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IV Semester B.B.A. / B. Com. (NEP) Degree Examination, September/
October-2023
English (AECC)
(Regular)
Time: 2 Hours Maximum Marks: 60
Text: Wrings of Fire- Abdul Kalam
I. Answer any Five of the following questions in a sentence or
two. (5x2=10)
1) Who were Abdul Kalam’s school friends?
Ans:
Ramanadha Sastry, Aravindan, Sivaprakasan
2) Which was the most widely read newspaper in Rameshwaram?
Ans:
Dinamani
3) Why did Kalam’s father quote Khalil Gibran?
Ans: To explain that her
children are not her own, but rather the children of life’s need for itself.
4) When did India’s first rocket launch take place?
Ans:
November 21, 1963
5) What is the full form of ISRO?
Ans:
Indian Space Research Organisation
6) Who called the Agni launch “a major achievement in our
continuing efforts to safeguard our independence and security by self-reliant
means?”
Ans:
Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi
7) What is the full name of Abdul Kalam?
Ans:
Avul Pakir Jainulabdeen Abdul Kalam
II. Answer any two of the following (2x5=10)
1) Describe Abdul Kalam’s days at Schwartz High School.
Ans: While Abdul Kalam is remembered as a brilliant scientist and inspiring
leader, information about his specific experiences at Schwartz Higher Secondary
School is somewhat limited. According to some sources, teachers at Schwartz
High School considered Abdul Kalam an average student. His grades were likely
not exceptional. Despite not being a
standout academically, Abdul Kalam was known for his strong work ethic and
determination. The headmaster, Paul Maran, described him as a boy who grew in
confidence during his time at Schwartz. He likely laid the foundation for his
future success through his dedication to learning.
One teacher, Solomon, is credited with inspiring young Kalam. Solomon
instilled in him the power of education and the importance of hard work to
achieve one's goals. This early encouragement likely played a role in shaping
Kalam's aspirations. While specific
details are lacking, it's safe to assume Kalam spent a significant portion of
his time at Schwartz High School focused on his studies. The curriculum likely
included subjects like mathematics, science, history, and literature, which
would have provided a foundation for his future endeavors.
Information on extracurricular activities is unavailable, but it's
possible Kalam participated in sports, debates, or other school functions.
These activities can help develop teamwork, communication skills, and
leadership qualities, all of which would have been valuable later in life. His
time at Schwartz High School might have sparked his early interest in science
and technology. Perhaps he participated in science fairs, conducted
experiments, or read books that ignited his passion for these fields.
Overall, while details are scarce, we can glean that Abdul Kalam's days
at Schwartz High School were a period of academic development, personal growth,
and inspiration that laid the groundwork for his future achievements.
2) Sketch the character of Jainulabdeen.
Ans:
Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam had
many sterling qualities right from his childhood. He was born in a middle –
class Muslim family in 1931 in the island town of Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu. He
had immense affection and respect for his parents. He inherited the values of
honesty and self-discipline from his father and faith in goodness and deep
kindness from his mother. Kalam was an enterprising and hard-working child.
From an early age he started supporting his family financially. He did every
piece of work assigned to him with full dedication. He was also a sensitive
child and learnt valuable lessons from his experiences. He learnt early in life
that caste-based segregation is a poison that must not be allowed to flourish.
There are countless contributions of Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam to the country. He is
counted among the greatest scientists of the 21st century. For his involvement
in the Nuclear power in India, he was known as “Missile Man of India”. Even
more, he became the 11th president of India and served his country. He was
awarded with the highest civilian award by the Government.
3) Describe briefly the launch of Agni.
Ans:
The Agni missile series is
a family of Indian intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) developed by the
Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).
First Launch: The first test launch of
an Agni missile, likely the Agni-I, occurred in April 19, 2012. It was
successfully launched from the Integrated Test Range in Odisha and traveled a
designated distance over the Indian Ocean.
Test Launches: Since then, India has
conducted numerous test launches of various Agni missiles with increasing
ranges and capabilities. These launches are typically conducted from the
Integrated Test Range at Chandipur in Odisha.
