LANGUAGE DEVELOPMENT
Unit 2. Communication
Freewriting
Ways with words
A. The words in the crossword puzzle are from the text. Find them in
the text to solve the puzzle based on the clues given below.
Down:
1.
to be preoccupied with a single topic or emotion
obsessed
3.
to move slowly and quietly in a particular direction
creep
4.
orderly, logical and Consistent
coherent
Across:
2.
to utter rapidly or unintelligibly
babble
5.
to insert something between other things
interpose
6.
an unreadable handwriting
squiggle
B. Use the following words in sentences of your own.
massive
The
explosion has made a massive hole in the ground.
consciousness
There
has always been a strong social consciousness in the city.
catch-as-catch-can
They
don't have enough textbooks for all of the students, so it'll
be catch-as-catch-can.
give
up
give
up- She gave up her job after she had the baby.
abandon
My
sister abandoned her teaching career in favor of politics.
lousy
I’ve
got a cold and I feel lousy.
editing
I
have time to do quick editing of my essay before handing it in.
C. Word formation: Adjectives and Adverbs
a. Read the following sentences from the text and notice the
words that are underlined.
i.
Do free writing exercises regularly.
ii.
Go quickly without rushing.
iii.
No wonder the producer gets nervous, jumpy, inhibited, and
finally can’t be coherent.
iv.
You can throw away lousy beginnings and make new ones.
The
underlined words in (a) and (b) are adverbs, and in (c) and (d) are adjectives.
Notice that we can form adverbs by adding the suffix ‘-ly’ to an adjective, and
adjective by adding the suffix ‘-y’ to a noun.
Note
that adding the suffix ‘-ly’ to the noun makes that noun an adjective (e.g.
friend – friendly, love – lovely, beast – beastly, scholar – scholarly, month
–monthly, etc.).
b. Write the following words in the right columns. Change the
adjectives into adverbs and nouns into adjectives.
[rain,
careful, bush, spice, perfect, automatic, snow, blood, certain, cloud, fair,
general, heavy, bag, proud, rapid, mood, noise, proper, air, final, common,
beautiful, frequent, hungry, cream, dust, ease, ice, oil, fun, hand, greed,
health, hill]
Adjectives |
Adverbs |
Nouns |
Adjectives |
careful |
carefully |
rain |
rainy |
perfect |
perfectly |
bush |
bushy |
automatic |
automatically |
spice |
spicy |
certain |
certainly |
snow |
snowy |
fair |
fairly |
blood |
bloody |
general |
generally |
cloud |
cloudy |
proud |
proudly |
bag |
baggy |
rapid |
rapidly |
mood |
moody |
proper |
properly |
noise |
noisy |
final |
finally |
air |
airy |
common |
commonly |
cream |
creamy |
beautiful |
beautifully |
dust |
dusty |
frequent |
frequently |
ice |
icy |
heavy |
heavily |
fun |
funny |
hungry |
hungrily |
ease |
easy |
- |
- |
hand |
handy |
- |
- |
oil |
oily |
- |
- |
greed |
greedy |
- |
- |
health |
healthy |
- |
- |
hill |
hilly |
c. Fill in the gaps with the appropriate adjective or adverb.
i.
Pramila is playing …… (quiet/quietly).
Pramila
is playing quietly.
ii.
Hari speaks very …… (loud/loudly).
Hari
speaks very loudly.
iii.
Mukesh is a …… (careful/carefully) driver.
Mukesh
is a careful driver.
iv.
The test was …… (easy/easily) and we finished in time.
The
test was easy and we finished in time.
v.
He is fitting the …… (automatic/automatically) door in my house.
He
is fitting the automatic door in my house.
vi.
My uncle speaks …… (perfect/perfectly) Chinese.
My
uncle speaks perfect Chinese.
vii.
It was raining very …… (heavy/heavily).
It
was raining very heavily.
viii.
She looked very …… (calm/calmly), but I am sure she was feeling very nervous.
She
looked very calm, but I am sure she was feeling very nervous.
Comprehension
Answer the following questions.
a. Why is free-writing also called ‘automatic writing’?
Freewriting
is also called 'automatic writing’ because it is performed without any
conscious control to achieve a spontaneous expression.
b. How do you differentiate writing from
speaking?
