Free BEGS 183 Solved Assignment | July 2024-Jan 2025 | WRITING AND STUDY SKILLS | IGNOU

Question Details

Aspect

Details

Programme Title

Bachelor of Arts (English Major) BAFEG

Course Code

BEGS 183

Course Title

WRITING AND STUDY SKILLS

Assignment Code

BEGS 183

University

Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU)

Type

Free IGNOU Solved Assignment 

Language

English

Session

July 2024 – January 2025

Submission Date

31st March for July session, 30th September for January session

BEGS-183 Solved Assignment

Write short notes on the following:
  1. How are new words built in English through affixation and compounding? Give suitable examples.
  2. Briefly describe the process approach to writing.
  3. What are the three major types of study skills? How do they help us to become better learners?
  4. What aspects should be kept in mind while writing the introductory paragraph of a composition?
  5. Briefly explain how a paraphrase, a precis and a summary differ from each other?
SECTION B
II. Answer the following in around 150 words each:
  1. "While writing, we need to develop the skills of analysing as well as synthesizing." Explain.
  2. What is expository writing? Describe with examples, the techniques used to write expository texts
  3. Explain with examples, how flowcharts and tree diagrams can be used to present information clearly.
  4. How is the structure of a formal letter different from that of an informal letter? Give sample structures of both.
SECTION C
III. Write a paragraph of about 150 words on the topic given below.
Underline the topic sentence after writing the paragraph.
"Water Conservation: A Challenge for India in the Twenty first Century."
IV. Write a well – developed composition on the topic given below:
"Social Media Usage: Advantages and Disadvantages."
Your composition should have a clear introduction, body and conclusion.

Expert Answer:

Question:-1

How are new words built in English through affixation and compounding? Give suitable examples.

Answer:

Building New Words in English Through Affixation and Compounding
English word formation often involves the processes of affixation and compounding. These methods help expand the vocabulary by creating new words from existing ones.

1. Affixation

Affixation involves adding prefixes or suffixes to a base word to form new words.
Prefixes:
  • Definition: Prefixes are added to the beginning of a word and can alter its meaning.
  • Examples:
    • Un-: Adding "un-" to "happy" forms "unhappy," indicating the opposite of happiness.
    • Re-: Adding "re-" to "write" forms "rewrite," meaning to write again.
Suffixes:
  • Definition: Suffixes are added to the end of a word and can change its grammatical function or meaning.
  • Examples:
    • -ly: Adding "-ly" to "quick" forms "quickly," changing an adjective into an adverb.
    • -ness: Adding "-ness" to "happy" forms "happiness," changing an adjective into a noun that refers to a state or quality.

2. Compounding

Compounding involves combining two or more words to create a new word with a distinct meaning.
Types of Compounds:
  • Closed Compounds: The words are joined together without spaces.
    • Examples:
      • Toothbrush: Combining "tooth" and "brush" to refer to a tool used for cleaning teeth.
      • Sunflower: Combining "sun" and "flower" to describe a type of flower that resembles the sun.
  • Hyphenated Compounds: The words are joined by hyphens.
    • Examples:
      • Mother-in-law: Combining "mother," "in," and "law" to describe the mother of one’s spouse.
      • Well-being: Combining "well" and "being" to refer to a state of health and happiness.
  • Open Compounds: The words are used together but remain separate.
    • Examples:
      • Post office: Combining "post" and "office" to refer to a place where mail is sent and received.
      • High school: Combining "high" and "school" to describe a type of educational institution.

Conclusion

Affixation and compounding are fundamental processes in English word formation. Affixation modifies base words with prefixes and suffixes, while compounding creates new words by combining existing ones. These methods enrich the language and provide a flexible way to expand vocabulary and express new concepts.

Question:-2

Briefly describe the process approach to writing.

Answer:

The Process Approach to Writing
The process approach to writing is a method that focuses on the various stages involved in producing a written text. It emphasizes the recursive nature of writing, allowing for multiple drafts and revisions. This approach aims to improve writing by breaking down the task into manageable steps and fostering a more reflective and iterative process.