Secrecy: Due to security reasons,
specific details about launch dates, locations, and targeted distances for Agni
missile tests are often not publicly disclosed. However, successful launches
are usually announced by the Indian government or media sources.
Development: The Agni series is
constantly being developed and improved. New versions offer greater range,
accuracy, and payload capacity.
Note: It's important to
distinguish between the launch of a specific Agni missile (e.g., Agni-V) and
the launch of the "Agni" series in general. The first launch refers
to a particular test of a specific missile version, while the latter refers to
the overall development and testing program for the entire Agni family of
missiles.
III. 1) “Wings of Fire” is not Just a story of A.P.J Abdul
Kalam’s life, but it is also a source of inspiration for millions of people
around the world’. Discuss.
Ans:
"Wings of Fire": Beyond a Biography, a Flame of Inspiration
Dr. A.P.J Abdul Kalam's autobiography, "Wings of Fire,"
transcends the genre of a simple life story, igniting a spark of inspiration
within millions across the globe. Its impact lies in its potent blend of
personal struggles, unwavering determination, and a profound love for India.
Inspiring Elements of the Book:
From Humble Beginnings to Greatness:
Kalam's journey from a modest background to
becoming the President of India exemplifies the power of hard work and
dedication. It motivates readers to pursue their dreams regardless of
their circumstances.
Overcoming Challenges:
The book chronicles Kalam's encounters with
failures and setbacks, demonstrating his resilience and ability to rise above
adversity. This inspires readers to face their own challenges with courage
and perseverance.
Patriotism and Vision for India:
Kalam's unwavering love for his nation and his
vision for a developed India are deeply embedded in the narrative. This
instills a sense of national pride and motivates readers to contribute to their
country's progress.
Simple Living and High Thinking:
Kalam's life of simplicity and his emphasis on
values like integrity and honesty resonate deeply with readers. He
inspires them to lead meaningful lives guided by strong moral principles.
Power of Dreams and Vision:
The book emphasizes the importance of dreaming big
and having a clear vision for the future. Kalam's own journey serves as a
testament to the transformative power of dreams when pursued with passion and
determination.
Global Impact:
"Wings of Fire" has transcended national boundaries, inspiring
readers from diverse backgrounds and cultures. Its message of hope,
perseverance, and dedication resonates with young minds globally, encouraging
them to reach for their full potential.
Conclusion:
"Wings of Fire" is more than just a chronicle of Dr. Kalam's
life; it is a timeless source of inspiration that continues to ignite the
minds and hearts of millions. The book serves as a powerful reminder that
with hard work, dedication, and a strong moral compass, anything is
achievable. It is a testament to the enduring power of dreams and the
transformative impact of one individual's life on the world.
(OR)
2) Write about SLV 3’s history, its failure, and its ultimate
success.
Ans:
The Story of SLV-3: From
Failure to Triumph
The Satellite Launch Vehicle 3 (SLV-3) was a pivotal project for the
Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), marking its first attempt to launch
a satellite into orbit. Its journey, however, was marked by both setbacks
and ultimate success.
A Dream Takes Flight: Developed in the 1970s, the SLV-3 was a four-stage
solid-fueled rocket designed to carry a 40kg payload into a 400km near-earth
orbit. The project aimed to establish India's independent spacefaring
capabilities.
The Setback: On August 10, 1979, the first launch of SLV-3 took
place. While the initial stages functioned as planned, a malfunction in
the second stage control system occurred at 68 seconds. The vehicle lost
control, deviating from its trajectory and ultimately crashing into the Bay of
Bengal.
Learning from Failure: Despite the disappointment, ISRO meticulously
analyzed the data and identified the cause of the failure – a faulty valve in
the second stage. With remarkable resilience, the team worked tirelessly
to rectify the issue and prepare for a second attempt.
A Moment of Triumph: On July 18, 1980, just a year after the initial
setback, the second launch of SLV-3 unfolded flawlessly. The rocket
successfully placed the Rohini satellite – India's first indigenously built
satellite – into orbit, marking a historic milestone for the nation's space
program.
