“Be the Best” is an inspirational poem written by Douglas Malloch who was an American poet and short-story writer and Associate editor of the American Lumberman which is an adventure magazine based in Chicago. Michigan was born in Muskegon, Michigan which used to be the center of the lumbering (work of cutting trees and preparing lumber) industry; he was famously called as “Lumberman’s Poet”. Brother Malloch, as he was known amongst his brothers and friends, was raised amidst the forest, logging camps, sawmills and lumber yards. The poet was fascinated by the sheer beauty of nature and its ingenuity and power.
Malloch's poem “Be the Best” deeply depicts his observation of nature. The title of the poem describes the meaning of the poem and its concept in itself. He is trying to relate to us us that whatever we do, we have to be the best at it. He has used examples from nature that he observed during his own upbringing to convey his message.
Stanza 1
If you can’t be a pine on the top of the hill
Be a scrub in the valley- but be
The best little scrub by the side of the rill;
Be a bush if you can’t be a tree
The poem starts by giving examples of nature. The poet says that if you can’t be a pine standing tall on the highest point of the hill then that doesn’t mean you're not worthy enough to be a part of the forest. You can always be the simplest scrub within the valley beside the rill (rivulet) making the valley beautiful. The tall pine trees occupy large areas in forests but without scrub by the side of the stream, the valley would lose its charm. So at least be the best scrub if not a pine. He is trying to relate that be the best employee if you can’t be the boss. He further adds that if we can’t be as strong as a tree then at least be a bush.
Stanza 2
If you can’t be a bush be a bit of the grass,
And some highway happier make;
If you can’t be a Muskie then just be a bass
But the liveliest bass in the lake!
Here he again says that if we can’t be a bush than be a tuft of grass because a few blades of grass along the highways can make it prettier and happier. He then moves to different aspects of nature to prove his point. He says that if you can’t be a Muskie (common name of Muskellunge fish), a comparatively uncommon and rare seafood native to North America; be a Bass (an edible fish) but the liveliest Bass in the lake.
Stanza 3
We can’t all be captains, we’ve got be crew,
There’s something for all of us here.
There’s big work to do and there’s lesser to do,
And the task we must do is the near.
Douglas Malloch wants us to be happy and optimistic. He says that if we can’t be the captain of the ship, we still can be the crew. A captain alone can’t sail through the seas. He wants us to understand that there's always something for us and that we should be proud whatever we are. He explains that in this society, every work has its own importance and no work is to be ashamed of. What would happen if everyone wants to be a doctor or a businessman? Who would take care of the smaller jobs of the society? There would be nobody to keep our roads clean, there would be nobody to fix our shoes. So he explains that we must always do the task which is at hand instead of running towards bigger tasks as every job has to be completed.
Stanza 4
If you can’t be a highway then just be a trail,
If you can’t be the sun then be a star;
It isn’t by size that you win or fail —
Be the best of whatever you are!
In the last stanza he further adds that if we can’t be a highway, we can always be a narrow pathway. Some of the most beautiful parts of nature are led by trails, not by highways. He further adds that if we can’t be the magnanimous Sun, we can always just be a twinkling star. He says that size doesn’t matter, your success will depend only on how good you're at it and if you're making noticeable contribution to the society. The poet concludes the poem reiterating that what matters is whether or not you're the best in your field.
One thing that we must not miss is the poet’s power of observation. He has noticed it keenly that the smaller and lesser important objects of nature draw our attention even more than the larger and important ones when and only they make the environment beautiful or give us some special feelings. We see the sun as a crucial heavenly body but we also stare at the stars as they make the dark sky so beautiful. We may gaze at the tall pine trees with awe, but we also stare upon the green patches within the valleys or on the roadside, simply because they make the nature beautiful and provides us a good feeling.
Good Governance is an approach to government that is committed to creating a system founded in justice and peace that protects individual’s human rights and civil liberties. According to the United Nations, Good Governance is measured by the eight factors of Participation, Rule of Law, Transparency, Responsiveness, Consensus Oriented, Equity and Inclusiveness, Effectiveness and Efficiency, and Accountability.
Participation requires that all groups, particularly those most vulnerable, have direct or representative access to the systems of government. This manifests as a strong civil society and citizens with the freedom of association and expression.
Rule of Law is exemplified by impartial legal systems that protect the human rights and civil liberties of all citizens, particularly minorities. This is indicated by an independent judicial branch and a police force free from corruption.
Transparency means that citizens understand and have access to the means and manner in which decisions are made, especially if they are directly affected by such decisions. This information must be provided in an understandable and accessible format, typically translated through the media.
Responsiveness simply involves that institutions respond to their stakeholders within a reasonable time frame.
Consensus Oriented is demonstrated by an agenda that seeks to mediate between the many different needs, perspectives, and expectations of a diverse citizenry. Decisions needs to be made in a manner that reflects a deep understanding of the historical, cultural, and social context of the community.
