Grandparents – The roots of the family

 Q. Grandparents are loving and wise, they are very experienced and help the new generations to learn and develop. However, due to the increasing pattern of the nuclear family system, the kids usually do not spend a lot of time with the elderly. Take hints from the unit ‘Relationship’ of My English Reader and with your own ideas write an article on ‘Grandparents – The roots of the family’. You are Shivani/Shivansh.

Hints:
• The eldest members of the family.
• Life wisdom from grand parents can be helpful
• Provide attention and care to the family
• With emerging socializing trends, we tend to ignore them
• Our responsibility to take proper care of them. 

Grandparents – The Roots of the Family
By: Shivani/Shivansh

In the tapestry of life, our grandparents are the threads that bind generations together. They are the living history books, the keepers of traditions, and the fountains of unconditional love. As the eldest members of the family, they have witnessed the ebb and flow of time, the rise and fall of empires, and the evolution of society. Their life experiences, often hard-earned, are a treasure trove of wisdom that can guide us through life’s challenges.   

Grandparents have a unique ability to provide attention and care to the family. They often shower their grandchildren with love, affection, and gifts. They share stories of their childhood, teach us values, and instill in us a sense of belonging. Their presence in our lives can bring immense joy and comfort, especially during difficult times.   

However, with the increasing prevalence of nuclear families and the emergence of new social trends, we often tend to neglect our elderly. In our pursuit of material success and fleeting pleasures, we forget the importance of family bonds. We prioritize our careers, social lives, and personal ambitions, leaving our grandparents feeling isolated and lonely.

It is our moral duty to take proper care of our grandparents. We should spend quality time with them, listen to their stories, and value their advice. By doing so, we not only honor them but also enrich our own lives. Let us remember that our grandparents are the roots of our family tree, and without them, we would be lost.

Vocabulary:
• tapestry: ups and downs
• ebb: decline, decay, ups and downs
• treasure: something special, valuable
• trove: collection
• fleeting: lasting for a very short time
• honor: respect
• enrich: समृद्ध improve or enhance the quality.

Why regularity in studies throughout the year spell success ?

 Q. You have to speak in the morning assembly on ‘Why regularity in studies throughout the year spell success?’ Draft the speech in 150-200 words. You are Samar/Sajana. You can use the following clues.

• keeps the students up-to-date with curriculum

• reduces the pressure during exam time

• students get ample time to learn the lessons

• reduces rote learning

Good morning, respected Principal, teachers, and my dear friends. I am Samar/Sajana, and today I’ll be speaking on the importance of regularity in studies throughout the year.

We often see students studying hard only close to exams. While hard work is essential, consistent effort is far more effective. Regular study habits keep us up-to-date with the curriculum. Imagine trying to learn an entire years syllabus in a few weeks! It becomes overwhelming and leads to stress.

Studying regularly reduces this pressure significantly. When we learn concepts gradually, we have ample time to understand them thoroughly. This promotes better comprehension and reduces the need for rote learning. Instead of memorizing facts, we can grasp the underlying principles, which is far more beneficial in the long run.  

Regularity also allows us to identify our weak areas early on, giving us time to seek help and improve. It fosters a sense of discipline and makes learning a continuous and enjoyable process. So, let’s pledge to be regular in our studies and pave the way for a successful future.

Thank you. 

Walk safe, Drive safe Article

 Q. A majority of road accidents are caused by human error. Reckless speed and negligent driving are the biggest causes. You feel strongly about the unfortunate loss of lives that can be casily prevented by taking simple precautions. Taking ideas from the visual, together with your own ideas, write an article for your school magazine on the topic "Walk Safe, Drive Safe" 

Walk Safe, Drive Safe: A Plea for Road Safety
By:

The hum of engines, the screech of tires, and the occasional siren blare are now an integral part of our urban symphony. While these sounds signify progress and development, they also underscore a grim reality: road accidents continue to claim countless lives every year. A majority of these accidents are preventable, stemming from human error, reckless driving, and negligence. It is imperative that we, as responsible citizens, prioritize road safety and adopt measures to mitigate these risks.   