Key Stages of the Process Approach

  1. Prewriting:
    • Description: This initial stage involves planning and brainstorming ideas before starting the actual writing. It includes activities like researching, outlining, and organizing thoughts.
    • Techniques: Freewriting, clustering, and making lists are common techniques used during this phase to generate ideas and structure them logically.
  2. Drafting:
    • Description: In this stage, writers begin to put their ideas into a coherent structure. The focus is on getting ideas down on paper without worrying too much about perfection.
    • Objective: The goal is to create a rough draft that captures the main ideas and structure of the text. Multiple drafts are often produced during this phase.
  3. Revising:
    • Description: Revising involves reviewing and making substantial changes to improve the content, structure, and clarity of the draft. It includes reorganizing sections, refining arguments, and ensuring that ideas flow logically.
    • Techniques: Writers might seek feedback from others, rework paragraphs, and refine their thesis to enhance the overall quality of the text.
  4. Editing:
    • Description: Editing focuses on polishing the text by correcting grammatical errors, punctuation, spelling mistakes, and stylistic inconsistencies.
    • Objective: This stage ensures that the text is clear, accurate, and adheres to the required standards of language and format.
  5. Publishing:
    • Description: The final stage involves preparing the text for submission or presentation. This includes formatting the document according to guidelines and finalizing any layout or design elements.
    • Objective: The text is now ready to be shared with its intended audience.

Conclusion

The process approach to writing emphasizes a structured yet flexible method of developing a text through prewriting, drafting, revising, editing, and publishing. By focusing on each stage individually and allowing for multiple revisions, this approach aims to enhance the quality of writing and accommodate the iterative nature of the writing process.

Question:-3

What are the three major types of study skills? How do they help us to become better learners?

Answer:

Three Major Types of Study Skills and Their Impact on Learning
Study skills are essential techniques and strategies that help individuals effectively manage their learning process. The three major types of study skills are organizational skills, time management skills, and active learning strategies. Each plays a crucial role in improving learning efficiency and academic performance.

1. Organizational Skills

Description:
Organizational skills involve structuring and managing study materials and tasks. This includes creating effective study environments, organizing notes, and planning assignments.
Key Techniques:
  • Note-Taking: Using methods such as the Cornell system or outlining to systematically record and review information.
  • Using Study Aids: Creating flashcards, summaries, and mind maps to reinforce learning.
  • Maintaining a Study Schedule: Keeping track of deadlines, exams, and study sessions to stay on top of academic responsibilities.
Benefits:
  • Enhanced Clarity: Proper organization of materials helps in easier retrieval and review of information.
  • Improved Efficiency: Streamlined notes and materials lead to more effective study sessions.
  • Reduced Stress: An organized approach reduces last-minute cramming and anxiety about missing deadlines.

2. Time Management Skills

Description:
Time management skills involve planning and allocating time effectively to balance study, work, and personal life. This includes setting priorities and avoiding procrastination.
Key Techniques:
  • Creating a Study Plan: Developing a schedule that allocates specific times for studying, assignments, and revisions.
  • Using Time Management Tools: Employing calendars, planners, or digital apps to keep track of tasks and deadlines.
  • Implementing the Pomodoro Technique: Working in focused intervals with regular breaks to maintain productivity.
Benefits:
  • Increased Productivity: Effective time management helps in covering more material in less time.
  • Better Balance: Balancing study with other activities reduces burnout and maintains overall well-being.
  • Enhanced Focus: Structured time allocations minimize distractions and improve concentration.

3. Active Learning Strategies

Description:
Active learning strategies involve engaging with the material through various interactive methods. This approach helps deepen understanding and retention of information.
Key Techniques:
  • Summarization: Writing brief summaries of key concepts to reinforce learning.
  • Self-Testing: Quizzing oneself or using practice tests to assess understanding and identify areas needing improvement.
  • Teaching Others: Explaining concepts to peers or using the Feynman Technique to clarify understanding.
Benefits:
  • Improved Retention: Actively engaging with material helps in better information retention and comprehension.
  • Enhanced Critical Thinking: Active learning fosters deeper analysis and application of knowledge.
  • Immediate Feedback: Techniques like self-testing provide quick insights into one’s grasp of the subject, allowing for timely adjustments.

