IV Semester B. Com. (NEP) Degree Examination, August/ September- 2024
Generic English (AECC) - (Regular/
Repeater)
Time: 2 Hours Maximum
Marks: 60 Text: Wings of Fire
1. Answer any FIVE of the following questions in a
sentence or two. (5x2=10)
a) Where was APJ Kalam born?
Ans: APJ Abdul Kalam was born in
Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu, on October 15, 1931.
b) Who was Kalam’s Mathematics teacher?
Ans: Kalam’s Mathematics teacher was
Iyadurai Solomon, who encouraged him to overcome challenges and instilled
self-confidence in him.
c)
Which institution was regarded the Crown Jewel of technical education in South
India?
Ans: The Madras Institute of Technology
(MIT) was regarded as the Crown Jewel of technical education in South India,
where Kalam studied aeronautical engineering.
d) What is meant by NASA?
Ans: NASA stands for National Aeronautics
and Space Administration, the U.S. government agency responsible for the
nation’s civilian space program and for aeronautics and aerospace research.
e) When did Kalam’s father pass away?
Ans: Kalam’s father passed away in 1950,
when Kalam was still a young man.
f) When did India’s first SLV 3 lift off from SHAR?
Ans: India’s first SLV-3 (Satellite Launch
Vehicle) lifted off from SHAR (Sriharikota Range) on July 18, 1980.
g) What was the tremendous loss to the scientific
community?
Ans: The tremendous loss to the scientific
community refers to the passing of Dr. Vikram Sarabhai, the father of the
Indian space program, which deeply affected Kalam and other scientists in
India.
2. Answer any TWO of the following (2x5=10)
a)
Narrate Kalam’s childhood and the influences of Kalam during his childhood.
Ans: APJ Abdul Kalam was born into a
middle-class Muslim family in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu. His father, Jainulabdeen,
was a boat owner and imam at the local mosque, and his mother, Ashiamma, was a
homemaker. Despite financial limitations, Kalam’s family provided a supportive
environment. Kalam was deeply influenced by his father’s simplicity,
spirituality, and honesty. His mother’s kindness and care for others also
shaped his personality. Kalam’s teachers, especially Iyadurai Solomon,
were significant influences, encouraging him to pursue education and believe in
his capabilities. He also admired Pakshi Lakshmana Sastry, the
high priest of Rameswaram temple, who exemplified unity and mutual respect
among different religions. These early influences ingrained in Kalam the values
of humility, dedication, and communal harmony.
b) Write about SLV 3’s history, its failure and its
ultimate success.
Ans: The Satellite Launch
Vehicle-3 (SLV-3) was India’s first attempt to develop an indigenous
space launch vehicle. It was designed to carry a small satellite into space,
marking a significant milestone for India's space program. Dr. APJ
Abdul Kalam was the project director for SLV-3. The first launch of
SLV-3 in August 1979 ended in failure due to a technical
malfunction shortly after liftoff, resulting in the satellite not reaching
orbit. This failure was a major setback, but Kalam and his team worked tirelessly
to rectify the issues. The perseverance paid off when, on July 18, 1980,
SLV-3 successfully launched and deployed the Rohini Satellite
into orbit, making India a member of the exclusive club of spacefaring nations.
This success laid the foundation for India's future achievements in space
exploration.
c) Why was the Nandi project abandoned?
Ans:
The Nandi project was an initiative by the Hindustan
Aeronautics Limited (HAL) to develop a hovercraft (an air-cushion
vehicle) in India. Kalam, as a young engineer, worked on this project and even
presented a prototype model. However, the project was ultimately abandoned due
to a lack of support and funding from the Indian Air Force, which found the
technology unsuitable for its defense needs. The project’s closure was
disappointing for Kalam, but it led him to pursue opportunities in the space
sector, shaping his future contributions to India’s missile and space programs.
3.
a) Elaborate on Kalam’s belief in education as a means of empowerment. How did
he inspire young minds to pursue science and innovation? (1x10=10)
Ans: Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam strongly believed
that education is the most powerful tool for empowering
individuals and transforming society. According to him, education was
not just about acquiring degrees or knowledge but about building character,
developing a sense of purpose, and contributing positively to society. He
believed that a well-educated population could lead a nation towards
prosperity, innovation, and social justice. For Kalam, education was a means to
ignite the minds of young people, enabling them to dream big
and work hard to achieve their goals.
