Haritha

WBBSE Chapter 20 Contractions

নীচের passage-টি জোরে পড়ো। শিক্ষকমহাশয় মোটা অক্ষরের word-গুলির উচ্চারণ কীরূপে করতে হয় বলেদেবেন।

Captain Das came to our school to speak to the children about safety.

“Many of you come to school on foot. Don’t try to cross the roads when buses and cars are running fast. It’s better to wait for sometime till there’s no traffic. Then you’ll be safe.”

“Captain”, said Paul raising his hand, “we’ve already made some rules about safety.”

Read And Learn More WBBSE Class 8 English Functional Grammar

“That’s fine Paul”, said Captain Das. ‘I’m glad to know that. I’ll be pleased to hear you tell me more about it.”

“You should watch your right side first before crossing the road. You shouldn’t cross it running through traffic”, said Milan.

“Can’t the girls give me one of the rules, too ?” asked Captain Das
.
“If there’s no footpath, walk always on the right side of the street,” said Minati.

“You’re not supposed to cross the road carelessly,” Lata added.

উপরের passage-এ মোটা অক্ষরগুলি লক্ষ্য করো। প্রকৃতপক্ষে তাদের প্রত্যেকটি word-দুইটি word-এর সংমিশ্রণে গঠন করা হয়েছে। ইংরাজিতে যখন আমরা কথা বলি তখন আমরা মাঝে মাঝে দুইটি word-কে একত্রে গঠন করে নিই। দুইটি word-কে একত্রে গঠন করাকে contraction বলা হয়।

WBBSE Chapter 23 Prefixes And Suffixes

অনেক সময় কোনো word- এর পূর্বে বা পরে কোনো letter বা letters বসিয়ে একটি নূতন word গঠন করা যায়।

নীচের word গুলি লক্ষ্য করো :

use

• abuse
• reuse
• misuse

take

• overtake
• undertake

উপরে use word-টির পূর্বে ab, re, mis- এবং take word-টির পূর্বে over- ও under letter-গুলি বসিয়ে নূতন word গঠিত হয়েছে।

Read And Learn More WBBSE Class 8 English Functional Grammar

Prefixes

এইরূপ যে letter-গুলি কোনো word-এর পূর্বে বসে নূতন word গঠন করে তাদেরকে Prefixes বলে। উপরের ab, re, mis, over, under letter-গুলি Prefixes.

নীচে আরও কিছু Prefix-এর উদাহরণ দেওয়া হল।

নীচের sentence গুলি দেখো :

The temperature is (normal/abnormal) now.

What he did is (legal/illegal).

I (trust mistrust) the boy.

I know that he is (honest/dishonest).

It is (possible/impossible) to reach there in time.

He is (successful/unsuccessful) in life.

লক্ষ্য করো, prefix যোগ করায় উপরের italicised word-গুলির অর্থ বিপরীতার্থক হয়েছে।

Suffixes

অনেক সময় কোনো word-এর শেষে letter বা letters বসিয়ে নূতন word গঠন করা হয়। এই শব্দাংশগুলিকে Suffixes বলে।

নীচে কিছু Suffix-এর উদাহরণ দেওয়া হল :

1. Put the following prefixes appropriately before the words given to make their opposites.

(Prefixes un-, mis-, im-, dis-, non-, ir-, in-)

like, judge, vegetarian, employed, popular, advantage, grateful, agree, clean; qualify, possible, stop, curable, regular, appear, mortal, educated, place, patient, violent, active, responsible:

2. Put the following suffixes appropriately after the words given below to make new words.

(Suffixes -er, -ment, -ness, -ive, -ous, -full, -ly, -able, -en, -ise, -less, -tion) dark, friend; teach, final, employ, hope, fame, short, destruct, use, miser, repute.

Paragraph Writing

অল্প কয়েকটি sentence-এ কোনো বিষয়বস্তু সম্বন্ধে কিছু লেখাকে অনুচ্ছেদ রচনা (paragraph writing) বলে।

যে-কোনো একটি রচনা বা প্রবন্ধ বা গল্প লক্ষ্য করলে তোমরা দেখবে সেটা বিভিন্ন paragraph-এ লেখা হয়েছে এবং এক-একটি paragraph-এ সমগ্র বক্তব্য বিষয়ের এক-একটি অংশ বা point বা topic বিশদভাবে আলোচনা করা হয়েছে। Paragraph রচনায় এটাই বৈশিষ্ট্য।

Read And Learn Also WBBSE Solutions For Class 8 English

A paragraph is a group of sentences all relating to the same topic or subject.

Paragraph লিখবার নির্দিষ্ট নিয়ম আছে :

(১) প্রতি paragraph -এর প্রথম word টি margin হতে কিছুটা ডান দিকে সরিয়ে লেখা হয়।

(২) এক-একটি paragraph-এ এক একটি ভিন্ন ভিন্ন point (topic) বা ভাব নিয়ে আলোচনা হয়ে থাকে। (৩) সাধারণত একটি paragraph-এর প্রথম sentence-এ এই আলোচ্য point-এর উল্লেখ থাকে। একে key sentence বলা হয়। পরের sentence গুলির ভিতর দিয়ে এর বিশদভাবে আলোচনা করা হয়।

(৪) Sentence-গুলি এলোমেলো ভাবে লিখলে চলে না। পরপর সুসঙ্গতভাবে লিখতে হয়। তা ছাড়া একটি কথা দুবার বলা যায় না।

(৫) শেষের sentence-টি এমন হবে যেন পড়লেই বুঝা যায় যে আলোচনা এখানেই শেষ হল।

কোনো বিষয়বস্তুর উপর একটি paragraph লিখবার পূর্বে উদ্দেশ্যটি (purpose) ঠিক করে নিতে হয়। নিজেকে প্রশ্ন করে নিতে হয়—আমি সঠিক কী লিখতে চাই ? Class-এ যদি My Family-র উপর লিখতে বলা হয়, ভিন্ন ভিন্ন point নিয়ে ভিন্ন ভিন্ন paragraph লিখতে পারা যায়। যেমন,

1. Family member দের পরিচয় করে দিতে একটি paragraph লিখতে পারা যায়।
2. ্রতিটি family member-এর nature (স্বভাব) সম্বন্ধেও একটি paragraph অথবা এক-একটি paragraph লিখতে পারা যায়।

এইরূপ আরও অনেক অনেক points ভিত্তি করে অনুচ্ছেদ লিখতে পারা যায়। আবার একটি নির্দিষ্ট point-ও বিভিন্নভাবে লিখতে পারা যায়। নীচের উদাহরণ দুইটি লক্ষ্য করো। দুইটি paragraph-এ এই family member-দের পরিচয় দেওয়া হয়েছে, কিন্তু প্রতিটি sentence-ই একটু অন্যভাবে লেখা হয়েছে। Sentence-গুলিও একটু অন্যভাবে সাজানো হয়েছে।

My Family

1. AI am Saroj Ghose. Let me introduce you to the members of my family. My father is Sri Dilip Ghose. He works in a factory. My mother’s name is Smt. Ila Ghose. She does not go out to work. She does all the work in the house for us because we do not have any servant. My elder brother, Swapan, is in class 8 and my little sister is Manju. She is only three years old and does not go to school. I must not forget to tell you that we have a pet dog. We call him Jimmy. He is also an important member of our family.
2. We are five in the family. I am the second child and my name is Saroj Ghose. The other members are my parents, my elder brother Swapan, and my little sister Manju. My brother is in class 8 and my sister is too young to go to school.
3. My father’s name is Sri Dilip Ghose. He is employed in a factory. My mother’s first name is Ila. We have no servants, so she does all the household work. There is our pet dog Jimmy. We love him and so we consider him a member of our family.

নীচে, করগুলি paragraph-এর উদাহরণ দেওয়া হল। প্রতিটি paragraph-এর main point বা key sentence বার করো। প্রথম paragraph-এর main point বা key sentence হল প্রথম sentence । প্রতিটি paragraph একটু অন্য ভাবে লেখার চেষ্টা করো, যেমন My family লেখা হয়েছে।

Your Friend

• I have a friend named Pinku. He is the best boy in our class. Although he is intelligent and the best boy. he is not at all proud. Besides, he is very kind-hearted. If anyone falls ill, Pinku is the first to pay him visit.
• If anybody is sad, he is sad too. In fact, he comes forward to help anybody any time. Pinku is also a very good sportsman. He plays football and cricket in our school team and he has bagged many prizes. His manner and behavior attract everybody. Indeed, there is none who does not like Pinku. Pinku is my best friend and I like him very much.

Your Hobby

Gardening is my hobby. It simply fascinates me. Every season I have to prepare the soil with water and manure. Constant watch is to be kept against worms. A variety of season flowers are always on bloom there.

During winter there are flowers like Marigold, Rose, Daliah, Chrysanthemum, etc. In summer, the garden looks colorful with sunflowers, Zinnia, Karabi, Tagar, Jui, etc. Some of these are sweet-smelling.

While I look at this scenic beauty, I forget myself in sheer delight. There is a kitchen garden behind our house. I grow vegetables there. It not only saves money but also gives me fresh things. No doubt, gardening is laborious but the results of this hard toilare indeed very pleasant. It is for this reason that I like gardening very much.

Your Aim in Life or Profession You Like to Adopt in Future

• Every man must have an aim in life. For that, he has to choose a profession in advance. My aim is to be an agricultural scientist. I have chosen it for various reasons.
• Our country is an agricultural country. Its prosperity depends on good agricultural output. For this, we need modern scientific methods of agriculture. Unfortunately, we still follow the old methods of cultivation.
• There have been developments in agricultural science these days in other parts of the world. I want to apply these methods in our country. The farmers and agriculturists will have to be trained and guided properly on the latest technologies. This will lead to agricultural production. The economic conditions of the country will also improve.

My Favourite Subject in School

• History is my favourite subject. When I read history, I become fully engrossed in it. History is not a mere record of certain dates and events. It is in fact a record of human evolution. It tells us how man has come to this present state of civilization.
• It also tells us how so many empires simply fell because of the folly of the ruling classes. We can learn how unarmed masses brought down powerful rulers through revolutions.
• It also tells us the intricate politics of different nations that brought disaster in the whole world. There are so much to learn from it. One can learn lessons from history and take proper precautions.

A Book You Have Recently Read

• Recently I read the book Ramer Sumati by Sarat Chandra. The story is all about a joint family. The central figure Ram was almost a terror to everyone that worried Narayani, his sister-in-law.
• But Narayani’s motherly love and affection gave him constant protection and saved the joint family from breaking. In fact, Narayani was more than a mother to Ramlal.
• The author’s portrayal of Ramlal appeals to me the most. Though he was a terror to others, he was like a lamb to his sister-in-law, Narayani. He was a love-hungry boy and Narayani could understand his moods well. She loved her with all affection. These tender feelings have been nicely shown in the novel. I really liked the book.

My Favourite Game

Football is my most favourite game. The game is very exciting and there is no dull moment in it. All twenty-two players have a common goal to score and win the game. The game builds up strength and stamina in the players. It also helps to develop team spirit among them. It is not an expensive game. It can be played any season, anywhere. It is the most exciting game of all. For this it is played all over the world.

Winter in Bengal Or, Your Favourite Season

• Winter is the best of all seasons in Bengal and I like this season very much. December, January, and February are the three winter months. The weather at this time is very pleasant.
• Only in the hilly areas of Darjeeling district and in some parts of North Bengal the winter is quite severe. In this season we can work hard but do not get tired. We put on warm clothes and enjoy the bright sunshine.
• The nights are very cold. The night in a warm bed under a quilt is very comfortable. Paddy is harvested in this season. Colorful seasonal flowers grow in gardens. Fish, vegetables, and fruits are also available in plenty in this season. They are very cheap also.
• This is the most suitable time for holding picnics in the open air. We can go out for holding excursions in winter. Various types of fairs and festivals like Saraswati Puja, Christmas, and New Year’s Day are also celebrated in this season. While we enjoy the cool comfort of the winter, the poor people suffer a lot during these months.

Rainy Season

• The rainy season comes after summer. It begins at the end of June and lasts till the end of August. These are the months when it rains for days together. Tanks, ponds and canals get filled up.
• Sometimes the rain is so heavy as to cause floods. The crops and thatched houses are then damaged. In some parts people have to use boats to go from one place to another. The roads become muddy. People cannot go out. Their work suffers much.
• It is the time when jute and paddy are grown. We see green trees, green grass, and green paddy fields. We get the hilsa fish in this season. Many sweet and juicy fruits like pineapple, jamrul, jackfruit, guava are found in plenty in this season. Rathjatra and Janmashtami are two important festivals in rainy season.

My Village

• The name of my village is Gouripur. It is near Bandel junction in Hooghly district. It is a small village with about one thousand villagers living mostly in thatched houses.
• There is no metalled road. Our village is connected with the main road, which is some 3 k.m. away by a kutcha road. The villagers are mostly farmers. Though there is a primary school in the village, there is no high school. The post office is about 4 km. away.
• There are two big ponds from which we collect drinking water. There is a health center where we often go for medical care. During monsoon the condition of the roads are miserable. But in winter, it is green all over. The villagers live here in an atmosphere of friendliness and amity.

Your School

• Our school, Bankura Zilla School, is a famous school in the district of Bankura. It is a Government School set up in the year 1916. It is situated in a calm and quiet area of the town. The surroundings are also beautiful with sal and eucaliptus trees all around.
• The school building is a pucca two-storeyed building. There are spacious lawns on all sides of the building. It has many rooms in which the classes are held. It has also a good laboratory for science classes.
• The student strength of the school is 700 and the number of teachers is 40. The teachers take great care of our studies. Academic record of the school is also very good. This year in the Madhyamik Examination, out of 100 students, 85 students passed in the first division and the rest in the second division. I am very proud of my school.

Your School Magazine

• A school magazine is a magazine written by the students and teachers of a particular school. We have also a school magazine and it is brought out every year on the Saraswati Puja day.
• Our assistant Headmaster is the editor and a student of class 10 is the assistant editor of the school magazine. It contains poems, short stories, articles of educational interest-all written by the students and teachers of the institution.
• The school magazine serves as a training ground for literary composition. A student feels proud and happy when he finds his writing in print. Gradually his literary talents are developed. The school magazine also serves as a link between the past and present students of the school. Old boys contributing articles in the magazine get into touch with the present students.

Flood

• Floods are generally caused by excessive rainfall. The normal rainwater flows down the river to the sea. But when the rain is too heavy, the river overflows the banks and submerges the land on either side causing flood.
• A flood causes great damage to life and property. Crops are destroyed; low-lying houses, particularly mud and thatched ones, tumble down. Domestic pets like cats, dogs, and cattle are swept away.
• Very often people remain stranded in water-logged areas for several days. They suffer much for want of food and drinking water. Besides, the stagnant water becomes the source of diseases like cholera and dysentery.
• All these create great problems to people during a flood. But a flood has its good effects too. It washes away the accumulated filth that produces germs of various diseases. The alluvial deposit it leaves behind fertilizes the soil.

The Newspaper

• The newspaper plays an important role in our life. By reading it we can know what is happening around us at home and abroad. Newspapers keep us informed of politics, trade, sports and games, films, literary and scientific matters, and many other things.
• We are also apprised of public opinions on various issues. It keeps us informed of the current events all over the world. When we feel tired or lonely we often take up a paper for relief and recreation.
• Reading newspaper is a good habit. It is essential for our general knowledge. A person not reading newspapers regularly cannot take part in any discussions on current affairs. But there are some party papers. We should be careful about choosing a newspaper. We should not be misguided by it.

Visit to a Book Fair

• In February first. I with my friend Bithika went to visit the Calcutta Book Fair in the Calcutta Maidan. When we reached there we found long queues in front of every ticket counter.
• After buying tickets we went inside and saw a large number of book stalls opened by publishers and booksellers. They were of different sizes and shapes and were beautifully decorated. Books on different subjects such as arts, science, and fiction were on display in the counters. They looked so attractive with their smart covers.
• However, the most crowd-pulling ones were the stalls selling children’s books. I bought one book on sports and games. The other one was a storybook. Bithika also bought one book on interior decoration. We took some rest taking refreshments in a cafeteria. It was an experience indeed to be at the fair. I enjoyed every moment of it.

A Village Fair

• A village fair is an important event in a village life. It often serves as a meeting place for people living far away from one another. It gives the villagers a good opportunity for both profit and amusement.
• In a fair there are hundreds of shops selling all kinds of things like stationery, clothes, domestic items, and toys. The merry-go-round is the biggest attraction to the children. There is a circus show also.
• Besides, there are arrangements for refreshments. Various kinds of foodstuff and cold drinks are sold there. When people become tired and hungry they flock to these shops. In fact, a village fair is a pleasant diversion in the dull and monotonous lives of the villagers.

Pollution

• The damage of the purity of anything is called pollution. And the pollution of air, water and land around us is called environmental pollution. Environmental pollution affects our health and causes. loss to us in different ways.
• Air pollution is caused by smokes from vehicles, chimneys of mills and factories, cooking ovens, etc. Bad smell of rotten garbages dumped in the streets, bad smell of dead animals, and filthy surface drains pollute the air.
• If we inhale impure air, it will cause great harm to our lungs. Planting the trees prevents air pollution. Water is polluted when dirty, poisonous refuse matter from mills and factories are discharged in rivers.
• If we drink this water, it will damage our health. Shrill sounds of the horns of lorries, buses, microphones cause sound pollution. Sound pollution affects our power of hearing. Therefore, we shall have to be very careful about pollution if we want to live a healthy life.

Sound Pollution

• Sound pollution is a great hazard nowadays. When the pitch of a sound crosses a certain limit and becomes intolerable the sound is said to cause pollution. Indiscriminate use of microphones, shrill electric horns of motor vehicles, sounds emitted by plying vehicles, airplanes, deafening music system – all this create noise pollution.
• Fireworks and slogan shouting also add to this problem. In fact, we are living in an age when the entire environment is surcharged with sound pollution. This causes great harm to us.
• It often leads to deafness, mental imbalance, and even heart failure. To prevent this pollution the government has made laws restricting noise level up to a certain level. People, therefore, must be made aware of the dangers of sound pollution. Any violation of the restrictions should be severely dealt with.

Proper Use of Holidays

• Holidays are very much necessary in our life. We work hard during the working days. The normal daily routine of work puts pressure upon our health and mind. We feel tired both physically and mentally.
• Holidays give us the necessary rest and relief. But we should not waste our time in idleness. We must use the holidays profitably. We can spend the time reading good books and visiting new places.
• This will increase our knowledge and experience. We can also pay visits to our friends and relatives. Going to cinema or theatre would refresh our mind. We can devote some time to social service also. We can also teach those who are illiterates. Thus, holidays should be spent usefully to restore our energy and making us fit for work again with renewed vigour.

The Value of Sports and Games

• The importance of sports and games cannot be overemphasised. They are as necessary for the mind as for the body. They keep us physically fit, mentally alert and help us to build good health. Sports and games are also necessary to keep our minds fresh and cheerful.
• Sports and games require cooperation amongst the players. The players must look for the interest of the whole team and not for individual glory. Thus, sports and games teach us selfless teamwork and help in the formation of character by enforcing discipline.
• We often get tired and bored and hardly get any mental relaxation from the heavy studies. Sports and games give us relief from this boredom. They also help to develop such qualities like firmness of mind, capacity of taking quick decisions, and prompt judgement to face the odd situations. Thus sports and games play a great role in our life.

Discipline

• Discipline means obedience (মান্যতা ) to the established (যাহা চালু আছে এমন, বিধিবদ্ধ) rules of conduct. It is of great importance in every walk of our life. In the family, all the members must obey the head of the family.
• There cannot be any peace or happiness in the family if there is no discipline. In social life every person has to obey the rules and regulations to maintain law and order in the society. If people go on according to their own sweet will, there cannot be any order and the society would suffer. The importance of discipline among soldiers is known to all.
• Every soldier must obey the commander. An indisciplined army can never win a battle. In schools and colleges, classrooms, libraries, students must obey the rules of their institutions. They must be attentive to their studies. In the playground also discipline is a great necessity. We have seen how an apparently strong but indisciplined team loses to weaker but disciplined teams. It is evident that indiscipline has no place in the world.

Discipline in Student Life

• The student life is the most important period in a man’s life. It is the formative stage of his mind. Good training received at this stage will make him a good citizen in future.
• It is therefore very essential that a student must learn discipline in his student life. Discipline is of great importance in every walk of our life. In the family, all members must obey the head of the family. In social life every person has to obey the rules and regulations to maintain law and order in the society.
• If people go on according to their own sweet will, there cannot be any order and society would suffer. In schools and colleges, classrooms, libraries, students must obey the rules of their institutions. They must be attentive to their studies. Leading a disciplined life at this stage will make him a good and responsible person in later life.

Duty of a student

• A student is a person who studies in a school or college for acquiring knowledge. Student life is, therefore, a very important phase in his life. He should make the best use of his student life.
• His primary duty is to study properly for knowing and learning. He should be very careful about his studies and must lead a disciplined life to build character. But, he should never be a bookworm.
• He must be careful about his health and should be polite and obedient to his parents and teachers. He has social responsibilities too. During holidays, he can teach the illiterate people. He can also serve the affected people in times of floods and famines. Student life is the time to prepare oneself properly for future struggles in life.

A Postman

• A postman is a familiar figure to all of us. He is a humble worker. He works in a post office. He collects letters and parcels from the post office and delivers them to us.
• A postman is a tireless worker who often has to walk a long distance in the sun and in the rain. We always eagerly wait for him to bring us letters from our near and dear ones. In fact he helps us to keep contact with our distant friends and relatives. He is a very important worker in our society and is a great friend of ours. He is always welcome in a house.

Visit to a place of Interest

• Last winter we visited Delhi, the capital of India. Delhi is an old city and it is a place of great historical interest. We went round the city and saw famous structures like Qutab Minar, Jantar Mantar, Red Fort and Jama Masjid.
• All these speak volumes for our historical past. Then there is the grand Lotus Temple built recently at Kalkaji. The Rastrapati Bhaban, Parliament House, Nehru Museum are other spots which attract a large number of tourists everyday.
• We went to Agra also one day and visited the world-famous Taj Mahal, Fatehpur Sikri, and the Agra Fort. There are so many things to see around Delhi and Agra that a period of seven days was too short to cover everything. But we had a good idea of the great city of Delhi. The cool climate, bright sunshine made our trip really enjoyable. Indeed, it was a very memorable trip.

অনেক সময় বিষয়বস্তুর উপর কিছু information (তথ্য) বা outlines দেওয়া থাকে। ঐ outline-কে সম্প্রসারণ করেও paragraph লেখা যায়। সম্প্রসারণ করার সময় প্রদত্ত information বা outline-কে উপযুক্ত ভাব এবং ভাষা ব্যবহার করে সুন্দর paragraph এ পরিণত করতে হয়। নীচে কিছু উদাহরণ দেওয়া হল।

Importance of Trees Or, Man and Trees

[Outlines: Gifts of nature-give flowers, fruits, timber, fuels materials for paper, rubber, medicinal plants releases oxygen-soil conservation-rains-prevent pollution- ecological balance]

• Trees are useful and beautiful gifts of nature. They give us flowers, fruits, timber, bamboo, fuels, etc. which are so necessary for us. They are also a great source of material for paper, rubber, gums, herbs, and medicinal plants.
• Trees give us cool shade. They absorb carbon-di-oxide from atmosphere and release oxygen which is needed for our life. The roots of trees bind loose soil and prevent soil erosion. The top fertile soil is thus retained. This helps us in agriculture and food production. Trees induce rains and prevent air pollution. They protect us from severe weather.
• An area without trees soon becomes barren and turns out to be a desert in course of time. Trees thus help in maintaining ecological balance. Indeed, they play a great role in civilisation. We should therefore avoid random felling of trees. Trees should be preserved with great care.

Triumph of Science

[Outlines: Roots of progress achievements of science in family comfort-in transport and communication–in food supply–in domestic life-computers health care-artificial satellites- abuse of science.]

