LANGUAGE DEVELOPMENT
Unit 7. Ecology and Development
Foresters without Diplomas
Ways with words
A. Match the words with their meanings.
constituency : iv. electoral district
pursue : iii. to follow in an effort to
overtake or capture
infiltrate : to enter or gain access to (an
organization, place, etc.) secretly and gradually
nomadic : ii. living the life of roaming
anatomy : vi. art of studying the different
parts of any organized body
subversive : i. seeking or intended to overthrow an
established system or institution
B.
Study the following words.
prefix |
words |
prefix |
words |
mal |
maldevelopment,
malpractice, malfunction |
mis |
misbehave,
misplace, misfortune |
un |
unable, unhappy,
unfair |
in |
inactive,
incomplete, insufficient |
pre |
prepaid,
predetermine, preview |
il |
illegal,
illegible, illiterate |
dis |
disloyal,
disobey, dishonest |
im |
impolite,
immoral, impartial |
re |
remix, repay,
reuse |
ir |
irregular,
irresponsible, irrelevant |
de |
derail, depart,
degrade |
non |
nonprofit,
nonstop, nonsense |
In the word 'maldevelopment'
from the essay, the prefix 'mal-' makes its meaning negative which means
'faulty or imperfect development'.
C. Make two other words by using each prefix given above and use
them in sentences.
prefix |
words |
Sentence |
mal |
maladjusted, malodorous |
This one had a malodorous quality about it
from the start. If you don't like Snowspinner, you're
socially maladjusted.
|
un |
unabridged, unabashed |
How long will it take to listen to
the unabridged version?
She watched them kissing with unabashed interest.
|
pre |
pre-eminence, previous |
A golfer must accept the preeminence of
the short game. Previous American presidents tried to make the
world safe for democracy.
|
dis |
discolour, disobedient
|
The blue dye is edible and does
not discolour upon heating. The children in her charge were spoilt and
often disobedient.
|
re |
renamed, re-elect
|
The stadium was renamed after the late
Robert F . Kennedy. The committee voted to re-elect him (as) chairman. |
de |
de-stress, deiced
|
Helping destress people there might
already solve their problems. The plane, which was being deiced, completed
its flight.
|
mis |
misaligned , misguided
|
The engineer has said he braked after
spotting misaligned rails ahead. It's just a misguided policy . |
in |
Indeed, individual
|
Indeed, a few analysts say the rally is already
here. But such individual rights, by definition,
end with death.
|
il |
illumination, illustrate |
They rarely include sculpture or painting, apart
from book illumination. Marketing tactics by some private
companies illustrate one reason for concern.
|
im |
immature |
Try to look thoughtful, but immature at
the same time. It's almost impossible to address.
|
ir |
ironic, irritations
|
It's totally ironic that I design clothes. Here's my list of the most offensive
online irritations.
|
non |
non verbal, Nonetheless
|
This child was non verbal and awkwardly
ambulant. Nonetheless, she found her own biography revealed in
the process.
|
Unacceptable-
Raising taxes now would be politically unacceptable.
Deactivate-
He doesn’t know how deactivate the alarm.
Comprehension
Answer these questions.
a.
What did Maathai decide to do for the community?
Maathai
decided to create jobs for the community but it never worked.
b.
Mention the problems faced by women in Kenya.
The
women were facing problems of firewood, malnutrition, lack of food and adequate
water, unemployment and soil erosion in Kenya.
c.
Why did the speaker go to the women to talk about planting trees?
The
speaker went to the women to talk about planting trees because the women were
most affected by the problems and concerned about children and future.
d.
What is the most important achievement of the movement described in the text?
The
women were independent, acquired knowledge and techniques, become empowered and
shared knowledge with each other.
e.
Why were the foresters’ ways not helpful to the women for planting trees?
The
foresters’ ways were not helpful to the women for planting trees because they
have complicated method of dealing with a very simple thing.
f.
When and how did she start The Green Belt Movement?
She
started The Green Belt Movement on World Environment Day, June 5, 1977 by
planting the first seven trees.
g.
Why do the donors want to provide money to the women?
The
donors want to provide money to the women because the efforts are providing
results.
h.
What happened when the speaker criticized the political leadership?
When
the speaker criticized the political leadership they took away her office and
stop providing funds.
i.
Mention the agencies that supported her movement.
The
agencies that supported her movement are the United Nations Development Fund
for Women, the Danish Voluntary Fund, the Norwegian Agency for International
Development, the African Development Foundation.
Critical thinking
a. Do you think that the title “Foresters without Diplomas” is
suitable to the essay? How?