Beyond the Horizon: The success of SLV-3 paved the way for more advanced
launch vehicles like the ASLV, PSLV, and GSLV, propelling India into the elite
group of spacefaring nations. The project demonstrated the unwavering
spirit of ISRO and its ability to overcome challenges and achieve its goals.
Legacy of Perseverance: The story of SLV-3 serves as a testament to the
power of perseverance and the ability to learn from failures. It continues
to inspire generations of scientists and engineers to strive for excellence and
contribute to India's journey in the cosmos.
IV. Answer any two of the following selecting one from poetry
and one from TED Talks (2x5=10)
1) Critically appreciate the poem ‘Invictus’.
Ans:
"Invictus," meaning "unconquered" in Latin, is a
powerful and inspirational poem by William Ernest Henley. Here's a critical
appreciation of the poem:
Themes:
Resilience: The central theme is the
speaker's unwavering spirit in the face of adversity. He uses powerful imagery
("night", "fell clutch of circumstance", "bludgeonings
of chance") to depict the challenges he faces, but remains defiant
("I am the master of my fate, I am the captain of my soul").
Stoicism: The poem reflects a stoic
philosophy. The speaker acknowledges his difficult circumstances but focuses on
his inner strength and determination to overcome them.
Human Spirit: "Invictus"
celebrates the human spirit's ability to endure hardship and persevere. It
inspires readers to face their own challenges with courage and find strength
within themselves.
Literary Techniques:
Personification:
Night is personified as a dark entity that "covers me" and holds him
in a "fell clutch." This emphasizes the speaker's struggle.
Metaphor: Challenges are
metaphorically described as the "fell clutch of circumstance" and the
"bludgeonings of chance," depicting them as powerful forces.
Repetition: The line "I am the
master of my fate, I am the captain of my soul" is repeated for emphasis.
This reinforces the speaker's unwavering belief in his own control over his
destiny.
Dichotomy: The poem presents a clear
contrast between the darkness of the external situation and the inner strength
of the speaker.
Impact:
Emotional Resonance:
"Invictus" evokes a strong emotional response in readers. It
resonates with those facing their own challenges and offers a sense of hope and
empowerment.
Universality: The themes of resilience,
stoicism, and the human spirit are universal and timeless. The poem speaks to
people across cultures and historical periods.
Enduring Legacy:
"Invictus" remains a popular and widely read poem after more than a
century. It has been adapted for various media and continues to inspire readers
today.
Considerations:
Limited Scope: The poem focuses on the
speaker's internal strength and doesn't address the nature of external
challenges.
Oversimplification?:
Some argue that the poem's portrayal of overcoming adversity as purely a matter
of personal will overlooks the impact of external factors like social
circumstances or external help.
Overall, "Invictus" is a powerful and inspirational poem that
celebrates the human spirit's strength and resilience. While its focus on
individual will might be simplistic, the poem's core message of perseverance
and finding strength within oneself continues to resonate with readers.
2) Explain Dr. Shashi Tharoor’s “Ideas on Education”.
Ans:
The traditional view of
education has often centered on the acquisition of facts, figures, and
structured knowledge. This viewpoint traces its roots to the classical
models of education in ancient Greece and Rome, where subjects like
mathematics, philosophy, and literature were considered essential components of
a well-rounded education.
Throughout history, societies have placed immense importance on
education for several reasons. Education has been seen as a means of
transmitting cultural values, preserving societal knowledge, and preparing
individuals for roles in their communities and, later, in the workforce. It has
been regarded as a means of personal growth, character development, and the
empowerment of individuals to contribute meaningfully to their societies. In
the industrial age, the focus of education shifted towards preparing individuals
for specialized roles in the workforce, emphasizing technical skills and
vocational training. While this shift brought about significant advancements
and economic growth, it also led to a compartmentalized view of
education, with an emphasis on specialization rather than holistic
learning.
Dr. Tharoor’s concept of a well-educated mind challenges us to
reconsider the skills and knowledge that truly matter in a rapidly changing
world. While traditional education has often emphasized rote
memorization and standardized testing, a well-educated
mind seeks to foster a broader range of skills and knowledge, including:
Critical Thinking: A well-educated mind is adept at critically evaluating information,
questioning assumptions, and forming independent judgments. It can discern
between reliable and unreliable sources and think analytically.