• Science is at the root of progress in the modern age. With the help of science man has made great achievements in all spheres of life. Science has made our life easy and comfortable.
• It has taught us to grow more food and make domestic life comfortable and enjoyable. The electric light and fan, the electric oven, the refrigerator-all are products of science.
• Railways, ships, motor cars, aeroplanes take us ‘to distant places safely in a very short time. The telegraph, the telephone, and the radio have made communication very quick.
• The television and the cinema entertain us. Computers are working wonders in every sphere of our life. Science has also given us good medicines to cure dangerous diseases. Scientists have sent artificial satellites into space and have already landed on the Moon and expect to reach the Mars within a short time.
• But science has proved to be a curse also. It has been misused to make deadly weapons like the atom bomb, the hydrogen bomb, and poisoneous chemical gas which can destroy the world in a short time. We should use science only for the good of mankind.

A Rainy Day

[Outlines: Rainy days do not have to attend classes-streets flooded-cars and trams stop plying-buses move with great difficulty-fun in getting soaked-students fail to attend classes- school grants a rainy day-return home-enjoy playing at home.]

• I like rainy days. I like them more when my homework remains incomplete and I am afraid of attending my classes. Excessive rain during the early hours of the day greatly hampers routine works.
• Streets become flooded with water, and playgrounds often look like vast water sheets. Cars and trams stop plying. Occasionally buses move along the water-logged streets.
• The waves they create in the water are pleasant to look at. During such heavy rains, it is fun to get soaked in rains and wade through knee-deep water in the streets. Most of the students cannot attend classes while others attend with wet clothes. They are often granted a holiday. When I return home, mother takes care of me. She offers me hot tea. We often play ludo and relax at home on a rainy day.

Visit to a Circus

[Outlines: Went to see a circus-big crowd, long queues-beautiful show-trapezes, balance games, etc a man jumping with a running jeep-cyclists, jugglers-elephants, horses and other animals-funny clowns–enjoyed it much.]

• For a long time I wanted to see a circus and last winter I watched a circus show for the first time in my life. The famous Jemini Circus had come to our town and pitched its camp near the railway maidan.
• As I came near the circus tent, I found a big crowd and long queues in front of the ticket counters. The show was really beautiful. I enjoyed the trapezes, balances, and other feats performed by the artists. I was thrilled to see a man jumping a long distance with his jeep.
• The artists performed miracles with bicycles. The jugglers kept us in suspense. There were also elephants and other animals. They obeyed their masters and showed some tricks.
• I was charmed to see a horse dancing to the rythm of bands. Above all, there were the clowns. They were so funny! The show was very interesting and entertaining. I didn’t know how time passed so swiftly during the circus show.

A Great Man Or Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose

Outlines:

Name: Subhas Ch. Bose

Date of birth: 23rd January 1897

Place of birth: Cuttack, Orissa

Education: Brilliant student

Service: Passed 1. C. S. Examination did not join Govt. Service. Became Mayor of Calcutta Corporation, Congress President, fought for independence, and suffered imprisonment. Left India in disguise, formed I. N. A. fought battles.

Death: In an air accident?

• Subhas Chandra Bose was born on 23rd January 1897 in Cuttack. He came of a very rich family and was a brilliant student. Though he stood fourth in the Indian Civil Service (1. C.S.) examination, he refused to accept service under the British Government.
• Soon he joined politics and became the ‘Mayor’ of Calcutta Corporation. He also became the youngest Congress President, India was then ruled by the British Government. Subhas Chandra wanted India to be an independent country and made several plans for that purpose.
• So he was imprisoned by the British Government. But he left India in disguise and formed the I. N. A. (Indian National Army) to liberate India from the clutches of the British rulers. He fought great battles to achieve his mission.
• It is said that he died in an air accident. Whatever may be the fact, Subhas Chandra will remain in the heart of the Indian people for his courage, determination, and patriotism.

Swami Vivekananda

Outlines:

Name: Narendranath Dutta

Nickname: Bile

Place and date of birth: Calcutta, 12th January 1863

Parentage: Father – Biswanath Dutta; Mother – Bhubaneswari Devi

Education: B. A. from General Assembly

Turning point in life: Contact with Ramakrishna called Swami Vivekananda.

Speeches at the Parliament of Religions in Chicago in 1893.

Establishment of Ramakrishna Mission and Belur Math.

Death: 1902

• Swami Vivekananda was born on 12th January 1863. His original name was Narendranath Dutta and his nickname was ‘Bile’. His father’s name was Biswanath Dutta. Bhubaneswari Devi was his mother.
• He graduated from the General Assembly. The turning point in his life came when he met Sri Sri Ramakrishna. He took to religion and became his disciple. He was then named Swami Vivekananda.
• He toured the whole of India preaching education through religion. He attended the Parliament of Religions in Chicago in 1893. He established Ramakrishna Mission and Belur Math. He passed away in 1902.

Question 1. Write a passage on the great poet, novelist, and philosopher Rabindranath with the following points.

Name: Rabindra Tagore

Date of birth: 9th May 1861

Place of birth: Jorasanko, Calcutta

Name of parents: Father-Maharshi Devendranath Tagore; Mother-Sarada Devi

Won Nobel prize for literature: 1913 for Gitanjali

Founder of: Visva Bharati in 1902

Protested against: Jalianwalabagh massacre, rejected Knighthood.

Died: 1941

Answer:

• Rabindranath Tagore was a great poet, novelist, and philosopher. He was born on 9th May 1861 at Jorasanko, Calcutta. His father was Devendranath Tagore and his mother was Sarada Devi.
• In his early career he started writing poems. He was a great literary figure. In 1913 he was awarded the Nobel Prize for his collection of poems Gitanjali’. He was the first Indian to win such an award.
• He also founded Visva Bharati in 1902. He was a great patriot too. He protested against the killing of innocent Indians at Jalianwalabag and rejected his Knighthood. This great son of India died on 1941.

Question 2. Write a short life history of Sri P. C. Roy on the basis of the following information.

Name: Sri Prafulla Chandra Roy

Date of birth: 2-8-1861

Native village: Raruli, Katipara in Khulna

Primary Education: Native village

Entrance Examination: 1878

Got Gilchrist Scholarship: 1882, B.Sc. and D.Sc. from Edinburgh University 1889

Professor at Presidency College: 1889

Established Bengal Chemical Ltd: 1900

Palit Professor at Calcutta University: 1916

Retired: 1936

Death: 16-6-1944

Answer:

• Sri. P. C. Roy, the great scientist, was born on 2nd August 1861, in a small village Raruli at Katipara in Khulna, now in Bangladesh. He had his primary education at his native village and passed the Entrance Examination in 1878.
• He was a brilliant student throughout his career. After passing the B.Sc. examination in 1882 he got the Gilchrist Scholarship and received D.Sc. from Edinburgh University.
• Returning home he joined Presidency College in 1889 as a professor. In 1900 he founded the Bengal Chemical Ltd. Later in 1916, he became the Palit Professor at Calcutta University, a rare honor indeed. He retired in the year 1936 and died on 16th June 1944.

Our National Flag

[Points Colour green, white, saffron-occasion to hoist-history-your respectful homage.]

• Our national flag is very sacred to us. It has three colored stripes of equal width and they are all horizontal. The colours are saffron, white and green. The saffron is at the top, white in the middle and green at the bottom.
• There is a wheel in the middle. Each colour has its significance. The saffron colour stands for sacrifice, the white color indicates truth and purity, and green stands for freshness and energy. The wheel in the middle represents the Dharma Chakra of King Ashoka.
• This denotes activity and progress. The national flag is an emblem of national dignity. Therefore it has to be treated with honour and respect. It is hoisted daily on all important government buildings.
• Only on the days of national festivals like Independence Day, Republic Day, etc. it can be hoisted on private buildings also. Our national flag has a long history. Many freedom fighters sacrificed their lives for it. It is the duty of every Indian to uphold the honour of our national flag and pay homage to it.

Usefulness of Television

[Outlines: A wonder of science- interesting programs like songs, plays, dramas, etc. by singers, players, actors, recreations-direct knowledge of things and places-a powerful medium of mass education.].

• One of the latest inventions of science is Television. It is based on photography and its instant transmission through air on the screen after a complicated electronic process, It puts before our eyes the pictures of objects and men, thousands of miles away together with their sounds and voices. It has a big entertainment and educational value.
• Sitting in the cozy corners of our drawing rooms, we can enjoy the songs, plays, and dramas performed by eminent artists. We can watch live on the TV screen the important political, sports, and other events taking place in the remote parts of the world. This enables us to have a direct knowledge of the things and places that we watch in television.
• Television is also a powerful medium of mass education. Educational programs on health care and family planning, general knowledge, instructions, and guidance on various social matters can be sent to millions of viewers through audio-visual presentations in the TV. It is also a means by which a teacher can teach a very large number of students from a distance. Television is thus of great use to us.

Question 3. Write a paragraph with the following points.

Name: Sir J. C. Bose

Year of birth: 1858

Place of birth: Mymensingh, now in Bangladesh

Education: Village pathsala, St. Xavier’s School, B.A. in St. Xavier’s College, B.Sc. from Cambridge University

Service career: Professor, Presidency College, carried on research on

Electromagnet and Plantlife (1884-1915)

Post-retirement work: Founded Bose Institute (1917)

Achievement: A great scientist

Death: 1937

Sir Jagadish Chandra Bose

Answer:

• Sir J. C. Bose, the famous scientist, was born in the year 1858 at Mymensingh, now in Bangladesh. He had his early education at the village “Of Pathshala”. Later he shifted to St. Xavier’s
• School where he completed his school education. He passed the B. A. Examination from St. Xavier’s College and B.Sc. from Cambridge University. He served as a professor at Presidency College.
• He carried on research on Electro-magnet and plant life during the period 1884-1915. After retirement from service, he founded Bose Institute in 1917. He achieved name and honor as a great scientist. He – died in 1937.

Question 4. Write a short life sketch of Raja Rammohan Roy on the basis of the following information:

Name: Raja Rammohan Roy

Date of birth: 10th May 1774

Father: Ramakanta Roy

Mother: Tarini Davi

Education: Learnt Arabic, Persian, Sanskrit, Scholar in English, Latin, Greek, French, Tibetan

Countries visited: Tibet, England

Achievement: Founded Brahmo Samaj, Hindu College.

Abolished ‘Sati Custom’.

Works: Wrote books on various subjects.

Death: 27th September 1833. Buried in Bristol.

Raja Rammohan Roy

• As Raja Rammohan Roy was born on May 10, 1774. His parents were Ramakanta Roy and Tarini Devi. He showed great promise as a meritorious student from his very childhood.
• He had a great interest in studies and learnt languages like Arabic, Persian, Sanskrit, Latin, Greek, French, and Tibetian. Besides his mother tongue Bengali he was a great scholar in English also.
• Rammohan was a great social reformer. He founded Brahmo Samaj to counter the Hindu orthodoxy such as Sati Custom. He tried his best to remove many social evils too. He established the Hindu College and wrote many books on various subjects. He travelled to many countries including England and Tibet. The great reformer died in Bristol on September 27, 1833, and was buried there.

Question 5. Write a paragraph on Mother Teresa with the following points:

[Points: Year and place of birth-1910, Yugoslavia, Carlier name–Agnes, arrived in India 1928—first activities-a teacher in a convent school-later activities-established Nirmal Hriday- Nobel Prize in 1979, Death-1997, 5th Sep.]

Mother Teresa

Answer: Mother Teresa was born in 1910 at Albania in Yugoslavia. Her earlier name was Agnes Gonxhas Bojaxhin. At the age of 18, she came to Calcutta and joined as a teacher in a convent school. She was very much moved at the sufferings of the poor people around her. So she dedicated the rest of her life as a missionary fighting poverty, hunger and disease. She set up her organisation Missionaries of Charity in Calcutta and founded for the destitutes a home named Nirmal Hriday. She was awarded the Nobel Prize for peace in 1979. This great soul died in Calcutta on 5th September 1997.

Question 6. Study the following information and write a paragraph about Satyajit Roy, the great Indian writer and filmmaker.

Date of birth: 2nd May 1921

Birthplace: Kolkata

Education: Ballyganj Govt. High School, Presidency College, Art training from Santiniketan (Nandalal Bose and others)

Career: Professional artist at Signet Press.

First film: Pather Panchali, then Apu Trilogy, Jalsaghar, Goopy Gayne Bagha Bayen, and so many others.

Other contribution: To Bengali literature – famous adventure stories for children. Bharat Ratna from India, Legion of Honour from France, and Oscar from the U.S.A.

Honours: Satyajit Ray

Answer:

• Satyajit Ray, the great Indian filmmaker and writer was born in Kolkata on 2nd May 1921. He had his education at Ballygunge Government School and later at Presidency College. Subsequently, he received training in arts from Santiniketan under the guidance of Nandalal Bose and others.
• He started his carrer as a professional artist at Signet Press. Later on he took to filmmaking. His first film Pather Panchali made him world famous overnight.
• His other films such as Apu Trilogy, Jalsaghar, Goopy Gayen Bagha Bayen, and many others earned him a great name as a brilliant filmmaker. He also wrote many books on adventure stories for children which made him immensely popular.
• For his outstanding achievements in filmmaking, he was honored with awards like Bharat Ratna, Legion of Honour from France, and Oscar from the U.S.A.

Question 7. Study the following information about Iswar Chandra Vidyasagar and write a paragraph on him.

Date of birth: 1820, 26th Sept.

Place of birth: Village Birsingha, Midnapore.

Parentage: Father Thakurdas Bandopadhyaya.

Mother-Bhagabati Devi.

Education: Primary Education in the village-Post Primary Education in Sanskrit College, Kolkata-very brilliant student-never stood second-got title Vidyasagar.

Service life: At the first professor and then Principal of Sanskrit College-at last Inspector of Schools.

Social Service: Introduction of widow remarriage-spread of female education.

Character: Very kind to poor man a man of strong character

Answer:

• Pandit Iswar Chandra Vidyasagar, the great social reformer, was born on 26th September, 1820 at village Birsingha in the district of Midnapore. His father was Thakurdas Bandopadhyaya and mother was Bhagabati Devi.
• In his early days, he had his primary education in the village. His post primary education was in Sanskrit College, Kolkata. He was a brilliant student and never stood second in his life. He soon gathered vast knowledge and became famous for his learning. He was awarded the title Vidyasagar by his countrymen after completion of his studies.
• He started his service life as a professor of Sanskrit College, Kolkata and later became its Principal. He was the Inspector of Schools towards the end of his service career. He was a great social reformer and introduced widow remarriage in our country. He had a great love for learning and worked hard for spread of female education. Vidyasagar was a man of strong character and was also noted for his sympathy and kindness to the poor. He did a lot for them.

Question 8. Write in about 150 words a paragraph on Kshudiram Basu, the great patriot on the following points.

[Outlines: Birth in Midnapore in 1889-a spirited boy associated with a revolutionary party from school-close to Profulla Chaki in Mujaffarpur-a mission to kill Kingsford, a tyrant magistrate Kingsford unhurt Kshudiram arrested and sentenced to death-facing death with ‘Vande Mataram’ in his lips.]

Answer:

• Kshudiram Basu, the great patriot and freedom fighter, was born in 1889 in Midnapore. He was a highly spirited boy and became associated with a revolutionary party from his childhood.
• Kingsford, an Englishman, who was notorious for his tyranny, was the magistrate of Muzaffarpur at that time. To put an end to his tyranny, Kshudiram and Profulla Chaki left for Muzaffarpur on a mission to kill him.
• Unfortunately, the plan misfired and Kingsford escaped unhurt. Kshudiram tried to escape but was soon arrested, tried, and sentenced to death. But Kshudiram was a true patriot and a fearless fighter. Undaunted, he faced the situation calmly. He went to the gallows in high spirits and embraced death singing ‘Vande Mataram’.

Question 9. Use the following information and write a paragraph on Amartya Sen, the famous Economist.

Date of birth: 3 November 1933

Parents: Dr. Asutosh Sen and Smt. Amita Sen.

Education at: Santiniketan, Presidency College, Calcutta University, Cambridge University.

Teaching career: Professor of Economics, Jadavpur University (1956-58), Delhi University (1963-71), London School of Economics (1971-77), Oxford University (1977-80), Professor of Economics and Philosophy at Harvard University for 11 years.

Awards and Honours: Honorary D. Litt. from Viswa Bharati, Fellow of All Souls College, Oxford, Agnelli Internet Prize, etc. Nobel Prize for Economics in 1998.

Present occupation: Master of Trinity College, Cambridge, since 1997.

Books written: “Poverty and Famines”, “The Political Economy of Hunger” etc. Amartya Sen

Answer:

• Amartya Sen was born on 3rd November 1933. His parents were Dr. Ashutosh Sen and Sreemati Amita Sen. He had his earlier education at Santiniketan. Later he studied at Presidency College, Calcutta University, and at Cambridge University. He started his teaching career as Professor of Economics at Jadavpur University.
• He taught there from 1956 to 1958. Then from 1963 to 1971 he worked at Delhi University. After that he went to London School of Economics and taught there from 1971 to 1977 and then from 1977 to 1980 he taught at Oxford University.
• He also worked as a Professor of Economics and Philosophy at Harvard University for 11 years. He was awarded many awards and honours like Honorary D. Litt from Viswa Bharati, Fellow of All Souls College, Oxford, Agnelli Internet Prize, etc.
• In 1998 he was awarded the Nobel Prize for Economics. At present, he is engaged as the Master of Trinity College, Cambridge. He has written many books. Some of them are “Poverty and Famines,” “The Political Economy of Hunger”, etc.

Question 10. Study the following information and write a paragraph about Dr. Sarvapally Radhakrishnan, the great teacher and philosopher.

[Points: Date of birth 5th Sept. 1888 Birthplace: Tamilnadu-Education: Presidency College, Madras-Service: Professor of Philosophy at Presidency College, Madras, Calcutta, and Oxford Universities-Ambassador to the U.S.S.R. in 1949-Vice President of India, 1952- President of India 1962-67-Honour: Awarded Bharat Ratna in 1954. His birthday observed as Teachers’ Day.]

Answer:

• Dr. Sarvapally Radhakrishnan, the great philosopher, was born in Tamilnadu on 5th September 1888. He had his eduction at Presidency College, Madras. Later he became a Professor of Philosophy at Presidency College, Madras, and Calcutta.
• He also went to Oxford University and taught there for a long time. In 1949 he went to the USSR as Indian Ambassador. In 1952 he returned to India and became the Vice President of India, a post he occupied till 1962. From 1962 to 1967 he was the President of India. He was a great philosopher, teacher, and his birthday is observed as Teachers’ Day in India.

Question 11. Study the following information and write out a paragraph about Bibhutibhusan Bandyopadhyay:

Date of birth: 12th September 1894.

Place of birth: Muratipur near Kanchrapara.

Education: Passed Matriculation in the First Division from Banagram High School; Passed B. A. in 1916 with distinction from Ripon College, Calcutta.

Contributions: First novel “Pather Panchali” made him famous-wrote many books “Dristipradip”, “Aranyak”, “Debian”, short stories, essays, etc. Rabindra Award for “Ichhamati”, a writer of nature-writes for children such as “Chander Pahar”-many novels in celluloid.

Death: 18th November, 1950 at Ghatshilla residence.

Answer:

• Bibhutibhusan Bandopadhyay, the great Bengali writer, was born on 12th September, 1894 at Muratipur near Kanchrapara. He was a meritorious student and passed Matriculation Examination in the first division from Banagram High School.
• Later, he did his B.A. with distinction in 1916 from Ripon College, Calcutta. Bibhutibhusan had a literary bent of mind and started writing from his student days. His first novel was “Pather Panchali” and that made him famous overnight.
• The story of Apu and Durga is an all-time great classic in Bengali literature. Filming of this classic made Satyajit Roy a legendary film director. He wrote many other books like Dristipradip, Aranyak, Debjan besides many short stories and essays.
• He was awarded Rabindra Award for “Ichhamati”. His writings mostly depicted the serene beauty of nature. He wrote for children as well, Chander Pahar being one of them. Many of his novels were made into films. This great writer died on 18th November 1950 at his residence at Ghatsilä.

A Memorable Day

• A thing which is sweet lasts long in our memory. I distinctly remember the day. The H.S. Examination was over. One day, after spending the afternoon with my friends, as I returned home my sister came running, holding a big envelope in her hand.
• She shouted that there was good news for me and demanded a heavy bakshis before she would hand over the letter to me. After much cajoling I could get the letter. Lo and behold! It was the admission letter from the I.I.T., Kharagpur.
• My joy knew no bounds. I did quite well in the Joint Entrance Examination. But to get selected finally in the highly competitive all India test was something none could be sure of.
• In fact, I was a little tensed these days to know the result. My parents blessed me for my success. I was lost in golden dreams. At last I was going to join an institution of international fame! It was the happiest and most memorable day in my life. The Book You Would Like to read Again
• The book I would like to read again is ‘Abol Tabol’ written by Sukumar Roy. I first read the book when I was a student of class V. It is a wonderful book containing nonsense rhymes. The book is specially meant for children.
• Though the rhymes appear to talk of serious matters, they actually make no sense. The words are full of simple jokes. I have read the book several times. But still I feel like reading it again and again just for pleasure. It is one of the finest classics in Bengali literature for children. Every child should make it a point to read it.

The Advantages of Morning Walk

• Morning walk is a good habit. It is good for people of all ages-the young or the old. Walking in the fresh air in a calm atmosphere in the morning, we can enjoy the beauty of nature and come close to her when she is at her charming best.
• Morning walk is a very good exercise that gives an excellent start for the whole day. It helps to reduce fat, lethargy, and idleness and keeps the body fit. It needs no equipment or trainer, and is the cheapest form of exercise. It can be taken anywhere in open fields or open roads. So one must grow the habit of taking morning walk.

India – Our Motherland

[Points: India, a great land-golden past-the Vedas-two epics-rich heritage-home of four religions Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Sikhism-people love peace-live unitedly- fight against terrorism enough food-a developing nation-work for world peace.]

• India is our Motherland. It is a great and beautiful country. It is famous for its old civilisation and culture. It was from here that the light of civilization first spread to the countries in South-East Asia.
• Her Vedas, Ramayana, and Mahabharata are amongst the greatest books of the world. Some of the religions of the present day- Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Sikhism had their origin here. People here belong to different religions, castes, and creeds.
• They have different languages, food habits, dresses, etc. But still, they stand united as Indians. India is a developing nation and has made great progress in agriculture, industry, education, science, and technology. It is self-sufficient in food and most other consumer goods. India fights against terrorism and is working for world peace.

A Journey By A Bus

• Last week we made a trip to Digha. We took the bus at the Esplanade depot. at 7.30 in the morning. Soon it crossed Vidyasagar Setu and Kona Expressway met National Highway 6. From Vidyasagar Setu we had a wonderful view of the Ganges and the city of Kolkata.
• We reached Kolaghat at about 10 a.m. and had some snacks and tea in a roadside stall. We could also see the giant Kolaghat Thermal Power Station on the way.
• Turning left we moved along National Highway 41 and reached Nanda Kumar where we took a right turn. Driving through Digha Road towards Contai, we reached Digha at about 1 p.m. The journey along the wide highways was very smooth and pleasant. We enjoyed the trip very much.

Healthy Living

[Points: Balanced diet-drink pure water-regular physical exercise-cleanliness]

• Health is a great treasure, and it is the source of all happiness. So we must be very careful about healthy living. The first thing necessary for that is a balanced diet.
• It should be a mixture of right proportions of carbohydrates, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. Fresh vegetables and fruit should also be taken. Excessive intake of any one of these is bad for health.
• We must also take physical exercise regularly. It makes the body strong and active and keeps the mind cheerful. Stresses should also be laid on the cleanliness of the surrounding and the purity of the drinking water. Any contamination of food would be harmful. Healthy living ensures great pleasure in life.