The
title "Foresters without Diplomas" aptly captures the essence of the
essay, which revolves around the efforts made by women in Kenya to ensure the
success of The Green Belt Movement. The essayist and her team faced challenges
when they initially sought help from formally educated foresters to teach the
women how to plant trees. The foresters, with their diplomas, proved to be
problematic as they approached the simple task of tree planting with complex
methods and rigid techniques.
Instead
of empowering the women, the foresters seemed to complicate the process with
their formal education and lack of practical understanding of the local
context. They struggled to connect with the women and convey the knowledge
effectively. As a result, the women felt discouraged and disempowered.
Realizing
the need for a different approach, the essayist and her team decided to teach
the women using common sense and practical methods. They empowered the women to
learn from their own experiences and observations, enabling them to identify
seeds in the neighborhood and recognize seedlings as they germinated naturally.
By trusting their instincts and learning from one another, the women took
ownership of the tree planting process.
The
women's ability to adapt and learn without formal diplomas showcased their
resilience and resourcefulness. They proved to be "foresters without diplomas"
in the truest sense, as they embraced a more practical and sustainable approach
to tree planting. Their knowledge and skills were gained through hands-on
experience and shared wisdom, emphasizing the importance of local knowledge and
community-based learning.
This
transformation from relying on educated foresters to becoming self-sufficient
tree planters highlights the power of community-led initiatives and the
strength of collective learning. The women's success in growing trees not only
benefitted the environment but also empowered them economically and socially.
Their newfound skills and knowledge allowed them to take charge of their own
destinies, making them active participants in the conservation efforts of The
Green Belt Movement.
In
conclusion, the title "Foresters without Diplomas" encapsulates the
central theme of the essay, emphasizing the ingenuity and resilience of the
women in Kenya who became successful tree planters without relying on formal
education. Their ability to learn from their environment and from one another
serves as a powerful testament to the potential of community-based learning and
the importance of practical wisdom in environmental conservation efforts.
b. Can a person make a difference in a society? Discuss with an
example from a person who has made a difference in your society.
The idea of making a
difference in society may seem daunting, but it is not impossible. If
individuals collectively strive to better their communities, great achievements
can be attained. Improving society goes beyond implementing proper rules; it
involves kindness, generosity, social work, and a sense of responsibility
towards others. Those who prioritize the welfare of others over personal gain
can make a significant impact on the lives of many. A shining example of such a
person is my neighbor, Dr. Govinda KC.
Dr. Govinda KC is a
renowned surgeon working in a government hospital. His exceptional skills have
earned him recognition as one of the best surgeons in the city. However, what
truly sets him apart is his compassionate and altruistic nature. Every three
months, he selflessly organizes mobile clinic campaigns in different parts of
our district, providing medical care to those who cannot afford expensive
treatments. Additionally, he arranges free medical treatment for individuals
suffering from chronic illnesses, effectively saving numerous lives.
Despite his professional
success, Dr. Govinda KC remains humble and unpretentious. He prioritizes
humanity above all else, and his actions reflect his genuine concern for the
well-being of others. His unwavering dedication to serving the underprivileged
has earned him admiration from various organizations, which have recognized his
significant contributions to society. As a neighbor, we feel an immense sense
of pride in having such an exceptional individual in our community.
Dr. Govinda KC's
selfless acts inspire us all to take up the responsibility of making a positive
impact on society. His exemplary actions demonstrate that one person's commitment
and compassion can create a ripple effect, transforming the lives of those in
need. He exemplifies the idea that even a single individual, with a deep sense
of empathy and a genuine desire to help others, can bring about remarkable
changes and contribute to the betterment of society.
In conclusion, making a
difference in society requires selflessness, compassion, and a strong sense of
responsibility towards others. Dr. Govinda KC's dedication to serving the less
fortunate through his medical expertise exemplifies the power of individual
actions to uplift and transform communities. His impact serves as a reminder
that each one of us has the potential to make a positive difference and create
a more compassionate and thriving society.
Writing
Personal
letters
A.
Study the given letter and underline sender's address, date, greeting and
complimentary close.
27 Barnes Avenue,
London
March 1st, 2020
Dear Mrs.
MacDonald,
As you know, we
have been in the flat now for six months. We like it, but I'm afraid there are
a few problems.
First, a good deal
of the furniture is rather old. The armchairs, for example, are in bad
condition and so is the big table where we eat. Could you please replace these
items?
Secondly, the flat
is extremely cold in winter. The central heating doesn't work very well and we
have to use electric fires. And they are expensive, of course. Part of the
problem is the windows. They don't fit very well, so they let the wind in.
Finally, there's
the kitchen. It really does need painting. We are quite prepared to do the work
ourselves if you pay for the paint.
Can you possibly
come and look at the flat yourself? I'm sure you will agree with us. In any
case, please let us know about these things as soon as possible.