Writing
has the advantage of permitting more editing but speaking doesn’t have.
c. What is the biggest obstacle in the writing
process, according to Elbow? Do you agree with him? Why? Why not?
According
to Elbow, editing is the biggest obstacle in the writing process. This is
because a series of editing can diminish the natural creativity the mind discharges.
d. How can freewriting overcome ‘writer’s
block’?
Freewriting
can overcome ‘writer’s block’ as it is non - editing.
e. What do you mean by ‘voice’ in writing?
Voice
is the combination of a sound, texture, and rhythm and the main source of power
in writing.
f. Elbow uses a simile to explain that
freewriting “is like writing something and putting it in a bottle in the sea.”
What does this mean? Explain.
The
given expression means freewriting helps somebody by providing no feedback.
Critical thinking
a. How does the author persuade readers in this essay? What is
he trying to communicate to the readers?
In the quest to enhance
writing skills, freewriting emerges as an invaluable and transformative
practice, according to the author's compelling argument. Emphasizing the
significance of this exercise, the author convincingly supports their viewpoint
with relevant evidence and insightful discussion.
At its core, freewriting
embodies spontaneity and relinquishes the constraints of external judgment. By
abstaining from seeking feedback or evaluation during the process, writers can
liberate themselves from self-doubt and inhibitions that often stifle
creativity. This uninhibited exploration of thoughts and ideas encourages
writers to delve into uncharted territories and unearth hidden gems of
inspiration.
One crucial aspect
highlighted by the author is the avoidance of editing during freewriting.
Traditional writing often involves constant self-criticism and refinement,
which can lead to a laborious and stagnant outcome. In contrast, freewriting
nurtures a flow of ideas without restraint, allowing writers to tap into their
innate voice—a unique combination of sound, texture, and rhythm. This voice,
often overshadowed by the obsession for perfecting every sentence, finds its
expression through freewriting, thereby infusing regular writing with newfound
vigor and authenticity.
By practicing
freewriting repeatedly, writers gradually shed their inhibitions and embrace
the fluidity of their thoughts, resulting in a more liberated and confident
writing style. The process enables individuals to explore various writing
techniques, experiment with different narrative structures, and cultivate a
deeper connection with their innermost musings.
Moreover, the practice
of freewriting serves as an effective exercise to combat writer's block. It
offers a sanctuary where creativity can flow unhindered, encouraging writers to
overcome mental barriers and rejuvenate their imagination. This, in turn,
fosters a more disciplined writing routine and paves the way for consistent
progress.
In conclusion, the
author persuasively contends that freewriting holds the key to unlocking one's
true writing potential. The absence of criticism and editing allows writers to
discover and embrace their authentic voice, imbuing their work with life and vitality.
As writers immerse themselves in this uninhibited practice, they find the
freedom to explore, experiment, and evolve, ultimately honing their craft and
elevating their writing to new heights. Thus, embracing the liberating art of
freewriting is not merely a suggestion but a vital step towards mastering the
art of effective communication through the written word.
b. Elbow said, freewriting “is an exercise in bringing together
the process of producing words and putting them down on the page.” Do you agree
with his statement? Why? Why not?
Freewriting, as an
exercise in unbridled expression, serves as a powerful tool in the writing
process by seamlessly connecting the act of generating words and transcribing
them onto the page. Its essence lies in the freedom to write without
interruption, disregarding coherence or structure. This practice liberates
writers from the burden of focusing on trivialities like spelling and grammar,
allowing them to delve into the depths of their thoughts without restraint.
Unlike traditional
writing, where the impulse to edit and refine can hinder the flow of ideas,
freewriting encourages writers to relinquish their inner editor and embrace the
rawness of their thoughts. By repetitively engaging in this exercise, the ingrained
habit of simultaneous editing while producing is dismantled, paving the way for
a smoother and less obstructed writing experience. The inhibition to create
freely is shattered, and writers find themselves in a state of creative flow,
unearthing ideas they might not have accessed through a more rigid approach.
Freewriting provides a
safe space for uninhibited self-expression, where writers can explore various
topics without the fear of judgment or critique. It becomes a private sanctuary
for thoughts to flow unfiltered, granting writers the freedom to confront their
emotions and ideas head-on. This uninhibited release of thoughts often leads to
surprising discoveries and breakthroughs, enriching the writing process and
nurturing a deeper connection with one's own creative reservoir.
