically without deeper meaning.
Stanza 5
The poet notices violence and bloodshed caused by politics, power struggles, and wars. He feels shocked that human beings can commit such acts of cruelty. The storm in his heart becomes heavier with grief.
Stanza 6
He contrasts innocence with corruption. Children, symbols of purity, live in a world spoiled by adult hypocrisy and exploitation. The storm represents his pain for future generations growing up in such an environment.
Stanza 7
Finally, the poet accepts that he cannot remain silent. He expresses his feelings through poetry. The “soft storm” is his way of resisting silently but firmly—raising awareness about injustice, contradictions, and the need for change in society.
Overall Meaning:
The “soft storm” is not an external storm but the poet’s inner conflict and emotional rebellion against corruption, hypocrisy, suffering, and moral decline in society. It is “soft” because it is expressed through poetry and reflection, not violence, yet it is powerful in its moral force.
Read the passage carefully and answer the questions that follow:
ReplyDeleteThe rapid growth of social media has completely changed the way people communicate and share information. Platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok connect millions of users around the world within seconds. They have made it easier to spread ideas, promote businesses, and stay in touch with friends and family. However, social media also has negative sides. Many young people spend too much time online, which affects their studies, health, and real-life relationships. Fake news and cyberbullying are also common problems.
Experts suggest that people should use social media wisely. It should be taken as a tool for learning, communication, and entertainment, not as a distraction. A balanced life requires both online and offline activities. If used properly, social media can become a powerful means of personal growth and social change.
A. Answer the following questions in short. (5×2=10)
• How has social media changed communication?
• Mention two positive uses of social media.
• What are two negative effects of social media?
• What do experts suggest about the use of social media?
• According to the passage, what is required for a balanced life?
B. Choose the correct answer. (5×1=5)
• The main purpose of the passage is to …
a) explain the history of social media
b) highlight both benefits and problems of social media
c) criticize young people for using social media
d) promote social media platforms
• Which of the following is not mentioned as a problem of social media?
a) Fake news
b) Cyberbullying
c) Health problems
d) Environmental pollution
• The word distraction in the passage is closest in meaning to …
a) focus
b) disturbance
c) relaxation
d) connection
• According to the passage, social media can be powerful if …
a) used for business only
b) used wisely
c) avoided completely
d) banned by the government
• The tone of the writer in the passage can best be described as …
a) balanced
b) angry
c) humorous
d) fearful
शक्ति पृथकीकरण भनेको राज्य सञ्चालनका लागि राज्यका प्रमुख तीन अङ्गहरू व्यवस्थापिका कार्यपालिका र न्यायपालिकालाई सन्तुलित राख्दै एकअर्का बीचमा हस्तक्षेप नगरिकन आफ्नो काम कर्तव्य अधिकार विभाजन तथा बाँडफाँट गर्नु हो।
ReplyDelete
ReplyDeleteA. Do Marriage differ according to culture ? How is your marriage practice different from marriage in Amerika?
Marriage practices do vary by culture. Each culture has its own traditions and customs for marriage. Many practices are shared across cultures, while some are unique. Even within Nepal, marriage customs differ greatly from one region to another. Most Nepalese follow Hindu traditions, which shape many of our marriage practices.
Marriage in Nepal is very different from marriage in America. In American culture, marriage is less formalized, and couples often choose their partner freely. People may follow some traditions, but many do not. Marriage may be postponed until after establishing a career or financial stability. In contrast, Nepal treats marriage as a highly important institution. It is deeply respected, and many traditions are preserved over time.
In Nepal, marriages are often arranged by parents. In America, individuals usually choose their partner themselves. Marriage in Nepal connects not just two people, but two families, and parents play an important role in the process. Thus, marriage practices are very different in my culture compared to those in America.
B. Marriage practice in my own culture
ReplyDeleteIn my culture, marriage is a social, spiritual, cultural, and legal union between a man and a woman. Nepal is ethnically diverse, and wedding rituals depend on whether one follows Hindu or Buddhist traditions. I am from a Hindu background, so I describe those practices here.
On the wedding day, the groom’s side—along with neighbors, relatives, and a music band—goes to the bride’s house. This procession is called the 'Janti'. Women lead the Janti with trays of food and gifts (called Saipata) for the bride’s family. Traditional musicians play 'Panche Baja'. The groom follows, accompanied by dancing.
When the Janti arrives at the bride’s home, the bride’s family welcomes them. The gifts are presented to the bride’s family, and then there is a feast called 'Janti Bhoj'. The groom is taken to the 'Mandap' (or Jaggay), where the wedding rituals are performed.
A priest (*Pundit*) leads the ceremony. He chants sacred texts (*mantras*) and guides the couple through rituals around a sacred fire. A key ritual is 'saptapadi', where the couple walks around the fire seven times—each round represents important vows for their married life. The groom then applies 'Sindur' (vermilion) on the bride’s head and places a necklace (Potey or Tilari) around her neck. These are important symbols of a married woman.
Afterward, the bride’s father washes the feet of the couple, and family members bless them with *Tika* on the forehead and give gifts. Finally, the married couple leaves the bride’s house, accompanied by the Janti, with dancing and music.
When the couple arrives at the groom’s house, there is another celebration called 'Ratyauli'. This includes singing, dancing and lasts into the evening. These ceremonies involve many people—family, relatives, neighbors—and are both solemn and joyful. This is how a wedding in my culture leads into married life.
C. Is marriage a social institution? Discussion
Marriage is indeed a social institution. It is a recognized structure that shapes how individuals relate to each other in society. It involves legal, moral, cultural, and social dimensions. Marriage is not only about two people; it also involves rights and duties, affects families, and has legal standing.
From a sociological view, marriage meets many societal needs:
- It provides a stable relationship structure.
-It legitimizes sexual relations and children.
- It connects individuals to larger family networks.
-It helps with emotional support, economic cooperation, and upbringing of children.
In many cultures, marriage is more than a personal choice: it is tied to tradition, family expectations, religion, and law. These external factors help maintain social order. Without such frameworks, relationships might be less stable or less supported by society.
In Hindu philosophy, marriage is not merely for satisfying desire but also for spiritual growth. Husbands and wives are seen as partners on a path toward moral and spiritual development.
In summary, marriage is not just an individual or romantic arrangement. It is a social institution because it is embedded in legal systems, culture, religion, family expectations, and norms. It shapes individuals’ lives, supports society, and persists across generations.
ReplyDeleteSummary
Once there was a young and cheerful merchant named Ivan Dmitrich Aksionov who lived in the town of Vladimir with his wife and children. In his youth, he enjoyed pleasures and worldly luxuries, but after marriage, he became a responsible man.
One summer, he decided to go to the Nizhny Fair to sell his goods. Before his departure, his wife tried to stop him, saying she had a bad dream in which she saw him returning home with grey hair. Ivan laughed at her fear and went on his journey.
On his way, he met another merchant and stayed with him at an inn. They drank tea together and slept in adjoining rooms. Early the next morning, Aksionov continued his journey before the other man woke up.
A short while later, two soldiers stopped him and questioned him. They informed him that the merchant he had stayed with was found murdered, and they suspected him. When they searched his luggage, they found a bloody knife. Despite his innocence, all evidence pointed toward him, and he was arrested and sentenced to prison in Siberia.
Aksionov’s wife visited him and told him that even she had doubts about his innocence, which broke his heart. Over time, he accepted his fate, turned deeply religious, and became humble and kind. After twenty-six years in prison, everyone called him “Grandfather” because of his wisdom and piety.
One day, a new prisoner named Makar Semyonich arrived. After some time, Aksionov discovered that Makar was the real murderer. Although he was angry, he did not expose him.
Later, Aksionov caught Makar digging a tunnel to escape. Makar begged him not to tell anyone, and Aksionov remained silent. When the governor investigated, Aksionov refused to betray Makar, saying it was not his place to judge — only God’s.
That night, Makar came to Aksionov, confessed his crime, and asked for forgiveness. He admitted that he was the one who had killed the merchant and framed Aksionov. Deeply moved, Aksionov forgave him, saying that God would forgive him too.
Makar confessed his guilt to the governor, and orders were sent for Aksionov’s release. However, before he could be set free, Aksionov peacefully died in prison — a man who had found truth, forgiveness, and faith in God.
God Sees The Truth But Waits
ReplyDeleteSummary
Once there was a young merchant named Ivan Dmitri Aksenov who lived with his family in the town of Vladimir. When he was young, he enjoyed a happy life full of fun and pleasures. After he got married, one summer, he decided to go to Nizhny Fair. But his wife warned him not to go because she had a bad dream—she saw Ivan returning with grey hair.
Ivan laughed and ignored the warning. He started his journey. On the way, he met another merchant. They drank tea together and slept in adjoining rooms at an inn. The next morning, because Ivan usually woke up early, he continued his journey.
But not long after, two soldiers stopped him. They told him the merchant he had met was found murdered. They searched his things and found evidence that made him look guilty. Although Ivan was innocent, he was arrested and sent to prison.
His wife was heartbroken when she heard the news. She remembered her bad dream and even began to doubt him. This made Ivan very sad.
Ivan spent 26 long years in prison. During this time, he became a calm, kind, and religious man. His family had forgotten him, but other prisoners called him “Grandpa” because of his wisdom and good heart.
One day, a new prisoner arrived. His name was Makar Semyonich. After some time, Ivan learned that Makar was the real murderer of the merchant. Ivan was angry but said nothing.
One night, Ivan heard digging sounds and saw Makar trying to escape through a tunnel. Makar threatened to kill Ivan if he told anyone. The next day, soldiers found the tunnel and questioned all the prisoners. No one spoke. Finally, they asked Ivan because they trusted him. But Ivan said it was God’s will, not his, to tell the truth.
That night, Makar came to Ivan, cried, and admitted that he was the one who committed the crime. He begged for forgiveness. Ivan forgave him and said God would forgive him too. Makar promised to confess to the governor so that Ivan would be free.
But Ivan no longer wished to go home. He had lost everything—his family and his youth. Even though Makar confessed and Ivan was declared innocent, when the order for his release came, Ivan Dmitri Aksenov had already died in prison.
ReplyDeleteUnderstanding the text
a. What bad habits did Aksionov have before his marriage?
Aksionov used to drink before his marriage and was riotous when he drank too much.
b. What can be the meaning of his wife's dream?
The meaning of his wife’s dream can be the bad fortune or unluck.
c. Why did Aksionov think of killing himself?
When the Aksionov meet the real
e. Why doesn't Aksionov wish to return to his family at the end of the story?
Aksionov doesn't wish to return his family his wife was dead, he didn’t know about his children and lived in the name of God at the end of the story.
Reference to the context
a. "Well, old man," repeated the Governor, "tell me the truth: who has been digging under the wall?"
i. Who is that old man?
That old man is Aksionov.
ii. Which truth is the speaker asking about?
The speaker is asking about the truth of digging an escape hole.
iii. Which wall does the speaker mean?
The speaker means the prison's wall.
b. Describe Aksionov's character.
Aksionov is the protagonist of the story "god sees the truth but waits" written by Leo Tolstoy. He is a young merchant. He is a handsome, fair-haired, curly-headed fellow, full of fun and very fond of singing. He used to drink much before marriage but later on, he changed himself and became a good man. He had virtuous qualities such as faith, forgiveness, freedom, and acceptance. His comfortable life is disrupted when he is framed for a murder he didn't commit and was sent to a Siberian prison camp. He earns a reputation as a good person among the prison officials and fellow prisoners. After finding himself imprisoned with the man who framed him, Aksionov is ready to kill himself. However, at the end of the story, he is able to forgive Semyonich. He dies shortly before the authorities order him to be released.
c. What is the theme of the story?
In the story ‘God Sees the Truth, But Waits’ by Leo Tolstoy we have the theme of guilt, forgiveness, faith, conflict, freedom and acceptance. Narrated in the third person by an unnamed narrator the reader realizes after reading the story that Tolstoy may be exploring the theme of forgiveness.
If the plea of his wife to the Czar is denied, Aksionov realises that he cannot rectify his wrong. He commits himself to God to offer him that righteousness which a man cannot give him.
Aksionov becomes a modest and pious person in jail. Officials and inmates appreciate him in settling disputes for his neutrality. Aksionov's trust in God is so great that he thinks that he must be wicked to deserve God's tortured life.
After Aksionov is reluctant to report the drilling of Semyonich's tunnel, Semyonich is disturbed by the compassion of Aksionov. Aksionov eventually gives forgiveness to Semyonich.
d. Which symbols are used in the story and what do they indicate?
The most important symbols in this short story are Aksionov's house (and two shops) and the Siberian prison mine where he is sentenced to hard labor. His house and two shops represent his family, his material possessions, and his earthly affairs. The prison itself is a symbol of his suffering and his eventual spiritual transformation.
ReplyDeleteA Matter of Husbands
Simple Summary
A Matter of Husbands by Ferenc Molnár is a short and tricky one-act play. It tells the story of an Earnest Woman who is married to a lawyer. She visits a Famous Woman because she thinks her husband is having an affair with her.
The Famous Woman then creates a clever story. She says that the husband only pretended to love her to make his wife jealous and win back her love. The Earnest Woman believes this story and starts to trust her husband again. But in the end, we discover that the husband was hiding in the closet the whole time, proving that the Famous Woman was lying.
This play only needs two female actresses. It works best if the actresses are good at acting in a funny and dramatic way. The Earnest Woman should look innocent, silly, and easy to fool. The Famous Woman should look smart, proud, and a bit evil.
The stage setting does not need to be very fancy—just realistic enough to show a room. Lighting should be simple. Smart movements (blocking) can make the play even funnier.
For costumes, the Famous Woman can wear a long, elegant gown with gloves and a fur coat to show her rich and stylish nature. The Earnest Woman can wear a plain and unfashionable dress with socks showing from her shoes. This will help the audience understand their characters quickly, as there isn’t much time to develop them in a one-act play.
Reference to the context
ReplyDeletea. Sketch the character of Famous Actress.
The Famous Actress is a young, renowned, and beautiful actress who is envied by the ordinary woman. On the outside, she looks innocent and harmless but in reality, she is mean and wicked. She is cunning and deceitful as seen in the way she concocts a story to sway the woman from believing that her husband was having an affair with her. She also lives an immoral life as seen in the conclusion of the story where it was revealed that Alfred, the ordinary woman's husband was actually in her house.
Writing
ReplyDeleteA. Study the following advertisement. Write an application for one of the positions. Prepare your CV too that suits for the job.
Application:
Bharatpur-7, Chitwan.
6th June 2021
To:
The Assistant Director,
MM Construction Pvt. Ltd.,
Satdobato Marg,
Lalitpur.
Subject : Application for The Post of Civil Engineer
Dear Sir,
With reference to your advertisement in THE PIONEER on 2nd July inviting application for the post of a civil engineer under your authority, I beg to offer myself as a candidate for the same. My qualifications and experience are given below.
I passed my civil engineering examination from the IOE, Pulchowk Campus in first division and also got degree in B.Sc. Physics (Hons.) I have an excellent academic career and have won many scholarship and awards during my school and college life.
I worked in ArEiCon Engineers Pvt. Ltd. – Lalitpur for five years and during the period tried advanced techniques which proved to be highly beneficial to the firm. At present I have been working with Global Impex International Pvt. Ltd. for the last four years. The job involves administrative and supervisory duties. In recognition of my services, the company has offered me further incentives in the form of special bonus. But this job does not have much future. So I seek a job under you which will open new avenues for my career. I am ready to work at any of the branches.