Conclusion

Organizational skills, time management skills, and active learning strategies are fundamental study skills that contribute significantly to becoming a better learner. By enhancing organization, effectively managing time, and engaging actively with study material, individuals can improve their academic performance and develop more effective learning habits.

Question:-4

What aspects should be kept in mind while writing the introductory paragraph of a composition?

Answer:

Aspects to Consider When Writing the Introductory Paragraph of a Composition
The introductory paragraph of a composition sets the stage for the entire piece and plays a crucial role in engaging the reader and providing direction. To craft an effective introduction, consider the following aspects:

1. Hook or Attention-Grabber

Description:
A hook is a compelling opening sentence or statement designed to capture the reader’s interest. It should be engaging and relevant to the topic.
Examples:
  • Anecdote: Sharing a brief, relevant story that relates to the main theme.
  • Quote: Using a thought-provoking quote to introduce the topic.
  • Question: Posing a question that piques curiosity and encourages the reader to think.

2. Background Information

Description:
Providing context helps the reader understand the topic and why it is important. This section offers relevant background information or defines key terms related to the subject matter.
Examples:
  • Context: Explaining the historical, cultural, or situational background of the topic.
  • Definitions: Clarifying any complex or specialized terms that will be used in the composition.

3. Thesis Statement

Description:
The thesis statement presents the central argument or main point of the composition. It should be clear, concise, and specific, outlining what the writer intends to discuss or prove.
Examples:
  • Direct Thesis: Clearly stating the main argument or purpose of the composition.
  • Complex Thesis: Presenting a nuanced argument that will be explored in detail throughout the essay.

4. Purpose and Scope

Description:
The introduction should convey the purpose of the composition and outline the scope of the discussion. It provides the reader with a roadmap of what to expect in the following paragraphs.
Examples:
  • Purpose: Explaining why the topic is relevant and what the writer aims to achieve.
  • Scope: Indicating the specific aspects of the topic that will be covered, helping the reader understand the focus of the composition.

5. Tone and Style

Description:
The tone and style of the introduction should align with the overall purpose and audience of the composition. It sets the mood and determines the level of formality or informality.
Examples:
  • Formal Tone: Using sophisticated language and a serious tone for academic or professional compositions.
  • Informal Tone: Employing a conversational style for more casual or personal writing.

Conclusion

In writing the introductory paragraph of a composition, it is essential to craft an engaging hook, provide necessary background information, present a clear thesis statement, outline the purpose and scope, and align the tone and style with the intended audience and purpose. By addressing these aspects, the introduction effectively sets up the composition and captures the reader’s interest, paving the way for a coherent and impactful essay.

Question:-5

Briefly explain how a paraphrase, a precis and a summary differ from each other?

Answer:

Differences Between Paraphrase, Precis, and Summary
Paraphrasing, précis writing, and summarizing are distinct techniques used to convey information in different ways. Each serves a specific purpose and involves unique approaches to condensing or rephrasing content.

1. Paraphrase

Definition:
Paraphrasing involves rewording a specific passage or statement while retaining the original meaning. The goal is to present the same idea in a different way, often to clarify or simplify the text.
Characteristics:
  • Length: Paraphrases are usually about the same length as the original text.
  • Purpose: Used to clarify or simplify a passage without changing its meaning. It is often employed in academic writing to demonstrate understanding or to integrate sources.
  • Example: Original: "The quick brown fox jumps over the lazy dog."
    Paraphrase: "A speedy, brown fox leaps over a sluggish dog."