Air Pollution

[Points: Great problem-causes-mills, vehicles, burning coal, etc.- – steps to be taken]

• Environmental pollution is a great problem of modern-day life. The most damaging effect is caused by air pollution. The main sources of air pollution are exhausts from engines, furnaces, and industrial wastes.
• Smoke from burning wood, coal, and cooking ovens also create severe air pollution. These smokes are full of carbon monoxide and lead particles which are highly injurious to health. Garbage, dead and rotten animals dumped in streets produce gas which pollutes the air.
• If we inhale polluted air, it will cause great harm to our lungs. So we shall have to be very careful about air pollution. We should try to keep the atmosphere clean and plant trees which absorb carbon dioxide from atmosphere and release oxygen.

How to Prevent Water Pollution

• Water pollution is contamination of streams, lakes, and underground water by substances that are harmful to living bodies. Water is polluted when poisonous waste matters from factories and mills are discharged into rivers.
• Pesticides and fertilizers used in agriculture also pollute water. The chemical effluents of these compounds in the soil are finally washed out into the surface water and pollute it.
• Besides, heavy metals like copper, lead, mercury, etc. get into water from various sources including automobile exhausts, mines, etc. Drinking of polluted water can result in long-term health problems. To prevent water pollution, industrial wastes should be treated properly and municipal sewage cleaned regularly. The use of pesticides and fertilizers in agriculture and house gardening should also be controlled.

My Likes and Dislikes

• Everybody has his like and dislikes, and so do I. Of all the things in the world, I like reading books and travelling the most. Biographies and detective stories are my favorites. I also like mixing with my friends. Very often we visit places of historical and religious interest and spend good times there.
• Besides, I like games and take part in football, cricket and table tennis. I am also very fond of gardening and grow flowers and vegetables at our backyard. Music has a special place in my heart. I do not like seeing movies and gossiping. Watching too much of TV and neglecting studies irritate me. I also dislike dishonesty, laziness, and unpunctuality which I consider as great vices.

Autumn in West Bengal

[Points: Autumn succeeds the ‘Rainy Season’ preceeds the winter divided into two- Carly autumn and late autumn-after heavy r. fall-weather moderate-not hot nor cold-natural scenery-harvesting time-many festivals- enjoyment-season of pleasure and mirth.]

• Autumn in West Bengal comprises the months of September and October. It begins with the end of the rainy season and continues till the beginning of winter.
• It has two phases early autumn and late autumn. After the heavy rainfall in monsoon, the weather this time is moderate-it is neither hot nor cold. The natural scenery is also quite beautiful.
• The sky is clear and we often enjoy the beauty of moonlight in all its sweetness. Paddy is harvested in this season. It is also the time when comes the Durga Puja, the greatest Hindu religious festival. Schools and colleges remain closed for some time, enabling people to enjoy themselves as they like.

Computer

[Points Introduction-do difficult calculations-store data speed and accuracy- – used in schools, colleges, libraries, hospitals, banks, train and plane bookings-speedy transactions – telecommunication-research work – conclusion.]

• The latest gift of science is a computer. It works like a super-electronic brain that processes data into information. Its main feature is speed and accuracy. Computers have found a place even in our homes, at workplaces and schools, and colleges.
• They are being used in libraries, hospitals, banks, and reservation counters. It has a special use in a telecommunication system and helps to set worldwide instant network at the click of a button. Scientific research work, and spaceflights are greatly benefited by the advancement of Computer Science. Because of its wide use in every aspect of life, learning of computers has been included in school curriculum. Computers are a real boon to mankind.

Punctuality

[Points: Meaning of punctuality-value of punctuality in everyday life-key to success in life-punctuality is the world of nature – conclusion]

• Punctuality means keeping to the appointed or fixed hour. Time is invaluable. Nothing can stop the flow of time or call back a time that is past. A punctual man, however busy or engaged, finds time for more work.
• An unpunctual man, on the other hand, far from doing much, cannot finish his normal duties even. If we are punctual we shall not miss any class lecture, we shall not miss the train.
• Others will not be kept waiting in an urgent meeting. But an unpunctual man incurs the displeasure of everybody and fails in life. Punctuality is one of the secrets of success in one’s life. A punctual man creates a good impression on others and is respected by all whereas an unpunctual man produces bad impression on the minds of others as he wastes their time by failing an appointment.
• Even everything in nature is punctual as a rule. Had the sun been not punctual to rise in the east and set on the west, the moon would have not appeared. This unpunctuality in the planet would have made everything topsy-turvy in the planet, leading to the disappearance of life in it. So we must be punctual in every step in our life.

Your Daily Life

• I usually get up from bed every day at 6 a.m. Then I wash my face and have breakfast. Next, I sit down to prepare my lessons. At 9-30 a.m. I have my bath and take meals. I start for school after that and return from school at about 5 p.m.
• In the afternoon I always go out to play with my friends. Returning home, I wash myself thoroughly and eat something before I start my lessons again. At 9-30 p.m. I have dinner and go to bed at about 10-30 p.m. after watching TV program for a while.
• But on Sundays and holidays, after doing my homework I spend time reading books and watching TV. After lunch, I relax on my bed for some time and then go out to meet my friends. Returning home I start my homework and go to bed after having dinner.

Value of Time

• Time is invaluable. It flows on ceaselessly and time once gone is gone forever. Lost time cannot be recovered by any means. Many do not realize this. They waste their time, thinking that they would make up the loss in future.
• But the hope may be never realized. Every moment of our time has its particular duty. Putting off our work, therefore, means over-burdening us. That makes our tasks heavier and more difficult in future.
• That is why students who neglect their studies from day to day often fail in spite of hard labour before the examination. All successful men everywhere are those who made proper use of every moment of their time. We should, therefore, all make the best use of time.
• My HomeHome is the sweetest place on earth. I am very proud of my home. At home I have my parents, one brother and two sisters. My father is the head of the family and is a doctor. He looks after the welfare of the entire family.
• My mother manages the household works. She takes care of our food, clothes, health, etc. and also looks after our comfort. The two sisters are very dear to me. They go to a local school.
• Apu, my younger brother, is a class III student. My father looks after our study whenever he has time. I always give my parents a helping hand whenever needed. We are not rich, but there is peace in our family. That’s why my home is so sweet to me.

Do’s and Don’tsTo Guard Against Cholera

Guard Against Cholera Do’s

1. Take cholera inoculation immediately.
2. Keep your home and the surroundings clean and free from flies and mosquitoes.
3. Drink only boiled water.
4. Keep all food and drinking water properly
5. Contact the local doctor if there is any house.

Guard Against Cholera Don’ts

1. Do not take cut fruits or any food item from the street hawkers.
2. Do not take any food which is kept in the open.
3. Do not use dirty water from ponds.
4. Do not allow garbage accumulation near the covered.

Annual Prize-giving Ceremony of Your School

[Outlines: Date and time-President-arrangements-opening song-annual report cultural programmes-President gave away the prizes-President’s speech-vote of thanks.]

• The 25th Prize-giving ceremony of our school was held on Sunday, the 10th April 2004, under the Presidentship of Sir A. K. Roy. M.A., Ph.D., Principal of the local College. On this occasion a big pandal was erected in the school compound.
• It was tastefully decorated with flags and festoons. A large number of people including the students’ guardians attended the ceremony. The function started with the opening song, sung by the students of class 10.
• The Headmaster then read his report, which showed all-round improvement in the affairs of the school. Then followed an interesting programme of recitations and songs by the boys of the school, which was enjoyed by everybody.
• The President then gave away the prizes. Next came his speech. He advised the boys to maintain discipline and to be sincere and hard-working in their studies. The meeting ended with a vote of thanks to the chair, proposed by the Assistant Headmaster.

Question 12. Write a report on the condition of Kolkata after a heavy rain.

[Outlines:- Time and date-water logging-disruption of electric supply-no tram-train service disrupted-misery of people]

• Last Friday in the morning Kolkata was lashed by a heavy rain. The rain started at about 9 a.m. and continued for about three hours. The result was so devastating that it paralyzed the city life for the whole day.
• Water accumulated all over the city, specially in low-lying areas like Tiljala, Kasba, Beleghata, Dum Dum, etc. In some areas, the electric supply was disrupted as some poles overturned.
• Trams also stopped plying from about 10 a.m. and the commuters had a hard time reaching their destinations. Train services were also disrupted as overhead wires snapped and water flooded the tracks. The misery of the people simply beggared description.
• In the low lying areas, water entered, many huts. The residents were compelled to abandon their houses and move to safety. Many mud houses also collapsed. Many organisations have already taken up relief works to mitigate the hardship of the affected people.

অনেক সময় কোনো বিষয়বস্তুর সারাংশ চার্ট (chart) বা টেবিল (table) আকারে দেওয়া হয় এবং তা থেকে বিষয়বস্তুর উপর paragraph লিখতে বলা হয়।

এই প্রকার paragraph লিখতে অধিকাংশ ক্ষেত্রেই passive voice এর ব্যবহার করা হয়। নীচের উদাহরণগুলি লক্ষ্য করো :

Question 13. Study the chart below for preparation of tea. Then write the process of tea making in a paragraph.

1. Preparation of Tea

Answer:

• To prepare tea, some cold water is first taken in a kettle. It is then boiled on an oven till the vapour comes out. Tea leaves are next put in a tea pot and the boiled water is poured into it.
• It is then left for two minutes for the leaves to soak. Sugar and milk are now added to it and the whole mixture is stirred with a tea spoon. The tea is now ready. It is poured into cups through a strainer and served hot.

2. Preparation of Orange Juice

[Points: Plucking of oranges-sorting-cleaning-crushing to extract the juice mixing water and syrup pouring into sterilised bottle-sealing and labelling despatching to shops for sale. ]

• First oranges are plucked from the garden and fresh ones are sorted out. The oranges are then cleaned thoroughly with water. They are next crushed in mixer to extract juice from them. Water and syrup in proper quantities and a little preservative are now added to the juice.
• The juice is then mixed thoroughly. The orange juice is poured into sterilised bottles. These are then sealed and labeled. The bottles are sent to shops for sale.

Question 14. Write a paragraph on the processing of guava jelly with the help of the following flow-chart:

[Outlines: Collecting ripe guavas-sorting and cleaning-cutting into small pieces-boiled, crushed-seeds separated-adding sugar, syrup and preservative-boiled again to make it thick- cooling and bottling in sterilised bottles-sealed and labeled-ready for sale. ]

Answer:

• First, ripe guavas are collected from the garden. These are then sorted out and the rotten ones are removed. The guavas are now cleaned with water and cut into small pieces. These are then boiled in water and crushed to form a pulp.
• The pulp is next passed through a sieve to remove the seeds. Sugar, syrup, and some preservative are then added to the pulp, and the mixture is boiled again till it becomes thick. It is next allowed to cool and we get guava jelly. This is now filled in sterilized bottles which are sealed and labeled. They are now ready for sale.

Bringing out a School Magazine

[Outlines: Manuscripts are collected from students and teachers → screened with additions, alterations, and omissions→ manuscripts sent to the press-proof correction → sent for final printing → printed in book form and distributed. ]

• First manuscripts are collected from students and teachers on different subjects. These are then thoroughly screened. Additions, alterations, and omissions are made in the manuscripts where necessary.
• These manuscripts are now ready for printing. They are then sent to press. The press sends proofs that are to be checked and corrected thoroughly. When the final proofs are ready, the whole lot is sent for printing. The whole printed matter is then sent to the binder for binding in book form. The magazine is now ready for distribution.

Question 15. Read the above chart for paper making process. Then write a passage on paper making.

Answer:

• We use lots of paper in our daily life. It is manufactured in a big way to meet our demand. Paper is generally made from four basic raw materials. These are wood, bamboo, rags, and grass.
• First, they are chopped into pieces, soaked in water, and made into pulp with the help of a machine. This is now mixed with adequate quantity of lime for whitening. This pulp is then boiled thoroughly and allowed to pass through wire meshes. We get wet paper at this stage. This wet paper is then passed over heated rollers for drying and pressed into thin sheets. The paper is wound in rolls and sent to market.

Question 16. Study the following chart carefully and then write a paragraph in about 120 words on the processing of solid rubber from rubber plants.

Start like this: Rubber is a very useful material.

Rubber Processing
Answer:

• Rubber is a very useful material. It is produced from the milk-white liquid called latex obtained from rubber plants. Latex is first collected from rubber plantations.
• The collection is then sent to factories in containers. The thick latex is now mixed with chemicals. It is turned into rubber slabs. The slabs are cut into pieces and pressed with rollers.
• Thus sheets of rubber are obtained. The rubber sheets are next sent to smokehouse for treatment. This treatment enables the rubber to be preserved for a long period of time. The treated rubber turns into dry sheets of rubber. It is then packed and sent to market for sale.

Production of Steel

[Points Iron ore mixed with lime and coke taken to blast-furnace-melted under high-temperature pig iron-melting for purification-add carbon-steel. ]

• Steel is produced from iron ores. First, the ore is collected from mines. It is then mixed with limestone and coke and taken to the blast furnace where it is heated to a very high temperature. It melts and pig iron is thus produced. It is then purified by adding carbon to it and melting it further. Steel is obtained as the final product.

Preparation of Phenol

[Points: Mixing crushed resin with boiled castor oil-cooling-mixing caustic soda solution- stirring solution frequently-pouring creosote oil leaving it for ten minutes-adding carbolic acid and potassium permanganate-pouring water-constant stirring-pouring into another pot after 24 hours.]

• Crushed resin mixed with castor oil is first boiled in a pot. After mixing it thoroughly it is allowed to cool. Caustic soda solution is then added to it and the whole solution is stirred frequently.
• Some creosote oil is next poured into it and it is left as such for ten minutes. Later, carbolic acid, potassium permanganate, and some water are poured into it and the whole mixture stirred constantly for thorough mixing. It is next kept for 24 hours and we get Phenol. It is then filled in bottles for sale.

Making of Batik Work

[Points: Cut cloth to desired size draw design on it with pencil-melt wax-dip cloth in fast color-allow it to dry-paint melted wax on parts which should keep fast colour-allow it to dry-remove wax by bending cloth/ using hot iron-batik printed cloth is now ready to use. ]

• To make a batik work, first, a piece of cloth is taken. It is next cut to the desired size. The design is then drawn on it with a pencil. Some wax is now melted in a pot.
• The cloth is next dipped in fast color and allowed to dry. The melted wax is then painted on parts of the cloth which should keep the fast colour and it is allowed to dry. The wax is then removed by bending the cloth or using a hot iron. We now get batik printed cloth ready for use.

Question 17. Study the flowchart and describe how Mango Pickle is prepared.

[Points: Buying (mangoes)→ sorting, removing rotten ones→ cleaning→ cutting into pieces – drying mixing (salt, spices, mustard oil, chilly, etc.) → keeping on a flat pot in the sun → pouring into jars, preserved.]

Answer:

• To prepare mango pickle, first good quality green mangoes are bought from the market. Then these mangoes are to be sorted and the rotten ones removed. The selected mangoes are then cleaned with water and cut into small pieces.
• They are then dried in the sun. Salt, spice, chilly, mustard oil are then added to them. These pieces of mangoes are now left in the sun on a flat pot for a few days. When absolutely dry and ready, they are poured into jars. They are now preserved for consumption.

Question 18. Find below a chart that shows how Mango Juice is processed. Write a paragraph in 100 words about it following the chart.

[Points: (Harvesting and delivering→ sorting→ cleaning crushing → mixing with water → syrup → putting into boxes → despatching)]

• Mangoes are harvested in gardens and sent to factories. They are then first sorted out and the rotten or defective ones are removed. The mangoes are then cleaned and washed in water thoroughly.
• Next, they are crushed by hand or machines. Water and syrup are then added in required quantities along with some preservative. The preservative helps in keeping the mango paste intact for a long time without getting decomposed. The material is then bottled in jars, sealed and labelled. The jars are packed into boxes and sent to market for sale.

Question 19. Read the flowchart and describe how clothes are washed and made ready for wear.

[Points: (Mixing detergent powder with water→ putting dirty clothes into mixture→ left for 15 to 20 minutes → scrabbing → rinsing → drying → pressing→ ready for wear.)]

Washing of Clothes

• Some quantity of water is first taken in a bucket and detergent powder is added to it. The water is then stirred thoroughly till a rich lather is produced. The clothes are now soaked into the mixture and left there for about fifteen to twenty minutes.
• They are then thoroughly scrubbed till’ dirt comes out. The clothes are now washed with clean water and rinsed. After drying the clothes in the open sun, they are pressed neatly. The clothes are now ready for wear.

Making of Bread

[Points: (Wheat grown in fields sold to flour mills → taken to factory → mixed with water, salt, yeast’divider’ cuts dough into loaves → doughs made to swell→ baked in ovens → sliced and wrapped by machines sold in shops.)]

• The basic ingredient needed for making bread is flour. It is produced in flour mills from wheat which is grown in fields. For the preparation of bread, flour is first mixed with water.
• Salt and yeast are then added to it and the matter mixed thoroughly to make a dough. A ‘divider’ is now used to cut the dough into loaves which are then baked in ovens. The dough swells and turns into a bread. The bread is then sliced, wrapped by machines, and sold in shops.

Preparation of Omelette

[Points: (Egg, onion, ginger, chilli→ onion, chili, ginger cut into pieces egg broken → poured into a pot→ onion, chili, a bit of salt and turmeric mixed→ the mixture stirred → a little mustard oil poured into a frying pan mixture poured into hot oil→ spread all over gently→ rolled and served with sauce.)]

• Take an egg, some onions, chilies, and ginger. Take a little ghee or butter also. Cut the onions, chilies, and ginger into small pieces. Break the egg into a small pot and add chili, onion and ginger pieces, and a bit of salt into it.
• Stir the mixture thoroughly. Take a pan and heat the butter or ghee on it. When it is properly heated, pour the mixture of egg on it. Spread the mixture gently on the pan and fry it for a minute or so. Make a roll and fry it thoroughly by turning. The omelet is now ready for serving with sauce.

Preparation of Coffee

[Points: (Kettle filled with water boiled in a stove→ pot made ready with coffee powder one teaspoon for each cup boiling water poured into pot → mixture stirred → sugar and milk added stirred → ready to serve. )]

• To prepare coffee, water is first boiled in a kettle by putting it on a stove. Pots are made ready with coffee powder-one teaspoonful for each cup. The boiling water is next poured into the pots, and sugar and milk are then added to it. The whole mixture is stirred thoroughly with a spoon. The coffee is now ready for serving.

Preparation of Lemon Squash

[Points: (Lemons collected→ scrubbed→ the rind (outer hård skin) scrapped → boiled with water-cooled squeezed for juice → citric acid and sugar mixed bottled → sent for sole. )]

• For the preparation of lemon squash, a sufficient number of lemons are collected first and these are cleaned by scrubbing. The rind (hard skin) of the lemon is then scrapped off and the lemons are boiled in water and allowed to cool.
• The juice is then squeezed out and after careful straining it is mixed with citric acid and sugar in proper proportion. The squash is now ready for consumption. It is next poured into sterilized bottles and labelled nicely. These are then sent to market for sale.

Preparation of Chowmein

[Points: (Noodles bought boiled with little water→ water drained→ onion, garlic, chili, ginger, beans, cabbages chopped → fried in a shallow pan over little oil boiled noodles added → salt, sauce to taste → served hot. )]

• Get some chow noodles from the market and break them into pieces. Put the noodles into a pan and boil them in water to soften the pieces. Next, drain out the water.
• Now sliced pieces of onion, garlic, chili, ginger, beans, and chopped cabbage are fried in a frying pan over little oil. The noodles are then added to the mass with a little salt in it. Fry them for about ten minutes and the chowmein is now ready. Spread a little sauce over the preparation in plates and serve them hot.

Preparation of Tomato Jelly

[Points (Tomatoes bought from market-sorting and removing rotten ones-cleaning → smashing extracting juice→→ boiled for 30 minutes→ adding sugar, chilli and preservative →→ jelly prepared)]

• First tomatoes are bought from the market. They are then sorted out and the rotten ones are removed. The tomatoes are next cleaned thoroughly with water and smashed in mixers to extract juice.
• The juice is now boiled for thirty minutes with the addition of sugar, chili, and a little preservative in it. The boiling continues till a pulp is formed. This is then allowed to cool and we get tomato jelly. It is now poured into bottles. After sealing and labelling, the bottles are sent to market for sale.

Preparation of Rehydration Mixture

[Points: (Clean hands, pots, teaspoon, tablespoon, cùps → pour 1litre boiled but cold water in a pot add 2 tablespoonfuls of sugar or honey, 1⁄2 teaspoonful salt, 1⁄2 cup orange juice, 1⁄2 teaspoonful/salt, 4 teaspoonful sodibicarb→ stir well → ready.)]

• To make the mixture, at first both the hands and other pots, tablespoons, teaspoons, and cups are to be washed and cleaned thoroughly. Then 1 liter of water is taken in a pot and boiled.
• It is then allowed to cool. 2 tablespoonfuls of sugar or honey and 1⁄2 teaspoonful of salt are now added to it and the mixture is stirred thoroughly. Next, 1⁄2 cup of orange juice and 1⁄4 teaspoonful of soda bicarb are added to the mixture and it is stirred constantly for thorough mixing. The mixture is now ready for use.

Preparation of Apple Jelly

[Points:( Buying apples → sorting and removing rotten ones → cleaning→ cutting into pieces → boiling in a container → turning into thick liquid substance → adding sugar → mixing chemicals for preservation → pouring into sterilized bottles → Sealing → sent to market. )]

• First, ripe apples are bought from market. These are then sorted out and the defective ones removed. The apples are now cleaned with water and cut into small pieces.
• These are then boiled in water in a container and crushed to form a pulp. Sugar, syrup, and some preservatives are then added to the pulp, and the mixture is boiled again till it becomes thick. It is next allowed to cool and we get apple jelly. This is now filled in sterilised bottles which are sealed and labelled. They are then sent to market for sale.

How the Postal System works

[Points: (Letters dropped into post-box→ collected and delivered at the post office → sorted the post office → sorted out → despatched→ delivered. )]

• The postal system works in a chain of events. First, letters are dropped into post-boxes at different spots. These are collected at fixed hours and taken to the post office. They are now sorted out according to destinations and dispatched to the respective post offices. The letters are then delivered to the addressees by postmen.

Formation of Rain

[Points (Clouds carry water vapour → cool air condenses the vapor into drops. drops combine together→ bigger drops formed → raindrops are too heavy to float → fall down in the form of rain )]

• When sun rays fall on the seas, rivers, lakes, etc., the water gets heated and turns into vapour. The hot vapor, being lighter than air, rises up and comes in contact with cool air high in the sky.
• The higher it goes, the cooler it becomes. When it becomes very cold, it condenses into droplets of water and forms clouds. Finer droplets combine together to form bigger drops. Gradually they become too heavy to float and fall on the earth in the form of rain.

Processing of Newspaper Publication

[Points: (Collection of news and pictures by press reporters and photographers → sorting → editing type setting in machines/computers → insertion of paper rolls→ printing of news → folding and cutting →newspaper ready → distribution → home delivery.)]

• Production of newspapers is a rather simple process. First, news and pictures collected by the press reporters and press photographers are taken to the editor where they are edited.
• Then types are set in machines or computers and the text composed. Paper rolls are then inserted in the printing machine. The printing machine is next operated and the news is printed on the paper. The newspapers are then folded and cut. These are now ready for distribution. The vendors or hawkers deliver them to the readers at home.

Preparation of Mustard Oil

[Points: (Seeds collected and dried→ dried seeds put into the hawler or crusher for crushing→ little water added oil cakes separated→ oil collected in containers → sealed→ ready for use )]

• Mustard seeds are first collected from the field and dried in bright sunshine for several days. The dried seeds are next put into the hawler or crusher and crushed with addition of a little water to extract oil. It is then strained to separate the oil cakes from the mustard oil which is collected in containers. The containers are next sealed and sent to market with oil ready for use.

Soap Making

[Points: (Coconut oil + caustic soda + water heated (half an hour) → allowed to cool → common salt added to be kept in that condition for twelves hours→ cut to pieces → ready for use )]

• Collect some coconut oil and caustic soda in a big pan. Mix them thoroughly with addition of water. Place the mixture on a big oven and heat it for half an hour. Stir the mixture thoroughly while heating.
• Then allow the mixture to cool down for some time. Add some common salt to keep the mixture in that condition for twelve hours. It solidifies. Cut the material to pieces. The pieces are now ready for use as soaps.