Furthermore, freewriting
reinforces the understanding that the primary audience during this exercise is
the writer themselves. Without the pressure of external validation or
evaluation, individuals can write with authenticity and honesty, unburdened by
the desire to please others. This inherent nature of freewriting fosters
self-awareness and self-discovery, allowing writers to tap into their innermost
thoughts and emotions, thereby enriching their writing with genuine depth and
sincerity.
As freewriting becomes a
regular practice, writers witness a transformation in their writing skills.
They gradually become more adept at channeling their ideas onto the page
swiftly and with confidence. The act of freewriting acts as a catalyst in
breaking down mental barriers that hinder creativity, leading to a more fluid
and productive writing process overall.
In conclusion, the
beauty of freewriting lies in its simplicity and unfiltered nature. It nurtures
the relationship between the mind and the page, fostering creativity and
unearthing hidden potential. By repeatedly engaging in this liberating
exercise, writers can break free from the chains of self-doubt and editing
worries, ultimately enhancing their writing skills and producing work that is
authentic, compelling, and uniquely their own.
c. How did you learn to write? What was particularly difficult
in writing? What inspired you to write? What are some of the challenges that
you still face while writing?
In my journey, writing
proved to be a formidable obstacle, with vocabulary generation and maintaining
coherent grammatical structures posing as the most significant challenges.
While peers seemingly effortlessly crafted their written pieces with finesse, I
struggled to articulate my thoughts effectively, often feeling disheartened by
the disparity in their writing prowess.
Determined to overcome
these impediments, I sought guidance from my teacher, a beacon of support
during this trying period. The teacher's advice to engage in freewriting
exercises and immerse themselves in English texts resonated deeply, and I
decided to embrace these practices wholeheartedly. Freewriting, with its
non-judgmental and spontaneous approach, proved to be a transformative exercise.
It allowed me to unleash my thoughts without restraint, helping me tap into my
creativity and discover my authentic voice.
Simultaneously, delving
into the world of English literature through extensive reading presented me
with a treasure trove of language. Exposure to diverse authors and writing
styles enriched my vocabulary, giving me a broader lexicon to draw upon when
crafting my own compositions. Moreover, reading provided a deep understanding
of sentence structures and grammar, elevating my command of the language and
making my writing more coherent and compelling.
As I consistently honed my
skills through diligent practice, I witnessed tangible improvements in my
writing abilities. Gradually, the once-daunting task of completing writing
assignments became more manageable. I could now approach various writing tasks
with newfound confidence, navigating through them with ease and finesse. The
fear of writing dissipated, replaced by a sense of accomplishment and pride in my
progress.
However, despite these
remarkable advancements, the journey was not without its lingering challenges.
Finding the precise words to encapsulate my thoughts still presented occasional
stumbling blocks. Yet, I was undeterred, viewing these moments as opportunities
for further growth. They embraced the art of revision, understanding that
writing is an iterative process that thrives on refinement.
In conclusion, I
struggle with writing was transformed into a transformative journey of
self-discovery and improvement. Through dedication and the guidance of a
supportive teacher, I conquered the hurdles of vocabulary generation and
grammatical coherence. While I now approach writing tasks with greater ease and
confidence, I recognize that the quest for the perfect expression remains a
continuous voyage, one that I embrace with enthusiasm and determination. I
celebrate the progress I have made, acknowledging that every challenge faced
and overcome has contributed to my growth and development.
Writing
Freewriting
Freewriting is
like brainstorming. It is simply exploring your ideas through writing. When you
freewrite, you write whatever comes into your mind on the topic. You write
without stopping. Most of the freewriting exercises are of short duration –
around five or ten minutes. When you freewrite, you need not worry about the
formal structures, mechanics or grammar.
A. Decide a topic
of your choice for free writing exercise. Write a paragraph on the topic for
five minutes. Do not stop for spelling or go back. Just write as much as you
can. When you finish, you can share (verbally) what you wrote to your friends.
Paragraph
organization
A
paragraph is usually a group of sentences on a topic. Most of the paragraphs
are often five to ten sentences long, but they can be longer or shorter
depending on the topic.
A paragraph has a
topic sentence, supporting sentences and a concluding sentence. The topic
sentence introduces the topic with a controlling idea, the supporting sentences
further explain the topic sentence and the concluding sentence often repeats
the information in the topic sentence in a different way. The topic sentence is
usually the first sentence of the paragraph and the concluding sentence is the
last.