2. Precis

Definition:
A précis is a concise summary of a text, capturing its essential points and main arguments while omitting extraneous details. It distills the core message into a brief form.
Characteristics:
  • Length: A précis is significantly shorter than the original text, typically around one-third of its length.
  • Purpose: To provide a succinct overview of the main ideas and structure of the original text. It is used to convey the gist of the content without detailed explanations.
  • Example: Original: "The quick brown fox jumps over the lazy dog. It does so with great agility and speed, demonstrating its nimbleness. The dog, on the other hand, remains inactive and indifferent."
    Précis: "A nimble fox leaps over a passive dog, highlighting its agility."

3. Summary

Definition:
A summary is a brief overview of the main points and essential elements of a text, capturing the key ideas and overall argument. It provides a general understanding of the content without detailing every point.
Characteristics:
  • Length: A summary is shorter than the original text, usually focusing on the main ideas and leaving out less critical details.
  • Purpose: To provide an overall understanding of the text’s content. Summaries are often used to give readers a quick overview of the material.
  • Example: Original: "The quick brown fox jumps over the lazy dog. It does so with great agility and speed, demonstrating its nimbleness. The dog, on the other hand, remains inactive and indifferent. The fox’s action contrasts sharply with the dog’s passivity."
    Summary: "The text describes a fox’s agility as it leaps over an indifferent dog, contrasting the fox’s speed with the dog’s inactivity."

Conclusion

In summary, paraphrasing involves rewording specific passages to clarify or simplify, précis entails a condensed version focusing on the main arguments of a text, and summarizing provides an overall overview of the essential points. Each technique serves to convey information differently based on the required depth and detail.

Question:-6

"While writing, we need to develop the skills of analysing as well as synthesizing." Explain.

Answer:

Developing Skills of Analyzing and Synthesizing in Writing
When writing, developing skills in analyzing and synthesizing is crucial for producing clear, coherent, and insightful content.
Analyzing involves breaking down information into its component parts to understand its structure and meaning. This skill helps writers critically evaluate and interpret sources, arguments, and data. For example, when writing an essay, analyzing involves examining each argument or piece of evidence to determine its validity, relevance, and contribution to the overall thesis. Effective analysis ensures that each part of the text is scrutinized for accuracy and logical coherence.
Synthesizing, on the other hand, involves combining different pieces of information to form a unified whole. This skill is essential for integrating various sources, ideas, or perspectives into a cohesive argument or narrative. For instance, when writing a research paper, synthesizing involves blending findings from multiple studies to draw broader conclusions or identify new insights. This helps in presenting a well-rounded view of the topic, showing how different elements relate and contribute to the overarching argument.
Together, analyzing and synthesizing enable writers to create well-structured and persuasive content. Analysis allows for a deeper understanding of the material, while synthesis helps in presenting a comprehensive and integrated perspective. Mastery of both skills leads to more effective communication, enhanced critical thinking, and a stronger ability to engage with complex topics.

Question:-7

What is expository writing? Describe with examples, the techniques used to write expository texts.

Answer:

Expository Writing: Definition and Techniques
Expository writing is a genre of writing that aims to inform, explain, or describe a topic in a clear and straightforward manner. Unlike persuasive or narrative writing, which seeks to convince or entertain, expository writing focuses on presenting factual information and elucidating concepts without bias or personal opinion.
Characteristics:
  • Clarity: The primary goal is to convey information clearly and logically.
  • Objectivity: It relies on factual data and evidence rather than personal views or emotions.
Techniques Used in Expository Writing:
  1. Definition:
    • Description: Explaining key terms or concepts to ensure readers understand the topic.
    • Example: In an essay about climate change, defining terms like "greenhouse gases" and "global warming" helps clarify the discussion.
  2. Classification:
    • Description: Organizing information into categories or types to make it easier to understand.
    • Example: An article on different types of renewable energy sources might classify them into solar, wind, and hydro energy, detailing each category’s characteristics.
  3. Comparison and Contrast:
    • Description: Highlighting similarities and differences between two or more items to clarify their relative advantages or disadvantages.
    • Example: A guide comparing electric cars and gasoline cars could discuss their environmental impact, cost, and performance.
  4. Cause and Effect:
    • Description: Exploring the reasons behind a phenomenon and its consequences.
    • Example: An explanation of how deforestation leads to loss of biodiversity can detail the causes of deforestation and its effects on ecosystems.
  5. Process Analysis:
    • Description: Describing the steps involved in a process or procedure.
    • Example: A manual on how to bake a cake provides a step-by-step guide from gathering ingredients to the final baking process.
Conclusion:
Expository writing serves to educate and inform by presenting information clearly and logically. Techniques such as definition, classification, comparison, cause and effect, and process analysis are essential for structuring and delivering content effectively.