Equity and Inclusiveness depends on ensuring that all the members of a community feel included and empowered to improve or maintain their well being, especially those individuals and groups that are the most vulnerable.
Effectiveness and Efficiency is developed through the sustainable use of resources to meet the needs of a society. Sustainability refers to both ensuring social investments carry through and natural resources are maintained for future generations.
Accountability refers to institutions being ultimately accountable to the people and one another. This includes government agencies, civil society, and the private sector all being accountable to one another as well.
- Creative learning
6.1.1. Errors of Verbs of Perception
In English grammar, a verb of perception refers to a verb that conveys the experience one or more of the physical senses. Some instances of these verbs include see, watch, look, hear, listen, feel, and taste. A verb of perception also referred to as called a perception verb or perceptual verb. Distinctions are often drawn between subject-oriented and object-oriented verbs of perception.
Perceptual verbs such as to see, to hear, to feel, to smell, to taste have certain characteristics in common. It is important to note these characteristics in order to avoid errors associated with them.
They are often used with the auxiliary verb 'can' or 'can't':
- Can you hear that? Do you hear that? Are you able to hear that?
- I can't see much. I am not able to see much.
- I can feel the warmth of the sun.
Verbs of perception are not conjugated within the progressive form, unlike verbs which express voluntary actions ('to look (at)', 'to listen (to)'):
- I hear what you're saying, but i don't want to speak to you anymore.
However, they're also employed to express voluntary actions and may therefore be conjugated within the progressive form:
- Jacob can't see who's knocking at his door. (involuntary)
- Jacob is not seeing anybody today. (voluntary)
- Can you feel the banana leaf added to the current mixture? (involuntary)
- Horatio is feeling a banana leaf. He says he likes its texture. (voluntary)
- Luna's cake tastes good. (involuntary)
- Luna is tasting her cake. (voluntary)
Perceptual Verbs are formed with an object followed by a verb in the infinitive without 'to' (like the verbs to watch, to observe...):
- I saw the sun rise this morning.
- Everybody heard Philip yell.
6.1.2. Errors of Prepositions
A preposition is a word that connects the noun/pronoun in a sentence to the other parts of the sentence such as the verbs and adjectives. It determines the relationship between the nouns, pronouns and the other words in a sentence.
They help one understand the relationships of logic, space and sequence between the different parts of a sentence.
Below are few examples of prepositions commonly used in the English language:
- I just came back from the U.S.
- The book is inside the drawer.
- The kid threw a stone into the lake.
Types of Prepositions
These prepositions indicate when something happens, will happen or has happened in any point in time.
Prepositions of time include at, on, in, before, during, after.
Examples:
- John was born on the 7th of August.
- David left his job in 2012.
- Amy ate lots of fruits during her pregnancy.
2. Prepositions of Place:
These prepositions usually indicate the position of a particular thing or person. The three most common prepositions of time are on, at and in.
These prepositions may also indicate the time along with place but depending on their use it can be easily ascertained what they are referring to.
Examples:
- The ball is in the court.
- The clothes are on the top shelf.
- I was at the supermarket just yesterday.
3. Prepositions of Direction or Movement:
Prepositions of movement indicate the direction in which a person or an object is moving.
‘To’ is the most commonly used preposition of movement.
Examples:
- I went to shop for groceries but all the shops were closed.
- He took his dog to the park.
The other prepositions of direction or movement are across, though, over, down, up, past, around.
4. Prepositions of Manner:
Prepositions of manner describe the way in which things take place or means by which things happen.
Prepositions of manner include by, in, like, with, on.
Examples:
- I like travelling by car.
- She went to the school in a taxi.
- Jacob sings like a professional.
- He reacted with pity when he saw the poor cat.
5. Preposition of Agents or Instruments:
Most common prepositions of these types are by and with.
Examples:
- The song was recorded by James.
- He cuts his hair with a clipper.
6. Prepositions of Possession:
Prepositions of Possession indicate the owing or owning of an object. It also can be used when something is own to someone. Prepositions of possession include of, with and to.
Examples:
- This is the car of my niece.
- He said he saw a man with a green umbrella.
- This jacket belongs to my grandfather.
Use of Prepositions and Common Errors
The use of prepositions in sentences can be a difficult task. Propositions are sometimes short and very common (e.g., at, in and on), and may have several uses depending on the context, which can make it difficult to know which preposition to use.
Below are some common errors to avoid with prepositions:
- Temporal Errors: The use of 'in' and 'at' depends on the time of the day. For example, in sentences we always use the preposition “in” with “morning,” “afternoon,” and “evening.” But the preposition 'at' is used when talking about the night:
- Helen goes running in the morning.
- Tim goes running in the afternoon.
- Shirley goes running in the evening.
- Bob goes running at night.
2. Spatial Errors (In and at vs. To): The preposition 'to' can be used to discuss journeys (e.g., “I’m going to Tasmania”). But if the word “arrive,” is present in a sentence we use “in” or “at” to describe reaching a destination. For instance:
- She arrived in Tasmania just after lunch.
- He arrived at the restaurant five minutes late.
The use of “in” or “at” typically depends on the destination:
The preposition “in” for cities, countries or other large areas. While the preposition “at” is used for specific places (e.g., a library, a bar, or someone’s house).
3. Time, Days, Months, and Years (At, On, and In): Different prepositions are used in different contexts while referring to time in days, months and years.
If a time of the day is being referred, the correct term is “at”:
- The party starts at 9pm.
If a specific day or date is being referred, we use “on”:
- The party is on Saturday.
While referring to a month or year, the correct preposition is “in”:
- We’re having a party in April.
4. Helping verbs: With auxiliary verbs such as “should” or “must.”, the preposition "of" is used.
- Exception: I should of gone to bed earlier. ✗
However, this is an error. The correct word here isn’t even a preposition.
Rather, the verb “have,” must be used which sounds a bit like “of” when spoken (hence the confusion). Thus, it should say:
- I should have gone to bed earlier. ✓
5. Present Continuous Tense: If something has been happening from a long time, we use “for” when referring to a length of time (e.g., a period of hours, days, or months):
- I’ve been writing for six hours.
But if a specific time is used as a point of reference, we use “since”:
- I’ve been writing since breakfast.
The difference here is that the first refers to a measure of time, while the second refers to a fixed point in the past when the activity began.
6. Talking About and Discussing: “Talking” and “discussing” are similar activities, so people often treat these words as interchangeable. However, only the preposition “about” must be used after “talking.” For example:
- We’re talking about extreme sports. ✓
- We’re discussing extreme sports. ✓
- We’re discussing about extreme sports. ✗
Key Takeaways
- Verbs of perception are verbs that describe the experiences of one or more of the physical senses.
- Some instances of perceptual verbs include see, watch, look, hear, listen, feel, and taste.
- Perceptual verbs can be subject oriented or object oriented.
- A preposition is a word that connects the noun/pronoun in a sentence to the other parts of the sentence such as the verbs and adjectives.
- A preposition determines the relationship between the nouns, pronouns and the other words in a sentence.
- A preposition cannot be plural or possessive. Sometimes prepositions can also act as nouns, verbs and adverbs.
- Prepositions of time indicate when something happens, will happen or has happened in any point in time.
- Prepositions of place indicate the position of a particular thing or person.
- Prepositions of movement indicate the direction in which a person or an object is moving.
- Prepositions of manner describe the way in which things take place or means by which things happen.
- Preposition of Agents or Instruments describe the action conducted by a person or object on another person or object.
- Prepositions of Possession indicate the owing or owning of an object. It also can be used when something is own to someone.
- The preposition 'to' can be used to discuss journeys (e.g., “I’m going to Tasmania”). But if the word “arrive,” is present in a sentence we use “in” or “at” to describe reaching a destination.
Phrases are combinations of two or more words that form the component of a clause. They are meaningful grammatical constructions that expresses a concept and can be used within a sentence.
There are 5 basic types of phrases in the English language:
- Noun Phrase:
A noun phrase is a type of phrase which consists of one noun and/or a group of words surrounding that noun. These nouns can be proper nouns, common nouns, abstract nouns etc.
Examples: There is a red box on the table.
I saw two lost puppies on the street yesterday.
He bought a new sports car on his birthday.
2. Verb Phrase:
A verb phrase is a type of phrase which consists of a root verb and its auxiliaries. It is also known as a ‘verb group’.
Examples: They have been working since last night.
I have been waiting for the rain to stop for nearly an hour.
Jack lost the keys to his apartment when he was jogging.
3. Adjective Phrase:
Adjective phrases are phrases constructed around a single adjective. It may be a single adjective or a group of words surrounding that adjective.
Examples: The film was very boring, wasn’t it?
I ate a very big meal for lunch.
The blue umbrella stood out in a crowd of all red umbrellas.
4. Adverb phrase:
Adverb phrases consist of a single adverb and a group of supporting words surrounding that adverb.
Examples: They finished the task as fast as possible.
Please do it now, otherwise you’ll regret later.
He spoke very softly in front of his parents.
5. Prepositional phrase:
Examples: They kept quarrelling over money of all things.
The coin was stuck inside a large black futon.
You shouldn’t go swimming after having a large meal.
- Phrases are two or more words that are meaningful grammatical constructions that expresses a concept and can be used within a sentence.
- A noun phrase is a type of phrase which consists of one noun and/or a group of words surrounding that noun. A verb phrase has a root verb and its auxiliaries.
- Adjective phrases have a single adjective or a group of adjectives.
- Adverb phrases consist of a single adverb and supporting adverb surrounding it. A prepositional phrase is a type of phrase which consists of a preposition which is followed by its object which is usually a noun phrase.
There is a great difference in how the words are spelled and the way they are pronounced in the English language. Therefore, it is difficult to ascertain the correct pronunciation of a word by just looking at it the way it is spelled. This often results in mispronunciation. Only by hearing the correct pronunciation from a native speaker one can truly understand how words are supposed to be articulated.
For example, consider the following words – through, cough, though, rough, bough. In these words, the pronunciation of the letters –ough varies with each word.
Similarly read, need, believe, machine, receive, we, people, key, quay contain nine different spellings for the same vowel sound in the word “need”.
Thus, it can be said that there is no one-to-one correspondence between the sounds as they are uttered and the letter or symbol which appears in the written word. Therefore, it is necessary to have some consistent representation of the language so that one can have a clearer understanding of the distinctive sounds which exist in the language. Discrepancies between the pronunciation and ordinary spelling confuse the learner and the result is mispronunciation. Such mispronunciations may be avoided by the use of Phonetic Transcription.
Below are commonly confused English words with their correct usage:
1. A While vs. Awhile
A while is a noun phrase consisting of a and while, whereas awhile is an adverb meaning “for a while.” A while usually follows the preposition for or in, whereas if you cannot put “for a while” into a sentence, you need to use a while.
•He went to the store for a while. (if you replace a while with for a while, it does not make sense -> He went to the store for a while.)
•You should sleep awhile. (if you replace awhile with for a while, it makes sense -> You should sleep for a while.)
2. Advice vs. Advise
Advice is a noun, whereas advise is a verb.
•She took my advice and took out a loan.
•I advised her to take out a loan.
3. Alot vs. A Lot vs. Allot
First of all, the “word” alot does not exist! A lot is frequently misspelled as one word, alot, but it is actually two words.
Memory tip: Think of a lot as meaning, I want a whole lot full of something. (a lot meaning a parking lot, a large area)
The word allot is a verb meaning to distribute.
•I have allotted this money to the charity.
4. Among vs. Between
Among is used to express a loose relationship of several items. Between expresses the relationship of one item to another item.
•I found a pen hidden among the papers on the desk.
•I found a pen hidden between two sheets of paper on the desk.
5. Apostrophes
Compare the following phrases:
•The girls are at home.
•The girl’s home.
•The girls’ home.
The meaning in the above phrases is changed dramatically based on the placement, if any, of the apostrophe. When talking about more than one person or object, there is no apostrophe.
•chairs (more than one chair)
•boys (more than one boy)
•suitcases (more than one suitcase)
The apostrophe with an s is added to show possession.
•The girl’s home. (the home belonging to the girl)
•The student’s notebook. (the notebook belonging to the student)
Likewise, an apostrophe is added after a plural word to show possession of that plural noun.
•The girls’ home. (the home belonging to more than one girl)
•The students’ notebook. (one notebook belonging to more than one student)
•The students’ notebooks. (more than one notebook belonging to more than one student)
6. Assure vs. Ensure vs. Insure
Assure means “to tell someone that something will definitely happen.” Ensure means “to make sure of something.” Insure means “to buy an insurance policy.”
•She assured me that the house would not flood.
•She took steps to ensure that the house did not flood.
•She is glad the house was insured against flood damage.
7. Breathe vs. Breath
Breathe is a verb, and breath is the noun form of breath.
•It seems that he breathed his last breath.
This also applies to the verb bathe and the noun bath.
8. Capital vs. Capitol
Capital can mean either an uppercase letter, the seat of the government, or money. Capitol is the actual building where the government sits.
•I would like to visit the Capitol in the capital of the United States, Washington, D.C.
9. Complement vs. Compliment
A complement completes something else, whereas a compliment is something nice you say to someone.
•His black suit was a nice complement to his black shoes.
•She complimented him on his shoes.
10. Effect vs. Affect
This one is straightforward–effect is a noun, and affect is a verb!
Memory tip for affect: A is for action, and verbs are about action. Affect is a verb, and it starts with A.
Memory tip for effect: Think of the phrase “cause and effect.” “Cause” ends with an E, and a cause leads to an effect!
11. Emigrate vs. Immigrate
Emigrate method “to transport faraway from a city or us of a,” while immigrate means “to move into a country from elsewhere.”
•my father emigrated from Venezuela.
•my mother immigrated to the united states.
12. Except vs. Accept
Besides is a preposition meaning “aside from,” and accept is a verb that means “to get hold of.”
•i don’t like all of my items, besides this one. (there is only one present that i love)
•why did i accept all of those gifts?
13. Further vs. Farther
Use farther for physical distance, and similarly for metaphorical distance.
•how a good deal farther do i need to drive?
•i would really like to enhance further in my profession.
14. Good vs. Well
The phrase accurate is an adjective, while the phrase nicely is an adverb.
•how are you today? I'm doing nicely.
•i sense properly these days.
15. Historic vs. Historical
Historical approach “famous,” whereas ancient way “related to history.”
•what a historical snowstorm!
•she determined to wear a ancient gown for the renaissance truthful.
16. “I feel bad”
Isn’t feel a verb, so shouldn’t the phrase after it's an adverb, badly? The answer is, no! Sense is a linking verb, linking the difficulty to the adjective that describes it. Consequently, the word after sense need to, in fact, be an adjective. I feel bad is the appropriate sentence.
•the cake smells scrumptious. (smells is a linking verb; scrumptious is an adjective)
•their talking is loud. (is is a linking verb; loud is an adjective)
17. I.e. vs. E.g.
I.e. and e.g. are both abbreviations of Latin phrases.
E.G. Is used to introduce a few examples, whereas i.e. Is used to intend “in different words.”
•after work, I’d like to test out the brand-new supermarket, i.E., key food.
•after work, I’d want to go to a grocery store, e.g., key food or Wald Baum’s.
18. Into vs. In to
Into is a preposition showing what something is internal. In and to are two words that just show up to be next to every other occasionally.
•he were given into the teach. (into is one unit – a preposition)
•i dropped in to look you. (drop in is one unit on its very own, and to see is some other unit)
•log in to the website by urgent this button. (log in is a phrasal verb)
•what is your login? (login is a noun)
The regulations above practice to onto and on to as properly.
19. Less vs. Fewer
Fewer is for rely nouns, and less is for mass nouns.
20. Lie vs. Lay
Compare these two sentences:
- You lie down on the sofa.
- You lay the book down on the table.
The second one has a direct object (book), whereas the first sentence does not.
HOWEVER:
- Last week, you lay down on the couch.
- Last week, you laid the book on the table.
- You have lain on the couch for a few hours.
- You have laid the book on the table.
PRESENT TENSE | PAST TENSE | PAST PARTICIPLE |
Lie | lay | lain |
Lay | laid | laid |
It just so happens that the past tense of the verb to lie is the same as the present tense of the verb to lay. You just have to memorize it!
21. Loose vs. Lose
Loose is an adjective, and lose is a verb.
- This shirt is too loose on me.
- How did you lose your phone?!
22. Numbers
In English, numbers greater than a thousand and up to 10 thousand may be written in two methods:
•one thousand
•1,000
Numbers above ten thousand can be written by using a comma within the following way:
•10,000
•247,533
Decimals and cash amounts may be written with the aid of the usage of a length inside the following manner:
•7.24 = seven and twenty-4 hundredths
•2.14 = and fourteen hundredths
•$1.37 = one dollar and thirty-seven cents
•$359.08 = 3 hundred fifty-nine dollars and 8 cents
23. Parallel Structure
One of the most common errors in English is disrespecting parallel structure.
Here is an example:
- I like hiking, swimming, and biking.
- I like hiking, to swim, and biking.
The second sentence disrespects parallel structure. Parallel structure means using the same pattern of words in a sentence.
- I was asked to write my report quickly, thoroughly, and accurately.
- I was asked to write my report quickly, thoroughly, and in an accurate manner.
24. Principal vs. Principle
When most important is a noun, it refers to someone in rate of an business enterprise; when it is an adjective, it way “most crucial.” a precept is a firmly held perception.
•what did the predominant want to talk to you approximately?
•the predominant reason she desired to look me changed into to talk about my current tuition price.
•it’s not that i don’t have the cash, it’s just a be counted of principle.
25. Stationary vs. Stationery
Stationary means “not moving,” whereas stationery refers to paper and writing materials.
- Of course, the door will remain stationary if you don’t push it the right way!
- I love this stationery you printed your resume on!
26. Subject-Verb Agreement with Collective Nouns
If the sentence shows more individuality, you would use a plural verb; however, if the noun is acting as a unit, use a singular verb.
- The team is heading for practice.
- The team are eating with their families.
With a prepositional phrase, use a verb tense that corresponds to the subject.
- Nearly one in four people is Muslim. (one is the subject, so we use a singular verb, is)
- 25% of people are Muslim. (fractions and percentages can be singular or plural depending on the prepositional phrase that follows; people is plural, so we use are)
27. The “Bacon and Eggs” Rule
When we have nouns which are used so often together we consider them as a unique concept, we use a singular verb.
•Viscount St. Albans and eggs became served at brunch.
•macaroni and cheese is delicious.
Likewise, we use a singular verb when we talk about quantities or quantities.
•a thousand greenbacks is a lot of cash.
•ten miles is simply too far to walk.
Expressions with “certainly one of” are accompanied by means of a singular verb.
•considered one of my college students is a gymnast.
•one in every of my buddies is going to Africa this summer season.
28. Title Capitalization
Here are some basic rules about how to capitalize titles:
- Always capitalize the first and last word.
- Capitalize nouns, pronouns, verbs, adjectives, and adverbs.
- Do NOT capitalize articles, prepositions (shorter than five letters), or coordinating conjunctions.
Here are some examples:
- A Year in Paris
- Pride and Prejudice
- Cheaper by the Dozen
Of course, for every rule there are exceptions, so it is best to look it up if you are unsure of something.
29. Who vs. Which vs. That
Who refers to people, whereas which and that check with agencies or items. That introduces an vital clause (which adds critical statistics to the sentence), while which introduces a nonessential clause (which adds supplementary, needless statistics).
•she is the only who drove me domestic the previous day. (who refers to someone)
•i do no longer like cereal that has chocolate in it. (we do no longer understand what type of cereal without the important clause)
•this cereal, which has chocolate in it, is not accurate for you. (we do not need the statistics in the nonessential clause)
30. Who vs. Whom
Who refers back to the issue of the sentence, while whom refers back to the item of a verb or preposition.
•who wants the remaining piece of pie? (who's the situation)
•whom do you agree with more? (you is the concern; whom is the item)
If you’re uncertain, attempt substituting who with he/she and whom with him/her to see in the event that they healthy.
Jumbled words or Para-Jumbles refer to a set of jumbled sentences in a paragraph which, when placed logically form a coherent and meaningful paragraph. We are required to rearrange the sentences in a very proper manner such that they link and form a coherent paragraph.
Sample Question: The sentences given in each question form a coherent paragraph if properly sequenced. Each sentence is labeled with a letter. Choose the most coherent logical order of sentences from among the given choices to construct a coherent paragraph.
A. On Monday the secretary of state is bound to hold a day of meetings with high-level political, military and business figures to further a "strategic dialogue" geared toward further expansion of US trade in India.
B. US secretary of state Hillary Clinton arrived in India on Sunday for strategic talks objectifying bolstering bilateral ties and securing firmer support for the war in Afghanistan.
C. Clinton arrived by plane in Delhi before noon, according to a reporter travelling along with her, prior to expected talks with Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and President Pratibha Patel in the evening.
1.BAC 2.BCA 3.CBA 4. CAB
This is a fairly easy question and readers can easily identify the option 2, BCA, as the correct answer.
The key points for identifying and correcting the jumbled sentences in the above example are:
Statement B forms the proper starting sentence, providing us with the best introduction for what is to follow.
Statements C and A take forward the paragraph within the chronological order within which the events are scheduled, with first the reason for the evening being provided then for the next day.
Strategies for Understanding and Solving Jumbled Sentences
Try to locate the introductory sentence: While you skim through the labelled sentences, attempt to search for one that makes a fresh beginning. It mustn't be a sentence that's extending previous ideas.
Check for Conclusive Last Sentences: There are multiple options beginning with the introductory sentence. So you will need more than one clue. The last sentence in the paragraph is one that summarizes and has links to previous sentences.
Anticipate the order of the sentences: Knowing that going through each choice is cumbersome, you must clearly work towards generating some kind of order in your mind, before you look at the options. This tactic will help save the precious time.
See if there are any logical sequences among sentence pairs: fairly often a pair of sentences may be chronologically arranged because of clues in one of the sentences. Standard clues include relation to an individual or a thing. The first time such a reference is formed, a noun form is employed. The second reference could be a pronoun or a preposition. For example, look at these two sentences:
A. Its origins belong in Konark, where an enormous chariot of Lord Jagannath is created once a year to be taken out in a procession.
B. The juggernaut, though it seems very German in origin, is in reality quite Asian.
The "Its" in sentence A refers clearly to juggernaut. So, we are able to infer that sentence B precedes sentence A. Only using this information of the "its", we don't know if B comes immediately before A or whether one or two sentences separate A and B. But by looking closely, you may also see a standard word- "origin", which hunts at the very fact that the connection is of immediate precedence.
- Jumbled words or Para-Jumbles refer to a set of jumbled sentences in a paragraph which, when placed logically form a coherent and meaningful paragraph.
- To play word jumble we are required to rearrange the sentences in a very proper manner such that they link and form a coherent paragraph.
- While you skim through the labelled sentences, attempt to search for one that makes a fresh beginning.
- See if there are any logical sequences among sentence pairs: fairly often a pair of sentences may be chronologically arranged because of clues in one of the sentences.
Social media as an information dissemination tool is becoming quite popular lately due to its user-friendly features. Social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and more are giving people an opportunity to connect and reconnect with one another across distances. In other words, the entire world is at our fingertips all because of social media. The youth is particularly one of the most dominant users of social media. All this makes one wonder that something so powerful and with such an enormous reach cannot possibly be all good. Just as how there are two sides to a coin, there is always a bad side to any good thing. The topic if social media is a boon or a curse is up for debate. So, during this essay on Social Media, we'll see the benefits and drawbacks of social media.
Advantages of Social Media
When we investigate the positive aspect of social media, we discover numerous advantages. The most important being an excellent device for education. Everything someone needs regarding a particular topic is merely a click away. Learners, academic or just in general, can educate themselves on various topics using social media. Moreover, live lectures are now possible due to social media. Anyone can attend a lecture/seminar from anywhere in the world. Furthermore, as more and more people are distancing themselves from newspapers, they're counting on social media for news. You are always updated on the most recent happenings of the globe through it. A person becomes more socially conscious of the problems of the world. Additionally, it connects you with your loved ones and strengthens the bonds. Distance isn't a barrier anymore due to social media. For instance, you'll be able to easily communicate with your friends and relatives overseas.
Most importantly, it also provides an excellent platform for young budding artists to showcase their talent for free of charge. You can get great opportunities for employment through social media too. Another advantage definitely benefits companies who wish to push their brands. Social media has become a hub for advertising and offers you numerous opportunities for connecting with the customer.
Disadvantages of Social Media
Despite having such unique advantages, social media is taken into account to be one of the most harmful elements of society. If the utilization of social media isn't monitored, it can result in grave consequences. It is harmful because it invades your privacy like never before. The oversharing happening on social media makes children a target for predators and hackers. It also ends up in cyberbullying which affects any individual significantly. Thus, the sharing on social media especially by children must be monitored at all times. Next up is the addition of social media which is kind of common amongst the youth.
This addiction hampers with the educational performance of a student as they waste their time on social media rather than studying. Social media also creates communal rifts. Fake news is spread with the utilization of it, which poisons the mind of peace-loving citizens.
In short, surely social media has both advantages and drawbacks. But it all depends on the user at the end. The youth must particularly create a balance between their academic performances, physical activities, and social media. Excess use of anything is harmful and the same thing applies to social media. Therefore, we must strive to live a satisfying life with the correct balance.
- Social media as an information dissemination tool is becoming quite popular lately due to its user-friendly features.
- Social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and more are giving people an opportunity to connect and reconnect with one another across distances.
- Thanks to social media live lectures are now possible. Anyone can attend a lecture/seminar from anywhere in the world.
- Because of social media you are always updated on the most recent happenings of the globe through it and therefore a person becomes more socially conscious of the problems of the world.
- Social media can be harmful because it invades your privacy like never before.
- Social media addiction hampers with the educational performance of a student as they waste their time on social media rather than studying.
An interpersonal relationship refers to an association between two or more people that may range from fleeting to enduring. This association may be based on inference, love, solidarity, regular business interactions, or on various other forms of social commitment. Interpersonal relationships are formed within the context of social, cultural and other influences. The context of interpersonal relationships can be family or kinship relations, friendship, marriage, relations with associates, work, clubs, neighborhoods, and places of worship. They may be regulated by law, custom, or mutual agreement, and are the premise of social groups and society as a whole. A relationship is often viewed as a connection between individuals, like a romantic or intimate relationship, or a parent–child relationship. Individuals also can have relationships with groups of individuals, like the relation between a pastor and his congregation, an uncle and a family, or a mayor and a town. Finally, groups or perhaps nations may have relations with one another. When in a healthy relationship, happiness is shown and therefore the relationship is now a priority.
Interpersonal relationships are systems that are dynamic in nature that change continuously during their existence. Relationships have a beginning, a lifespan, and an end like any living organism. They grow and improve gradually, as people get to understand one another and become closer emotionally, or they gradually deteriorate as people alienate, progress with their lives, and form new relationships with others.
Interpersonal communication skills or soft skills are the skills one uses while communication with individuals or groups in their everyday lives. People with good interpersonal communication skills often tend to be more successful than people who lack them. Interpersonal communication skills are vital in all areas of one’s life. People with good interpersonal communication skills are able to work well with other people and are also good with social interactions.
Though they are more targeted towards communication, interpersonal skills also include understanding body language, active listening, using gestures to express thoughts and feelings, and also dealing with different attitudes. They also include the skills and attributes associated with emotional intelligence, or being able to understand and manage your own as well as others’ emotions.
Interpersonal skills are extensively useful in work environments, they help maintain good social relationships among colleagues and also help mitigate employer-employee affairs.
Some of the most common interpersonal skills are:
- Active listening
- Collaboration
- Problem-solving
- Conflict resolution
- Empathy
- Diplomacy
- Adaptability
- Leadership
- Mediation
- Patience
Improving Interpersonal Communication Skills
The development of interpersonal communication skills requires dedication and effort. The following are some of the ways in which one can improve their interpersonal communication skills:
- Clarity- Clarity is one of the most essential requirements of communication. While writing, it is necessary to write in good handwriting with proper grammar and sentence formation. While speaking one should use proper vocabulary and speak each word clearly and carefully along with proper inflections.
2. Active Listening- One should listen carefully what the speaker is saying in order to understand properly and provide feedback. One should be attentive while listening, ask open ended questions and should be able to summarize the information provided by the speaker.
3. Maintaining Eye-Contact- While conversing one should maintain eye contact with the speaker as this shows the speaker that the message is being received by the listener.
4. Non-Verbal Communication- One’s body language often speaks as loud as his words. While communication one should show one’s reactions and interests through their body language.
5. Avoid Interruptions- It is essential to let the speaker finish talking before conveying one’s own thoughts. Interrupting is not only rude but also can be disadvantageous as one may not totally grasp the meaning of the speaker. If an interruption is absolutely necessary, one must use polite words like “pardon me” or “excuse me” instead of cutting the speaker in the middle of their thought process.
6. Thinking before Speaking- It is said one must think twice before they speak. One must always consider the opinions and feelings of others before speaking their mind.
7. The Message- The message one wishes to convey must always be clear and concise, there should be no doubts in one’s mind while speaking. The central idea of the message should always be conveyed completely and indubitably.
Developing Interpersonal Skills
There are 5 basic steps to develop interpersonal skills:
- Always Be Self-aware
Self-awareness implies being aware of one’s own thoughts, feelings and emotions. This activity helps in gaining emotional intelligence which in turn helps in effective communication. Every individual is projecting subconscious messages throughout the day that might affect other people around them, therefore it is essential that one is mindful of their thoughts and only share what they want to.
2. Being Respectful and Empathetic Towards Others
Everyone is entitled to their own opinions no matter how different or abstract they may be. To be a good communicator one must always respect another’s opinion with no judgment or condemnation. Empathy is a quality every great thinker and communicator throughout history, if one cannot be empathetic towards others one cannot understand how they feel or what they think in any given situation, therefore it is necessary that one should be compassionate and empathetic towards others.
3. Actively Listening to others
Listening is probably the most underrated and overrated skill among the 4 basic communication skills. But much like the other skills it has to be honed and developed. Only when one listens clearly can one respond to a given message. It is easy to passively keep on hearing the speaker but it is difficult to actively listen as it requires total attention on the receiver’s part.
4. Avoiding Talking Over Others
While listening one tends to convey his thoughts as soon as he thinks of them without considering whether the speaker has finished speaking or not, this leads to being perceived as rude and hasty. To avoid this one must let the speaker finish first and then convey their thoughts as clearly as possible.
5. Saying “Yes” Before Saying “No”
It is essential to not outright reject new ideas and thoughts without listening to them or acting upon them. If one does not hear a topic that appeals to his own ideals or opinions, he tends to reject the new without even listening to it. This process inhabits one’s ability to expand one’s horizons and should not be continued.
- An interpersonal relationship refers to an association between two or more people that may range from fleeting to enduring. This association may be based on inference, love, solidarity, regular business interactions, or on various other forms of social commitment.
- Interpersonal relationships are systems that are dynamic in nature that change continuously during their existence.
- Interpersonal communication skills are the skills one uses while communication with individuals or groups in their everyday lives.
- Individuals with good interpersonal communication skills often tend to be more successful than people who lack them.
- Interpersonal skills also include understanding body language, active listening, using gestures to express thoughts and feelings, and also dealing with different attitudes along with verbal communication.
Interpersonal skills include: Active listening, Collaboration, Problem-solving, Conflict resolution, Empathy, Diplomacy, Adaptability, Leadership, Mediation, Patience.
6. Clarity is one of the most essential requirements of communication.
7. One should be attentive while listening, ask open ended questions and should be ab It is essential to let the speaker finish talking before conveying one’s own thoughts le to summarize the information provided by the speaker. Only when one listens clearly can one respond to a given message.
8. While listening one tends to convey his thoughts as soon as he thinks of them without considering whether the speaker has finished speaking or not, this leads to being perceived as rude and hasty.
References
- Oxford Guide to writing and speaking, John Seely, O.U.P
- A Communicative Grammar of English, Leech, G.N. and Jan Svartvik
- Better English Pronunciation, J.O O’ Corner, Cambridge.
- Effective Technical Communication, M.Asraf Rizvi, Tata McGraw Hill
- Technical Communication Today, Bovea et al. Pearson.
- Practical English Usage. Michael Swan. OUP. 1995.
- Remedial English Grammar. F.T. Wood. Macmillan.2007
- Communication Skills. Sanjay Kumar and Pushp Lata. Oxford University Press. 2011.
- Exercises in Spoken English. Parts. I-III. CIEFL, Hyderabad. Oxford University Press