B.
Read the following paragraph. Identify the topic sentence and the concluding
sentence.
Students require
more recreational time in order to better focus on lessons in class. In fact,
studies have shown that students who enjoy a recess of more than 45 minutes
consistently score better on tests immediately following the recess period.
Clinical analysis further suggests that physical exercise greatly improves the
ability to focus on academic materials. Longer periods of recess are clearly
required to allow students the best possible chances of success in their
studies. Clearly, physical exercise is just one of the necessary ingredients
for improving student scores on standardized tests.
C.
Write a paragraph on any one of the following topics.
a.
My school library
My School Library
In the heart of
Nepal, where the majestic Himalayan peaks touch the sky, lies my school
library—an oasis of wisdom and imagination. Nestled within the school premises,
the library is a haven for eager minds seeking to quench their thirst for
knowledge and embark on exciting literary journeys. This essay explores the
invaluable role of my school library in shaping our academic pursuits,
nurturing our curiosity, and fostering a lifelong love for reading and
learning.
The moment one
steps into the library, the air is permeated with the comforting aroma of
books—old and new. Rows of neatly stacked shelves proudly display a vast
collection of books spanning various genres, from classic literature and
science fiction to history, biographies, and academic resources. The library
accommodates the diverse interests of students, ensuring there is something for
everyone.
The librarian, a
warm and welcoming figure, is the guardian of this treasure trove. With a
wealth of knowledge and a genuine passion for reading, the librarian serves as
a guiding light, aiding students in discovering literary gems suited to their
preferences and academic needs. Their presence is a constant source of
inspiration, encouraging us to explore beyond the confines of our textbooks.
One of the
library's remarkable features is the dedicated section for Nepalese literature.
This section showcases the rich cultural heritage of Nepal, with books that
portray the nation's history, folklore, and contemporary issues. As we delve
into the pages of these books, we gain a deeper appreciation for our roots and
a stronger connection to our identity as Nepalese citizens.
The library is not
just a sanctuary for knowledge seekers but also a hub for creative expression.
A cozy reading corner invites students to curl up with a good book, while a
quiet study area allows for uninterrupted concentration. It serves as a space
where ideas converge, fostering group discussions and collaborations that
extend beyond the classroom.
Moreover, the
library serves as a vital resource center for academic pursuits. Students turn
to it for research projects, reference materials, and educational resources.
The digital corner houses computers with internet access, providing a gateway
to an infinite world of information and online learning platforms.
The library plays
a significant role in shaping our personalities as well. Regular reading
instills in us a sense of empathy, critical thinking, and a broader perspective
on the world. By introducing us to diverse characters and cultures, books
expand our horizons and nurture a deep appreciation for the beauty of human
diversity.
In conclusion, my
school library is a sacred place where curiosity is nurtured, knowledge is
celebrated, and imagination is set free. It embodies the essence of learning
and serves as a testament to the transformative power of books. As we explore
its shelves and lose ourselves in the world of words, we emerge not only as
well-informed individuals but also as compassionate and enlightened citizens of
the world. My school library is more than just a repository of books; it is a
gateway to endless possibilities and a sanctuary of inspiration that will
forever hold a special place in our hearts.
b.
Moral values I like most
The
Enduring Virtue of Kindness: A Moral Value I Admire
In
a world often marred by conflicts and self-centered pursuits, one moral value
that shines as a beacon of hope and humanity is kindness. It is a virtue that
transcends cultural boundaries and unites hearts with its simple yet profound
impact. As I reflect upon the values that resonate most deeply within me,
kindness stands out as an essential quality that I admire and cherish.
Kindness
is a gentle force that emanates from the core of one's being, illuminating the
lives of others and leaving a lasting impression. It is not merely a fleeting
act of generosity but a way of life, a genuine expression of compassion and
empathy towards fellow beings. When we practice kindness, we acknowledge the
intrinsic worth of every individual and acknowledge the interconnectedness of
humanity.
One
of the aspects I admire most about kindness is its universality. Regardless of
language, religion, or cultural background, kindness transcends barriers,
touching the lives of people from all walks of life. Whether it's a smile to
brighten someone's day, a listening ear for a friend in need, or a helping hand
extended to a stranger, the power of kindness is boundless and knows no
boundaries.