Throughout his life, Dr. Kalam dedicated
himself to inspiring young minds to pursue science,
technology, and innovation. He often interacted with students,
delivering lectures and writing books that encouraged them to think creatively,
ask questions, and explore the mysteries of the universe. One of his most
famous quotes, "Dream, dream, dream. Dreams transform into
thoughts and thoughts result in action," reflects his belief that
imagination and ambition are the first steps toward
success. He emphasized the importance of a curious mind and encouraged students
to believe in themselves, no matter their background or circumstances.
Kalam’s message to young people was clear: education
and hard work can overcome any obstacles. He motivated them to focus
on their goals, be persistent, and contribute to the nation’s progress. His
legacy as an inspirational leader and a teacher continues to
resonate with millions, reminding them that education is not just about
learning but about transforming society through knowledge and
innovation.
(OR)
b)
What does Kalam say about Sarabhai’s contribution to India’s Science programme?
Ans: Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam held Dr.
Vikram Sarabhai in the highest regard and considered him the pioneer
of India’s space program. According to Kalam, Sarabhai had a visionary
approach to science and technology, believing that space technology could
significantly benefit India’s development. Sarabhai understood that scientific
advancements were key to addressing many of the country’s challenges, such as
communication, weather forecasting, and resource management.
Kalam admired how Sarabhai combined scientific rigor
with a humanitarian outlook. He did not view space technology as an end in
itself but as a tool to improve the lives of ordinary people. Sarabhai
envisioned India using its own satellites to improve education and
communication in rural areas, helping to bridge social and economic divides.
His idea was to make science work for the common good, not
just for elite researchers.
Sarabhai was also instrumental in establishing ISRO
(Indian Space Research Organisation), an institution that would go on
to make India a global leader in space technology. He encouraged young
scientists like Kalam to think boldly and work with confidence in the country’s
future. Kalam credits Sarabhai for nurturing a culture of teamwork and
innovation within India’s scientific community, which allowed young scientists
to take ownership of ambitious projects, like launching India’s first
satellite.
In summary, Dr. Kalam believed that Sarabhai’s
greatest contribution was his vision of using science for societal
progress and his ability to inspire a generation of Indian scientists
to dream big and work towards national self-reliance.
4. Answer any TWO of the following selecting one from
poetry and one from TED Talks (2x5=10)
a) Critically appreciate the poem “Invictus”.
Ans: The poem "Invictus" by William Ernest Henley
is a powerful expression of strength, resilience, and the indomitable human
spirit. Written by Henley while he was battling illness, the poem reflects his
determination to remain unconquered despite physical suffering. The word "Invictus"
means "unconquerable", and the poet emphasizes the
idea of self-mastery and courage in the face of adversity. The lines "I am the master of my fate, I
am the captain of my soul" convey a deep sense of personal
responsibility and control over one's destiny. The poem’s tone is defiant yet
hopeful, encouraging readers to stay strong in difficult times. Henley’s use of
vivid imagery, such as the "bludgeonings of chance" and the "horror of the shade", highlights the
trials of life while reinforcing the theme of inner strength. Overall,
“Invictus” serves as an inspiring tribute to human resilience and perseverance.
b) How does Browning present his ideas in “My Last
Duchess”?
Ans: In “My Last Duchess”, Robert Browning
presents the ideas of power, control, and jealousy through the dramatic
monologue of the Duke, who speaks about a portrait of his late wife. The Duke
reveals his possessive and authoritarian nature as he describes how he was
displeased with the Duchess’s behavior, particularly her friendliness towards
others. Browning uses the Duke’s speech to explore themes of dominance and
pride, showing how the Duke viewed his wife as a mere object to control. The
line "I gave commands; then
all smiles stopped together" suggests that the Duke may have
been responsible for her death, reflecting his extreme jealousy. Browning's use
of irony is evident, as the Duke exposes his own arrogance and cruelty while
attempting to justify his actions. Through this, Browning critiques the
oppressive and patriarchal attitudes towards women in society.
c) Explain Sathya Raghu Mokkapati’s views on “The
green house in a box”.