Question 20. Read the notice and write it in the form of a passage in not more than 100 words.

Answer:

• Rabindra Jayanti will be celebrated by Regent Estate Association this year at the Regent Estate Triangular Park at 6 p.m. on 8th May. Dr. S. K. Mitra, the renowned poet, has kindly consented to be the chief guest and Dr. N. N. Das will preside over the meeting.
• A cultural program has also been arranged with eminent artists like Sri Sukumar Dutta, Sri Swapan Gupta, Sri Santi Mitra and Sm. Chandana Roy. Besides, the main attraction of the evening would be the dance drama “Balmiki Protiva” to be staged by the members of Regent Estate Association.
• There is no entry fee and all are welcome.

Question 21. Read the notice. Write it in the form of a passage within 100 words.

Answer:

An annual excursion has been organized by Pragati Sangha. The travel will be by a luxury coach and it includes visits to Bolpur, Bakreswar, Tarapith, and Massanjore. The bus will start from the Sangha premises at 6 a.m. on 14th January and will return on the 17th afternoon. The cost for the whole tour would be Rs. 450.00 per head, all-inclusive. You are requested to book your scat Carly, latest by 10th January.

Question 22. Read the above advertisement and write a paragraph from the information given.
Answer:

• The All India Poetry Competition-2009 will be held under the sponsorship of the British Council Division and The Poetry Society (India). The entry is open to persons who can send poems written by them in English or translated in English from any Indian language.
• The competition carries a first prize of a two-week trip to Britain. Entry forms can be had from the British Council Libraries or by sending a self-addressed stamped envelope to “The Poetry Society (India), L-67A, Malviya Nagar, New Delhi-110017.” The entry closes on 30th June 2009.

Story Writing

Story-writing-এ গল্পের plot (বিষয়বস্তু) নির্বাচন বা কীভাবে গল্পটি লিখতে হবে সে বিষয়ে লেখকের কোনো স্বাধীনতা থাকে না। কতকগুলি points বা outlines দেওয়া থাকে এবং সেইসব points / outlines অবলম্বন করেই গল্পটি লিখতে হয়।

How to proceed (কীভাবে অগ্রসর হতে হবে) :

Read And Learn Also WBBSE Solutions For Class 8 English

1. প্রদত্ত ‘ points / outlines- গুলি হতে গল্পের plot বা বিষয়বস্তু সম্বন্ধে সুস্পষ্ট ধারণা না হওয়া পর্যন্ত সেগুলি পুনঃপুনঃ পড়বে।
2. Plot সম্বন্ধে ধারণা হওয়ার পর কোনোরূপ মুখবন্ধ না লিখে একেবারে গল্প আরম্ভ করবে।
3. Points-গুলি যে পর্যায়ে দেওয়া থাকে গল্পের কথাগুলিও সেই পর্যায়ে লিখতে হবে।
4. গল্পের একটি title দিবে। গল্পটির প্রধান চরিত্র বা ঘটনা বা গল্পের সাথে সুসঙ্গত কোনো proverb বা প্রচলিত উক্তি title রূপে ব্যবহার করতে পারো। নীচের examples গুলি দেখো।

Story Writing Examples

Develop a story with the help of the following outlines. Give the title and moral of each story.

Question 1. Outlines: Two friends walking by a jungle-a bear suddenly comes out–one of the friends climbs up a tree-the other cannot-lies flat on the ground as dead-bear smells his face-thinks him dead and goes away-the first friend comes down-enquires what the bear whispers into his ears–the second friend replies, “Don’t trust a friend who leaves you in danger.”
Answer:

Title: A False Friend

Once upon a time two friends were walking by a jungle, talking about their love for each other. Suddenly they saw a bear coming out of the jungle. One of the friends at once forgot all his boast of friendship and climbed up a tree to save himself, without any thought of the other. The latter could not climb a tree.

So he lay flat upon the ground as dead, for he had heard that the bear would not touch a dead body. The bear came upon him, smelt his ears, nose, and face, and then went away, taking him for dead.

After it had disappeared the first friend came, down from the tree and asked the other what the bear had whispered into his ears. The latter had seen what a false friend he was and replied, “The bear advised me never to trust a man who leaves his friend in danger.”

Moral: A friend in need is a friend indeed.

Question 2. Outlines: A crow on a tree-a bit of flesh in her beak-a fox praises her beauty but expresses sorrow that she had no voice-the vain bird gives a ‘caw’ to prove that she has a voice-the flesh drops down the fox picks it up and goes away, taunting her for her vanity.
Answer:

Title: The Vain Crow

A crow sat on a tree with a bit of flesh in her beak. A fox saw her and thought of having the flesh. He said, “How beautiful you are how glossy your feathers are But alas! God had given you no voice.

It is certainly very cruel of him.” The crow was flattered by the praise and gave a ‘caw’ to prove that she had a voice. The flesh dropped from her beak. The fox picked it up and went away saying, “Vain bird, had you been half as wise as you are vain, you would not have lost the flesh.”
Moral: Don’t believe a flatterer.

Question 3. Outlines: A fox fell into a well- can’t climb up goat comes there fox praises the sweetness of the water of the well goat jumps down — the fox leaps upon its horn and gets out of the well-the goat is left behind.
Answer:

Title: The Fox and the Goat

Once a thirsty fox came to a well to drink water. By chance he slipped and fell into the well. He tried hard to get out of the well but could not. Soon a goat came there. The fox was in all praise for the water.

He invited the goat saying, “Come here, my friend. The water is so sweet. Just have a hearty drink.” The foolish goat became greedy and jumped into the well. The fox at once seized the opportunity to get out of the well by leaping upon its horns. The foolish goat understood the trick of the fox only too late. It was left behind to meet its doom (F).

Moral: Look before you leap.

Question 4. Outlines: A lion-killing animals hare came his being late animals decided to send one animal daily – turn of a was sorry-walked slowly-hungry lion angry-demanded to know the cause of the hare told a false story-held up by another lion-the lion wanted to see- the hare led him to a well the lion saw its own image jumped in— died.
Answer:

Title: The Foolish Lion

Once a lion was killing many animals. The animals were naturally afraid. They decided to send one animal daily to the lion. At last it was the turn of a hare to go to the lion. The hare was naturally sorry and walked slowly. He was late. The lion became angry and demanded to know the cause of his being late. The hare told him a false story.

He said that he was held up by another lion on the way. The lion became angry and wanted to see the other lion. The hare led him to a nearby well full of water where the lion saw his own image in it. But he could not understand it. He became furious and jumped into the well. Thus he died.

Moral: Look before you leap.

Question 5. Outlines: A hare and a tortoise wanted to run a race-they ran together for sometime-the over-confident hare slept on the way-the tortoise ran on non-stop-the hare woke up and ran- the tortoise had already arrived at the goal.
Answer:

Title: The Hare and the Tortoise

Once a hare and a tortoise wanted to run a race. They set out for the race. They ran together for some time and soon the hare went far ahead of the tortoise. The overconfident haré then took it easy and decided to take some rest.

He slept on the way. But the tortoise though slow ran non-stop. Soon, he overtook the sleeping hare and went far ahead of him. When the hare woke up and saw the tortoise much ahead, he tried to overtake him desperately, but failed. The tortoise reached the goal first and won the race.

Moral: Slow and steady wins the race.

Question 6. Outlines: A thirsty crow finds water nowhere comes to a pitcher-water too low down- the crow picks up stones and throws them into the pitcher-the water level rises-the crow quenches their thirst.
Answer:

Title: The Crow and the Pitcher

Once a crow became very thirsty. It searched for water but could not find it anywhere. At last it saw a pitcher at a distance. It flew down to it and found some water in it at the bottom. As the water was beyond its reach, it could not drink water, despite many attempts. But the crow was very thirsty and it must drink water anyhow.

It saw some stones lying nearby. Immediately a plan was chalked out. It dropped the stones into the pitcher one by one. The water level rose up to the mouth of the pitcher. The crow now could easily drink water and was satisfied.

Moral: Where there is a will, there is a way.

Question 7. Outlines: A farmer had three quarrelsome sons-he thought of a plan-asked his sons to break a bundle of sticks-each failed-the bundle was untied-the sticks were easily broken- his advice to his sons.
Answer:

Title: The Old Man and His Sons

A farmer had three sons. They always quarreled with one another. He always asked them not to quarrel but all was in vain. He was, thus, a worried man. One day he called his three sons and asked them to bring a bundle of sticks.

He asked each one of them to break it, but none of them could break the bundle. The farmer then asked each of his sons to break a single stick. All of them could break the stick easily.

He then urged them to remember that nobody would be able to do any harm to them if they remained united; but if they quarreled and remained separate, others could do harm to them easily. Good sense dawned on the sons and they stopped quarrelling and lived together happily.

Moral: Unity is strength.

Question 8. Outlines: The wheels of a cart sank into mud-the carter whipped the bullocks in vain-prayed to the god of strength for help-the god came-asked him to put his shoulder to the wheel- the cart moved.
Answer:

Title: The Carter and His Cart

Once a carter was driving his cart in a village road. Suddenly, one of the wheels of the cart sank in the mud. The carter whipped the bullocks to pull out the cart from the mud, but all was in vain. The carter then prayed to god of strength for help.

The god took pity on him. He asked him to put his shoulder to the wheel to move the cart. The Carter now realised that what was needed was his physical effort to come out of the crisis. He followed the advice of god and exerted his whole strength. The cart now moved forward.

Moral: Self-help is the best help or, Hard labor is always rewarded.

Question 9. Outlines: Hamlin, a town in Germany-increase in number of rats-people very much troubled handsome prize declared by Mayor-a piper blows magic pipe-rats followed the piper- rats drowned-prize refused-piper blows another tune children of the town followed-lost.
Answer:

Title: The Pied Piper

Once there was a great increase in the number of rats in a town named Hamlin in Germany. People were very much troubled by the rats. The Mayor was so worried that he declared a handsome prize to get rid of the rats. A piper came and blew his pipe. The rats were charmed by the sweet tune of the magic pipe and they all followed the piper.

The piper led the rats to the sea where they all drowned. When, however, the piper asked for the prize, it was refused. The piper then blew another tune. The children of the town were charmed by the sweet tune and they all followed the piper. The piper led the children to a cave and they were all lost.

Question 10. Outlines: A farrier had a goose-it laid golden eggs daily-greedy farmer cut the goose- lost everything.
Answer:

Title: The Farmer and His Goose

A farmer had a goose. It used to lay one golden egg everyday. The farmer was very glad. He sold the eggs one by one. In a short time he became a rich man. The goose was at the root of his prosperity. But the farmer gradually became very greedy.

He wanted to become richer still. He was not satisfied with one golden egg every day. Instead, he thought of getting the golden eggs from the goose all at a time. He thought by this he would become immensely rich. He was a foolish man.

He did not know that a goose can lay only one egg daily. He killed the goose. When he cut it open, he did not find any egg inside the body of the goose. He lost everything. The farmer repented his action.

Moral: Too much of greed is bad, Grasp all, lose all.

Question 11. Outlines: An old lady becomes blind-a dishonest doctor is called in-steals valuable articles of the lady-lady recovers-lady recovers refused to pay fees-doctor returns stolen goods-lady pays him moral.
Answer:

Title: The Old Lady and Her Doctor

Once an old lady became blind and called in a doctor. The doctor examined her and assured to cure her. But he demanded a large sum of money as his fees. The lady agreed to pay the amount once she was cured. While the treatment was going on, the doctor started removing valuable articles from the lady’s house one by one.

Finally, when the lady recovered, the doctor wanted his fees. The lady refused to pay the fees as she said that she had not been cured, for she could not see any of her valuable articles. The dishonest doctor could understand the lady’s mind. He returned the stolen goods and the lady then paid his fees.

Moral: Dishonesty does not pay in the long run.

Question 12. Outlines: A lion was sleeping in his dena – mouse entered into his nostril – angry lion took pity on the mouse – the lion was caught in a hunter’s net – roared-mouse cut the net – freed the lion Moral.
Answer:

Title: The Lion and The Mouse

Once a lion was sleeping in his den. A mouse, playing nearly, suddenly entered into his nostril. The lion was disturbed in his sleep. He became angry, held the mouse in his paw and was about to kill it.

The mouse begged for life. The lion took pity on the mouse and set it free. One day the lion was caught in a hunter’s net. The lion roared and tried hard to come out. But all was in vain.

The mouse, who was living nearby, heard the lion’s roar. It ran to the lion and recognised him. It bit the net with its sharp teeth and set the lion free.

Moral: A good deed has always a good return.

Question 13. Outlines: King Solomon-a wise king-the queen of Sheba heard of his wisdom-wanted to test his wisdom-came to his court with two garlands of flowers-one was real and the other artificial-king puzzled to see them opened the windows-bees swarmed into the room this helped to choose the real garland.
Answer:

Title: King Solomon’s Wisdom

King Solomon was a very famous king known for his wisdom. The queen of Sheba had heard a lot about his wisdom and wanted to test it. Once she was invited by the king to his court. The clever queen came to his court with two beautiful garlands of flowers-one real and the other artificial.

But they looked alike. She asked the king to pick up the garland of real flowers. The king was a little puzzled. Then an idea came upon his mind. He opened the windows. Bees swarmed into the room and sat on the garland made of real flowers. He could then identify the real garland easily.

The queen was deeply impressed with the king’s wisdom.

Question 14. Outlines: King Midas was greedy-prayed for a boon to get much gold-God granted his prayer everything turned into gold-he cried-God took back the boon.
Answer:

Title: King Midas’s Greed for Gold

In ancient Greece there was a king named Midas. He was very greedy. He had a great love for gold. He always wished to get as much gold as possible. One day he prayed to God for a boon that whatever he would touch should turn into gold. God granted his prayer and Midas was very happy.
Whatever he touched now turned into gold.

But when he went to eat and drink and touched his food and drinks, they at once turned into gold. When his little daughter came to him and embraced him, she also turned into gold. King Midas was very much shocked to see the lifeless gold statue of his dear daughter.

He now realised his folly. He cried and prayed to God to take back the boon. God took back his boon and Midas’s daughter was’ brought back to life. Midas promised never to hanker after gold again.

Question 15. Outlines: England at war with France-a young British sailor held by the French allowed to move about on the seacoast opposite England-got an empty barrel-made it into a boat- intention to cross over to England-detected and brought before Napoleon-said he longed to see his mother-Napoleon touched-gave him a gold coin-sent him back to England.
Answer:

Title: Napoleon and the British Sailor

Once when England was at war with France, the French army captured a young British sailor. The sailor was allowed to roam about on the shore of France opposite the English coast. One day he got an empty barrel floating in the sea.

He made it into a boat to cross over to England. But as he was about to make the attempt, he was detected and brought before Napoleon, the French emperor. He asked the sailor what had inspired him to risk his life that way.

The sailor replied that he wanted to see his mother whom he had not seen for a long time. Napoleon was very much touched at this. He offered him a piece of gold coin and sent him back to England.

Question 16. Outlines: A wolf met a healthy dog-dog spoke highly of his lot good food-kept watching only at night-wolf nearly won over-noticed a mark round the dog’s neck-mark of chain the result.
Answer:

Title: The Wolf and the Dog

One day a hungry wolf met a healthy dog by chance. As they fell into conversation, the dog spoke highly of the comforts of his life. He was the pet of his master’s family and was well fed. As to work, he had nothing to do but to guard the master’s house at night.

The wolf complained that his own lot was quiet different. He was never sure of food and often had to go without it. The dog pitied the wolf with superior air. Just then the wolf noticed a mark on the dog’s neck and wanted to know what it was. The dog replied that it was the mark of the chain in which he was kept.

The wolf then said, ‘Well, you are not free then. I no longer envy you. I prefer my freedom without food a thousand times to your well-fed comfortable life of bondage (nsit). So saying the wolf left the place.

Moral: Freedom is the most important thing in life.

Question 17. Outlines: A farmer returns home-saw a snake dies in cold- farmer brought at home – children played with it-the snake and about to bite snake was killed.
Answer:

Title: The Farmer and the Ungrateful Snake

One wintry evening a farmer was returning home after a hard day’s work. Suddenly he saw a snake lying on the ground almost dying in cold. Out of pity the farmer took it home. He gave the snake enough comfort. Very soon the snake felt better.

The children in the house liked the snake very much and started playing with it. But the snake was ungrateful and could not change its habit. One day it was about to bite them. This made the farmer very angry. He immediately killed it with a stick.

Question 18. Outlines: An old farmer-idle sons-father in death bed-wants to teach them the need of hard work-tells them about the treasures hidden in the field-song dig the ground-no hidden treasure-sow paddy-golden crop that year.
Answer:

Title: The Old Farmer and His Idle Sons

Once there was an old farmer who had several sons. They were idle in nature and did not like to work at all. The farmer was worried. One day when he became old and was in his death bed, he called all his sons.

He wanted to teach them a lesson and the need to do hard work. He told them that he had some treasures hidden in the field. Soon when the farmer died, all the sons started to dig up the ground to get the hidden treasures.

But alas! They did not get any. They became frustrated. At last, they sowed some paddy seeds in the dug-up ground. Golden crops grew that year in the field. They then realized that the hidden treasures were the golden crops. They were happy.

Moral: Hard work brings reward.

Question 19. Outlines: A farmer’s daughter going to market with a can of milk on her head-lost in daydreaming-dream of being very rich-many suitors-rejects them all-nods her head in pride-the result.
Answer:

Title: Day Dreams of a Farmer Girl

One day a farmer’s daughter was going to market with a can of milk on her head. She was of a romantic turn of mind. So while walking she was lost in daydreaming. She imagined that by selling milk every day she would earn a large sum of money.

She would then buy many more cows that would give her enough milk to make her rich. She would then build a new house for herself. Her fashionable clothes would make her look charming.

The young men in the locality would then gather round her suing for her hand. But she would reject them all, as they would be much beneath her status. So lost was the girl in her dream that she actually shook her head proudly to express her rejection.

The car on her head fell down at once, spilling the milk on the ground. The girl got a rude awakening from her foolish dream. Tears began to roll down her cheeks.

Question 20. Outlines: Two women quarrel over a child-come to court-Judge’s order to cut the child into two equal halves one gives up claim-‘do not cut the child-the other silent-Judge decided.
Answer:

Title: The Wise Judge

Once two women quarrelled over a baby. Each of them claimed it as her own. At last, they came to a judge to decide the matter. The judge heard the dispute but could not come to a decision immediately.

After some time he ordered to cut the baby into two equal halves. Each women should be given a half. One woman cried out at once, ‘Do not cut the child. Give the baby to her.’

The other woman kept silent. The Judge could understand who the real mother was. He gave the baby to the first woman and punished the second woman.

Moral: A mother always cares for the safety of her child.

Question 21. Outlines: A miser had vast wealth-converted to a lump of gold-kept it buried in the ground checked the treasure everyday by digging the earth-a thief noticed it-he dug up the earth and took away the treasure-the miser lamented the loss friends consoled he had not enjoyed the treasure-no reason to lament.
Answer:

Title: The Miser and his Lump of Gold

A miser amassed a vast wealth. He was always afraid that he might be robbed. So he went to a goldsmith and converted all his wealth and money into a big lump of gold and kept it buried under a big tree.

A thief noticed him burying the gold and planned to steal it at an opportune moment. The miser used to go to the spot every now and then and check the treasure. He buried it again under the ground.

One day he found that the earth had been dug up and the lump of gold was gone. Shocked, he began to cry lamenting over the loss of his fortune. His friends came and consoled him by saying that he lived miserly and had not enjoyed the treasure before it was stolen.

So it mattered little whether he buried a lump of gold or a piece stone inside the earth. It was all the same for him.

Moral: Wealth left unused has no value at all.

Question 22. Outlines: A rich merchant going through a deep forest with a bagful of coins-started raining blamed God for the rain-two robbers came-fired their guns at him-wet gunpowder-the merchant saved.
Answer:

Title: A Merchant and two Robbers

Once a rich merchant was going through a deep forest. He had a bagful of coins in his bag. Suddenly it started raining heavily and he took shelter under a big tree. He was drenched through and through and blamed God for the heavy rain.

Soon two robbers appeared at the spot and they threatened to kill the merchant. They fired their guns at him. But the gunpowder was so wet that the guns did not go off. The merchant was saved. He then thanked God for the rain.

Moral: God is always kind.

Question 23. Outlines: A poor woodcutter-cutting wood near a river-axe fell into the river-wept-river godess came with a golden axe-woodcutter refused-goddess came with a silver axe-woodcutter refused-goddess came with an iron’ axe-woodcutter glad-goddess gifted all the axes to the woodcutter.
Answer:

Title: The Honest Woodcutter

Once a woodcutter was cutting a branch of a tree by the side of a river. Suddenly his axe slipped off his hand and fell into the river. The woodcutter felt sad and started crying bitterly. The water goddess took pity on him.

She appeared before him and showed him a silver and a golden axe and asked which one of them was his. The woodcutter said that none of the axes belonged to him. The goddess again dived into the water and brought a common iron axe.

The woodcutter was very glad to see the axe and said that it was his own axe. The goddess was very much pleased at his honesty. She gave him all the three axes as a reward for his truthfulness.

Moral: Honesty is the best policy.

Question 24. Outlines: A woman’s son dead goes to Lord Buddha to get back life-Lord asked to bring mustard seeds from the house where none died-she went door to door-failed to get such seeds- reported to the Lord he advised.
Answer:

Title: Lord Buddha and the Woman

Once a woman lost her child. She came to Lord Buddha and prayed to him to bring back life to her dead child. The holy man told her that there was only one medicine to bring back life to her child. He advised her to bring him a handful of mustard seeds from a house where nobody had ever died.

The woman went from door to door seeking the mustard seeds. She asked at every door if anyone in the family had died. But she could not find any such house. So she could not get the mustard seeds that Lord Buddha wanted.

The poor woman then went back to Lord Buddha and told him the result of her search. Then Buddha told her tenderly not to think much of her own grief since sorrow and death are common to all. The woman realised the truth of his words and found consolation.

Moral: Sorrow and death are common to all.

Question 25. Outlines: A crow lived on a tree-a snake lived in a hole at the foot-it ate up the crow’s young ones crow stole a necklace of the prince-dropped it into the snake’s hole the king’s men traced it-dug into the hole-snake killed.
Answer:

Title: The lost Necklace and the Snake

Once there lived a crow on a tree. A venomous snake also lived in a hole at the foot of that tree. The snake used to eat up the young ones of the crow regularly. This made the crow angry. To get rid of the snake he made a plan.

He stole a necklace of the prince and dropped it into the snake’s hole. When the king’s men started to look out for the necklace, they reached the hole and traced the necklace. Immediately. they dragged out the snake, killed it and recovered the lost necklace.

Question 26. Outlines: Wind, Sun quarrel over strength-decide to test-sees man in coat-wind blows hard-man pulls coat close-sun shines brighter-man takes the coat off.
Answer:

Title: The Sun and the Wind

Once there was a dispute between the sun and the wind as to who was more powerful. They could not solve it. Suddenly they saw a man with a coat on, walking along the road. Both the sun and the wind decided that whoever would be able to remove the coat from the man’s body would be considered the more powerful. The wind was very proud of its strength.

It attempted first and started blowing harder and harder. But the man clasped the coat tightly round his body. The coat could not be taken out. Thus the wind failed. Then it was the sun’s turn. It became hotter and hotter.

The man felt very hot and at last he had to take off the coat from his body. Thus, the sun proved to be stronger than the wind. Moral: Pride must have a fall.

Question 27. Outlines: A slave in Rome-Androcles-took shelter in a cave for fear of arrest by the Emperor a lion with pain in its paw-thorn-Androcles took it out-Androcles caught by Emperor’s men-thrown into a cage of hungry lion-it licked and fawned on him.
Answer:

Title: Androcles and the Lion

There lived in Rome a slave named Androcles. Once he fled and took shelter in a forest for fear of arrest by the Emperor. One morning he saw a lion coming towards him. He was limping and seemed to be in great pain. Androcles picked up courage and went to the lion.