The roads, once a lifeline connecting communities, have become a battleground where human lives hang in the balance. The careless disregard for traffic rules, the allure of speed, and the influence of distractions have transformed these thoroughfares into potential death traps. As pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists, we share a common responsibility to ensure the safety of ourselves and others.

Pedestrians, often the most vulnerable road users, must exercise caution. Crossing roads at designated crosswalks, adhering to traffic signals, and avoiding distractions like mobile phones are essential. Wearing reflective clothing, especially during nighttime, can significantly enhance visibility.   

For drivers, the onus lies in responsible driving. Obeying speed limits, avoiding distractions, and refraining from driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs are paramount. Wearing seatbelts and ensuring that passengers do the same can significantly reduce the severity of injuries in accidents. Additionally, being patient, courteous, and considerate towards other road users can contribute to a safer driving environment.   

Cyclists, too, must prioritize safety. Wearing helmets, using hand signals, and riding defensively can help minimize risks. Adhering to traffic rules and avoiding reckless maneuvers are crucial.

Ultimately, road safety is a collective responsibility. By embracing a culture of safety, we can significantly reduce the number of road accidents. Let us pledge to be mindful, patient, and responsible road users. By adopting safe practices, we can create a safer future for ourselves and generation to come.

• hum: a continuous low noise
• screech: loud or harsh voice
• siren: warning signal
• blare: to sound loud and harsh
• symphony: coordination, unity, balance, harmony.
• stemming from: derive from, come from
• Allure: powerful attraction
• thoroughfares: a road or path forming a route between two places
• If you exercise something such as your authority, your rights, or a good quality, you use it or put it into effect. 
• Caution is great care which you take in order to avoid possible danger. 
• onus: duty or responsibility
• severity: being very bad/serious
• patient: able to stay calm and not get angry, especially when there is a difficulty or you have to wait a long time
• courteous: polite and pleasant, showing respect for other people, well-mannered
• considerate: kind and helpful, unselfish, thoughtful, sympathetic.
• prioritize: means to rank in order of importance, so that you can deal with the most important first.
• defensively: in a way that protects someone or something against attack or injury.
• maneuvers: movements or skillful plans.
• embracing: connecting, holding with open arms.
• significantly: in a way that is large or important enough to be noticed or have an effect

Critical thinking- an integral life skill of the 21st Century

 Q. Education is the process that trains us to think critically, independently and logically when faced with the grim realities of life. Write a speech to be delivered in the morning assembly, on the topic ‘Critical thinking- an integral life skill of the 21st Century’. You are Abhishek / Aishwarya.

A very good morning to everyone present here. I stand before you today to shed light on a skill that is as essential as the air we breathe – critical thinking. In the ever-evolving landscape of the 21st century, critical thinking has emerged as an indispensable tool for navigating the complexities of life.   

Critical thinking is not merely about analyzing information; it’s about questioning, evaluating, and forming independent judgments. It empowers us to break free from the shackles of conformity and embrace the power of our own minds. By honing our critical thinking skills, we can become discerning individuals who can sift through the deluge of information and discern truth from falsehood.   

In a world inundated with misinformation and propaganda, critical thinking acts as a shield, protecting us from being swayed by baseless claims and irrational beliefs. It encourages us to think beyond the surface, to delve deeper into the underlying issues, and to question the status quo.   

Critical thinking is not limited to academic pursuits; it permeates every aspect of our lives. Whether it’s making informed decisions about our health, finances, or relationships, or simply understanding the nuances of current events, critical thinking is our guiding light.

To cultivate critical thinking, we must embrace a mindset of curiosity and skepticism. We must be willing to challenge our own assumptions and to consider alternative perspectives. By engaging in thoughtful discussions, seeking diverse viewpoints, and actively seeking knowledge, we can strengthen our critical thinking muscles.   

In conclusion, critical thinking is the cornerstone of a well-rounded education. It equips us with the tools to navigate the challenges of the 21st century and to create a better future for ourselves and for generations to come. Let us embrace critical thinking as a lifelong pursuit and strive to become discerning, independent, and informed individuals.   

Thank you.