Ans: In his TED Talk, Sathya Raghu
Mokkapati discusses the concept of “The Greenhouse in a Box”,
which is a low-cost, sustainable farming solution designed to help small-scale
farmers in India. According to Raghu, many farmers face challenges due to
unpredictable weather, rising costs, and low yields. To address this, Kheyti,
the organization he co-founded, developed the Greenhouse in a Box,
a simple yet effective structure that protects crops from harsh weather
conditions and pests. This innovative solution reduces water usage, increases
crop productivity, and ensures more stable incomes for farmers. Raghu
emphasizes the importance of making advanced farming techniques accessible and
affordable for marginal farmers, enabling them to break free from the cycle of
poverty. His views highlight the need for practical, sustainable solutions that
can transform the agricultural landscape and improve farmers' livelihoods.
d) Evaluate Shivani Devata’s views on “Feminism”.
Ans: In her TED Talk, Shivani
Devata presents her views on feminism as a movement
aimed at achieving gender equality, not only in terms of
rights but also in societal attitudes and behaviors. Devata argues that
feminism is often misunderstood as being anti-men, but she clarifies that it
seeks to create a world where everyone, regardless of gender, has equal
opportunities and is free from discrimination. She discusses how traditional
gender roles limit both men and women, and calls for breaking down these
stereotypes to allow individuals to pursue their true potential. Devata also
stresses the importance of educating people about gender sensitivity
and the need for a more inclusive, empathetic society. Her views promote the
idea that feminism is about equity, fairness, and mutual respect, encouraging
both men and women to work together to create a more just and balanced world.
5. a) Describe the pechakucha Presentation with it’s
stages. (1x5=5)
Ans:
PechaKucha is a
fast-paced presentation format where speakers deliver their ideas using 20 slides, with each slide shown for
exactly 20 seconds, making the
entire presentation 6 minutes and 40
seconds long. This format encourages concise and engaging storytelling,
as the time limit requires speakers to focus on key points and visuals.
The
stages of a PechaKucha presentation
are:
1. Introduction: The speaker briefly introduces the
topic and sets the context, using the first few slides.
2. Development: The core content is presented
through short bursts of information, with each slide supporting a different
aspect of the topic.
3. Transition: Smooth transitions between slides
are important to maintain flow, connecting ideas logically and seamlessly.
4. Climax: The main idea or most important
point is delivered midway or towards the end, keeping the audience engaged.
5. Conclusion: The final slides wrap up the
presentation with a summary or call to action.
PechaKucha
is widely used for creative, business, and educational presentations due to its
concise and visually-driven style.
(OR)
b) Write a brief note on the uses of Group Discussions.
Ans: Group discussions (GDs)
are an effective method for sharing ideas, learning from others, and arriving
at collective decisions. In educational settings, GDs help students develop communication
skills, as participants are encouraged to express their thoughts
clearly and listen to others’ viewpoints. It fosters critical thinking
by encouraging participants to analyze different perspectives on a topic,
helping them refine their understanding.
In professional environments, GDs are often
used for team building and problem-solving. They provide a
platform for brainstorming, where members can contribute innovative ideas. GDs
are also commonly used in recruitment processes, allowing
employers to assess candidates' ability to work in teams, think critically, and
communicate effectively.
Overall, group discussions promote collaboration,
improve decision-making skills, and enhance participants'
ability to engage in productive dialogue.
6. a) Write an article on the famine situation in
Karnataka. (1x5=5)
Ans: Karnataka, a state known for its rich
agricultural heritage, has been facing a severe famine situation
in recent years, largely due to irregular rainfall and drought
conditions. The state's reliance on the monsoon has
become a significant challenge, with inconsistent rains causing crop
failures and water scarcity. Farmers, especially in rural areas, have
been struggling to sustain their livelihoods as water sources dry up, and
agricultural output decreases. Many have fallen into debt traps,
forcing them to migrate to urban areas in search of alternate employment.