Question:-8

Explain with examples, how flowcharts and tree diagrams can be used to present information clearly.

Answer:

Using Flowcharts and Tree Diagrams to Present Information Clearly
Flowcharts and tree diagrams are visual tools that help organize and present information in a clear, structured manner. They simplify complex processes and relationships, making it easier to understand and communicate information.
Flowcharts:
  • Description: Flowcharts use symbols and arrows to represent the sequence of steps in a process or system. They show how different components interact and the flow of operations from start to finish.
  • Example: In a flowchart for a customer service process, boxes might represent steps such as "Receive Inquiry," "Assess Issue," "Resolve Problem," and "Follow Up." Arrows indicate the direction of the process, and decision points (e.g., "Is the issue resolved?") guide the flow based on different outcomes.
Tree Diagrams:
  • Description: Tree diagrams illustrate hierarchical relationships and branching structures. They start from a central node and split into multiple branches, representing various categories or subcategories.
  • Example: A tree diagram for organizing a company’s departments might start with a central node labeled "Company." Branches could represent main divisions like "Sales," "Marketing," and "Human Resources." Each division could further branch into specific teams or roles, such as "Regional Sales" and "Customer Support" under "Sales."
Benefits:
  • Flowcharts: Provide a step-by-step visual representation of processes, helping to identify bottlenecks, decision points, and overall workflow.
  • Tree Diagrams: Clarify hierarchical relationships and breakdown structures, making it easier to understand complex categorizations and connections.
Conclusion:
Both flowcharts and tree diagrams are effective tools for presenting information clearly. Flowcharts map out processes and decision paths, while tree diagrams depict hierarchical and categorical relationships, aiding in the visualization and comprehension of complex information.

Question:-9

How is the structure of a formal letter different from that of an informal letter? Give sample structures of both.

Answer:

Differences Between Formal and Informal Letter Structures
Formal Letters and informal letters serve different purposes and thus have distinct structures. Understanding these differences helps in crafting letters appropriate for various contexts.
Formal Letter Structure:
  1. Sender’s Address: Located at the top left corner, including the sender’s full address.
    • Example: 123 Maple Street, Springfield, IL 62704
  2. Date: Placed below the sender’s address.
    • Example: August 5, 2024
  3. Recipient’s Address: Positioned below the date, including the recipient’s full address.
    • Example: Ms. Jane Doe, HR Manager, ABC Corp, 456 Elm Street, Springfield, IL 62705
  4. Salutation: Uses formal greetings, addressing the recipient by title and last name.
    • Example: Dear Ms. Doe,
  5. Body: Contains a structured message with an introduction, main content, and conclusion.
  6. Closing: A formal sign-off, such as "Sincerely" or "Yours faithfully," followed by a comma.
    • Example: Sincerely,
  7. Signature: The sender’s handwritten signature (if printed) or digital signature.
  8. Typed Name: Typed full name below the signature.
    • Example: John Smith
Informal Letter Structure:
  1. Sender’s Address: Optional, often included only if the sender’s address is not already known to the recipient.
    • Example: (optional) 123 Maple Street, Springfield
  2. Date: Positioned below the sender’s address, if included.
    • Example: August 5, 2024
  3. Salutation: Uses a casual greeting, addressing the recipient by first name or a term of endearment.
    • Example: Dear Jane,
  4. Body: Written in a conversational tone, with no strict structure. It often includes personal anecdotes, updates, or informal language.
  5. Closing: Informal sign-off, such as "Best wishes," "Love," or "Cheers."
    • Example: Best wishes,
  6. Signature: The sender’s name, usually typed or handwritten.
Conclusion:
Formal letters adhere to a structured format with specific sections and a professional tone, while informal letters have a more relaxed structure and personal style. Knowing these distinctions helps in tailoring communication appropriately for different contexts.