He examined the lion’s paw and found that a thorn had stuck deep into the paw. With great care he drew out the thorn and dressed the wound. The lion felt great relief and seemed to be grateful to Androcles.

After some days, Androcles was arrested by the Emperor’s men. He was thrown into the cage of a hungry lion as punishment. But a strange thing happened. Instead of attacking Androcles the lion lay at the feet of Androcles, licked his hands, and fawned on him. It was the very lion whose wounds Androcles had cured. The grateful lion recognised his benefactor and thus showed his gratitude.

Moral: A good work never goes unrewarded.

Question 28. Outlines: Bone stuck to a wolf’s throat-requested everyone-none came- helped-asked for reward-the wolf’s answer-moral.
Answer:

Title: The Wolf and the Crane

Once a bone stuck in the throat of a wolf. He tried his best to remove it, but could not. He offered a reward and requested everyone to help him, but none came to his help.

At last, a crane came forward and drew out the bone. When the crane asked for the reward, the ungrateful wolf refused it. He said, “You are lucky that I have not eaten you up, and that is your reward!”

Moral: Never believe a rogue:

Question 29. Outlines: Dishonest shopkeeper-weights less-customer asks why-easy for customer less to carry customer pays less-shopkeeper demands more-less to count.
Answer:

Title: The Customer and the Dishonest Shopkeeper

Once a customer went to a shop to buy some sugar. The shopkeeper was a dishonest person. He played tricks in the weight and gave him less quantity of sugar.

On being asked by the customer why he did so, the shopkeeper replied that it would be easy for him to carry less weight. The customer understood the matter.

He paid less money. The shopkeeper demanded more, but the customer reminded him that it would be easy for him to countless money.

Moral: Tit for tat

Question 30. Outlines: A proud jackdaw-dressed himself in peacock’s features-soon found out-driven away-found no place in own community.
Answer:

Title: The Foolish Jackdaw

Once there was a foolish jackdaw who was proud of his feathers. He hated to live among other jackdaws even though he has black feathers. One day he picked up beautiful feathers of a peacock’s tail and decorated himself with them.

He then walked proudly to a family of peacocks to make friends with them. But they could not be fooled. They found out his fault and drove him away. He turned to his old friends, but they also refused to take him back.

The foolish jackdaw had to live alone. Moral: Blindly imitating other leads to humiliation.

Question 31. Outlines: A dog-a piece of meat in his mouth-crosses a bridge-sees his shadow-takes it for another dog with a piece of meat in his mouth-jumps to grab the piece of meat-loses his own piece.
Answer:

Title: The Dog and His Shadow

Once a dog stole a piece of meat from a butcher’s shop. He ran away to enjoy it alone. He had to cross a bridge. While on the bridge he looked below and saw his own shadow in the water. The foolish dog thought the shadow to be another dog with a piece of meat in his mouth.

He was very greedy and wanted to have it too. So he jumped into the water and opened his mouth to grab the piece of meat. As a result his own piece of meat dropped from his mouth into the water.

Moral: Do not run after imaginary gain.

Question 32. Outlines: A cat praying on mice day and night-mice hold a meeting-a young mouse suggest that a bell be tied round the cat’s neck-sound of the bell will warn them-all mice agree-an old mouse asks who will bell the cat-all silent-plan dropped.
Answer:

Title: Mice in Council

Once there lived several mice in a house. They were always in fear of a cat that lived in the same house. It used to attack the mice and often killed them. The mice did not know what to do, for nobody was sure when the cat would come. So, one day they called a meeting to find a way out of the danger. They went on discussing the situation for several hours, but there was no solution.

At last one young mouse stood up and said, ‘Let us tie a bell around the cat’s neck. It will ring at every step when the cat moves. We will then run away.’ The mice jumped up in joy at this idea. Then an old mouse slowly got up and said, ‘It is a very good idea indeed. But who will bell the cat?’ There was no reply. No one came forward to tie the bell.

Moral: It is very easy to say but difficult to do.

Question 33. Outlines: A cap-seller-lies with his cap on-tired-falls asleep some monkeys living in the tree sees him-comes down-each wears a cap-cap-seller gets up, sees him them-tries to get back caps but fails – throws his cap down in frustration-monkeys imitate his action- cap-seller happily collects the caps.
Answer:

Title: The Cap-seller and the Monkeys

Once a cap seller was walking around to sell his caps. He had to move about in the sun, so he was tired. He lay under the shade of a tree for rest and soon he fell fast asleep. He lay with his cap on. Besides this cap he had with him a few other caps for sale.

Some monkeys living in the tree noticed this. They came down, stole the caps and wore them on the head: When the cap-seller woke up, he found that all his caps were gone. He looked up and found the monkeys wearing his caps.

He was in great despair as it was not possible for him to catch the monkeys. At last he hit upon a plan. He knew that monkeys are fond of imitating others. So he threw his own cap down in frustration. The monkeys noticed this. They also did the same thing. The cap-seller then collected the caps happily.

Question 34. Outlines: A shepherd boy used to tend a flock of sheep-cried “Wolf! Wolf!” for fun– villagers rushed-no wolf-one day really a wolf attacked-the boy cried, “Save me ! Wolf! Wolf!” no one came-wolf killed him.
Answer:

Title: The Shepherd Boy and the Wolf

A shepherd boy tended a flock of sheep near a forest. One day he cried, “Wolf, Wolf!” The villagers. rushed to help him. But they found no wolf. The boy made a fun of them. This he did for several days. Every time the villagers came to help him and they were fooled. They became angry with him. One day a wolf really came. The boy cried, “Wolf! Wolf!” in fear. But nobody came to his help. The wolf killed the boy.

Moral: Nobody believes a liar.

Question 35. Outlines: A bee was carried off by a stream- a dove dropped a leaf- saved it- aimed at the dove-the bee stung him he missed the aim-the dove was saved.
Answer:

Title: The Bee and the Dove

A bee by chance fell into a stream. The current swept it forward and its life was in danger. A dove lived on a tree by the side of the stream. It took pity on it. It threw a leaf at the bee. The bee got on it and swam to the bank. Its life was saved, and for this it thanked the dove. Some days later, the bee saw a hunter aiming an arrow at the dove. The grateful bee flew up to the hunter and stung him hard on his leg. The hunter missed his aim. The dove flew away and was saved.

Moral: Kindness never goes unrewarded.

Reporting Conversations And Events

Question 1.

Amal: Shall we take a taxi or a bus to go to the exhibition?

Subir: It would be better if we take a bus.

Amal: Shall we go to the next bus stop? That is the terminus. There we would get vacant seats..

Subir: Yes, yes, that’s a good idea.

Read And Learn Also WBBSE Solutions For Class 8 English

You are Amal. Report the above conversation in your own language.

Answer:

I asked Subir if we should take a taxi or a bus to go to the exhibition. Subir suggested that a bus would be better. I proposed to go to the terminus at the next bus stop where we could get vacant seats. Subir readily agreed.

Question 2.

Dulal: Well, Santosh, why are you in such a hurry?

Santosh: I am going to the doctor.

Dulal: Doctor Why?

Santosh: My sister is ill.

Dulal: What is she suffering from?

Santosh: She is running a temperature for the last few days.

Dulal: I hope the case is not serious. Well, I must not detain you any longer. Goodbye.

You are Dulal. Narrate the conversation in your own language.
Answer:

Yesterday I met Santosh. He was in a great hurry. I came to know from him that he was going to a doctor as his sister was running a temperature for the last few days. I consoled him saying that the case might not be serious. I did not detain him and bade him goodbye.

Question 3.

Davy: Do you have any trade now, Mr Faraday?

Faraday: Yes, sir, I am now a bookbinder.

Davy: Do you like to change it?

Faraday: Certainly, I like so

Davy:  Why?

Report the above conversation.
Answer:

Davy asked Faraday if had any trade then. Faraday said that he was then a book binder. On being asked if he wanted to change it. Faraday eagerly expressed his desire to do so. Davy asked him the reason for it.

Question 4. The following conversation took place between D and K on 1-9-95. D writes reports for the school notice board. He reports this news about Shantanu Roy. Write out what he writes.

D-Shantanuda has stood third in the Joint Entrance Examination this year.

K-Who is Shantanuda?

D-An ex-student of our school. He passed the H. S. Examination held in 1995.

K-Is he the first student of the town to have secured such a position?

D-That’s right. We are proud of him.

K-Did you know him before?

D-Not exactly. I came to know of him from my teacher.

K-What sort of a student was he?

D-Brilliant. As a boy he was shy, soft-spoken, simple-minded and determined to learn.

Answer: An Achievement

Students will be glad to learn that Sri Shantanu Roy, an ex-student of our school has stood third in the Joint Entrance Examination this year. He is the first student of this town to secure such a high position.

Shantanu passed the H. S. Examination from our school in 1995. He was a brilliant student. Though a bit shy, soft-spoken and simple-minded, he learnt his studies with determination. We are all proud of him.

Question 5. Report the following:

Swallow: Who are you?

The Statue: I am the Happy Prince.

Swallow: Why are you weeping then? You have quite drenched me.

Answer:

In reply to Swallow’s question as to who he was, the Statue said that he was the Happy Prince. The Swallow then asked him why he was weeping and further added that he had quite drenched him (the Swallow).

Question 6. Write a report using the following points.

Place of incident: Kukrahati near Haldia in Midnapore

Date: June 6.

Incident: Boat capsized in the Hooghly-50 feared dead – 11 bodies recovered so far of them 7 women, 2 children-30 passengers swam ashore.

Cause: Stoppage of regular ferry service boat carrying passenger beyond capacity.

Effect of the incident: Local people angry-rcad blockade put up in protest.

Answer:

A serious boat disaster took place yesterday when an overloaded boat capsized in the river Hooghly at Kukrahati near Haldia in Midnapur. 50 people were reported drowned. 11 bodies have been recovered so far out of which 7 were women and 2 children. 30 persons swam ashore.

According to local information, the stoppage of regular ferry service was the cause of the disaster. The boat was loaded with passengers far beyond its capacity. Angry people put up a road blockade for about 3 hours to air their protest.

Question 7. Write a report using the following points:

Date and time: 2nd October, evening.

Place: Agarpara on B. T. Road.

Incident: A lorry collided with a bus.

Number killed: 2 persons.

Injured: 10 persons including 3 children.

Cause: Speeding lorry tried to overtake the bus collision.

Effect: Injured persons taken to hospital- lorry driver arrested.

Answer:

A serious accident took place on the evening of 2nd October when a lorry collided with a bus at Agarpara on B. T. Road. It is reported that the accident occurred when the lorry, in trying to overtake the bus, lost control and rammed against the bus.

As a result, 2 persons were killed on the spot and 10 persons including 3 children were injured. The injured persons were immediately taken to a nearby hospital. Conditions of three of them are stated to be serious. The police arrested the lorry driver.

Question 8. Write a report on the flood situation following the outlines given:

Date: 12th to 15th August.

Place: Basjhora, Rampur, Khairakuri, Amjora in the District of Birbhum.

Cause:

1. Heavy rainfall for 4 days.
2. River Mayurakshi overflowed.

Damage caused: About 10 thousand people suffered – no death-domestic animals lost crops were damaged.

Rescue and relief work: The government, welfare societies and general public helped the flood-affected people distributed food and clothing.

Answer:

A devastating flood submerged vast areas of Basjhora, Rampur, Khairakuri, and Amjora blocks of the Birbhum District. This was a sequel to the heavy rain that continued for 4 days from 12th to the 15th of August.

The discharge was so heavy that the river Mayurakshi overflowed its banks and submerged large areas on both the sides. The flood caused heavy damage. About 10 thousand people were affected by this.

Mud houses collapsed and standing crops were badly damaged. A large number of domestic animals were washed away. No death has so far been reported. Rescue and relief works were taken up by the Government in full swing.

Food, drinking water and clothing were distributed among the flood-stricken people. Different welfare societies and the general public have joined in this relief operation.

Letter Writing

লক্ষ্য করলে দেখবে চিঠি সব এক রকমের হয় না। মোটামুটিভাবে চিঠিপত্র তিন ধরনের হতে পারে। যথা :

Read And Learn Also WBBSE Solutions For Class 8 English

1. ব্যক্তিগত (Private or Personal) চিঠি — সাধারণত আত্মীয়স্বজন ও বন্ধুবান্ধবদের নিকট লেখা চিঠি।
2. সরকারি (Official) চিঠি — সরকারি বা বেসরকারি অফিস সংক্রান্ত চিঠি।
3. কাজকর্ম সংক্রান্ত (Business or Commercial ) চিঠি – ব্যবসায়- সংক্রান্ত চিঠি ।

Note: এগুলি ছাড়াও Social letters ও Letter to the Press আছে। প্রথমটি সামাজিক চিঠি ও দ্বিতীয়টি সংবাদপত্রে প্রকাশের জন্য চিঠি। এবিষয়ে তোমরা পরে পড়বে।

Letter Writing Private Letters

Private চিঠি কীভাবে লিখতে হয় নীচে তার একটি উদাহরণ দেওয়া হল :

1(Heading)
135, Regent Estate,
Kolkata-700092,
28th December, 2011.

2(Salutation).
My dear Rathin,

3(Body of the letter)

I reached here safely yesterday. The compartment was rather empty, so I had quite a comfortable sleep all night.

My school sits at 10 a.m. and I have to walk a long distance. I shall, therefore, stop here for the present.

With best wishes,

4(Subscription) → Your sincerely,

5(Signature) → Kanai

6(Superscription) or, (Outside address)

উপরের চিঠি হতে জানা যায় যে একটি চিঠির সাধারণত ছয়টি অংশ থাকে, যথা—

1. Heading,
2. Salutation,
3. Body of the letter,
4. Subscription,
5. Signature, ও
6. Superscription. Or, Outside address.

1. Heading ( শিরোনাম )

এটা চিঠির প্রথম পৃষ্ঠায় উপরিভাগে লেখকের ঠিকানা ও তাহার নীচে চিঠি লেখার তারিখ। তারিখ ছাড়া কখনও চিঠি লিখবে না।

ঠিকানায় প্রতি লাইনের প্রথম অক্ষরটি Capital Letter হয়। ঠিকানা লিখতে comma (, ) full stop (.) ইত্যাদির ব্যবহারের কড়াকড়ি আজকাল কিছুটা শিথিল হয়েছে। নীচে ঠিকানা ও তারিখ লিখবার কয়েক রকম উদাহরণ লক্ষ্য করো :

1. 135, Regent Estate,
   Kolkata – 700092.
   28th December, 2004
2. P.O. Bolpur,
   Dist. Birbhum.
   PIN. 731204
   June 15, 2004
3. 135, Regent Estate
   Kolkata – 700092.
   28th December 2004
4. P.O. Bolpur
   Dist. Birbhum
   PIN. 731204
   15-June, 2004

2. Salutation (সম্বোধন )

Heading-এর নীচে কাগজের বামদিকে এক লাইনে এই salutation লেখা হয়। প্রাপকের সাথে লেখকের সম্পর্ক অনুসারে এই সম্বোধন বিভিন্ন রকমের হতে পারে, যেমন—

1. আত্মীয়স্বজন ও ঘনিষ্ঠ বন্ধুর নিকট
   • My dear Son / son,
   • My dear Mother / mother,
   • My dear Father / father,
   • My dear Sister / sister, My dear Brother / brother,
   • My dear Ramesh,
2. সাধারণ পরিচিত লোকের নিকট
   • My dear Mr Bose,
3. অল্প পরিচিত লোকের নিকট
   • Dear Mr Bose,

Note: লক্ষ্য কোরো salutation এর পরে comma (,) বসে।

3. Body of the Letter (মূল চিঠি )

এটা চিঠির বক্তব্য বিষয়। মূল চিঠি সর্বদা salutation-এর দ্বিতীয় word-টির সামান্য নীচে হতে আরম্ভ হয়, এবং প্রথম অক্ষরটি সর্বদা capital letter হয়ে থাকে। বড়ো লেখা হলে ভিন্ন ভিন্ন paragraph -এ ভাগ করে লেখা হয়।

Note: লক্ষ্য কোরো, মূল চিঠির শেষে With best wishes With regards, With love, ইত্যাদি লিখলে এদের শেষ word-টির শেষে comma (,) থাকে।

4. Subscription (উপসংহার )

5. Signature (স্বাক্ষর)

প্রাপকের সাথে লেখকের সম্পর্ক অনুসারে উপসংহার-এ স্বাক্ষর বিভিন্ন রকমের হয়, যেমন-

Subscription: Your affectionate son, or father, or friend, etc.

Signature: কেবলমাত্র, Kanu, Ram, etc.

আত্মীয়স্বজন
ও
ঘনিষ্ঠ বন্ধুর নিকট

Letter Writing Official Letter (সরকারি চিঠি)

অফিস সংক্রান্ত যাবতীয় চিঠিপত্রই Official letters । নীচে একটি Official চিঠির নমুনা দেওয়া হল ঃ

Application for Leave of Absence

The Headmaster
Rampur High School
Rampur

Sir,

As I was attacked with a fever, I could not attend school on Monday last. I would request you kindly to grant me leave of absence for that day.

Rampur
November 19, 2011

Yours obediently,
Suresh Chandra Dutta
Class 8, Roll No. 3

Note:

1. অফিস সংক্রান্ত চিঠিতে প্রথমে প্রাপকের নাম ও ঠিকানা চিঠির প্রথম পৃষ্ঠার উপরের দিকে দিতে হয়।
2. লক্ষ্য কোরো সরকারি চিঠিতে heading, অর্থাৎ ‘লেখকের ঠিকানা ও চিঠি লেখার তারিখ চিঠির নীচের স্বাক্ষরের বাঁদিকে থাকে।
3. গুরুশিষ্য সম্পর্কীয় চিঠিতে বয়োজ্যেষ্ঠকে সম্বোধন করতে Sir বা Madam এবং উপসংহারে Yours obediently বা Yours most obediently লেখা হয়। স্বাক্ষরে পুরা নাম এবং তার নীচে ছাত্রের নিজ শ্রেণির উল্লেখ করা হয়। কিন্তু সাধারণ সরকারি চিঠিতে অপরিচিত লোককে salutation-এ Sir, Madam, Dear Sir অথবা Dear Madam এবং subscription -এ Yours faithfully লেখা হয়। Signature-এ পুরা নাম থাকে।
4. Official চিঠিতে কখনো কোনো অবান্তর কথা লিখতে হয় না। মূল বক্তব্যগুলি সাজিয়ে সংক্ষেপে লিখতে হয়।
5. চিঠির ভাষায় আন্তরিকতা থাকলেও formal হওয়া বাঞ্ছনীয়।

Letter Writing Specimen Letters

Official Letters:

1. Your father has been transferred to some other place. Write a letter to your Headmaster asking for a transfer certificate.

The Headmaster
Naihati Boys’ High School.
Naihati

Sir,

Father has recently been transferred to Murshidabad. So, I shall have to leave this school very soon.

I, therefore, request you to issue me a transfer certificate at an early date. For your information, I have already paid my tuition fee for this month and have returned the books I had borrowed earlier from the school library.

Naihati
3rd June 2009

Yours obediently,
Sanat Sarkar
Class 8, B
Roll No. 8

2. Your sister’s marriage has been settled. Write an application to your Headmaster for granting you leave of absence.

The Headmaster
Raina High School
Raina

Sir,

The wedding ceremony of my sister comes off on Monday next (the 14th June). This will obviously keep me very busy at home for some days.

I, therefore, request you to grant me leave of absence for four days from 13th to 16th June.

Raina
11th June 2009

Yours obediently, Siddhartha Roy
Class 8, A
Roll No. 5

3. Write an application to your Headmaster praying for leave of absence for a few days owing to your illness.

The Headmaster,
R. K. Mission Boys’ Home High School,
Rahara, North 24 Parganas.

Sir,

I beg to state that I was laid up with fever last week. So I could not attend school for five days from 5th to 9th of May.

I, therefore, pray to you to grant me leave of absence for those 5 days.

Rahara,
10 th May, 2011

Your obedient pupil,
Partha Sarkar
Class 8, Sec A

4. Write an application to your Headmaster asking his permission to leave the school early on account of your illness.

The Headmaster,
Kalidhan Institution,
Kolkata-700 026.

Sir,

Most respectfully I beg to state that I feel very unwell on coming to school and I am quite unable to continue attending the class.

I, therefore, pray to you to permit me to leave the school early and allow Sandip to escort (সঙ্গে লইয়া যাওয়া) me home.

Kolkata,
5th June, 2011

Yours obediently,
Sunil Roy
Class 8, Sec B

5. Write an application for a school holiday.

The Inspector of Schools,
Burdwan Division,
Burdwan

Sir,

We, the students of N. J. High School, Burdwan, beg most respectfully to request you to grant us one day’s holiday in honour of your kind visit to our institution.

Burdwan
4th March, 2009

Yours obediently,
Students of N. J. High School

6. Write an application to the Headmaster for introduction of computer course in your school.

14th April, 2010

The Headmaster,
R.K. Mission Boys’ Home High School,
Rahara.

Sir,

I beg to state that computer is the latest scientific miracle. It finds its application in every walk of modern day life. From writing documents to sending them to far off places instantly we need the help of a computer. For storing data it is widely used in schools, colleges, offices, banks, airlines, shops, laboratories, hospitals and libraries. It is, therefore, very necessary that students should have elementary knowledge of computers from the school stage.

I would request you to arrange introduction of computer course in our school.

Yours obediently,
Sunit Roy
Class 8

7. Write a letter to your Headmaster requesting him to allow you to organise a debate competition in your school.

The Headmaster,
Hooghly Collegiate School,
Hooghly.

Sir,

We beg to inform you that we wish to organise a debate competition in our school. Debates stimulate the power of thinking of a person. It trains us to be effective speakers and to develop the habit of making extempore speeches. In a debate, we have to be able to speak on different points and counter points with convincing arguments. To acquire mastery over these, a good deal of training and practice is necessary. With this aim in view, we wish to organise a debate competition in our school on Tuesday, the 8th next. We shall be obliged if you kindly accord your kind permission for that.

1st March, 2007

Yours obediently,
S. Roy Secretary,
Students’ Union.

8. Your club wants to play a friendly football match with another club. Write a letter to the club inviting them.

The Secretary
Udayan Sangha
Bagha Jatin Palli
Kolkata-700 086

Dear Sir,

The members of our club desire to play a friendly football match with your club on 24th June at 4-30 p.m. in our ground. Kindly let me know at an early date if you can accept the proposal.

I am expecting a positive response from you.

Thanking you,

5/1, Sree Colony
Kolkata-700 092
13th June, 2010

Yours faithfully,
Rathin Kundu Secretary
Santi Sporting Club

9. You want to purchase some books. Write a letter to a book-seller placing some order.

The Manager,
Calcutta Book House Pvt. Ltd,
1/1, Bankim Chatterjee Street,
Kolkata-700 073.

Sir,

I shall be obliged if you kindly send me one copy of each of following books per V.P.P. at an early date:

List of books:

1. A New Course on English (For Class 6) by P. K. De Sarkar-1 copy
2. A New Course on Madhyamik English (for Classes 9 and 10) by P. K. De Sarkar-1 copy
3. A New Step to Geography (for Class 8) by Prof. K. Bose-1 copy

12th March, 2009
9, Chelliadanga Road,
P. O. Asansol,
Dt. Burdwan.

Yours faithfully,
Swapan Ghosh

Letter Writing Private Letters

1. Write a letter to your friend telling him how you spent the Puja holidays.

523, Jodhpur Park
Kolkata-700 068
27th Oct, 2010

My dear Bappa,

Perhaps you have received the picture postcard I had sent to you from Puri. During the last Puja vacation, I spent most of the time at home in Kolkata. The four days of the Durga Puja were very enjoyable. I went round the city and visited the puja pandals with my friends. The beautiful pandals, their decorations and the idols of the goddess Durga were simply charming. After the Puja, we went to Puri and spent a few days there. Visits to the Jagannath Temple, Konarak Mandir and sea bathing were special attractions there. Back home, we celebrated the Kali Puja and the Dewali with much funfare: I had a really free time during the Puja vacation. I read many good books and ate a lot. Studies were also taken care of. I enjoyed the Puja vacation very much.