Yours sincerely,
Sandra Shaw
B.
Suppose you are MacDonald. Write a reply to Sandra Shaw.
27 Barnes Avenue,
London
March 21st, 2020
Dear Sandra Shaw,
I hope this letter
finds you well. Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback regarding
the flat at 27 Barnes Avenue. I apologize for any inconveniences you've
experienced and assure you that we value your comfort and satisfaction as
tenants.
I have taken note
of the issues you've mentioned, and I assure you that we will address them
promptly. Regarding the furniture, we will arrange to replace the worn-out
armchairs and the dining table. Our team will work on finding suitable
replacements that meet your preferences and the overall aesthetic of the flat.
I understand your
concern about the heating system, and I assure you that we will have it
thoroughly checked and serviced to ensure it functions optimally during the
winter months. Additionally, we will have a professional inspect the windows
and make necessary adjustments to prevent any further drafts and improve energy
efficiency.
Regarding the
kitchen, I appreciate your willingness to paint it yourselves. We will be happy
to cover the cost of the paint, and once you've completed the work, please do
share some photographs with us so we can appreciate your efforts.
As for a personal
visit, I am currently out of town, but I assure you that our maintenance team
will visit the flat soon to assess the mentioned issues.
Thank you for
bringing these matters to our attention. We are committed to providing a
comfortable and enjoyable living experience for all our tenants, and your
feedback is invaluable in helping us achieve this goal.
If you have any
other concerns or questions, please feel free to reach out to us anytime. We
will do our best to resolve all matters promptly.
Yours sincerely,
MacDonald
Property
Management
C.
Write an essay on 'The Community Forest in Nepal'. Describe how these community
forests have contributed to maintain ecology in our environment.
The Community Forest in
Nepal
The Community Forestry
Program has emerged as a successful and participatory approach for forest
conservation and management in Nepal. This innovative program empowers local
communities by granting them authority to manage and utilize forest resources
sustainably. Various studies have highlighted the potential benefits that
community forestry generates, such as preventing environmental degradation and
promoting the wise utilization of forest resources.
At the core of the
community forestry approach lies the principle of decentralization, giving user
groups within the community the ability to make decisions regarding forest
products and their utilization. Local communities can now use forest resources
to generate income, as they are actively involved in selling forest products.
This not only boosts the economic well-being of the communities but also
encourages community development activities that directly impact lower-income
households, enabling them to generate daily livelihoods.
The positive impact of
community forestry on biodiversity conservation in Nepal is remarkable. As the
responsibility for managing forests has been handed over to local communities,
the condition of forests has significantly improved. Trees planted in
once-barren lands have played a crucial role in minimizing natural disasters
such as landslides and soil erosion. Additionally, the management of community
forests has resulted in increased biomass, carbon stock, and soil organic
carbon, thus contributing to the fight against climate change. The community
forestry approach has created and enhanced wildlife habitats, leading to a rise
in the number of wild animals and birds, benefiting the ecological balance.
Nepal has now become a
leader in community-based forest management, with the Community Forestry
Program driving direct progress in environmental preservation and
socio-economic upliftment of marginalized communities. However, for the program
to achieve even greater success and popularity, it should adopt a socially
binding and technically sound approach to conservation and utilization of
forest resources.
In conclusion, the
Community Forestry Program in Nepal stands as a beacon of successful forest
conservation and management through community participation. By empowering
local communities and making them key stakeholders in forest management
decisions, the program has not only prevented environmental degradation but
also improved the socio-economic conditions of the people. The program's
achievements in biodiversity conservation, ecological balance, and community
development underscore the importance of community-led initiatives in promoting
sustainable and responsible forest management practices. As Nepal continues to
embrace and expand its community forestry approach, the nation is poised to
make significant strides towards a greener and more sustainable future.
Best of Luck
Extra Question
Read the
PASSAGE and answer the questions. [15]
Human milk is biologically specific for human babies. Simply put, this means that each species of mammal makes milk that is uniquely suited for its young. Cow’s milk is high in protein and minerals because baby calves are up and running within hours after birth-rapid muscle and bone growth is necessary for their survival. In contrast, the human survival organ is the brain. Human milk is high in factors that promote brain growth. This means that children who were breastfed tend to score higher on IQ* tests, due to the beneficial effects of human milk on neurodevelopment. As a side note: why not choose a mammal closer to humans to provide an artificial milk supplement for human infants-a primate, perhaps? Can you imagine a gorilla sitting passively, attached to a milking machine like a cow? Not very likely, but kind of fun to think about.