Creativity: Beyond
mere memorization, a well-educated mind encourages creativity and innovation.
It values the ability to approach problems from multiple perspectives,
generating novel solutions and ideas.
Communication Skills: Effective communication is crucial in a well-educated mind. This
includes not only verbal and written communication but also active listening
and empathy, enabling constructive dialogue and collaboration.
Adaptability: In
a rapidly changing world, adaptability is a vital skill. A well-educated mind
is flexible and open to new ideas, able to adjust to evolving circumstances and
technologies.
Ethical and Moral Understanding: A well-educated mind is guided by ethical and moral principles. It
understands the consequences of actions and decisions and values empathy,
compassion, and social responsibility.
Global Awareness: In an increasingly interconnected world, global awareness is essential.
A well-educated mind recognizes the interdependence of nations and cultures,
fostering a sense of global citizenship and a commitment to addressing global
challenges.
Lifelong Learning: Finally, a well-educated mind understands that learning is a lifelong
journey. It values curiosity and continuous self-improvement, staying engaged
with new developments in various fields.
In sum, a well-educated mind, as envisioned by Dr. Shashi Tharoor,
transcends the confines of traditional education. It is characterized by a rich
blend of critical thinking, creativity, adaptability, and a deep sense of
ethical responsibility. It equips individuals not just with knowledge but with
the skills and mindset needed to navigate the complexities of the modern world
and contribute meaningfully to society.
V. 1) Write a note on the growing significance of the Pechakucha
Presentation. (1x5=5)
Ans:
The Rise of the PechaKucha Presentation
The PechaKucha presentation format, derived from the Japanese term for
"chit chat," is gaining traction for several reasons:
Focus and Concision: Limited to 20 slides shown for 20 seconds each,
PechaKucha presentations force presenters to be clear and concise. This ensures
the audience gets the key message without information overload.
Engagement and Dynamism: The fast-paced format keeps the audience
engaged and prevents presenters from rambling. The focus on visuals with
minimal text encourages a more dynamic and impactful delivery.
Storytelling and Creativity: PechaKucha presentations lend themselves
well to storytelling, allowing presenters to connect with the audience on an
emotional level. This is particularly attractive for creative fields where
visuals play a central role.
Accessibility and Practice: The format is easy to adopt, requiring
minimal technical expertise. It's a valuable tool for students to hone their
presentation skills and practice delivering concise, impactful messages.
Informal Gatherings and Knowledge Sharing: PechaKucha nights, informal
gatherings featuring a series of PechaKucha presentations, are becoming
increasingly popular. They provide a platform for diverse ideas and foster a
sense of community.
While not a replacement for traditional presentations, the PechaKucha
format offers a unique and valuable approach for communication in today's
fast-paced world. Its emphasis on clarity, engagement, and storytelling is
likely to propel its continued growth.
(OR)
2) What is Group Discussion? Explain its advantages.
Ans:
A group discussion is a structured conversation where a group of
individuals come together to exchange ideas, share experiences, and delve into
a specific topic or problem. It's essentially a collaborative exploration of a
subject through open discussion.
There are several advantages to participating in group discussions:
Exchange of Ideas and Diverse Perspectives: Group discussions bring together people with
different backgrounds and experiences. This allows for a richer exploration of
the topic as participants share their unique viewpoints. It fosters
cross-pollination of ideas and can spark creativity through exposure to new
perspectives.
Enhanced Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving: The act of listening to others' arguments
and defending your own position encourages critical thinking. You're forced to
analyze your own beliefs, weigh the merits of opposing viewpoints, and refine
your arguments. This process can lead to better problem-solving approaches.
Improved Communication Skills: Group discussions provide a platform to practice expressing yourself
clearly and concisely. You learn to actively listen, negotiate ideas, and build
consensus within a group setting. These are all valuable communication skills
that benefit you in various aspects of life.