Hope this finds you well.

Yours ever,
Siddharta

2. The examination results have been just out. Write a letter to your friend enquiring about his results in the examination.

Ambagan
P. O. Maldah
24th March, 2010

My dear Santi,

I hope this letter will find you in good health. Perhaps you will be glad to know that I got 71% marks in the last annual examination. Unfortunately, I could not secure any position. What about you? I heard that you fell ill before the examination, but I am sure, you have done well. I am anxious to know about your results.

Please drop me a letter at your earliest.

Yours ever,
Bhanu

3. You want to buy some books for you. Write a letter to your father asking for some money to buy the books.

Students’ Hostel
B. D. Memorial School Pratapgarh
24-Parganas (South)
2nd Nov, 2009

My dear Father,

Our examination results are just out and you will be glad to learn that I have secured over 72% marks in the examination. My teachers are very happy at my performance.

However, our mathematics teacher has advised me to buy two books on mathematics. He hopes, these will help me to further improve my results.

As the two books will cost around rupees seventy five, I request you kindly to send me the amount as soon as possible.

I hope everyone at home is in good health. With regards to you and mummy,

Yours affectionately,
Ratna

4. You are going on a holiday soon. Write a letter to your friend inviting him to enjoy the summer holidays with you.

21/1, S. P. Mukherjee Road,
Kolkata-700 026.
11th May, 2011

My dear Kanu,

I shall go to Darjeeling with my parents to enjoy the summer holidays there. We shall start in the first week of June and hope to stay there for two weeks. We have also planned to visit Kalimpong and Gangtok during this period. Will you join us to spend the holidays there? We shall be very glad if you accompany us. Please reply immediately.

With best wishes,

Yours ever,
Sumit

5. You are very fond of stamps and have started collecting them. Write a letter to your friend requesting him to collect some stamps for you.

P. O. Berhampur
12th May, 2010

My dear Ashis,

Perhaps you will be glad to know that I have taken up a hobby- the hobby of collecting stamps. I have already collected stamps of different countries.

I remember that your brother often gets foreign stamps in his office. Could you get some for me? I would be glad to exchange some duplicates lying with me.

With best wishes,

Ever yours,
Anju

6. Write a letter to your friend giving him an account of your first day at school.

Burdwan
5th May, 2009

My dear Anil,

The memory of my first day at school is quite fresh in my mind. Father took me to the Headmaster who directed me to my class. It was class 3 to which I had been admitted the previous day. As I took seat in the class, a number of boys gathered around and made enquiries about me. I was a little nervous at first, but soon I began to feel quite at ease. The bell rang and a teacher entered the class. We all stood up. He smiled a little and bade us sit down. As his eyes fell upon me, he came up and asked me my name. He then cheered me with a few words. During the tiffin time, I joined the boys playing in the school compound. I returned home with a pleasant mind.

Hope you are keeping well.

With love,

Yours ever,
Subhas

7. Write a letter to a friend inviting him to join a picnic you are going to arrange.

14, Shyama Pally,
Kolkata-700 032.
3rd Dec., 2009

My dear Sanjoy,

You will be glad to know that we have arranged a picnic on next Sunday, the 14th Dec. at Diamond Harbour. There will be in all about 20 persons in the party. Many of our friends will join the picnic. We shall start from Kolkata at about 7.30 in the morning by a chartered bus. We shall spend the whole day at Diamond Harbour at a suitable place by the riverside. Arrangements for cooking of food and playing music have been made. We would like to have you with us. There will be lots of fun for the whole day and I am sure you will enjoy the outing.

Awaiting a positive reply,

Yours ever,
Sushanta

8. Write a letter to a friend telling him how you enjoyed a picnic.

23, Kalighat Road,
Kolkata-700 026.
21st Dec, 2010

My dear Bimal,

Last Sunday I and some of my friends went to a picnic at Diamond Harbour. We started from the club premises at 7 a.m. in a luxury bus and reached there by 10 a.m. A site near the embankment was selected. It was cleared, and then we had breakfast with cakes, sweets and tea. After breakfast began the work of preparing the meals. We took two cooks from Kolkata and everything was done by them. While the cooking was going on, we had several rounds of tea and pakoras. Benu and Saroj entertained us by singing popular songs. We also enjoyed the music played in my cassette player. At 2 p.m. we had our lunch which comprised rice, dal, vegetable curry, fish curry, meat korma, chutney and sweets. They were well cooked and we relished the items greatly. After some rest we took a walk along the embankment. We also had a short boat trip on the Ganga. We started for the return journey at 5.30 p.m. and reached home by 8 p. m. We enjoyed the picnic very much.

Yours ever,
Subir

9. Write a letter to your friend inviting him to your birthday party.

10. This is Indranath’s reply to Animesh’s letter. Now write within 80 words what Animesh had written to Indranath.

105, R. P. Road,
P. O. Uttarpara,
Dt. Hooghly.
20th May 2009

My dear Indranath,

Our Summer vacation commences on the 6th of June and I have planned to go to Nainital with some of my friends. It will be very nice if you join us in the excursion. Nainital will be very pleasant at this time of the year and I hope we shall have an enjoyable trip.

Please drop me a line about your decision.

Yours ever,
Animesh

11. Write a letter to your friend inviting him on the occasion of the marriage of your sister.

Accepting letter to your friend inviting him on the occasion of the marriage of your sister

12. Your school had organised an excursion. You joined the excursion. Now write a letter to your brother describing it.

19, College Street
Kolkata-700 073
3rd December 2008

My dear brother,

Last weekend our school organised an excursion to Santiniketan by bus. I also joined the party. We left Kolkata at 6 o’clock in the morning. It took us five hours to reach there. It was a beautiful place. I was charmed to see young schoolchildren attending their classes in the shades under big trees, sitting at the feet of their teachers. It was green all around. The atmosphere was very calm and peaceful. We went round the whole compass. We also visited Uttarayan and several other buildings associated with the memory of Tagore. Special mention must be made of Kala Bhavan and China Bhavan where we noticed students learning their lessons with deep devotion. It was a really good educational trip, and I enjoyed it.

How are you? How is Mother? I hope to visit home by the end of this month.

With regards,

Yours truly.
Gopal

13. Write a letter to your friend, telling him how you like to pass the ensuing Christmas- holidays.

15/2, Fern Road
Kolkata-700 019
26th Nov 2008

My dear Kumkum,

Our Christmas holidays commence on the 24th of next month. I have planned to visit Delhi and the nearby areas with my parents and my brother Rabin during this holiday. He is also having a holiday at that time. We shall first go to Delhi, and visit the interesting places there. Our next programme would be at Agra where we can see the Tajmahal and the Fort which are famous tourist spots. From Agra we shall proceed to Jaipur and stay there for three days. We can see the splendour of the famous buildings like City Palace, Amber Palace and Hawa Mahal. Besides, there are the Jantar Mantar, Museum, Sishodia Gardens, etc. This visit will give us an idea of the Royal grandeurs of the old days. We plan to return to Kolkata direct from Jaipur. I feel we shall have a nice time during the holidays.

Hope you are keeping well. With love,

Yours ever,
Sabita

14. Write a letter to your friend living abroad telling him about Durga Puja, the greatest festival of the Bengalees. Draw an envelop and address it to your friend.

135, Regent Estate
Kolkata-700 092
India 9th Sept 2010

My dear Arnold,

I received your letter yesterday. You wanted to know about the Durga Puja in Kolkata. The Durga Puja is the greatest festival of the Bengalees. It is observed in autumn which falls in the months of September and October. In this festival, the goddess Durga and her children Kartick, Ganesh, Lakshmi and Saraswati are worshipped. The goddess is the symbol of strength and power. The Durga Puja festival symbolises the victory of good over evil.
During the Puja days, which usually spans over 3 to 4 days, the deities are worshipped with great pomp and solemnity. Pandals are nicely decorated and illuminated. Thousands of men, women and children attired in colourful dresses take part in the festival. The images are immersed on the fourth day. Schools, colleges, offices remain closed during the period. The festival brings joy and happiness to everybody. We all wait eagerly for these days once every year.

Hope you are keeping well.

Yours sincerely,
Parimal

15. Bimal received a letter from his friend Amal and here is his reply. Now, write the letter that Bimal received.

P.O. Berhampore
Dt. Murshidabad
25th August 2009

Dear Amal,

I received your letter in time. I am glad to know that you want to visit Murshidabad in the last week of October. I shall be there at that time. So, you need not worry. I shall take you to the different places of interest in Murshidabad and I am sure you will enjoy the trip. Please let me know the exact date of your arrival. More when we meet.

With love,

Yours ever,
Bimal

Answer:

Amal Roy
C/O, Sri P. K. Roy
16/2, R. Mukherjee Road
Kolkata-700 069
16th August 2009

My dear Bimal,

Our class test will be over by the end of October, and I wish to visit Murshidabad for a few days after that. I heard that Murshidabad has many interesting tourist spots and I would like to visit them. Will you be at Behrampur then to accompany me?

I shall be glad to hear from you and shall finalise the programme after receiving your letter.

Hope you are keeping well.

With love,

Yours ever,
Amal

16. Write a letter to your friend describing the Annual Sports of your school.

P. O. Behrampur
Dt. Murshidabad
14th Jan., 2006

My dear Ashok,

The annual sports of our school was held on Sunday last at the parade ground. There were many interesting events like 100 m. race, high jump, long jump, relay race, cycle race, etc. The orange race and sack race for the juniors were the most interesting ones. I took part in 100 m. race and high jump and came second in 100 m. race.

There was great excitement among the students. The teachers also encouraged us very much. The tug-of-war between the students and teachers was enjoyed by all. The teachers won the event. The last item was go-as-you-like. The principal of the local college gave away the prizes.

Hope you are keeping well. With love and best wishes,

Yours truly,
Pradip

17. Write a letter to your friend requesting him to spend a week with you at your village home after the annual examination.

8, College Street
Kolkata-700 073
9th March, 2006

My dear Ramen,

I received your letter yesterday. My annual examination will be over by the 20th of this month and I leave for home that very night. Perhaps your annual examination also ends about that time. What is your plan for the holidays? I earnestly request you to come with me to my family at Maldah and spend a week with us. Maldah has many attractions of its own. The ruins of Gour and Pandu are very close to the present town. I shall also take you to Ramkeli, sacred to the memory of lord Sri Chaitanya and the devout brothers, Rupa and Sanatan. They will take you back to the glorious days of Bengal’s past. I have also some friends there. So you will not feel lonely in your new surroundings. In the family too you will not feel ill at ease. My younger brother and sister will like your company. I, therefore, hope you will not decline my request.

Please accept my best wishes and convey regards to your parents.

Ever yours,
Mihir

18. Write a letter to your friend congratulating him on his success in the examination.

Jalpaiguri
15th May, 2011

My dear Pabitra,

I have just learnt of your result in the Annual Examination. My hearty congratulations on your standing first in the examination. You also stood first in all the terminal examinations securing highest marks in all the subjects. This is a great achievement, no doubt. I am really very proud of you and so must be all your friends and relatives. I am sure the result will hearten you to do better in the Madhyamik Examination. You should not be self-complacent and must still try to improve your performance in future.

I am pretty well. I wish you a long and happy life.

Yours sincerely,
Riten

19. Write a letter to your friend telling him how you celebrated the 64th Independence Day in your school.

Burdwan
18th August, 2011

My dear Arun,

The 64th Independence Day was celebrated in our school on Sunday last. The function started in the morning with hoisting of the National Flag by our Headmaster. This was followed by singing of the National Anthem. The Headmaster then gave a short speech stating the importance of the occasion and remembering the great sacrifices made by the freedom fighters. The great advances made by India in different fields such as science, agriculture, industry and commerce during the last 64 years were highlighted by him. But he pointed out that still a lot remains to be done in the field of education, health and family welfare.

He told us about our responsibility as free citizens of India to build a prosperous nation. In the evening, a function was held in the school hall. The students took part in it and sang patriotic songs. The day reminded us of the great task lying ahead of us.

Hope you are keeping well.

Yours ever,
Sanjit

20. Write a letter to your friend giving him a description of the Saraswati Puja and the cultural programme held on that occasion at your school.

25, Raipur Road
Kolkata-700032
15.2.08

My dear Anjan,

You will be glad to know that we celebrated Saraswati Puja at our school in a grand manner. The school hall was nicely decorated with flowers and coloured papers. Beautiful lighting arrangements were also made. The puja was performed in the morning. We offered prayer and took prasad. In the evening a cultural programme was held. Some students sang Rabindrasangeet. Then a drama was performed by the students and it was a grand success. Some two hundred students and their guardians were present on the occasion. The function ended at 10 p.m. I enjoyed the day very much. Hope to here from you soon.

My best wishes to all of you.

Yours ever,
Rohan

21. Write a letter to your friend telling him about the memorable day in your life.

3/2, S.N. Bose Road
13, Chinsurah
4th Dec, ’10

My dear Sukumar,

Received your letter yeasterday. You wanted to know about the most memorable day of my life.

Well, a thing which is sweet lasts long in our memory. Last year, one day after I had returned home in the afternoon, my sister came running to me. She was very excited and handed over to me a letter which had just arrived. Lo and behold! It carried the news of my receiving the National Talent Search Scholarship. My joy then knew no bounds. Even though I expected it, I was not very sure of it. Everybody in the house was very happy. My parents blessed me and urged me to do still better in future. It was the happiest and most memorable day in my life. I was charged with a feeling of great. encouragement to achieve greater success in life.

I am fine. Hope this will find you in good health.

Yours truly,
Ratan

22. Write a letter to your brother about the harmful effect of smoking.

135, Regent Estate,
Kolkata-700092.
5th Aug., 2010

Dear Sandip,

Received your letter. I am glad to know that you have stopped smoking recently. Smoking is harmful to one’s health. It causes diseases like asthma, sore throat and even lung cancer. Even nonsmokers who spend a considerable time in the vicinity of smokers and inhale smoke are not spared. Realising the danger of smoking, an exhaustive campaign against smoking has already been started all over the world. Even selling tobacco products to anyone under 18 years is prohibited by law in many countries. Nowadays smoking in cinema halls, buses, trains and even in any public places is prohibited. A recent move has also been undertaken to prohibit display of smoking scenes in pictures or TV serials. The sooner people become conscious of the bad effect of smoking the better it is. I am so happy to learn that you have got rid of the harmful habit.

Hope you are keeping well.

Yours affectionately,
Partha

23. Write a letter to your father about your preparation. for the Annual Examination.

1/5, Beltala Road
Kolkata-700025
12th Sept., 2011

My dear Father,

I do not hear from you for a long time. Hope you and mother are keeping well. My annual examination comes off in the second week of Dec. next. The preparations have been quite satisfactory and I am confident of doing well in the annual examination. I have taken special care about English in which I could not do so well in the half-yearly examination. I have also practised solving question banks on mathematics, physical science, geography and history. This has helped me to prepare the subjects thoroughly and answer the questions in a proper way. You need not at all worry about my preparations this time. I am sure you will be pleased with my performance.
I am well. Please accept my regards. Love to mother.

Yours ever,
Sandip

24. The following advertisement appeared in The Telegraph on March 10, 2009.

Write an application expressing your willingness to take part in the contest.

CJ-264, Salt Lake,
Kolkata-700 091.
19th March, 2003

The Secretary,
Lake Town Youth Club,
Lake Town,
Kolkata-700 089

Sir,

I am writing this in response to your advertisement in The Telegraph of the 10th instant. I wish to compete in the Rabindra Sangeet. I would, therefore, request you to enlist my name.

I am a student of class 8 of Bidhannagar H. S. School. A certificate from my Headmaster in support of my candidature is enclosed.

Yours faithfully,
Protul Roy

25. The students of your class are going for a two days’ excursion by a reserved bus. Your class teacher will lead the team. You want to join the excursion. Write a letter to your father secking his permission. (Mention money required, the place and date, etc.)

16B, Rathtala Lane,
Maldah 14th November, 2009

My dear Father,

You will be glad to learn that an educational excursion to Murshidabad has been arranged for the students of our class on 3rd December next. The tour will be for two days. A private luxury bus has already been booked for this purpose. Sri Ajoy Samanta, our class teacher, will lead the team. All the students of our class will join the tour. It will be a very nice trip which will take us round the places of historical interest in Murshidabad.

I would request you to permit me to join the excursion. I would also request you to remit Rs.150/- to meet the expenses.

Hope you are all keeping well. Please accept my regards.

Yours affectionately,
Gargi

26. The advertisement appeared in The Statesman on February 20, 2008. Write an application in response to it. If you find any important information missing in the advertisement, mention it in your application. You may participate in one of the contests only.

AB 93, Salt Lake
Kolkata-700 091
February 25, 2008

The Secretary, Rotary Club,
Salt Lake City,
Kolkata-700 064

Sir,

In response to your announcement in The Statesman of the 20th instant, I beg to state that I wish to participate in the Quiz Contest to be held on the 23rd March next. I am a student of Class VIII of Bidhannagar Govt. School. The enclosed certificate from the Headmaster will testify to it. I would request you kindly to enroll my name. I shall also be glad if you send me an information brochure furnishing the following particulars:

1. Venue
2. Time and duration
3. Fees, if any

Hope to hear from you soon.
Thanking you,

Yours faithfully,
Anupam Sarkar

27. Here is an advertisement

Learn short-hand and typing in your spare time.
Join the Modern Commercial Centre.
Box 1038. The Statesman.

Now, write an application in response. Note that you will have to ask for some specific information.

15/2, Central Road
Kolkata-700 032
5th April 2008

The Advertiser
Box 1038
The Statesman
Kolkata-700 001

Sir,

I am writing this letter in response to your advertisement in yesterday’s The Statesman. I intend to learn short-hand and typing and would, therefore, like to join your centre. A graduate in science, I am at present working in a private concern as a clerk. I shall be glad if you kindly send me the following information:

1. Usual school hours.
2. Number of days in a week the classes are held.
3. Duration of classes on each day.
4. School fees.
5. Facilities on Saturdays and Sundays.
6. Exact location of the school.

On hearing from you, I shall contact you for finalising the matter. Please send me an early reply.

Yours sincerely,
Somnath Roy

28. Read the notice. Imagine you joined the excursion that took place last month. Now write a letter to your friend describing it.

Annual Excursion

Organised by: Santi Sporting Club
Starting point: Club premises
Date: 6th January
Time: 7-30 a.m.
Travel by: Super luxury bus
Places of visit: Diamond Harbour, Bakkhali
Cost: Rs. 150/- per head (all incl.)
Return: 7th January 8-30 p.m

34, Russa Road
Kolkata-700 026
14th February 2008

My dear Arup,

You will be glad to learn that I went on an excursion last month to Diamond Harbour and Bakkhali. The excursion was organised by Santi Sporting Club, a club of local youths here. We started from the club premises on 6th January early in the morning at 7-30 by a super luxury coach. We spent two full days together, enjoyed every moment of it and returned next day, the 7th at 8-30 p.m. The cost per head was only Rs. 150/- all-inclusive. This, I feel, was not much considering the comfort and enjoyment we had. How I wish you were with us in the trip!

More when we meet,

Yours ever,
Rick

29. The following advertisement came out in The Telegraph on 22nd March, 2005.

For Sale: A 3-roomed flat with two toilets, kitchen at Purbachal, Cluster-8 near stadium, Salt Lake, Kolkata, for outright sale. Contact P. K. Sen, 121, Bidhan Sarani, Kolkata – 700 006

Now, write a letter to the advertiser showing your interest in buying the flat.

14/2, Fern Road
Kolkata-700 019
2nd April, 2005

Dear Sir,

In reply to your advertisement in The Telegraph dated 22nd March last, I would like to inform you that I am looking for a suitable flat. I would, therefore, be glad if you kindly send me the following particulars regarding your flat at an early date:

1. Number of bed rooms with sizes.
2. Size of living room.
3. Size of dining room / space, if any.
4. Total floor area of the flat including the common areas.
5. Orientation of the flat.
6. Width of road in the front.
7. Year of construction.

I would also like to know the price you have fixed for it. On hearing from you, I shall proceed further in this matter.
Awaiting an early reply,

Yours faithfully,
S. N. Roy

30. Read the following advertisement and write a letter in response to it.

A retired Headmaster wishes to coach English to students, in age group 12-14. Candidates should apply in their own hand-writing within seven days to: Mr. Singh, 48 Wood Street, Kolkata-700 007

Mr. Singh
48, Wood Street
Kolkata-700 007
Sir,

12, Nandan Road
Kolkata-700 025
5. 3. 2005

In response to your advertisement in today’s The Statesman, I beg to state that I wish to have coaching from you in English. I am a student of class 8 of Patha Bhaban. My school hours will permit me to have coaching for 2 hours on Tuesday and Friday. I passed the last final examination securing 75% marks in the aggregate. My score in English was 60%. I shall be glad if you kindly take me in. On hearing from you, I shall call on you to finalise the matter.

Yours truly,
Pradip Roy

Letter Writing Complaints And Petitions

1. Write a letter to the Officer-in-Charge of your local police station about your bicycle theft.

3rd January, 2011

The Officer-in-Charge
Shibpur Police Station
P. O. Shibpur.

Sir,

I have to inform you that my bicycle was stolen today between 11 a.m. to 11-30 a.m. from the bicycle stand of the local Gramin Bank. It was duly locked to the stand with lock and key. The cycle is of ‘Raliegh’ make and black coloured.

I would request you to take proper steps so that the bicycle thief is brought to book and the missing cycle is recovered.

4/1, B. M. Lane
Battalà
Dist. Howrah

Yours faithfully,
Saibal Dutta

2. Write a letter to the Municipal authorities complaining about the overflowing drains.

To
The Chairman,
Dum Dum Municipality

Sir,

I regret to inform you that the main road just in front of our house has been flooded with filthy water coming out of the road-side open drains. The drains have been choked and are not cleaned regularly by any scavenger. The whole area has become stinky and polluted. The drains should be cleaned immediately, otherwise epidemic may break out any moment. I would, therefore, request you to do the needful immediately and set things right:

15th June, 2010
3, Motijheel Road
Dum Dum, Kolkata-28

Yours faithfully,
Abhijit Roy

3. The roads in your locality have become bad. Write a letter to the Chairman of the municipality complaining about it.

The Chairman,
Kalna Municipality
Dist. Burdwan

Sir,

The roads in our locality have become a constant source of trouble to us. The surfaces are badly damaged. Pot holes have appeared extensively. Stone-chips and other materials have come out and are lying scattered all over the roads. During rains, the roads become almost a death trap to the pedestrians. The roads need immediate repair.

I, therefore, appeal to you for an immediate action in the matter.

14th June, 2014
Kalna Road
Dist: Burdwan

Yours faithfully,
Amal Roy

4. There is no arrangement for free medical treatment in your locality. Write an application to the Sabhadhipati of your Zilla Parisad praying for establishing a charitable dispensary in your locality.

Το
The Sabhadhipati
Beldanga Zilla Parishad
Dist. Murshidabad

Sir,

I regret to inform you that there is neither any health centre nor any doctor in our locality. The subdivisional town is ten kilometers away from here. Most of the people are poor. They do not get any medical aid when they fall sick. So, I appeal to you to set up a charitable dispensary in our locality. The poor villagers will remain ever grateful to you for this.

21st December, 2014
Village Beldanga
Dist. Murshidabad.

Yours faithfully,
Ratan Pal

5. Write a letter to the Postmaster of your locality complaining about the late delivery of letter.

The Post Master
Kalighat
Kolkata-700 026

Sir,

17, Kalighat Road
Kolkata-700 026
5th Jan, 2015

I regret to say that of late delivery of letters from your post office has become very irregular. Very often letters posted from Kolkata take even 12 to 15 days to reach us. This would be evident from the postal stamps marked on the letters. Recently a letter for a job interview reached me a week after the appointed day, even though it was posted well in advance. You will realise that such delays cause us great inconvenience and loss.

I would, therefore, request you to look into the matter and arrange delivery of letters as promptly as possible.