I have attached my CV to the email for your reference. Please have a look at it.
I hope to meet you and discuss this opportunity further. Thank you for considering my application for the role.
I may assure you if I am given the job, I shall work diligently.
Yours Faithfully,
Binod Sharma
Curriculum Vitae (CV)
ReplyDelete1. Personal Information
• Full Name:
• Address:
• Email:
• Phone Number:
• Date of Birth:
• Nationality:
• Marital Status: (Optional)
2. Career Objective
(Write a short paragraph stating your career goal.)
Example:
To build a successful career in a reputed organization where I can apply my skills and knowledge to achieve personal and organizational goals.
3. Education Qualification
LevelInstitution NameBoard/UniversityYearDivision/GradeSLC/SEE+2/IntermediateBachelor’s LevelMaster’s Level
4. Work Experience
(List your professional experience, starting with the most recent.)
• Organization:
• Position:
• Duration:
• Responsibilities:
(Repeat for each job.)
5. Trainings & Skills
• Training in …………………
• Computer skills (MS Office, Internet, etc.)
• Language skills (English, Nepali, Bhojpuri, etc.)
• Any other relevant skills
6. Achievements / Awards (if any)
• Awarded …………………
• Recognized for …………………
7. Interests and Hobbies
• Reading
• Writing
• Sports
• Social work
(Write what is true for you.)
8. References
• Name:
• Position:
• Organization:
• Contact Number:
A. Advantages and Disadvantages of Social Media
ReplyDeleteThere are different views about the use of social media. Some people believe it brings many benefits, while others think it creates problems. In my opinion, social media has both positive and negative impacts depending on how people use it.
One of the major advantages of social media is that it connects people globally. Platforms like , , and allow us to communicate easily with friends and family. It is also a good source of news, education, entertainment, and business promotion. Students can get online learning materials, and businesses can advertise their products quickly and cheaply.
However, there are also disadvantages. Overuse of social media can waste valuable time. Many people, especially teenagers, get addicted to it. It can spread false information, affect mental health, and decrease face-to-face communication.
In my view, social media is useful if used wisely. It should be used for learning, sharing positive ideas, and connecting with others — not for wasting time or spreading negativity.
B. Cyber Bullying: Meaning, Effects, and Control
Cyber bullying means using digital platforms like social media, messaging apps, or the internet to hurt, threaten, or insult someone. For example, spreading rumors online, posting harmful comments, or sharing someone’s private photos without permission are forms of cyber bullying.
Its effects can be very serious. It can cause stress, sadness, fear, loss of confidence, and sometimes even lead to depression. Victims may feel lonely or unsafe.
To stop cyber bullying, people should use the internet responsibly. Schools and parents should teach students about safe online behavior. Victims should report bullying to trusted adults or authorities. Strong cyber laws and punishments can also help reduce it.
poised (adj.): in a state of balance
ReplyDeletegilt (adj.): gold, or something resembling gold, applied to a surface in a thin layer
palpably (adv.): noticeably or clearly
boudoir (n.): a woman’s bedroom or small private room
gulp (v.): swallow or breath with difficulty, typically in response to strong emotion
beseeching (adj.): (of a look or tone of voice) appealing or begging for something
implore (v.): beg someone desperately to do something
strut (v.): walk with a stiff, erect and apparently arrogant way
lure (v.): to tempt or attract a person or an animal
appraisingly (n.): in a way that shows you judge the value, quality or nature of
something or somebody
expedients (n.): means of attaining an end, especially ones which are convenient but
possibly improper or immoral
scruples (n.): feelings of doubt or hesitation with regard to the morality or propriety of
course of action
contritely (adj.): in a way that shows you feel very sorry and guilty for something bad
you have done
impetuously (adj.): in an impulsive way, without considering the results
Basic Format / Structure to Follow
ReplyDelete1. Introduction
• Start with the full name of the person.
• Mention when and where the person was born.
• Say who he/she was (profession, field, or why he/she is famous).
Example sentence starter:
“ was a great leader who is known as the Father of the Nation in India.”
2. Early Life / Background
• Write briefly about childhood, education, or early interests.
Example sentence starter:
“He was born on October 2, 1869, in Porbandar, India. He studied law in England.”
3. Major Contribution / Work
• Explain what great work or achievement the person did.
• Highlight why he/she is remembered.
Example sentence starter:
“He led India’s struggle for independence through non-violence and truth.”
4. Qualities / Characteristics
• Mention good qualities or what we can learn from that person.
Example sentence starter:
“He was honest, brave, and dedicated to his country.”
5. Conclusion
• End with a short concluding remark or personal impression.
• Example sentence starter:
“He will always be remembered for his great contribution to humanity.”
Tips for Writing in Exam:
• Keep the paragraph short and clear (8–10 sentences).
• Use simple and correct grammar.
• Write in the present or past tense appropriately.
• Avoid long or confusing sentences.
Sample Paragraph
was a great leader who is known as the Father of the Nation in India. He was born on October 2, 1869, in Porbandar, India. He studied law in England and worked in South Africa before returning to India. He led India’s independence movement through the path of non-violence and truth. He believed that peace is more powerful than war. He inspired millions of people to fight for freedom without violence. He was simple, brave, and honest. He is loved and respected all over the world. His life teaches us to be truthful and peaceful. He will always be remembered as a great leader.
Understanding the Text
ReplyDeletea. What favour does the Earnest Young Woman ask from the Famous Actress?
She asks the Famous Actress to give back her husband because she believes the actress has stolen him from her.
b. What signs make the Earnest Young Woman believe her husband loves the Famous Actress?
She learns from a florist that her husband has sent flowers to the actress. She also finds a love letter he wrote to her, in which he apologizes and sends her thousands of kisses.
c. Is the Earnest Young Woman convinced by the Famous Actress? How?
Yes. The actress convinces her by saying that the affair is just a trick planned by her husband to make her jealous and bring back her affection. The Earnest Young Woman believes this story.
d. Where is the husband hiding during their conversation?
The husband is hiding inside the Famous Actress’s boudoir throughout their conversation. He appears when the actress calls him at the end of the play.
e. When does the Famous Actress show her strong acting skills?
She shows her acting skills when she pretends to be innocent and convincingly explains that the affair is only a game to make the wife jealous.
f. How do we know that the Famous Actress and the husband are in love?
At the end of the play, the husband comes out of the actress’s boudoir, revealing that they were indeed having an affair and that the actress had lied.
g. Write the plot of the play in a paragraph.
‘A Matter of Husbands’ is a one-act play that highlights the power of acting and illusion. The Earnest Young Woman confronts the Famous Actress, accusing her of stealing her husband. The actress denies it and cleverly convinces the young woman that her husband only pretended to love her to make his wife jealous. The young woman believes her and apologizes. After she leaves, the husband comes out of the actress’s boudoir, revealing that they were truly having an affair. The play shows how easily appearances can deceive people.
Worksheet: Active ↔ Passive Voice
ReplyDeletePart A — Identify the voice
Write 'Active' or 'Passive' beside each sentence.
1. The teacher gave the students their assignments.
2. The homework was completed by the class yesterday.
3. A new game is being played by the children.
4. The principal will announce the winners tomorrow.
5. The winners were congratulated at the assembly.
Part B — Change the voice
Rewrite each sentence in the opposite voice.
1. Many tourists visit Kathmandu every year.
2. The picture was painted by my sister.
3. They are organizing a cultural fair this weekend.
4. Someone has stolen the bicycle.
5. The committee will approve the proposal.
6. The mechanic repaired the car yesterday.
7. A beautiful story is being told by the narrator.
8. The students will complete the project by Friday.
9. The chef has prepared the meal.
10. The wind broke the window last night.
Part C — Mixed modes
Change the following into passive (if active) or active (if passive).
1. “Let the document be submitted by noon.”
2. “Has the report been finished by them?”
3. “They had built the bridge before the floods came.”
4. “The movie is being watched by millions around the world.”
5. “She will have written the book by next year.”
Structure:
ReplyDeleteSubject + love/like/hate/enjoy + being + past participle (V3)
Steps to Change
• Identify the main verb (love, like, hate, etc.)
• Find the inner verb (the -ing part: praising, helping, admiring, etc.)
• Change the inner clause into passive form using being + past participle.
• Keep the main verb unchanged.
• Add by + doer only if necessary.
More Practice Sentences
Change these into passive voice:
• I like people calling me honest.
• She hates people blaming her.
• They enjoy people watching their dance.
• We dislike people shouting at us.
• He loves people inviting him to parties.
• I prefer people respecting my privacy.
• My mother likes people helping the poor.
• The teacher hates students ignoring his advice.
• They love people appreciating their effort.
Prepositions Used Instead of “by” in Passive Voice
ReplyDeletePrepositionUsed With VerbsExample (Passive)toknown, devoted, married, accustomed, addicted, attached, dedicated- He is known to everyone.
- She is married to a doctor.
- The teacher is devoted to his students.withpleased, satisfied, disappointed, crowded, filled, covered- I am pleased with your result.
- The jar was filled with honey.
- The room was crowded with people.atsurprised, shocked, amazed, alarmed, annoyed- She was surprised at the news.
- We were shocked at his behavior.ininterested, involved, engaged- He is interested in music.
- She was engaged in teaching.offrightened, tired, scared, convinced, composed- The child was frightened of the dog.
- The speech was composed of short stories.aboutworried, concerned, excited- I am worried about my exam.
- They were excited about the trip.forknown, respected, blamed, punished, prepared, remembered- He is known for his honesty.
- She was blamed for the mistake.
- The students are prepared for the test.fromprotected, separated, recovered- The village was protected from floods.
- She has recovered from illness.onbased, focused, dependent- The movie is based on a true story.
- The plan is dependent on funding. Tips to Remember
• These verbs are often used in passive voice as adjective forms (be + V3 + preposition).
• “By” shows who does the action,
while other prepositions show relation or cause of the action.
• Many of these are fixed expressions (can’t change the preposition).
Examples in Full Sentences
• The room was filled with smoke.
• He is known for his honesty.
• She is married to a lawyer.
• They were shocked at the accident.
• The story is based on real events.
• The boy was punished for stealing.
• I am interested in astronomy.
Worksheet: Correct Prepositions in Passive Sentences
ReplyDeleteA. Fill in the blanks with suitable prepositions:
(to, with, for, at, in, on, of, from, about)
A. Fill in the blanks:
• He is known ___ his honesty.
• The room was filled ___ smoke.
• She is married ___ a doctor.
• I am satisfied ___ my result.
• The children were excited ___ the picnic.
• The village was protected ___ wild animals.
• The boy was punished ___ telling lies.
• The story is based ___ real events.
• The jar was filled ___ milk.
• They were surprised ___ the bad news.
• He is interested ___ learning English.
• She was engaged ___ social work.
• The students are prepared ___ the final exam.
• The city was crowded ___ tourists.
• The girl was frightened ___ the noise.
• The movie was focused ___ women’s empowerment.
• The man is addicted ___ smoking.
• The teacher was disappointed ___ the students’ behavior.
• The report was composed ___ five chapters.
• The baby has recovered ___ fever.
B. Challenge Section (Choose the correct option):
• She is devoted ___ her parents.
a) at b) to c) with d) of
• He was shocked ___ the news.
a) at b) in c) for d) by
• The book is based ___ a true story.
a) at b) on c) for d) with
• The bucket was filled ___ water.
a) by b) from c) with d) of
• I was pleased ___ your performance.
a) about b) with c) in d) to
The main idea of “Human Rights and the Age of Inequality” by Samuel Moyn is that modern human rights movements have succeeded in protecting basic freedoms and dignity but have failed to address growing economic inequality.
ReplyDeleteMoyn argues that while human rights focus on preventing suffering and ensuring minimal standards of life, they do not challenge unfair economic systems or the unequal distribution of wealth. As a result, human rights have become compatible with extreme inequality, and to achieve true justice, they must include economic and social equality, not just civil and political rights.
Summary
ReplyDeleteIn “Human Rights and the Age of Inequality”, historian Samuel Moyn critically examines the relationship between the rise of human rights movements and the persistence of global inequality in the late 20th and early 21st centuries. He argues that although the modern human rights movement achieved important moral and political victories—especially in promoting civil and political rights—it failed to address economic inequality and social justice on a global scale.
Moyn points out that the language of human rights became powerful after the 1970s, precisely when the world was shifting toward neoliberal economic policies that widened the gap between the rich and the poor. While human rights advocates focused on preventing atrocities, protecting individual freedoms, and ensuring minimum standards of dignity, they often ignored issues of wealth concentration, fair distribution, and social welfare.
He contrasts this with earlier visions of equality and justice—such as those found in social democracy and anticolonial movements—which aimed to reduce inequality through redistribution and collective welfare. Moyn suggests that the modern human rights framework has become a "moral minimum" rather than a tool for achieving economic fairness.
Ultimately, Moyn calls for a renewed vision that links human rights with economic justice, arguing that true human dignity cannot exist without tackling inequality and creating systems that promote equal opportunity and social protection for all.
Key Ideas
• Human rights emerged as a moral language during an era of rising inequality.
• Focus has been mainly on civil and political rights, not on economic and social equality.
• Neoliberalism and globalization have deepened inequality while human rights discourse remained silent.
• Earlier movements (social democracy, welfare states) were more effective in reducing inequality.
• Moyn urges integrating economic justice into the human rights agenda to make it more meaningful today.
What is the goal of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights?
ReplyDeleteThe goal of the Universal Declaration of human rights is to assure the most basic entitlements and key values of human welfare and rights like equality, dignity, freedom, fairness and respect. Also, its goal is to assert justice and peace in the world alongside the foundation of freedom.
a. What is the first human rights declaration adopted by the United Nations?
ReplyDeleteThe first human rights declaration adopted by the United Nations is the mobilization for economic and social rights.
b. When is Human Rights Day observed?
Human Rights Day is observed on 10th December every year.
c. What is the goal of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights?
The goal of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights is to ensure the basic entitlements and key values essential for human welfare—such as equality, dignity, freedom, fairness, and respect. It also aims to promote justice and peace in the world based on the foundation of freedom.
d. What are two big stages that involve writing the history of human rights in relation to political economy?
The two major stages in writing the history of human rights in relation to the political economy are:
• The heroic age of national welfare that emerged after World War II, and
• The era of the Cold War (around 1948), which introduced new political and ideological divisions.
e. What are the facts that have been missed in Roosevelt’s call for a “Second Bill of Rights”?
The following facts were overlooked in Roosevelt’s call for a “Second Bill of Rights”:
• It represented America’s delayed entry into an already established North Atlantic consensus.
• It promised to end “special privileges for the few,” yet failed to ensure real protection for the masses, thereby allowing inequality to persist.
• Although Roosevelt hoped for a global impact, his plan was nationally focused rather than internationally organized.
The central theme of “The Oval Portrait” by Edgar Allan Poe is the conflict between art and life.
ReplyDeleteThe story shows how the artist’s intense passion for creating perfect art leads him to ignore real life and human emotions — even to the point of causing his wife’s death. It explores how the pursuit of artistic perfection and beauty can destroy life itself.
In short, the story reveals that when art becomes more important than life, it turns destructive instead of creative.
The woman depicted in the oval portrait is the young wife of the painter.
ReplyDeleteShe was a beautiful and kind lady who deeply loved her husband, but he was so obsessed with his art that he cared more about his painting than her. As she posed for the portrait, her health slowly declined, and when the painting was finally finished, she had died.
Thus, the woman in the portrait symbolizes the sacrifice of life and love for the sake of art.
The story “The Oval Portrait” is a good example of a frame narrative, which means a story within a story.
ReplyDeleteIn the outer story, a wounded narrator takes shelter in an abandoned chateau with his servant. While resting, he notices an oval portrait on the wall and becomes curious about it.
Then comes the inner story, which is found in a book the narrator reads. This inner story tells about the young woman and her painter husband—how the artist became so absorbed in painting her portrait that he unknowingly caused her death.
Thus, the outer frame (the narrator discovering the portrait) introduces and surrounds the inner story (the tragic tale of the painter and his wife).
This structure allows Poe to build mystery and emotional depth, showing how art, beauty, and obsession are connected across both stories.
. Does the essay give ways on how to stigmatize inequality? Explain.
ReplyDeleteThe essay “Human Rights and the Age of Inequality” by Samuel Moyn discusses how the concept of human rights emerged and what impact it has had on human welfare. However, the essay does not specifically provide ways to stigmatize inequality. Instead, it focuses on highlighting inequality as a social stigma and emphasizes the need to address it. History reveals that some powerful groups have failed to promote redistribution and justice, allowing inequality to grow unchecked. The essay suggests that if such inequality continues, opposition will inevitably rise. Therefore, justice and equality are essential for social harmony. Moyn argues that the human rights movement should focus more on promoting social equality and liberation for ordinary people. To eliminate inequality, society must ensure fair supervision, effective monitoring, and the enforcement of strict laws. Removing discrimination and partiality is necessary for the welfare of all human beings, as inequality remains a stigma on modern society.
A.What are the changes in maintaining human rights in Nepal?
ReplyDeleteIn Nepal, significant changes have been made in maintaining human rights after the restoration of democracy. The Constitution of Nepal guarantees fundamental rights such as the right to equality, freedom, education, health, and social justice. Various human rights organizations, including the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), have been established to protect and promote human rights. Awareness programs, inclusion of marginalized groups, empowerment of women, and legal reforms have strengthened human rights practices. Media and civil society have also become active in raising voices against violations. Thus, Nepal has made noticeable progress in promoting and safeguarding human rights.
Here’s a rewritten and improved version of your essay on **“Advantages of Morning Walk”** — with clearer ideas, smoother transitions, and a correction to the timing error (morning walks are best early in the morning, not in the afternoon):
ReplyDelete---
### **Advantages of Morning Walk**
The modern world is full of stress, poor health, and mental tension. Many people today live in a constant rush from one task to another without giving time to their physical and mental well-being. Only a few truly value their health over work. However, there are simple ways to restore good health, and one of the most effective is a morning walk. A regular morning walk can greatly reduce many health problems and bring peace of mind.
From childhood, we have often heard the saying, “Early to bed and early to rise makes a man healthy, wealthy, and wise.” This proverb holds great truth because morning walks indeed make a person healthier, fresher, and more alert.
A morning walk improves physical fitness, strengthens the heart, and enhances blood circulation. It keeps us energetic throughout the day and protects us from diseases such as obesity, diabetes, and hypertension. Moreover, it refreshes the mind, improves concentration, and develops a positive attitude toward life. Walking in the fresh morning air also allows people from different walks of life to meet and interact, fostering a sense of equality and harmony.
Above all, a morning walk energizes the body, removes laziness, and fills the mind with positivity. It gives us time to think peacefully and plan our day effectively. According to health experts, the best time for a morning walk is early in the morning, just after sunrise, when the air is clean and fresh.
To sum up, a morning walk is one of the simplest yet most beneficial exercises for maintaining physical and mental health. Everyone—young or old—should make it a part of their daily routine. People who walk regularly not only enjoy better health but also live longer and happier lives.
Grammar
ReplyDeletec. Underline the verb in each sentence and write whether it is transitive, intransitive, or linking.
a. His father looks handsome. → linking verb
b. Bhawana drinks milk every day. → transitive verb
c. He became a watchman. → linking verb
d. This bread smells good. → linking verb
e. The dog barked loudly. → intransitive verb
f. He chased the dog. → transitive verb
g. My sister swims fast. → intransitive verb
h. He painted a picture. → transitive verb
i. Radhika always asks questions. → transitive verb
j. Anjana has long hair. → transitive verb ✅ (not linking)
k. Hungry lion roars. → intransitive verb
l. He tried again and again. → intransitive verb
m. The weather is hot. → linking verb
n. Owls hide in the daytime. → intransitive verb
. Linking Verbs
ReplyDeleteDefinition:
A linking verb connects the subject of a sentence with its complement (a word that describes or identifies the subject).
It does not show any action. Instead, it tells what the subject is or feels.
Common Linking Verbs:
am, is, are, was, were, be, been, being, seem, appear, become, look, feel, smell, taste, sound
Examples:
• He is a teacher. → (‘is’ links ‘he’ to ‘teacher’)
• The food smells good.
• She became angry.
• My father looks tired.
Rule:
If you can replace the verb with am/is/are/was/were and the sentence still makes sense, it’s usually a linking verb.
2. Transitive Verbs
Definition:
A transitive verb is an action verb that needs a direct object (a noun or pronoun) to complete its meaning.
The action passes from the subject to the object.
Examples:
• She wrote a letter. → (What did she write? → a letter)
• The boy kicked the ball. → (What did he kick? → the ball)
• I bought a new car.
• They built a house.
Rule:
If you can ask “what?” or “whom?” after the verb and get a meaningful answer, it’s transitive.
3. Intransitive Verbs
Definition:
An intransitive verb is an action verb that does not take a direct object.
The action does not pass to anyone or anything else.
Examples:
• The baby cried.
• The sun rises.
• He slept peacefully.
• The dog barked loudly.
Rule:
If there is no direct object answering what? or whom? after the verb, it’s intransitive.
ReplyDeleteGrammar Practice
B. Rewrite the following sentences in the passive voice using the correct form of verbs in the brackets.
a. The police ____ (arrest) the thief last night.
b. A new bridge ____ (build) over the river next year.
c. The homework ____ (already/check) by the teacher.
d. The guests ____ (serve) coffee when we arrived.
e. This book ____ (write) by a famous Nepali author.
f. The meeting ____ (cancel) due to heavy rain yesterday.
g. These trees ____ (plant) by the students on Environment Day.
h. The song ____ (sing) by the students at the annual function.
i. A new hospital ____ (construct) in our town at present.
j. The parcel ____ (deliver) to your house tomorrow morning.
Grammar Practice
ReplyDeleteB. Rewrite the following sentences in the passive voice using the correct form of verbs in the brackets.
Rule reminder:
Passive Voice = Subject + appropriate form of “be” + past participle (V₃) + (by + agent)
Tense of “be” changes according to the tense of the active verb.
a. The thief was arrested (arrest) by the police last night.
Rule: Simple past → was/were + V₃
b. A new bridge will be built (build) over the river next year.
Rule: Simple future → will be + V₃
c. The homework has already been checked (check) by the teacher.
Rule: Present perfect → has/have been + V₃
d. The guests were being served (serve) coffee when we arrived.
Rule: Past continuous → was/were being + V₃
e. This book was written (write) by a famous Nepali author.
Rule: Simple past → was/were + V₃
f. The meeting was cancelled (cancel) due to heavy rain yesterday.
Rule: Simple past → was/were + V₃
g. These trees were planted (plant) by the students on Environment Day.
Rule: Simple past → was/were + V₃
h. The song was sung (sing) by the students at the annual function.
Rule: Simple past → was/were + V₃
i. A new hospital is being constructed (construct) in our town at present.
Rule: Present continuous → am/is/are being + V₃
j. The parcel will be delivered (deliver) to your house tomorrow morning.
Rule: Simple future → will be + V₃
Grammar Practice
B. Rewrite the following sentences in the passive voice using the correct form of verbs in the brackets.
Rule reminder:
Passive Voice = Subject + appropriate form of “be” + past participle (V₃) + (by + agent)
Tense of “be” changes according to the tense of the active verb.
a. The thief was arrested (arrest) by the police last night.
Rule: Simple past → was/were + V₃
b. A new bridge will be built (build) over the river next year.
Rule: Simple future → will be + V₃
c. The homework has already been checked (check) by the teacher.
Rule: Present perfect → has/have been + V₃
d. The guests were being served (serve) coffee when we arrived.
Rule: Past continuous → was/were being + V₃
e. This book was written (write) by a famous Nepali author.
Rule: Simple past → was/were + V₃
f. The meeting was cancelled (cancel) due to heavy rain yesterday.
Rule: Simple past → was/were + V₃
g. These trees were planted (plant) by the students on Environment Day.
Rule: Simple past → was/were + V₃
h. The song was sung (sing) by the students at the annual function.
Rule: Simple past → was/were + V₃
i. A new hospital is being constructed (construct) in our town at present.
Rule: Present continuous → am/is/are being + V₃
j. The parcel will be delivered (deliver) to your house tomorrow morning.
Rule: Simple future → will be + V₃
Grammar
ReplyDeleteB. Put the verb into the correct form — Present Simple or Present Continuous.
Rules:
Present Simple Tense is used for:
• Habitual actions (things we do regularly)
• General truths or facts
• Permanent situations
Structure:
Subject + V₁ / V₁s (for he, she, it)
Present Continuous Tense is used for:
• Actions happening now / at the moment
• Temporary actions or situations
Structure:
Subject + am/is/are + V₁-ing
a. Nisha speaks (speak) English very well.
Rule: Present simple — for ability or general truth.
b. Hurry up! We are waiting (wait) for you.
Rule: Present continuous — action happening now.
c. Excuse me! Do you speak (you/speak) English?
Rule: Present simple — for ability or general habit.
d. She is having (have) a shower in the bathroom.
Rule: Present continuous — action happening right now.
e. How often do you read (you/read) a newspaper?
Rule: Present simple — for habits or routines.
f. I'm sorry, I don’t understand (not/understand). Can you speak more slowly?
Rule: Present simple — for mental states (understand, know, believe, etc.)
g. You can turn off the radio. I am not listening (not/listen) to it.
Rule: Present continuous — temporary action not happening now.
h. I usually get up (get up) at 5 o’clock every morning.
Rule: Present simple — for regular or habitual action.
i. Look! The river is flowing (flow) very fast.
Rule: Present continuous — describing action happening now.
j. Amrita does not seem (not/seem) very happy at the moment.
Rule: Present simple — verbs like seem, know, believe are not usually used in continuous form.
1. Evans
ReplyDelete• Role: One of the main characters (a treasure seeker).
• Character traits:
• Greedy: He goes to the island with greed for the hidden treasure.
• Adventurous: He dares to travel through the dense forest in search of gold.
• Careless and impatient: He ignores the warning signs and hastily digs up the treasure without thinking about safety.
• Tragic end: His greed leads to his painful death after being poisoned by the gold dust.
2. Hooker
• Role: Evans’s companion and another treasure hunter.
• Character traits:
• Cautious but also greedy: Initially more careful than Evans, but still motivated by greed.
• Dependent: He follows Evans’s lead rather than taking initiative.
• Curious: He tries to read the Chinese man’s map and figure out the location of the treasure.
• Victim of greed: Like Evans, he suffers a terrible fate due to the poisoned treasure.
3. The Chinese Man (Chang-hi)
• Role: The original owner of the treasure.
• Character traits:
• Wise and cunning: He hides his treasure carefully and plans revenge on those who might steal it.
• Vengeful: He poisons the gold to punish greedy treasure hunters.
• Silent avenger: Although he dies before the main events, his plan destroys the thieves, showing poetic justice.
4. The Natives (minor characters)
• Role: They appear at the beginning of the story when Hooker and Evans steal the map from them.
• Character traits:
• Helpless victims: They are murdered by the two Europeans for their map.
• Symbolic role: Their death represents the exploitation of native people by greedy outsiders.
ख) बैंक ऋण (Loan):
ReplyDeleteबैंकले आफ्ना ग्राहकहरूलाई विभिन्न उद्देश्यका लागि दिने रकमलाई बैंक ऋण भनिन्छ। यसमा निश्चित ब्याजदरमा रकम दिइन्छ र निश्चित समयभित्र फिर्ता गर्नुपर्छ।
(ग) विदेशी विनिमय (विदेशी मुद्राको सञ्चय तथा सटही):
एक देशको मुद्रा अर्को देशको मुद्रामा साट्ने प्रक्रियालाई विदेशी विनिमय भनिन्छ। यसमा विदेशी मुद्राको खरिद, बिक्री र सञ्चयका कार्यहरू पर्छन्।
(घ) ऋणपत्र (Debentures) / बण्ड (Bond) / वाणिज्य पत्र / सेयर (Share) / ट्रेजरी बिल आदि:
यी सबै पूँजी बजारका साधन हुन्।
• ऋणपत्र (Debenture): कम्पनीले लगानीकर्ताबाट ऋण उठाउन जारी गर्ने प्रमाणपत्र हो।
• बण्ड (Bond): सरकार वा संस्थाले ऋणका रूपमा जारी गर्ने कागजी प्रमाणपत्र हो।
• सेयर (Share): कम्पनीको स्वामित्वको अंश हो जसले लगानीकर्तालाई लाभांश दिन्छ।
• ट्रेजरी बिल: सरकारद्वारा छोटो अवधिका लागि पूँजी जुटाउन जारी गरिने कागज हो।
(ङ) बैंक खाता (चल्ती, बचत, मुद्रती):
बैंकमा जम्मा गर्ने खाताका विभिन्न प्रकार हुन्—
• चल्ती खाता: व्यापारिक कारोबारका लागि प्रयोग हुने खाता।
• बचत खाता: सामान्य बचतका लागि ब्याजसहितको खाता।
• मुद्रती खाता: निश्चित अवधिको लागि रकम राखिने र बढी ब्याज पाइने खाता।
(च) ई-बैंकिङ (ATM, डेबिट कार्ड, क्रेडिट कार्ड, SMS बैंकिङ):
सूचना प्रविधिको प्रयोगबाट बैंक सेवाहरू घरमै वा मोबाइल/इन्टरनेटमार्फत पाउने प्रणालीलाई ई-बैंकिङ भनिन्छ। यसमा एटीएम, डेबिट कार्ड, क्रेडिट कार्ड र एसएमएस बैंकिङ सेवा समावेश हुन्छन्।
The moral of the story “Treasure in the Forest” by H.G. Wells is:
ReplyDelete1. Greed leads to destruction.
Explanation:
The story shows how the excessive greed of two men, Evans and Hooker, drives them to betrayal, violence, and ultimately death. They find a map to hidden treasure, but instead of being cautious or content, their greed blinds them. In their rush to claim the treasure, they ignore danger and suffer a tragic end.
Other possible morals:
“We should not let greed control our actions.”
“We reap what we sow.”
“Dishonesty and greed always bring misfortune.”
“Treasure in the Forest” by H. G. Wells:
ReplyDelete• Two men — Evans and Hooker — sail in a canoe to a deserted island after stealing a map from a Chinese man named Chang-hi, who had discovered a hidden treasure of gold.
• They follow the map to find the place where the gold is buried — under a group of coral reefs near the forest.