Role of Grandparents in our life

 Q. Given the present scenario of nuclear family system, dual- incomes and preoccupied parents, grandparents can be the perfect role models, caregivers and nurtures. They not only provide intergenerational learning opportunities but also facilitate balanced upbringing of their grandchildren. Taking ideas from the unit- ‘Relationships’ and using your own ideas write an article for your school magazine on the topic ‘Role of Grandparents in our life’. You are Ishaan/Ishaani.

Role of Grandparents in our life
By: Ishaani

In today’s scenerio, family size is decreasing with the passage of time. Grand parents are considered as the nurture for their grandchildren because both parents are working to survive in this competitive era.

Grandparents occupy a prominent position in the family. In fact, they are the senior most members and considered as backbone of the family. Role played by them are manifold. Their attention to their grandchildren means a lot to them. They spend most of their quality time with their grandchildrens. They give an unconditional love to them. They help in upbringing them by making them vulnerable to their surroundings. They teach them good manners. In addition to this, they teach them valuable lessons through various interesting stories and personal experiences. For instance, they teach them to offer a part of income to almighty or to the poor or needy and donate to charity. They accompany them to walk, trips, parks, temples etc. Their experience is valuable to younger family members. They familiarise the women about various rituals and qualities among people such as brotherhood, humanity, kindness and many more valuable qualities.

Moreover, Grandparents are the mentor, spiritual guide, teacher, care taker, hero of the children. They are cheer leaders in our life. They give them praise, best wishes, blessings, support and encouragement to move on the path/ladder of success. They motivate them to face challenges instead of disappointment. Apart from this, they bring so much to the family life. They can help to stabilize the family environment. They share their wisdom and wealth of experience with us. They add a sense of connection to the chain of humanity. They also provide a whole sense of history, identity and heritage. They can give perfect solutions to most of the problems.

Thus, grandparents play multidimensional roles in our life. Their mindfulness and activities can inspire everyone in the family. So, It is just only a myth that they are burden to the society or family.

Importance/ role/ Significance of Siblings

 Q. Our siblings are the first friends we meet in our life. They are our biggest support system. Even more than the friends or parents, they have been right by our sides through the awkward, embarrassing, joyous and miserable times of our lives. Using your own ideas write an article for your school magazine on the topic Importance of Siblings in our life. You are Isha/Ikshit. (120-150 words)

OR

You are Sameer/Siya, a student of class VII. You have to prepare a speech to be delivered in the morning assembly of your school on the topic ‘Significance of Siblings in Our Life’. Write the speech in about 120-150 words. You can use ideas from the unit ‘Relationships’ of My English Reader along with your views. 

OR

Of all the relationships , a bond between the siblings is always special. A sibling can be a guide, a friend, a mentor, a competitor , a teacher – all rolled into one. Taking ideas from unit “Relationships” of “My English Reader”, write a speech on the topic – “Role of Siblings in Our Life”  (Word Limit : 120-150 words) [SRDAV]

Importance of Siblings in our life
By:

Siblings are individuals who share one or both parents. A sibling is our brother or sister. They are considered as  our first friends we meet in life. They always stuck through thick and thin of life. They are true campanions. They play a very significant role in our life.

They are the next to parents to which we are closely associated with. They share the same wavelength and get along with each other. They help in upbringing of their younger siblings. They inculcate good manners in them from their early age such as wishing in the morning and at night to parents, to be obedient and respectful towards elders etc. They help in their home assignments, projects, models etc. making them a good innovators.  They prepare them with every important topic for their examination and assist them to pass with flying colours. They also accompany them in playing sports and games.

To err is human. Siblings make them aware of the mistake done by them and will not be repeat by their youngers. They share the true experience of their life which is useful in every step of our life. To exemplify, elder siblings advises on the real life situations. such as to maintain regularity in studies, not to involved/interferes in useless matters as conflicts or quarrels among students. Siblings are considered to be our true well wishers.

Thus, we can say that siblings are our superheroes. They motivate their youngers. It is the best and the longest relationship that one can ever have.