Yours faithfully,
‘X’

Letter Writing Letters To Newspapers

নিম্নলিখিত নিয়মগুলি লক্ষ্য করবে :

1. The Editer-কে উদ্দেশ্য করে চিঠি লেখা হয়।
2. Salutation (সম্ভাষণ)-এ Sir কথাটি ব্যবহার করা হয়।
3. চিঠিটির Subscription (পরিসমাপ্তি) হয়. সাধারণত Yours truly বা Yours faithfuly দিয়ে।
4. পত্রলেখকের নাম ও ঠিকানা অবশ্যই দিতে হবে, যদিও তা ছাপায় প্রকাশ করা না হয়। নাম ও ঠিকানাবিহীন অর্থাৎ বেনামী চিঠি কখনও পত্রিকায় প্রকাশ করা হয় না।
5. চিঠিটি সংক্ষিপ্ত হওয়া উচিত অথচ মূল বক্তব্য যেন পরিস্কার থাকে।

Letter Writing Specimen

1. Write a letter to the Editor of a Newspaper ventilating your grievance about frequent load-shedding.

2, Ibrahimpur Road,
Kolkata – 700 032.
25th Oct, 2014

The Editor,
The Telegraph,
Kolkata-700 001.

Sir,

Frequent load-shedding in the city and suburbs has made our life miserable. Power-cuts over wide areas for hours together have become a daily feature of our life nowadays. Houses, shops, factories -all reel under acute load-shedding. Students have to study in dim candle light. We have learnt to cook and eat in darkness. The whole industry is paralysed. It seems we are sliding back to the dark age. It is high time the government took suitable measures to restore normalcy in power supply.

Yours faithfully,
T.K. Roy

2. Write a letter to the Editor, of a newspaper complaining against hike in the prices of essential commodities.

The Editor
The Statesman
Kolkata – 700001

63, Bidhan Pally
Titagarh,
30th April, ’14

Sir,

Recently prices of essential commodities have gone up by leaps and bounds. Ordinary rice now sells at Rs. 30, sugar at Rs. 38 and massur dal and mustard oil at Rs. 90 a kilo. Potatoes and onions have reached an alltime high of Rs. 22 and Rs. 40 respectively. Every item is beyond the reach of the common people, and there is no apparent reason for this. There is no sign of relief whatsoever.

It is high time the government took serious measures to bring down the price line of every essential commodity.

Yours truly,
I. B. Roy

3. Write a letter to the Editor of a newspaper about the noise of loudspeakers at all hours during festivals.

The Editor
The Telegraph Kolkata-700001

Sir,

I wonder how mikes add to the gaiety of our festivals. They blare out nothing but cheap songs at all hours of the day and night. It is difficult to get a wink of sleep at night. You cannot protest. It will be perhaps against public sentiment. The local rowdies are there to bully if you do so.
I should like to request every young citizen to be thoughtful and refrain from using microphones indiscriminately.

23B, Haldarpara Road
Kolkata – 700026
October 19, 2012

Yours faithfully,
Asim Banerji

4. Write a letter to the Editor of an English daily complaining against the random cutting of roadside trees.

The Editor
The Statesman
Kolkata – 700001

P.O. Panagarh
Dt. Burdwan
6th April, 2014

Sir,

Of late, there has been a sudden spurt in felling of roadside trees along the Panagarh Ilambazar Road in the district of Burdwan. It is learnt that widening of the road has been taken up, and cutting down of trees, therefore, has become necessary. Trees are useful and beautiful gifts of nature. Loss of greenery causes environmental pollution. Felling of trees should be kept to the minimum. The loss should be compensated by planting as many trees as possible in new locations.

I would invite attention of the government to this aspect of the road widenning programme..

Yours faithfully,
A. Basu

Reading Skill Seen Lesson 9 Summer Friends

Word meanings:

Stanza 1

Swallow (সোয়ালো)— দোয়েল পাখি; summer bird — গ্রীষ্মকালের পাখি; chimney (চিমনী) – ধুম্রনালী; weather (ওয়েদার)—আবহাওয়া; chirping (চারপিং) – কিচির মিচির করে; notes (নোটস)—গান বা ধ্বনি; for weeks together——কয়েক সপ্তাহ কাল ধরে।

Stanza 2

cold wintry day—ঠাণ্ডা শীতের দিন; guest (গেস্ট) – অতিথি; gay (গে)—খুশি, আনন্দিত; young অল্পবয়সী; follow (ফলো)—অনুসরণকরা।

Stanza 3

dreary (ড্রিয়ারি)—নিষ্প্রভ, বিষণ্ণ ; frost (ফ্রস্ট্) – তুষার; cling (ক্লিং)— লেগে থাকা, জড়িয়ে থাকা; sparrow (স্প্যারো)—চড়ুই পাখি; although – যদিও; crost (ক্রস্ট) — বিচ্ছিন্ন; narrow (ন্যারো) – সংকীর্ণ।

Read And Learn Also WBBSE Class 8 English Reading Skills

Stanza 4

sorrow (সরো)—দুঃখ ; mischance (মিচান্স ) – দুর্ভাগ্য; greet (গ্রি) — স্বাগত সম্ভাষণ জানানো; with his sight -এসে, দর্শনে।

Substance:

The poet looks upon the Swallow as a fair-weather friend. In summer when the weather is fine and warm, he comes and chirps, taking shelter in our chimneys.

But with the onset of winter, he leaves us like an opportunist guest and flies away to some warm place seeking comfort.

But the Sparrow does not leave us even in winter. Like a true friend, he stays with us in all occasions in summer and winter, sunshine or frost, in joy and sorrow. The poet desires to have such true friends only.

বঙ্গানুবাদ :

কবি সোয়ালো পাখিকে একজন সুসময়ের বন্ধু বলে মনে করেন। গ্রীষ্মকালে যখন আবহাওয়া উয় এবং ভাল থাকে, সে তখন এসে আশ্রয় নেয় আমাদের চিমনিগুলোতে আর কিচিরমিচির করে। কিন্তু শীত যেই আসে, একজন সুবিধাবাদী অতিথির মতো সে তখন আমাদের ছেড়ে উড়ে চলে যায় কোনো উয় জায়গায় আরামের সন্ধানে। কিন্তু চড়ুই পাখি এমনকি শীতকালেও কখনো আমাদের ছেড়ে চলে যায় না। একজন প্রকৃত বন্ধুর মত শীত, গ্রীষ্ম, রোদ, তুষারপাত, আনন্দ, দুঃখ—সব সময়ই সে আমাদের সাথে থাকে। কবি কেবলমাত্র এরকম প্রকৃত বন্ধুদেরই পেতে আকাঙ্খা করেন।

Reading Skill Seen Lesson 9 Summer Friends Examples

Read the texts below and do as directed.

Question 1. The Swallow is a summer bird;

He in our chimneys when the weather
Is fine and warm, may then be heard
Chirping his notes for weeks together.

Come there but one cold wintry day,
Away will fly our guest the Swallow
And much like him we find the way
Which many a gay young friend will follow.

1. Answer the questions below:

1. Why do you think the Swallow leaves the poet during the winter season?
2. What does the Swallow do in summer?
3. Why does the poet call the Swallow a guest?
4. How is the behavior of a “gay young friend” similar to that of the Swallow?

Answer:

1. The Swallow is a migratory bird that lives in a warm place. So during winter, he goes away in search of a warm place.
2. Being a summer bird, the Swallow stays in the chimney chirping for weeks together.
3. The Swallow is called a guest because he does not live in the chimney permanently but flies away in the winter just like a guest who comes only for a short period.
4. Just like a Swallow who leaves us when the winter sets in, a ‘gay young friend’ also leaves us in times of sorrow and need.

2. Write ‘T’ for true and ‘F’ for false statements:

Question 1. The Swallow loves winter.
Answer: False

Question 2. The Swallow takes shelter in the cage.
Answer: False

Question 3. The Swallow is a summer bird.
Answer: True

Question 4. Young friends are considered as temporary friends.
Answer: True

Question 5. The Swallow sings merrily when it rains.
Answer: False

3. Fill in the blanks with words from the text. There may be a few extra words.

List of words: weather, chimneys, guest, wintry, chirping, away, summer, follow.

Question 1. I went to Darjeeling in ________
Answer: Summer

Question 2. A man has been engaged to clean the ________
Answer: Chimneys

Question 3. In spring we can hear ________ of the birds.
Answer: Chirping

Question 4. We have a ________ now at our house.
Answer: Guest

Question 2. In dreary days of snow and frost

Closer to Man will cling the Sparrow
Old friends, although in life we’re crost,
Their hearts to us will never narrow.

Give me the bird give me the friend
Will sing in frost-will love in sorrow-
Whate’er mischance to-day many send,
Will greet me with his sight tomorrow.

1. Answer the questions below:

1. What does the Sparrow do in winter?
2. What does the poet feel about the old friends?
3. What type of friend does the poet want?
4. What type of bird does the poet want?

Answer:

1. The Sparrow clings closer to man during winter which means that it remains emotionally attached to man in his sorrow.
2. The poet feels that though old friends get separated, their hearts always remain closer to each other.
3. The poet wants a friend who will stay with him in joy and sorrow.
4. The poet wants a bird like the Sparrow and not the Swallow because, unlike the Swallow, the Sparrow will stay with him forever in both happy and bad times.

2. Choose the correct answers from the alternatives given:

Question 1. The Sparrow accompanies the poet in times of

1. Snow and frost,
2. Rain and water,
3. Sunshine and warmth.

Answer: 1. Snow and frost

Question 2. During winter the Sparrow will

1. Fly away,
2. Cling closer,
3. Dance in frost.

Answer: 2. Cling closer

Question 3. The hearts of old friends will never be-

1. Broad,
2. Narrow,
3. Kind.

Answer: 2. Narrow

Question 4. The poet wants a bird that will

1. Dance in Frost,
2. Enjoy summer,
3. Sing in frost.

Answer: 3. Enjoy summer

3. Find words in the text which are opposite in meaning of the following words:

1. Joyful;
2. Slip off;
3. Wide;
4. Foe;
5. Hate;
6. Bid farewell.

Answer:

1. Dreary,
2. Cling;
3. Narrow;
4. Friend,
5. Love,
6. Greet.

WBBSE Chapter 15 Conjunctions

উপরের sentence-গুলিতে মোটা word-গুলি দুইটি আলাদা sentence-কে অথবা দুইটি ভিন্ন word-কে যুক্ত করেছে বলে এদের Conjunction বলা হয়।, নীচে কিছু Conjunction-এর ব্যবহার লক্ষ্য করো :

Conjunctions Joining

1. Word to word:
   • Noun to Noun:
     • Is that a tiger or a lion?
     • Rathin and Papia will not come here. You and he are both young.
   • Pronoun to Pronoun: You and he are both young.
   • Verb to Verb: The child sit down young.
   • Adv. to Adv.: Slowly and steadily the tortoise won the race.
   • Adj. to Adj.: He is slow but steady.
2. Sentence to sentence:

Note:

1. Unless ও until এই দুইটি Conjunction-ই Negative অর্থ প্রকাশ করে।
2. Until— তক্ষণ পর্যন্ত না । Unless — যদি না।

সুতরাং “হ্যাঁ” অর্থ বোঝাতে এদের সাথে not বসবে না।

Read And Learn More WBBSE Class 8 English Functional Grammar

1. Wait here until I come—আমার আসা পর্যন্ত এখানে অপেক্ষা করো। (until I do not come হবে না।)
2. Unless you work hard you will fail—কঠোর পরিশ্রম না করলে তুমি অসফল হবে। (Unless you do not work hard হবে না; তবে If you do not work hard ব্যবহার হতে পারে।)
3. He worked until I came – আমি আসা পর্যন্ত সে কাজ করেছিল।
4. I shall be ruined unless you help me — যদি তুমি আমায় সাহায্য না করো আমার সর্বনাশ হবে।

If, Unless-এর ব্যবহার

উপরে বলা হয়েছে যে unless শব্দটি একটি Conjunction এবং এটা Negative অর্থ বহন করে।

Unless— যদি না

সুতরাং “হ্যাঁ” অর্থ বোঝাতে এর সাথে not বসবে না।

1. Unless you work hard, you will fail – কঠোর পরিশ্রম না করলে তুমি অসফল হবে।
2. Unless you come in time you will miss the train — সময়মত না আসলে তুমি ট্রেনটি ধরতে পারবে না।

এখানে ‘unless you do not work এবং ‘unless you do not come’ হবে না।

“If” ব্যবহার করেও উপরের sentence-গুলি লেখা যায়। কিন্তু সেক্ষেত্রে not ব্যবহার করতে হবে যথা :

1. If you do not work hard, you will fail.
2. If you do not come in time, you will miss the train.

এইরূপ, নীচের Sentence গুলি লক্ষ্য করো :

1. If you do not feel hungry, you should not eat. Or, Unless you feel hungry, ‘you should not eat.
2. If the drains are not cleaned properly, mosquitoes will grow. Or, Unless the drains are cleaned properly, mosquitoes will grow.

Sentence-লि “” দ্বারা কীভাবে যৌগ করা হয়েছে দেখেঃ

1. Do you feel unwell? Consult a doctor.
   • If you feel unwell, consult a doctor.
2.  You want to save the patient. You should take him to the hospital.
   • If you want to save the patient, you should take him to hospital.

Conjunctions দ্বারা কীভাবে দুইটি sentence-কে যোগ করা যায়, তার আরও কিছু উদাহরণ নীচে দেওয়া হল।

1. And দ্বারা ঃ

• I shall go to school. I shall meet the teacher.
• I shall go to school and meet the teacher.
• He likes mangoes. He likes oranges.
• He likes mangoes and oranges.
• Sita is singing. Roma is dancing.
• Sita is singing and Roma is dancing.

2. But:

• Pranab goes to school. His brother stays at home.
• Pranab goes to school but his brother stays at home.
• Ice is cold. The fire is hot.
• Ice is cold but fire is hot.
• He is poor. He is honest.
• He is poor but honest.
• He worked hard. He failed.
• He worked hard but he failed.

3. If, or else, otherwise, unless it?

• Mind your steps. You will fall down.
• Mind your steps, or you will fall down.
• Mind your steps, otherwise, you will fall down.
• Mind your steps, or else you will fall down.
• Unless you mind your steps, you will fall down.
• If you do not mind your steps, you will fall down.

4. So, as, therefore, because, since, for:

• He was ill. He could not come.
• He was ill, so he could not come.
• As he was ill, he could not come.
• He was ill, therefore he could not come.
• He could not come because he was ill.
• Since he was ill, he could not come.
• He could not come, for he was ill.

5. Though, although, still

• He worked hard. He failed.
• He worked hard, still, he failed.
• Though he worked hard, he failed.
• Or, He failed, though he worked hard.
• Although he worked hard, he failed.

Either-or, Neither-nor

Neither-nor( কোনোটাই নয় )

Neither coffee nor tea, thank you.

Either-or—দুটোর মধ্যে যে-কোনো একটা

Either milk or tea please.

Or follows either.

Nor follows neither.

দুই জনের মধ্যে যে-কোনো একজন অর্থে either-or, এবং কেউ না অর্থে neither-nor ব্যবহৃত হয়।

• Either Mohan or Sunil will go there —— হয় মোহন কিংবা সুনীল সেখানে যাবে।
• Neither he nor his sister can do this—সে কিংবা তার বোন কেউই এটা করতে পারে না।
• Either Roma or her sister is responsible for this—হয় রমা কিংবা তার বোন এর জন্য দায়ী।
• Neither Jayanta nor Bibhas was present there—জয়ন্ত কিংবা বিভাস কেউই ওখানে উপস্থিতছিল না।

Either or এবং Neither nor ব্যবহার করতে লক্ষ্য রেখো, তাদের উভয় অংশের পরই একই জাতীয় Part of speech বসবে। নীচের Sentence গুলি দেখো :

Incorrect: I shall say this either to him or his brother

Correct:

• I shall say this either to him or to his brother.
• I shall say this to either him or his brother.

Incorrect: He may either go to the cinema or to the theatre.

Correct:

• He may go either to the cinema or to the theatre.
• He may go to either the cinema or the theatre.

Incorrect: He neither gave me the book nor its price.

Correct:

• He gave me neither the book nor its price.
• He neither gave me the book nor paid its price.

প্রথম বাক্যে either-এর পরে যদি to এই Preposition থাকে তবে or-এর পরেও to এই Preposition দিতে হবে। অথবা to কথাটিকে either-এর পূর্বে বসিয়ে either ও anaর পরে একই জাতীয় Part of Speech (Pronoun ও Noun) বসাতে হবে।

দ্বিতীয় বাক্যে either-এর পরে go (verb) এবং or-এর পরে to (prep.) বসেছে। এটা ভুল। Either-এর পরে to (prep.) বসাতে হবে। নতুবা to wordটিকে either-এর পূর্বে বসিয়ে either ও or-এর পরে একই জাতীয় Part of Speech the cinema (Noun) ও the theatre (Noun) বসাতে হবে।

তৃতীয় বাক্যে neither-এর পরে যদি gave এই ‘Verb’ টি রাখো, তবে nor-এর পরেও একটি verb দিতে হবে, অথবা gave কথাটিকে neither-এর পূর্বে সরিয়ে neither ও nor-এর পরে book ও price-এই দুটি Noun বসাবে।

WBBSE Chapter 15 Conjunctions Excercise

Question 1. Combine the two sentences into a single one with the following Conjunctions in as many ways as you can. One is done for you. (as, so, therefore, and, because, but, unless, if, until, though.)

I am ill: I cannot play.

Answer:

As I am ill, I cannot play.

I am ill, so I cannot play.

Amal will go there. Subir will go there. He works hard. His brother is idle.

You will fail.

You should work hard.

I shall return.

Wait here.

He tried hard.

He failed.

I shall help him.

He is my friend.

He ran fast.

He could not reach it in time.

You tell me the truth.

I shall punish you.

Question 2. Join the sentences with:
Answer:

1. Neither-nor

I could not do it; You could not do it.

I do not want you; I do not want your brother.

He did not go there; his sister did not go there.

I have not seen him; I have not heard from him.

Answer:

Neither I nor you could do it.

She cannot sing; she cannot paint.

He will not help me; he will not help you.

He will not give me the book; he will not pay its price.

2. Either-or

It must be done by Rana; it must be done by his brother.

Answer:

It must be done either by Rana or by his brother.

Give me a red pen; give me a blue pen.

The boys will play football; the boys will play cricket.

You can buy a radio; you can buy a TV.

You must come; your brother must come.

Dialogue Writing

বাংলায় আমরা যাকে সংলাপ বলি তারই ইংরাজি নাম Dialogue। দুই বা ততোধিক ব্যক্তির মধ্যে যে কথোপকথন হয়, তা লিখিতভাবে প্রকাশ করার নাম Dialogue Writing

Dialogue রচনা করবার সময় কাল্পনিক ব্যক্তিগণের যে ভাবটি বা বিষয়টি নিয়ে কথোপকথন হয়, সেটির উপরই আলোচনা নিবন্ধ থাকা উচিত, কথাবার্তায় আমরা সুদীর্ঘ sentence ব্যবহার করি না। ছোটো ছোটো sentence দিয়ে কথা বলি এবং অনেক সময় একটি মাত্র word দিয়েও মনের ভাব প্রকাশ করা হয়।

সাধারণত dialogue-এ কথায় চলতি ভাষা ব্যবহার করা হয়— সাধু ভাষার প্রয়োগ খুবই কম হয়। কথোপকথনের ভাষা যেন সহজ এবং শুদ্ধ হয়। যতদূর সম্ভব I’ll, they’re we’ve এইরূপ contraction ব্যবহার করা হয় ।

কাল্পনিক dialogue লিখবার সময় পৃষ্ঠার বাঁদিকে প্রত্যেক বক্তার নাম লিখে একটি colon (:)’ অথবা dash (—) চিহ্ন দেওয়া হয় এবং তার পরে উক্তিটি লেখা হয়। প্রত্যেক ব্যক্তির উক্তি নূতন ছত্রে লিখতে হয় ৷ নীচে অল্প কয়েকটি examples দেওয়া হল ।

Read And Learn Also WBBSE Solutions For Class 8 English

1. A request for a leave

Amal: May I come in, sir?

Teacher: Yes, what is it, Amal?

Amal: It’s an application for leave, sir.

Teacher: Leave? What for?

Amal: To see my ailing mother at home.

Teacher: Is it? When do you wish to go?

Amal: Tomorrow, sir,

Teacher: For how many days?

Amal: Only four days. I’ll be back on Sunday next.

Teacher: All right, Amal. You may go.

Amal: Thank you very much, sir.

2. Planning a holiday

Siben: Well, Partha, we have a holiday for three days next week. Maybe we can spend a few days at Digha.

Partha: Yes, that’s a good idea. I’ve never been to Digha before. What are the things we may see there?

Siben: The sea beach at Digha, I’ve heard, is simply wonderful. It is also very calm and quiet. Not much else to see.

Partha: That’ll be enough. How do we go there?

Siben: We can take a luxury bus from the Esplanade. It leaves in the morning everyday.

Partha: So we meet at the Esplanade bus stand on Friday at 7 a.m.

Siben: Yes, I shall be there right on time.

3. About a TV program

Dipu: Do you watch Tipu Sultan serial on the TV?

Bani: Yes, I watch it regularly. Isn’t it very interesting?

Dipu: Yes, it is. The photography, the sets, and the acting of Sanjoy Khan as Tipu and Shabaz Khan as Haider is really top-class, aren’t it?

Bani: Yes, what about the battle scenes? Aren’t they realistic?

Dipu: Yes, they are. Actually, the patriotism of Tipu has been truly reflected in the serial.

Bani: I agree with you totally.

4. Between a doctor and his patient

Patient: May I come in, sir? I am in trouble, Doctor.

Doctor: Why, what’s the matter?

Patient: I have been losing appetite and strength for some time.

Doctor: Let me examine you thoroughly. Just lie down here. (The patient lies down and the doctor makes a thorough examination). Well, take these tablets for a week and you’ll be all right.

Patient: Thank you, Doctor.

5. Between two friends about examination.

Bejon: Hello, Amal, how did you do in the examination?

Amal: Not bad, really. But I should have done better in Mathematics.

Bejon: What was wrong with Mathematics? Were the questions very stiff?

Amal: Not really. Perhaps the question paper was a bit lengthy.

Bejon: Couldn’t you answer all the questions?

Amal: No, I could answer only about 80% questions.

Bejon: What about the other subjects?

Amal: I did fairly well in those papers.

Bejon: Then you don’t have to worry. You’ll certainly do well in the examination. Goodbye!

Amal: Thank you very much.

6. Between two friends about the importance of English as a language.

Amal: Well, Bikash, what do you think about the importance of English as a language in our country?

Bikash: I think English is quite necessary for us.

Amal: Why do you think so?

Bikash: Knowledge of the English language is necessary for learning higher science, technology, medicine, economics, and commerce.

Amal: Can’t we learn them in our mother tongue?

Bikash: There are no good books in Indian languages on these subjects.

Amal: Any other reasons for learning English?

Bikash: India is a multilingual state. For proper communication with other states, English is a must.

Amal: Then, do you suggest that English should be the only medium of instruction? Bikash I would say that English may be learnt as an additional language.

Bikash: This would help us to maintain communication with the outside world.

7. Between two friends about a football match witnessed by them.

Shymal: Hello, Subir, did you see the football match between the Town Club and the College team yesterday?

Subir: Of course, I did.

Shymal: It was a wonderful match, wasn’t it?

Subir: Oh! very exciting no doubt but it was a drawn game.

Shymal: Who do you think played better?

Subir: I feel the College team was a better team.

Shymal: I also think so. They should have won by at least two goals.

Subir: The Town Club also missed a few sitters.

Shamal: That’s true. But the College team had better control over the game.

Subir: Yes, bad luck, they could not win the match.

8. A dialogue between two students who have just come out of the examination hall.

Swapan: Well, Kumar, you seem to be very happy. How did you do today?

Kumar: Very nice. I answered all the questions, they were all very easy. I am happy.

Swapan: But I didn’t like the questions, especially the questions on narration change and change of voice. Those are really difficult.