• When they reach the spot, they find several lumps of gold hidden beneath the ground.
• Out of greed and excitement, Evans immediately touches the gold without thinking, while Hooker digs more hurriedly.
• Soon, Evans feels a sharp pain and dies in agony. Hooker realizes too late that the gold was poisoned — Chang-hi had coated it with a deadly substance to protect it.
• Finally, Hooker also dies, realizing that their greed has led to their death.
Moral:
Greed and betrayal lead to destruction.
We should be content and not risk our lives for selfish gain.
1. Who are the main characters in the story?
ReplyDeleteAnswer:
The main characters are Evans and Hooker, two greedy men searching for hidden treasure. There is also a minor character, Chang-hi, a Chinese man who originally discovered and hid the treasure.
2. What was the treasure, and where was it hidden?
Answer:
The treasure was a large amount of gold, hidden under some coral reefs in a forest on a deserted island.
3. How did Evans and Hooker find out about the treasure?
Answer:
They found out about the treasure from Chang-hi’s map, which they obtained by cheating and killing him.
4. What happened when they found the gold?
Answer:
Evans touched the gold eagerly and soon felt a sharp pain. He died because the gold was poisoned with a deadly substance. Hooker also realized the same and died shortly after.
5. What lesson does the story teach us?
Answer:
The story teaches that greed and dishonesty lead to destruction and death. It warns us to control our desires and avoid harming others for selfish gain.
6. What is the setting of the story?
Answer:
The story is set on a deserted tropical island surrounded by a forest and coral reefs, giving it a mysterious and adventurous atmosphere.
7. Why did Chang-hi poison the gold?
Answer:
Chang-hi poisoned the gold to protect it from being stolen by others, as he knew it was very valuable.
8. What is the tone and mood of the story?
Answer:
The tone is suspenseful and mysterious, while the mood is tense and fearful, especially toward the end when the men die.
The Central Theme of the story “Treasure in the Forest” by H. G. Wells is the destructive power of greed and the consequences of human avarice.
ReplyDeleteExplanation:
The story shows how two men, Evans and Hooker, driven by greed for treasure, betray moral values and seek to steal gold that does not belong to them. Their desire for quick wealth leads them into danger, fear, and finally a horrifying death caused by their own impatience and greed.
The author uses suspense and irony to show that those blinded by greed often end up destroying themselves. The treasure, instead of bringing happiness or success, becomes the cause of their death.
Answer:
ReplyDeleteQ. Explain how the essay “My Mother Never Worked” challenges the traditional definition of “work.”
The essay “My Mother Never Worked” by Bonnie Smith-Yackel challenges the traditional and narrow definition of “work” that society and government recognize. In the essay, the writer calls the Social Security office to claim death benefits for her deceased mother. However, the clerk informs her that her mother “never worked,” meaning she never held a paid job covered by Social Security. This statement deeply hurts the writer because, in reality, her mother had worked tirelessly all her life.
Her mother performed countless tasks—cooking, cleaning, washing clothes, sewing, gardening, and caring for children—without ever receiving wages. The essay reveals that society only recognizes paid labor as real “work,” while domestic labor done by women at home is ignored and undervalued. Through this situation, Yackel exposes the injustice and gender bias in how work is defined and rewarded.
The writer presents her mother as a symbol of millions of housewives who dedicate their lives to their families but are never acknowledged as “workers.” Her mother’s contribution was essential for the survival and well-being of her family, yet society considered her “unemployed.”
Thus, the essay questions the social system that equates “work” only with monetary gain. It powerfully argues that unpaid domestic labor is real work and should be valued and respected equally.
Answer:
ReplyDeleteQ. Discuss the main idea of the essay and the writer’s attitude toward her mother’s life.
The main idea of the essay “My Mother Never Worked” by Bonnie Smith-Yackel is to show the injustice and lack of recognition given to women’s unpaid domestic labor. The essay criticizes society’s narrow view that only paid employment is considered “real work.”
The writer begins the essay by recalling a phone call to the Social Security office after her mother’s death. The clerk tells her that her mother “never worked,” meaning she never had a paid job covered by Social Security. This statement shocks and pains the writer because she knows her mother had worked endlessly throughout her life—cooking, washing, gardening, sewing, milking cows, and taking care of her children and husband.
Through this emotional narrative, Yackel highlights that her mother’s life was full of hard work, sacrifice, and dedication, even though she never earned a salary. The essay reveals the gender inequality in society, where men’s paid labor is valued but women’s unpaid household duties are ignored.
The writer’s attitude toward her mother is one of deep respect, admiration, and love. She portrays her mother as a strong, hardworking, and selfless woman who devoted her entire life to her family. The tone of the essay is emotional, ironic, and critical — emotional because of her love for her mother, ironic because of the statement “never worked,” and critical toward the unfair system that fails to value women’s contribution.
Summary: “How to Live Before You Die” – Steve Jobs
ReplyDeleteIn his inspirational speech, Steve Jobs shares three personal stories that teach powerful life lessons about connecting the dots, love and loss, and death.
• Connecting the Dots:
Jobs talks about dropping out of college but continuing to learn what interested him—like calligraphy. Later, this seemingly useless knowledge became essential in designing the beautiful typography of the first Macintosh computer. His message: Trust that the dots will connect in the future; follow your curiosity and intuition.
• Love and Loss:
Jobs explains how he was fired from Apple, the company he founded. Though it was painful, it led him to a creative period where he started NeXT and Pixar, and eventually returned to Apple stronger than before. His message: Find what you love to do, keep going even after failure, and don’t lose faith.
• Death:
Reflecting on his battle with cancer, Jobs reminds everyone that life is short. Knowing he would die soon helped him make brave choices and avoid living someone else’s life. His message: Your time is limited—don’t waste it living according to others’ expectations. Stay hungry, stay foolish.
Central Message:
Live with passion, purpose, and authenticity. Don’t be afraid to take risks, follow your heart, and make the most of your limited time on Earth.
a. Describe the expository scene of the story.
ReplyDeleteThe story opens with two treasure hunters, Evans and Hooker, paddling a canoe toward a coral island at noon. The sea is calm, the forest on the island looks thick and dark green, and there are hills and a small river flowing into the sea. This setting creates a mysterious and adventurous atmosphere.
b. What does the map look like and how do Evan and Hooker interpret it?
The map is old, worn, and creased from excessive folding. Some parts are unclear. Evans interprets the twisted lines on the map as a river and the star mark as the exact treasure spot. Hooker interprets the dotted and straight lines as paths leading to the lagoon and the treasure site. However, both misunderstand the small dashes drawn all over the map.
c. How did Evan and Hooker know about the treasure?
Evans and Hooker learned about the treasure by overhearing Chang-hi, the Chinese man, talking about it. They also stole his map, which revealed the treasure’s location.
e. What do the two treasure hunters see when they walk towards the island?
As they walk toward the interior of the island, the men see three palm trees, thick bushes, and dim white flowers near the mouth of a stream. They also discover a swollen dead body of a Chinese man, which surprises them.
f. In what condition did the treasure hunters find the dead man?
They find the dead man lying in a clear open space among the trees. His neck is purple and swollen, and his hands and ankles are puffed up, suggesting a painful and unnatural death.
g. How did the treasure hunters try to carry the gold ingots to the canoe?
Evans and Hooker used Evans’s coat as a makeshift bag. Each man held one end of the coat’s collar and loaded the gold ingots onto it to drag them back to the canoe.
h. How were Evan and Hooker poisoned?
Both men were poisoned by touching sharp poisoned thorns hidden among the gold. Evans first felt a thorn prick while picking up the ingots. Later, while adjusting the gold, Hooker also pricked his thumb on a slender two-inch thorn. The poison quickly spread, causing both of them to collapse and die.
d. Describe Evans’s dream.
ReplyDeleteEvans’s dream was strange, vivid, and mysterious. As he sat in the canoe with his eyes closed, he began to see different scenes. He dreamed that he and Hooker were walking through a forest, searching for something. Suddenly, he saw three Chinese men sitting around a fire and talking softly in English about a hidden treasure. Evans and Hooker moved closer so they could hear their conversation clearly and learned that the treasure was Spanish gold.
In his dream, Evans then saw himself grabbing Chang-hi by the neck while Chang-hi begged, saying “No” and “Please.” After taking the map from him, Evans silenced him. Next, Evans saw piles of gold in large quantities. Finally, Chang-hi appeared again with his eyes wide open, looking like a frightening creature with a tail. He smiled mysteriously and called out Evans’s name, which startled Evans and woke him up.
e. What do the two treasure hunters see when they walk towards the island?
ReplyDeleteAs Evans and Hooker walk toward the interior of the island, they see thick bushes blocking their way and have to cut through them. They notice large white flowers they have never seen before. Moving further, they are shocked to find the swollen and discolored dead body of a Chinese man lying face down on the grass.
f. In what condition did the treasure hunters find the dead man
The treasure hunters find the dead man in a terrible condition. His body is swollen, his face is turned downwards on the grass, and his skin has turned black and purple. When Evans checks more closely, he realizes the dead person is a Chinese man. The body appears to have been lying there for many days.
g. How did the treasure hunters try to carry the gold ingots to the canoe?
Evans and Hooker used Evans’s coat to carry the gold ingots. They spread the coat on the ground, placed as many gold bars as they could on it, and each held one end of the collar to drag it. The load was very heavy, so they struggled and had difficulty lifting and moving it toward the canoe.
h. How were Evans and Hooker poisoned?
Evans and Hooker were poisoned by touching deadly thorns hidden among the gold. Evans was pricked first while picking up the ingots, and the poison quickly spread through his body. Later, Hooker was also pricked by a similar thorn when rearranging the gold. These were Dyak poison thorns, the same ones shown as tiny dashes on the map. Soon both men felt severe pain, trembled violently, and died before they could reach the canoe.
a. It will snow in Brighton tomorrow evening.
ReplyDelete✔ Reason:
We use will + V1 for predictions about the future based on opinion, belief, or expectation.
b. On Friday at 8 o'clock, I am going to meet my friend.
✔ Reason:
“Be going to” is used for plans or arrangements already decided before the moment of speaking.
c. Wait! I will drive you to the station.
✔ Reason:
We use will for decisions made at the moment of speaking (instant decisions).
d. When they get married in March, they will have been together for six years.
✔ Reason:
Future perfect (will have + past participle) expresses an action that will be completed before a specific future moment.
e. You're carrying too much. I will open the door for you.
✔ Reason:
Again, will is used for offers and spontaneous decisions.
f. Do you think the teacher will have marked our homework by Monday morning?
✔ Reason:
Future perfect is used to talk about something that will already be finished before a future deadline.
g. When I see you tomorrow, I will show you my new book.
✔ Reason:
Future action dependent on another future event → use will + V1.
h. After you take a nap, you will feel a lot better.
✔ Reason:
General future result after a condition → will + V1.
i. I will let you know the second the builders finish decorating.
✔ Reason:
A promise or assurance uses will.
j. We will wait in the shelter until the bus comes.
✔ Reason:
A future decision or intention → will + V1.
k. I'm very sorry, Dr. Jones won’t be back in the clinic until 2 pm.
✔ Reason:
Negative future fact → will not (won’t).
l. This summer, I will have been living in Birgunj for four years.
✔ Reason:
Future perfect continuous shows an action in progress up to a future time.
m. I don't think you will have any problems when you land in Pokhara.
✔ Reason:
Prediction about the future → will + V1.
n. The baby should be due soon; next week she will have been pregnant for nine months.
✔ Reason:
Future perfect, showing a completed duration by a future date.
o. By the time we get home, they will have been playing football for 30 minutes.
✔ Reason:
Future perfect continuous is used to express an action continuing up to a specific future moment.
p. When you get off the train, I will be waiting for you by the ticket machine.
✔ Reason:
Future continuous shows an action that will be in progress at a certain time in the future.
q. This time next week, I will be skiing in Switzerland!
✔ Reason:
Future continuous describes planned future activity already scheduled.
r. Now, I am going to check my answers.
✔ Reason:
“Going to” expresses an immediate intention or something you are about to do very soon.
a. Water boils at 100° C.
ReplyDelete✔ Correct form: Water boils at 100°C.
Reason:
A scientific fact → use present simple.
b. The water boils. Can you turn it off?
✔ Correct form: The water is boiling. Can you turn it off?
Reason:
It is happening right now → use present continuous.
c. I must go now. It gets late.
Incorrect: It gets late.
✔ Correct form: I must go now. It is getting late.
Reason:
A situation in progress / changing → use present continuous.
d. This sauce's tasting really good.
Incorrect: is tasting
✔ Correct form: This sauce tastes really good.
Reason:
Sense verbs (taste, smell, feel, hear) expressing a state or opinion → use present simple, not continuous.
e. I’m thinking this is your key.
Incorrect: I’m thinking
✔ Correct form: I think this is your key.
Reason:
“Think” meaning opinion is a state verb, not used in continuous form.
f. Are you believing in God?
Incorrect: Are you believing?
✔ Correct form: Do you believe in God?
Reason:
“Believe” is a state verb → use present simple.
g. I usually go to school on foot.
✔ Correct form: I usually go to school on foot.
Reason:
A habit/routine → present simple.
h. Look! That man tries to open the door of her car.
Incorrect: tries
✔ Correct form: Look! That man is trying to open the door of her car.
Reason:
Happening right now → present continuous.
i. The moon is going round the earth.
Incorrect: is going round
✔ Correct form: The moon goes round the earth.
Reason:
A universal fact → present simple.
j. I'm getting hungry. Let's go and eat.
✔ Correct form: I'm getting hungry. Let's go and eat.
Reason:
A temporary, changing situation → present continuous is correct.
Extra Preposition Exercises
ReplyDeleteA. Basic Level (Fill in the correct preposition)
• Rita is very good ____ dancing.
• He apologized ____ being late.
• My house is far ____ the city.
• They are interested ____ learning Japanese.
• The teacher is angry ____ the students.
• The cat is hiding ____ the table.
• We will meet ____ 5 p.m.
• She goes to school ____ bus.
• The keys are ____ the drawer.
• He laughed ____ her joke.
B. Intermediate Level (Choose the correct preposition)
• I’m responsible (for / of / with) organizing the program.
• The students complained (about / for / to) the noise.
• She is afraid (of / from / by) spiders.
• They succeeded (in / on / at) winning the match.
• Don’t worry (about / for / with) your exam.
• The book is full (of / with / about) interesting facts.
• He depends (in / on / to) his parents for money.
• She congratulated me (on / for / of) my promotion.
• The shop is open (from / since / at) 9 a.m.
• I’m familiar (with / to / about) her work.
C. Advanced Level (Correct the prepositions, if necessary)
• He left the job on his own will.
• She insisted for going there.
• We arrived to Kathmandu late at night.
• The meeting was postponed from next week.
• The project failed for lack of planning.
• She is gifted on music.
• He prefers tea than coffee.
• They are capable to solving the problem.
• The students were divided in groups.
• He was accused for stealing money.
A. Basic Level
ReplyDelete• Rita is very good at dancing.
Rule: Good at + activity.
• He apologized for being late.
Rule: Apologize for something.
• My house is far from the city.
Rule: Far from indicates distance.
• They are interested in learning Japanese.
Rule: Interested in + noun/gerund.
• The teacher is angry with the students.
Rule: Angry with a person.
• The cat is hiding under the table.
Rule: Under shows lower position.
