ASSIGNMENT
BEGS-183
Writing and Study Skills
Programme: BAG/2022/2023
Course Code: BEGS 183
Max. Marks: 100
Answer all questions in this assignment.
SECTION A
I. Write short notes on the following: 5×5=25
1. How are new words formed through affixation and compounding?
Give examples of both.
Answer 1:
Certainly! In English, new words can be formed through affixation and compounding. Affixation
involves adding prefixes or suffixes to a base word to create a new word. For example, the
prefix “im-” can be added to the base word “mortal” to create the new word “immortal.” Similarly,
the suffix “-ize” can be added to “immortal” to create “immortalize.” Another example is the
prefix “dis-” added to “agree” to form “disagree,” and the suffix “-ment” added to “disagree” to
form “disagreement.”
Compounding involves combining two or more words together to create a new word. For
example, the words “tooth” and “brush” can be combined to form the compound word
“toothbrush.” Another example is combining the words “book” and “shelf” to form the compound
word “bookshelf.”
Both affixation and compounding are common ways that English speakers create new words in
order to express new ideas or concepts.
2. Describe the various steps involved in the process approach to writing.
Answer 2:
The process approach to writing involves several steps that writers follow to produce a
well-written piece of work. These steps include:
1. Planning: This step involves creating an outline or a plan for the writing piece. The plan
should be dynamic and flexible, allowing for changes as needed.
2. Drafting: In this step, the writer begins to write the first draft of the piece, focusing on getting
their ideas down on paper.
3. Revising: After completing the first draft, the writer revises it by making changes to improve
clarity, coherence, and organization.
4. Editing: In this step, the writer checks for errors in grammar, punctuation, spelling, and other
mechanics of writing.
5. Proofreading: The final step involves carefully reviewing the document for any remaining
errors before submitting it.
By following these steps in a recursive manner (i.e., returning again and again to ideas that
need clarification or extension), writers can produce high-quality written work that effectively
communicates their ideas to their intended audience.
3. Explain with suitable examples, how diagrams can be used to organize notes.
PDF3 Ans
Certainly! Diagrams are a great way to organize notes, especially when dealing with scientific or
technical material. Here are some examples of how diagrams can be used to organize notes:
1. Flow Charts: A flow chart is a type of diagram that shows the steps in a process or system. It
is useful for breaking down complex information into smaller, more manageable parts. For
example, if you were studying the process of photosynthesis, you could create a flow chart that
shows the different stages involved in the process.
2. Tree Diagrams: A tree diagram is a type of diagram that shows the relationships between
different parts of a system or concept. It is useful for organizing information hierarchically. For
example, if you were studying the classification of living organisms, you could create a tree
diagram that shows how different species are related to each other.
3. Venn Diagrams: A Venn diagram is a type of diagram that shows the relationships between
different sets of data. It is useful for comparing and contrasting information. For example, if you
were studying the similarities and differences between two different types of cells, you could
create a Venn diagram that shows which characteristics they share and which ones are unique
to each type.
Overall, diagrams can be an effective way to organize notes because they allow you to visualize
complex information in a clear and concise manner. By using diagrams in your note-taking
process, you can improve your understanding of the material and make it easier to remember
key concepts later on.
4. What aspects should be considered while writing a process analysis?
Answer:
When writing a process analysis, there are several aspects that should be considered to ensure
that the instructions are clear and easy to follow. These include:
1. Audience: Consider who the intended audience is and what their level of knowledge or
experience is with the process being described.
2. Purpose: Determine the purpose of the process analysis, whether it is to inform, persuade, or
entertain.
3. Clarity: Use clear and concise language that is easy to understand. Avoid using technical
jargon or complex terminology that may confuse readers.
4. Organization: Organize the steps in a logical order that follows the natural time sequence of
the process being described.
5. Detail: Provide enough detail so that readers can follow each step accurately without making
assumptions or guessing.
6. Illustrations: Use illustrations such as diagrams, pictures, or videos to supplement written
instructions and make them easier to understand.
By considering these aspects while writing a process analysis, writers can create effective
instructions that are easy for readers to follow and understand.