Kumar: Why? Didn’t you attend the class lectures of Mr. Nag? He gave us exercise exactly similar in nature.

Swapan: Sorry, I was absent those days, and couldn’t keep track. Anyway, I hope to get about 65% marks in today’s paper.

Kumar: That’s very good. I expect about 80% marks in today’s paper.

Swapan: Congratulations well in advance.

Kumar: Thank you.

9. Dialogue between two friends about the selection of additional subjects in class 9.

Sunil: We’re in class 9, and we have to choose the additional subject now. What do you propose to take?

Pranab: I’d go for Biology.

Sunil: Biology? Why? What about Mathematics?

Pranab: You know, I’m not so strong in Mathematics. Moreover, I a plan to take up Medicine after the 12 class. So Biology is a must for that.

Sunil: Oh, I see.

Pranab: What about you?

Sunil: I would take up Mathematics as an additional subject. I intend to join the Engineering course after class 12. So Additional Mathematics would be a great help for me.

Pranab: No doubt. That’s a good choice. Let us hope our plans become successful.

10. Dialogue between two friends about late running of trains.

Amal: Hello Barun, glad to meet you after a long time.

Barun: So am I. Where are you going?

Amal: I’m going to Kolkata to meet my uncle; But as usual, 56 Down is running late.

Barun: That’s the normal affair in the Burdwan-Howrah section.

Amal: Really, trains running late by half an hour or so seem to be nobody’s concern!

Barun: Right so. Yesterday, I missed an appointment at my office in Kolkata.

Amal: Why? What happened?

Barun: The 45 Up was held up at Gangpur-some mechanical fault.

Amal: That’s the problem-today it is a mechanical fault, yesterday it was no clearance of the line, and so on.

Barun: Really, late running of trains has become a regular affair. Is there nobody to look into this?

Amal: I doubt. Who cares for the great inconvenience caused to the travellers?

11. A dialogue between a customer and a bookseller.

Bookseller: Welcome, sir. Can I help you?

Customer: Thank you. I want a copy of A New Course on English, Class 8 by P. K. De Sarkar.

Bookseller: Wait a minute, please. [He pulls a copy from the rack.] Here it is, sir.

Customer: How much is it?

Bookseller: It is Rs. 125/-, sir.

Customer (opening his purse): Here it is. [Hands over the money and collects the book.]

Bookseller: Anything else, sir?

Customer: No, thank you.

Dialogue Writing Completion Of Dialogues

অনেক সময় কিছু অসম্পূর্ণ dialogue দেওয়া থাকে এবং ছাত্রকে সেই dialogue টিকে সম্পূর্ণ করতে বলা হয়। Dialogue- এর শূন্যস্থান পূর্ণ করতে হলে প্রথমেই অসম্পূর্ণ dialogue বা conversation- টিকে ভালো করে পাঠ করে নেবে এবং dialogue-এর বিষয়বস্তু সম্পর্কে একটা মোটামুটি ধারণা করে নেবে। প্রশ্ন ও উত্তরবোধক dialogue থাকলে উত্তরটি দেখেই যথাযথ প্রশ্ন বাক্য (question word) দ্বারা ‘শূন্যস্থান পূরণ করা যায়। অনেক সময় উত্তরগুলির মধ্যেই প্রশ্ন বা প্রশ্নের মধ্যে উত্তর দেওয়া থাকে। নীচের উদাহরণগুলি লক্ষ্য করো।

Points to note:

1. The tense for the question will usually be suggested by the tense of the answer, but not always : (সাধারণভাবে প্রশ্ন এবং উত্তর একই Tense-এ হওয়া উচিত।)

Question 1. _______ Mohan recently?
Answer: No, I haven’t seen him for a long time.

Question 2. Mohan recently?
Answer: Yes, I saw him on Monday.

(লক্ষ্য করো উপরিউক্ত দুইটি প্রশ্নের ক্ষেত্রে Tense এক হলেও উত্তরগুলি বিভিন্ন Tense- এ দেওয়া আছে।

2. Questions in the Present Simple Tense are formed with ‘do’ and ‘does’, and those in the Past Simple Tense with did’ : (সাধারণভাবে প্রশ্ন এবং উত্তর একই Tense-এ হওয়া উচিত।)

Question 1. ________ apples? (Does he like)
Answer: Yes, he likes them very much.

Question 2. _________ go there yesterday? (Did you go)
Answer: Yes, I went there yesterday.

উত্তরগুলি যদি শুধুমাত্র ‘Yes’ বা ‘No’ থাকে তবে Question word হিসাবে প্রায়শই ‘who’, ‘which’, ‘what’, ‘why’, ‘whom’, ‘where’, ‘who’

Dialogue Writing Examples

Complete the dialogues by filling in the blanks in the questions:

1. Sita: ________ read this Hindhi book?
Geeta: No, I cannot read Hindi.

Answer: Can (or, Did) you

2. Teacher: ________ your home task?
Student: Yes, I have done it.

Answer: Have you done

3. Amal: ________ like the picture?
Pranab: Yes, I did.

Answer: Did you

4. Rana: _______ know my friend Bapu?
Raja: No, I don’t.

Answer: Do you

5. Father: _________ running in the field.?
Son: Yes, I was (running in the field)

Answer: Were you

6. Chandan: _______ like to go there?
Arun: No, I won’t (like to go there).

Answer: Will you

7. Mother: ______ there at that time?
Son: No, he was not (there at that time).

Answer: Was he

8. Question: _______ your father?
Answer: He is at home.

Answer: Where is

9. Question: _______ you go there?
Answer: I go there to learn spoken English.

Answer: Why do

10. Question: _______ he come?
Answer: He will come by bus.

Answer: How will

11. Question: ________ he come?
Answer: On Monday next.

Answer: When will

12. Question: ________ price of this book?
Answer: Ten rupees.

Answer: What is the

13. Question: _______ give the book?
Answer: I gave the book to my brother.

Answer: Whom did you

14. Question: ______ your pen?
Answer: This one.

Answer: Which one is

15. Question: _______ he live?
Answer: In Delhi

Answer: Where does

Note: In actual conversations, replies are often made in short sentences, without repeating the whole of the sentence. ( প্রকৃত কথোপকথনের সময় আমরা প্রায়ই সম্পূর্ণ sentence ব্যবহার করি না, মাত্র দুই একটি word ব্যবহার করি। )

Complete the dialogues.

1. Shopkeeper: -you-?

Boy: I want some sugar.

Answer:

Shopkeeper: you? What do

Boy: I want some sugar

2. Man: – your name?

Girl: My name is Bina Ghosh.

Man: – live?

Girl: I live in this flat.

Man: – come here?

Girl: I came here yesterday.

Answer:

Man: What is your name?

Girl: My name is Bina Ghosh.

Man: Where do you live?

Girl: I live in this flat.

Man: When did you come here?

Girl: I came here yesterday

3. Father: – doing here?

Son: I’m trying to lift this stone.

Father: – heavy?

Son: Not very heavy.

Father: – you?

Son: thank you. I lift it myself.

Answer:

Father: What are you doing here?

Son: I’m trying to lift this stone.

Father: Is it very heavy?

Son: Not very heavy.

Father: Shall I help you?

Son: No, thank you. I can lift it myself

4. Apurba: – come here ?

Kamal: I came here by bus.

Apurba: – very crowded?

Kamal: No, not so much.

Apurba: -in-hand?

Kamal: A gift for your brother.

Answer:

Apurba: Now did you come here?

Kamal: I came here by bus.

Apurba: Was it very crowded?

Kamal: No, not so much

Apurba: What is in your hand?

Kamal: A gift for your brother

5. Salil: -want here, sir?

Man: I’m looking for a gentleman-Amal.

Salil: Amal?-know- address?

Man: No,

Salil: Well, is he?

Man: He is 24 years old.

Salil: is he?

Man: He is an engineer.

Salil: -? Do you mean Amal Roy? Well, third floor,-flat No. 4

Man: -, sir.

Answer:

Salil: Whom do you want here, sir?

Man: I’m looking for a gentleman, named Asma.

Salil: Amal? Do you know his address?

Man: No, I don’t.

Salil: Well, how old is he?

Man: He is 24 years old.

Salil: What is he?

Man: He is an engineer.

Salil: Engineer? You mean Amal Roy? Well, he lives on the third floor, in flat No. 4.

Man: Thank you, sir.

6. Gargi: Hello!2472-5595 ?

Lipika: -, it is.—you speaking, please?

Gargi: This is Gargi here. You are Lipika I suppose. – you?

Lipika: I’m fine. – you?

Gargi: I’m also fine.

Answer:

Gargi: Hello! Is this 2472-5595?

Lipika: Yes, it is. Who are you speaking to, please?

Gargi: This is Gargi here. You are LipikaI suppose. How are you?

Lipika: I’m fine. What about you?

Gargi: I’m also fine.

7. Suppose Bimal was being interviewed by the Headmaster. Suggest what the Headmaster had said before Bimal gave the answer:

Headmaster: _______________

Bimal: Yes, sir. I haven’t.

Headmaster: _____________

Bimal: I did not feel well last night, sir.

Headmaster: ____________

Bimal: No, sir. This does not happen often. I always come to school with my homework done.

Headmaster: ____________

Bimal: No, sir. I have not been to the doctor.

Headmaster: _________

Bimal: Yes, sir. I will remember.

Answer:

Headmaster: You have ’t done your homework today, I assume.

Bimal: Yes, Sir haven’t.

Headmaster: Why? What’s the matter?

Bimal: I did not feel well last night, sir.

Headmaster: You don ’ do homework quite often, do you?

Bimal: No, sir. This does not happen often. I always come to school with my homework done.

Headmaster: Have you been to the doctor?

Bimal: No, sir. I have not been to the doctor.

8. Complete the following dialogue between a bookseller and a customer.

Book Seller: Can I help you?

Customer: Yes. Can ___ map ______India?

Book Seller: Yes, here _____

Customer: Is it the latest one?

Book Seller: Yes

Customer: How much ________?

Book Seller: Rupees twenty-five.

Customer: Here _______

Book Seller: _________

Answer:

Book Seller: Can I help you?

Customer: Yes. Can I have a map of India?

Book Seller: Yes, here it is.

Customer: How much does it cost?

Book Seller: Rupees twenty-five.

Customer: Here it is.

Book Seller: Thank you very much.

Reading Skill Seen Lesson 1 The Wind Cap Word Meanings

Part 1

lad (ল্যাড) – ছেলে, বালক; sailor (সেলর) — নাবিক; smell (ম্মেল) – গন্ধ; obeyed (ওবেড়) — মেনে চলত; heavy heart —মন খারাপ করে; plough ( প্লাউ ) – লাঙল ; ran over — মাড়িয়ে চলেছিল; turtle (টাটল) – কচ্ছপ ; clod (ক্লড)–ঢেলা, মাটির তাল; safe (সেফ্) নিরাপদ; plucked (প্লাকড্‌ ) – তুলে নিল; bowed (বাওড) – মাথা নীচু করে অভিবাদন করল; kindness (কাইন্ডনেস্) — দয়া; yearned (ইয়ার্ড) – খুব ইচ্ছা করছিল; express (এক্সপ্রেস ) – প্রকাশ করা ।

Part 2

in return —বিনিময়ে ; warning (ওয়ার্নিং) – হুঁশিয়ারী, সতর্কবার্তা ; blink (ব্লিংক) – চোখ পিট-পিটানি ; striped (স্ট্রাইপড়)—ডোরাকাটা; cautions (কশাস্) – হুঁশিয়ারী, সতর্কতা; anchored (অ্যাংকর্ড) নোঙর করা; voyage (ভয়েজ) —সমুদ্রযাত্রা; prevailed (প্রিভেল্ড) – বজায় থাকল; twisted (টুইটেড)— মোচড়ে দিয়েছিল; summon (সামন্) —তলব করা; part with ছেড়ে যাওয়া; prized (প্রাইড) মহামূল্যবান; ashore (অ্যাশোর) – ডাঙায় ফেরা; churning (চার্নিং) – উত্তালভাবে নড়া।

Read And Learn Also WBBSE Class 8 English Reading Skills

Part 3

sighted (সাইটেড)—দেখতে পেত ; offshore (অফশোর ) — সমুদ্রের পাড় থেকে কিছুটা দূরে; consequently (কনসিকোয়েন্টলি)—ফলে; twisted — মোচড় খেল; squall (স্কোয়াল) – আকস্মিক প্রবল বাতাস; snapping (স্ন্যাপিং) – আছড়ে পড়া; spars (স্পার্স) মাস্তুলগুলো; rip (রিপ) – ছিঁড়ে ফেলা; unsuccessful (আসাক্সেসফুল) – অসফল grabbed (গ্র্যাবড্)—খামচিয়ে ধরল; flung (ফ্লাং)— ছুঁড়ে দিলেন; spun (স্পান্)—ঘুরপাক খাওয়া; wardrobe (ওয়ারড্রোব) —জামাকাপড়ের আলমারি; tucking (ট্যাকিং) – পরিস্কার ভাঁজ করে বা গুছিয়ে রাখা।

Reading Skill Seen Lesson 1 The Wind Cap Examples

1. Read the texts below and do as directed.

Question 1. There was once a lad who wanted to be a sailor but his mother would not let him go to the sea. “Child, what do you know of sailing?” she would say. “You’re a farmer’s son, you know the turn of the seasons and the smell of the soil but you do not know the sea.”

Now the boy whose name was Jon, had always obeyed his mother. So he went about his farm work with a heavy heart but did not again’ mention the sea.

One day, he had been walking behind the plow. He all but ran over a tiny green turtle on a clod of dirt. He picked the turtle up and set it on his head where he knew it would be safe. When he was done with plowing, Jon plucked the turtle from his head. To his utter surprise, he found that it had turned into a tiny green fairy man that stood upon his palm and bowed.

“I thank you for your kindness, tell me your heart’s desire and I’ll grant it to you for saving my life,” said the fairy. Jon bowed but said nothing. Although his heart yearned to go out to the sea, he did not express his wish.

The green fairy man could read a heart easily. So he said, “I see you wish to go sailing”. Jon’s face answered for him.

Answer the questions below:

1. What was the boy Jon’s ambition?
2. Where was the tiny green turtle?
3. Why do you think Jon thought that the turtle would be safe on his head?
4. What surprised Jon when he plucked the turtle from his head?
5. What and why did the fairy man want to do for the boy?

Answer:

1. Jon’s ambition was to be a sailor.
2. The tiny green turtle lay on the ground mixed up in a clod of dirt.
3. Jon was plowing the field. So he thought that if he put the turtle on his head, there would be no chance of treading over it, and it would remain safe there.
4. Jon was surprised to find that the little turtle had turned into a tiny green fairy man that stood upon his palm.
5. Jon had saved the turtle’s life by placing it on his head, and so the fairy man wanted to grant in gratitude whatever Jon’s heart desired.

2. Choose the correct answer from the alternatives given:

Question 1. Jon’s father was a―

1. Teacher,
2. Farmer,
3. Sailor.

Answer: 2. Farmer

Question 2. Mother told the lad that he knew the smell of the

1. Soil,
2. Food,
3. Flower.

Answer: 1. Soil

Question 3. Jon put the turtle

1. In his hand,
2. In his bag,
3. On his head.

Answer: 3. On his head

Question 4. The fairy man could read well a man’s-

1. Face,
2. Heart,
3. Palm.

Answer: 2. Heart

Question 5. The fairy thanked Jon for his-

1. Honesty,
2. Truthfulness,
3. Kindness.

Answer: 3. Kindness

3. Rearrange the sentences in the correct order.

1. Mother would not let him go to the sea.

2. He plucked the turtle from his head.

3. Jon wished to be a sailor.

4. He started doing his farm work in a dejected mood.

5. The fairy man wanted to know Jon’s heart’s desire.

6. The turtle changed to a tiny green fairy man.

7. He picked up a turtle and put it on his head.

Answer:

2. He plucked the turtle from his head.

5. The fairy man wanted to know Jon’s heart’s desire.

1. Mother would not let him go to the sea.

3. Jon wished to be a sailor.

7. He picked up a turtle and put it on his head.

6. The turtle changed to a tiny green fairy man.

4. He started doing his farm work in a dejected mood.

4. Fill in the blanks with words from the text listed below. There are a few extra words.

List of words: sailing, smell, plucked, obeyed, tiny, behind, plow, safe.

Question 1. There was a bad _______ all around the area.
Answer: Smell

Question 2. They all ______ the teacher’s order.
Answer: Obeyed

Question 3. He stood ______ the board and watched everything.
Answer: Behind

Question 4. The children are quite _______ here.
Answer: Safe

Question 5. The _______ girl standing there is my sister.
Answer: Tiny

Question 2. “Since you put me on your head like a hat to keep me safe, I shall give you a different kind of cap in return, the kind sailors most desire. A cap full of wind. But there’s one warning, no human hand will ever be able to take it off.”

Then with a blink, the fairy man disappeared leaving a striped cap behind. Young Jon put the cap on his head and ran home to tell his mother.

“No good will come of the wind cap,” she said. But the lad would have none of her cautions. The very next day, putting on the sailor’s cap, he ran off to the sea. On seeing a ship anchored near the shore, he requested the captain to take him along. Thus began his first-ever sea voyage.

1. Answer the questions below:

1. Why did the fairy man offer Jon something in return?
2. What did the fairy man give to the boy?
3. What was the condition that was associated with the wind cap?
4. What was the mother’s reaction on seeing that cap?
5. What request did the boy make to the captain of the ship?

Answer:

1. The fairy man offered Jon something in return for his kindness in keeping him safe on his head.
2. The fairy man gave the boy a kind of wind cap which the sailors desired most.
3. The condition was that no human hand would ever be able to take it off his head.
4. The mother reacted by saying that no good would come of the wind cap.
5. The boy requested the captain to take him along on a sea voyage.

2. Choose the correct answer from the alternatives given.

Question 1. The fairy man vanished leaving behind a-

1. Helmet,
2. Striped cap,
3. Plough.

Answer: 2. Striped cap

Question 2. The cap could be taken off-

1. By no human hand,
2. Only by Jon himself,
3. Only by his

Answer: 1. Only by Jon himself

Question 3. Jon ran off to the sea putting on the

1. Captain’s cap,
2. Sailor’s cap,
3. Security man’s

Answer: 2. Sailor’s cap

Question 4. The ship was

1. Sailing in the mid-sea,
2. Approaching the shore,
3. Anchored near the

Answer: 3. Anchored near the

3. Rearrange the following sentences in the correct order. Write the numbers in the boxes against each.

1. Jon ran home putting the cap on his head.

2. He ran off to the sea.

3. His first-ever sea voyage started.

4. He ignored his mother’s cautions

5. He requested the captain to take him on a sea voyage..

6. The fairy man gave Jon a different kind of cap full of wind.

7. He saw a ship anchored near the shore.

Answer:

2. He ran off to the sea.

4. He ignored his mother’s cautions

7. He saw a ship anchored near the shore.

3. His first-ever sea voyage started.

6. The fairy man gave Jon a different kind of cap full of wind.

1. Jon ran home putting the cap on his head.

5. He requested the captain to take him on a sea voyage.

4. Complete the sentences with information from the text.

Question 1. The cap that sailors desire most is ______
Answer: Kind of cap full of wind

Question 2. For keeping him safe, the fairy man shall offer _______
Answer: A different kind of cap in return

Question 3. The one warning was _________
Answer: That no human hand would ever be able to take off the wind cap

Question 4. Putting the cap on his head Jon went _________
Answer: Home to tell his mother.

Question 5. Seeing a ship near the shore Jon _________
Answer: Requested the captain to take him along

Question 6. Jon began _____________
Answer: His first ever sea voyage

5. Find words in the text which are opposite in meaning of the following:

1. Appeared
2. Same
3. Old
4. Ended
5. Dislike

Answer:

1. Disappeared
2. Different
3. Young
4. Began
5. Desire

Question 3. “Oh, let me go ashore just for one day,” “he begged the captain when they had sighted land. He promised he would return but the captain was unmoved. However, Jon could not stop dreaming of the land.

One quiet afternoon, he lay fast asleep and fell to dreaming again. Unknown to him, the ship stood offshore from his old farm. In Jon’s dream the seasons turned rapidly and as each turned, so did Jon in his bed. Consequently, the cap on his head twisted round and about. It called up a squall from the clear sky that hit the ship without a warning.

The wind hed been whirling about the boat tearing the sails and snapping the spars. “It’s his fault, “the sailors cried. They shouted in anger and fear and tried to rip the cap off his head.

1. Complete the sentences with information from the text:

Question 1. Jon requested the captain ______________
Answer: Did not allow him to go.

Question 2. Though Jon promised to return, the captain ______________
Answer: Did not allow him to go.

Question 3. In Jon’s dream as the seasons turned,___________
Answer: Jon also turned in his bed.

Question 4. As the cap on his head twisted round___________
Answer: A squall from the clear sky appeared and hit the ship without warning.

Question 5. The sailors tried to rip off the cap ________________
Answer: Off Jon’s head as it was responsible for the wind that was whirling about the boat and creating troubles.

2. Write “T” for true and ‘F’ for false statements. Write supporting sentences for each of your answers.

Question 1. The captain allowed Jon to go ashore.
Answer: False

But the captain remain unmoved.

Question 2. Jon dreamt about the land.
Answer: True

Jon could not stop dreaming of the land.

Question 3. The squall was called up because John was sleeping.
Answer: False

Consequently, the cap on his head twisted it called up a squall

Question 4. A violent storm capsized the ship.
Answer: True

A squall from the clear sky that hit the ship.

Question 5. Jon consciously created the problem for the sailors.
Answer: False

In Jon’s dream the seasons turned…..the cap on his twisted… a squall from the clear sky that hit the ship……

3. Fill in the blanks with words from the text. There are a few extra words.

Question 1. I ________ to help him.
Answer: Promised

Question 2. The _______ of the cricket team scored a century.
Answer: Captain

Question 3. The summer ________ are very hot here.
Answer: Seasons

Question 4. Crime figures are rising ________
Answer: Rapidly

Question 5. Despite all requests he remained _____________
Answer: Unmoved

(List of words: return, seasons, promised, unknown, captain, unmoved, rapidly)

Question 4. Well, they were unsuccessful for it was a fairy cap. They pulled it and twisted it and so the squall became a storm, the mightiest they had ever seen. The captain ordered his men to bring Jon before him. In anger, he grabbed him by the tail of his striped cap, twisted him thrice, and flung him out to the sea. But the winds called up by the cap spun the ship three times around.

As Jon went under the waves, the cap came off his head. Soon the storm stopped, and Jon swam ashore. The cap followed him. When he got to the land, Jon picked up the cap and ran home to his mother and farm.

Again in the winter, when the snow lay heavy on the fields, he began to dream of the sea. Jon went to the wardrobe, got out the fairy cap, and stared at it for a long moment. Tucking it in his shirt, he ran out to the field. He placed the wind cap under a stone where he knew the fairy man would find it. Then he left again for the seas.

For the rest of his life, Jon spent half the year on a ship and half on the shore till at last he owned his own boat and a hundred-acre farm land. From then on he came to be known as Captain Turtle for he was as much at home on the water as he was on the land.

1. Answer the questions below:

1. What happened when the sailors tried to pull out and twist the fairy cap?
2. What did the captain do with Jon?
3. How did the storm stop?
4. Where did the boy place his wind cap and why?
5. Why did Jon want to return the wind cap to the fairy man?
6. How did the boy spend the rest of his life?

Answer:

1. When the sailors tried to pull out and twist the fairy cap, the squall became a mighty storm.
2. In great anger, the captain grabbed Jon by the tail of his striped cap, twisted him thrice, and flung him out into the sea.
3. As Jon went under the waves, the cap came off his head, and soon the storm stopped.
4. The boy placed his wind cap under a stone where he knew the fairy man would find it.
5. The cap caused a lot of troubles for him. So he wanted to return the wind cap to the fairy man.
6. For the rest of his life, the boy spent half the year on a ship and half on the shore till at last he owned his own boat and a hundred-acre farm land.

2. Match the words in A with their opposite meaning in B

Answer: