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

Conclusion: Road safety is not just a rule—it’s an attitude. If each of us pledges to “Walk Safe, Drive Safe,” we can make our streets safer for everyone. After all, the most precious cargo we carry on the road is life itself.

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.