• We will meet at 5 p.m.
Rule: At is used for specific time.
• She goes to school by bus.
Rule: By + transport (no article).
• The keys are in the drawer.
Rule: In shows inside a space.
• He laughed at her joke.
Rule: Laugh at something funny.
B. Intermediate Level
• I’m responsible for organizing the program.
Rule: Responsible for.
• The students complained about the noise.
Rule: Complain about something.
• She is afraid of spiders.
Rule: Afraid of.
• They succeeded in winning the match.
Rule: Succeed in + -ing verb.
• Don’t worry about your exam.
Rule: Worry about.
• The book is full of interesting facts.
Rule: Full of.
• He depends on his parents for money.
Rule: Depend on.
• She congratulated me on my promotion.
Rule: Congratulate someone on something.
• The shop is open from 9 a.m.
Rule: From… to… shows duration.
• I’m familiar with her work.
Rule: Familiar with something.
C. Advanced Level (Correct the prepositions)
• He left the job of his own will. (Correct: of)
Rule: Expression: of one’s own will.
• She insisted on going there.
Rule: Insist on + -ing.
• We arrived in Kathmandu late at night.
Rule: Arrive in a large place (city/country).
• The meeting was postponed to next week.
Rule: Postpone to a future date.
• The project failed for lack of planning. (Correct as is)
Rule: Fail for lack of… means “because of not having.”
• She is gifted in music.
Rule: Gifted in a field or skill.
• He prefers tea to coffee.
Rule: Prefer A to B.
• They are capable of solving the problem.
Rule: Capable of + -ing.
• The students were divided into groups.
Rule: Divide into parts.
• He was accused of stealing money.
Rule: Accused of a crime.
Rules
ReplyDeleteWhat are we seeing here? One very real possibility is that these are the educational consequences of the differences in parenting styles that we talked about in the Chris Langan chapter.
Rule: “In” is used to show inclusion or something located inside a topic, chapter, or category.
Think back to Alex Williams, the nine-year-old whom Annette Lareau studied. His parents believe in connected cultivation.
Rule: “Believe in” is a fixed phrase meaning to have faith or trust in something.
He gets taken to museums and gets enrolled in special programs and goes to summer camp, where he takes classes.
Rule:
• “To” shows movement toward a place.
• “In” shows participation or membership in a program.
When he's bored at home, there are plenty of books to read, and his parents see it as their responsibility to keep him actively engaged in the world for him.
Rule:
• “At home” is a fixed phrase using “at” for a specific location.
• “Engaged in” is a fixed phrase showing involvement in an activity.
• “For him” expresses benefit or purpose.
It's hard to see how Alex would get better at reading and math in the summer.
Rule:
• “Good/better at” is a fixed phrase showing skill.
• “In the summer” is used for months/seasons/time periods.
Here is a clearer and more polished rewritten version:
ReplyDeleteA. Write a description of an event that you have recently witnessed.
Recently, I witnessed a remarkable celestial event: a full lunar eclipse. It was especially significant because astronomers had announced it as the longest lunar eclipse of this century, occurring on July 27. Watching it was a bit challenging for me, as I had to stay awake late into the night. The eclipse began at 11:30 p.m. and lasted until 1:00 a.m.
I was joined by a few friends who also wanted to experience this rare sight. For one and a half hours, we kept our eyes fixed on the sky. Although it was somewhat tiring, the breathtaking view of the eclipse made the effort truly worthwhile.
Use of While
ReplyDeleteRule:
While is used for two long actions happening at the same time.
(Usually both actions are in the past continuous.)
Examples:
• While I was cooking, my sister was cleaning.
• While the students were studying, the teacher was checking homework.
• While he was walking home, it started raining.
Use of When
Rule:
When is used for:
1. A short action that interrupts a longer action.
(Short action → past simple, Long action → past continuous)
Examples:
• I was reading when the lights went off.
• She was sleeping when the alarm rang.
• They were playing when the teacher came in.
2. A general time or moment in the past (past simple).
• When I reached the station, the train had left.
• When I heard the phone ring, I picked it up.
• When he finished his homework, he went outside.
Easy Trick to Remember
• While = two long actions together
(A was doing… while B was doing…)
• When = short action interrupting a long action
(A was doing… when B did…)
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ReplyDeleteHere is the Oxford English Dictionary (OED) pronunciation of A–Z in IPA (British English).
ReplyDeleteThese are standard Received Pronunciation (RP) forms used in Oxford dictionaries.
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🔤 A–Z Pronunciation (Oxford / British IPA)
Letter Oxford IPA Pronunciation How it sounds
A /eɪ/ ए (ay)
B /biː/ बी (bee)
C /siː/ सी (see)
D /diː/ डी (dee)
E /iː/ ई (ee)
F /ɛf/ एफ (ef)
G /dʒiː/ जी (jee)
H /eɪtʃ/ एच (ay-ch)
I /aɪ/ आइ (eye)
J /dʒeɪ/ जे (jay)
K /keɪ/ के (kay)
L /ɛl/ एल (el)
M /ɛm/ एम (em)
N /ɛn/ एन (en)
O /əʊ/ ओ (oh)
P /piː/ पी (pee)
Q /kjuː/ क्यू (kyoo)
R /ɑː/ आर (ar)
S /ɛs/ एस (es)
T /tiː/ टी (tee)
U /juː/ यू (yoo)
V /viː/ भी (vee)
W /ˈdʌb.əl.juː/ डब्ल्यु (dub-lyoo)
X /ɛks/ एक्स (eks)
Y /waɪ/ वाइ (why)
Z /zɛd/ ज़ेड (zed) (British), /ziː/ is America
Main Idea
ReplyDeleteThe main idea of Steve Jobs’ speech is that life becomes meaningful when we follow our passion, trust our inner voice, and live each day as if it might be our last. Jobs encourages students to:
• Follow their heart and pursue what they truly love.
• Connect the dots of life by trusting that past experiences—good or bad—will have meaning in the future.
• Learn from failures, seeing them as opportunities for new beginnings.
• Accept death as a motivator to live authentically and fearlessly.
• Avoid living according to others’ expectations and instead focus on one’s own dreams.
Overall, the speech inspires people to live purposefully, courageously, and creatively before they die.
Summary of “How to Live Before I Die”
ReplyDelete“How to Live Before I Die” is a motivational speech delivered by Steve Jobs at Stanford University. In his speech, Jobs shares three personal stories from his life to inspire the graduates.
In the first story, Connecting the Dots, he explains how dropping out of college allowed him to explore what he loved—like calligraphy—which later helped him design the beautiful typography of Apple computers. He emphasizes that we must trust that the dots of life will connect in the future.
In the second story, Love and Loss, Jobs talks about how he was fired from Apple, the company he founded. Although it was painful, the setback pushed him to start new companies like NeXT and Pixar, which became very successful. He highlights the importance of loving what we do and not losing hope when life hits us hard.
In the third story, Death, Jobs reflects on his battle with cancer. Thinking about death taught him that life is short, so we must follow our heart, avoid living someone else’s life, and stay true to ourselves.
Through these stories, Jobs tells the audience to live with passion, trust their journey, remain resilient, and live each day as if it might be their last.
A. Tick the correct one + Rules Explained
ReplyDeletea. He has obtained full marks.
Rule: Use plural “marks” when talking about exam scores.
b. More than two boys were absent.
Rule: “More than one” takes a plural verb except “more than one boy is…”; here “two boys” = plural.
c. One of the boys was not found there.
Rule: “One of” is always followed by a plural noun.
d. His wonder knew no bounds.
Rule: “Know no bounds” is an idiomatic expression.
e. I give you my word.
Rule: “Give my word” means “promise”; it is always singular.
f. He gave me much good advice.
Rule: “Advice” is uncountable → no plural form; “much” is used with uncountable nouns.
g. He gave wrong information.
Rule: “Information” is uncountable → no plural form.
h. Give me two dozen eggs.
Rule: After a number, the noun stays singular (two dozen eggs, three hundred people).
i. Six miles is a long distance.
Rule: A measurement treated as a single unit takes a singular verb.
j. The clock has struck four hour.
Rule: In time expression with “strike,” the noun remains singular.
k. Would you lend me a ten rupee note?
Rule: When a number + noun is used as an adjective (ten-rupee note), it stays singular.
l. Nepal government makes five year development plan.
Rule: Adjective form: “five-year plan” (no plural).
m. They went to Singapore on a four day trip.
Rule: In adjective position (four-day trip), use singular.
B. Correct Sentences with Rules
a. All my books are lost.
Rule: “All” comes before possessive adjectives (all my books).
b. Both his brothers are ill.
Rule: “Both” comes before possessive adjectives (both his…).
c. Give me a hundred rupees.
Correct sentence:
Give me a hundred rupees.
Rule: When talking about actual money, the noun becomes plural.
d. Everybody except me was absent.
Rule: After prepositions (except, besides, between, for), use object pronoun (me, him, her).
e. He died of fever.
Rule: “Was died” is incorrect. “Die” is an intransitive verb.
f. It has been raining for a week.
Rule: “For + duration” requires present perfect continuous.
g. I saw my friend long ago.
Rule: Past time expressions (long ago, yesterday, last year) require simple past.
h. My friend had gone out before I arrived.
Rule: Earlier past action → past perfect.
i. He said he had never seen him before.
Rule: Indirect speech: present perfect → past perfect.
j. He assured he would come.
Rule: In indirect speech, “will” changes to “would”.
Corrected Answers + Rules
ReplyDeleteA. Complete the sentences with however, although, or in spite of
Rules to Remember
• Although + clause (subject + verb)
→ Although he was tired, he continued working.
• In spite of / Despite + noun / pronoun / gerund
→ In spite of the rain, we went out.
→ Despite being tired, he worked.
• However + sentence (contrast)
→ He is rich. However, he is unhappy.
Corrected Sentences
a. In spite of the fact that he is an octogenarian, he still leads an active life.
✔ Rule: “In spite of” is followed by a noun phrase.
b. I still enjoyed the week although the weather was bad.
✔ Rule: “Although” must be followed by a full clause.
c. He has passed MA. However, he hasn’t got a job.
✔ Rule: “However” connects two sentences showing contrast.
d. Although I had a headache, I enjoyed the movie.
✔ Rule: No comma after “Although”.
e. Ramila didn’t get the job in spite of the fact that she had all the necessary qualifications.
✔ Rule: “In spite of” + noun phrase.
f. In spite of the fact that he had no money, he bought the car anyway.
✔ Rule: “In spite of” introduces a contrast.
g. We can go to the park for lunch although the weather report says it's going to rain.
✔ Rule: “Although” + clause.
h. My first language is actually Maithili; however, I speak English well.
✔ Rule: “However” cannot join two clauses directly.
It must connect two separate sentences or be used after a semicolon.
C. Combine the sentences using the given words
a. Although he was annoyed, he didn’t say anything.
✔ Rule: “Although” + clause.
b. Playing the stock market is exciting; however, it can be risky.
✔ Rule: “However” joins two contrasting sentences — use a semicolon or full stop.
c. Even though he works slowly, he never makes a mistake.
✔ Rule: “Even though” introduces a stronger contrast than “although”.
d. In spite of the rain, we still went to the park.
✔ Rule: “In spite of” + noun (the rain).
e. Despite being expensive, Hark bought the watch.
✔ Rule: “Despite” + noun/gerund; “being expensive” = gerund phrase.
f. He is very poor, but he wears expensive clothes.
✔ Rule: “But” connects two contrasting clauses.
Rules for Relative Clauses
ReplyDelete• who → for people (subject)
• whom → for people (object)
• whose → shows possession
• which → for things/animals (non-essential or essential clause)
• that → for people or things (essential clause)
• where → for places
• when → for time
• what → means “the thing(s) that” (cannot be used to join two full sentences)
Corrected Answers
a.
The building which was destroyed in the fire, has now been rebuilt.
✔ The building which was destroyed in the fire has now been rebuilt.
Rule: which is used for things.
b.
A new cricket stadium which is being made in Chitwan, can accommodate…
✔ A new cricket stadium which is being made in Chitwan can accommodate one hundred thousand people.
Rule: No comma before defining relative clause.
c.
Shanghai, where I stayed there for five years… (Incorrect: there is repeated)
✔ Shanghai, where I stayed for five years, is the most populated city in the world.
Rule: where replaces there.
d.
This is the man whom I gave some money this morning. (Missing to)
✔ This is the man to whom I gave some money this morning.
OR (more natural)
✔ This is the man whom I gave some money to this morning.
Rule: whom is object; preposition can come before or after.
e.
✔ Do you know the man whose son was awarded in the school yesterday?
Rule: whose shows possession.
f.
✔ His step-mother, with whom he had been staying, was not very kind to him.
Rule: Use whom after a preposition.
g.
✔ He can never forget Nakkhu Jail where he had spent 14 years.
Rule: where replaces there.
h.
✔ He showed me his new tab for which he had paid a hundred thousand rupees.
Rule: for which replaces for it.
i.
✔ Nelson Mandela joined ANC in the 1930s when he was a student.
Rule: when refers to time.
j.
✔ She forgot to buy the things which her mother had told her to buy.
Rule: which refers to things.
. Fill in the blanks with suitable relative pronouns: who, which, that, whom, whose, where, why, how, what or when.
ReplyDeletea. There is a lady whose wallet has been stolen.
b. Do you know the man who sold these glasses?
c. The knife which you cut the bread with is very sharp.
d. Why do you blame him for everything that goes wrong?
e. A cemetery is a place where dead bodies are buried.
f. This school is for those children whose mother tongue is not Nepali.
g. I don’t know the name of the person whom I spoke over the telephone.
h. I came to Kathmandu on the day when the devastating earthquake took place.
i. In the application form she wrote when she needed a good payment.
j. The pilot explained why he made force landing on the road.
1. Securities (प्रतिभूति)
ReplyDeleteपरिभाषा:
प्रतिभूति भनेको सरकार वा कम्पनीले पैसा उठाउनका लागि बजारमा जारी गर्ने वित्तीय कागजातहरू हुन्। यी कागजातहरू किन्न–बेच्न सकिन्छ र भविष्यमा नाफा–लाभ प्राप्त गर्न सकिन्छ।
उदाहरण: सेयर (Share), ऋणपत्र (Bond), डिबेन्चर (Debenture), म्युचुअल फन्ड आदि।
2. NEPSE (नेपाल स्टक एक्सचेन्ज)
परिभाषा:
नेपाल स्टक एक्सचेन्ज (NEPSE) भनेको नेपालमा सेयर तथा अन्य प्रतिभूति किनबेच हुने मुख्य बजार हो। यहाँ सूचीबद्ध कम्पनीहरूको सेयर किन्न र बेच्न सकिन्छ।
सार:
नेपालको आधिकारिक सेयर बजार।
3. Broker (दलाल / सेयर ब्रोकर)
परिभाषा:
ब्रोकर भनेको NEPSE बाट लाइसेन्स पाएका व्यक्ति वा कम्पनीहरू हुन्, जसले लगानीकर्ताको तर्फबाट सेयर किन्न–बेच्ने काम गर्छन्। तिनीहरूले सेवाको बदलामा कमिशन लिन्छन्।
सार:
ब्रोकर = लगानीकर्ता र सेयर बजार बीचको अधिकारप्राप्त मध्यस्थ।
4. Listed Company (सूचीबद्ध कम्पनी)
परिभाषा:
सूचीबद्ध कम्पनी भनेको NEPSE मा दर्ता (सूचीबद्ध) भएको कम्पनी हो, जसको सेयर सार्वजनिक रूपमा किन्न–बेच्न सकिन्छ। यस्ता कम्पनीले आफ्ना वित्तीय विवरण र जानकारीहरू सार्वजनिक गर्नुपर्छ।
सार:
सूचीबद्ध कम्पनी = सेयर बजारमा खुला रूपमा सेयर बिक्री गर्ने कम्पनी।
Rules for Connectives
ReplyDelete1. Because
• Used to give a direct reason.
• Usually answers “Why…?”
• Followed by a subject + verb.
Example:
• I stayed home because I was sick.
2. Since
• Also gives a reason, but sounds a little softer or more formal than because.
• Followed by a subject + verb.
Example:
• We didn’t play football since it was raining.
3. As
• Gives a reason, similar to because and since.
• Often used at the beginning of a sentence.
Example:
• As I was tired, I went to bed early.
4. Because of
• Used when the reason is a noun or noun phrase, not a full sentence.
Structure:
because of + noun / noun phrase
Example:
• The school was closed because of heavy rain.
(NOT: because of it was raining ❌)
5. Owing to
• Same meaning as because of, but more formal.
Structure:
owing to + noun / noun phrase
Example:
• The flight was cancelled owing to bad weather.
ReplyDeleteB. Complete the following sentences using the correct prepositions of direction: to, toward, onto, or into.
a. Prem drove Milan …… the airport.
b. The plane landed …… the runway.
c. The kids climbed …… the monkey bars.
d. Manish and Richa moved the table …… the dining room.
e. Ganesh almost fell …… the river.
f. Lalit and Sarita took the bus that was heading …… the university.
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C. Complete the sentences with the correct preposition from the brackets.
a. While we were hiking …… the forest, we saw a mountain lion. (across/through/along/under)
b. The leopards walked in a circle …… the baby giraffe before they attacked. (into/towards/round/through)
c. Go …… the building and turn left. (into/up/off/out of)
d. She ran …… home when she was eighteen. (towards/away from/down/across)
e. Raindrops ran …… the windscreen making it difficult to see the road. (into/up/down/over)
f. Hemanta put the plate …… the table and began to eat his dinner. (onto/into/up/off)
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D. Complete the sentences using will or be going to with the verbs.
a. Hari: Did you call Bina?
Prem: Oh, I forgot. I ………… her now. (call)
b. Sunita: Have you got a ticket for the play?
Hema: Yes, I ………… it on Saturday. (watch)
c. “The alarm is ringing. It’s making an awful noise.”
“OK, I ……… it off.” (switch)
d. Do you think they ……… the presents we got for them? (like)
e. “Lok is starting university tomorrow.”
“What ……… he ……… ?” (he/study)
f. If I meet him, I ……… him the news. (tell)
g. The phone is ringing. I ……… it. (answer)
h. If you don’t stop bullying her, I ……… the teacher. (tell)
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D. Put the verb into the correct form and complete the sentences.
a. I went to see the film, but I ………… it. (not/enjoy)
b. I ………… Rojina in town a few days ago. (meet)
c. It was very warm, so I ………… my coat. (take off)
d. Though the bed was very comfortable, I ………… very well. (not/sleep)
e. I ………… a new job last week. (start)
f. He ………… too busy in the office yesterday. (be)
g. Nita ………… her to the party, but she didn’t come. (invite)
Solved Answers
ReplyDelete(Class-11)
B. Complete the following sentences using the correct prepositions of direction: to, toward, onto, or into.
a. Prem drove Milan to the airport.
b. The plane landed onto the runway.
c. The kids climbed onto the monkey bars.
d. Manish and Richa moved the table into the dining room.
e. Ganesh almost fell into the river.
f. Lalit and Sarita took the bus that was heading toward the university.
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C. Complete the sentences with the correct preposition from the brackets.
a. While we were hiking through the forest, we saw a mountain lion. (across/through/along/under)
b. The leopards walked in a circle round the baby giraffe before they attacked. (into/towards/round/through)
c. Go into the building and turn left. (into/up/off/out of)
d. She ran away from home when she was eighteen. (towards/away from/down/across)
e. Raindrops ran down the windscreen making it difficult to see the road. (into/up/down/over)
f. Hemanta put the plate onto the table and began to eat his dinner. (onto/into/up/off)
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D. Complete the sentences using will or be going to with the verbs.
a. Hari: Did you call Bina?
Prem: Oh, I forgot. I will call her now. (call)
b. Hema: Yes, I am going to watch it on Saturday. (watch)
c. “The alarm is ringing. It’s making an awful noise.”
“OK, I will switch it off.” (switch)
d. Do you think they will like the presents we got for them? (like)
e. “Lok is starting university tomorrow.”
“What is he going to study?” (he/study)
f. If I meet him, I will tell him the news. (tell)
g. The phone is ringing. I will answer it. (answer)
h. If you don’t stop bullying her, I will tell the teacher. (tell)
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D. Put the verb into the correct form and complete the sentences.
a. I went to see the film, but I didn’t enjoy it. (not/enjoy)
b. I met Rojina in town a few days ago. (meet)
c. It was very warm, so I took off my coat. (take off)
d. Though the bed was very comfortable, I did not sleep very well. (not/sleep)
e. I started a new job last week. (start)
f. He was too busy in the office yesterday. (be)
g. Nita invited her to the party, but she didn’t come. (invite)
Summary
ReplyDelete“The Half-Closed Eyes of the Buddha and the Slowly Sinking Sun” by Shankar Lamichhane is a story that shows Nepal’s beauty, culture, peace, and also its hidden pain. The story is written as the thoughts of a tourist and a tourist guide.
First Part (Tourist’s Thoughts)
The tourist expresses her deep love for Nepal. She describes the green fields, clay houses, blue hills, and especially the half-closed eyes of the Buddha that seem to welcome her. She feels that Nepal is full of peace and spirituality. She believes Nepali people do not always understand how special their country is.
She also talks about many kinds of eyes she has seen in Nepal—eyes in windows, temples, stupas, and even people’s eyes. She calls Nepal a “land of eyes,” protected by the peaceful gaze of the Buddha. She believes that even if all history books were destroyed, these eyes would be enough to rebuild Nepal’s culture.
Second Part (Guide’s Thoughts)
The tourist guide then shares his own ideas. He takes the tourist to Chobhar Hill, where Manjushri is believed to have cut a gorge, allowing the Bagmati River to flow. To show the real life of Nepal, he brings her to a poor farmer’s house where a boy suffering from polio lives. The boy cannot move or speak; only his eyes are alive. The guide says that the boy’s eyes show great strength and patience—qualities found deeply in Eastern people.
Ending
In the end, the guide tells the tourist that until now she has only seen the “happy eyes” of Nepal—the eyes that welcome foreigners. But there are also eyes full of pain. The boy’s eyes, full of sorrow, are still beautiful, just like the setting sun reflected in the Buddha’s eyes.
Thus, the story shows both the beauty and the suffering of Nepal, and the deeper meaning hidden in the half-closed eyes of the Buddha.
a. How does the tourist describe his initial impression of the Kathmandu Valley?
ReplyDeleteThe tourist describes the Kathmandu Valley as naturally beautiful. He admires the green fields, the smell of the soil, and the clay houses painted in red, yellow, and white. He feels the peaceful air of the mountains and is fascinated by the overall scenery of the valley.
b. According to the tourist, why is the West indebted to the East?
The tourist believes the West is indebted to the East because the East has given the world rich civilizations, ancient texts, religious stories, metal and wooden artworks, and palm-leaf manuscripts. The spiritual atmosphere, culture, and religious harmony of the East deeply inspire the West.
c. How does the tourist interpret the gaze of the monks and nuns?
The tourist interprets the gaze of monks and nuns as the “samyak gaze,” meaning a pure and peaceful look. She believes their eyes are free from impurity, discrimination, or worldly desires.
d. Why do the tourists think Nepali people are wonderful and exceptional?
The tourists think Nepali people are wonderful because they live together peacefully. Different communities coexist with kindness, mutual respect, and harmony, which makes the people special.
e. What are the different kinds of communities in the Kathmandu Valley and how do they coexist?
The Kathmandu Valley is home to Aryans, non-Aryans, Hindus, and Buddhists. These communities live together peacefully because the culture of Nepal teaches unity, harmony, and respect for different beliefs.
f. What does the tourist feel about the temple of Adinath?
When she sees the Adinath Temple from Chobhar Hill, she feels it represents Nepal’s religious tolerance. She believes Nepal stands out as a land where many gods, religions, and philosophies coexist beautifully.
g. Why does the guide take the tourist to the remote village?
The guide takes the tourist to a remote village to show the real and difficult life of Nepali people. He wants her to see the poverty and suffering that do not appear in books, stories, or tourist photographs.
h. What does the innocent village couple think of the doctor?
The innocent village couple believes the doctor is like their eldest son who has returned from across the seas bringing medicine to save their sick child.
i. What are the differences between the paralyzed child and his sister?
The paralyzed boy cannot speak, move, chew, or control his body. Only his eyes show that he is alive.
In contrast, his sister is healthy and active. She crawls everywhere, picks up things, and plays freely.
j. Why does the guide show the instances of poverty to the tourist?
The guide shows the tourist scenes of poverty to help her understand the true reality of Nepal. She had only seen the beautiful and peaceful side of the country. The guide wants her to see both the bright and the painful sides of Nepali life.
Central Theme of “The Half-Closed Eyes of the Buddha and the Slowly Sinking Sun”
ReplyDeleteThe central theme of the story is the contrast between the outer beauty and inner suffering of Nepal, and the deeper spiritual meaning hidden in everyday life.
Shankar Lamichhane uses the eyes of the Buddha and the setting sun as symbols to show that Nepal is a land of peace, harmony, and spiritual richness. The tourist sees the natural beauty, culture, temples, and the calm eyes of the Buddha that represent wisdom and tranquility.
However, the tourist guide also shows her the harsh reality—poverty, pain, and the struggles of ordinary people, especially the paralyzed child whose eyes are filled with silent suffering.
Through this contrast, the story highlights:
• Nepal’s cultural and spiritual greatness
• The peaceful coexistence of different religions and communities
• The hidden pain and poverty behind the beautiful surface
• The importance of seeing the truth deeply, like the half-closed eyes of the Buddha
In simple terms, the theme is that Nepal is a land of both beauty and suffering, and true understanding comes when we look at life with wisdom, compassion, and depth.
Astrologer’s Day”
ReplyDelete“An Astrologer’s Day” is a short story by R.K. Narayan that revolves around a street astrologer who earns his living by reading people’s palms and telling fortunes. In reality, he has no special knowledge of astrology; he simply depends on his sharp observation, experience, and clever words to impress his customers.
The astrologer had run away from his village in his youth after injuring a man in a fight, thinking he had killed him. He settled in a distant town and started a new life as an astrologer, hiding his past.
One evening, while he is about to close his business, a stranger approaches him for a prediction. During their conversation, the astrologer realizes that the stranger is Guru Nayak, the same man he had attacked years ago. Guru Nayak is searching for the person who tried to kill him, hoping to take revenge.
Terrified but acting calmly, the astrologer lies and tells Guru Nayak that the man he is looking for is already dead. He also advises him to return to his village and never come to the city again if he wants to stay safe. Guru Nayak believes him and leaves.
Afterward, the astrologer goes home relieved and tells his wife the truth: the man he thought he had killed is actually alive. For the first time, he feels free from the fear and guilt that had haunted him for years.
Central idea
The story shows how fate, guilt, and coincidence shape people’s lives. It also highlights how appearances can be deceiving, as the astrologer is not a real fortune-teller but manages to influence people's decisions.
a. How does the astrologer’s appearance help him attract customers? How does he help the customers satisfy their needs?
ReplyDeleteThe astrologer’s appearance creates a strong impression on the people. His eyes seem to shine with a prophetic light, and he wears a saffron turban that makes him look wise and spiritual. His overall presentation is so convincing that he easily attracts the attention of passers-by. He satisfies his customers by giving thoughtful and practical advice about their problems, such as marriage, money, and personal worries. His keen observation and analytical skills make people believe in his words.
b. How do you characterize the astrologer’s attitude toward the stranger?
At first, the astrologer sees the stranger simply as another customer. However, when he recognizes who the stranger actually is, his attitude changes completely. He becomes tense, cautious, and fearful, though he hides his emotions and continues to speak cleverly.
c. What details does the astrologer give the stranger about his past?
The astrologer tells the stranger that he had once been stabbed with a knife and thrown into a well to die. He adds that some people passing by rescued him just in time. These details shock the stranger because they match his own real-life experience.
d. Why does he advise the stranger to go home immediately?
He advises the stranger to go home immediately to protect him from future danger. The astrologer warns him never to return to the city if he wants to stay safe because the man he is seeking for revenge is already dead. This advice is actually meant to keep the stranger away from him.
e. What is your reaction to the conversation between the astrologer and his wife?
The conversation reveals a surprising truth about the astrologer’s past. When he returns home, he tells his wife that he once thought he had killed a man. Now he feels relieved because the man he believed dead is actually alive. This twist adds depth to the story and shows the astrologer’s long-hidden guilt and sudden freedom from fear.
✔ Corrected Sentences with Reasons
ReplyDeletea. She played the flute and then she had sung in their choir.
She had played the flute and then she sang in their choir.
Reason:
• The action that happened first (playing the flute) should be past perfect (had played).
• The action that happened next (singing) should be simple past (sang).
b. I borrowed Rima’s car. Had you known about it?
I had borrowed Rima’s car. Had you known about it?
Reason:
• “Had you known…?” refers to a time earlier, so the action “borrowed” must also be in past perfect to show it happened before that.
c. After the lesson had finished, we run out of school.
After the lesson had finished, we ran out of school.
Reason:
• “Run” is wrong because it is present.
• After the past perfect clause, we use simple past → ran.
d. Had you be there? – Yes, the previous year.
Had you been there? – Yes, the previous year.
Reason:
• After “had,” the verb must be in V3 (past participle) → “been.”
e. Did you liked my article…?
Did you like my article…?
Reason:
• After did, the verb must be in base form (V1).
• So like, not liked.
f. I recognized him because I saw him before.
I recognized him because I had seen him before.
Reason:
• “Had seen” happened earlier than recognizing, so use past perfect for the earlier event.
g. I hadn’t gone out because I hadn’t finished my homework.
I didn’t go out because I hadn’t finished my homework.
Reason:
• The main action “didn’t go out” is in simple past.
• The reason happened earlier (“hadn’t finished”), so it stays past perfect.
h. We had done nothing like this at that time.
We did nothing like this at that time.
Reason:
• “At that time” refers to a specific past moment, so use simple past, not past perfect.
i. It was quite difficult. I had had no idea what to do.
It had been quite difficult. I had no idea what to do.
Reason:
• The difficulty existed before another past moment → use had been.
• “I had no idea” is a state, not something earlier, so simple past is correct here.
j. As far as I’d known, she had always had some pets.
As far as I knew, she had always had some pets.
Reason:
• “As far as I knew” expresses a general past fact, so simple past is correct.
• Her having pets from earlier stays in past perfect.
k. When I met Jim, he was already a soldier for three years.
When I met Jim, he had already been a soldier for three years.
Reason:
• His being a soldier happened before you met him.
• A duration before a past moment (“for three years”) uses past perfect or past perfect continuous.
l. He had gone to the coffee because somebody had told him.
(Also correcting “coffee” → “café”)
He went to the café because somebody had told him.
Reason:
• The main action (going) is simple past → went.
• The cause (somebody told him) happened earlier → had told.
C. Fill in the blanks with for, since, until, by or in (with reasons).
ReplyDeletea. The classes will be over by 5 PM.
Reason: By is used to show a deadline — the classes will finish no later than 5 PM.
b. Karma Sherpa reached the top of Mt. Everest in 8 hours.
Reason: In is used to show how long it took to complete something.
c. We had met after five years. So we kept on talking until three in the morning.
Reason: Until is used to show how long an action continued.
d. She has been living in America since she got married.
Reason: Since is used for the starting point of an action that continues till now.
e. He has been playing video game for ten hours.
Reason: For is used to express a period or duration of time.
f. She practices the Sitar every day for five hours.
Reason: Again, for shows duration — how long she practices.
g. He lived in Jumla until he passed high school examinations.
Reason: Until is used to show that an action continued up to a specific point in time.
h. There is no chance of dry weather even today. It has rained since last Saturday.
Reason: Since indicates the starting point of the continuous action of raining.
i. I can type 120 words in a minute.
Reason: In is used to express how much can be done within a period of time.
j. We take an early breakfast. It’s generally ready by six in the morning.
Reason: By expresses a deadline — breakfast is ready no later than 6.
Summary of Facing Death
ReplyDelete“Facing Death” by August Strindberg is a one-act play that presents the painful struggles of Monsieur Durand, a former railway employee who runs a small boarding house with his wife and three daughters. Despite his hard work, his business is failing, and the family is sinking deeper into poverty and debt. His daughters blame him for their miserable life, and the boarders often insult him, adding to his emotional suffering.
Durand feels responsible for saving his family from hardship. He realizes that his life-insurance policy is the only valuable asset left, but it will benefit the family only if he dies. As he faces humiliation, financial crisis, and the loss of love and respect from his own family, he decides to sacrifice his life so that the insurance money can support his wife and daughters.
He plans his death carefully so it will appear accidental, ensuring the insurance claim will be valid. In the end, Durand burns the bills, takes brandy to give himself courage, and deliberately walks into the cold, embracing death for his family’s future.
The play highlights themes of sacrifice, family misunderstanding, poverty, and emotional suffering, showing how a father’s love can drive him to tragic self-destruction when he feels there is no other way to protect his family.
Central Idea of Facing Death
ReplyDeleteThe central idea of Facing Death is the selfless sacrifice of a father who chooses to give up his own life to secure a better future for his family. Monsieur Durand, suffering from poverty, humiliation, and lack of appreciation, realizes that his death is the only way to free his wife and daughters from financial misery. His life-insurance policy becomes the last hope for the survival of the family.
The play shows how poverty destroys relationships, how misunderstanding and blame hurt a person emotionally, and how deep parental love can lead to tragic decisions. It emphasizes that sometimes people face unbearable situations where sacrifice feels like the only solution. The story ultimately highlights the unseen struggles of parents, who silently endure pain and make extreme choices for the well-being of their children.
Summary of Trifles
ReplyDeleteTrifles is a one-act play by Susan Glaspell that explores how women’s experiences are often ignored or undervalued by men. The play is based on the investigation of the murder of John Wright, who is found strangled in his farmhouse. The main suspects are his wife, Mrs. Wright (formerly Minnie Foster).
The County Attorney, Sheriff, and Mr. Hale come to the Wright house to search for evidence. Their wives, Mrs. Hale and Mrs. Peters, accompany them. While the men look for “serious clues,” they ridicule the women for paying attention to domestic items, which they call trifles.
However, it is in these “trifles” that the real truth is hidden. Mrs. Hale and Mrs. Peters find important clues: messy stitching on a quilt, broken preserves, and, most importantly, a dead canary with a twisted neck. They realize that Mrs. Wright lived a lonely, unhappy life with her cold and oppressive husband. The bird, which sang beautifully, symbolized the joy she once had before her husband killed it. In a moment of emotional outburst and revenge, she likely killed her husband the same way—by strangling him.
Understanding Mrs. Wright’s suffering, the women decide to hide the evidence (the dead bird) to protect her. Meanwhile, the men remain unaware of the motive because they dismiss domestic details as unimportant.
The play highlights gender inequality, emotional oppression, and how women understand each other’s pain in ways men fail to see. It shows that what men consider “trifles” can hold deep meaning and truth.
Summary of “Rice” by Jhumpa Lahiri
ReplyDelete“Rice” is a short autobiographical piece by Jhumpa Lahiri that explores the themes of family tradition, cultural identity, and emotional connection to food. The essay centers on the author’s father and his deep attachment to rice, which represents both his Bengali heritage and his memories of home.
Lahiri describes how rice is an essential part of her father’s daily life. No matter where he lives, whether in India or America, he cannot imagine a meal without rice. For him, rice is not just food—it is a symbol of comfort, culture, and continuity. Lahiri recalls childhood scenes where her father insisted on cooking rice in the traditional way, preserving the taste and texture he grew up with in India.
The essay also shows how food becomes a bridge between generations. Although Lahiri grows up in the United States and is influenced by Western culture, she still recognizes how rice connects her to her roots. Through her father’s habits, she understands how immigrants hold onto small but meaningful cultural practices to maintain their identity in a foreign land.
In the end, “Rice” is a tender reflection on how a simple food item carries personal history, emotion, and cultural memory, shaping the author’s understanding of her father and her own identity.
ReplyDeleteCorrect Answers with Rules
a. I don’t know where Muna is. Have you seen her?
Rule:
Use present perfect (have/has + past participle) to ask about a recent past action that has a connection to the present situation.
b. Janak wasn’t very well last week.
Rule:
Use past simple for a finished action/time in the past (last week, yesterday, etc.).
c. Last night I lost my keys. So I stayed in my friend’s home.
Rule:
Use past simple because the action happened at a specific time in the past ("last night").
d. I have lost my keys. Can you help me look for them?
Rule:
Use present perfect for an action that is recent and has a present result (I still don’t have my keys)
e. I have known Jamuna for three years. We still meet once a month.
Rule:
Use present perfect for an action that started in the past and continues to the present (for, since)
f. She lived in Sikkim when she was a child.
Rule:
Use past simple to talk about a finished past situation.
g. A: What’s wrong?
B: I have broken a glass.**
Rule:
Use present perfect to report a recent event with a present effect.
h. A: When did you arrive?
B: At 10 pm last night.**
Rule:
Use past simple with when to ask about the time of a completed past action.
i. How long have you known Sarmila for?
Rule:
Use present perfect for actions that began in the past and continue till now.
j. This is the first time I have driven a car.
Rule:
"The first time…" is always followed by present perfect.
ReplyDeleteExercise: Use the correct tense of the verbs in brackets.
1. I can’t find my bag. (you/see) it anywhere?
2. We (go) to Pokhara last Dashain.
3. He (live) in this town for more than ten years.
4. They (finish) their homework before the teacher came.
5. Listen! Someone (knock) at the door.
6. I (not/meet) your brother since last year.
7. My father (work) in a bank when he was young.
8. A: When (the bus/leave)?
B: At 3:30 sharp.
9. The children (play) football when it suddenly started to rain.
10. This is the best movie I (ever/see)
. Use been or gone.
ReplyDelete(Answers + Rules Explained)**
a. I’ve never been to Japan.
Rule: Been = visited a place and come back.
b. Kalpana has gone to Korea. She may come back next year.
Rule: Gone = someone has left and is still there.
c. A: Where’s Rachana?
B: She has gone to the shops.**
Rule: She is not here now; she is still at the shops → gone.
d. Harina was here earlier but I think she has gone now.
Rule: She left this place → gone.
e. Have you ever been to London?
Rule: Asking about someone’s life experience → been.
ReplyDeleteC. Put each or every in the following sentences.
a. The party split into three factions, ______ faction headed by a former prime minister.
b. Leap years occur ______ four years.
c. ______ parent worries about their children.
d. We had a great time in Singapore. We enjoyed ______ minute of our time.
e. I could catch the main idea of his speech but I didn’t understand ______ of his words.
f. In Nepal, ______ motorcycle rider should wear a helmet.
g. You must read ______ of these books for the exam.
D. Rewrite the following sentences using all of, most of, none of, both of, or some of.
a. Your garden is superb. ______ the flowers are beautiful.
b. Do you know Bharat and Kamal? Of course, I do. ______ them are my friends.
c. I bought a box of apples thinking it would be cheaper but I was mistaken. ______ them were rotten.
d. When I was in the town, I asked some people for direction but ______ them were able to help me. I had to call my friend.
e. We all were soaked in the rain because ______ us had carried an umbrella.
f. My father is healthy in his seventies but he feels isolated because ______ his friends are dead now.
g. All of the tourists are not Chinese. ______ them are Korean
E. Choose the best word from the brackets to complete the sentences.
a. Give me ______ money I owe you. (which/the/a/an)
b. I want ______ boat which would take me to the island. (the/an/those/a)
c. Could you pour me ______ water, please? (many/few/these/some)
d. Only ______ employees know how important the project was. (a few/a little/little/few)
e. He was looking for ______ umbrella. (an/a/those/these)
f. ______ water was evaporated due to excessive heat. (A large number of/ A lot of/ A large amount of/Many)
ReplyDeleteC. Each / Every
a. each
b. every
c. every
d. every
e. each
f. every
g. each
D. All of / Most of / None of / Both of / Some of
a. Most of
b. Both of
c. All of
d. None of
e. None of
f. All of
g. Some of
E. Articles / Determiners
a. the
b. the
c. some
d. a few
e. an
f. A large amount of
ReplyDeleteB. Rewrite the following sentences with the correct form of the verbs in the brackets.
a. The invitation is for one person. I don’t mind whether you or she ______ (come) to the party.
b. Neither the MPs nor the Prime Minister ______ (have) felt regret for the party split.
c. I don’t care whether he or she ______ (win) the lottery.
d. Either the Kantipur or the Republica ______ (be) used for the advertisement.
e. She speaks in a strange accent. Neither I nor my sister ______ (understand) her.
f. I forgot whether the singers or the actress ______ (be) given the Film Fair Award last year.
g. Neither the tracksuit nor the pajamas ______ (fit) me perfectly.
h. Neither the gas fire nor the electric heaters ______ (be) suitable for room heating.
ReplyDeletea. comes
b. has
c. wins
d. is
e. understands
f. was
g. fit
h. are
Format of an Email
ReplyDelete1. To:
(Receiver’s email address)
2. Cc: (optional)
(Other recipients)
3. Subject:
(A short and clear title of your email)
4. Salutation (Greeting):
• Dear Sir,
• Dear Madam,
• Dear Mr. Sharma,
• Dear friend Rohan,
5. Body of the Email:
Write in three parts:
a. Opening / Introduction
→ State your purpose briefly.
Example: I am writing this email to inform you about…
b. Main Message / Details
→ Explain the information, request, reason, or issue.
c. Closing / Conclusion
→ Politely end the message.
Example: I look forward to your response.
6. Complimentary Close:
• Sincerely,
• Yours faithfully,
• Best regards,
7. Signature / Name:
(Your full name)
Sample Email (Model)
To: principal@gmail.com
Subject: Request for Library Membership
Dear Sir,
I am writing this email to request a library membership in our college library. I am a student of Class 11, and I need access to reference books for my studies.
I kindly request you to grant me a library card at the earliest.
Yours faithfully,
Raju Karki
ReplyDeleteBenefits of Yoga
Yoga is an ancient practice that combines physical postures, breathing exercises, and meditation to create harmony between the body and the mind. Originating in India thousands of years ago, yoga has become popular all over the world due to its numerous physical, mental, and emotional benefits. In today’s busy and stressful life, yoga has become an essential practice for maintaining good health and inner peace.
One of the major benefits of yoga is its positive impact on physical health. Regular yoga practice improves flexibility, strengthens muscles, and enhances body posture. It increases blood circulation, improves digestion, and boosts the immune system. Many yoga postures help reduce body fat, control weight, and keep the heart healthy. People who practice yoga daily experience fewer physical illnesses because yoga helps in balancing the entire system of the body.
Yoga is equally beneficial for mental health. Through deep breathing and meditation, yoga reduces stress, tension, and anxiety. It calms the mind and improves concentration, memory, and emotional stability. In a world filled with distractions and pressure, yoga provides a peaceful escape and helps people manage their emotions better. Students, especially, can benefit from yoga as it improves focus and helps them perform better in studies.
In addition, yoga promotes emotional and spiritual well-being. It teaches us discipline, patience, and self-awareness. By connecting the body with the mind, yoga helps individuals understand themselves better and develop a positive attitude towards life. It also encourages healthy habits, mindfulness, and gratitude. This is why millions of people across the world practice yoga to lead a balanced and meaningful life.
Furthermore, yoga is a natural and cost-free method of maintaining health. Unlike medicines, yoga has no side effects. Anyone, regardless of age, can practice yoga daily. This makes yoga one of the simplest and most effective ways of staying physically fit and mentally strong.
In conclusion, yoga is a precious gift to humanity. It improves physical health, sharpens the mind, and strengthens emotional well-being. To live a healthy and peaceful life, everyone should practice yoga regularly. Incorporating yoga into our daily routine can help us enjoy a life.
ReplyDeleteThe Community Forest in Nepal
Community forests in Nepal are managed by local people to protect and use forest resources sustainably. The Community Forestry Programme allows villagers to take responsibility for conserving forests while improving their livelihoods. This approach benefits both the environment and rural communities.
Nepal is mainly an agricultural country, and over 70% of the population depends on farming. Forests provide firewood, fodder, timber, and water, which are essential for daily life. By forming Community Forest User Groups (CFUGs), local people protect forests from fire, illegal logging, and overuse. Many previously degraded forests have been restored, and wildlife habitats have improved.
Community forests also support rural economies. They supply raw materials, generate income, and create jobs. Local communities use the benefits to build schools, health posts, and roads. Women and marginalized groups also gain access to forest products and training opportunities.
Ecologically, community forests help prevent soil erosion, maintain rainfall patterns, store water, and purify the air. They protect biodiversity and reduce the effects of climate change.
In conclusion, community forests in Nepal are a successful model of environmental conservation and sustainable development. They protect the ecology and empower local communities for a greener future.
ReplyDeleteFormat of an Essay
1. Title / Heading
Write the topic as the title at the top.
Example: The Community Forest in Nepal
2. Introduction
Begin with a general statement about the topic.
Explain why the topic is important or relevant.
Example: Community forests in Nepal help protect the environment and support rural livelihoods.
3. Body / Main Part
Divide into 3–5 paragraphs, each covering a specific idea.
Paragraph 1: Explain the background or context.
Paragraph 2: Discuss causes, importance, or benefits.
Paragraph 3: Give examples, facts, or evidence.
Paragraph 4 (optional): Mention challenges or problems.
Use linking words like: moreover, in addition, however, therefore, as a result
4. Conclusion
Summarize the main points.
Give your opinion, suggestion, or future perspective.
Example: Community forests are vital for sustainable development, and everyone should participate in protecting them.
5. Optional Tips
Keep it 150–250 words for school exams.
Write in paragraphs; avoid one long paragraph.
Use simple and clear language.
