Jammu University Non CBCS
General English Previous Year Question Paper
1st Semester
AA-101
UNIT-I: PROSE
1. R. K. Narayan: “Toasted English”
In this humorous yet thought-provoking essay, R.K. Narayan presents a delightful account of his personal experience with learning English. Narayan discusses the peculiarities of the English language, emphasizing the absurdities that often arise when non-native speakers try to master it. His wit and satire offer a humorous critique of the English education system and its often confusing rules. This essay is not just a reflection on language, but also a commentary on cultural identity and the challenges that come with learning a foreign language.
2. Charles Lamb: “Dream Children: A Reverie”
In this poignant and reflective essay, Charles Lamb explores the themes of love, loss, and the passage of time. Through the imagined conversation with his children, Lamb reflects on his own childhood, the death of his brother, and the unfulfilled hopes of his life. "Dream Children" is a meditation on the complexities of human emotions, the inevitability of death, and the longing for a more perfect life. Lamb’s gentle tone and emotional depth make this essay a timeless piece of literature.
3. Shashi Tharoor: “Freedom of the Press”
In this essay, Shashi Tharoor delves into the critical role that the press plays in a democratic society. He defends the freedom of the press as an essential element for safeguarding democracy and ensuring accountability. Tharoor also addresses the challenges faced by journalists in India, including censorship, political pressure, and the rise of fake news. His writing is sharp and eloquent, urging readers to recognize the importance of independent journalism in upholding truth and transparency.
4. Abdul Kalam: “Wings of Fire”
This autobiographical essay by Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam recounts his childhood in Rameswaram, his early education, and his eventual rise to become one of India's most respected scientists and the President of India. Through this essay, Dr. Kalam shares his vision, dreams, and the power of perseverance. "Wings of Fire" is an inspiring narrative of ambition, hard work, and the unyielding pursuit of knowledge, making it a motivational read for students and young professionals alike.
UNIT-II: POETRY
1. Rabindranath Tagore: “Leave This Chanting”
In this profound poem, Rabindranath Tagore urges humanity to move beyond superficial rituals and empty chants and seek a deeper connection with life and the divine. The poem emphasizes that true devotion and spirituality are found not in outward actions, but in the sincerity of the heart. Tagore’s lyrical language and philosophical reflections invite readers to look inward and embrace the real essence of spirituality, making it a timeless meditation on the nature of faith.
2. Rudyard Kipling: “If”
Rudyard Kipling’s "If" is one of the most celebrated poems in English literature. It offers a series of wise and inspirational guidelines for personal conduct and resilience. The poem encourages readers to remain calm in the face of adversity, to be determined yet humble, and to never lose sight of their goals, even when faced with failure. Kipling's message is one of emotional strength, self-discipline, and perseverance, making "If" an enduring piece of literary wisdom.
3. William Wordsworth: “The World is Too Much With Us”
In this Romantic poem, Wordsworth laments humanity's disconnection from nature. He argues that modern life, with its obsession for material progress, has led to the neglect of the natural world and the spiritual benefits it offers. The poem is a call to return to nature and reconnect with the purity and beauty of the earth. Wordsworth’s vivid imagery and his expression of longing for a simpler, more meaningful life continue to resonate with readers.
4. Karan Singh: “The Adventurer”
Karan Singh’s poem "The Adventurer" is a celebration of human curiosity, courage, and the pursuit of new horizons. The poem reflects on the journey of life as an adventure that requires daring, resilience, and a willingness to embrace uncertainty. It inspires readers to step out of their comfort zones and explore the world with enthusiasm and a sense of wonder. Singh’s dynamic use of language and rhythm makes this poem both engaging and thought-provoking.
UNIT-III: SHORT STORIES
1. O'Henry: “The Last Leaf”
"The Last Leaf" by O'Henry is a short story about hope, sacrifice, and the power of love. Set in Greenwich Village, New York, it tells the story of a young woman named Sue, who is struggling with an illness and believes that when the last leaf falls from a vine outside her window, she will die. However, an elderly artist named Behrman, who lives in the same building, sacrifices his life to paint the last leaf on the wall, giving the woman hope to live. The story ends with a twist, typical of O'Henry’s style, where the true nature of Behrman’s sacrifice is revealed.
2. Munshi Premchand: “The Child”
"The Child" by Munshi Premchand highlights the innocence and vulnerability of children, juxtaposed with the harshness of societal neglect. The story revolves around a poor child who, despite his suffering, expresses love and compassion. Premchand’s narrative critiques social injustice and the exploitation of the underprivileged, focusing on the theme of child labor and the lack of care for the poor in society. The story carries a poignant message about the importance of compassion and the need for social reform.
3. Chhatrapal: “Chetta” (Memory)
"Chetta" is a short story by Chhatrapal that revolves around the theme of memory and its connection to personal identity. The story portrays the impact of past experiences on an individual’s present life, highlighting how memories, both good and bad, shape who we are. Through vivid storytelling, the author explores the complexities of memory, nostalgia, and the emotional weight that certain memories carry. "Chetta" is a reflection on how the past never truly leaves us, but instead continues to influence our lives.
UNIT-IV: READING, WRITING, AND SPEAKING SKILLS
1. Comprehension of Unseen Passage
In exams, reading comprehension assesses the student’s ability to understand, interpret, and analyze a given passage. The key to mastering this skill is to read the passage carefully, identify the main ideas, and focus on important details. Questions often ask for the tone, themes, or specific information from the text, so practicing these types of exercises will improve both speed and accuracy.
2. Consonant and Vowel Sounds
Consonant and vowel sounds are crucial components of English pronunciation. Consonant sounds, such as 'p,' 't,' 'k,' or 's,' require some obstruction of airflow, while vowel sounds, like 'a,' 'e,' 'i,' 'o,' and 'u,' are produced with an open vocal tract. Understanding the articulation of these sounds is essential for clear and accurate speech. Practice with minimal pairs (e.g., 'bit' vs. 'beat') can help learners differentiate between similar sounds and improve their pronunciation.
UNIT-V: APPLIED GRAMMAR
1. Subject-Verb Agreement (Concord)
Subject-verb agreement refers to the grammatical rule that a subject and its corresponding verb must match in number (singular/plural). For example:
- Singular: The dog runs.
- Plural: The dogs run. Understanding the subject and the verb’s role in the sentence helps ensure that your writing is grammatically correct. Common issues occur with collective nouns, indefinite pronouns, and complex sentence structures, so it's essential to practice with various sentence types.
2. Antonym & Synonym
Antonyms are words with opposite meanings (e.g., hot/cold), while synonyms are words with similar meanings (e.g., happy/joyful). Expanding your vocabulary through the study of antonyms and synonyms improves both writing and speaking skills. It helps avoid repetition, allows for more precise expression, and enriches language use.