Question:-10

Write a paragraph of about 150 words on the topic given below.
Underline the topic sentence after writing the paragraph.
"Water Conservation: A Challenge for India in the Twenty first Century."

Answer:

Water Conservation: A Challenge for India in the Twenty-First Century
Water conservation stands as a significant challenge for India in the twenty-first century due to its growing population, rapid industrialization, and the impacts of climate change. India faces severe water scarcity issues, with over 600 million people experiencing high to extreme water stress. The country’s dependence on monsoon rains for its water supply makes it vulnerable to erratic weather patterns, which exacerbate the problem. Urbanization and agricultural expansion further strain existing water resources, leading to the over-extraction of groundwater and pollution of surface water bodies. In addition, inadequate infrastructure for water storage and distribution contributes to the inefficient use of available resources. Addressing this challenge requires a multifaceted approach, including the implementation of efficient water management practices, promotion of water-saving technologies, and public awareness campaigns about the importance of conservation. Policies aimed at reducing water wastage, enhancing rainwater harvesting, and restoring natural water bodies are crucial. Effective water conservation strategies will not only ensure the sustainability of India’s water resources but also improve the quality of life for its citizens by mitigating the adverse effects of water scarcity.

Question:-11

Write a well-developed composition on the topic given below:
"Social Media Usage: Advantages and Disadvantages."
Your composition should have a clear introduction, body and conclusion.

Answer:

Social Media Usage: Advantages and Disadvantages
In the digital age, social media has become a powerful tool that influences various aspects of daily life. Platforms like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn have revolutionized the way we communicate, share information, and interact with the world. However, while social media offers numerous advantages, it also presents several disadvantages that can impact users’ lives in significant ways.
Advantages of Social Media
One of the primary benefits of social media is its ability to connect people across the globe. Through platforms like Facebook and Instagram, individuals can maintain relationships with family and friends, regardless of geographical distance. Social media also serves as a valuable tool for networking and professional development. Platforms such as LinkedIn enable users to connect with industry professionals, explore job opportunities, and build their careers. Additionally, social media is a powerful tool for information dissemination and awareness. News outlets, educational institutions, and non-profit organizations use social media to spread important information quickly and efficiently, raising awareness on various social and global issues.
Disadvantages of Social Media
Despite its advantages, social media has notable drawbacks. One significant disadvantage is the impact on mental health. Excessive use of social media has been linked to issues such as anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem, as individuals often compare themselves to others and feel pressured to present an idealized version of their lives. Another concern is the spread of misinformation. Social media platforms can quickly disseminate false information, leading to confusion and potentially harmful consequences. Furthermore, privacy issues are prevalent, as personal information shared on social media can be exploited by malicious actors or lead to identity theft. Additionally, the addictive nature of social media can lead to reduced productivity and hinder real-life interactions, as users may spend excessive amounts of time online at the expense of face-to-face relationships.
Conclusion
In summary, while social media provides significant advantages such as enhanced connectivity, professional networking, and information sharing, it also poses considerable disadvantages, including negative effects on mental health, the spread of misinformation, and privacy concerns. Balancing the use of social media with mindful practices and awareness of its potential pitfalls is crucial. By leveraging the benefits of social media while mitigating its risks, users can navigate this digital landscape more effectively and ensure that it serves as a positive and constructive tool in their lives.

Search Free Solved Assignment

Just Type atleast 3 letters of your Paper Code

Scroll to Top
Scroll to Top