Making School Bags Lighter

 Q. There are so many books that are being carried by school children to school and bags are getting heavier instead of getting lighter. Write an article expressing how you feel about this and what you think should be done to get over this problem.

OR

You are Deepak/Deepika. Everyday you watch school children carrying heavy school bags on their backs. Their bags are getting heavier day by day instead of becoming lighter. Write an article expressing your ideas about making schoolbags lighter. You may use the following.
• heavy schoolbags: chronic back pain 
• not easy to carry on back 
• lockers in school- schools books/ classwork notebooks
• only homework to be carried home
• Use of E-books and computers

I.
A plea for lighter schoolbags
By:

It’s a daily sight, a heart-wrenching one. Young, innocent school children, their tender shoulders burdened by the weight of their heavy schoolbags. As days turn into weeks and weeks into months, the weight seems to increase, not decrease.

The repercussions of carrying such heavy loads are far-reaching. Chronic back pain, poor posture, and a host of other health issues are becoming increasingly common among our young generation. These heavy bags not only hinder their physical development but also affect their mental well-being, making it difficult for them to focus on their studies.

To alleviate this problem, a simple yet effective solution can be implemented: school lockers. By providing lockers in schools, students can store their textbooks, classwork notebooks, and other stationary items. This will significantly reduce the weight of their daily load, allowing them to carry home only the necessary homework.

In addition to lockers, the increasing use of e-books and computers can further lighten the burden. Digital textbooks and online resources can eliminate the need for heavy textbooks, making learning more accessible and efficient.

It’s time to prioritize the health and well-being of our children. By taking steps to lighten their schoolbags, we can ensure a brighter future for them. Let’s work together to make a difference and create a healthier learning environment for our young minds.

• Plea: an important and emotional request.
• Wrenching: A feeling of sadness
• repercussions: unpleasant effect

II.
MAKING SCHOOL BAGS LIGHTER
by: Deepak

The schoolbags children carry on their backs have really become back-breaking. Schoolchildren have to carry textbooks and workbooks on various subjects. Then there are exercise notebooks for classwork and homework. As the student gets promoted to the next class, his bag gets heavier instead of becoming lighter. In some cases the schoolbags outweigh the students. This leads me to wonder why the schoolbags must remain so heavy. Experts have reported that children find it difficult to carry bags on their back. Moreover, heavy schoolbags cause chronic back pain. These can be easily replaced by trolley bags. These can be pulled easily. Another way is, have lockers in school. The students can leave their schoolbooks and notebooks there. They need to carry only their homework notebooks. The use of E-books and computers can also lighten the burden of schoolbags.

Driving - An Art that Requires Maturity and Discipline that Comes with Age

 Q. The thrill of speed and the fascination for handling machines is something that the teenagers have been known to enjoy since time immemorial. This trait leads many a teenager to indulge taking to the wheel illegally. In the context of the rising number of underage driving and the consequent accidents, write an article, in about 150-200 words on the topic: “Driving- an art that requires maturity and discipline that comes with age.” You are Shyam/Shyama, the Cadet-incharge, NCC Unit, Balwant Public School, Sonipat.

Driving - An Art that Requires Maturity and Discipline that Comes with Age
By Shyam/Shyama, Cadet-in-charge, NCC Unit, Balwant Public School, Sonipat

The allure of the open road, the thrill of speed, and the power to command a machine often beckons teenagers. However, driving is not merely a physical act; it’s a complex interplay of judgment, reflexes, and emotional control. These are qualities that mature with age and experience.

Underage driving is a grave concern. It poses a significant threat to the driver, passengers, and other road users. The lack of experience, coupled with the impulsive nature of adolescence, can lead to reckless behavior, resulting in accidents that can have devastating consequences.

Driving is an art that demands respect. It requires a keen understanding of traffic rules, a sharp awareness of surroundings, and the ability to react swiftly to unforeseen circumstances. These skills are honed over time, with practice and a sense of responsibility.

As a young individual, I urge my peers to prioritize safety. Let us wait for the right age to experience the freedom of the road. Until then, let’s channel our energy into activities that are both exciting and safe. By respecting the laws and understanding the gravity of the situation, we can ensure a safer future for ourselves and others.