The famine has also affected livestock
and worsened food security, with rising prices for essential
commodities. The government has stepped in with relief measures,
including financial aid, drought-resistant crop programs, and water
conservation projects, but these solutions have not yet fully alleviated the
crisis. The need for long-term strategies, such as sustainable
irrigation and climate adaptation, is crucial to
prevent such famines in the future.
(OR)
b. Write a brief note on your travelling experience.
Ans: Traveling is one of the most enriching
experiences I've ever had. Recently, I visited the hill station of
Coorg in Karnataka, a place known for its lush green landscapes and
coffee plantations. The journey to Coorg was filled with breathtaking views of mountains,
valleys, and waterfalls. I particularly
enjoyed the local cuisine and exploring the coffee
estates, where I learned about the process of coffee production. The
visit to Abbey Falls and the Dubare Elephant Camp
was a highlight of the trip, offering close interaction with nature and
wildlife. The trip not only gave me a break from routine but also provided a
sense of peace and rejuvenation. Traveling, for me, is about discovering new
cultures, people, and places, and this experience in Coorg reaffirmed my love
for exploring the world.
7. a) Draft a congratulatory email copy to your friend on
his/her success in getting gold medal in the University cultural Event. (1x5=5)
Ans:
From: manoj90@gmail.com
Subject: Congratulations on Your Gold Medal
Victory!
Dear Subash,
I hope this email finds you in great spirits!
I just heard the fantastic news about your gold medal win in the University
Cultural Event, and I couldn’t be more thrilled for you. You have always been a
shining star when it comes to your talent and hard work, and this achievement
is a true testament to your dedication and passion.
I am incredibly proud to call you my friend,
and I knew all along that you had it in you to succeed. I can’t wait to
celebrate this amazing moment with you in person. Once again, congratulations,
and may you continue to shine in all your future endeavors!
With warmest wishes,
Manoj
(OR)
b. Draft a leave
letter, to your principal to be sent via email, citing reasons for your leave.
Ans:
From: pradeepkumart@gmail.com
Subject: Request for Leave
Dear Sir/Madam,
I hope this email
finds you well. I am writing to request leave from 12-10-2024 to 15-10-2024 due
to family issue. During this time, I will not be able to attend classes, and I
kindly request your approval for my leave. I will ensure that I catch up on any
missed lessons and assignments once I return.
I would be grateful
if you could grant me leave for the mentioned period. Thank you for your
understanding and support.
Sincerely,
Yours sincerely
Pradeep Kumar
8. a) What is Instagram? What are it’s uses? (1x5=5)
Ans: Instagram is
a popular social media platform that allows users to share photos and videos
with their followers. Launched in 2010, it has grown into one of the most
widely used social platforms worldwide. Instagram offers various features like stories, reels, and IGTV,
which allow users to create and share different types of content, from daily
moments to longer videos.
The
platform is mainly used for social
networking, where individuals can follow each other, comment on posts,
and engage through likes and shares. It is also widely used for marketing and branding by businesses, influencers, and content creators.
Instagram provides tools for promoting products, services, and personal brands.
Additionally, it has become a space for creative
expression, where users can showcase photography, art, and personal
experiences. Overall, Instagram serves as a versatile platform for connection,
creativity, and communication.
(OR)
b) Write a note on the growing trend of the use of
“Twitter’.
Ans: Twitter has become an
increasingly popular social media platform due to its ability to deliver quick,
concise updates and information in real-time. With its
character limit of 280 characters per tweet, Twitter
encourages users to share short, impactful messages known as “tweets.” This
platform is widely used for news dissemination, public
discussions, and political commentary, making it a
key space for people to voice opinions and engage with global events.
The growing trend of Twitter can be
attributed to its role in shaping public discourse. It has
become a hub for breaking news, where journalists, politicians, and influencers
often share updates and insights. Additionally, Twitter’s hashtags
allow users to participate in trending conversations on topics ranging from
entertainment to social justice. The platform’s simplicity, speed, and ability
to connect people from around the world have made it a vital tool for
communication, activism, and community building in the digital age.