Kindness
also fosters a ripple effect of positivity. When we extend a gesture of
kindness to someone, it can create a chain reaction, inspiring others to do the
same. A simple act of kindness can trigger a cascade of compassion,
transforming communities and even societies. In a world that often seems
inundated with negativity, kindness becomes a ray of light, igniting hope and
restoring faith in humanity.
Moreover,
kindness is not limited to grand gestures; it thrives in the small acts we
perform daily. From holding the door open for someone to offering a word of
encouragement, these seemingly insignificant acts can have a profound impact on
someone's life. The cumulative effect of these small acts can lead to a
significant shift in the world around us, fostering a more caring and
harmonious society.
The
beauty of kindness lies in its ability to transcend age. From the innocence of
children offering a helping hand to the wisdom of the elderly sharing their
experiences, kindness is a timeless virtue that is passed down through
generations. It is an integral part of our shared human experience and has the
power to bridge gaps between generations, fostering a sense of unity and shared
responsibility for the well-being of all.
In
conclusion, kindness is a moral value that I hold dear to my heart. Its innate
ability to touch lives, inspire change, and build bridges of understanding
makes it a virtue worth emulating. By practicing kindness in our everyday
lives, we not only enrich the lives of others but also nourish our own souls.
As we strive to be kinder individuals, we sow the seeds of a more compassionate
and harmonious world, where the essence of humanity thrives, and the light of
kindness shines brightly for all to see.
Best of Luck
Extra Question
Read the POEM
and answer the questions. [15]
Where the mind is without fear and the head is held high;
Where knowledge is free;
Where the world has not been broken up into fragments by
Narrow domestic walls;
Where words come out from the depth of truth;
Where tireless striving stretches its arms towards perfection;
Where the clear stream of reason has not lost its way into the
Dreary desert sand of dead habit;
Where the mind is led forward by thee into ever-widening
Thought and action …
Into that heaven of freedom, my Father,
Let my country awake.
Rabindranath Tagore
A. Find out the similar words from the
above poem of the following words or phrases:
a) ahead
b) becomes longer and wider
c) completeness
d) constant/stable
e) deepness
f) detached
g) dull/deadly
h) extends
i) fact
j) faultlessness
k) genuineness
l) gloomy
m) god
n) home of god/paradise
o) internal
p) pieces/parts
q) river
r) state
s) the absence of faults
t) the state of being free
u) trying
v) useless traditions
w) you
B. Find the words or phrases in the poem
that are opposite to the following words:
a) alive
b) falsehood
c) foot/tail
d) found
e) hell
f) incompleteness
g) international
h) joined
i) low
j) useful
k) wide/broad
l) wild
C. Answer the following questions:
a) How should our mind be and why?
b) Is the old useless traditions ‘Dead habit’?
c) What do you mean by dead habits?
d) What does ‘narrow domestic walls’ mean?
e) What does the poet wish for his country?
f) What does the word ‘father’ stand for?
g) What happens if our mind is without fear?
h) What happens if the mind is full of fear?
i) What is the cause of the world’s fragmentation?
j) What is the theme of the poem?
k) What lesson does the poet want to give us?
l) When does our head hold high?
m) When is the head held high?
n) When the knowledge is freely expressed?
o) Where is the mind expected to be led?
p) Where our arms should be directed?
q) Who has composed the poem?
r) Whom does the phrase ‘My father’ refer to?
s) Why has the world broken up into fragments?
D. Write ‘T’ for true and ‘F’ for false for
the following statements:
a)
‘Dead habits’ means the
habits of dead people.
b)
Constant attempts deserve
perfection.
c)
Everybody wants to widen his
thought and action.
d)
Fearless mind is always
admired.
e)
Narrow domestic walls are
necessary for our society.
f)
Our horizon of thoughts is
broad because of dead habits.
g)
The fear helps to hold our
head high.
h)
The fear is essential for
the improvements.
i)
The mind should be fearless
to get better knowledge.
j)
The people can’t speak the
truth due to the fear of something.
k)
The poet prays to god for
freedom.
l)
The poet wants his
countrymen to fight for freedom.
m)
The poet wishes his country
to be a heaven of freedom
n)
The poet wishes or the
freedom of the knowledge.
o)
The world has been divided
into many domestic walls.
p)
Thomas Hardy has composed
the poem.