5. How can cohesive devices be used to bring about coherence in a paragraph?
Give suitable examples.
Answer:
Cohesive devices are words or phrases that help to connect ideas and create coherence in a
paragraph. They can be used to show the logical relationship between sentences and
paragraphs, making it easier for readers to follow the writer’s train of thought. Here are some
examples of how cohesive devices can be used:
1. To express result: therefore, as a result, consequently, thus, hence Example: The company
experienced a decline in sales last quarter. Consequently, they had to lay off several employees.
2. To give examples: for example, for instance, specifically, as an illustration Example: There are
many benefits to regular exercise. For example, it can improve cardiovascular health and
reduce stress levels.
3. To express comparison: similarly, likewise Example: John enjoys playing basketball. Similarly,
his brother is also a fan of the sport.
4. To express contrast: however, nevertheless, on the other hand Example: The weather was
hot and humid. However, we still decided to go for a walk in the park.
5. To express addition: moreover, furthermore, also, besides, in addition Example: The new
restaurant not only has great food but also offers excellent service.
6. To indicate time: now, later, meanwhile, since then after that before that time Example: We
went shopping first and then went to see a movie afterwards.
7. To express sequence: first, secondly/thirdly/fourthly etc., next finally Example: First of all we
need to gather all the necessary materials before starting the project.
By using cohesive devices effectively in writing paragraphs and essays writers can create clear
and coherent pieces of writing that are easy for readers to follow and understand.
SECTION B
II. Answer the following in around 150 words each: 10×4 = 40
1. What strategies would you adopt to become a critical reader?
Answer
To become a critical reader, you must adopt various strategies that will help you read and
understand a text on its own terms while also questioning the ideas and language used in it.
Firstly, it is essential to read patiently and carefully, paying attention to details and nuances in
the text. Secondly, you must be mindful of inferring, interpreting, analyzing, and evaluating the
ideas presented in the text. This involves asking questions about the author’s purpose,
audience, tone, and bias. Thirdly, it is crucial to adopt different strategies for reading different
types of texts. For example, reading a scientific article requires a different approach than
reading a novel or a news article.
Other strategies include taking notes while reading to help you remember important points and
making connections between different parts of the text. Additionally, it is helpful to read actively
by highlighting or underlining key phrases or sentences that stand out to you. Finally, discussing
your thoughts with others can help you gain new perspectives on the text and deepen your
understanding of its meaning. By adopting these strategies consistently over time, you can
become a more critical reader who can analyze texts effectively and draw informed conclusions
from them.
2. What are the probable hard-spots in English Grammar, for those who learn English as
a second language?
Answer
For those who learn English as a second language, there are several probable hard-spots in
English grammar. These include conditional clauses, passive constructions, phrasal verbs, verb
forms, and prepositions. Conditional clauses can be challenging because they require an
understanding of complex sentence structures and the use of different tenses. Passive
constructions can also be difficult because they involve changing the subject and object of a
sentence.
Phrasal verbs are another area that can be challenging for ESL learners because they often
have multiple meanings and can be used in different contexts. Verb forms such as gerunds,
infinitives, and participles can also be confusing because they have different functions in a
sentence. Finally, prepositions can be tricky because they often have multiple meanings and
can change the meaning of a sentence depending on their usage.
To overcome these challenges, ESL learners should focus on practicing these areas
consistently over time. They should also seek out resources such as grammar books or online
tutorials to help them understand the rules and usage of these grammar points. Additionally,
working with a tutor or language partner who is fluent in English can provide valuable feedback
and support to help learners improve their skills in these areas.
3. How is persuasive writing different from argumentative writing? Illustrate your answer
with examples of both.
PDF2 Ans
Persuasive writing and argumentative writing are two different types of writing that have similar
goals but differ in their approach. Persuasive writing aims to convince the reader to take a
particular action or adopt a specific point of view. It uses emotional language, moral appeals,
and logical reasoning to persuade the reader. For example, an advertisement that encourages
people to buy a product is an example of persuasive writing.
On the other hand, argumentative writing aims to present a well-reasoned argument with
evidence and facts to support a particular point of view. It involves presenting both sides of an
issue and then arguing for one side while refuting the other side’s arguments. For example, an
essay that argues for or against a particular political policy is an example of argumentative
writing.
The main difference between persuasive and argumentative writing is that persuasive writing
focuses on convincing the reader to take action or adopt a particular point of view, while
argumentative writing focuses on presenting a well-reasoned argument with evidence and facts.
Both types of writing require strong rhetorical skills and critical thinking abilities, but they differ in
their approach and purpose.
4. Briefly describe the three major types of study skills and show how they help us to
become better learners.
PDF3 Ans
(I think it’s a wrong answer as there is no such keywords on pdf)
There are three major types of study skills: cognitive, metacognitive, and affective. Each type of
study skill plays an important role in helping us become better learners.
Cognitive study skills are those that directly relate to the process of learning. These skills
include things like note-taking, summarizing, and memorization techniques. By mastering these
skills, we can improve our ability to absorb and retain information.
Metacognitive study skills are those that help us to monitor and regulate our own learning.
These skills include things like setting goals, self-testing, and time management. By developing
these skills, we can become more effective at planning our studies and identifying areas where
we need to improve.
Affective study skills are those that relate to our attitudes and emotions towards learning. These
skills include things like motivation, concentration, and stress management. By developing
these skills, we can become more engaged in the learning process and better able to handle the
challenges that come with it.
Overall, by mastering all three types of study skills, we can become better learners by improving
our ability to learn new information efficiently and effectively while also managing our own
learning process in a way that is both productive and enjoyable.
SECTION C
III. 1. Write a paragraph of about 150 words on the topic given below.
Underline the topic sentence after writing the paragraph.
“Protecting our cultural heritage: aspects to be considered.”
PDF3 Ans
Protecting our cultural heritage is of utmost importance as it represents the identity and history
of a nation. There are several aspects that need to be considered when it comes to preserving
our cultural heritage. Firstly, it is important to ensure that the artifacts and monuments are
protected from natural disasters such as earthquakes, floods, and storms. Secondly, proper
maintenance and restoration of these artifacts should be carried out regularly to prevent them
from deteriorating over time. Thirdly, it is important to educate people about the significance of
cultural heritage so that they can appreciate and value it. This can be done through various
means such as museums, exhibitions, and educational programs. Finally, laws should be put in
place to protect cultural heritage sites from vandalism and theft. By taking these aspects into
consideration, we can ensure that our cultural heritage is preserved for future generations to
appreciate and learn from.
Topic sentence: Protecting our cultural heritage is of utmost importance as it represents the
identity and history of a nation.
2. Write a well – developed composition on the topic given below:
“Importance of providing skills training to students in Indian higher
education .”
Your composition should have a clear introduction, body and
conclusion.
PDF3 Ans
Introduction:
In today’s fast-paced world, it is essential for students to have the necessary skills to succeed
in their chosen careers. This is especially true in India, where the job market is highly
competitive and constantly evolving. Providing skills training to students in Indian higher
education is crucial for their future success and the growth of the country’s economy.
Body:
Skills training can take many forms, including internships, apprenticeships, and vocational
courses. These programs provide students with hands-on experience and practical knowledge
that they can apply in their future careers. For example, a student studying engineering can
benefit greatly from an internship at a manufacturing company, where they can learn about
production processes and gain valuable experience working with machinery.
Skills training also helps bridge the gap between academia and industry. By providing students
with real-world experience, they are better equipped to understand the needs of employers and
contribute to the growth of their respective industries. This not only benefits individual students
but also contributes to the overall economic development of the country.
Moreover, skills training can help address issues such as unemployment and underemployment
by providing students with marketable skills that are in demand by employers. This can lead to
better job prospects for graduates and a more skilled workforce for India.
Conclusion: In conclusion, providing skills training to students in Indian higher education is essential for their
future success and the growth of the country’s economy. By bridging the gap between academia
and industry, addressing issues such as unemployment and underemployment, and equipping
students with practical knowledge and experience, we can create a more skilled workforce that
will contribute to India’s continued growth and development. It is imperative that policymakers
prioritize skills training programs in higher education to ensure that our students are prepared
for success in today’s competitive job market