Deeper Understanding and Knowledge Sharing: Active participation in a discussion often
leads to a deeper understanding of the topic. By explaining concepts to others
and being challenged by their questions, you solidify your own knowledge and
gain insights you might have missed on your own.
Developing Teamwork and Collaboration: Group discussions are a mini-exercise in teamwork. You learn to
collaborate with others, navigate different personalities, and work towards a
common goal – a well-rounded understanding of the topic at hand.
VI. 1) Write a brief note on your travelling experience. (1x5=5)
Ans:
An Unforgettable Goan
Adventure
Goa was a feast for the
senses! The moment I stepped onto the [North/South] Goan beach, the sound of
the waves crashing and the warm breeze on my skin were incredibly relaxing.
[If you went for
relaxation] I spent my days soaking up the sun on the beach,
[swimming/reading/enjoying water sports]. The evenings were filled with
delicious seafood meals and [watching the sunset/exploring the nightlife].
[If you were more
adventurous] I ventured beyond the beaches, exploring the [spice
plantations/caves/waterfalls] and experiencing the rich cultural heritage of
[Old Goa/temples/churches].
Highlights of the Trip
(Mention a specific beach
you enjoyed and why)
(Describe a particular
activity you found memorable)
(Share a cultural
experience that left an impression)
(Talk about a local dish
you savored)
Goa's laid-back charm,
stunning beauty, and [welcoming people/exciting activities] made it an
unforgettable experience. I would highly recommend it to anyone seeking
[relaxation/adventure/cultural immersion].
Tips for Future Travelers
(Share any insights or
recommendations for future travelers based on your experience)
(OR)
2) Write an article on the flood situation in Karnataka.
Ans:
Karnataka Prepares
for Potential Floods as Pre-Monsoon Rains Lash the State
While the monsoon
season in India officially arrives in June, Karnataka is already experiencing
heavy pre-monsoon showers, raising concerns about flooding in the state. The
Karnataka State Natural Disaster Monitoring Centre (KSNDMC) has identified
areas particularly susceptible to flooding and issued warnings.
Areas on Alert
The Bengaluru
metropolitan area, the state's capital and IT hub, is a major concern. The
KSNDMC has classified 28 areas in the city as "severely vulnerable"
to flooding due to overflowing storm water drains. Other districts, including
Belagavi, Dharwad, Uttara Kannada, and Udupi, located in the coastal and hilly
regions, are also on high alert.
Past Floods and Lessons Learned
Karnataka has a
history of devastating floods, particularly during the southwest monsoon
season. In 2022, the state experienced its fifth consecutive year of floods and
landslides. These events caused significant damage to infrastructure, displaced
residents, and resulted in loss of life.
The state
government is taking steps to mitigate flood risks. This includes strengthening
embankments, clearing drainage channels, and relocating people in high-risk
zones. Additionally, authorities are working to improve flood forecasting and
early warning systems.
Looking Ahead
While the current
pre-monsoon showers are a cause for concern, it's important to note that timely
action and preparedness can significantly reduce flood damage. Residents in
flood-prone areas are advised to stay vigilant, follow weather updates, and
heed instructions from local authorities.
This article will
be updated as the situation unfolds and more information becomes available.
VII. 1) Draft a congratulatory e-mail copy to your friend on his
success in the IAS examination. (1x5=5)
Ans:
Subject: OMG!! You CRACKED the IAS!!!
Hey
[Friend's Name],
I just
heard the AMAZING news - you cleared the IAS exam!! I'm absolutely thrilled for
you, this is a HUGE accomplishment!
All
those late nights studying, endless cups of coffee, and unwavering dedication
have truly paid off. I knew you could do it! Your hard work and perseverance
are an inspiration.
This
is such a prestigious achievement, and I can't wait to see what incredible
things you'll accomplish as an IAS officer. You're going to make a real
difference in the world!
Let's
celebrate soon! Drinks are on me - how about [suggest a date and time]? We can
finally have that victory party we've been talking about.
Congratulations
again, my friend! I'm so incredibly proud of you.
Best,
(OR)
2) Draft a leave letter to be sent Via-email, to your class teacher,
citing reasons for your sudden illness.