Include examples, facts, or statistics when possible.
End with a strong concluding sentence.
Nepal has topsy-turvy political history. Many changes have been observed in different times. Write a short biography of any Nepali freedom fighter incorporating the changes brought under his/her leadership.
ReplyDeleteGanesh Man Singh
Ganesh Man Singh was born on November 9, 1915 and was commander of the popular 1990 Janaandolan. Singh was also one of the main leaders of the Nepali Congress movement of 1951, which overthrew the Rana regime. More than anything else, Ganesh Man was a rebel and a freedom fighter. He was a popular hero and his exploits are legendary. He was a man of small proportions but charismatic, fearless, and physically very strong. He was never afraid of taking risks in his political career. He was a straightforward and frank leader in dealing with all.
Ganesh Man was a rare breed amongst Nepali politicians—a man of integrity. He demonstrated his greatness through his leadership, rising above petty personal interests. Recognising his outstanding contribution to the field of democracy and human rights, Ganesh Man was honored by the United Nations with the ‘Human Rights Award’ in 1993. He was the first statesman from South Asia to receive this prestigious award. He also received the ‘United States Peace Run Prize’ in 1990 for his contribution to peace in Nepal and the world. He was also decorated with the ‘U Thant Peace Award’. He has become immortalised as a great leader that the nation and its citizens, without any political barriers, feel proud of. No other national leader has been able to fill the political vacuum after his death.
ReplyDeleteFacing Death
Understanding the Text
Answer the following questions.
a. Where does the play take place?
The play is set in Monsieur Durand’s dining room, where he lives with his three daughters. He is a widower, a former railway worker, and the owner of a small boarding house.
b. Why do the grocery, baker, and butcher send their bills to the Durand household?
They send their bills because Monsieur Durand has not paid them for a long time. Since the dues remain unpaid, they stop supplying goods to the family.
c. Why does Monsieur Durand spend money on candles when he cannot afford bread?
He buys candles to light them on the death anniversary of his son, René, who died in childhood. His deep grief for his lost son makes him spend money on candles despite extreme poverty.
d. Why did Monsieur Durand sell his life insurance?
He sold his life insurance to repay a loan. He was in a desperate financial situation, and the creditor was pressuring him for payment.
e. Why has Monsieur Durand paid fire insurance?
He pays fire insurance so that his daughters can receive compensation. His plan is to burn down the house, die in the fire, and leave the insurance money to his daughters.
f. How did Monsieur Durand and Mrs. Durand lose their inheritances from both sides?
They lost all their inherited property due to Mrs. Durand’s foolish financial decisions and careless investments, which wasted both paternal and maternal assets.
g. Why does Monsieur Durand lie about his birthplace?
He lies about his birthplace to hide his past. In his youth, he ran away to Switzerland for love and even fought against his homeland. To avoid shame and protect his and his late wife’s reputation, he hides the truth.
h. What business is Monsieur Durand running to earn a living?
He runs a small lodging house and restaurant. He has turned his home into a modest hotel-like place where visitors can stay and dine.
i. What plan does Monsieur Durand make to help his daughters with money?
He plans to burn down the house and end his life so that his daughters can claim the fire-insurance compensation. He believes sacrificing himself is the only way to secure their future.
j. How does Monsieur Durand die?
He commits suicide by drinking poison and then setting the house on fire. He sacrifices himself so that his daughters can receive the insurance money.
ReplyDeleteFacing Death – Summary, Theme & Characters
SUMMARY
Facing Death is a one-act play written by August Strindberg. It presents the painful story of Monsieur Durand, a poor widower who lives with his three daughters in a boarding house he owns. Once financially stable, Durand lost all his inherited property because of his wife’s careless spending and wrong investments. Now, the family is drowning in debt, and Durand is unable to pay even basic bills for groceries, bread, and meat.
Even in this misery, Durand buys candles every year to honor the death anniversary of his beloved son René, who died in childhood. The loss has emotionally broken him.
Durand knows that he cannot support his daughters anymore. He fears that after his death, his creditors might take everything, leaving his daughters helpless. So, he makes a shocking plan:
He pays fire insurance, burns down his house, and kills himself so that the insurance money will help his daughters survive.
He drinks poison and sets the house on fire. At the end of the play, he dies—sacrificing his life for his daughters’ future. His death is a tragic act of love, responsibility, and helplessness.
THEME
1. Parental Sacrifice
The main theme of the play is the extreme sacrifice a parent can make for the well-being of his children. Durand gives up his life so his daughters can live.
2. Poverty and Helplessness
The play shows how financial struggles can destroy a family. Durand’s poverty forces him to make painful decisions.
3. Love and Responsibility
Durand carries a deep sense of responsibility toward his daughters. His love pushes him toward tragic self-destruction.
4. Social Pressure and Shame
Durand lies about his past and birthplace because he fears society’s judgment. His whole life is shaped by guilt and embarrassment.
5. Death as an Escape
Durand sees death not as an end but as a solution to free his daughters from hardships.
CHARACTER SKETCH
Monsieur Durand
A widower, father of three daughters, and owner of a small boarding house.
Once wealthy, but lost everything due to his late wife's poor financial choices.
Very emotional and deeply affected by the death of his young son René.
Honest and hardworking, yet helpless and burdened by debt.
Loves his daughters immensely and is ready to sacrifice his own life for their future.
Commits suicide and burns the house to leave insurance money for his daughters.
He represents love, sacrifice, responsibility, and the tragedy of poverty.
The Daughters (Therese, Annette & Adele)
They love their father but fail to fully understand his suffering.
They are worried about their financial struggles and tensions at home.
They unknowingly contribute to Durand’s emotional pain.
They represent innocence, expectations, and dependence
ReplyDeleteCentral Theme of Trifles
By Susan Glaspell
The central theme of Trifles is gender inequality and the way women’s experiences, emotions, and intelligence are often dismissed as unimportant—treated as “trifles.” The play shows how men underestimate women and fail to understand their inner world, while women notice and interpret the very details the men ignore.
Key Ideas in the Central Theme
1. Male Domination and Female Suppression
The men in the play (the sheriff, county attorney, and Mr. Hale) represent a society where men hold power and consider themselves superior. They mock women for worrying about small domestic matters. This reflects the patriarchal mindset of that time.
2. Women’s Insight vs. Men’s Blindness
Although the men look for big, logical clues to solve the murder, they overlook crucial evidence found in the kitchen.
The women—Mrs. Hale and Mrs. Peters—notice:
the broken birdcage,
the dead canary,
the uneven stitching on the quilt.
These “trifles” reveal Mrs. Wright’s emotional suffering and explain her motive. The theme shows that women understand other women’s silent struggles better.
3. Emotional and Psychological Abuse
The dead bird symbolizes Mrs. Wright’s lost freedom and happiness. Her husband’s cruelty destroyed her spirit. The play highlights that emotional abuse can be as painful as physical abuse.
4. Sisterhood and Female Solidarity
Mrs. Hale and Mrs. Peters connect with Mrs. Wright’s pain and decide to protect her by hiding the evidence. Their silent understanding shows the bond formed through shared suffering in a male-dominated society.
5. Justice vs. Legal System
The men seek legal justice, but the women understand the deeper truth behind the crime. The play suggests that the legal system, run by men, often fails to see the real causes behind women’s actions.
In One Line (For Exams):
The central theme of Trifles is the oppression of women in a male-dominated society, where men ignore women’s experiences as insignificant, yet those very “trifles” reveal the truth and expose the injustice faced by women.
ReplyDeleteCharacter Sketches – Trifles
1. Mrs. Wright (Minnie Foster)
The central but unseen character
Mrs. Wright is the wife of John Wright and the suspected murderer, though she never appears on stage.
Before marriage, she was Minnie Foster—cheerful, lively, and a good singer in the choir.
After marriage, her husband’s emotional cruelty, loneliness, and oppressive environment destroyed her happiness.
Her pet canary, which symbolized her lost joy, was killed by her husband. This pushed her to murder him in revenge and desperation.
Her character represents women’s suffering in silence, and how emotional abuse can break a person completely.
She is the symbol of all oppressed women who live under male dominance.
In short: Mrs. Wright is a tragic, oppressed woman whose painful married life leads her to commit an extreme act.
2. Mrs. Hale
A voice of understanding and empathy
Mrs. Hale is the neighbor of Mrs. Wright and the most active female character in the play.
She is intelligent, observant, and deeply sympathetic toward Mrs. Wright.
She regrets not visiting her more often, feeling guilty for not supporting her in her loneliness.
She notices the important “trifles” (the quilt, dead bird, broken cage) that reveal Mrs. Wright’s emotional suffering.
She strongly criticizes the men’s attitude and defends women’s abilities.
Mrs. Hale represents female solidarity, insight, and moral courage.
In short: Mrs. Hale understands Mrs. Wright’s misery and courageously protects her by hiding the evidence.
3. Mrs. Peters
The sheriff’s wife who undergoes a transformation
At first, Mrs. Peters tries to follow the law and her husband’s authority.
She is quiet, polite, and believes in duty.
But as she learns more about Mrs. Wright’s suffering, she remembers her own past pains (the death of her kitten, the loss of her child).
These memories help her emotionally connect with Mrs. Wright.
Finally, she decides to hide the evidence with Mrs. Hale, showing moral justice over legal justice.
She represents the inner strength and awakening of women in the face of injustice.
In short: Mrs. Peters starts as submissive but becomes supportive and compassionate, choosing empathy over the law.
4. Mr. Wright (John Wright)
The unseen cause of the tragedy
He is stern, cold, and emotionally abusive.
Though he is not physically violent, he controls and suppresses his wife.
He kills Mrs. Wright’s pet bird, symbolizing how he destroyed her happiness and freedom.
His harsh behavior ultimately leads to his own murder.
He represents patriarchal authority and the silent cruelty of domestic life.
In short: Mr. Wright is a strict, oppressive husband whose emotional cruelty pushes his wife to a breaking point.
5. Sheriff Peters
Representative of law and male authority
The county sheriff and husband of Mrs. Peters.
He is confident, somewhat arrogant, and dismissive of women.
He overlooks important clues because he thinks kitchen matters and domestic problems are insignificant.
His attitude reflects the patriarchal society that ignores women’s experiences.
In short: Sheriff Peters symbolizes male dominance, legal authority, and lack of understanding of women’s lives.
6. County Attorney (Mr. Henderson)
The most dismissive male character
He leads the investigation and repeatedly mocks women’s concerns.
He focuses only on legal facts, failing to notice the emotional clues.
His sexist comments reveal society’s belief that women worry about unimportant “trifles.”
He unknowingly overlooks the real motive behind the crime.
In short: Mr. Henderson represents the biased, superior attitude of men who underestimate women’s intelligence.
ReplyDeleteCharacter Sketch of the Old Man with Enormous Wings
The old man with enormous wings is a mysterious, supernatural figure whose arrival brings wonder, fear, and curiosity to the people. Physically, he appears weak, fragile, and dirty, with huge, mud-covered wings that make him look more like a fallen bird than a heavenly angel. His appearance is far from what people expect an angel to be.
Despite being misunderstood and mistreated, he shows remarkable patience, endurance, and humility. The villagers lock him in a chicken coop, throw stones at him, poke him with sticks, and treat him like a circus attraction. However, the old man never complains, never harms anyone, and silently tolerates every cruelty. His quiet behavior suggests a deep, mysterious strength and wisdom.
The old man is also portrayed as enigmatic and otherworldly. He speaks in an unknown language and performs strange miracles that are either imperfect or unexpected. This increases the confusion about his true identity. Some believe he is an angel; others see him as a harmless old beggar.
In the end, when his feathers slowly grow back, the old man gathers strength and flies away with dignity, leaving behind a sense of wonder and doubt. His departure proves that he was not an ordinary human being.
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In short, the old man is:
Mysterious and supernatural
Physically weak but spiritually strong
Patient, gentle, and tolerant
Misunderstood and mistreated
A symbol of faith, cruelty, and human ignorance
Characters in “A Very Old Man with Enormous Wings”
ReplyDelete1. The Old Man (The Angel)
• A mysterious old man who appears in Pelayo’s courtyard.
• He has large, dirty wings and looks weak and sick.
• He rarely speaks, shows patience, and endures mistreatment silently.
• Represents mystery, faith, and human cruelty.
2. Pelayo
• A simple villager who first discovers the old man.
• At first frightened, but later keeps the old man locked like an animal.
• Uses him as a source of income.
• Shows how ordinary people can be selfish or confused in strange situations.
3. Elisenda
• Pelayo’s wife.
• More practical and materialistic than Pelayo.
• Sees the old man as a burden and wants to get rid of him.
• Later becomes wealthy by charging people to see him.
• Represents human greed and pragmatism.
4. Father Gonzaga
• The village priest.
• Suspicious about the old man’s identity.
• Tries to judge him using religious rules and procedures.
• Sends letters to the church but gets no clear answer.
• Symbolizes organized religion’s limitations.
5. The Spider Woman
• A carnival attraction who appears later.
• She was once a girl who disobeyed her parents and transformed into a spider.
• Villagers prefer her story because it is simple and easy to understand.
• Represents how people prefer simple explanations over true miracles.
6. The Neighbor Woman
• A superstitious woman from the village.
• Claims that the old man is an angel coming to take the sick child.
• Influences Pelayo and Elisenda with her beliefs.
• Represents folk beliefs and superstition.
Summary of “Trifles”
ReplyDelete“Trifles” is a one-act play that explores how small, overlooked details (“trifles”) can reveal the truth about a crime. The play takes place in the farmhouse of John and Minnie Wright, where John has been found strangled in his bed. His wife, Minnie Wright, is the main suspect.
The County Attorney, the Sheriff, and Mr. Hale come to investigate the murder. Along with them are Mrs. Hale and Mrs. Peters, who accompany their husbands. The men search for evidence but ignore the messy kitchen and household items, calling them “trifles” that are unimportant.
While the men look for big clues, the women notice small things that reveal Minnie’s unhappy life:
• her unfinished quilt,
• broken preserve jars,
• messy stitching,
• and most importantly, the dead canary with a twisted neck.
The discovery of the dead bird makes the women realize that Minnie lived a lonely, isolated life with an oppressive husband. The canary was her only source of joy, and when John Wright killed it, Minnie broke emotionally, leading her to kill him.
Understanding Minnie’s suffering, Mrs. Hale and Mrs. Peters hide the bird, which is the key evidence, to protect Minnie from the law. They feel that justice for Minnie lies not in legal punishment but in recognizing her emotional abuse.
The men, unaware of the significance of the “trifles,” fail to solve the case, while the women uncover the entire truth.
In short:
“Trifles” shows how men overlook women’s world and how empathy and attention to small details help reveal the truth behind a crime.
Exercise: Fill in the blanks with the correct modal (must, can’t, may, might).
ReplyDelete• The lights are on in his room. He ______ be at home.
• She didn’t answer the phone. She ______ be sleeping.
• He is only five years old. He ______ be driving a car.
• I’m not sure where Rita is. She ______ be in the library.
• The door is locked from inside. Someone ______ be inside.
• He studied very hard. He ______ have passed the exam.
• I saw him ten minutes ago. He ______ have reached home yet.
• The sky is cloudy. It ______ rain this evening.
• She looks very upset. Something ______ have gone wrong.
• That story sounds unbelievable. It ______ be true.
• The bus is late today. There ______ have been an accident.