Human milk contains enzymes, hormones, and immunoglobulin that simply can’t be duplicated in formula, although formula manufacturers keep trying. They advertise that their brand is “most like mother’s milk”, but even they agree that breast milk is the best. Look on the can of formula-it says so right on the label. Since breast milk is always raw and fresh, you don’t lose any the nutrients that are destroyed in formula processing. Breast milk is living tissue that changes to meet your baby’s nutritional needs, and to protect him against disease. . The fat content of human milk varies month to month, day to day, and even hour to hour. For example, the milk produced for a premature infant is higher in protein and calories than milk produced for a full-term infant, giving the tiny baby what it needs to catch up on growth. In cold climates, human milk contains more fat-in warm climates, more water. If your baby is very hungry, he nurses more vigorously and receives more fatty milk. If the baby is just thirsty, he feeds more leisurely and receives lower calorie milk. As he gets older, the fat content of the milk will gradually decrease because his growth will slow, and he will need fewer calories per pound of weight. Standards for formula are based on data about pooled human milk, so every serving of formula is the same. Human milk constantly adjusts during the whole time your baby is nursing.
Human milk also changes to protect your baby against germs. This is especially important during the first six months of life while his immature system is gradually building his own supply of germ fighting elements, or immunoglobulin. You provide these through your milk for as long as you breastfeed. If you or your baby is exposed to a germ, your milk begins producing antibodies which protect him from the same germs. The white cells in your milk produce a special protein which coats his intestines, preventing the passage of harmful germs from his intestinal tract into his bloodstream. The concentration of antibodies in your milk actually increases as your infant gets older and nurses less often, thus continuing to provide protection as long as you nurse.
Breast milk contains antiviral, antibacterial and antifungal factors as well as antibodies to many specific disease organisms. Breastfed babies have a lower incidence of infection, anemia, diarrhea, meningitis, diabetes, gastroenteritis, asthma, constipation, allergies, dental and speech problems, childhood cancer, pulmonary disease, cataracts, high cholesterol, and many more. Artificially fed babies are three to four times as likely as bottle-fed infants to suffer from ear infections and lower respiratory infections, and sixteen times more likely to be sick during the first two months of life.
Let’s not forget the importance of the emotional security and closeness to mother than nursing infants enjoy. Anyone who has ever seen a baby blissfully drifting off to sleep while nursing, or being comforted at the breast during periods of stress, knows that breastfeeding offers much more than nutritional and immunological advantages. Breastfeeding ensures that the baby will have lots of physical contact with its mother-there is no way to ‘prop’ a breast! Rather than making babies more dependent , studies have shown that nursing makes babies more independent as they grow up , since their needs have been met so effectively while they infants.
1. Answer the following questions:
a) Apart from nutritional and immunological advantages, what does a breastfed baby feel with his mother?
b) Can you duplicate human milk into formula? Give your reason.
c) Give a reason why human milk is better than formula?
d) Give two advantages of breast milk?
e) How does a hungry baby suck mother’s breast?
f) How does breast-feed help to be babies more independent?
g) Is mother’s milk good for babies?
h) What contains breast milk?
i) What do the white cells in human milk produce?
j) What does breastfeeding ensure the baby?
k) What does human milk contain?
l) What does IQ stand for?
m) What risks involve with artificially fed babies in the first two months of their lives?
n) When your baby grows older, why will the fat content of your milk gradually decrease?
o) Which milk is the best milk?
p) Who needs fewer calories?
q) Who needs higher dose in protein and calories?
r) Why do breastfed babies have a lower incidence of infection than artificially fed babies?
s) Why does child need human milk?
t) Why does the living tissue of breastmilk change?
u) Why the baby calves are up and running within hours?
v) Write the names of five diseases mentioned in the passage.
2. Write ‘T’ for true and ‘F’ for false for the following statements:
a) A breastfeeding baby feels emotional security and closeness to mother.
b) Anemia means having a lot of red blood cells in human body.
c) Antibodies protect from the harmful germs.
d) Breast mild contains antiviral factors.
e) Breastfeeding makes babies more dependent as they grow up.
f) Cow is not a mammal.
g) Cow’s milk is high in protein and minerals.
h) Human milk has low nutrients than cow’s milk.
i) Human milk is biologically specific for human babies.
j) Human milk is living tissue.
k) In cold climate human milk contains more water.
l) The fat content of human milk always remains the same.
m) The human survival organ is heart.
3. Find out the similar words from the above passage of the following words:
a) advantageous
b) attention
c) damaged
d) delightfully
e) encourage
f) fast
g) feelings
h) hurtful
i) mental pressure
j) nearness
k) not cooked
l) perfect happiness
m) product
n) requirement
o) swift
4. Find the words or phrases in the poem that are opposite to the following words:
a) death
b) dependent
c) distance
d) find
e) general
f) grown up
g) irregularly
h) mental
i) partial
j) remember
k) saved
l) useful