Ans:
Subject: Leave of
Absence - [Your Name] - [Grade Level]
Dear [Teacher's
Name],
I am writing to
inform you that I will be absent from school today, [Date], due to a sudden
illness. I woke up this morning feeling unwell with [briefly describe
symptoms].
I apologize for
any inconvenience this may cause. I will be sure to catch up on any missed work
as soon as possible.
I will check my
school email for any assignments or announcements and would appreciate it if
you could let me know of anything important, I miss in class today.
Thank you for your
understanding.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Grade Level]
VIII. 1) Write a note on Podcast. (1x5=5)
Ans:
Podcasts:
On-Demand Audio Entertainment and Learning
Podcasts are a
form of digital audio content, similar to talk radio, but with greater
flexibility and variety. Here's a breakdown of what podcasts are and why
they've become so popular:
On-Demand Listening: Unlike
traditional radio, podcasts are available anytime, anywhere. You can subscribe
to shows and download episodes to listen to at your own pace, whether
commuting, exercising, or relaxing at home.
Wide Range of Topics: Podcasts cover an
incredibly diverse range of topics. From news and current events to true crime,
comedy, fiction, and deep dives into specific hobbies or interests, there's a
podcast out there for everyone.
Engaging Format: Podcasts can be
informative, entertaining, or both. They often feature conversations between
hosts and guests, interviews with experts, or dramatic storytelling.
Accessibility and Ease of Use:
Podcasts are typically free or very affordable. You can listen to them using a
variety of apps on your smartphone, tablet, or computer.
Building Communities: Podcasts can
foster a sense of community. Listeners can connect with others who share their
interests, discuss the latest episode, and engage with the show's creators.
(OR)
2) Explain the importance of Blog writing.
Ans:
Blog writing holds significant importance in today's digital world,
offering a multitude of benefits for both individuals and businesses. Here's a
breakdown of why blog writing is so important:
1. Increased Visibility and Brand Awareness: Blogs act as magnets, drawing in readers
interested in your niche. Consistent, high-quality content creation makes your
blog more discoverable in search engines, leading to increased website traffic
and brand awareness.
2. Establishing Expertise and Thought Leadership: Sharing valuable insights and industry
knowledge through your blog positions you as a thought leader in your field.
This builds trust and credibility with your audience, making them more
receptive to your ideas and offerings.
3. Improved SEO and Search Engine Ranking: Blogs allow you to incorporate relevant
keywords and optimize content for search engines. This increases the chances of
your website appearing at the top of search results for specific queries,
driving organic traffic.
4. Valuable Content for Social Media Marketing: Blog posts provide a steady stream of
content to share on social media platforms. Engaging and informative blog
articles can spark conversations, attract new followers, and strengthen your
social media presence.
5. Lead Generation and Customer Acquisition: Blogs can be powerful tools for lead
generation. By strategically placing calls to action within your content, you
can encourage readers to subscribe to your email list, download resources, or
contact you for services.
6. Building Relationships and Community: Blogs foster a two-way communication
channel. Readers can leave comments, ask questions, and engage in discussions.
This interaction helps build relationships with your audience and creates a
sense of community around your brand.
7. Establishing Yourself as an Authority: Regularly producing well-researched and
informative blog posts demonstrates your knowledge and expertise in a
particular field. This can position you as a go-to resource for valuable
insights and advice.
8. Cost-Effective Marketing Tool: Compared to traditional marketing methods, blogging is a relatively
inexpensive way to reach a large audience. By creating valuable content, you
can attract and nurture leads without breaking the bank.
9. Improved Communication and Writing Skills: The process of writing blog posts hones your
communication and writing skills. You learn to express complex ideas clearly
and concisely, making you a more effective communicator overall.
10. Opportunity to Showcase Your Personality: Blogs allow you to inject your unique voice
and personality into your writing. This can help you connect with your audience
on a deeper level and make your content more engaging.
In conclusion, blog writing offers a powerful set of tools for
individuals and businesses to achieve their goals. From building brand
awareness to establishing expertise and generating leads, consistent and
strategic blog writing can yield significant benefits in today's digital
landscape.
